Progressive clergy put the kettle on for Brew Monday, the annual day that encourages everyone to reach out for a cuppa and a catch-up with those they care about. Pioneered by The Samaritans and brought to faith communities by Mitzvah Day, Brew Monday aims to dispel the myth that the … Read More
Progressive rabbis address Jewish Labour Movement Conference
Progressive Judaism Co-Lead Rabbi Charley Baginsky (pictured above), Rabbi Laura Janner-Klausner and Rabbi Deborah Blausten addressed the Jewish Labour Movement (JLM) One Day Conference 2025. Rabbi Charley spoke alongside Lord John Mann, the Government’s Independent Antisemitism Adviser, in a session titled Counter-Extremism in 2025, which was chaired by Jewish News … Read More
Taking the national stage this festive season
Chanukah, and the entire festive season, is a time when our leadership represent Progressive Judaism and our values on the national stage – showing the vital and mainstream role we play in British life. Throughout the month of December, Progressive Judaism Co-Leads Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Josh Levy spoke … Read More
Progressive Judaism Chanukah reflection
By Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Josh Levy, Co-Leads of Progressive Judaism Chag Urim Sameach! As we approach Chanukah this year, we are reminded of its timeless lessons and profound relevance to our lives today. Chanukah is a festival rooted in resilience and rededication. It celebrates a small group who … Read More
Leading on the national stage this Chanukah
Chanukah is a time when our leadership represent Progressive Judaism and our values on the national stage. Throughout this month, Progressive Judaism Co-Leads Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Josh Levy have/will be speaking and lighting candles at a number of key events. These include Chanukah celebrations hosted by the Prime … Read More
Highlights from the EUPJ Shabbaton in Vienna
The 2024 European Union for Progressive Judaism (EUPJ) Shabbaton in Vienna brought together over 30 participants from 10 countries — Italy, Spain, France, Hungary, Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Israel, Austria and the UK. With many young adults taking part, the weekend was inspiring, drawing on the wisdom of the past … Read More
Tribute to Joan Shopper as she retires as LJ Marriage Secretary
Joan Shopper has retired as Liberal Judaism’s Marriage Secretary. Liberal Judaism CEO, and Progressive Judaism Co-Lead, Rabbi Charley Baginsky said: “Joan has committed time and love to supporting the lifecycle moments of Liberal Jews over decades. The meaningful wedding ceremonies offered by our clergy were only possible because of her … Read More
Progressive Judaism Co-Lead addresses Sikh celebration
Rabbi Charley Baginsky, Co-Lead of Progressive Judaism, was a keynote speaker at the City Sikhs celebration for the 555th birthday of Guru Nanak Dev Ji – the founder of Sikhism. The event was held in the Houses of Parliament, and Rabbi Charley highlighted how faith provides much-needed illumination and guidance … Read More
Kallah retreat gives clergy a chance to renew and re-energise
The rabbis and cantors of Liberal Judaism held their annual Kallah retreat, using it as an opportunity to learn and pray together, and especially to take restorative time. Led by Rabbi Sandra Kviat (Crouch End Chavurah) and Rabbi Gili Zidkiyahu (Nottingham Liberal Synagogue), the colleagues used the retreat to support … Read More
Eighth cohort of Ba’alei Tefillah lay prayer leader course launches
The launch of the eighth cohort of Liberal Judaism’s flagship course for training lay prayer leaders took place this weekend at the Montagu Centre, a fitting venue named in honour of one of the movement’s pioneers, Lily Montagu. This special occasion not only marked the beginning of an exciting journey … Read More