31 July 2017

Rabbi Aaron Goldstein is the new chair of Liberal Judaism’s Rabbinic Conference, after being unanimously voted into the role by his peers.

Aaron succeeds previous co-chairs Rabbis Alexandra Wright and Richard Jacobi, and takes on the prestigious position once held by his father, and current Liberal Judaism president, Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein.

Rabbinic Conference is where Liberal Judaism’s rabbis meet, on a monthly basis, to discuss pressing issues, learn from and support each other and forge religious and spiritual messages.

Aaron, senior rabbi at Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue, said: “I could not be more excited and energised to become chair of Rabbinic Conference. Following the incredible Day of Celebration – which reinforced for me my father’s words that ‘I am a Jew, a Liberal Jew’ – I am honoured that my colleagues have entrusted this role to me for the next two years.

“In partnership with the Board of National Officers, the Rabbinic Conference drives Liberal Judaism as a movement. In turn we are driven to serve our communities and my vision is that together we continually innovate so that Liberal Judaism is at the forefront of Anglo Jewry. We are Jews, Liberal Jews, and have a vital role to play in the growth of Judaism, a truly sacred task.”

He added: “I am grateful to have the support of the outgoing chairs, Rabbis Alexandra Wright and Richard Jacobi, who will continue as my vice chairs for the next year. Together, they have guided us through the last few years for which I thank them on behalf of all our colleagues.

“Liberal rabbis are an immensely loyal group of passionate and talented individuals that form a strong whole. From that group we will identify my successor so that they take over as vice chair in a year. This new model will ensure continuity into the future.”