As the Movement for Reform Judaism and Liberal Judaism unite into one Progressive Judaism for the UK, we are holding Community Forums with all 80+ of our Progressive congregations. 

These are a chance for members to meet with Progressive Judaism Co-Leads Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Josh Levy, find out more about their vision for the future and share questions, ideas and feedback.

Most recently these forums have taken place in Manchester, Leeds and East London. 

At the East London event, Rabbis Josh and Charley spoke to members of Oaks Lane Reform, East London & Essex Liberal and Sukkat Shalom Synagogues. 

Oaks Lane’s Rabbi Jordan Helfman said: “The coming together of our two movements is a moment of light amongst the darkness of current times, already showing us how strong we can be if we work as one.” 

“The forum was a fantastic opportunity to show Rabbis Charley and Josh the vibrancy of our community here in East London, while learning from them how the new movement will enrich our Jewish experience here and beyond.”                       

Two separate events in Manchester included attendees from Menorah Synagogue, Jacksons Row (Manchester Reform Synagogue), Sha’arei Shalom (North Manchester Reform Synagogue), Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation, Southport & District Reform Synagogue and York Liberal Jewish Community, with a forum also held at Sinai Synagogue Leeds. 

York member and Liberal Judaism officer Owen Power said: “I was delighted to attend a special Shabbat Morning service at Jacksons Row Synagogue led by Rabbi Lisa Barrett with visitors from Southport & Blackpool Reform synagogues and special guest speakers Rabbis Charley Baginsky and Josh Levy.

“Rabbis Josh and Charley delivered an eloquent talk on the plans for the Progressive movement with plenty of time for Q&As.” 

Main picture: Rabbi Josh Levy, Rabbi Dr Tali Artman-Partock, Rabbi Richard Jacobi, Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Jordan Helfman at the East London Progressive Judaism community forum.

Bottom pictures: The two community forum events in Manchester, including Shabbat at Jacksons Row.