Comments Off on The Wellbeing of LGBT+ Pupils: A Guide for Orthodox Jewish Schools
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Guide for Orthodox Jewish schools on the welfare of LGBT+ pupils.
For many months, together with KeshetUK, the Chief Rabbi has been working to produce this unique and essential guide.
Entitled “The Wellbeing of LGBT+ Pupils: A Guide for Orthodox Jewish Schools”, it is aimed at school leaders, and sets out how they should provide for the welfare of LGBT+ students.
Following the release of the document, the Chief Rabbi said, “This is a document which I believe is an extremely significant milestone and will have a real and lasting impact on reducing harm to LGBT+ Jews across the Orthodox Jewish community. Our children need to know that at school, at home and in the community, they will be loved and protected regardless of their sexuality or gender identity.”
Dalia Fleming, Executive Director of KeshetUK said, “KeshetUK is proud to have worked closely with Chief Rabbi Mirvis and Jewish LGBT+ people to create “The Wellbeing of LGBT+ Pupils: A Guide for Orthodox Jewish Schools”. KeshetUK now looks forward to working with with schools, Rabbis and educators across Jewish communities, supporting them to implement this guide so they can ensure their LGBT+ students reach their potential, free from homophobic, biphobic and transphobic bullying, discrimination and fear.”
This document is provided for guidance purposes only and should not be viewed as legal advice. It does not seek to provide an exhaustive review of all legal and regulatory issues related to the subject matter covered in the guidance. Please obtain your own legal advice. Should there be a conflict between the content of this guidance and any legal and regulatory requirements, the legal and regulatory requirements take precedence.
Comments Off on Cardiff celebrates Sukkot with Shwarma and Klezmer
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To celebrate Simchat Beit Hashoeva – the intermediate days of Sukkot on which we are encouraged to rejoice – Rabbi and Rebbetzen Rose brought music to their community by inviting a talented local Klezmer band to perform. Attendees enjoyed the shwarma and had the opportunity to build relationships across their community, all whilst fulfilling the mitzvot of Sukkot.
Evaluation from Rebbetzen Aidele Rose:
‘The event was highly successful in bringing in people from across the community spectrum, including members, students, Israelis, and others. It enabled all participants to fulfil the mitzvot of Sukkot, and to celebrate together in an atmosphere of joy and unity. It really brought the community together in a spirit of enthusiasm for being Jewish and celebrating the Jewish festivals together.’
Participant Feedback:
‘It was a wonderful celebration with a brilliant atmosphere, great food and high spirited community support.’
‘It was very enjoyable and good to see lots of people in the Succah.’
‘The Kletzmer music was magnificent.’
‘A very enjoyable, well-organised event – the food was excellent as was the entertainment.’
‘I have just moved to Cardiff for the year and wanted to meet the community. It was great, really good fun.’
Comments Off on A Twinned Shabbat: Birmingham & Bournemouth
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Plans are already in the works for another joint Shabbaton after a highly successful visit to Bournemouth by the Singers Hill (Birmingham Hebrew Congregation) community. The Birmingham contingent had plenty of opportunities to get to know their twin community, with the two groups joining for services, meals and study sessions. An immersive Shabbat experience away from the bustle of daily life allowed many to keep Shabbat who would not normally do so, and provided a relaxed space in which new friendships were formed.
Evaluation from Rabbi Yossi Jacobs:
‘The twinning of the two BHC’s went down really well and now Bournemouth are planning a return trip to visit us. To be away from Birmingham gave everyone the opportunity to strengthen friendships and relationships and community spirit. The sense of friendship and community spirit could be felt very strongly throughout the weekend.’
Participant Feedback:
‘A wonderful weekend where we were able to increase our sense of community. We got to know members of our own community better, plus gained an introduction to the very warm and welcoming Bournemouth community.’
‘A weekend away in the company of friends and our young and enthusiastic Rabbi and his lovely family who reach out to their congregants so that they can enjoy their religion at all levels.’
Comments Off on President of Yeshiva University and celebrated MK lead programme at Chief Rabbi’s Conference
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The Chief Rabbi welcomed 120 Rabbanim and Rebbetzens to his annual conference ahead of the Yamim Noraim (High Holy Days) last week, for two days of inspiring lectures and workshops led by leading halachic authorities from around the world.
