December 2011

LJWB AGM 2011

Chief Rabbi Praises Leeds Jewish Welfare Board By John Fisher

 The Chief Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks paid tribute to the Jewish community in its support of the welfare of those people who need it most. Addressing over 300 people at the Leeds Jewish Welfare Board annual general meeting, held at the Marjorie and Arnold Ziff centre, Lord Sacks said it was not that hard to give financially when times are good; `it’s much harder when times are not good and that is when charity is really needed`, he said.

 He expressed his `immense admiration` for the work in which the Leeds Jewish Welfare Board is involved in.

 “One of the most important things you can have when you grow elderly and dependent is the support of a caring community and that makes all the difference.

 “I cannot think of anything better than to bring blessing to somebody else’s life.

 “To bring a blessing to others is the highest blessing we can achieve.”

 Referring to Jewish spirituality the LJWB is a living example of giving loving kindness, he said.

 He noted that Jewish spirituality is saying `let’s bring a little bit of heaven down to earth` and that is what Leeds Jewish Welfare Board does.

 “And certainly for those who benefit from its work, I don’t know whether it adds years to their life but I do know it adds life to their years.

 “People need care and receive it both in a wider, gracious and wonderfully supportive way and do so with the highest standards of professionalism.”

 The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Cllr Rev Alan Taylor welcomed the Chief Rabbi `on behalf of the city of Leeds` and paid tribute to the enormous work that the Jewish community does for its elderly and most vulnerable.

 “The work that takes place is remarkable. If every community in Leeds were to adopt the principles in the way you work, the city would be in a wonderful state.”

 The Lord Mayor praised the work that volunteers do in the city by giving their time and energy so freely. “Take that work away and the city would collapse.”

 President Edward Ziff said the economic climate has become more demanding and the fundraising function is `working flat out` but the Board still struggles to get financial support.

 “Our team is one of the most effective welfare organisations in the country and I’m told regularly how impressed people are with out work.

 “This is an immense source of pride to me and to the whole of the Jewish community.”