Highest number of new rabbis for more than a decade
Thursday, 11 June 2009
The Leo Baeck College is preparing to ordain eight new progressive rabbis on July 5th. This will be the largest group to graduate from the rabbinic training since 1996, signifying not only the strength and status of the College, but also the continued growth of progressive Judaism in the UK and Europe.All eight ordinands intend to serve congregations in the UK following ordination, with half joining Reform synagogues, bringing renewed energy, innovation and vision to their communities.
Reflecting changes in society and the evolving role of the rabbi, West London Synagogue has created a post for a young rabbi with special responsibility for Interfaith, a position which will be filled by Debbie Young-Somers after her ordination.
Following a three year interfaith internship at the synagogue, as the new Associate Rabbi, Ms Young-Somers’ time will be divided equally between general rabbinic duties and projects to further the interfaith and social justice aims of the community, in particular continuing partnerships with St. Ethelburga’s Centre for Reconciliation and the Central London Mosque. She will also be creating a youth leadership programme for teenagers with the main focus being on making “Peace by Piece”.
Ms Young-Somers commented: “My aim as a rabbi is to try to find out what excites people about their Judaism and to try to key into that. Interfaith dialogue is one way of doing that and of building positive Jewish identities; emphasising positive differences from others, not negative ones. I believe interfaith work is a core part of being a rabbi today. This new post shows great vision on the part of WLS. The synagogue has found that Jews are coming for interfaith events, who otherwise wouldn’t have found their way into Jewish life at all.”
The ordination will take place on Sunday 5th July at West London Synagogue and is expected to be attended by almost 700 people, reflecting the size of the graduating group. After they leave, the College will continue to support the graduates through their Rabbinic In-Service Training initiative and ongoing professional development programmes.
Head of the Movement for Reform Judaism, Rabbi Dr Tony Bayfield commented: “The Reform Movement continues to grow and respond to the needs of the community. We and our Liberal partners welcome as many talented young rabbis as the Leo Baeck College can train. We wish all eight ordinands rewarding and fulfilling careers.”
Further details on all ordinands available from Rabbi Dr Michael Shire at Leo Baeck College: tel: 020 8349 5600 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Find out more about LBC, including how to become a Friend of the College at the Leo Baeck College website.
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