Clergy

Rabbi Arthur Stern is the rabbi and spiritual leader of Temple Israel. He earned an MBA and a master’s degree in Spiritual Psychology as well as a Doctorate in Psychology. As a life-long learner, with a passion to help others and be of service to God, Rabbi Stern answered a calling to become an ordained rabbi. In May 2020 he reached his goal as he was ordained by the Academy of Jewish Religion in California. His interests include bringing our intergenerational community closer together, allowing people to explore new ways to practice Judaism and supporting others as they grow in their spiritual and religious beliefs. He has a genuine concern for the joys and pains of all people and a commitment to viewing Torah as a foundation for human wisdom and way of life.

Rabbi Barry Marks is rabbi emeritus of Temple Israel. He retired from the pulpit in June of 2020 after serving the congregation for 47 years. In addition to his involvement with the Temple and the wider Jewish community, Rabbi Marks has been active in numerous civic, philanthropic and educational organizations. He is a co-founder of the Greater Springfield Interfaith Association and currently serves on the Board of United Way of Central Illinois. In 2011, he was the recipient of the First Citizen Award given out annually by the State Journal-Register. Rabbi Marks is married to Nancy Sage, who is the executive director of the Jewish Federation of Springfield. He is the father of Philip, who lives in Springfield with his wife Regan and with grandchildren Eva, Karter, Jedd and Archie.