Rabbi Nancy Morris will return to the UK in late summer to become South West Essex and Settlement Reform Synagogue’s new minister.

She has been back in her native Canada serving a Calgary congregation following her time with Glasgow Reform Synagogue, where she was Scotland’s first female rabbi.

Members of the Newbury Park-based community voted overwhelmingly in favour of the appointment at a recent EGM. The shul has been without a permanent minister since the departure of Rabbi Michael Pertz in October.

Rabbi Morris hoped “my experience, pioneering spirit and enthusiasm for modern Reform Judaism will be infectious in my new community. I can’t wait to get started.”

It is anticipated that her induction will be combined with the rededication of the shul’s prayer hall, which is being refurbished after suffering extensive storm damage.