Celebrating Rabbi Ninio’s 25-year journey: a model of compassion
Emanuel Synagogue in Sydney yesterday honoured Rabbi Jacqueline Ninio’s 25 years of dedicated service with a heartwarming celebration.
Lynda Ben-Menashe, Rabbi Jonathon Karen-Black, Alexa Gilbert- Obrart, Sally Betts, Kellie Sloane, Rabbi Jacqi Ninio, Allegra Spender MP, Rabbi Jeffrey Kamins, Dr Marjorie O’Neil MP, Grant McQuorquodale, Walt and Julia Secord, Amanda Gordon, David Ossip, Kate Shkurko, Ro Knox, Richard Shields
The event, filled with moving tributes and heartfelt musical performances, highlighted her profound contributions and the indelible mark she has left on the congregation over the past quarter-century.
The synagogue’s senior rabbi, Jeffrey Kamins, welcomed the large audience gathered in the Synagogue’s Heritage Sanctuary, including many special guests such as Steve Kamper, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Allegra Spender MP, Member for Wentworth, Dr. Marjorie O’Neill, Member for Coogee, Kelly Sloane, Member for Vaucluse, David Ossip, President of the New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies as well as several local mayors and councillors. He also greeted the many rabbis present, including some who had travelled from interstate to attend the event.
In a heartfelt speech, Rabbi Kamins reflected on Rabbi Ninio’s journey as Emanuel’s first female rabbi, acknowledging the challenges she faced. He praised her unwavering commitment to social justice and tireless advocacy, especially her early, courageous support for marriage equality, a stance she upheld even when it was “barely on the radar and widely opposed by other religious communities.” Rabbi Kamins reflected on Rabbi Ninio’s journey as Australia’s first female rabbi, acknowledging the challenges she faced. He praised her unwavering commitment to social justice and tireless advocacy, especially her early, courageous support for marriage equality, a stance she upheld even when it was ‘barely on the radar and widely opposed by other religious communities.” In a historic moment for equality and inclusion, Rabbi Ninio, alongside Rabbi Kamins, officiated at Australia’s first religious same-sex marriage in May 2018.
Rabbi Kamins further commended Ninio’s leadership in social justice, noting her nearly 20-year tenure as chair of the synagogue’s social justice committee. Under her guidance, the synagogue established programs to support underprivileged children, many of whom are Indigenous, and provided meals to the hungry and homeless through initiatives like the Matthew Talbot Hostel and the Asylum Seekers’ Centre.
“She also established, with a handful of others, the Jewish sustainability initiative, working for environmental sustainability on a number of fronts… and at the same time, she has forged the path for social inclusion through her participation in multi-faith and multicultural dialogue.”
The event also featured a surprise performance by Ninio’s daughter, Willow, who sang a beautiful (and funny) song with the Shabbat Live band, paying tribute to her mother’s journey and contributions.
In his tribute, synagogue president Grant McCorquodale also praised Rabbi Ninio and made special mention of her recent honour of the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her outstanding service to the Jewish community and interfaith organizations.
In a heartfelt and emotional response, Rabbi Ninio reflected on the profound impact the congregation has had on her personal and professional journey. She expressed deep gratitude to her family and friends who have been a constant source of support, love, and laughter. “You’ve been with me, and I’ve been honoured and privileged to walk with you,” she said, recounting the community’s presence during difficult times.
Rabbi Ninio’s enduring impact on the synagogue and wider community continues to inspire, reaffirming her role as a beacon of leadership and compassion.
