The new Chief Rabbi chose to hold his first breakfast visit at a synagogue in Hainault, much to the delight of worshippers.

Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis visited the Chigwell and Hainault Synagogue, Limes Avenue as part of his attempt to attend as many Sunday morning services as possible.

After the service there was an extensive breakfast served in the hall and he spoke about the importance of daily services at synagogues.

Rabbi Mirvis said: “I am delighted to be rolling out various initiatives aimed at engaging more directly with the community. A Sunday morning breakfast is a way of celebrating and encouraging the daily morning services in our synagogues.”

He used examples from the patriarchs to show how Abraham, Isaac and Jacob each instituted one of the services which are still in use today.

Rabbi Mirvis said this was crucial in emphasising the continuity and cohesiveness of the Jewish people and attending these services benefitted the whole community.

Rebbetzin Nechama Davis, wife of the synagogue’s rabbi, introduced Rabbi Mirvis and said she had known him since her student days.

She said: “He has a wonderful ability to transmit words of Torah in an accessible and inspiring way.”

Jack Lessing, chairman of the synagogue, gave a vote of thanks and said he was delighted, together with the synagogue’s community, to be the first to welcome the rabbi to such a breakfast.

Rabbi Mirvis is the Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth and started his duties in September.

He has previously served as the Chief Rabbi to Ireland and was the senior Rabbi at the Finchley Synagogue.

Steven Sands, synagogue cantor, said: “It was a thoroughly enjoyable and informative morning.

“The Chief Rabbi puts his message across with a great sense of humour, which educates and inspires you all at the same time.”