Rabbis
Don Rossoff
Interim Rabbi
Rabbi Don Rossoff comes to Temple Emanuel after having served as Interim Rabbi for Barnert Temple in Franklin Lakes, NJ, Temple Beth Am in Framingham, MA, and the Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation in Evanston, Illinois. He also served as senior rabbi of Temple B’Nia Or in Morristown, NJ from 1990-2015. Additionally, he authored the children’s book, “A Perfect Prayer.” His experience assisting synagogues in transition will prove invaluable as Temple Emanuel begins its search for a new settled rabbi after Rabbi Mahler’s retirement.
Jessica Locketz 
Rabbi and Director of Education
Rabbi Jessica E. Locketz is the Rabbi and Director of Education of Temple Emanuel. She has been a part of the Temple family since July 2004. Rabbi Locketz oversees family and youth programming, serves as educator and leader of the Torah Center religious school and coordinates adult education. She spends time with the preschool students, facilitates Teen High Holy Day services, and looks to engage with Temple members of all ages. Rabbi Locketz also assists with the many pastoral duties of the congregation.
Mark Joel Mahler 
Rabbi Emeritus
Rabbi Mark Joel Mahler served Temple Emanuel of South Hills for 38 years. During his first five years at the congregation, Rabbi Mahler was Associate Rabbi and the Temple Educator for greater Pittsburgh’s largest Jewish religious school. In 1985, Rabbi Mahler was elected Rabbi of the congregation. He served Temple Emanuel in many capacities: pastor, preacher and teacher, singer, songwriter and guitarist, humorist and social commentator. Rabbi Mahler served Temple Emanuel longer than any other active rabbi in Pittsburgh has served his or her synagogue, one measure among many of his rabbinate.
William Sajowitz z”l
Rabbi Emeritus
Rabbi William Sajowitz served Temple Emanuel from 1968 until 1985. Under his leadership, Temple Emanuel grew from 70 to 600 families. During his 17 years of distinguished and devoted service, Rabbi Sajowitz guided the creation of cultural, educational, social action, and youth programs. He also helped found South Hills Interfaith Movement, with whom Temple still partners on many social action programs throughout the year. Rabbi Sajowitz passed away on December 7, 1997 at the age of 78.