Progressive Judaism Co-Lead Rabbi Charley Baginsky spoke at the first major communal event to mark Rosh Hashanah.

Hosted by the US Ambassador to the UK Jane Hartley, and taking place inside the Ambassador’s residence Winfield House, the event underscored the importance of community and hope, marking the beginning of the coming High Holy Days.

Rabbi Charley – who also led the blessing for apple and honey – said: “It’s been a difficult year and so, this Rosh Hashanah, wishing for a sweet year is a prayer and not just a ritual. We are grateful that we have colleagues and friends to work with towards this goal.”

Other Progressive Jews at the event included Leo Baeck College Principal Rabbi Dr Deborah Kahn-Harris, Liberal Judaism Chair Karen Newman, Rabbi Anna Wolfson, Cantor Tamara Wolfson and RSY-Netzer Movement Workers Carrie Lee, Josh Freedman and Katie Freedman.

Rabbi Charley added: “It was a lovely night and a real privilege to bless the first apples and honey of the year.”