Rabbi Yehuda Vorst was born in Amsterdam in 1970, son of Rabbi Ing. I. Vorst and Dobbe Vorst-Rubinson. He grew up in a warm family where involvement in the Jewish community and caring for others played a central role.

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He received his rabbinical training in yeshivot in France, Israel, and New York, where he obtained his semicha. During his studies, he gained practical experience in education and community work, including in Sydney, Minsk, and Moscow.

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After his marriage to Devorah Leah Bernstein in 1994, the young couple lived for a time in Bournemouth, UK, where Rabbi Vorst taught at a girls' seminary and they were involved in Jewish family and youth activities.

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They have lived in Rotterdam since 1998. From the beginning, they have been committed to the Jewish community with an open and accessible approach. Whether you are familiar with Jewish traditions, have just discovered your Jewishness, or are simply curious about what Judaism can mean for you, you will find space, attention, and respect with them.

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What characterizes Rabbi Vorst and his wife is their personal approach. Whether it's a lesson, a Shabbat meal, a conversation, or simply a listening ear: everyone is welcome.

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Their approach is rooted in the vision of Chabad: everyone counts, every step matters, and every Jew has a unique and valuable connection to their heritage.

 

The Vorst family has deep roots in the Jewish community of Rotterdam. Rabbi Yehuda Vorst's grandfather, Chief Rabbi Levie Vorst, moved from Amsterdam to Rotterdam in 1930 to become head of Jewish education for the Jewish Community. After the war, he took on the role of (Chief) Rabbi. Yehuda's father, Rabbi I. Vorst, was also closely associated with the Rotterdam community in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Rabbi Yehuda Vorst continues his work on this tradition of dedication, service and connection.