Rabbi Michael Sternfield is a Reform Jewish rabbi, ordained by the Hebrew Union College, based in Los Angeles, California. He often conducts wedding ceremonies for interfaith and intercultural couples. He is available for weddings in Southern California, throughout the United States, and international destinations.
Rabbi Sternfield believes that rabbis should be open to officiating at interfaith and intercultural weddings, without conditions.
Over the years, Rabbi Sternfield has officiated and co-officiated at many weddings combining Judaism with a wide array of other religions, cultures and ethnic groups. He enjoys combining cultural components from other groups, often including materials in other languages.
Rabbi Sternfield always meets with couples well in advance, preferably in person or virtually if necessary. He wants to get to know each couple well enough to add a personal touch to their wedding ceremony. He is happy to meet with prospective couples on a get acquainted basis after which they will decide if they would like to invite him to be their wedding rabbi. He does not require a deposit or a contract. His word is his bond.
A few words about Rabbi Sternfield’s “style.” He believes that weddings should be dignified but not stuffy. This will be the most important event in a couple’s life. Their ceremony should be a reflection of its significance, never perfunctory. The wedding should be beautiful and inspiring for all in attendance. He strives to make it a joyous event but he definitely avoids cheesy gimmicks!
Rabbi Sternfield understands that weddings should be concise, approximately one half hour in length.
Rabbi Sternfield can be reached by phone at 312-320-5538 or by email here. He is also available for funerals and memorial services.
Rabbi Sternfield is happy to provide references from families with whom he has worked in the past.