About Me

More about Rabbi Asher

After retiring from thirty-five years in the newspaper business and nearly ten years of retirement, I decided to attend rabbinical school at The Jewish Spiritual Leadership Institute (JSLI). I had enjoyed studying and leading services at my synagogue so much that I wanted to do it as a full-fledged rabbi. I graduated and received my ordination in June of 2025.

introducing Rabbi Michael Asher

In my leadership experiences during my work career in the newspaper business, I learned how to talk to and motivate people, how to be empathetic and how to help people towards success. These skills help me be a better rabbi and has led me in my pastoral work and focus on helping people.

I found a whole different side of my life by running religious services and engaging with congregants. This helped guide me to the path of attending rabbinical school. As I studied more, I felt the desire to spread the knowledge I had gained, with the community.

Being Jewish means being part of a family, both at home and in an extended family with my congregants and followers. I have been married for nearly forty years to Robin Asher, and have two great children, my son Philip Asher and daugter Ash Asher. We recently welcomed a beautiful gradnchild, Xavier to our family, the son of Philip and his beautiful wife Kristen.

When I am not being rabbi, I have tons of hobbies. I love fishing, photography, tinkering and riding old motorcycles, working in the yard and the garden. Life is a wonderful thing and I thank G-d for all of the blessings he has given me.

The Center for Jewish Discovery

We are a welcoming center for adult Jewish learning and community in Central Florida and beyond. We offer meaningful classes, open conversation, and spiritual exploration for Jews of all backgrounds.
Through local religious gatherings and events and online learning, we help people connect with Jewish wisdom, tradition, and each other — on their own path and at their own pace.
This nonprofit serves as the umbrella organization for my classes, lifecycle services, and community offerings. Whether you're stepping into Jewish learning for the first time, rediscovering your roots, or seeking a spiritual home, the Center welcomes you.

Our mission

  • Adult Jewish educational programs
  • Online and in-person learning
  • Community gatherings
  • Spiritual dialogue and discovery
  • Jewish holidays, Shabbat celebrations, and more!
The Center for Jewish Discovery of Central Florida

Where we meet for classes and religious services

We hold our classes and services in the local community.  Please contact Rabbi Asher for dates, times, and meeting place.