Meet Rabbi Gavriel Jacknin - The Heartbeat and Architect of BJC
Born and bred on Long Island, New York and a dyed-in-the-wool Mets fan since childhood, Rabbi Jacknin, or Rabbi J as he's affectionately known, has carried his fervor for life all the way to the Bellaire Jewish Center (BJC). He is a proud graduate of SUNY Binghamton with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing and Management, but it was his blossoming passion for Judaism during these formative years that directed his steps towards a path of spiritual fulfillment.
Years of immersive study at diverse Yeshivas such as Aish, Shar Yashuv and the Mirrer culminated in his Rabbinic ordination from Rabbi Zalman Nechemia Goldberg of Jerusalem. And it was this inner flame that gave birth to his vision: spreading the 'Joy of Judaism.'
Together with his beloved wife Michal, Rabbi J breathed life into the Bellaire Jewish Center in October 2010. The BJC has become a vibrant hub radiating the joy of Judaism through engaging programs, illuminating classes, heartfelt services and, yes, AWESOME parties! When he's not deep in Torah or teaching, you can find Rabbi J indulging in tennis, softball, jogging (he ran the NYC marathon at 20), and a good old chat over a refreshing iced coffee. To meet, study or just shmooze with Rabbi J, get in touch at 832-971-3781 or rabbi@bjchouston.org
Born and bred on Long Island, New York and a dyed-in-the-wool Mets fan since childhood, Rabbi Jacknin, or Rabbi J as he's affectionately known, has carried his fervor for life all the way to the Bellaire Jewish Center (BJC). He is a proud graduate of SUNY Binghamton with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing and Management, but it was his blossoming passion for Judaism during these formative years that directed his steps towards a path of spiritual fulfillment.
Years of immersive study at diverse Yeshivas such as Aish, Shar Yashuv and the Mirrer culminated in his Rabbinic ordination from Rabbi Zalman Nechemia Goldberg of Jerusalem. And it was this inner flame that gave birth to his vision: spreading the 'Joy of Judaism.'
Together with his beloved wife Michal, Rabbi J breathed life into the Bellaire Jewish Center in October 2010. The BJC has become a vibrant hub radiating the joy of Judaism through engaging programs, illuminating classes, heartfelt services and, yes, AWESOME parties! When he's not deep in Torah or teaching, you can find Rabbi J indulging in tennis, softball, jogging (he ran the NYC marathon at 20), and a good old chat over a refreshing iced coffee. To meet, study or just shmooze with Rabbi J, get in touch at 832-971-3781 or rabbi@bjchouston.org
Introducing Mrs. Michal Jacknin - The Harmonizing Force of the BJC
Michal, apart from being the proud mother of five, is the cornerstone of the BJC. Balancing her roles of teaching, planning, cooking for the BJC and exploring the outdoors, she's a whirlwind of energy and enthusiasm. She helms the much-loved BJC Challah Club, delivers a weekly class '48 Ways of Wisdom', and manages the children's programming. Once a year, she also leads an inspiring Women's Israel trip that has been growing exponentially.
Michal is the heart of the community and is always excited to connect with you. Drop her a line at 845-538-6128 or michaljacknin@gmail.com
She would love to hear from you!
Rabbi Gavriel and Michal are blessed with five amazing children, Yehuda, Eliyahu, Ashira, Avraham, and Emmy, who all contribute to the BJC mission. They'd be absolutely thrilled to host y'all for a Shabbat!
Michal, apart from being the proud mother of five, is the cornerstone of the BJC. Balancing her roles of teaching, planning, cooking for the BJC and exploring the outdoors, she's a whirlwind of energy and enthusiasm. She helms the much-loved BJC Challah Club, delivers a weekly class '48 Ways of Wisdom', and manages the children's programming. Once a year, she also leads an inspiring Women's Israel trip that has been growing exponentially.
Michal is the heart of the community and is always excited to connect with you. Drop her a line at 845-538-6128 or michaljacknin@gmail.com
She would love to hear from you!
Rabbi Gavriel and Michal are blessed with five amazing children, Yehuda, Eliyahu, Ashira, Avraham, and Emmy, who all contribute to the BJC mission. They'd be absolutely thrilled to host y'all for a Shabbat!
Presenting Mrs. Ahuva Konovitch - Co-Director of the BJC Sunday School
Ahuva's life has been a kaleidoscope of teaching and nurturing experiences. She's been an art teacher, a day camp director, a special education teacher, and now a speech language pathologist, passionately infusing joy in the learning process for children of all ages. Ahuva brings to BJC a dynamic approach to education, blending Jewish customs and traditions with exciting and hands-on learning experiences. An art enthusiast at heart, she finds joy in drawing, painting, and music. She's a proud mother of two adorable little ones, aged 3 and 18 months.
Ahuva's life has been a kaleidoscope of teaching and nurturing experiences. She's been an art teacher, a day camp director, a special education teacher, and now a speech language pathologist, passionately infusing joy in the learning process for children of all ages. Ahuva brings to BJC a dynamic approach to education, blending Jewish customs and traditions with exciting and hands-on learning experiences. An art enthusiast at heart, she finds joy in drawing, painting, and music. She's a proud mother of two adorable little ones, aged 3 and 18 months.
Welcome Mrs. Elisheva Bresler - Co-Director of the BJC Sunday School
Born and raised in the windy city of Chicago, Elisheva holds a Bachelor's degree in Science and Liberal Arts from Excelsior College and a Master's degree in Speech Language Pathology from Nova Southeastern University. Her journey in education has taken her from being a pre-k teacher in Chicago to a nursery teacher in Lakewood, New Jersey, always nurturing her deep-rooted love for Jewish education. The Bresler family found their new home in Houston in May of 2017, joining the Kollel of Houston Torah Center. Now, Elisheva is thrilled to be continuing her journey at BJC, sharing the beauty and wisdom of Judaism with young, inquisitive minds.
All four of these dynamic individuals bring their passion, knowledge, and vibrant spirit to the Bellaire Jewish Center. Each day, they pour their hearts into creating a warm, engaging environment where learning and growth are entwined with joy and camaraderie. Come join us at BJC and experience this unique energy and commitment firsthand!