Welcome Cantor Elise Barber, Director of Spiritual Life, Multifaith Chaplain

For Cantor Elise Barber, it was an easy decision to transition from being a professional actor to being a cantor. Elise, who worked as an actor and singer when she was a child until well in her 20’s, always enjoyed talking to people. “I loved doing theatre,” admits Elsie, “but I realized that I wanted to help people in some way. I like hearing the residents’ stories and guiding them and their families through challenging times. There is so much love and passion involved in this work!”

Elise started at JGS Lifecare in February and quickly became an integral part of the organization. “I am so moved by the Life Enrichment team and their love, joy, and dedication in their work,” said Elise. “They are incredibly creative and passionate. I truly enjoy the team and especially like working with Chaplain Sarah Malzone.” Added Barber, “It’s also been wonderful getting to know the residents. I really love that aspect of my job.”

Elise received a B.A. in Theatre from American University, attended a year course at Pardes in Jerusalem, completed the Ulpan (Hebrew Intensive) program at Columbia University and holds a TESOL certificate from the School for International Training. Elise was ordained as a cantor from Hebrew College. Also earning a M.A. in Judaic Studies. She’s been at Temple Beth El in Springfield since 2011 and is currently a rabbinical student at the Academy for Jewish Religion.

Additionally, Elise has performed in concerts at many synagogues including at Sinai Temple in Springfield, MA and Temple Israel in Boston. She has been a featured soloist with the Springfield Symphony for the past five years as well as a volunteer teacher with a local interfaith clergy group.

Growing up in Oak Ridge and Knoxville, Tennessee, Elise still visits her family’s cabin in the Smoky Mountains. “It my favorite place in the world,” said Elise. She met her husband, Rabbi Ben Weiner, in Jerusalem when he was in his fourth year of rabbinical school and Elise was in her first year of cantorial school. The rest, as they say, is history.

Today, the couple, along with son Efraim (12) daughter Batya (5) reside on a small homestead in Deerfield. “We have goats, chickens, and more produce than anyone would know what to do with!” Both children attend Lander Grinspoon Academy, a Jewish day school in Northampton.

When asked about the most gratifying aspect of being a cantor, Elise was quick to respond. “I truly love helping people connect with their Judaism, their community, and themselves. “I have always found the pastoral parts of my position as a cantor most engaging. As a cantor, I help people through lifecycle rituals including birth, coming of age, weddings, and death. I also enjoy visiting people in hospitals, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes.”

Elise’s commitment to her community is evident in all aspects of her life. Outside of her professional duties, she often volunteers at local charities and participates in community events. Her dedication to helping others extends beyond her immediate circle, as she actively seeks opportunities to make a positive impact on a larger scale. Elise’s warm and compassionate nature makes her a beloved figure among colleagues, friends, and family alike. Her enthusiasm for her work and her genuine care for others truly set her apart as an inspiring role model.

In her spare time, Elise enjoys spending time with her children, exploring nature, reading, exercising and all things musical. At the moment, she and her husband are busy planning Efraim’s bar mitzvah, which will be held this November.

Elise is excited about her role at JGS Lifecare. “I look forward to working with people of all faiths, leading Jewish services, and serving as a Jewish resource,” remarks Elise. “Most of all, Elise feels honored working with the residents. “I love hearing people’s stories and helping them and their families through challenging times. It is my passion.”