New Egypt Group recognizes a distinguished New York religious leader whose decades of service have brought communities together

Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, one of New York City’s most respected religious and interfaith leaders, was among the distinguished guests attending the Egyptian Day celebration in New York.

His presence represented more than participation in a cultural event. It reflected a longstanding commitment to strengthening relationships among New York’s religious, ethnic and immigrant communities.

Rabbi Potasnik serves as Executive Vice President of the New York Board of Rabbis and as Rabbi Emeritus of Congregation Mount Sinai in Brooklyn Heights. He is widely recognized for advancing dialogue and cooperation among people of different faiths while responding with compassion during some of New York’s most difficult moments.

In October 2025, Rabbi Potasnik became the first Chief Chaplain in the FDNY’s 160-year history. The historic appointment followed more than 25 years of service as an FDNY chaplain. Throughout those years, he supported firefighters and their families, including many who experienced devastating loss following the September 11 attacks. The FDNY formally announced his appointment on October 27, 2025.

His connection with the Egyptian community has also been demonstrated during moments of tragedy.

Following the terrorist attack at Al-Rawdah Mosque in North Sinai in November 2017, Rabbi Potasnik joined Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Reverend Dr. A.R. Bernard and other prominent religious and civic leaders at the Egyptian Consulate in New York. They offered condolences to the victims’ families and stood in solidarity with the Egyptian people against terrorism and violence. The interfaith visit was reported by Egypt Today following the attack.

That moment of solidarity reflected a principle that has defined Rabbi Potasnik’s public life: communities must stand together not only during celebrations, but also during times of sorrow and uncertainty.

Beyond his religious leadership, Rabbi Potasnik has become a familiar voice across New York’s civic and media landscape. He co-hosts “The Rev and The Rabbi” with Reverend Dr. A.R. Bernard on 770 WABC and serves as a religious commentator for 1010 WINS.

He was ordained by Yeshiva University in 1972 and later received his law degree from Brooklyn Law School. His education, spiritual leadership and decades of public service have enabled him to address complex social issues with wisdom, humanity and respect. The New York Board of Rabbis highlights his extensive religious and civic service.

Welcoming leaders such as Rabbi Potasnik to Egyptian Day sends an important message about the Egyptian-American community’s openness, confidence and commitment to building meaningful relationships across cultural and religious boundaries.

Cultural celebrations provide an opportunity not only to honor heritage, but also to create new friendships and strengthen the values shared by all communities: dignity, compassion, peace and mutual respect.

New Egypt Group proudly recognizes Rabbi Joseph Potasnik for his extraordinary service and for his enduring commitment to building bridges across faiths. His presence at Egyptian Day was a meaningful reminder that diversity becomes a source of strength when communities choose cooperation over division and friendship over fear.