Former St. Louisan Rabbi Scott Shafrin is stepping into an exciting new chapter as he joins the clergy of Adath Israel Congregation in Cincinnati, where he will assume the role of senior rabbi in June 2025. This transition marks a significant milestone in his career, following his impactful tenure as executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of St. Louis.
A legacy of leadership and social justice
Since joining JCRC in July 2023, Shafrin has been a passionate advocate for interfaith collaboration, social justice, and Jewish communal engagement. Initially serving as deputy director and the Lee & Milford Bohm Director of Social Justice, he quickly rose to executive director in April 2024. Under his leadership, JCRC deepened its educational initiatives on Israel and respectful discourse, expanded community partnerships, and strengthened its role in St. Louis’ interfaith and Jewish communities.
JCRC board chair Joel Iskiwitch praised Shafrin’s contributions, stating, “Rabbi Scott has left an indelible mark in the time he has been with us. His leadership, passion, and vision for social justice work have been instrumental in forging new connections and strengthening existing ones.”
Recognized for impact and advocacy
Shafrin has been an active voice in St. Louis’ interfaith community, serving on the Interfaith Partnership’s Clergy Cabinet and as treasurer of the St. Louis Rabbinic and Cantorial Society. His dedication was recently recognized with the LEADSTL (formerly Cultural Leadership) ‘Troublemaker of the Best Kind’ award for his commitment to bridging communities and fostering meaningful dialogue.
Reflecting on his tenure at JCRC, Shafrin expressed deep gratitude: “It’s been an honor to be part of the JCRC family, where I’ve been able to live out my passion for creating partnerships between people of many faiths as well as within the Jewish community. I feel blessed to have been part of this community, filled with incredible leaders and volunteers working to build a secure and growing Jewish presence in St. Louis.”
A smooth transition ahead
With Shafrin’s departure set for January 2025, JCRC has begun the search for a successor. Vice chair David Rosenstock is leading a committee to ensure a seamless leadership transition, seeking a candidate who shares Shafrin’s commitment to social justice and interfaith engagement.
New beginnings in Cincinnati
As Shafrin prepares for his new role at Adath Israel Congregation, he looks forward to continuing his rabbinic journey, fostering spiritual growth, and strengthening Jewish life in Cincinnati. His wife, Rabbi Jessica Shafrin, will also be making an impact in the city, serving as the director of mission at the Jewish Hospital of Cincinnati.
While St. Louis bids farewell to a dedicated leader, Shafrin’s influence will endure, both through the initiatives he championed and the relationships he nurtured.
