Leeds rabbi's sudden departure

The United Hebrew Congregation in Leeds has announced the sudden departure of its minister of almost 15 years, Rabbi Daniel Levy. He will leave after tomorrow's Shabbat service.

Rabbi Levy said he would not comment on the matter before his Shabbat sermon. But he and his family would be remaining in Leeds. In a statement, the president of the 1,200 member congregation, Paul Berwin, said that chazan Albert Chait would be "stepping up to take the lead role. Chazan Chait has been with the UHC for nine years and during that time has benefited hugely from Rabbi Levy's guidance. His leadership during Rabbi Levy's sabbatical and the benefit he gained from his own sabbatical have been an excellent preparation."

Mr Berwin praised "Rabbi Levy's great learning, leadership and oratorical skills. Of course, he will always be welcome at the UHC. In fact, the UHC will be welcoming him back the following week, when he will be officiating at a long-planned barmitzvah."