Liberal Judaism elects new chair

Simon Benscher has been unanimously elected as the new chair of Liberal Judaism. He was voted in by the movement’s communities, rabbis and officers at Liberal Judaism’s AGM on Tuesday.

Benscher, a former chair of Woodford Liberal Synagogue who has held many positions in the national movement – takes over from Lucian J Hudson. After a successful six-year term, Hudson will now serve as deputy chair – after also being unanimously elected to the position at the AGM.

Benscher said: “It is with some trepidation, but enormous pride, that I step into the chair of a movement that I’ve been a part of for five decades. My aims for the future of Liberal Judaism are simple in theory, and we will have to see how simple in practice.

Going back to our grassroots and getting hands on with all of our 41 communities is a big part of our way forward.” Hudson said: “I am thrilled to be handing over to Simon.

He will take Liberal Judaism to new heights, with his deep experience and understanding of our movement, his generosity of spirit and extraordinary dedication.”