Who We Are
Nestled in the heart of the Columbus Jewish community, Torat Emet is a Modern Orthodox Congregation striving to provide a joyous and open environment for Jews of all backgrounds to worship, learn, celebrate, and grow together. Our congregation's warmth emanates from our care and concern for all people, and from our devotion to God, the Torah, the Jewish people and the State of Israel.
We are fortunate to provide top-quality Jewsh programming around the year thanks to our talented staff and a host of dedicated community volunteers.
Now, as always, Congregation Torat Emet is your home.
Our Leaders
Rav Howard Zack, Rabbi
Rabbi Howard Zack has been the Spirital Leader of Congregation Torat Emet since its inception in September, 2001. His passion for people and community and his keen insight into communal endeavors have made him a vital part of the Columbus Jewish landscape and have endeared him into the hearts of all those who know him.
Monica Calabrese, President
Monica has served Torat Emet as a thoughtful, patient, active and adept leader. Her wisdom has helped work through many complicated community issues and her enthusiasm for the shul is second to none. We are fortunate that Monica has shared her talents and commitment with Torat Emet through the years.
Liz Kalef, MSW, Executive Director
Liz has been a dedicated member of the Torat Emet staff since the shul's inception. Her talents and skills in administration, organization, and her keen ability to work with people have made her invaluable to our shul family. Liz brings her passion for the Jewish community with her to work every day.
Rabbi Ari Neuman, Assistant Rabbi
Rabbi Neuman comes to Columbus from University of Maralynd Hillel, where he and his wife Shira served as the Jewish Learning on Campus couple for the OU. Rabbi Neuman brings many talents to his position at Torat Emet, including his easiness around people and his mad gaming skills.
Rabbi Joel Epstein, Ritual Director
Rabbi Epstein is a patient and caring teacher and mentor. On any given day in the synagogue, you can find him teaching a Bar Mitzvah student, working with someone to prepare to chant a haftorah, teaching Talmud or organizing daily minyan. Torat Emet is fortunate to have such a wonderful caring person as part of the team.