The Liberal Synagogue Elstree (TLSE) has appointed Rabbi Anna Wolfson as its Director of Community Development.

Rabbi Anna will take up the newly-created role in November, as part of TLSE’s ambitious plans to become a leading community centre for Progressive Judaism in South Hertfordshire.

She will work alongside TLSE’s Rabbi Gershon Silins – as well the synagogue’s trustees, staff and volunteers – to further develop the thriving and vibrant community.

Her key responsibilities will be the development of TLSE to meet the needs of its current membership, and identifying and encouraging new members to join in a region that has Europe’s fastest-growing Jewish population.

Rabbi Anna moves to TLSE from Mosaic Jewish Community, where she has spent three years predominantly as Mosaic’s Development Rabbi, working across its Liberal, Reform and Masorti synagogues to increase membership and engagement. She previously served Norwich Liberal Synagogue and Beit Klal Yisrael.

TLSE chair Leigh Renak said: “Anna is one of Progressive Judaism’s most recognised young Rabbis and will bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to TLSE as we plan a truly exciting future.

“In her previous roles she created initiatives to engage congregants – including young adults their 20s-40s, new parents with young children, and families with teenagers. We are looking forward to her building on this in our community over the coming months and years.”

Rabbi Anna added: “Elstree and Borehamwood is a flourishing Jewish area. I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone at TLSE, and working with the team to help the community grow and thrive.”

Picture courtesy of Gary Italiaander.