Rabbi leads festive prayers

Date:  21 December 2005

A local Rabbi led prayers at a meeting of the full Council at Three Rivers House last week in the run up to the festive holidays.

Full District Council meetings are led in prayer by a local religious representative. These have traditionally been members of the Christian community, although last week's prayers marked the second meeting in recent months to be led by local members of other major faiths.

Speaking after leading the prayers, Rabbi Goldstein of Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue, said:

"In 2005 the Jewish New Year coincided with Ramadan and our festival of Chanukah starts on Christmas day. These coincidences are a prayer for hope and peace between people of all religions."

Rabbi Goldstein's attendance at Council was warmly welcomed by Chairman of the Council, Harry Davies.

Councillor Davies said:

"It was a great pleasure to welcome Rabbi Goldstein to lead prayers for the community. I hope that the tradition of inviting representatives from local faith groups to Council will continue to be enriched by the inclusion of Jewish, Muslim and other faith traditions."

The October meeting's prayers were led by Ibrahim Usman, a young Muslim from the district.

Three Rivers District Council publishes a free list of places of worship located in the district which is available by telephoning the Council on 01923 776611.