MANCHESTER — Temple Israel in Manchester has announced that Rabbi Eric Cohen recently started serving in his role as the temple's new rabbi. He is leading weekly Sabbath services and will be available in his office at the temple to meet with anyone who wishes to welcome him to the community

Cohen grew up in a modern Orthodox home and attended the Ramaz Yeshivah Day School in New York City. Prior to rabbinical school, he received his Ph.D. in near-eastern languages and civilizations from Yale University.  He spent nearly 15 years in the business sector as a pharmaceutical market research consultant. He also served as president of the Park Slope Jewish Center, an egalitarian conservative synagogue in Brooklyn, N.Y. 

Cohen received his rabbinic ordination from Hebrew College Rabbinical School in Boston. He taught ancient Egyptian history and literature at Fairleigh Dickinson University and has taught Jewish texts at Nehirim, Keshet and Eshel, organizations dedicated to the full inclusion of LGBT Jews in Jewish life.

“I chose Temple Israel for its haymish (homey) atmosphere, and because I was so impressed with the dedication of its members,” Cohen said.  “The welcome I received after my first services here was warm and heartfelt.  The growing vibrancy of its religious school is inspiring.  Temple Israel is firmly established in the community and is ready to contemplate its next steps.  The community has great potential.  I feel privileged to be part of that process, and I hope to contribute to its future growth.”