When Rabbi Berlin was ordained at Hebrew Union College, she began her rabbinate at Temple Sinai, where she served for thirteen and a half years. During that time, she and the congregation forged a deep and lasting bond, growing together through worship, learning, and life’s milestones. She quickly gained a reputation throughout the Bay Area as a compassionate pastoral caregiver, an inspiring preacher, and a dynamic teacher. Stepping back from the full-time rabbinate to create a new rhythm for family life was a bittersweet decision for both Rabbi Berlin and Temple Sinai.
Even while running her own consulting firm, Rabbi Berlin remained deeply engaged in Jewish communal life. Known for her leadership and voice, she was invited to preach at synagogues across the Bay Area and served as Guest High Holiday Rabbi for Anshe Chesed, Fairmount Temple in Beachwood, Ohio (now Congregation Mishkan Or). The connection with that community was so meaningful that she returned for six consecutive years. She also dedicated a decade of service to the Central Conference of American Rabbis’ Ethics Committee, including five years as chair—a role she has called both the most difficult and the most meaningful work of her rabbinate.
Rabbi Berlin’s first interim position was with Congregation Shomrei Torah in Santa Rosa, California. The year was an overwhelming success: congregants felt spiritually cared for, and the community was well-prepared to welcome its new settled rabbi.