Rabbi Gershon Schaffel
Rabbi Gershon Eliezer Schaffel was raised and continues to live in Skokie with his family. He received his bachelor’s degree from the Hebrew Theological College and his Rabbinical Ordination from Rabbi Shlomo Morgenstern, former Dean of Hebrew Theological College. Rabbi Schaffel received Yadin Yadin semichah in the area of Jewish Business Law which qualifies him to serve as a judge in a Jewish Court (Bais Din) involving civil matters.
In addition to serving as the Rabbi of Young Israel of Skokie since 1995, Rabbi Schaffel teaches at several schools in the community and leads one of the most well attended Daf Yomi shiurim. Rabbi Schaffel also write articles for Business Weekly, Daf Yomi Digest, and Mishna Brurah Yomi which are distributed worldwide. He lectures on a variety of topics for many different community organizations.
To say that Rabbi Schaffel is beloved by the Young Israel family is a true understatement. His care and concern, guidance and advice are major elements in our ongoing vitality and growth. The atmosphere of Torah, chesed and positive social interaction he promotes is the main characteristic making our shul so very special. All are welcome because the Rav sees the best in each of us. Yet more importantly, he assists us in seeing it too, helping us achieve the maximum that we can, as individuals, as families and as a kehilla.
Blessed with a true Eishes Chayil, Brandy, Rabbi Schaffel would be the first to declare that she is the engine powering his drive. In the raising of their wonderful family, his teaching, her chesed work, and their efforts on behalf of Young Israel, they have set a standard to which every rabbinic family should aspire.
Simply stated, we at Young Israel are who we are because Rabbi Schaffel is who he is. May HaShem Yisborach bless the Schaffels as a source of inspiration to us all to continue to grow in Torah, Avoda and Gemilus Chassadim.