Essex Jewish News Chanukah 2023 by essexjewishnews

Inside your 20-page Community Newspaper

CHANUKAH ISSUE 5784/2023

Simchas

AJEX Parade

Mitzvah Day

Page 8

Page 13

Page 20

THE INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER FOR THE JEWISH COMMUNITY IN ESSEX & EAST ANGLIA

Standing united against antisemitism

Photo courtesy of Campaign Against Antisemitism social media

By PAT LIDIKER EWS and allies from across Essex have taken a number of steps to fight antisemitism in the wake of rising abuse and attacks against the Jewish community since the Hamas terrorist atrocities of 7 October. The terrorist attack and resulting Israel-Hamas war has brought a surge in antisemitic incidents in Redbridge and greater Essex, as it has in other parts of the country. You can read more on page 5 of this newspaper. In response, thousands of Essex residents were among the 105,000 people at the National March Against Antisemitism – believed to be the largest demonstration of its kind since the Battle of Cable Street in 1936. Harlow MP Robert Halfon and Southend-born celebrity Rachel Riley were just of the two of the high-profile faith leaders, politicians and celebrities taking part in the march (pictured), which was organised by the Campaign Against Antisemitsm (CAA) and supported by the Board of Deputies of British Jews. A spokesperson for the CAA said: “Britain sent a powerful message. Our country, one of tolerance and decency, stood shoulder to shoulder and said ‘no’ to anti-Jewish racism.” Hundreds more from Essex have attended other marches, rallies, vigils and events all over the country. These include the Together 4 Humanity vigils, taking place opposite Downing Street, where Jewish, Muslim and Christian leaders – along with

Israelis and Palestinians – unite to stand against antisemitism and anti-Muslim hate, mourn all innocent lives lost in the conflict and share a message of combined humanity. Our community also has the fullthrottle support of its local MPs. We wrote to all those with a sizeable Jewish population in their constituency – and below are excerpts from, their replies. Wes Streeting MP (Ilford North): I know that our Jewish community is going through deep trauma following events in Israel and it is abhorrent that this is being aggravated by antisemitism in our streets and on our screens. The diversity of my borough of Redbridge has always been part of our strength as a community. Since the appalling terror attacks of 7 October, I have been working with our community leaders to stand together against hatred. We must not allow such hatred to flourish. We are better than that. Britain, London and Essex must always be safe and welcoming places for all. Dame Eleanor Laing MP (Epping Forest): I am very conscious of the strain that our Jewish community is under. The attacks committed by Hamas are barbaric and the subsequent rise in antisemitism is abhorrent. The UK has always endeavoured to be a safe haven for Jewish people. I echo the words of the Prime Minister when he says that the Jewish community has our unequivocal support. We stand against antisemitism and hatred of any nature.

Anna Firth MP (Southend West): I recently spoke to both the Southend and Westcliff Hebrew Congregation and Southend and District Reform Synagogue and have been deeply affected. To see the repugnant language and despicable images targeted at them is very disturbing. I have subsequently met with Chief Inspector Jo Collins, Southend’s District Commander, to discuss what can be done to protect the Southend Jewish community and ensure they can go about their daily lives safely and free from abuse. Terrorism must never prevail and we must not tolerate any antisemitism or threats to our Jewish community. Andrew Rosindell MP (Romford): The only Jewish state in the world is suffering under the thumb of terror whilst the Jewish community here is fearful of a rise in antisemitism. It is imperative that we collectively show support for the British Jewish community. Sir Iain Duncan Smith MP (Chingford and Woodford Green): I am deeply committed to the Jewish people and will not tolerate antisemitism. It was absolutely right for the Government to give an initial £3million to CST to help communities from attacks at this increasingly dangerous time, to be followed by a further £7million. I am angry that the police have not known how to react to trouble at antisemitic, pro-Hamas marches and gatherings and this should be urgently addressed. On a local level I hold regular meetings with those at the helm in my own

constituency. With the closure of so many police stations I have stressed the need for greater visibility of more officers on our streets to reassure frightened residents they are there to help should trouble arise. Robert Halfon (Harlow): I am sickened by some of the reports coming out of our schools, colleges and university campuses, not just as Higher Education and Skills Minister, but also as a Jewish member of Parliament. Jewish students are being forced into an invisible ghetto because of what is going on. We will stamp this out. My political hero is Sophie Scholl and I have her picture in my office. She was a non-Jewish student and part of the White Rose movement who campaigned and spoke out against the Nazis. She was executed by Hitler in 1943, but where are the Sophie Scholls of today ready to speak out? We need to take a stand across British Society against the horror of antisemitism. Alex Burghart MP (Brentwood and Ongar): I have been deeply saddened to hear from Jewish constituents now afraid for their safety and that of their families as they go to work, school or university. Some have stopped taking day trips to London for fear of meeting protestors displaying Hamas logos and flags. Others are advising their children not to be drawn into arguments at school or university about the conflict. This is not how any members of my constituency should be made to feel. Both I and the Government are clear that the forces of terror can never be allowed to triumph.

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The Essex Jewish News is the newspaper of the Jewish community in Essex and is published by Essex Jewish News Ltd. CIRCULATION AREA Barking, Barkingside, Brentwood, Cambridge, Chigwell, Chingford, Chelmsford, Colchester, Epping, Gants Hill, Gidea Park, Harold Hill, Harlow, Hainault, Highams Park, llford, Leyton, Leytonstone, Loughton, Newbury Park, Ongar, Redbridge, Romford, Southend and Westcliff, Wanstead and Woodford. ESSEX JEWISH NEWS TEAM: Chair: Philip Leigh Directors: Melvyn Weinberg MBE, Manny Robinson, Simon Rothstein, Jonathan Bloom, Marc Shelkin, Micaela Blitz Editor: Simon Rothstein Editorial Consultant: Manny Robinson News and Features: Micaela Blitz and Pat Lidiker Proof Reader: Jan Martin-Ellis Advertising: Deborah Mulqueen Typesetting & Artwork: Jason Levy and Kate Abram (Dynamic Pear) Printing: Sharman Printers COPYRIGHT: All material is the copyright of Essex Jewish News Ltd and must not be reproduced without the written permission of the Editor. CONTACTS: All stories, pictures and editorial contributions should be sent by email to simon.rothstein@hotmail. co.uk or mannyrobinson@outlook. com

Meet the team Simon Rothstein

IN a new feature, each issue we will be introducing you to a member of the wonderful Essex Jewish News (EJN) team… starting this Chanukah with our editor What is your personal connection to the Essex area? Deep and lasting. I grew up in Clayhall – attending clubs at Sinclair House and AJ6 events in friends’ homes – and later lived in both South Woodford and Wanstead. Around nine years ago, I moved to Chelmsford – a truly gorgeous part of our county.

It is a true honour to follow in Manny’s footsteps and I’m delighted he is still very much part of the team as a columnist, editorial consultant and mentor. Why do you think it is important for Essex to have its own newspaper? Without the EJN, the successes, culture and history of our unique and wonderful Essex Jewish community would be lost forever.

And we are on the move. The Redbridge area where many of us grew up still has a sizeable community, but so too now does Epping, Collier Row, Romford, Southend, Buckhurst Hill, Loughton, Canvey Island and the list goes on. If you go further afield to Colchester and even onto Cambridge you will find thriving communities too.

Jewish Bereavement Counselling Service 020 8457 9710

The reward isn’t financial, but is a real sense of pride and purpose. What are your hopes for the future of the newspaper? Firstly, and being brutally honest, survival.

The incredible journalist and editor Manny Robinson, who made this newspaper everything it is, was wishing to retire and he and EJN director Melvyn Weinberg approached me to take the reins.

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Phone numbers are correct at the time of going to press. If your contact number or the contact number of your organisation has changed, or if you would like a contact number to be included, please advise us.

We have writers that are young journalists looking to boost their CVs, retirees wanting to keep active and those in busy jobs looking for a fun way to give back to the community.

When and how did you become the editor of the EJN? I was always a big fan of the paper, so was delighted when I was approached to edit it back in 2017.

There is so much happening here – thriving synagogues, excellent schools, inspirational people and, above all else, a wonderful spirit.

Jewish Blind and Disabled 020 8371 6611 Jewish Care 020 8922 2222 Jewish Care Community Events 0208 418 2100 or email timea.kasza@ jcare.org Jewish Marriage Council 020 8203 6311 Jewish Women’s Aid 0800 591 203 League of Jewish Women www.theljw.org email: office@ theljw.org Redbridge WIZO 020 8551 1301 Resource 020 8346 4000 Samaritans 020 8553 9900 /020 8520 9191 Southend and Westcliff JACS 01268 771978 The Paperweight Trust 0330 174 4300

It’s not a huge demand on your time and I can guarantee the stories you work on will be read by everyone you know!

