Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi (1924–2014) is considered by many to be the spiritual father of the Jewish Renewal movement. He was a professor of religion at the University of Manitoba and Temple University for more than 30 years, founded and directed the Spiritual Eldering Project and the P'nai Or Religious Fellowship in Philadelphia, and was highly active in fostering ecumenical dialogue with leading Buddhist teachers. His books include Gate to the Heart, The Geologist of the Soul, and more.