Rabbi Robyn Ashworth-Steen, Rabbi Kath Vardi and Rabbi Josh Levy
Menorah Synagogue marked a significant milestone with the induction of its new minister, Rabbi Kath Vardi.
A special induction service was led by Rabbi Josh Levy, Co-Lead of The Movement for Progressive Judaism, together with Rabbi Robyn Ashworth-Steen. There was a strong ‘Menorah’ theme with the congregation delighted at the participation of three former rabbis of the South Manchester community – Rabbi Jeffrey Newman, Rabbi Dr Michael Hilton and Rabbi Fabian Sborovsky.
Guests included Lord Mayor of Manchester Cllr Carmine Grimshaw, Principal of Leo Baeck Rabbinic College Rabbi Professor Deborah Kahn-Harris, Rabbi Lisa Barrett, and leaders of Progressive Jewish communities from across the North. They were joined by delegates from the Manchester Jewish Representative Council, the Board of Deputies of British Jews and some of Menorah’s interfaith friends.
Speaking during the service, Rabbi Kath said: “I am honoured to be able to serve this amazing community where my husband, Meir, and I have brought up our family.”
Rabbi Josh described the induction as “a joyful, vibrant occasion filled with warmth, music and community spirit,” adding, “Menorah is a truly special congregation, and in Rabbi Kath it has an inspiring, thoughtful and passionate leader for the next chapter of its life.”
Cathy Knowles, Chair of Menorah Synagogue, said: “It was great to have so many guests from the wider community to celebrate this occasion, and to listen to the moving service, with beautiful music from our choir and an inspiring address by Rabbi Kath.”
You can watch a video of the service below.
Rabbi Fabian Sborovsky. Rabbi Lisa Barrett, Rabbi Dr Michael Hilton, Rabbi Professor Deborah Kahn-Harris, Rabbi Kath Vardi, Rabbi Jeffrey Newman, Rabbi Robyn Ashworth-Steen and Rabbi Josh Levy at the service