26 February 2019

Wessex Liberal Jewish Community has celebrated the 90th birthdays of two of its founder members.

Nat Roseman reached the milestone in November and then his wife, Joan, this month. The couple marked their joint celebration with a 180th party for their far-flung family.

Michael Hart, a recently joined member of Wessex Liberal Jewish Community, said: “Nat is the main lay leader of the community, taking services with great warmth and knowledge whenever there is no rabbi present.

“Joan showed that she is equally skilful when she gave the d’var torah before the scroll reading at the special service for her birthday.

“We have all very much enjoyed celebrating with them and their family and are now looking ahead to their 200th festivities!”

Nat and Joan were both brought up in Orthodox synagogues, met in London through a mutual friend and were married in 1955 by Rabbi Ignaz Maybaum.

They lived first in south west London and then in Leeds, where they and their two sons were involved with Sinai (Reform) Synagogue and hosted a monthly bible reading group.

They moved to Bournemouth, a few years before Nat retired from his role as a business consultant, attracted initially by the Reform Synagogue, kosher butcher, wonderful orchestras and manageable property prices.

Once settled they were then instrumental in setting up Wessex Liberal Jewish Community, with the support of Liberal Judaism, and have remained very influential and involved in its growth ever since.

Nat and Joan said: “Being involved in this community is such a positive experience for both of us. We receive such support and friendship from members of Wessex and are delighted to contribute to its activities.”

Wessex Liberal Jewish Community is now blossoming with more than 80 members, good attendance at Shabbat morning services, a welcoming and inclusive approach and a large core of active members who bring a wide range of skills.