This week Woodford Forest US announced the appointment of Rabbi Yaakov Abrams as their Assistant Rabbi. The post was created in order to aid the Senior Rabbinic team, Rabbi and Rebbetzen Wollenberg, in their communal duties due to the growth of the community.
The appointment follows a successful four-day visit by Rabbi Abrams and his wife Rochel. After an eventful Shabbat where Rabbi Abrams gave a well-received sermon, Rabbi Abrams met with the youth, young marrieds and older members of the community.
Speaking about the announcement, Woodford Forest Chair Robin Jacobs said: “I’m delighted to welcome such an innovative Rabbi as Rabbi Abrams to the community. We look forward to working with him to continue to ensure that our members have a variety of spiritual and cultural initiatives to suit their needs.
David Collins, United Synagogue Director of Jewish Living, added: “The US is committed to building an innovative and engaging Rabbinate, which is emphasised by this appointment. We look forward to helping Rabbi Abrams grow and thrive at Woodford Forest US and his continued professional development. We wish him every success in this role”.
Rabbi Abrams, who currently lives in Canada, will begin his appointment in September shortly before the High Holy Days. This is his first position within the Rabbinate.