Chief Reform Rabbi in South Africa Resigns His Post; Returns to U.S.

The resignation was announced today of Rabbi Dr. Ahron Opher as Chief Minister of the United Progressive Jewish Congregation of Johannesburg, largest Reform congregation in South Africa, with three constituent Temples. Formerly Rabbi of South Shore Temple, Chicago, Dr. Opher came to South Africa two years ago in response to a call from the Johannesburg congregation, supported by the World Union for Progressive Judaism.

In a statement accompanying his resignation, he said he has completed the mission which brought him to South Africa to give Reform Judaism new direction in this country, and he new wishes to return home. A statement by the Congregation’s Governing Council expresses profound regret at Rabbi Opher’s resignation and paid glowing tribute to him for his achievements in his two years of spiritual leadership as the congregation’s Chief Minister.