Rabbi Stephen Pearce

After nearly 20 years at San Francisco’s largest synagogue, Rabbi Stephen Pearce has announced he will step down as senior rabbi of Congregation Emanu-El. His retirement is effective June 30, 2013.

Pearce informed the Emanu-El board of directors last month that he wanted to devote more time to writing and scholarship. Upon his retirement, Pearce will assume the role of rabbi emeritus.

The synagogue’s board has set up an advisory search committee, and soon will launch a national search for a replacement. Emanu-El continues to be served by rabbis Sydney Mintz, Yoni Jaffe, Ryan Bauer and Carla Fenves.