Rabbi David-Yehuda ‘DY’ Stern led a Tolkien themed Shabbat service at Radlett Reform Synagogue. Reflecting on the themes of The Hobbit, Lord of the Rings and Middle-Earth, the ‘Shacharit in the Shire’ service explored life’s journey, the loss and hope for nature and parallels between Lord of the Rings and … Read More
A reflection six months on from 7 October
By Rabbis Josh Levy and Charley Baginsky Co-Leads of Progressive Judaism In October of last year, together with other communal leaders, we produced a set of principles about how to respond to the emerging crisis in Israel and Gaza. It was called ‘Our Jewish Values’ and spoke for many in our … Read More
Cantor Zöe Jacobs to lead clergy team at Finchley Reform Synagogue
Finchley Reform Synagogue (FRS) has appointed Cantor Zöe Jacobs as its new Senior Clergy, replacing outgoing Senior Rabbi, Miriam Berger. The appointment marks a ground-breaking new model of congregational leadership and the next stage of a personal journey for Cantor Zöe. Cantor Zöe grew up in the FRS community – … Read More
NLS member is first ever Jewish High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire
The first Jewish appointee to the office of High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire was installed in a history-making ceremony at Nottingham Liberal Synagogue (NLS). Nick Rubins – one of the synagogue’s most active and dedicated members – has taken on the role, which is the oldest secular office under the Crown. … Read More
EHRS joins with Faiths Forum for London to host inaugural Iftar
Edgware and Hendon Reform Synagogue (EHRS) joined with Faiths Forum for London to host their first Iftar – which saw 100 people from local Jewish and Muslim communities come together to eat, learn, pray and listen to one another. The meal was prepared and served by a dedicated team of … Read More
Packed Purim parties show growth of our communities
Progressive communities around the country enjoyed fetes, spiels, fancy dress parades, parties, Megillah readings and more this Purim. Many of our Reform and Liberal congregations enjoyed record attendances as the festival was celebrated in true Progressive style. At Bromley Reform Synagogue, 250 people – including more than 100 potential new … Read More
‘Inspiring’ Progressive Iftar supports asylum seeker campaign
An Iftar at Finchley Progressive Synagogue (FPS) marked an important moment in a day of action campaigning for free bus travel for asylum seekers. The evening was the final stop on Barnet Citizens’ ‘Iftar for the Bus’, which saw a vintage bus travel across London to raise awareness for the … Read More
Rabbi Anna Gerrard welcomed back as Three Counties’ Lead Rabbi
Faith leaders from across Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Herefordshire joined together to celebrate the return of Rabbi Anna Gerrard as Lead Rabbi of Three Counties Liberal Jewish Community (3CLJC). It was a case of ‘welcome back’ for Rabbi Anna (pictured) – who had previously served 10 years in the post, before … Read More
Rabbi Golan Ben-Chorin is new Principal Rabbi of Alyth
Rabbi Golan Ben-Chorin has been appointed as Principal Rabbi of Alyth (North Western Reform Synagogue). Rabbi Golan (pictured) has more than 17 years of experience serving in communal and wider rabbinic roles all around the world, including as Rabbi of Rosh Pina – Israel’s northernmost Reform congregation – Temple Judea … Read More
Shirei met Chagigah and welcomed in the future
Uplifting, joyous, meaningful, and musical were some of the comments at the end of the Movement for Reform Judaism’s flagship event, Shirei meets Chagigah. It was an all-singing, all-learning four days away with rabbis, cantors, leaders, community members, and speakers from around the world, all coming together to enjoy and … Read More