Progressive Judaism will play a key role in Britain’s Weekend of Commemoration to mark the one-year anniversary of 7 October.

Following memorial Shabbat prayers and services within our communities on Saturday 5 October, members from around the country are invited to attend a memorial event in Central London on Sunday 6 October.

The Weekend of Commemoration – which is being organised by a variety of groups including the Board of Deputies of British Jews, Jewish Leadership Council and UJIA – will act as a cross-communal show of resilience and unity.

Henry Grunwald KC, Chair of the organising committee, said: “The 7 October 2023 was a traumatic event, not only for those in Israel but for our own Jewish community and Jews all over the world.

“We believe that the UK Jewish community has also suffered our own psychological trauma, and our aim is to bring people together to mourn the countless Israeli and other victims who were murdered that day and to show our support for the hostages who were taken, many of whom still remain in captivity.”

The weekend will begin with synagogues and communities running their own Shabbat programmes, followed by the major event in Central London on Sunday. This will comprise a memorial ceremony for the victims, including support for the hostages.

On Monday 7 October, there will also be a stall and exhibition area for all community organisations to develop their own memorials and events, designed according to each organisation’s values and perspectives.

Progressive/Liberal/Reform Judaism communities and members who wish to be involved should email the organisers on info@thejlc.org or visit www.bod.org.uk/oct7weekend. Those wishing to volunteer to support this event, should click here.