My family are in Chigwell, Epping and Wanstead… and are all avid EJN readers!

For all advertising opportunities, please contact Deborah Mulqueen on office.ejn@gmail.com

Age Concern Redbridge 020 8220 6000 Ahada Bereavement Counselling 07758 727 328 Alzheimer’s Society 020 8970 5770 Board of Deputies Information Desk 020 7543 5400 Chabad Gants Hill addiction support 020 8554 1624 Chai Cancer Care 0808 808 4567 Chigwell and Hainault League of Jewish Women 0790 560 5781 Chigwell and Hainault JACS 020 8551 2355 Citizens Advice Bureau 0870 126 4140 Empathy 07765 191 067 Gants Hill JACS 0208 550 9450 Jewish Lads’ and Girls’ Brigade 020 8989 8990

who can volunteer, the more stories we can cover and the more diverse our voice becomes.

It’s so important that we continue to record and celebrate this. Can you tell us more about who is involved in putting the paper together? One major thing people may not realise about the EJN is it’s a volunteer team.

Even with a volunteer team, the costs of running any such operation are large – and not helped by the recent hikes in the price of paper and print.

Other than covering costs to make sure people aren’t out of pocket, we only operate because of the love our team have for the Essex Jewish community. This team includes our senior reporters Pat Lidiker and Micaela Blitz, many excellent contributors and columnists, eagle-eyed proof reader Jan MartinEllis and Jason Levy and Kate Abram of Dynamic Pear, who design and lay out the pages. Everything is overseen by our dedicated Board – which includes chair Phillip Leigh, Marc Shelkin and Jonathan Bloom – all of whom are also giving up their time for the good of our community. At this point I must mention those we have lost who were so much part of this paper. In the last few issues, you will have read obituaries for Clive Bayard, Mark Harris and Irving Angel. They were such key components of everything we did, as well as becoming personal friends, and continuing without them is very difficult. Do you need any more team members? Definitely! We always need great writers and proofreaders. The more people

Currently we are funded only by adverts and the hard work of Debbie Mulqueen in bringing them in for each issue. But that model can’t last forever. At one point the costs will exceed what the adverts raise and, sadly, there will no longer be an EJN. We recently became a charity, so people can make donations. If you can afford to do so, I would urge you to contribute. We would also love someone to help us apply to trusts and foundations, and additional help in selling adverts to the shops and businesses in our area. This will not only keep the EJN in print but also allow us to develop and regularly update our website and social media channels, which are vital to ensuring we reach more people and younger generations within the community. • If you are interested in being part of the EJN editorial team, please email Simon on simon.rothstein@ hotmail.co.uk. For donations or to offer assistance with fundraising or advertising, please speak to Phillip on phillip@phillipleigh.uk. Your help would be very greatly appreciated!

WHERE YOU CAN PICK UP THE ESSEX JEWISH NEWS SYNAGOGUES Chabad Buckhurst Hill Chabad Epping Chabad Gants Hill Chelmsford Jewish Community Chigwell Synagogue Chingford Synagogue Cranbrook United East London & Essex Liberal Synagogue Harlow Synagogue Ilford Federation Leytonstone and Wanstead Synagogue Loughton Synagogue Oaks Lane Reform New Essex Masorti Romford Synagogue

Southend & Westcliff Hebrew Congregation Southend Reform Sukkat Shalom Woodford Forest

SCHOOLS Clore Tikva King Solomon High Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary COMMUNAL Jewish Blind & Disabled Aztec House Jewish Blind & Disabled Hilary Dennis Court Jewish Blind & Disabled Milne Court

Jewish Care’s Southend & Westcliff Jewish Community Centre Jewish Care’s Vi and John Rubens House Limewood Court, Beehive Lane The Shop, Southend

RETAIL Delicacy, Chigwell Gary Green, Clayhall La Boucherie, Barkingside Reuby’s Salt Beef & Cheesecake Bar, Clacton-on-Sea Shalom Bakery, Gants Hill

SUPERMARKETS Morrison’s Loughton Sainsbury’s Barkingside Sainsbury’s Loughton Sainsbury’s Newbury Park Sainsbury’s Ongar Sainsbury’s South Woodford Sainsbury’s Southend Sainsbury’s Westcliff Tesco Barkingside Tesco Epping Tesco Westcliff Tesco Woodford Avenue LIBRARIES Fullwell Cross Gants Hill South Woodford

CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 3

Why young Jews are coming home to Essex

William Barton / Shutterstock.com

By PHILLIP LEIGH, CHAIR, ESSEX JEWISH NEWS

HEN I opened my first estate agent office in Gants Hill in 1966 there was in the order of 55,000 Jewish families living in the area between Woodford and Wanstead in the west and Chigwell in the east. We estimate that the same homes are now only occupied by some 16,000 Jewish families. Where did they all go? The Exodus, which started in the early 1980s, as we all know has mainly been towards north west London and Hertfordshire. However, for numerous reasons, this trend is now waning. I and my fellow estate agents are receiving daily enquiries from those who are seeking to return to the land of their fathers. The main reason that people are coming home is without a doubt due to

property prices. While the costs of homes in places such Barnet and Borehamwood have rocketed, properties in our Redbridge and Epping Forest areas have increased in value to a lesser extent. In valuation terms, when selling a property, we use a measure of price per square foot (psf). One can, in many cases, still purchase a fine home in a desirable Essex area at between £400-500 psf. A similar house in a NW postcode could cost double that figure. Another reason we are seeing young (and indeed old) Jewish families and individuals returning to Essex is that, although obviously far from crime free, our area has less major crime and certainly less cases of antisemitism. This phenomenon is not just limited

to those coming from NW London. Jewish families emanating from Hackney, Dalston, Stoke Newington, and even Homerton, may be kicking themselves for not holding onto their family home when they see how much the price of property has increased in these areas. Almost to the level of central London. Those still living there, having pocketing a nice profit but fed up with poor schooling, congestion and pollution and crime, are now coming our way too. Finally, a third group is those from all other areas of the country – who need to move to be near London for work. They are being drawn in by great transport links and infrastructure to get into the city, combined with the nicer

Help us brighten up the lives of older people in our community this

lifestyle provided by green areas, great restaurants and plenty of amenities. In Essex, we have synagogues covering every type of Judaism you could want – United, Federation, Reform, Liberal, Masorti, Sephardi and Chabad – three Jewish schools, a butcher and plenty of delis. Many people may also have older relatives in one of our Jewish care homes or independent living buildings. Essex is also tempting as people get the best of both worlds – being part of a vibrant Jewish community, while also having friends and neighbours from all faiths and backgrounds. Some time ago I forecast that would we one day see a full revival of Jewish life in Essex. Over the next few years, hopefully we will get to experience it.

This Chanukah will feel different for most of us. Vulnerable and isolated older Jewish people are worrying about current events whilst facing their own challenges closer to home. For the eight days of Chanucare, and every other day of the year, Jewish Care does all it can to make thousands of lives brighter. Our critical services enable older people to remain connected to their Jewish identity, live with dignity and receive the care and support they need. At times like this, we rely on the generosity of our community to help us continue caring for all those that need us, now more than ever. To donate, please call 020 8922 2600 or visit www.jewishcare.org/chanucare

you can also donate here!

Charity Reg. No. 802559

4 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023

A new care and community campus for Redbridge Building work set to begin on Jewish Care’s super development

By SIMON ROTHSTEIN

ONTRACTORS have been appointed by Jewish Care to build a brand new, first-class campus in Redbridge – with work set to begin next month. The charity has long been committed to building this development in the East London and Essex area with planning permission finally granted in October. The new building – which is on the site of the old Redbridge Jewish Community Centre – will comprise a first-class, modern and fully accessible community centre space that will house a centre for people living with dementia along with a 66-bed care home, replacing the Vi & John Rubens House care home in Gants Hill. It will also act as Jewish Care’s campus in Redbridge, housing its social work team and meals-on-wheels hub, in addition to providing communal space. The CGI images on this page, many being seen for the first time, show what the new space will look like.

