Rabbi Shmuli Sagal takes up his new role as minister of Shomrei Hadath Synagogue this weekend after three years as spiritual leader of Sutton United Synagogue.

Arieh Gilbert, president of the West Hampstead-based Federation congregation, said Rabbi Sagal would bring  “a unique combination of secular and religious training alongside his relevant rabbinical experience.

“His infectious enthusiasm, passion for modern Orthodoxy and inspirational speaking skills will make an immediate impact.”

Rabbi Sagal is also the director of operations at The Evening Beis, an educational programme in North-West London aimed at university students and young professionals.

His wife Tali is a medical student at Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry and they have a two-year-old daughter, Layla.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Shomrei, a community that has long had a reputation as a leading proponent of modern Orthodoxy in the UK with a deep commitment to Torah and engagement with the world,” the rabbi said. 

“It is an exciting new stage in my career.”

Shomrei Hadath has around 60 member families and more than 30 single members.

Membership has been growing as more young professionals move to the area.