A new Rabbi for SWESRS
The Council of South West Essex and Settlement Reform Synagogue (SWESRS) is delighted to announce the appointment of Rabbi Jordan Helfman as their new Rabbi. Rabbi Jordan is currently Associate Rabbi at Holy Blossom Temple in Toronto and will be joining SWESRS on 1st January 2022.
Rabbi Jordan was born in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in New Jersey. Whilst studying Political Theory and International Relations at Michigan State University his Jewish values and synagogue community became increasingly important to him. He began leading services and taking weekend trips to the Rabbinical school in Cincinatti.
On the advice of a mentor, Rabbi Jordan came to the UK to work as the Oved Chinuch (Educator) for Liberal Jewish Youth / Reform Zionist Youth. It was here he met his wife, Dr Jemma Helfman, with whom he has four children.
Rabbi Jordan commented, “I am very much looking forward to continuing my journey with the SWESRS community. I know there are so many stories of love and affection for the SWESRS community – some tied to the music and worship – others to the legacies of the Settlement Synagogue and SWESRS – and still others to the personal leadership of Rabbi Lisa and others that have come before me. I look forward to learning your stories, as we help draw each other closer to Progressive Judaism, the rhythms of Jewish life, and all of the sorrows and joys contained within a thriving Jewish community.”