Jonathan West, Jewish Care’s director of legal affairs, property and procurement said: “What was once a dream, will now be a reality. For us, this is not just about physical infrastructure, but the development of the right facilities and programmes to meet current and future demand for all Jewish Care services in the local community. “With so many Jewish families using our services in the area, we will be able to provide a first-class care and community campus designed to meet their needs, now and into the future. We will also continue our commitment to ensuring that the development is as environmentally friendly and sustainable as possible. “The memories made at Redbridge Jewish Community Centre are so important to us and to the community, so we have carefully preserved the memorabilia from decades of life at RJCC, also known to many as Sinclair House or simply ‘Club’. These will be displayed at the new Redbridge campus

when it opens.” The development has been made possible thanks to the support of many generous donors, including large commitments from Lord (Alan) Sugar and his family, together with the Ronson family via The Gerald and Gail Ronson Family Foundation. Lord Sugar said: “We are proud to be supporting the exciting development of a new care and community campus in Redbridge. Our family have had a long and deep association with Jewish Care’s services in Redbridge, where my late mother was a resident at Vi & John Rubens House. “We are absolutely delighted to be helping our older community live with dignity and compassion in facilities that deliver high quality care on a state-ofthe-art campus. “We hope our commitment will be a catalyst for Jewish Care’s other local supporters to join us and the Ronson family in making this project a reality, which the Essex and East London

community truly deserves and can rightfully feel proud of.” The Sugar family and Gerald Ronson CBE and Dame Gail Ronson DBE have been long-standing supporters of Jewish Care, showing unwavering commitment to the organisation over many decades both in Essex and beyond. Alongside their commitments – and funds already raised by the Redbridge Aid Golf Society – the development has been hugely supported by Hamberley Developments Limited and Patron Capital as development coordinator. Jewish Care has now launched a campaign to raise the remaining £5 million from the local community, which is expected to be needed to complete the project. Construction is expected to begin in January 2024 with the aim of opening the campus in mid-2026. Further updates about the project will be shared with the community in the coming months.

Antisemitism figures shock community

N the 54 days between the Hamas terror attack on Israel on 7 October and the end of November, the Community Security Trust (CST) recorded at least 1,747 antisemitic incidents across the UK. This is the highest ever total reported to the CST since it began keeping records in 1984 – almost 40 years ago – and an increase in antiJewish hate acts of 564% compared to the same period last year. The total, recorded over less than two months, exceeds both the previous nine months of this year and the entire number of incidents in 2022. This is also a provisional figure that is almost certain to increase further as the CST receive more delayed reports of incidents covering this period. And although Essex has had less antisemitism than other parts of the country, it is far from immune. According to press reports, at a Friday service at an Islamic Centre in Redbridge, an un-named speaker is alleged to have told the congregation in Arabic: “Curse the Jews and the Children of Israel. Curse the infidels... tear them apart and destroy their homes.’”

CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 5

At a school in Essex, a swastika was carved into one of the desks in the classroom while, in another part of the county, a woman woke up to banging on her front door by a gang of men shouting: “Get out, bloody Jews.” The CST figures include all instances of anti-Jewish racism, wherein offenders are targeting Jewish people, communities and institutions for their Jewishness. In many cases, these hateful comments, threats to life and physical attacks are laced with the rhetoric and iconography of proPalestinian and anti-Israel politics. Even compared to periods of previous conflicts involving Israel, these statistics are unprecedentedly high. The last time a significant spike in antisemitism related to events in the Middle East was logged occurred in May 2021. During that conflict, which lasted one month, 691 instances of antiJewish hate were recorded. During the first 54 days of the 2014 Gaza War, CST had 519 reports. Both these totals have now been far surpassed by the 1,747 incidents from the 54 days before the Essex Jewish News went to press. Also, it is important to bear in

mind that, when making comparisons, the numbers for 2021 and 2014 are final totals including all late-reported incidents rather than a provisional figure. Dave Rich, the director of policy at the CST, said: “These figures are a shocking indictment of the level of antiJewish hatred happening right now in our country. “It is even more appalling when you remember that this wave of antisemitism began as a reaction to a terror attack on Israel that caused the largest loss of Jewish life since the Holocaust.” CST has also logged a further 1,123 incidents that have not been classified as antisemitic. These include criminal acts affecting Jewish people and property, suspicious behaviour near to Jewish locations, and anti-Israel activity that is not directed at the Jewish community or does not use antisemitic language. Many of these potential incidents involve suspicious activity or possible hostile reconnaissance at Jewish locations, and they play an important role in informing CST’s provision of protection to the Jewish community.

Dave Rich, director of policy at CST

Dave Rich added: “We encourage everyone to report incidents to us at the CST and, importantly, to the police. We are working flat out to support everyone who gets in touch.” • To report an antisemitic incident to CST, please use their online form or for urgent or out-of-hours reports call their 24-hour national emergency number 0800 032 3263.

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6 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023

News Essex entrepreneurs

praised by Google at Work Avenue event

ore than 80 Jewish businesspeople, including many from Essex, were taught how to ‘work smart’ by experts from Google and the tech sector at Work Avenue’s Enterprise Expo. With a focus on AI, automation and digital tools, the event brought together entrepreneurs from across many different industries to hear and share insights, experiences and best practices through a series of sessions and networking opportunities. Opening the Expo, Work Avenue chief executive Debbie Lebrett said: “This is an event dedicated to the pursuit of excellence and success in business. In today’s changing landscape, the imperative to work smart has never been more important. “The ability to progress, to innovate and to optimise our efforts is key to not just surviving… but to thriving. The very essence of working smart is about harnessing our resources, leveraging technology and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.”

The day’s keynote speaker was Glenn White from Google Digital Garage, who shared digital marketing insights covering social media, search engine optimisation, advertising, analytics and more. Glenn, making his first visit to Work Avenue’s WE Hub in Finchley, was impressed by both the knowledge of the Jewish community’s entrepreneurs and the support they receive from Work Avenue. He said: “I had a wonderful time at the Enterprise Expo. It was heartening to see such a high knowledge level and so many people seeking to harness new technology and the low cost tools that are out there. “WE Hub is a fantastic workspace offering state of the art facilities in a prime location. I was also impressed at just how Work Avenue helps start-up and scale-up businesses to get ahead and become a success.” Guests also got to hear from those in the community who have successfully integrated AI into their

Google’s Glenn White presents at the Work Avenue Enterprise Expo

businesses. This included a panel discussion on automation with Michelle Henley, Craig Hartzel, Jude Vorhand and Aron Keet and a ‘Tech Entrepreneur Fireside Chat’ with Paul Chapman – founder of property valuation platform Landworth – and Dave Katz, who co-founded the location data based intelligence tool Intuizi. Deborah Gruenberger – the founder of design and marketing agency Gerety – delivered a session on using

AI to unlock creativity, giving handson examples of how any business can benefit. She said: “It was a privilege to present to such a well-informed and engaged audience. My favourite part of the day was listening to all the other talks and learning new things from every single one of them. “As always, Work Avenue did a great job bringing people together and producing something of real value for small businesses and entrepreneurs.”

Lord Levy in Loughton Jewish Care’s new kittens… By GAYLE KLEIN

HIS October saw the inaugural Lewis Lane Memorial Lecture take place at Loughton Synagogue. More than 100 guests were welcomed by synagogue president Philip Leigh, who introduced the lectures first special guest speaker The Lord Michael Levy. Lord Levy described his life as a communal lay leader, why he got involved with different charities and his roles. He is currently life president of Jewish Care, honorary president of UJIA and president of Sense and Sense International, JFS, JLGB, Etz Chaim Jewish Primary School, Mathilda MarksKennedy Jewish Primary School and Barnet and Southgate College. Lord Levy went on to speak of his

career as a chartered accountant, the twists and turns, chance meetings and opportunities eventually taken which saw him become founder of Magnet Records which became a successful independent label. The atrocities in Israel of 7 October, and current conflict in the Middle East, inevitably saw discussion move to Lord Levy’s time as special advisor on the Middle East to Prime Minister Tony Blair. He also talked about becoming a life peer in the House of Lords in 1997. Lord Levy has been described by the Jerusalem Post as “undoubtedly the National leader of British Jewry” and it was wonderful to hear his story at this special event.

Emily with Ewelina and Jack and Jill at Jewish Care’s Vi & John Rubens House

The Lord Michael Levy speaking at Loughton Synagogue

EWISH Care’s Vi & John Rubens House has two new residents… kittens Jack and Jill. Pictured here with the care home’s registered manager Ewelina Popiel-Lewosinska and student Emily Schaverien, the cute pets have been a hit with all residents and visitors. Emily – whose great-grandma Fay lived at the care home, until she passed away a year ago, and whose aunt is now a resident – is doing a work placement at Vi and Johns as part of her health and social care extended diploma and is now also part of the relief staff team. She says: “I want to go into nursing and I chose this course as I like being

able to help people who need support. The residents are lovely and treat me like their granddaughter. “I’m gaining great experience and I think it’s a great thing to do. I’d definitely advise others to take this course and get work experience, if it’s what you are interested in then your passion will show. “I want to thank all the staff for their help and support…. and the kittens are adorable!” The kittens, who have lived at Vi and Johns since they were tiny, are joined by other pets including budgies that moved there from the Jewish Care Brenner Stepney Jewish Community Centre.

