Jim North joined Kol Ami with his husband, Rabbi Richard Ruth z’’l, in 2003, and together they participated fully in the life and learning of the community for many years. A Jew by choice, Jim studied with a range of Jewish teachers — including Rabbi Leila Gal Berner, Rabbi Gershon Winkler, Rabbi Miriam Maron, and Rabbi Shefa Gold — across Reconstructionist, Renewal, Reform, and other diverse platforms.
The warm embrace of Kol Ami sustained them through many life events, including their wedding in 2008 and Jim’s bar mitzvah in 2005. Jim has always loved music and singing as a spiritual practice. He helps lead the Kol Amites musical ensemble, bringing his passion and skill to enhance worship and community gatherings. Most recently, he participated in cohorts 11 and 12 of the Jewish Renewal Movement’s Davennen Leadership Training Institute (DLTI), studying with cantorial and rabbinic students to explore ways of bringing kavannah (intention) and vitality to Jewish liturgical practice.
Jim retired from the U.S. Department of State in 2020 after 31 years leading and managing foreign language training programs for federal employees with overseas assignments requiring language skills. He enjoys playing guitar and co-leading services whenever possible.
Sign up for a monthly newsletter about upcoming Kol Ami services and programs.
