Rabbi Lazar is an incredible person. He is such a kind-hearted and thoughtful person with a warm spirit. He is open-minded and inclusive, especially to those who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, or anything in between. If you're in the desert and you're looking for spiritual uplifting, I highly recommend Or Hamidbar. read more

Rabbi Lazar is the real deal. He is kind and caring and one of the most interesting rabbi's I have ever met. He cares not only about those in his congregation, but his outreach stretches to many areas in Palm Springs. He cares about the homeless and those disadvantaged. Even though I no longer live in the desert, when I come back to the area, this is where I attend. I love how thoughtful and compassionate he is, a true mensch! read more

Very excited to have Rabbi Lazar here in the desert. It is very apparent that Rabbi David Lazar is passionate about helping others in the community in need through inclusivity. Two Wednesdays a month he is available at the coffeeshop I own for intimate conversations - it's like having your own personal counseling session! I have witnessed on many occasions his compassion for others and desire to help others in their time of need, regardless of a persons' faith and or beliefs. When my father-in-law was ill with stage IV cancer, he was very sensitive to the needs to my husband and was a great listener when we just needed someone to talk to. read more

Someone told me they weren't able to see the first review that I posted about Or Hamidbar, so I'm trying again! If you'd like to come to Shabbat services led by a rabbi who is inclusive, compassionate, and down-to-earth, then look no further. Rabbi David Lazar is an incredible rabbi and a mensch! Check out their website for events and calendar. Or Hamidbar.org read more

Rabbi Lazar is offering a more complete Judaic spiritual experience with Or Hamidbar, not just religious services. Weekly Torah study, education, communing with nature, and spritual guidance are all available. His depth of biblical knowledge is remarkable, and he is extremely willing and able to impart that knowledge increasing my involvement in Judaism like never before. In addition there is a solid community which follows and supports him, his endeavors and each other. Peter Gordon read more

Or Hamidbar is a new "center without walls" for Jewish spirituality and learning in the Coachella Valley. Rabbi Lazar brings deep understanding, wide learning, and full commitment to our community. He is dedicated to social justice and all paths of spiritual growth for everyone, regardless of background - and has a wealth of experience with many different kinds of Jewish organizations and religious traditions. We are proud to be part of this new community in the desert - truly a "Light in the Wilderness". read more

Rabbi David Lazar is the right spiritual leader at the right time, right here in Palm Springs. Scholarly, articulate, compassionate, generous, often hilarious, he helps everyone who wants to find fulfillment in Jewish tradition and practice. Rabbi Lazar serves the community at large as a teacher, via Or Hamidbar classes as described on the organization's website as well as individual tutoring and counseling. He organizes and participates in community-building LGBTQ activities and other causes. And he shows up when you need him, as he did when my stepson, whom the Rabbi had never met, lay dying of ALS. Rabbi Lazar walks his talk wherever it leads him. We are beyond lucky to have him here. read more

Or Hamidbar is a wonderful group of diverse, welcoming, friendly people led by Rabbi David Lazar. Besides Shabbat services, Rabbi David leads Torah and other classes as well as social functions including hikes, wine tasting, coffee shop and other excursions. He is a kind, sensitive, gifted counselor and a highly educated, articulate, and talented teacher. I highly recommend Or Hamidbar as an inclusive, accepting, diverse group which is more like an extended family than an institution. read more