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The Progressive Jewish Communities, their Councils and Rabbis, wish you a

Chag Urim Sameach

Together, our light shines even more strongly against the darkness. We light our menorot in support of those held hostage, rekindling our hope for peace and security.

Your simchas and celebrations 8 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023

Rabbi Sufrin saves the day R ABBI Aryeh Sufrin MBE – the executive director of Chabad North East London and Essex – helped a couple marry after they had to cancel their planned wedding in Israel. The parents of Ellis Sharpe wrote to the rabbi to see if he could wed Brit Ellis and his Israeli bride Shira Kupershmid on their chosen date, after the terrorist attacks and outbreak of war meant they could no longer go to Israel. Working alongside wife Devorah, and with just two weeks’ notice, Rabbi Sufrin ensured that the marriage happened. The chupah took place in Camden Lock, London, in the presence of local shliach Rabbi Yossi Beitz and Rabbi Yossi Posen of Chabad Epping, where Ellis’ parents are members. The ceremony

was followed by an informal seudah at the nearby and newly opened Mazal restaurant, which has Israeli ownership. Rabbi Sufrin told the Essex Jewish News: “We just knew we had to take out any possible stops to get Shira and Ellis under the chupah. We were all determined to ensure that the forces of evil cannot be allowed to win over the desire of a young couple to be married according to Halacha and start their lives together. “This was a no frills chupah, four poles and a tallis, just like an era of the past – the shtetl – with no flowers and large bands. “But what we did have was an energy of deep love and simcha felt by each and every one of the 60 or so guests.”

Solly Sharpe celebrates his century

By BRENDA SOSKIN

Rabbi Aryeh and Devorah Sufrin with the happy couple

BIRTHDAY card from King Charles III and Queen Camilla was just one of the many received by Solly Sharpe as he turned 100. Solly – a member of Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue and a stalwart of the shul’s Lunch Club – is well known in the local community serving as the joint secretary of the Redbridge Pensioners Forum and the Ilford Pensioners Association, as well as being a former Scout leader and past treasurer of Redbridge Talking Newspapers and JACS. His birthday was celebrated at the Lunch Club with a cake and a certificate indicating a donation in his name to Magen David Adom. He also received a personally signed copy of Wes Streeting’s autobiography, which acknowledged Solly’s input in local politics and his support over many years. Born in Leyton in October 1923, to Phoebe and Pinkus Shapiro, Solly’s early years were spent in Stepney attending Robert Montefiore Primary School where 99% of the pupils and masters

were Jewish. An intelligent pupil, he passed the junior county scholarship to go to Christ Hospital School, a very prestigious institution, which he attended for five years. Solly’s mother was quite political and canvassed for Clement Attlee who became Prime Minister in 1945. Like many Jews in the East End at that time, Solly was a member of the Communist Party, but he took example from his mother and joined the Labour Party where he got involved in local politics, becoming treasurer of the Redbridge Labour Party branch in Aldborough. During the War years, Solly was a member of the Royal Army Ordnance Corp until 1942 when it became the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. As a corporal, Solly was sent to Nairobi in East Africa where he was briefly promoted to sergeant and on to Ceylon and Burma where he met Lord Mountbatten. After the war, Solly met and married his wife Hilary and they had two sons. Solly and Hilary were married for over 47 years until her death in 2005. Having an aptitude for maths, and wanting a steady job, Solly decided to study accountancy, which took seven years and he became qualified in 1955. The company Solly worked for had many show business clients, amongst which were Bruce Forsyth and Lionel Bart. Solly told me that Bruce Forsyth was a lovely man who sent the company tickets for his one man show “to fill up the seats”. Living independently, still spritely and quick thinking at the age of 100 and with a keen sense of humour, Solly is an inspiration to all of us.

Mia Bluman and Ava Bluman were batmitzvah in a joint ceremony at Cranbrook United Synagogue, with a party at the London Chigwell Prince Regent Hotel. Rebbetzen Siobhan Dansky taught the girls their D’var Torah.

Harry Portnoy (pictured with his family) was barmitzvah at Cranbrook United Synagogue, with a party at The Willows in Barkingside. Picture by Claudine Hartzel.

Send your celebration photos to simon.rothstein@hotmail.co.uk

CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 9

Jewish Care residents are a TikTok hit

Jewish Care residents and TikTok stars Edna Grant, Sydney Kac and Rose Nathan

By PAT LIDIKER

HREE residents at Vi & John Rubens House care home, in Ilford, are among those receiving thousands of hits on the Jewish Care TikTok account. They took part in the charity’s ‘Then and Now’ series on the social media site – holding a photo of themselves in their youth. Jewish Care have been delighted at the enthusiastic response, including almost 40,000 views for the series and comments sections that are filled with praise and compliments.

Among those who submitted their own personal life stories are Edna Grant, Sydney Kac and Rose Nathan who, with a combined age of 290, show you don’t have to be a teenager to take to TikTok. Edna, 92 – a former secretary, painter and primary school teacher – and her cousin Rose, 101, a secretary who once worked for MI5 and an American colonel, have very much enjoyed taking part. Both look back on full and happy lives with much-loved husbands, children and great-grandchildren. Edna says: “My advice to younger

people would be to live in the moment. Life goes by so quickly so it’s important to make the most out of whatever comes your way.” Talking about her beloved Lew, she added: “I think about him so much and cherish him with all my heart. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking about how wonderful he was as a husband and father to our two children, Sue and Anne.” Asked for her secret for a long and healthy life, Rose said: “My advice is to be contented. Always appreciate what you

have and take an interest in everything you do.” Great-grandfather of eight Sydney, 97, had a career including being a builder’s merchant and radio mechanic. He joined the army at just 17 where he learned Morse Code and says: “Once you learn you never forget, I can still remember it from all those years ago!” Speaking about his true love, he added: “When I met my late wife, Betty, she served me coffee, and I would describe it as love at first sight because we were together ever since.”

10 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023

Chanukah greetings

to the Community 5784/2023

The team at the Essex Jewish News wish all our readers a Happy Chanukah

Greetings from

ROMFORD & DISTRICT (AFFILIATED) SYNAGOGUE (Incorporating Havering Jewish Ladies)

25 EASTERN ROAD, ROMFORD, ESSEX RM1 3NH 01708 741690, 01708 748199 or 01708 765117 Rabbi Lee Sunderland, the Honorary Officers and Congregation wish everyone a Happy and Healthy Chanukah

Rabbi Yanky & Rebbetzen Rochel and family, the Honorary Officers and Board of Management Wishing all readers a joyous & happy Chanukah

ILFORD FEDERATION SYNAGOGUE A thriving community

2a Clarence Avenue, Ilford, Essex IG2 6JH Tel: 0208 554 5289

Rabbi & Rebbetzen Singer, The Honorary Officers, Board of Management and our Community send greetings to all EJN readers for a Happy and Peaceful Chanukah

WOODFORD FOREST UNITED SYNAGOGUE

20 Churchﬁelds, London E18 2QZ Telephone 020 8504 1990 www.wfus.org.uk

Rabbi & Rebbetzen Wollenberg, the Honorary Oﬃcers & Synagogue Council wish all readers a Happy Chanukah

A Southend and District Reform Synagogue 851 London Road Westcliff-on-Sea Essex SS0 9SZ Telephone 01702 711663 www.southendreform.org.uk

ILFORD FEDERATION SYNAGOGUE The Executive and Council of Southend 2a Clarence Avenue, Ilford, Essex IG2 6JH and District Reform Synagogue, Tel: 0208 554 5289

together with Rabbi Warren Elf MBE, More than just a synagogue warmly wish the community and all **Daily amorning Sabbath services** readers happyand and healthy Chanukah

wishes the community a Happy Chanukah 5784

**Weekly games afternoons** activeand JACSShabbat group** morning Kabbalat**Large Shabbat **Full educational programme** services are held weekly by Zoom, *New modern designed building** with fortnightly Shabbat halls formorning hire** **Attractive modern at SDRS **Lift to allservices floors including Sabbath**

Rabbi Singer, the Honorary Officers You are welcome to join us. and Board of Management wish all Please contact the synagogue for details. readers of the EJN a Happy and Peaceful Chanukah

KING SOLOMON HIGH SCHOOL Headteacher: Ms M Phillips Tel: 020 8498 1300 info@kshsonline.uk www.kshsonline.uk

