Rabbi Michel Kossowsky, one of South Africa’s leading rabbis, and a prominent Zionist and communal leader, died here today at the age of 56. He was spiritual leader of Hamedrash Hagodel Congregation in Johannesburg.
Born in Poland, Rabbi Kossowsky came to South Africa in 1941. He was president of the South African Mizrachi, a founder and head of the Johannesburg Yeshiva College, and vice-president of the South African Zionist Federation. He was also a member of the executive of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies and of the Johannesburg Beth Din.
As the Year Turns, Support the Journalism You Trust. JTA covers the stories shaping Jewish life around the world — with the depth this moment calls for. As you reflect on the year ahead, consider a gift that keeps independent Jewish journalism strong.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
