Rabbinic couple to retire after nearly 25 years, to join family in Israel

The long-standing Rabbinic couple at Chigwell and Hainault United Syangogue will stand down next year to retire to Israel.

Rabbi Baruch Davis and Nechama Davis plan to retire in July 2022, and to join family in Israel, after nearly 25 years at the synagogue.

The couple first met and married in Israel, having made aliyah from England and South Africa respectively, and say they “still feel very ideologically motivated to live in Eretz Yisrael.”

In a message to the shul’s congregation, Rabbi Davis said: “For us personally, being separated from my mother, four of our sons, our three daughters in law and all of our grandchildren has become increasingly difficult, as we are sure you can all imagine. 

“Covid has certainly made it harder, with travel between here and Israel so severely curtailed.”

He added: “It has been such an amazing “journey” for us, getting to know so many of you, and we will miss you all more than words can tell.”

A series of events will now be held so the couple can say goodbye “slowly,” while the United Synagogue will now move to recruit a new senior Rabbinic couple.

The US chief executive Steven Wilson said: “We are delighted for Rabbi and Rebbetzen Davis that they’re able to make aliya to be with their family but we know we’re losing a beloved rabbinic couple and respected colleagues. 

“Their impact, not just in their shul but the wider Essex area and the Jewish community at large, has been immense and they will be sorely missed. 

“And on a personal note, both Rabbi and Rebbetzen Davis have been a great support to me in my time as Chief Executive and I will miss their friendship and wise counsel.”