Two new rabbis installed at Sydney’s Emanuel Synagogue
Sydney’s two newest rabbis have been installed at a double ceremony at the Emanuel Synagogue.
Rabbi George Mordecai, Rabbi Sam Zwarenstein and Emanuel Synagogue president Grant McCorquodale Photo: Benjamin Ryan
Hundreds of community members joined online via the live stream on emanuelplus. They witnessed the historic moment for the Emanuel Synagogue congregation and the broader Australian Jewish community as not one but two exceptional rabbis joined a clergy of three other full-time rabbis, Senior Rabbi Jeffrey Kamins, Rabbi Jacqueline Ninio and Rabbi Rafi Kaiserblueth. With heartfelt speeches, rousing musical performances, and a healthy dose of humour, Rabbi George Mordecai and Rabbi Sam Zwarenstein were honoured and celebrated.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were Allegra Spender MP (Wentworth), Kellie Sloane MP (Vaucluse), Councillor Richard Shield (Mayor of Woollahra), and First Nations community leader Nicole Laupepa (Developer and Facilitator of Youth Off the Streets’ Walking Together project) who opened proceeding with an Acknowledgement of Country that spoke to her connection to the rabbis and their positive impact on the wider community.
Emanuel Synagogue President Grant McCorquodale delivered the keynote, underscoring the occasion’s significance and the synagogue’s commitment to spiritual growth and community engagement.
He said: “In supporting our community, the role of our rabbis has never been more critical and never been more appreciated by our members. They play an essential bridging role with many communities. Through their patience, wisdom, and clarity, they guide us toward a future filled with hope, celebration, inclusion, and new generations.”
Emanuel Synagogue’s Senior Rabbi, Jeffrey Kamins, said of Rabbi Mordecai, “His knowledge, erudition, and wisdom are deep and ecumenical. He has excelled in all he has done, with music being at the heart and soul of synagogue culture and his vision for spiritual leadership is informed by his sharp intellect and expansive teaching.”
He continued: “Rabbi Zwarenstein is a person on whom we can always depend, a man of integrity and responsibility, and we are grateful to install him as our rabbi today.”
The unity and collective strength of the Jewish community were on full display as Progressive rabbis from across NSW and Victoria joined Rabbi Mordecai and Rabbi Zwarenstein on stage, offering blessings to the entire congregation.
The installation ceremony was a joyous celebration of community and shared values. Rabbi Mordecai and Rabbi Zwarenstein delighted the audience with their musical talents, showcasing their deep connection to spirituality and tradition. In a touching moment, they called up to join them on stage the Emanuel Synagogue Executive Director, Kate Shkurko, who, earlier that week, had marked her 10th anniversary with the organisation.
The ceremony culminated in a surprise performance by Avishai Conyer—past Netzer Australia president, a close collaborator of Rabbi Mordecai on the Kol Nefesh Kabbalat Shabbat services and Emanuel Synagogue’s newly appointed Young Adult Engagement Coordinator—whose electrifying performance brought the entire sanctuary to its feet. Spontaneously, congregants flooded the stage, joining in song and dance, embodying the spirit of celebration and unity that defines Emanuel Synagogue.
Following the official proceedings, a lively function catered by Nora’s Kitchen facilitated further fellowship among attendees, solidifying the bonds of community and shared purpose.
“It’s hard to remember a time without them, but it feels wonderful to welcome them into the Emanuel Synagogue fold officially,” remarked a congregant. “Their leadership will inspire us all to continue striving for spiritual growth, social justice, and community engagement.”
As Rabbi George Mordecai and Rabbi Sam Zwarenstein embark on this new chapter together, there is a sense of optimism and anticipation for the transformative impact they will undoubtedly have on Emanuel Synagogue and the broader Australian Jewish community.