WOHL ILFORD JEWISH PRIMARY SCHOOL Headteacher: Mrs L West Tel: 020 8498 1350 office@ijpsonline.co.uk www.ijpsonline.co.uk

The Governors, Staff and Students at both schools wish the whole community a very happy Chanukah

A fresh approach to design, branding and communications

Wishes the Essex Jewish community a very Happy Chanukah www.dynamicpear.co.uk

Rabbi Goodwin, the Honorary Oﬃcers and Synagogue Council together with its Pre-School Nursery wish all readers of the Essex Jewish News a Happy and Healthy Chanukah

CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 11

wish all of our friends and supporters a very happy and healthy Chanukah On behalf of Executive Directors:

For all advertising opportunities, please contact Deborah Mulqueen on office.ejn@ gmail.com

Rabbi Aryeh MBE & Devorah Sufrin of Chabad Gants Hill Rabbi Odom & Henny Brandman of Chabad Buckhurst Hill Rabbi Yossi & Rivkah Posen of Chabad Epping Rabbi Tzvi & Mushkie Birnhack of Chabad Southend-on-Sea

22 Beehive Lane, Ilford, Essex, IG1 3RT

Gants Hill: www.chabadilford.co.uk Buckhurst Hill: www.chabadonthehill.co.uk Epping: www.chabadepping.co.uk Southend: www.chabadsouthend.co.uk

Rabbi Steven & Rebbetzen Siobhan Dansky, Reverend Gary & Gillian Newman, the Executive and Synagogue Council wish everyone a Happy Chanukah

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12 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023

Comment Aligned against antisemitism By MICHELLE HARRIS

HE demonstration against antisemitism on Sunday 26 November was incredibly uplifting. British Jews, together with other supporting communities, took to London’s streets in solidarity against the surging hatred towards Israel and Jews that has been unleashed by the recent Pro-Palestinian marches and fuelled by propaganda on social media. Every Saturday, since the 7 October terrorist attacks, London has felt like a no-go area for Jews. We’ve been angered, intimidated and even felt unwanted in a country that we have called home for many decades. The silence of certain humanitarian movements has also been shocking. United Nations - UNiTE to End Violence against Women. Silence. #METOO. Silence. But as we sang at the march – this deafening silence has now been shattered. We all needed this event and it was incredible to see 105,000 people come out to fly the Israeli flag and Union Jack as symbols of joint loyalty. We wanted to show photographs of the hostages - and to shout BRING-THEM-HOME whilst singing Oseh Shalom with such pride and assertiveness. For just a few hours, our song was a unified code for - We’re Here. We’re proud. And we’re not leaving… This is OUR HOME. It should also be noted that the CST, Metropolitan Police Service and organisers, the Campaign Against Antisemitism, ensured formidable security. Looking at what is happening in Israel, it has been very reassuring to see the US and UK Governments

steadfast at Israel’s side. Although some countries have made some unwelcome statements, the reality is, they haven’t joined in the war. Aside the Houthis in Yemen and some goading on the Lebanon border, no other country has attacked Israel and they have kept out. The Arab nations have not joined the conflict and the existing peace treaties have miraculously held. Sometimes silence can be as powerful as a roar. Hamas are terrorists and their actions have repulsed the world and clearly, they have no friends. They expected their Arab brothers to support them but they didn’t. Hamas erroneously assumed Iran would fight by their side when Israel replied with military strength and power. But they also… didn’t. Nobody supports them. They stand alone and will soon cease to exist. Our prayers are for the release of the remaining hostages and their reunion with families. On another positive note, despite us being an ancient tribe, it is only 75 years since the establishment of a Jewish state. The army and air force are amongst the world’s leaders, and possess formidable technology such as the Iron Dome (and now Beam) – protecting Israelis from rockets with a staggering 90% success rate. The Merkava (translated as chariot) Barak super tanks which are revered as ‘the best in the world’ and powered with AI technology, processing and unrivalled systems that mark a new era in warfare technology plus so much more. We need it! As a closing comment, and to give balance, we must also consider the Palestinians’ perspective. Gaza is now a wasteland, but there are over two million inhabitants of which half are children. They have

Michelle Harris on the march with former Prime Minister Boris Johnson

nowhere else to go and will always be Israel’s neighbour. Gaza will need to be rebuilt and hopefully soon, under an enlightened and tolerant Palestinian governmental authority that advocates peace and agrees an urgent process of deradicalization. The Arab nations together with Israeli, US and international politicians are calling for a diplomatic solution to end the wars. In this respect, the only viable way forward is the possible development of a two-state solution

Chanukah in Havering lasts all eight nights By TINA HINE

HAVE lived in Havering for eight years. It is one of those places where it’s not quite London and not quite Essex, but I, like many Havering residents, consider it Essex. I live in Romford, on the border of Collier Row, which has a growing Jewish community. It’s been really nice to attend small local Jewish events. There had been talk for a number of years, about having a public menorah in Collier Row, but in the meantime I was happy to go to lightings in other places including Chigwell, Barkingside and Buckhurst Hill. I’m a secular Jew, but do partake in certain Jewish celebrations and going to menorah lightings is always a highlight

of my year. I love the feeling of our community coming together, celebrating light and connecting spiritually. Some months ago, I was delighted to learn that not only had Havering agreed to have a public menorah, but it would be in the town I live in, Romford. In my diary, on Tuesday 12 December, I proudly wrote in “menorah lighting in Romford” (I’m old fashioned and have not transitioned to a digital diary). Then, just three weeks before Chanukah, I received a shocking message telling me Havering council had cancelled Chanukah! After messaging people I knew, and even people I didn’t know, I was told the council had withdrawn the agreement of a public menorah, which meant there would be no public lighting. I was shocked, devastated and felt

really let down by our council. That was just the start of the rollercoaster of emotions that I and many people in the Jewish community felt. I was soon informed that, thanks to the negotiations of some special people in our community, the council had agreed we could still have the ceremony on 12 December, but it would be with a temporary menorah and for one night only. It felt bizarre! I thought do the council not know the miracle we are celebrating; that the oil lasted eight days instead of one? Yet here they were saying we can only light the menorah for one night. Then, suddenly, things started happening… national press, radio, TV, social media I must admit, this did concern me. I worried publicity could actually cause trouble. That it could give the council

where Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in lasting peace. So far, the Palestinian leadership have rejected every offer. Now and hopefully, the international community will force their hand. Everybody in the region can benefit from Peace. Nobody benefits from war and suffering. • Michelle Harris is a freelance journalist and member of the National Union of Journalists and International Federation of Journalists.

ammunition to say they were right, and that there would be no menorah at all next year. I channelled my emotions into getting people to come along to the single lighting – to show the council how much it meant to people, to show them it’s about bringing light into our community. I was prepared to accept the situation. But what this has taught me is, don’t just accept something you know is wrong. Because just one week before Chanukah, I learned Havering Council had changed their mind again and were going to allow the erection of the especially made Menorah and it would be lit for the full eight days (including the planned public lighting). I am so thankful to all those who made this possible. I will never take for granted a public menorah again. This article was rewritten five times due to all the changes… this version is my favourite!

CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 13

Communities march side by side at the AJEX Parade By SIMON ROTHSTEIN

HE entire Essex Jewish community was represented at this year’s AJEX Annual Remembrance Parade and Ceremony 2023 at the Cenotaph in Whitehall. With the theme of ‘Side by Side’ – community members of all ages, backgrounds and denominations marched, walked or watched, side by side, in honour of the thousands of Jewish people who fought for our freedom. Taking place in the shadow of the rise in antisemitism in the UK, the event served as a powerful statement of solidarity and saw attendance double from previous years. The service was conducted by Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, AJEX Chaplain Rabbi Major Reuben Livingstone and Masorti Judaism’s Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg. Progressive Judaism was represented by Rabbi Rebecca Birk. Almost every synagogue and community in Essex took part – and we highlight a few here. Ashley Kissin and Jeff Ellis, both pictured wearing their late fathers’ medals, were among those from Romford Synagogue. Ashley told us: “It was an honour to take part in the AJEX Parade – especially marching past the many spectators lining

Whitehall clapping and cheering – and we look forward to participating again next year.” Ross Juggler and Lauren Juggler Crook of Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue were part of a group that included Joe Crook, a decorated serviceman of 25 years. Ross wore the medals of Papa Sam Juggler, who was in the Army Physical Training Corps in World War II and was on one of the last boats out of Dunkirk. Several members of East London & Essex Liberal Synagogue attended, including Fiona Hancock, who had the honour of being selected as a standard bearer. The Southend community came out in force with Southend and Westcliff Hebrew Congregation’s Derek Silverstone carrying their standard. Derek said: “Using the local Jewish Care minibus, we set out for Whitehall. With excellent forward planning by AJEX, we were able to progress through the tight security and park up in our designated place. “To our delight we were met by others who had come to the Parade and having family ties with Southend, joined our small band of marchers, in memory of loved ones and friends now departed.”

