The induction of Rabbi Moshe Chaim Lister, together with Rebbetzen Miri Lister, by the Chief Rabbi at Barnet United Synagogue
Over 200 congregants, made up of members, guests, the Mayor of Barnet, Dan Tomlinson MP, Saul Taylor, President of the US, other local dignitaries and neighbouring Rabbis, packed out Barnet Shul on Sunday afternoon for the induction of Rabbi Moshe Chaim Lister, together with Rebbetzen Miri Lister.
Rabbi Moshe Chaim & Rebbetzen Miri have been in post since January 2025 and as Chair of Barnet Shul, Tony Cohen, remarked in his opening address: “the huge turnout was a wonderful reflection of the high esteem in which the rabbinic couple are held by our membership and the wider community”.
Gabbie Greenberg, a member of the selection committee that was drawn from a wide range of ages, and levels of observance, from across the community, spoke warmly of how at interview it was apparent very early on that there was a great connection between the Listers and the ethos of what makes Barnet such a special Shul. And this has been more than born out during their first year in post.
Previous Rabbi of Barnet Shul, Rabbi Barry Lerer, now of Central Shul, read the Prayer for the King and The State of Israel. Rabbi Elchonon Feldman of Bushey Shul, Rabbi Lister’s previous senior Rabbi and mentor, read the Prayer for the Community. Rabbi Lister read Ana Avda.
In his address The Chief Rabbi said of Rabbi Lister and Rebbetzen Miri, “This is a Marriage made in heaven of rabbinic couple and a very special community. Rabbi Moshe Chaim and Rebbetzen Miri are one of the most outstanding rabbinical couples in the United Synagogue.”
In his reply Rabbi Lister said: “Barnet Shul’s strength and success is built on quiet acts of self-sacrifice, where no one gets left behind.” He reflected on their successes since starting in the position, and very much appreciated the faith placed in them by the kehilah (community). Their vision for the future is to make shul “a place for everyone, and contain something for everyone, regardless of their age or religious level.” Finally Rabbi Lister paid tribute to Rebbetzen Miri for all her hard work and for being a tower of strength.
The event was chaired by Jonathan Behar, and there was entertainment form the Barnet Shul Children’s Choir led by Mark Creeger, and accompanied on the piano by Jason Silver.
Following the service there was a cocktail bar and afternoon tea.
