Ohev Sholom Congregation

New rabbi brings fresh vision here

Rappeport said he came to the Williamsport synagogue because he was impressed by the leadership and sincerity of the people.

"We interacted with quite a few synagogues around the world. We were very impressed by the way everything was handled here with the leadership. It was very organized, pleasant, warm, very forthcoming and we just got a very good vibe from the first time we came to visit," he said.

Another positive point that drew Rappeport to the congregation was that in the last 50 years, the Williamsport synagogue has been home to only two rabbis.

"You look at a synagogue and you see that in the last 15 years they have had six rabbis and you see a place that has only had two rabbis in 50 years. It shows you that they must be doing something right. That is something that is very reassuring when you are moving out with your entire family," Rappeport said.

Jeffrey Singer traveled to the area to celebrate the occasion in honor of his father, Rabbi Norman E. Singer, a former rabbi of the synagogue. According to Singer, his father was deeply involved in outreach and the surrounding community and would be proud that another rabbi with the same intentions has joined the ranks.

"I couldn't be more delighted. He is caring, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. I traveled here because I believe my father would be proud to know such an outstanding young man is standing at his pulpit," Singer said.

Ethel Drier, who has been with the congregation for more than 20 years, is excited to welcome the new rabbi.

"He brings a new vision. He is very interesting and intelligent. Rabbi Rappeport is very into outreach and brings old traditions along with a modern mind set," Drier said.

Not yet 27, Rappeport has lived in Australia, Israel, Canada, South Africa and the United States.

Rappeport, along with his wife and two children, joined the congregation three weeks ago. Rappeport replaced Rabbi Mac Portal, who moved to Israel following his retirement.

Rappeport knew as a young boy growing up in Australia that his life dream was to be a rabbi. His parents were active in their synagogue and supported Rappeport's devotion to his faith.

"From a very young age, I was always encouraged to participate in whatever was available for children. Starting with my age group in Australia, there was a children's choir that I participated in. I went out myself and participated in different things," Rappeport said.

By the time Rappeport attended his bar mitzvah, he was living in Israel. Following his bar mitzvah, Rappeport was allowed to participate in more activities that would broaden his interest in Judaism.

Rappeport hopes to join forces with the local religious community to tackle whatever issues may arise.

"I look forward to working with like-minded men and women of other religions to see what initiatives we can take on moral and ethical issues. These issues are the foundation of our nation, which is in so much need of reinforcement in today's post-modern society," Rappeport said.