Rabbi Jeffrey D. Lerman was affirmed by the Elders and Members of Sha’arei Shalom as the new Congregational Leader and an Elder in late March 2025.
Before this role, Rabbi Lerman served for a decade in Sarasota, Florida, where he planted a Messianic synagogue and helped cast a vision for the Union. He holds rabbinical s’micha (ordination) through both the Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations (UMJC) and the Messianic Jewish Rabbinical Council (MJRC)—a body of ordained rabbis and associates committed to promoting covenantal faithfulness among Jewish and non-Jewish followers of Messiah Yeshua.
Rabbi Lerman also earned a Master of Rabbinical Studies from the Messianic Jewish Theological Institute (MJTI). He specializes in connecting the Torah to the Apostolic Writings and is known for his ability to unpack complex biblical passages in a three-dimensional, practical, and accessible way. His passion lies in serving the Messianic community, focusing on teaching and pastoral care.
In addition, Rabbi Lerman holds a B.S. in Business Management from Hodges University and brings a successful background in finance, with a proven track record in financial planning and management.
He and his wife, Brooke, reside locally with their vibrant mishpocha (family), consisting of nine children—seven handsome boys and two lovely girls—not to mention a lively host of dogs and cats.
Mike Kaufman is the Assistant Congregational Leader and an elder of Congregation Sha’arei Shalom. Joining Sha'arei Shalom Fellowship in 2008, Mike's commitment grew steadily. He became an ordained elder in 2012 and has dedicated himself to Messianic Jewish ministry for over 25 years, including serving as Interim congregation leader, assistant congregational leader, Bible teacher, homegroup leader, and head of men’s ministry.
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Before devoting himself to his current roles, Mike had a successful dual career. He served for two decades as a Navy Officer and then worked for another 23 years in North Carolina Public Health. On the academic side, Mike has a Bachelor’s degree from Marquette University and a Master's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He lives in Cary with his wife Lynn.