Rabbi Elchonon Feldman

Rabbi Feldman, Senior Rabbi of Bushey United Synagogue in Hertfordshire, the UK's second-largest Orthodox Synagogue, was born in New York. His journey towards serving the Jewish community began with his move to Israel, where he engaged in teaching and pursued Rabbinic semicha ordination. Upon relocating to the United Kingdom, he initially served as the Rabbi of Belmont United Synagogue, where he had the privilege of being mentored by the late Rabbi Sacks zt’l, a pivotal influence in shaping his approach to leadership and community engagement.

In 2016, Rabbi Feldman assumed the role of Senior Rabbi at Bushey United Synagogue, marking a significant chapter in his commitment to fostering individual and community growth. His multifaceted role extends beyond the synagogue, as he represents the Chief Rabbi and the United Synagogue in interfaith matters and serves as Religious Principal of Hertsmere Jewish Primary School. Furthermore, Rabbi Feldman is the Director of Rabbinic mentorship under the United Synagogue’s Centre for Rabbinic Excellence, contributing to the development and recruitment of future leaders within the Jewish community.

In recognition of the broader spectrum of human well-being, Rabbi Feldman has expanded his qualifications to include certification as a Psychotherapist, trained at Regents University London. A qualified addiction counsellor, he is also a Chaplain at the West Hertfordshire Hospital trust. Rabbi Feldman's leadership extends beyond the Jewish community, with a strong emphasis on building bridges with other faith communities. An alumnus of the Senior Faith in Leadership program, he actively engages in interfaith initiatives at both local and national levels. As a facilitator of the Caravan of Peace – UK initiative, Rabbi Feldman is involved in a groundbreaking trialogue forum between the Abrahamic Faiths, collaborating with Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis and Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby to rebuild community cohesion.

Rabbi Feldman's personal life is woven into the fabric of his leadership journey. He is married to Maayan Rebbetzin Jacqueline Feldman, Chair of the RRUS, and together, they are parents to five wonderful children. This rich tapestry of experiences and commitments underscores Rabbi Feldman's dedication to personal development, leadership, and the interconnected growth of both the Jewish community and wider society.