Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis and Southend West MP Anna Firth joined a congregation of 300 at Southend and Westcliff Hebrew Congregation for the induction service of Rabbi Geoffrey Hyman, also celebrating his 40 years in the rabbinate.

SWHC president Michael Nelkin noted that the Hymans had joined the coastal community in 2019 but the pandemic had significantly delayed the induction. “After nearly four years, we are finally delighted to welcome the Chief Rabbi to our shul for this induction — rather than for Rabbi Geoffrey’s retirement!”

Remarking that age was no barrier to success, Rabbi Mirvis complimented SWHC on its choice of Rabbi Hyman, “a marriage made in heaven”.

Responding, the rabbi said his goal had been to make a difference, going on to acknowledge the warmth and generosity he had encountered at Southend and Westcliff.

The service was followed by a reception catered by the ladies’ guild.