Local councils show their support

HE chair of Epping Forest District Council, Cllr Darshan Sungar, organised an evening to demonstrate the Council’s support for the Jewish community within the borough. This was followed by a lighting of candles in memory of all those murdered by Hamas terrorists on 7 October. Attendees included Council leader Cllr Chris Whitbread, Essex Jewish chair Phillip Leigh and Chabad’s Rabbi Odom Brandman and Rabbi Yossi Posen. Southend Borough Council also

Jami and Jewish Care – two becomes one

By MICAELA BLITZ

AMI – the Jewish mental health charity – and Jewish Care, the largest health and social care charity serving the community, have issued a statement to announce their merger. The two first came together 11 years ago to create a single mental health service for the Jewish community. Due to its success since, the Boards of both organisations felt that now was the right time to fully integrate their services. Jami chief executive Laurie Rackind will be stepping down from the role after 17 years of leading the charity, but will remain closely involved with the transition towards full integration of Jami services into Jewish Care over the coming months.

showed its solidarity by raising the Israeli flag at its Civic Centre. More than 80 people attended the moving ceremony, including Anna Firth MP, Southend Mayor Cllr Stephen Habermel, Southend and Westcliff Hebrew Community’s Rabbi Geoffrey Hyman and several members of the council. Rabbi Hyman recited Psalms 129 – which speaks of how “never have my attackers prevailed” – and 133, about how “brothers dwell together”. He said: “We are grateful to the City Council for this most meaningful gesture.”

Jewish Care’s CEO Daniel CarmelBrown confirmed that the Jami brand – which he says has “built up a fantastic reputation in the community over three decades” – will continue be used. He added: “Keeping the Jami name is a strong part of who they are and what the community relates to. This is an exciting opportunity for both organisations and comes at a time when mental health and its prevalence continues to grow each year.” Jewish Care is also committed to ensuring that Jami’s services remain unaffected by the integration – intending to transfer its 92 members of staff to the employment of Jewish Care, whilst also keeping every single one of its 280 volunteers. For the Essex community, all services will continue as before including the Jami hub in Redbridge which provides inperson and online activities and support to increase social connection. To find out more about any of Jami’s vital services, please call 020 8458 2223, email info@jamiuk.org or visit www.jamiuk.org.

Sandra Symons, Yael Bebb and Rosalyn Silverstone with the Southend standard

Ashley Kissin and Jeff Ellis of Romford Synagogue

Oaks Lane Reform’s Ross Juggler with Joe Crook

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News

Leytonstone Menorah celebrates its fifth year

s this issue of the Essex Jewish News was being printed, the Leytonstone Menorah was being lit for its fifth year. A rapt crowd was expected again to sample traditional doughnuts, latkes and steaming hot chocolate – with Leytonstone and Wanstead Synagogue’s Rabbi Yitzchok Austin leading the crowd of local shul members, visitors, friends and local dignitaries, including councillors and Waltham Forest Council representatives, in a communal Ma’oz Tzur and a Chanukah talk. Music was being provided by Stew Curtis’ Klezmer Without Borders comprising virtuoso jazz reedsman Stew Curtis (sax), Mark Adelman (keyboards),

Rabbi Dr Jonathan Romain to head Reform Judaism Beit Din

T Rabbi Yitzchok Austin at last year’s Leytonstone Chanukah lighting

Rob Rickenberg (bass) and Guy Schalom (drums). The Leytonstone Menorah was made using funds granted by Waltham Forest London Borough of Culture 2019 and with support from the Highways Agency. The 2023 street party was supported by the London Borough of Waltham Forest’s Communities and Participation Team; and the overall event organised by Leytonstone and Wanstead Synagogue – a small dynamic community based in Fillebrook Road, Leytonstone, East London. Menorah lightings have also been taking place in Southend, Ongar, Epping, Harlow, Gants Hill and elsewhere across Essex throughout Chanukah.

he Movement for Reform Judaism has appointed Rabbi Dr Jonathan Romain MBE as the new Convener of its Beit Din. One of Britain’s leading and most well-known rabbis, he will follow in the footsteps of Rabbi Jackie Tabick, who has retired after 11 exceptional years in the position. He said: “I have long regarded our Beit Din as the jewel in the Reform crown: helpful, caring and embodying the principle of a Progressive approach to Jewish life and problems – providing solutions to those wishing to convert, going through a difficult divorce or facing other issues, such as having a Jewish heritage but not Jewish status. “Anyone wrestling with these or other situations, who wants a caring rabbinic response, should approach their local Progressive rabbi in the knowledge of a thoughtful welcome. They can also contact me directly on rabbiromain@rjuk. org.” Rabbi Romain will work closely with Rabbi Mark Solomon, Chair of the Beit Din of Liberal Judaism, as the work of

bringing the two movements together as one Progressive Judaism for the UK continues. Rabbi Solomon said: “Jonathan has long been one of the most forwardthinking rabbis in the Reform Movement, especially in areas of personal status and family structures. I look forward to working with him in what will be a creative and exciting collaboration.”

Rabbi Dr Jonathan Romain

Chabad Young Jewish Rachel Riley Professionals Network ‘sells out’ in Southend growing in Essex R

YOUNG couple based in Buckhurst Hill, Max Persell and Serena Chanoch, have launched a series of events locally to engage other young Jewish adults. Aimed initially at 22-34 year olds, the Essex Young Jewish Professionals Network have hosted a range of successful events attended by more than 100 people. The first, back in July, was a Friday night dinner which was followed by a summer BBQ, a sushi in the Sukkah event with guest speaker, a dinner and discussion group and, most recently, a challah bake in support of Israel.

The final event this year will be a grand Chanukah Party held at Chabad Buckhurst Hill. The group is currently discussing plans to open up another division for 18-21 year olds, in response to concerns that there is little on offer in the Essex area for Jewish adults of this age group. To be involved please contact Chabad Buckhurst Hill and speak to Rabbi Odom Brandman or ask to be put in touch with Max or Serena. The group is open to ideas and volunteers to help plan and run events. Chabad Buckhurst Hill can be reached via www.chabadonthehill.co.uk.

ACHEL Riley MBE was the guest speaker for a ‘sold out’ lunch at Southend and Westcliff Hebrew Congregation (SWHC) on Jewish Women’s Aid Shabbat. SWHC functions chair Marilyn Salt described the Countdown star and antisemitism campaigner as “eloquent, knowledgeable and unpretentious”. The lunch, organised by Marilyn alongside the Ladies Guild, took place in the synagogue hall. The TV star – who has also appeared on Strictly Come Dancing and 8 out of 10 Cats – told how she grew up in Southend and how her mother’s family came to the UK to escape the pogroms. In 2018, she began a campaign against the way some prominent organisations and individuals were handling allegations of antisemitism and was awarded damages in two separate High Court cases after she brought action relating to hideous and abusive comments on

social media. Her work on Holocaust education was honoured with an MBE in the King’s 2023 New Year Honours list. Guests asked various questions and it stood out what a wonderful fighter she is in the war against antisemitism. Rachel Riley is an ambassador for, and keen supporter of, Jewish Women`s Aid and helps raise funds for the charity, which supports Jewish women and children affected by domestic abuse and violence. • IN a separate event, more than £4,000 was raised by serial fundraisers and SWHC members Marilyn and Stephen Salt. They put on an Israel Solidarity morning, with donations being split three ways. Stephen explained: “The money will go to Emunah to give comfort to those children affected by trauma after the terrorist attacks, to Kibbutzim Nahal Oz to help those who lived there, and to the IDF who desperately need warm clothing.”

Tribute concert for EJN’s Mark A

The Essex Young Profressionals network baking challah in support of Israel

tribute concert in memory of Mark and Sharon Harris will take place on Sunday 7 April 2024 at a prestigious venue in North West London. Mark was a bedrock of the Essex Jewish News and is deeply missed by the entire team. The heartfelt concert will be performed by The London Cantorial Singers – the choir to which Mark belonged for many years. The group have curated a new and captivating programme for the event.

All proceeds will support the Woolf Institute’s impactful training programme, Religious Diversity in End of Life Care, in which Mark and Sharon’s daughter – and EJN columnist – Dr Emma Harris is involved. She said: “We look forward to welcoming readers of the EJN to this tribute concert, a special occasion commemorating the cherished memory of my beloved parents.” To book a ticket, please visit www.bit.ly/3Gk89tC.

CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 15

Progressive Judaism roadshow comes to Essex R

ABBI Josh Levy and Rabbi Charley Baginsky – the co-leads of Progressive Judaism – will be coming to Essex in December to share updates on the unification of Reform and Liberal Judaism into one Progressive movement. The event will take place at Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue (previously known as SWESRS) in Newbury Park on Tuesday 19 December from 7.45pm. It is part of a countrywide tour that will see the Progressive leaders speak to the 83 Liberal and Reform communities across the country – in order to share their vision for the future and receive ideas, feedback and questions from members. Rabbi Josh Levy said: “We want to find out what communities are excited about; how we can help them to unlock their potential; what makes them thrive and how they can best benefit from our support. “And we can best do this by visiting

all communities both near and afar, so members of those communities can feel a part of the conversation and the changing face of Judaism.” Rabbi Charley Baginsky added: “One important element of this tour is for communities to see Josh and I together, presenting a united front, and to give people the opportunity to ask any questions and the freedom to express any fears and concerns they may have.” Members of Oaks Lane Reform will be joined by their fellow Progressive Jews in the area – including those from East London and Essex Liberal Synagogue and Sukkat Shalom Reform Synagogue – for the event. Guests who wish to find out more are also welcome. Oaks Lane’s Rabbi Jordan Helfman said: “Progressive Jews make up about a third of the British Jewish community. By coming together, the movements can create an increasingly meaningful presence in East London and Essex.

From Ukraine to South Woodford M OST people, when they receive guests, know who they are. But for Arnold Rose and his sister Evelyn Bardon their guest was a cousin whom they had never seen before. The cousin, Labe Stinerman, had come from Ukraine with his niece Anna and had called in on Evelyn at her home in South Woodford. Arnold said: “Our grandfather and Labe’s grandfather were brothers but we had never seen Labe before. Anna, who had been studying in Vienna for the past

three years, spoke English and translated what my distant cousin had to say.” He added: “Labe never spoke about the war situation in Ukraine and was more concerned about learning of his English relatives.” He had said that his wife had an extensive list of relatives around the world, many of whom the Ukrainian side of the family had never seen. Labe stayed with Evelyn and Arnold for a few hours and then continued with his holiday.

Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Josh Levy

“Locally, we already work together, and this joint project will give us the resources to get the message of inclusivity and welcome to the wider Jewish world. We look forward to

Ilford Federation man gets his medal

tanley Barclay has received his Nuclear Test Medal, issued by the UK Government to recognise the significant contribution of personnel who participated in Britain’s nuclear testing in the 1950s. As reported in a previous edition of the Essex Jewish News, Stanley, a member of Ilford Federation Synagogue, was in the RAF doing his National Service when he was posted to Christmas Island in the Pacific Ocean where tests were taking place. The medals – announced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak – recognise the military, civilian and overseas staff and personnel who participated in the nuclear testing programme of the 1950s and 1960s. The honour has comes as a result of a decades-long campaign. The design on the reverse of the medal features an atom surrounded by olive branches.

Social events back at Sukkat Shalom

Arnold Rose (left), his Ukrainian cousin Labe, Anna and Evelyn

welcoming more and more members to our communities of purpose.” For more details, and to attend, please visit www.swesrs.org.uk/event/ progressive-judaism-roadshow/

ukkat Shalom Reform Synagogue in Wanstead held a games afternoon in October – the first event at the shul, other than simchas and services, since Covid. A Sukkat Shalom spokesperson told us: “We were delighted that 30 people came and enjoyed playing Kalooki, Scrabble, Klobiosh and Rummikub. “It was lovely to see people who by their own admission do not come to the synagogue very often, but felt that a Sunday afternoon event after so long not going out was something not to be missed.” The games afternoon was part of the restart of Sukkat Shalom’s social events programme, which also included a November quiz in aid of Israeli families that saw 96 people attend and raised more than £1,000.

Stanley Barclay proudly wears his Nuclear Test Medal

Café Chabad Kosher takeaways are back

HABAD has relaunched its Café Chabad, starting with a very successful Kosher takeaway event. A spokesperson said: “More than 70 collections of a delicious kosher salt beef sandwich and latkes were picked up by hungry Essex Jews. “With many thanks to the in-house volunteer catering team led by Laraine Warren, there are plans to do many more over the coming months, next up is shawarma.”

16 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023

Sal’s long-lost diary Cookery opens new window into the war years C By SHELLEY POSNER

By PAT LIDIKER

N 1940, 15-year-old Salman ‘Sal’ Muller had to flee the Antwerp home he shared with his mother and sister, as he tried to evade the imminent Nazi invasion of Belgium. He cycled over 300 miles through Belgium and France, eventually reaching Le Havre with very little money and the bicycle his only possession. He managed to sail by boat to Southampton and was taken to the Norwood home for Jewish children in London. It was here that a passion for football, both playing and watching, was nurtured and never left him. This young schoolboy also quickly learned the arts of enterprise, resourcefulness and independence. Sal’s father George was born in South Africa and came with his family to Holland after being taken prisoner by the British in the Boer War. He and his Dutch wife Sophie married in Amsterdam in 1920 before later moving to Antwerp. George died in 1935, aged only 40, but it was the British passport he was given during this period – and which Sal also then had – that allowed the teenager to come to England and ultimately saved his life. In 1943, now an adult, Sal made another momentous decision and joined the 320 Squadron of the Royal Netherlands Air Force – taking part in missions overseas. Eighty years later, his son Geoffrey Muller, of Harold Wood, and grandson Scott Muller have published a book honouring his extraordinary life. That this coincides with yet a further worldwide upsurge in antisemitism is a bitter irony. Sal died in Israel in 1997, aged 72, after an eventful life lived to the full, the details of which became even more extraordinary with by the discovery of his wartime

diary which had been lying unseen for over 80 years. He had already written a memoir of his later years and his family decided to publish both together. The diary was discovered when Scott visited his grandmother Fay at her flat in Westcliffon-Sea, while she was perusing told photos. He spotted a brown envelope containing 162 pages of his grandfather’s wartime exploits from May 1940 to August 1945, all written in Dutch. In an exclusive interview, Geoffrey – a member of Sukkat Shalom Reform Synagogue in Wanstead – told me: “We are a very close family but had no idea of the diary’s existence until then. I contacted a cousin in Amsterdam, Rikja Pais, who willingly translated it into English. And as we read it, we could see a young boy growing into a man.” The result is a 434-page book, titled Aim for the Top – a fascinating and poignant read. It tells how Sal flew 29 missions as a rear gunner in a Mitchell bomber but was badly injured while returning from a raid over Holland. Admitted to hospital he had emergency treatment on his leg but, determined as ever, once discharged he returned to active service. By this time his mother and sister Fre, who also held British passports, were exchanged for Germans living in the UK and settled in London – where the family reunited after the war. Sadly, when the Dutch authorities tried to trace other members of their very large family, they found that 70 of them were murdered in the Nazi concentration camps. Once the war was over, Sal tried to make a living in various roles including as a diamond polisher, fruiterer and waiter. He later became a successful businessman. He met his wife Fay at a dance and they were married in Brixton Synagogue 1948. They had two children - Geoffrey and his sister Hilary - and and went on to live in Plaistow, Elm Park, Gidea Park and Westcliff-on-Sea… and with each change of address Sal’s precious diary moved with them! At her Westcliff flat, Fay Muller explained the complexities of her late husband’s background to the EJN. She said: “He was born in Antwerp in 1924 to a Dutch mother and South African father with British passports instrumental in saving their lives when war broke out. “Most people have a story to tell but Sal wrote his down, and that’s why we can share his remarkable life.” • Aim for the Top is available now from Amazon and all good bookshops. Proceeds will be donated to Kidney Cancer UK, of which Geoffrey is a survivor.

HANUKAH is my favourite festival of the year! Somehow the menorah always shows us the beauty of light even in the deepest depths of a cold dark winter. This year, I have given you a starter maybe you haven’t tried before. It looks far more complicated than it actually is and is a light and tasty opener. For our main course, the fish goujons are fried in a minimal amount of oil – but still the use of which reminds us of the meaning of the festival – and go great with latkes. Whatever meal you have this Chanukah, I hope you have fun with your family and friends around your own candle-lit table. Chag Sameach.

tube until you have a smooth paste. You may need to add more oil to adjust the consistency. Taste to check the flavour. To serve, place one mushroom rounded side down onto the baking sheet. Top with a layer of pesto, one slice of mozzarella, one piece of pepper, another slice of mozzarella and one slice of tomato. Season well and drizzle more pesto over the top. Pop back under the grill for a few minutes so that the cheese starts to melt then serve at once on a bed of rocket leaves.

