Rabbi Glenn Ettman

Read Welcome Letter

Rabbi Glenn Ettman brings heart, humanity and hope to everything he does. As the sole rabbi of Congregation Or Ami in Lafayette Hill, PA, he leads a dynamic multi-generational congregation described best as “a family of friends.” With a deep belief in the power of sacred relationships, Rabbi Ettman sees Judaism as a living tradition that helps people make sense of their lives, from moments of profound joy to seasons of struggle and change. His goal is to help bring a Jewish connection and meaning to life. 
 
Ordained by Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion in 2006, Rabbi Ettman’s rabbinate is shaped by his love of Torah, Liturgy and storytelling. He has a background in theater and performance studies. A graduate of Brandeis University with a Bachelor of Arts in theater and Judaic studies, and a Master’s Degree from the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University, Rabbi Ettman strives to connect our ancient Jewish tradition with contemporary life and living. His teaching and preaching are characterized by emotional depth, relevant wisdom, and a solid grounding in Jewish texts and tradition. Whether on the bimah, in a hospital room or over coffee, he brings a gentle strength and a deep listening presence. He was once described as being able to bring hope amidst the existential dread that many of us often face in life. 
 
Before joining Or-Ami, Rabbi Ettman served in congregational leadership roles across the country, working with communities of all sizes in California, Oregon and briefly in Florida. He is passionate about building a spiritual home where people show up for one another, wrestle with meaningful questions, and discover a Judaism they didn’t know they needed.
 
Rabbi Ettman resides in the Philadelphia area with his wife, Ellie, and their daughter, Shoshana. When he’s not teaching, officiating at life cycle events or dreaming about the future of Jewish life, you can find him walking his dog, playing golf, talking about wine, pop culture and musical theater or finding modern meaning in ancient words.

Contact Rabbi Ettman >