Rabbi Dr Yoni and Rebbetzin Elisheva Birnbaum have been formally appointed as the senior rabbinic couple of Finchley Synagogue after a visit to the United Synagogue congregation over the weekend.

In a vote on Sunday, members voted overwhelmingly — the JC understands almost unanimously -— to accept them.

The couple, who have six children, served the new Hadley Wood United community for 10 years before moving to the independent Toras Chaim in Hendon in 2020.

Rabbi Birnbaum is director of marriage authorisation at the Chief Rabbi’s Office and director of the London Beth Din’s conversion department.

Rabbi Dr Yoni and Rebbetzin Elisheva Birnbaum (Paul Lang)

Rebbetzin Birnbaum, who is an occupational therapist specialising in children with additional needs, will focus on pastoral care, youth and children and women’s initiatives at Kinloss.

The Birnbaums, who expect to take up their position in September, said they were “deeply honoured and delighted” at their election.

“While we are of course sad to leave the wonderful Toras Chaim community, which will always have a special place in our hearts, we look forward to this new opportunity with enthusiasm and great anticipation.

“With Hashem's help, we look forward to partnering with the Kinloss community in building an outstanding powerhouse of community life, filled with warmth, meaningful Torah values and above all a place every member can call home.”

Finchley-bound: the Birnbaums (photo: Paul Lang)

Darren Lewis and Jeremy Mindell, the congregation’s co-chairs said: “We are thrilled to welcome Rabbi and Rebbetzin Birnbaum to Kinloss. Their wealth of experience and dedication positions them ideally to guide our community into a flourishing future. Together, we look forward to embarking on a transformative journey marked by inspiration, education, and communal development.”