Rabbi Kaiser-Blueth’s decision to attend the Hebrew University was precipitated by the political turmoil in his native country, Argentina. “I had to interrupt my studies there as a consequence of the tragic events leading to the ‘desaparecidos’ – university students who were kidnapped and systematically executed,” says Rabbi Kaiser-Blueth. The opportunity to study and live in Israel was the turning point in his life.

While working towards his M.A. in Jewish Contemporary History, he was afforded the opportunity to tour the country and come to a deeper understanding of the complexities of Israeli life, why Israel is so important to Jews, and why it must remain strong and vibrant.  In light of this unique experience, he and his wife decided to send their three children to an intensive semester of learning at the Hebrew University. Suffice to say, the whole Kaiser-Blueth family had their Jewish identity strengthened and came to understand the reality of Israel in a way that was far more nuanced than before. Two of their children met their future spouses there and, in turn, have led several tours to Israel.

Besides becoming the leader of a vibrant and growing congregation, Synagogue Beth Tikvah, Rabbi Kaiser-Blueth finds many ways to give back to the Vancouver Jewish community.  As he describes it,  “One thought that has been implanted in my memory and I have made part of my thinking and acting is this: More than Israel needs the Diaspora, the Diaspora Jew needs Israel.”