Rabbi Josh Rose is a teacher of Jewish thought and culture.

His work centers on close engagement with Jewish texts as sources of insight into the experience of being human—and on translating their depth and complexity for contemporary seekers. Grounded in theology, history, and philosophy, and marked by a commitment to honesty and intellectual integrity over ideology, Rabbi Josh offers a distinctive approach to Jewish learning and guidance.

After more than a decade serving congregations in the Reform and Conservative movements, Rabbi Josh left synagogue life in 2021 to found Co/Lab: Reimagine Jewish, a nonprofit organization opening new doors to Jewish life through art, ideas, and culture. In 2025, Co/Lab gave rise to Art/Lab: Innovating Jewish Arts and Culture, where he serves as Rabbinic Advisor.

Rabbi Josh holds an MTS from Harvard Divinity School and an MHL and rabbinic ordination from Hebrew Union College. His teaching is shaped by a love of the artistry of Jewish wisdom texts, serious engagement with the Jewish past, philosophical inquiry, and a willingness to wrestle openly with theological doubt and uncertainty.

He lives in Portland with his wife and three children.

Contact: rabbijosh@colabpdx.org