The leaders of Progressive Judaism in the UK have voiced their concern about ongoing vandalism at the Reform community of Kehilat Kol HaNeshama in Jerusalem.

The synagogue has suffered multiple hate crimes because of its Progressive principles, including its support for the LGBTQI+ community and holding egalitarian services with men and women sitting together.

The building has been broken into. A flag flying for Pride month has been destroyed or desecrated multiple times, as has a sign protesting for Israeli democracy.

Rabbis Charley Baginsky and Josh Levy – CEOs of Liberal and Reform Judaism in the UK – said: “We stand shoulder with Kehilat Kol HaNeshama. These attacks are not just directed at them, but at all Progressive Jews, and indeed all those who are considered outside the Orthodox Jewish mainstream, in Israel.

“We echo the words of our friend, Kehilat Kol HaNeshama’s Rabbi Oded Mazor, who said: ‘Our community is strong enough to face this, but it’s our duty as a Progressive congregation in Jerusalem to fight for and protect those who are even less fortunate and less strong than we are.’

“We are pleased to see the Pride flag is flying once again, and Progressive Jewish practice continues, at Kehilat Kol HaNeshama and we join them, and all at the Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism, in the commitment to create a better Israel.”