Rabbi to leave Cockfosters to take on leading West End role

There is already an emotional link between the couple and their new congregation as they married there in 1996.

Announcing the news to CNSS members, shul chair Ivan Cohen said he did so with mixed emotions

"Not only will CNSS be losing an enthusiastic, hard-working and charismatic rabbinic couple. I shall be saying ‘au revoir’ to a long-time friend in Rabbi Epstein. We hope to be able to give them a proper send-off nearer the time, coronavirus-willing."

The shul was being advised on the way forward by the United Synagogue and, at its next council meeting, would convene a search committee to find a new rabbinic couple.

"Thrilled" to have recruited the Epsteins, Western Marble Arch president Michael Ziff added: "Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, we received many applications from UK and international candidates for this prestigious role. The Epsteins stood out in a crowded field. We cannot wait to welcome them to our community and wish them every happiness and success at Western Marble Arch.

“Of course, we will be sad to say goodbye to our beloved rabbinic couple. Rabbi Lionel and Natalie Rosenfeld have worked incredibly hard for the community, brought us great kudos and fulfilled the synagogue’s spiritual and pastoral needs. Western Marble Arch has also benefited from Rabbi Lionel’s chazanut and interpretation of the prayers and Torah readings, which have made our synagogue services internationally renowned. Natalie’s celebrated Shabbat table hospitality has been appreciated over the years by members and visitors alike. We wish them hatzlacha in their future endeavours and know they will quickly feel back at home in Israel. They will always be welcome here."