More than 150 people were at Sutton Synagogue on Sunday to witness the induction of a minister who aims to increase membership at the Surrey congregation.
Birmingham-born and raised in Manchester, Rev Meir Lev has served a number of regional communities as minister and chazan and is studying for his semichah.
Mr Lev said he enjoyed a job that utilised his talents. "Serving as minister of a smaller community like Sutton, one is required to take on many roles including chazan, preacher, teacher and pastoral minister.
"With my training as chazan, I have been given the ability, as it were, to set the tone by making the services attractive and inspirational.
"My aim for the future will be to continue to bring in more of our members, to reach out to the less affiliated and show them the relevancy and beauty of our religion in today's world."
Sutton Synagogue chair Paul Sarfaty said: "Rev Lev brings to our community experience, learning and a passion for chazanut. He and his wife Carol have already endeared themselves to us."
During the induction ceremony - also attended by Sutton MP Paul Burstow - Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks presented members Tony Goldberg, Adele Stern and Dr Isidore Crown with honours recognising their service to the congregation.
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