Rudi Leavor, Chair of Bradford Reform Synagogue, has passed away, and the Rt Revd Nick Baines, Bishop of Leeds, and the Rt Revd Toby Howarth, Bishop of Bradford, offer the below statement.
"We are deeply saddened by the death of our good friend and colleague, Rudi Leavor.
"Rudi was an inspirational man, deeply committed to both Holocaust education and interfaith relations.
"We particularly recall organising a delegation of faith leaders and young people from across the Diocese to visit the Holocaust Exhibition and Learning Centre, where we heard from Rudi about his family’s experiences in the Holocaust and discussed how we might learn from his story by standing together against division and hate.
"We also remember with gratitude the many times Rudi welcomed us so warmly into Bradford Reform synagogue in order to mark special occasions and festivals, such as Chanukah, together.
"We pray especially for his family and friends, and for members of the Jewish community across our Diocese as they mourn their loss.
"May his memory be a blessing."