Mosaic Reform Synagogue hosted what is believed to be the first ever joint Liberal and Reform adult B’nei Mitzvah.

Four members of Mosaic Reform – Toria Bacon, Gillian Goldsmith, Jeff Highfield and Beth Kingsley – joined Shaan Knan of Mosaic Liberal Synagogue on the bimah in a single, unified service.

None of the five had a Bar/Bat Mitzvah at the age of 13, and so the service was a testament to their dedication and commitment as they stood proudly in front of the Ark.

Although Mosaic Jewish Community is made up of Liberal, Reform and Masorti Synagogues – this is the first time an inter-communal B’nei Mitzvah has been held and is a sign of how things are changing as we form one united Progressive Judaism for the UK.

The celebrations were led by Rabbi Kathleen Middleton and highlighted the enduring nature of Jewish traditions.

Rabbi Kathleen said: “It was a tremendous joy and a great privilege to have shared and guided this special journey of learning and preparation that our B’nei Mitzvah undertook in order to be able to conduct a most joyous and emotional service together.”

Shaan – who previously ran Liberal Judaism’s celebrated Rainbow Jews and Lily’s Legacy projects – added: “It was a wonderful and very special service. I have so much thanks for my fellow B’nei Mitzvah travellers, and most of all for Rabbi Kathleen and former Mosaic Rabbis Anna (Wolfson) and Rachel (Benjamin).”

The previous week had seen another memorable event at Mosaic as Tony Selman celebrated his second Bar Mitzvah at the age of 83, alongside his grandson, Charlie Ashford.