Magda Reyes is honored to join Temple B’nai Israel as the incoming rabbinical student. She is currently studying at Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC–JIR) as part of the inaugural cohort of the new Virtual Rabbinical Program.
Magda began her professional life in New York City as an economist before discovering her passion for Judaism and Jewish education while volunteering at a local synagogue. She went on to earn a Master’s degree in Jewish Religion from HUC–JIR and spent 23 years as a Director of Congregational Learning, most recently at Monmouth Reform Temple. She also received a Union for Reform Judaism fellowship through the inaugural JewV’Nation cohort, focusing on reducing barriers to Jewish entry for marginalized groups. After beginning rabbinical studies at the Academy for Jewish Religion, she ultimately returned to HUC–JIR to pursue ordination. Magda recently retired from her congregational role to devote herself to full-time study, spend more time with family, and engage fully with the Temple B’nai Israel community.
Magda lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, Steve, and their dog, Charlie, and delights in visiting their three grown children and families on the East Coast. Outside her studies, she enjoys traveling with her husband, making music with her band, and running agility courses with Charlie. She looks forward to joining the community and sharing the next chapter of their Jewish journey together.
