Radlett Reform rabbi Celia Surget will be leaving the Hertfordshire congregation at the end of May to take up a post with Congregation Albert in Albuquerque.

The New Mexico post will continue a globe-trotting life for the rabbi, who grew up in Geneva in a family with long Reform Judaism traditions.

She studied the history of religions, Hebrew and philosophy at the University of Geneva and finished her rabbinic studies at London’s Leo Baeck College. On graduating, she spent four years with the MJLF Mouvement Juif Liberal de France in Paris, working both as a congregational rabbi and as director of education.

Currently chair of the Assembly of Reform Rabbis and Cantors, she has spent ten years at Radlett Reform.

“It has been such a privilege to be part of the community’s journey,” Rabbi Surget said, “meeting the people who make the community and building strong friendships and connections.

“When I started, I was convinced I was best suited for an associate role. But the leadership of Rabbi Paul Freedman and the care and support I have received from the community have meant that I felt strong and empowered enough to apply for more senior roles and feel confident in my ability to succeed in this new position.”

In New Mexico, she would be joining a community “with a lot of history. Congregation Albert was established in 1897, which makes it the oldest religious community in the state. What an honour to be a part of that tradition.”

Radlett Reform will be seeking a successor for her role.