Ephrim Mirvis, new chief rabbi for Britain, takes office

LONDON, Sept. 1 (UPI) -- The new chief rabbi for Great Britain was officially installed this weekend at a ceremony in London.

Prince Charles and the archbishop of Westminster were among the audience at St. John's Wood synagogue to watch as Ephram Mirvis became the chief rabbi of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.

Mirvis represents the major orthodox wing of Judaism in Britain, but he is generally seen as the main spokesman for all British Jews, The Guardian said.

Mirvis said previously he was sticking to orthodox tenants, including opposition to female clergy and same-sex marriage. He stressed, however, he welcomed all Jews and would work with non-orthodox groups.