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His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America welcomed Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, the 11th Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth, on Nov. 9 during the Chief Rabbi’s visit to New York.
The meeting marked the first encounter between the two religious leaders and focused on the vital role faith communities play in strengthening social bonds, rebuilding community life, and fostering meaningful human relationships in a post-pandemic world.
A respected voice in interfaith engagement, Chief Rabbi Mirvis, who had requested the meeting, has long championed dialogue and cooperation among religious communities in the United Kingdom and internationally. During their discussion, Archbishop Elpidophoros reiterated his unwavering support for the Jewish community in confronting antisemitism and combating hatred in all its forms. Chief Rabbi Mirvis, in turn, expressed solidarity with Christians worldwide who continue to face persecution and hardship because of their faith.
Both leaders emphasized the need to reinvigorate interfaith relations and explore new opportunities for collaboration amid today’s social and cultural challenges. Chief Rabbi Mirvis shared insights from his work on the Muslim-Jewish Reconciliation Accords, known as the Drumlanrig Accords, a landmark initiative signed in February 2025 and later presented to His Majesty King Charles III as a model for constructive engagement and mutual understanding.
The Chief Rabbi also reflected on his recent meeting with His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew during the Ecumenical Patriarch’s Apostolic Visit to Great Britain in September, noting the importance of continued cooperation among faith leaders in addressing issues of common concern.
At the conclusion of the visit, Archbishop Elpidophoros presented Chief Rabbi Mirvis with a silver-embossed icon of the Hospitality of Abraham, depicting Abraham and Sarah welcoming the three angelic visitors. The gift served as a reminder of the spiritual values of hospitality, encounter, and fellowship that continue to inspire dialogue and friendship between religious communities.
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