Keynote speaker Rabbi Dr Ari Berman, the President of Yeshiva University delivered sessions on both days of the conference, taking as his subjects ‘The Ethos of the Ideal Community’ and ‘The Fragility of Life and the Meaning of Time’.
Another highlight of the programme was Rabbi Michael Melchior, a former MK and the President of Mosaica – The Middle East Religious Peace Initiative, who provided fascinating insights into his work at the frontline of interfaith engagement around the world. He emphasised the importance of being open to dialogue and cited positive developments in engagement that are rarely publicised.
This tied in with the Chief Rabbi’s opening lecture on the previous day, in which he drew on Torah sources and current affairs to address the tension that occurs between perception and reality, in Rabbinic leadership. Rabbis are the ‘guarantors of our mesorah (tradition)’ he said, and it therefore falls to them to safeguard this, even when it means ‘risking a negative perception’.
At the conference dinner, the Chief Rabbi was delighted to host the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, The Rt Hon James Brokenshire MP, as guest speaker. The Secretary of State spoke warmly of the Jewish community’s long-term contribution to the UK and reaffirmed this government’s commitment to putting grassroots, interfaith dialogue at the heart of efforts to achieve a more integrated Britain. He also praised plans for a new Holocaust memorial in London.
Other components of the two-day programme included breakout sessions for delegates to discuss mental health issues and communal conflict, as well as insights from Israeli Ambassador Mark Regev on Israel’s recent successes and from David Delew, Chief Executive of the CST, on how Rabbis can partner with them to enhance security for the community. Dayan Ehrentreu, Head of the European Beth Din and Dayan Binstock, of the London Beth Din, also gave stirring presentations.
The Chief Rabbi said: ‘The conference provides us with a platform to emphasise priorities for the year ahead and crucially also serves as a confidential forum in which Rabbinic leaders are free to raise concerns and share ideas. A programme featuring truly exceptional scholars delivered on the conference’s core aim of supplying ample material and inspiration ahead of the High Holy Days.’
Comments Off on Chief Rabbi welcomes graduation of first cohort of Ma’ayanot
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On June 6th 2018, ten women graduated from the Chief Rabbi’s Ma’ayan Programme. The course is an in-depth programme, established to provide knowledgeable and approachable female educators, for Jewish communities across the UK.
The ceremony was hosted by the Chief Rabbi in his home. The graduates were joined by their families and close friends and each were presented with personalised certificates. Each one, uniquely designed by artist, Debbi Ifield.
The course educators were the Dayanim of the London Beth Din, the Chief Rabbi himself, pedagogic experts from around the world and academics from University College London’s Institute for Women’s Health.
The course consisted of a detailed curriculum covering the laws of Taharat Mishpacha (family purity) and women’s health issues. It also included training to become community educators at a high level.
Speaking after the graduation ceremony, the Chief Rabbi said:
“There are many women in our communities who are thirsting for greater knowledge and understanding of Torah. The graduation of our Ma’ayanot, who are of such outstanding quality, represents a watershed moment, raising the bar for women’s education and Torah observance in our community.”
Ma’ayan Jacqueline Feldman spoke on behalf of the graduates and said:
“This programme has educated us to support women of our communities in their lives and their learning. I want to thank the Chief Rabbi for his leadership and vision and for believing in the importance of having women who are trained in Halacha, Medical understanding and education at the heart of our communities.”
Comments Off on ‘Dreams of a Nation’ concert wows Bushey community
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A highly creative celebration of Israel’s 70th year came to Bushey United Synagogue in the form of Mizrachi UK’s touring concert, Dreams of a Nation. The story of Israel’s foundation was told in a unique combination of song, audio-visual presentation and commentary by Rabbi Andrew Shaw, Chief Executive of Mizrachi and Chazan Jonny Turgel, who brought a rousing musical aspect to the event. Attendees felt that the concert enhanced their connection with Israel in a novel way and built on other Israel-related programmes and experiences offered by the shul.
Evaluation from Sarah Zackheim, Organiser:
‘The evening was phenomenal and a true highlight of the calendar. There was a fabulous atmosphere and a real sense that lots of new people were seeing what Bushey was all about. It showed how vibrant our community is and how dedicated to education and Zionism we are. It was a great concept executed brilliantly and people really engaged with it. It was also a great finale to our ‘Visionaries of Modern Zionism’ course.’
