May 2026
Dear Shomrim,
I hope this message will find all of you and your loved ones well.
I was honored by the invitation to become the Jewish Chaplain of the NYPD, and further honored to be your spiritual leader. I pray that Hashem will guide my actions and that I will be worthy of your trust and the trust of the Police Department.
Following in the steps of Rabbi Kass is not an easy task. Rabbi Kass’ legacy is legendary, not only in the NYPD and the Shomrim community, but in the rabbinical community as well. The good news is that I know too well I am not replacing Rabbi Kass. Not only am I a different person, but the times and circumstances are different. Rabbi Kass entered the Police Department when he was 30 years old at the beginning of his rabbinical vocation and stayed for 60 years. I, on the other hand, am assuming this new challenge with more than 30 years of congregational experience, only wishing I was 30 years old.
I bring to the NYPD and the Shomrim community my ongoing experience as a chaplain in the US Army (National Guard), a background in counseling, and a knowledge of Spanish, Hebrew, and Yiddish, but my position as a and Yiddish. My position as a congregation rabbi is a full time one, and I hope and pray I will be able to balance wisely and effectively all my responsibilities.
My congregation is very proud of my new appointment and is ready to “share me” with you and the NYPD community, but this new and (hopefully) promising partnership will require patience and graciousness of spirit from everyone involved.
I look forward to getting to know all of you in the coming months. In addition to the planned activities in the Shomrin calendar, I look forward to working with the Shomrim leadership to create some new opportunities to interact with you, both socially and intellectually.
Last but not least, remember I am here for you. Write my phone number down <b>(718) 570-3032</b> and reach out if you believe I can make a difference.
May HaShem bless all of you and your loved ones with only good things. May we all hear good news. Be safe, and please, continue to keep us safe.
From My Heart,
Rabbi Manes Kogan