Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis has marked Commonwealth Day by encouraging Britain’s Jews “to reflect on what it is to be a part of a community of more than two billion people, which stretches across the world to more than 50 countries”.
Rabbi Mirvis issued a statement on Monday to coincide with a multi-faith service, held at Westminster Abbey and attended by Queen Elizabeth II, in celebration of the Commonwealth of Nations.
He said: “The great beauty of the Commonwealth is what lies at its heart – the notion that no matter the distance between people, we are all bound together by a shared set of values.
“Today we celebrate democracy, the rule of law, human rights and a sharp sense of responsibility for the well-being of one and all.
“We are the same but different, united but independent and all made in the image of God.”
Rabbi Mirvis’s comments echoed Queen Elizabeth’s pre-recorded message, which was delivered before the Westminster Abbey service, in which she highlighted the importance of community and celebrating differences.
“Each of us has cause to celebrate the sense of belonging expressed in our 2016 theme: an inclusive Commonwealth,” she said.
“Our recognition of this value, and the wisdom of mutual respect for each other, is set out in the Commonwealth Charter.”
The Commonwealth has 53 member countries, representing 2.3 billion people.
Monday’s event was the largest annual inter-faith service to take place in the UK.
