Rabbi Mara Nathan, who has been the Senior Rabbi at San Antonio's Temple Beth-El for the past four years, will deliver the Invocation to open Friday's session of the U.S. House of Representatives, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.
“I feel incredibly honored and excited about this opportunity to address House of Representatives and to represent city of San Antonio and Temple Beth-El,” Rabbi Nathan said.
U.S. Rep Joaquin Castro nominated Rabbi Nathan for the prestigious honor.
"This is a unique opportunity in my 18-year career as a rabbi and a special day in my life."
Rabbi Nathan says she will be urging Members of Congress and the nation to “recognize our need to reach our full potentials, and the spark of holiness in all human beings."
She won't travel to Washington alone. She will be accompanied by a delegation of 11th and 12th graders who will be attending a series of programs conducted by the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism. They will be discussing topics ranging from Israel to reproductive rights and the environment.
Rabbi Nathan, who is also an accomplished musician, has been recognized as one of the nation's prominent young rabbis leading Reform Judaism. She also leads a noteworthy congregation which includes two female rabbis and a female cantor.
PHOTO: TEMPLE BETH-EL. USED BY PERMISSION