Samuel Chiel - Rabbi Emeritus

Rabbi Samuel Chiel served as rabbi of Temple Emanuel from 1968 until his retirement in June 1995.

During those 27 years, Rabbi Chiel brought to our congregation his unique combination of erudition, insight and warmth. He initiated many important innovations, and our congregation grew in numbers and stature under his gifted leadership, making our synagogue one of the leading congregations in the country.

Rabbi Chiel continues to be active in our community. He serves as Scholar-in-Residence at the Combined Jewish Philanthropies. He is Special Advisor to the President of Hebrew College and Director of its newly created Rabbinic Institute. He is the Jewish Scholar in the interfaith programs: New Directions - Catholic-Jewish-Dialogue, sponsored by the Anti-Defamation League and the Archdiocese of Greater Boston.

Rabbi Chiel is married to Janet, who was a gifted teacher in the Newton Public Schools for many years until her retirement. They are the parents of Hillel and Elizabeth, who live in Cleveland, David and Danielle who live in Brisbane, Australia and Jonathan and Judy, who live in Newton. They have eight grandchildren who are the light of their lives.