Rabbi David Arias, a native of Chile, joins Fort Myers synagogue after decade as spiritual leader, Jewish educator in Israel
An overflow crowd of nearly 200 congregants, community and faith leaders, friends and family formally welcomed Rabbi David Arias as the new spiritual leader of Temple Judea, Fort Myers’ Conservative synagogue, at a Nov. 10 installation ceremony.
Arias is a native of Chile who joins Temple Judea from the Moriah Congregation in Haifa, Israel, where he led the country’s oldest Conservative synagogue in its third largest city.
Arias spent the past decade in Israel, where he both served in the military and was ordained as a rabbi. As a reservist, he fought in the ongoing war in Gaza spurred by the Oct. 7, 2023, terror attacks on Israel.
The installation ceremony began with a prayer on behalf of the more than 100 Israelis who remain in captivity more than one year later.
Arias has also served as a cantor and prayer leader in Jewish communities in South America, Israel and now, Southwest Florida.
“We came here to fulfill one of our dreams, to be in touch with more Jews, helping them in their Jewish journey, to strengthen their Jewish identity, to deepen their connection with the land of Israel — bringing a bit of Israel to this corner of the world, to Southwest Florida,” Arias said.
The installation ceremony featured prayers and songs in three languages — English, Spanish and Hebrew. An Israeli band provided the entertainment, followed by a luncheon featuring traditional Jewish dishes such as kugel, a Jewish casserole, and other delights.
About Temple Judea
Temple Judea is an egalitarian Conservative synagogue located at 14486 A&W Bulb Rd. in Fort Myers, Florida. The synagogue serves approximately 120 households, proudly affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. Temple Judea perceives its congregation as a “family of families” and prides itself on being a warm and supportive community.
In addition to prayer services, Temple Judea also provides for the educational needs of the community with a preschool, Hebrew school and adult education classes. For more information, visit tjswfl.org, email tjswfl@gmail.com or call 239-433-0201.
