Rabbi of Lud

In Rabbi of Lud, a rabbi navigates his unique role in a town defined by death, while his daughter seeks to escape its somber atmosphere.

In Rabbi of Lud, the small town of Lud, New Jersey, is depicted as a place steeped in the business of death, surrounded by cemeteries that mark the landscape. Rabbi Jerry Goldkorn, the town's only rabbi, finds himself with a singular duty: to conduct burial services for the Jewish community in nearby cities. Despite the somber nature of his role and the absence of a synagogue or congregation, Rabbi Goldkorn has grown fond of this unusual town, feeling a sense of belonging that he never expected after his Arctic misadventures brought him to Lud.

Connie, the rabbi's only living child, holds a contrasting view of Lud. She is determined to escape the gloom of her hometown, yearning for a more vibrant life beyond the confines of the graveyards. Connie's quest for excitement leads her to an extraordinary encounter: she claims to have met the Virgin Mary during a late-night adventure through the local cemeteries. This revelation sets off a chain of events that brings unexpected energy to the town and challenges the status quo.

As the story unfolds, Rabbi of Lud explores themes of faith, family, and the search for meaning in a place that seems defined by death. The interactions between Rabbi Goldkorn and Connie highlight the generational divide and differing perspectives on life and death, making for a poignant narrative filled with humor and heart.