Mitzvah Day 2017: Compassion and kindness inspires Chief Rabbi

Rabbi Mirvis said he was always inspired by “the energy, compassion and kindness with which thousands of people give of their time for countless worthy activities”.

The inter-generational theme brought families together to engage in good deeds.

For example, senior Liberal Judaism rabbi Danny Rich went to Jewish Care’s Vi and John Rubens home in Redbridge with wife Laura Lassman, their children and grandchild to entertain residents.

“Helping one’s neighbours was something I learned from my aunts, who took me volunteering as a child,” he explained. “I was delighted to be accompanied by my children and a grandchild in the hope that they in turn will continue to make the world a better place.”

Community relations were fostered by more than 100 interfaith projects.

Mitzvah Day founder Laura Marks noted: “In a divided world, where we are often fearful of our neighbours, events such as Mitzvah Day are more vital than ever in bringing people together and forming real and lasting friendships.”

She also spoke of the feelgood factor, highlighting research by Coventry University’s Centre for Trust, Peace and Social Relations, showing that almost three-quarters of participants met people from different faith or age groups they otherwise would not have encountered.

Eighty-six per cent of respondents felt Mitzvah Day was successful in bringing Jews and non-Jews together and 92 per cent said the day had made a positive impact on a charity or community.