Participant Feedback:
‘What a wonderful evening. Rabbi Shaw’s commentary was exceptional. The video was superb with amazing footage and beautiful filming. A night I will never forget. When can I see it again!!
‘This was one of the best events I have ever attended at Bushey Shul in over 35 years of membership. The production was phenomenal and was hugely uplifting. Rabbi Shaw and Johnny Turgel made a phenomenal team.’
‘This was an excellent evening. The history was beautifully narrated and sung by Jonny Turgel.’
‘What a fantastic, inspirational and uplifting evening!’
Comments Off on Valerie Mirvis leads UK Rebbetzens on third inspirational trip to Europe
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A delegation of UK Rebbetzens led by Valerie Mirvis have returned to their communities feeling inspired, energised and valued following an immersive two-day study and leadership trip to Vienna. The trip, which was the latest opportunity offered by Valerie Mirvis’ groundbreaking Investing in Rebbetzens series, was accompanied by Jewish historian Rabbi Aubrey Hersh.
Also joining the trip was renowned educator Yael Leibowitz, who led two in-depth Tanach workshops and received rave reviews from the Rebbetzens. Later on, the group visited the principal synagogue of Vienna, the Stadttempel, to hear from the city’s Chief Rabbi, Arie Folger, and the community Rabbi, Shlomo Hofmeister about contemporary Jewish life in the capital. Local tour guide Mally Shaked then gave a passionate presentation and tour of the shul.
Participants were also provided with insights into Vienna’s rich Jewish history with visits to the Jewish Museum and Museum Judenplatz, as well as tours of the surrounding areas and the city’s 1st and 2nd Districts, where much of Viennese Jewish life is focused today. In the nearby town of Eisensatdt, the group visited the ghetto area, synagogue and Jewish cemetery.
Reflecting on the trip, Valerie Mirvis said: ‘For the third time, it was my immense privilege and pleasure to lead a trip to Europe of Rebbetzens of such outstanding calibre whom we truly value. Our Investing in Rebbetzens programme has enhanced their leadership and teaching skills and has directly led to the creation of numerous innovative community projects.’
Rina Shindler, Rebbetzen of Richmond Synagogue, said: ‘This trip was a direct infusion of chizuk (strength), inspiration, and very much needed “time out”. It was a precious opportunity that we would have never otherwise had and a powerful rejuvenation. I am so very, very grateful for it.’
Comments Off on Fresh ideas top the agenda at Regional Community Leaders Conference 2018
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Planning for the future and embracing innovation were the key themes of the latest Regional Community Leaders Conference, staged by the Centre for Community Excellence department of the Office of the Chief Rabbi. The significant event took place at UHC Leeds with 19 communities in attendance.
This third meeting of lay leaders from across the United Hebrew Congregation communities served as an open forum for delegates to discuss issues and exchange ideas, as well as hear from senior leadership figures in the Jewish community.
A focused case study session involved seven delegates presenting on innovative or impactful projects in their communities, from Leicester’s application for lottery grants for a thriving schools education programme to Brighton & Hove’s ambitious plans for a new community complex. Ensuring the long-term engagement of youth and exploring alternative leadership models were also on the agenda.
The Chief Executive of the Jewish Leadership Council (JLC), Simon Johnson, explored the outlook for regional communities in terms of shifting demographics, the role of synagogues and the state of elderly care. He stressed the importance of maintaining the “vibrancy, vitality and sustainability of our communities” and outlined the JLC’s commitment to representing the Jewish community at a national level.
Before lunch, the Chief Rabbi spoke on the ability of every community to achieve ‘Community Excellence’, both by explaining the various services available through his Office and through presenting strategies for attracting attendees to synagogue. He focused on the importance of ‘entry points’, these being initial activities or volunteering opportunities that serve to connect people with their community.
The Manny Cussins Suite was filled with animated discussion after lunch, as delegates split off into groups for a break-out session that allowed them to learn from each other’s successes and work through common issues.
Mark Frazer, Director of Communications at the Office of the Chief Rabbi concluded the day by presenting on marketing strategies for the digital age. “More important than communicating what your community does is why your community does it,” he said, “and this is what must be conveyed in digital communications like the community newsletter.”
