Clergy
Makom Ohr Shalom has
been an integral part of my
spiritual path since its
inception in 1978, when we
met in private homes.
I began as a Cantorial
Soloist in 1978 with Rabbi
Ted Falcon (founder of
Makom Ohr Shalom) and
have studied cantorial
works with two great
Cantors, Allan Michaelson
of Adat Ari El, and William
Sharlin of Leo Baeck
Temple.
I studied Music Composition and received my Bachelors
of Arts degree at Immaculate Heart College. I also hold a
teaching credential, and continue to teach music and
vocal instruction in elementary schools with Los Angeles
Unified School District. Over the years I composed my
own original liturgical compositions and many of those
compositions have been published and shared all over
the Jewish world.
For years I was known as “Cantor Monty” with Makom,
first with Rabbi Ted Falcon and then later with Rabbi
Mordechai Finley, Rabbi David Cooper and Rabbi Debra
Orenstein.
I was inspired to continue my spiritual journey and
become a Rabbi myself. Studying at the Academy of
Jewish Religion, I received my Master’s degree in
Jewish Studies, and I was ordained as a Rabbi in 2005.
Shortly thereafter I began to take on rabbinical duties at
Makom Ohr Shalom, while still continuing as Musical
Director of our wonderful choir.
In my many years as Clergy at Makom, I have found that
officiating at Lifecycle events- Weddings, Bar & Bat
Mitzvah’s, Baby namings, and Funerals, bring me the
most joy. I feel that these events are my special calling,
and I am readily available for anyone who has a
Lifecycle event.
Melanie Turner is my wife and my best friend. We have
been together since 2003 and we have three children
between us.
Feel free to contact Monty direct. (310) 479-1270
Rabbi Monty Turner