Rabbi Arik Labowitz is a multifaceted spiritual leader, educator, and musician, deeply committed to fostering connections, compassion, and wisdom within the Jewish tradition. Born into a legacy of Jewish Renewal, with parents Rabbi Phil Labowitz and the late Rabbi Shoni Labowitz z”l, Arik’s formative years were enriched by learning from Reb Zalman and his early students during weekend retreats at his family’s South Florida home.

Eager to delve deeper into his spiritual path, Arik journeyed to Israel to immerse himself in traditional life and studies, spending transformative years at Yeshivat Machon Meir and Darche Noam/Shapells in Jerusalem from 1995 to 1997. Returning to North America, he continued his studies at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California, embodying a commitment to a diverse and enriched understanding of Jewish tradition.

Over the past two decades, Rabbi Arik has played pivotal roles in various Jewish leadership capacities. From 2007 to 2021, he served as the spiritual leader of Congregation Eitz Or, where his unique fusion of tradition and innovation created a vibrant and inclusive Jewish spiritual community. Arik’s impact extends beyond Eitz Or, as a regular visiting leader for communities along the West Coast, including Kol Shofar in Marin, CA, the Aquarian Minyan in Berkeley, CA, and Shir Hayam in Bainbridge, WA. Rabbi Arik’s heartfelt teachings and engaging services have inspired congregants of all ages.

Rabbi Arik, along with his wife, Aliza, and their two sons, Judah and Noah, recently relocated to Vancouver, drawn by the desire to be closer to family as well as the captivating natural beauty of the water and mountains.

Excitement abounds as Rabbi Arik joins Or Shalom, Vancouver’s Jewish Renewal congregation and spiritual playground. Partnering with Rabbi Hannah, he eagerly anticipates contributing to the community’s growth and evolution into the next era of Jewish life in Vancouver. With a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, Rabbi Arik Labowitz continues to inspire, educate, and create meaningful connections within the vibrant tapestry of Jewish spiritual life.