Rabbi Hershi and Rebbetzen Zelda Vogel are a dynamic duo who have led the community at Ealing Synagogue for over 27 years. They both grew up in Chabad communities where pastoral care, outreach and community life were central to their lives. They saw their parents dedicate themselves to helping others through education and communal service and it was a natural path for them to follow.
After spending time living in New York at the beginning of their marriage, Rabbi Hershi considered a career as a shochet, ritually slaughtering chickens for food, but decided it was not his calling. He and Rebbetzen Zelda returned to the UK when Rabbi Hershi studied Practical Rabbinics for a year at what was then Jews College (Now LSJS) after which they accepted their first rabbinic post in South London, where they spent three years helping to revitalise a struggling community before joining Ealing as the Senior Rabbinic team.
“Every achievement is a highlight for us, from births, Bar & Bat mitzvahs and weddings, to moments of learning, healing, and communal care. As a rabbinic couple, we see these milestones as the true achievements of a community, lives enriched, relationships deepened, and sacred moments shared, bringing true joy to people’s lives”.
This philosophy of celebrating shared moments and creating inclusive Jewish experiences is reflected in the initiatives they lead beyond the synagogue walls.
One such moment was a public Menorah lighting outside Ealing Town Hall. Rabbi Hershi and Rebbetzen Zelda purchased a seven foot menorah and despite it being the last night of Chanukah and pouring with rain, the turnout was extraordinary. They were expecting around 50 people, more than 130 attended. The event brought together many members of the local Jewish community as well as the wider local community. It was an inspirational and uplifting experience for all.
In addition to their rabbinic duties the pair both juggle other roles, Rebbetzen Zelda is in full-time employment in education and Rabbi Hershi, a trained psychotherapist. They both serve voluntarily as chaplains to Heathrow Airport, where they support travellers, airline staff and detainees, often meeting people at vulnerable moments and offering compassion, reassurance and hope. In addition, Rabbi Hirsh is also the Chaplain of the two detention centres linked with the airport: Harmonsworth & Collenbrook.
Rabbi Heshi believes that time on the pulpit is not simply about delivering sermons, but about creating genuine engagement. “Being on the pulpit is an opportunity to engage and encourage people,” he says. Since completing his psychotherapy training two years ago, this engagement has taken on new depth. His listening, language and presence have evolved, allowing him to connect with the community in a more nuanced and sensitive way.
“One of our community’s defining strengths is its shared ownership of Jewish life. Members regularly take turns delivering D’var Torah, including women, reflecting an inclusive culture that values participation and learning. This sense of involvement and strong lay leadership is central to the community’s strength and resilience.”
At home, Rabbi Hershi and Rebbetzen Zelda are blessed with a large and loving family: seven children and thirteen grandchildren. Family, hospitality and shared meals are central to their lives and their Shabbat table has long been a place of lively conversation, reflection and welcome – an extension of the values they live by in the community.
After 27 years, Ealing Synagogue continues to flourish under their guidance. Friendly, traditional and deeply caring, the community draws its strength from connection and participation. Rabbi Hershi and Rebbetzen Zelda Vogel lead by encouraging, creating a synagogue where people feel uplifted, engaged and truly at home.
4 February 2026