No place like Rome for wives

THE CHALLENGE of fulfilling a rebbetzen’s duties while raising a family was among topics discussed during a leadership development trip to Rome by 40 rabbis’ wives from across the UK.

Their visit was organised through the Investing in Rebbetzens initiative led by Valerie Mirvis, wife of the Chief Rabbi.

Mrs Mirvis drew upon her experience of the world of clinical supervision to discuss the key elements of healthy working relationships. Mutual empathy and competence were crucial, she said.

Chaya Zimmerman of Gateshead addressed the group on the trials, tribulations and opportunities that emerge from being a role model. The final presentation was from Rachel Oser, who spoke about her life as rebbetzen of the Hong Kong community.

The programme also offered insight into Italian Jewry and its historical sites and concluded with a visit to the Roman Forum and the Colosseum.

Mrs Mirvis said Rome had been chosen “as a city with a proud Jewish tradition that endures to this day. I have great admiration for the hugely talented rebbetzens who have so impressed me with their enormous contribution to British Jewry.”