Adrian Fletcher, the President of Southport Hebrew Congregation and his wife Ghislaine said: “Thank you to the Office of the Chief Rabbi for this initiative, which keeps our small community connected to the wider UK Jewry – a most enlightening day.”
Comments Off on Chief Rabbi leads first ever European study trip for UK Rabbis
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The Chief Rabbi was delighted to lead the first ever two-day study trip for 41 UK Rabbis, who accompanied him through historic centres of Jewish life in France and Germany. The group visited sites where renowned Rabbis lived, learned and taught and also met with community leaders. Accompanied by experienced guide and historian, Rabbi Aubrey Hersh, the Rabbis visited Worms, Frankfurt, Strasbourg and Metz.
Beginning their tour in Worms, Germany, the group visited the graves of renowned scholars, including the Chavot Yair and the Maharam m’Rotenberg, before moving on to the nearby Rashi Shul and Museum, site of the reconstructed synagogue where the legendary 11th century Rabbi and Talmudic commentator, Rashi, studied. After a moving Mincha service in the synagogue where the Rokeach and Rav David Oppenheim also learned, the Rabbis travelled to Frankfurt to visit two further cemeteries where scholars including Rav Shimshon Refael Hirsch and Rav Natan Adler are buried.
Rabbis stand beside the grave of the Maharam m’Rotenberg in Worms cemetery
That evening the group journeyed south to Strasbourg. They attended the local congregation, Synagogue de la Paix, for Shacharit, before taking breakfast with Chief Rabbi Harold Weill of Strasbourg, his senior Rabbanim and youth representatives. Chief Rabbi Weill reflected on the current state of the local Jewish community, before Chief Rabbi Mirvis addressed the Rabbis.
Chief Rabbi Mirvis said: “Over these two days, we are walking in the footsteps of extraordinary spiritual leaders. It is now our opportunity to reflect the greatness of our past in our present and in our future.”
The Rabbis spent the remainder of the morning touring Jewish heritage in Strasbourg’s medieval centre, passing through areas of former Jewish residence and noting the pioneering contributions of Jewish figures like Johannes Guttenberg, inventor of the movable printing press. That afternoon they visited Bischheim to see the former residence of Rav David Sinzheim, President of Napoleon’s Sanhedrin (Jewish council), as well as an 18th century mikvah.
The group davens Shacharit in the main shul in Strasbourg, Synagogue de la Paix
The final calling points before departure from Luxembourg were the graves of the Shvut Yaakov and the Sha’agat Aryeh in Metz, followed by Mincha and a reception, hosted by Chief Rabbi Bruno Fiszon of Metz, in Synagogue Beth Yosseph.
Chief Rabbi Mirvis said: “This trip was an unparalleled opportunity for UK Rabbis to stand on the shoulders of outstanding spiritual leaders of the past, whose teachings and commitment to their communities continues to inform our rich Jewish tradition today. The memorable experiences that we have had together – exchanging fresh ideas, davening in historic Jewish centres and celebrating the continued vibrancy of local Jewish life – are ones that I hope will empower us all to return to our congregations feeling reinvigorated and inspired.”
Comments Off on South Hampstead’s Israel 70 Festival features something for everyone
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There was something for everyone at South Hampstead’s landmark Israel 70 Festival, as members and non-members alike were welcomed in to enjoy a varied programme that included a live book review, an Israeli dance workshop, a hands-on Israeli cooking demo and ruach-filled Yom Ha’atzmaut Party over a series of dates. By partnering up with nearby Sephardi school Naima JPS for the Yom Hazikaron Ceremony and Yom Ha’atzmaut Party, South Hampstead succeeded in forging an even stronger sense of local Jewish unity.
Evaluation from Assistant Rabbi Eli Levin, Organiser:
‘The series provided multi access points for members and non-members to connect with Israel and our community. It went beyond our regular standard of programming to reach a large number of people in a meaningful and special way. Participants gained knowledge, engaged in an emotional and uplifting Israel experience, were exposed to new ideas and felt the power of community.’
Participant Feedback:
‘All events were well organised and of a very high standard. The Yom Hazikaron & Yom Ha’atzmaut evening was extremely moving. Congratulation to all members of the shul and school team who put on an outstanding event.’
‘A wonderful way to celebrate Israel’s anniversary.’
‘Everything I attended was excellent, meaningful and engaging.’
