YOUNGSTOWN — Rabbi Courtney Berman has been installed as the inaugural rabbi for Congregation Ohev Beth Sholom.

The installation ceremony was part of a special Shabbat ritual service earlier this month.

“This is a once-in-a- lifetime occasion. The words I share at this big occasion have been carefully considered and live up to what this moment deserves. How can I convey in words how truly special this is for me to be installed as your rabbi,” Berman said.

She said becoming a congregational rabbi is what she always has wanted.

Berman said from the time of her first Zoom interview with the search committee, she said she felt an “immediate connection.”

”During the first interview when everyone was introducing themselves, I could tell I was with people who cared deeply about one another and their community.

“As I watched and listened to them on the screen I felt I was already a part of this interesting and unique group of people who I had only just met on Zoom. I remember signing off and sitting at my desk for a few moments and processing what had just happened. When I walked down the hall where (spouse) Jeffrey was, I was a little lost in my thoughts. Jeffrey took one look at me and said ‘We’re moving to Youngstown,'” she said.

She said in her second interview after answering questions, she also asked questions on how the merger of the congregations affected the congregation and what issues arose.

“That interview was a turning point for me in so many ways. In that Zoom meeting with a dozen people who I had never met in person or in a community I had never visited, helped me realize all the experiences I have had to prepare me to be your rabbi,” Berman said.

She said it has been an amazing experience so far.

Berman said what shines through from the merger of congregations are “the shared values of what we have as a cohesive and vibrant congregation.”

“I value our rich mix of traditions. What we have here is special and unique,” Berman said.

Rabbi David Fine, who served as the installing rabbi, said members of Congregation Ohev Beth Sholom have received gifts in their lives from having Berman here.

State and local dignitaries attended and presented proclamations to Berman on the special occasion.

Before coming to Youngstown, Berman lived in Ormond Beach, Florida, and served as the rabbi of Temple Beth-El.

Berman grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.