Since January 1987 Rabbi Pesach Efune, together with his wife Penina and family, has been acting as the local emissary (Shaliach) of the worldwide Lubavitch movement.
During this period, the Efunes have participated in every aspect of local Jewish life, including the establishment of the Torah Academy primary school, chaplaincy to the universities, hospitals and prisons. They pride themselves on their open house policy, which means that both locals and visitors are always made to feel welcome. They organise numerous Jewish holiday awareness campaigns, adult education groups and a summer day camp.
Rabbi Efune also acted as the spiritual leader of the Brighton and Hove Hebrew Congregation for twelve year.
In his capacity as town Shaliach, Rabbi Efune together with his wife Penina, sees his role as reaching out to all Jews, irrespective of synagogue affiliation (or none) and to help make Judaism meaningful, joyful and relevant. He views religious labels as divisive.
Whilst he acknowledges that the community finds itself in challenging times, he also feels that it is precisely during such times that what is needed most are voices of optimism. He views his task to build and to mine the untapped spiritual resources that exist in the community and to ensure Jewish continuity for many years to come.
He can be contacted either by email at rabbiefune@lubavitchbrighton.comor on his mobile 07885 538681.