The Co-Leads of Progressive Judaism, Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Josh Levy, played key roles in the deeply moving Holocaust Memorial Day Commemoration at Lambeth Palace, organised by the Council of Christians and Jews (CCJ).

Rabbi Josh Levy leads prayer in Lambeth Palace

Hosted by Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell, on behalf of the Church of England, the event brought together faith leaders and members from across Jewish and Christian denominations in a powerful act of remembrance and unity.

Attendees were deeply moved by the words of Martin Stern, a Holocaust survivor, and Daniela Abraham, a second-generation survivor of the Roma genocide.

A hugely symbolic moment came with the lighting of six candles – to symbolise the six million Jews murdered in the Shoah and all victims of Nazi persecution – in a vessel created by ceramicist Edmund de Waal.

Rabbi Charley Baginsky delivers closing words stressing our shared humanity

Rabbis Josh led a reading at the event and Rabbi Charley delivered powerful closing words, which you can read here.

Rabbi Charley said: “Today, as we close this ceremony, let us remember that even in the midst of brokenness, there is the potential for renewal. Let us choose to stand together in the belief that a better world is within our reach – a world where kindness, justice, and peace prevail.

“May we always remember that it is through our collective will, our shared humanity and our unshakeable optimism that we create a future worthy of the lives we honour today.”

Others taking part included Bishop of London Dame Sarah Mullally DBE, Masorti Judaism Senior Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg, S&P Sephardi Community Senior Rabbi Joseph Dweck, Rabbi Elchonon Feldman of Bushey United Synagogue, Bishop John Sherrington and Greek Orthodox Archbishop of Great Britain Nikitas Lioulias.

CCJ Co-Director Georgina Bye said: “It’s important that we come together as people of different faiths, so that we can mark what has happened in the past and do our best to create a better future.”