Alvin Kass, NYPD’s Jewish chief chaplain who served for nearly 60 years, dies at 89

New York leaders mourn the death of the NYPD’s chief Jewish chaplain, Rabbi Alvin Kass, at the age of 89.

Kass joined the police in 1966 at age 30, becoming the youngest chaplain in the NYPD’s history, says NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who is Jewish.

Kass was a US Air Force veteran and Columbia University graduate, and provided counseling to the families of the 23 police officers who were killed in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack, Tisch says.

“We know he will still be watching over the city and the department he loved. His loss is immeasurable,” Tisch says. “May his memory be a blessing.”

I am deeply saddened to share the passing of Rabbi Alvin Kass, our Chief Chaplain, and one of the longest-serving members of the New York City Police Department.

Rabbi Kass joined the NYPD in 1966, at the age of 30, becoming the youngest chaplain in the Department’s history.… pic.twitter.com/IrjluT42tl

— Jessica S. Tisch (@NYPDPC) October 29, 2025

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who had a police career before entering politics, says Kass “was a pillar of strength and comfort for the NYPD.”

“He consoled us through the monumental tragedies and personal hardships. Whenever you needed solace or help, he was there for you,” Adams says.

Jewish state Assemblyman Kalman Yeger says that Kass led a congregation in his Brooklyn neighborhood.

“One of the kindest people you could ever meet, he gave his entire life to serving God, community and the city he loved,” Yeger says.

Condolences also pour in from the city’s fire department, former governor and mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo, New York City Speaker Adrienne Adams, state attorney general Letitia James, and national and local lawmakers.