The High Holy Days are a period that many join, or try, a Progressive community for the first time – attracted by a welcoming atmosphere, genuine inclusion, and services for all the family that are both rooted in Jewish tradition and easy to participate in.

We estimate hundreds of new people spent Rosh Hashanah with a Progressive congregation this year, including those taking part in our ticket scheme for young adults.

Benjamin, Anthony and baby Macaulay (pictured) have just joined their local Reform synagogue.

Benjamin, who is CEO of Pink News, said: “This yom tov was our first with a baby and our first in a Progressive movement. Myself, my husband – who isn’t Jewish – and our amazing son, who is being brought up Jewish, were made to feel so welcome by the whole community.”

Elsewhere, journalist and author Linda spent her Rosh Hashanah as a first-time guest at East London and Essex Liberal Synagogue. She said: “Like many, I am only an occasional shul goer, but I immediately felt comfortable in a friendly and accessible Progressive service.”