Rabbi Alexandra Wright has been elected as the new President of Liberal Judaism.

The Senior Rabbi at The Liberal Jewish Synagogue (LJS) since 2004, she was the first woman to lead a major Jewish congregation in the UK.

For more than three decades, she has been an inspirational leader within Progressive Judaism – acclaimed for her work on inclusivity and education, as well as for a deep dedication to pastoral responsibilities.

Rabbi Charley Baginsky, CEO of Liberal Judaism, said: “Rabbi Alexandra Wright is without doubt a leading voice in Liberal Judaism; committed, passionate, wise and thoughtful.

“She will be an incredible President for Liberal Judaism, one who recognises that she is standing on the shoulders of giants, and also one that looks to bend down and stretch a hand out to others and lift them up.

“On a very personal note; I am one of those who as a woman rabbi looked to Alex for inspiration and encouragement. Not only did she always provide it, she found moments to reach out and provide care and tenderness as well.”

Others to hold the position of President, since the founding of Liberal Judaism 120 years ago, include Claude Montefiore, Lily Montagu, Rabbi John Rayner, Baroness Rabbi Julia Neuberger and outgoing President Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein.

Speaking after her election at the Liberal Judaism AGM, Rabbi Alexandra Wright said: “I feel very honoured to be elected President of Liberal Judaism, following in the footsteps of so many respected figures.

“My earliest memories are of being taken by my parents to the LJS for the High Holy Days and listening to the sonorous voice of then President, Rabbi Dr Leslie Edgar.

“I hope I can be a worthy successor to all my predecessors who did so much to disseminate our proud heritage and the significant message of Liberal Judaism – a Judaism that aspires to be sincere in its worship, incisive in its teaching and inclusive and caring in the work of its communities.”

Reflecting on his 10 years as President and his new role as a Vice President, Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein added: “I have been blessed to be involved for over 60 years in one role or another in Liberal Judaism.

“Now, as I go out from my decade as President, I look back with great satisfaction on all I have experienced. And I go out knowing that Liberal Judaism is in a good place, with an exciting future, and I go out knowing that my successor, Rabbi Alexandra Wright will add new blessings as we celebrate the 120th anniversary of our movement.”

Ann Kirk BEM, Bob Kirk BEM, Dr Edward Kessler MBE, Baroness Gillian Merron, Jane Greenfield, Josie Kinchin and Frank Maxwell were also all elected as Vice Presidents of Liberal Judaism at the AGM – reflecting their many years of dedication and service.