The path that led Cantor Gitlin to Glen Cove—and ultimately to CTI—was anything but straightforward. Over two decades ago, Gitlin served as a cantor at Congregación Israelita de Santa Fe in Argentina, but dreamed of bringing his talents and community-focused spirit to the United States. It was no easy feat: “I sent over 400 emails to congregations across America,” he remembers, “but heard only silence.” That changed unexpectedly when Bill Friedlieb, then-president of CTI, reached out—not with the job he expected, but with a new opportunity for a full-time cantor.

This gesture set in motion a life-changing journey. After a brief correspondence, Friedlieb purchased a plane ticket so Gitlin could interview in person. “They didn’t just offer me a job,” Gitlin recalls. “They welcomed my entire family as their own.”

Arriving at JFK, Gitlin was greeted and given a tour of Glen Cove’s schools and shops. “I thought I was coming for a simple interview,” he admits, “but by the time we reached the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, Bill started discussing my contract.”

Although music had always been in his blood—his grandfather was also a cantor—Gitlin’s path was far from certain. Initially, he worked in the family’s baby clothing business. “My mother, the strongest in our family, insisted on cantorial school,” Gitlin shares. It was only after his move to Glen Cove—a place he had nearly overlooked—that he felt he’d found his true calling.

Several years later, Rabbi Huberman entered the picture. A native of Montreal, Huberman’s background was rooted in journalism and Canadian politics, having served as both newspaper editor and press secretary in Alberta. It was his wife’s encouragement that inspired a career shift: “She came back from a conference and said, ‘Maybe it’s time you upgraded who you work for.’”

Taking this to heart, Huberman enrolled at New York’s Academy of Jewish Religion, and soon connected with CTI, who were seeking a leader to partner with their Argentinian cantor. “They even asked if I played guitar,” he laughs.

The partnership between Gitlin and Huberman marked a turning point for CTI, expanding the congregation from 139 to more than 350 families. Their shared commitment is simple: welcome people wherever they are on their Jewish journey. “We prioritize each individual’s way of connecting—through prayer, learning, or social action,” Huberman explains.

This year marks a significant milestone: 18 years of partnership. In Jewish tradition, the number 18, ‘chai,’ stands for life, symbolizing vitality and blessing—a fitting tribute to their enduring collaboration. “Eighteen years together—it’s truly a celebration of a lifetime,” says Huberman.

Innovation in worship has blossomed under their leadership, from musical Shabbats and Broadway-inspired services to kayaks on Long Island Sound and Havdalah bonfires. “Sometimes we say, if it’s not broken, break it,” Huberman smiles. “We want to redefine what a synagogue can be.”

Yet, what truly unites the CTI community goes beyond creativity—it’s the care and support shared among its members. “The cantor will show up at your home, hold your hand, and sing when you need it most,” Huberman notes. Their friendship, built on deep mutual respect and understanding, continues to set the tone for the entire congregation.

“Sometimes, we don’t need words to communicate,” Gitlin says. Huberman agrees: “For us, it’s about putting people first—always.”