By Marshall Weiss, The Dayton Jewish Observer

In a February letter to congregants, Beth Abraham Synagogue President Mary Rita Weissman announced that the board has extended Rabbi Bernard Barsky’s contract for two additional years, through Aug. 1, 2014.

Weissman also wrote, “Our agreement makes provision for the board to begin a rabbi search this summer and provides Rabbi Barsky a sabbatical period of six months at the end of his contract.”

Barsky, 66, came to Beth Abraham in 2003. He served the Conservative congregation through a time of transition; in 2008, Beth Abraham moved from its home of 49 years on Salem Avenue to its current site in Oakwood.

“We have grown and flourished, congregation and rabbi together,” Weissman continued. “This is due in large measure to Rabbi Barsky’s leadership.”

Barsky said he’s not planning to retire. “I hope I’ve been an asset to Beth Abraham,” he said. “As Beth Abraham looks for a new rabbi, I’ll be looking for a new congregation. I intend to go on working for the Jewish community for as long as I am in excellent health and love what I do.”