Rosh Hashanah greetings shared with our Jewish friends by our six bishops

To mark the Jewish celebration of Rosh Hashanah, our six bishops have sent their greetings in a message to our Jewish friends.

The marking of their religious New Year involves the traditional eating of treats such as apples dipped in honey, hoping to prompt a sweet and happy year ahead.

The message can be read below.

"To Jewish friends, colleagues and communities on the occasion of Rosh Hashanah.

"We send warm greetings and heartfelt good wishes as you celebrate Rosh Hashanah.

"New Year provides us with an opportunity both to reflect on the year that has passed, and to look forward to the year ahead.

"The past year has seen huge challenges facing our Jewish communities.

"We are deeply aware of the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic for so many.

"We were profoundly saddened by the death of our dear friend Rudi Leavor, Chair of the Bradford Synagogue, an inspirational man, deeply committed to both Holocaust education and interfaith relations.

"Please be assured of our ongoing prayers, for his family and friends, and for members of the Jewish community across our Diocese. 

"Our thoughts also extend to Jewish communities around the world.

"We remain deeply concerned by the documented rise in antisemitism, and we pray with you in the continuing struggle for peace in the Holy Land. 

"Looking to the year ahead we believe there is much to hope and to work for.

"We look forward to strengthening our deep bonds of friendship and to fostering dialogue for the good of all.

"In November we will be coming together to mark ‘Mitzvah Day’, guided by our shared values of justice and loving-kindness.

"We will also once again be welcoming the contribution of the national Council for Christians and Jews towards training both our ordinands and ordained clergy in building good relations between our two faiths.

"We wish you a very happy new year, and may this Rosh Hashanah and these High Holy Days be a time of blessing for you all,

"Shanah Tovah!"

The Rt Revd Nick Baines, Bishop of Leeds

The Rt Revd Jonathan Gibbs, Bishop of Huddersfield

The Rt Revd Helen-Ann Hartley, Bishop of Ripon

The Rt Revd Toby Howarth, Bishop of Leeds 

The Rt Revd Tony Robinson, Bishop of Wakefield

The Rt Revd Paul Slater, Bishop of Kirkstall
 

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