Rabbi Barry Schwartz has taken over as CEO of The Jewish Publication Society (JPS), the nation’s oldest publisher of biblical, scholarly and popular Jewish works in English. JPS, headquartered in Philadelphia, was established over 122 years ago. Schwartz recently left Cong. M’kor Shalom after serving as senior rabbi for 11 years.

“This is a unique opportunity at a unique time,” said Schwartz, who is looking forward to serving the Jewish community in a new way. He said that he has been active at JPS for a number of years, serving both on their Rabbinic Advisory Committee and their Editorial Committee.

“I’ve loved the world of Jewish scholarship,” said Schwartz, who has written three books and has a fourth, “Judaism’s Great Debates,” slated to be published in March by Behrman House. His textbook, “Jewish Heroes, Jewish Values,” is used in more than 300 religious schools nationwide. “This is a time of great transformation for the publishing industry, including Jewish publishing, as we move into the digital age,” said Schwartz. He added that he is looking forward to the daunting challenges awaiting him in his new position.

Schwartz said that he is pleased that his new position allows him to continue living in Southern New Jersey. He ended his tenure as senior rabbi of Cong. M’kor Shalom after the expiration of his contract at the end of June.

“I love Cong. M’kor Shalom and I love the Jewish community in Southern New Jersey. It is my home,” said Schwartz. He said that he plans to be active in both the Southern New Jersey and Philadelphia Jewish communities.