Rabbi Danny Rich has been appointed as the Senior Rabbi of Southgate Progressive Synagogue (SPS).

A former Chief Executive of Liberal Judaism, Danny will lead the SPS rabbinic team after a rigorous selection process. He had previously been serving as the community’s interim rabbi.

Chair Mark Shaw said: “Danny made an immediate positive impact when he joined us on an interim basis, in November last year, and put himself forward as a candidate when we advertised the vacancy at the beginning of February.

“I am delighted that he is now joining us on a permanent basis and look forward to working with him in the future for the benefit and future prosperity of Southgate Progressive Synagogue.”

In his 15 years leading our movement, Danny achieved many notable successes including the opening of Liberal communities in areas where Judaism had previously not been able to reach, being at the forefront of the successful campaign to ensure equal marriage and fighting for the recognition of all Jews in the wider Jewish community and schooling system, including those of patrilineal descent. Before then he served as Rabbi of Kingston Liberal Synagogue, a position he held for 16 years.

Danny said: “I am humbled and thrilled to have the opportunity to play a role in making SPS an exemplar of creative, exciting and responsive Liberal Judaism.”

Picture: Rabbi Danny Rich at the Southgate Progressive Synagogue Coronation tea party