Wimbledon Synagogue appoints new rabbi

Wimbledon Synagogue has appointed a new rabbi.

Rabbi Adrian Michael Schell, who served Johannesburg’s Bet David Synagogue for six years, will join the Reform congregation on 1 November.

“I am blessed beyond words for this incredible chance to open the next chapter in my rabbinic journey and Chayim’s and my life,” he said, referring to his husband, Dr.Chayim Schell Apacik.

Rabbi Schell, who was born in 1973 and raised in Frankfurt, began his career as a bookseller and went on to own a bookshop in Munich.

After a stint as sales and marketing manager for a leading publishing house in Munich, he switched careers and joined the rabbinate in 2013.

Rabbi Schell holds a master’s degree in Jewish Studies and bachelor’s degree in Jewish and Religious Studies.

Wimbledon Synagogue chair Rob Glaser described Rabbi Schell as an “ideal fit” for the shul. “He shares with us our traditional values and commitment to the community, I know he will be instrumental in guiding us forward,” Glaser said.

“I am delighted to be a part of our synagogue’s next journey with Rabbi Schell as our spiritual leader,” he added.