Nottingham Liberal Synagogue marked its 60th anniversary with a celebratory event that drew more than 50 civic and community leaders from Nottinghamshire, including James Naish MP, Lilian Greenwood MP, Nadia Whittome MP, Michael Payne MP and the High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire Nick Rubins.

Among the distinguished guests were also Liberal Judaism Chair Karen Newman, Board of Deputies President Phil Rosenberg and representatives from neighbouring Liberal and Reform synagogues.

The presence of founding members David Lipman MBE and Danny Rubins added a special significance to the occasion. David said: “If on that day, in March 1965, the dozen or more people whom my wife Rae and I had invited to our home to discuss the formation of a Progressive Jewish Group had foreseen that 60 years later we would be celebrating the anniversary as a thriving congregation – rabbi, synagogue, celebrities and all – we would have believed in miracles – a belief that would have been strengthened if we had foreseen the football league table and Forest’s position in it.”

Karen Newman said: “It was a pleasure to see how the lay and spiritual leadership at Nottingham have, together, built such a vibrant, warm, diverse and inclusive community. Dignitaries, including four MPs and the Sheriff of Nottingham, came together to attest to the community’s important role in Nottingham’s life. NLS is truly a jewel in the crown of Progressive Judaism in this country.”

Jane Ginsborg, Chair of Seven Hills Sheffield Reform, was delighted to share in the celebration, saying: “You have clearly thrived and are flourishing in your beautiful building. We look forward very much to renewing our connection with you over the coming months and years.”

Michael Payne, MP for Gedling, also praised the event: “It was wonderful to see people of all faiths and none coming together to celebrate this important anniversary for Nottingham Liberal Synagogue.”

A special prayer for the city of Nottingham, written by Rabbi Gili Zidkiyahu was included in the service, and her sermon was described as inspiring and thought-provoking. One faith leader commented, “Rabbi Gilli’s sermon was profound, and I came away challenged — in the right sense!”

The 60th-anniversary celebration honoured the synagogue’s history and highlighted its ongoing commitment to the community and interfaith collaboration. Find out more about the community here.

Pictures:

1 (L-R): David Bogod (NLS Vice President), James Naish (Rushcliff MP), Nick Rubins (High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire and NLS member), Lilian Greenwood (Nottingham South MP), Nadia Whittome (Nottingham East MP), Michael Payne (Gedling MP), Nora Senior (Vice Lord Lieutenant) and Gary Godden (Police Crime Commissioner).

2 (L-R): Rabbi Gili Zidkiyahu, Karen Newman (Chair of Liberal Judaism), Karen Worth (NLS Deputy to BoD), Phil Rosenberg (President Board of Deputies of British Jews and Isobel Selkin (NLS member and granddaughter of founding member).