One of the Reform movement’s most prominent rabbis, Dr Jonathan Romain, has been appointed as the new convenor of its Beit Din.

Rabbi Romain will succeed Rabbi Jackie Tabick, who is retiring after 11 years in the post.

Rabbi Romain, the minister of Maidenhead Synagogue, has authored many books on the rabbinate and Progressive Judaism, as well as appearing frequently in the media.

His work with mixed-faith couples was pioneering and helped to move Reform to a more inclusive approach towards them.

The Beit Din oversees conversions and divorces, and Rabbi Romain will work closely with his Liberal counterpart Rabbi Mark Solomon as the two movements move towards unification under the umbrella of Progressive Judaism.

Rabbi Romain said he felt "lucky and honoured” to be following in the footsteps of Rabbi Tabick.

“I have long regarded our Beit Din as the jewel in the Reform crown: helpful, caring and embodying the principle of a Progressive approach to Jewish life and problems – providing solutions to those wishing to convert, going through a difficult divorce or facing other issues, such as having a Jewish heritage but not Jewish status.

“Judaism is not a missionary religion and believes there are many paths to God, and we must unlock the doors for all those who wish to become Jewish.”

In addition, he said, there were thousands of people in the UK with Jewish roots through a parent or grandparents, “who always wanted to explore those Jewish roots, and we must encourage them to do so”.

Rabbi Jonathan Romain

Anyone who was “wrestling with these or other situations” and sought “a caring rabbinic response” should approach their local Progressive rabbi, he said.

Rabbi Solomon welcomed Rabbi Romain’s appointment, saying: “Jonathan has long been one of the most forward-thinking rabbis in the Reform movement, especially in areas of personal status and family structures. I look forward to working with him in what will be a creative and exciting collaboration.”

Rabbi Josh Levy, joint chief executive of Progressive Judaism, said: “Jonathan’s experience as a congregational rabbi and as chair of the standing committee of the Beit Din mean that he is the perfect person to build on Jackie’s legacy at this important time for Reform and Progressive Judaism in this country.”