About Rabbi Malka

Creative. Mindful. Inclusive. Jewish.

I’m Rabbi Malka Packer, a queer Reconstructionist rabbi, spiritual coach, educator, and life-cycle officiant based in Atlanta, Georgia. I’m the Program Coordinator for the Atlanta Rabbinic Leadership Lab at Candler School of Theology and Rabbi Educator at Congregation Bet Haverim, an LGBTQIA+-centered Reconstructionist Jewish community.

I create meaningful, personalized wedding ceremonies that honor your story, your values, your identities, and the people and traditions that have shaped you. Whether you’re Jewish, interfaith, LGBTQIA+, exploring Judaism, or simply looking for a ceremony that feels authentically yours, I’ll help you create a celebration that is joyful, thoughtful, inclusive, and deeply personal.

About Me

I’m passionate about helping people uncover deeper meaning, spirituality, and joy in their daily lives. My work centers inclusivity and accessibility, and I bring a playful spirit, a grounded presence, and a collaborative approach to everything I do.

For 10 years, I served as the Founding Director of 18Doors Atlanta, where I supported interfaith couples and families and provided training and resources to Jewish clergy and communities working to become more welcoming and inclusive.

I’m also an activist committed to justice, equity, and LGBTQ+ inclusion in Jewish life and beyond. My rabbinate is shaped by a deep belief in collective liberation, and I strive to uplift marginalized voices and create spaces where everyone feels seen and valued.

I’ve served on the boards of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association, SOJOURN (Southern Jewish Resource Network for Gender and Sexual Diversity), and MACoM (Metro Atlanta Community Mikvah). Since 2005, I’ve been deeply involved in addiction recovery work—supporting individuals in 12-step programs and helping Jewish communities engage with healing and wholeness.

Education & Background

Rabbinic Ordination – Reconstructionist Rabbinical College (2014)
M.Ed. in Elementary Education & Creative Arts in Learning – Lesley University (1999)
B.A. in English & Women’s Studies – University of Rochester (1997)

Before becoming a rabbi, I worked as a Jewish educator for more than a decade, weaving creativity, compassion, and connection into classrooms and communities.

I love building meaningful rituals, empowering people in their spiritual journeys, and co-creating Jewish experiences that honor both tradition and individuality.