New rabbinic couple for Belmont Synagogue

Rabbi Zvi and Rebbetzen Rivky Cohen join Middlesex community after twenty years at Kingsbury United shul

Rabbi Zvi and Rivky Cohen have been appointed as the new rabbinic couple of Belmont Synagogue, with the chair of the shul saying that the community is “delighted” by the appointment.

The announcement for the Stanmore-based community follows the formal membership election which took place last weekend, in which the Cohens received an overwhelming majority of votes.

Rabbi Cohen is originally from Southgate and received his semicha while studying in Gateshead Yeshiva. He also holds a masters degree in Jewish education from LSJS/Middlesex University. Rivky is from Swansea and then Stamford Hill. Before marriage she worked for Kisharon.

The Cohens began their married life in Gateshead, soon moving to Ilford. For the last 21 years they have lived in Kingsbury, where Rabbi Cohen has served as the Rabbi. He has also taught in the local Shalom Noam Primary School, where he is the associate head of Jewish Studies. Rivky is involved in a number of communal activities, including hospital chaplaincy work.

Rabbi Cohen said “We look forward to joining the Belmont community along with our single children. Our married children and grandchildren look forward to visiting and meeting everyone soon.”

Anthony Broza, chair of Belmont United Synagogue, said: “We are delighted that the Cohens will be joining Belmont and extend hearty Mazel Tov wishes to them and their family. The Belmont community boasts an actively engaged and caring membership and we look forward to the Cohen’s playing an active role in the community and bringing their extensive experience to the new role.”

The head office team at Kingsbury United Synagogue added: “Rabbi and Rebbetzen Cohen came to Kingsbury over 20 years ago and a close bond was immediately formed with the kehilah. We are very sad that we will be losing them later this year, but we wish them much mazal and happiness for this next step in their journey.”

The couple will officially take up their new roles at Belmont towards the middle of August this year.