Fixing Australia’s damaged interfaith relations
AIJAC announces new Interfaith and Community Liaison.
The Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC) has appointed veteran Senior Rabbi Ralph Genende OAM as its Interfaith and Community Liaison commencing in February.
AIJAC executive director Dr Colin Rubenstein who announced the part-time appointment this week said “Rabbi Ralph Genende is one of Australia’s most senior, experienced, and well-respected rabbis. His public profile extends far beyond the Jewish community, and he has a proven track record in interfaith and intercommunal dialogue.”
“Not only does he bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to AIJAC, particularly in interfaith and intercommunal relations where he has been involved for many decades, but he understands the responsibility of complying with the values and norms of a democratic society that has underpinned the success and harmony of Australian multiculturalism but is now under real challenge.
Rabbi Genende is unquestionably a perfect candidate to coordinate and lead the important task of exploring how relations can be rebuilt in what is clearly in the national interest.
“He is, of course, no stranger to AIJAC, and has been a valuable member of our editorial board for over 10 years,” he added.
Rabbi Genende told the AJN he views his new appointment as connecting with the different faiths and cultural groups within Australia to heal and redevelop the relationships that have eroded recently. “The important skill we must draw on is to communicate with one another through deep and respectful listening. I will look at this new role through the cracks in the lens that have occurred since the October 7 events.”
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