Induction of the new Rabbi of Guildford by the Chief Rabbi

Our Leader of the Council, Cllr Julia McShane, The Mayor of Guildford, Cllr Sallie Barker, MBE, and Joint Chief Executive for Guildford and Waverley Borough Councils, Pedro Wrobel, were among the civic guests at the induction of the new Rabbi of Guildford, Rabbi Alexander Goldberg on Sunday 3 November. The Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth, Ephraim Mirvis, presided over this historic occasion. It was the first induction of a Minister of Guildford since 1945 and the first rabbi of the town since 1274.

Rabbi Goldberg is also the Dean of Religious Life at the University of Surrey in Guildford, where he is the Jewish Chaplain to students and staff.

Leader of Guildford Borough Council, Cllr Julia McShane, said:

"It was an honour to attend the induction of Rabbi Alex. He's a remarkable faith leader, dedicated to serving the local Jewish community and fostering interfaith relations.

"We want to play our part in making Guildford a welcoming borough, where everyone feels valued. By working with brilliant community leaders like Rabbi Alex and promoting understanding and dialogue between all our communities, we hope everyone can be heard and supported."

Rabbi Alex has shared insights about his work and the Jewish festivals at council staff briefings. More recently he led a tour about Medieval Jewish history in Guildford for some of the Joint Leadership Team and Executive.