9 December 2015

Birmingham Progressive Synagogue (BPS) highlighted the needs of refugees fleeing poverty and persecution at a service to mark the community’s 80th anniversary year.

Rabbi Dr Margaret Jacobi, of BPS, told guests that in the current climate of increasingly “difficult and worrying times”, vital work to protect the rights of the oppressed was being carried out by interfaith groups on a combined scale in Birmingham. This was not only giving refugees a stronger sense of security, but also making Birmingham’s own community feel safer at a time of heightened fears and uncertainty.

Margaret added: “Birmingham is becoming a city of sanctuary for those who seek help and at BPS we maintain our pledge to continue playing a part in giving that support.”

Many local political and civic figures attended the service, including the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Raymond Hassall. They were joined by Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein, president of Liberal Judaism, along with other senior figures from our national movement.

Frank Maxwell, the president of BPS, welcomed the visiting dignitaries and acknowledged all the contributions made by Val Harrison, the community’s chair, and other members of the executive to ensure an anniversary service worthy of the occasion.

Each of the principal guests received a copy of Responding to the Call: A Life of Liberal Jewish Commitment, a book published in honour of Rabbi Harry Jacobi, MBE – father of Rabbi Dr Margaret Jacobi – who, in his 90th year, continues to serve Liberal Jewish congregations throughout the country.