New rabbi welcomed at Mizrachi
Sydney’s The Bondi Mizrachi Synagogue has welcomed its new Rabbi, Rav Shua Solomon and his wife Michal.
Attending the inauguration were Rabbanim, Australian political leaders, heads of communal organisations and members of the shul and wider Jewish community.
Michael Goldberg, Jack Pincewski, Rabbi Shua Solomon, Michal Solomon and Gabrielle Upton
Delivering the keynote address to the 250 guests present was Rabbi Marcus Solomon, a leading Rabbi, barrister and communal figure in Perth and the proud father of the new Rabbi. Rabbi Solomon senior described the incredible warmth, energy and positivity that radiates in the Shul. He also discussed the difficult, current climate facing Rabbis in Australia and asked the Bondi Mizrachi community to get on board for what should be an incredible journey for the Shul. He added that his son’s humility and passion for Jewish learning, together with his modern orthodox and Zionist outlook was an ideal match for the Bondi Mizrachi community.
Mizrachi’s President, Michael Goldberg strongly articulated the ethos of the shul saying, “the modern State of Israel – like the ancient land of Israel – must be known as the home for every single Jewish man and woman regardless of his or her current level of religious observance or political or social outlook and our Shul needs to ensure this holds just as true. Our Shul is a where everyone feels at home and is welcomed with open arms”.
He added how thrilled the community is to welcome Rav Shua and his wife Michal, and that he is sure they will continue the path of attracting more young families, both religious and non-religious into the community”.
Vice President, Eran Brill, President, Michael Goldberg, Rabbi Shua Solomon, Rabbi Marcus Solomon (Rabbi’s dad), honorary secretary, Michael Balkin and treasurer, Nathan Smith
The Attorney General for NSW, the Hon Gabrielle Upton, MLA was delighted to accept Mizrachi’s invitation to attend the inauguration. Ms Upton spoke positively of the activities of the Jewish community in the Eastern Suburbs saying, “On behalf of the NSW government, I wish to extend our heartfelt congratulations on the Rabbi’s appointment to this wonderful Synagogue”. The Honourable Malcolm Turnbull Minister for Telecommunications and Member for Wentworth was represented by Mr Jack Pincewski who brought greetings from the Federal government.
Dean of Jewish Life and Learning at Moriah College, Rabbi Benji Levy, spoke of his long association with Rav Shua and Michal, and recalled fondly, even as a school student, Rav Shua’s dream was to
Rabbi Shua and Rebbetzin Michal Solomon
become a community Rabbi. Rabbi Levy spoke of the incredible energy, passion and love of Judaism that Rav Shua will bring to Moriah College where he has been employed as a part-time teacher.
Rav Shua himself spoke of the wonderful privilege it is for him and Michal to be part of Bondi Mizrachi and expressed his heartfelt thanks for the warmth, love and support they have received by the whole community. He also expressed his desire to continue the work of the Board to promote “a Shul with a modern orthodox Hashkafa; a Shule that welcomes Jews from all parts of the Jewish community, both religious and non–religious; a Shule that has a strong and unconditional connection to Israel and Zionism; and most importantly is friendly and accessible with a strong focus on family and children”.
The formalities concluded with a cocktail party in honour of Rabbi Shua and Michal Solomon.
For information about joining the Bondi Mizrachi Synagogue please contact us on 9130 5973 or by email at [email protected].
