Masorti Europe, the second largest region of Masorti Olami, sends their warmest good wishes and deep gratitude to Rabbi Rivon Krygier on his retirement as Senior Rabbi from the Adath Shalom community in Paris, after three decades of loyal and devoted service.

To honour Rabbi Krygier’s remarkable journey, the Parisian congregation gathered in large numbers for a special Shabbat celebration. Reflecting on his time in Paris, he shared: “The dream that I have nurtured since the first moments of my arrival in Paris, 34 years ago, has come true before my eyes: a community where it is good and beautiful to be Jewish, where one is involved, creative, welcoming and benevolent, from the youngest to the oldest.”

Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg, Senior Rabbi of Masorti Europe, shared about his enduring friendship with Rabbi Krygier. “I’m grateful to Rabbi Rivon on many levels. I have so much to thank him for personally: he has been a steadfast companion in rabbinic work for over thirty years, leading to a personal ‘entente cordiale’ between London and Paris over numerous sessions of the Bet Din, many conversations, and through times thick and thin.”

Rabbi Wittenberg added: “I’m no less appreciative of Rivon’s presence as a central, seminal and constant figure in the world of Masorti Europe. I hope I won’t miss him, - because I trust he will remain a continued presence in all the different dimensions of his work and friendship.”

Rabbi Krygier shared with the community his belief that they will begin a good and exciting new chapter under the guidance of his successor, Rabbi Josh Weiner, who also shared a few words: "Rabbi Rivon Krygier set the foundations for the Masorti movement in France, inspiring other communities around the country to join. Considered an intellectual giant and known for his books and interviews, Rivon has often been the French voice of an authentic humanistic Judaism. We thank Rivon for his contributions and inspiration, and wish him all the best as he continues his path."

We join Masorti Europe in thanking Rabbi Rivon Krygier for his unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions to the growth of Masorti/Conservative Judaism in France, and extend our heartfelt congratulations on his well-earned retirement.