PORTOBELLO PESTO STACKS:

This delicious dish can be made either as a starter or a light lunch, and is easy to prepare. It’s not essential to marinate the mushrooms if you are in a hurry but it does give an extra flavour to the dish. You can use shop bought pesto but homemade is much nicer! Marinade: 1/2 cup olive oil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 2 garlic cloves crushed Juice of 1/2 a lemon Salt and pepper Portobello: 2 large Portobello mushrooms 2 sprigs of thyme 1 pinch of garlic salt 1 pinch of smoked paprika Juice of 1/2 a lemon 1 good drizzle of olive oil 1 ball of mozzarella cheese 1 small red pepper 1 large beef tomato ends trimmed and cut into two thick slices Salt and pepper Rocket leaves (or similar) to garnish Pesto: 30g basil – 1 bunch 15g Parmesan cheese 25g pine nuts or hazel nuts 50ml light olive oil Juice of 1/2 a lemon Salt and pepper Whisk together all the marinade ingredients in a bowl until it forms an emulsion. Pour the marinade over the mushrooms and set aside. Slice the red pepper in half and place on a foil lined baking sheet along with the tomato slices. Brush with olive oil and place under a medium heat grill for 8-10 minutes until softened. Remove from the grill and set aside. Meanwhile take the mushrooms from the marinade and place on the same baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper, the garlic salt and the paprika. Sprinkle with the thyme leaves stripped from their stalks and drizzle over the olive oil and lemon juice rubbing it well in. Pop the tray back under the grill for 7-8 minutes until the mushrooms are softening. Cut the mozzarella into slices. Now make the pesto – strip the basil leaves from their stalks and put into a food processor along with everything except the oil. Turn the motor on and drizzle the oil slowly down the feeder

FISH GOUJONS:

You need to use a chunky white fish for this recipe such as cod or haddock. I prefer to use panko breadcrumbs which give a lighter coating that stays crispy for longer, but you can use other breadcrumbs or a mixture with medium matza meal. This recipe will serve around four people. 500g white fish fillets skinned 4 sprigs of dill, leaves stripped from stalks 100g panko breadcrumbs 4 tbsp plain flour 2 eggs beaten Salt and pepper A knob of butter Sunflower oil for frying Slice the fish into long chunks around a fish finger size. Sprinkle lightly with salt then cover them and place in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to firm up. Finely chop the dill and mix it with the breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl. Put the flour into another bowl and season it with salt and pepper. Put the beaten eggs into a third bowl. Take the fish from the fridge and blot with kitchen paper. Dust the fish pieces first in flour, shaking off any excess, then into the egg making sure all the sides are coated. Drip off any excess egg then drop the fish pieces into the breadcrumbs and cover them completely. It’s easiest to do this two at a time. Over a medium heat place enough oil to generously coat the bottom of a large frying pan. When hot, shallowfry the fish on either side for around 3 minutes. Add the butter towards the end of the cooking time to get the fish crispy and golden. Drain on kitchen paper and scatter with a pinch of sea salt flakes before serving at once.

CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 17

VIEW FROM THE SIDELINES

By MANNY ROBINSON

What’s in a name?

WAS talking to someone recently and asked him what synagogue he belonged to. He replied “Coventry Road’”. “But there is no shul in Coventry Road,” I said. “The Federation synagogue left there some 14 years ago and moved to Clarence Avenue near Gants Hill.” “I know, but I still call it Coventry Road,” he insisted. I couldn’t argue with that! I am a long-standing member of the former Ilford Synagogue, now Cranbrook United Synagogue. I, and many like me, still call it Beehive Lane. The community at South West Essex and Settlement Reform Synagogue have, this year, gone one step further and

officially changed its name to Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue. Nearly all the shuls I remember in the old East End – many of them long closed – are named after streets while nearly all Jewish cemeteries are named after districts. Just think of Fieldgate Street, Sandys Row, Adler Street, Nelson Street, Great Garden Street, Settle Street, Cannons Row, Vine Court and Princelet Street – all synagogues or former synagogues in the old Jewish East End. Yet the cemeteries are in Rainham, East Ham, Waltham Abbey, Goffs Oak, Bushey, Edmonton and Streatham! Bill Gladstone, a genealogist in Toronto, has made a special study of how

shuls got their names. He wrote that Jews from Poland, Romania, Lithuania, Germany, Holland and Russia coming to Britain at the end of the 19th century wanted to daven in shtiebles with their own people. They felt more comfortable worshipping together with men from their own towns and villages who pronounced Hebrew in the same dialect and were familiar with the tunes that they sang. And so we got Romanian, Polish, Russian, Lithuanian, Dutch and German shtiebles. Another possible reason is that most of the immigrants spoke little English and it was easier to write down the name of a street rather than a synagogue name. Find the street or show the slip of paper to a passer-by and ask for directions… and you find the synagogue! A third possibility is that the worshippers were frightened of putting up a sign in Hebrew announcing that it was a Jewish place of worship in case they were targeted by racists. So, while few people had ever heard of the East London Central Synagogue they immediately recognised it by its alternative name – Nelson Street. The Great Synagogue (now closed) was known as Duke’s Place; the long

closed Peace and Tranquillity Synagogue was Mansell Street, the New Synagogue in Hackney was called Egerton Road while Waltham Forest Hebrew Congregation was affectionately known as Boundary Road. The list could go on and on. Much of that has now changed, of course. Although some, mainly elderly, worshippers still refer fondly to Ilford Federation as Coventry Road and – like me – Cranbrook Synagogue as Beehive Lane, nearly all the shuls in the area are now known by their official titles. In fact, I’ve seen the reverse happening with people preferring to call Oaks Lane by its previously acronym of SWESRS. Look in this issue of the Essex Jewish News, and you will find among others Sukkat Shalom, East London and Essex Liberal, New Essex Masorti, Romford and District, Chabad Buckhurst Hill, Epping and Gants Hill, Chelmsford, Chigwell and Hainault, Chingford, Harlow, Leytonstone and Wanstead, Loughton, Romford, Southend and Westcliff, Harold Hill and Woodford Forest Synagogues. But then all those years ago our great-grandparents or great-greatgrandparents didn’t have sat navs!

PICTURE CAPTIONS: 1. The interior of Waltham Forest Hebrew Congregation, affectionately known as Boundary Road Shul 2. Nelson Street Synagogue or its proper name East London Central Synagogue 3 Sandys Row Synagogue in the East End of London 4. The interior of Cranbrook United synagogue... or as it is more popularly known Beehive Lane

What about my claims?

CCORDING to a BBC report, a United Nations judge has said that the UK is likely to owe more than £18 million in reparations for its historic role in transatlantic slavery. Hey, that gives me an idea… Can I claim reparations from Russia for the sufferings my great-great-grandparents endured – including murder, pillage, and 25 year terms of service in the Tsar’s army starting before their barmitzvah. Of course, the borders were constantly changing: one week it was Russia, the next Poland – so I think I will apply not only to both countries,

According to the Jewish Virtual Library, the Russian and Polish civil and military authorities turned a blind eye and occasionally provided secret or open support as Jews were attacked and their property destroyed. Every Jew in those countries was a slave. Every Jew was in the Pale of Settlement had their movements restricted. No Jew could go to university and all Jews were purposely kept in poverty. And I haven’t even mentioned the pogroms! I know President Putin currently has other things on his mind, but if he cares to send me a cheque with a few thousand roubles it would be gratefully received.

Canine-a-hora!

HAVE never had the pleasure of owning a dog, but some of my relatives and friends have a canine friend. To them the pet is an integral part of the family and I can understand the warm relationship between owner and animal. But what happens if you are strictly observant? Must you feed your animal kosher food? Well, as I understand it, unless you are planning to take a chunk of your dog’s food for your own lunch, the dog food doesn’t have to be kosher: it doesn’t make your home any less kosher.

But that has provided me with a puzzle. What about Pesach? Almost any kind of pet food you buy is going to be chametz which is clearly prohibited to have in your possession or in your home. Chametz is any food product made from wheat, barley, rye, oats or spelt that has come into contact with water and been allowed to ferment or ‘rise’. And what about fish, either goldfish or tropical fish at Pesach? They can, I understand, go without food for a week. Is that the answer? Perhaps some kind rabbi will enlighten me before our Pesach edition.

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18 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023

The Interfaith

By DR EMMA HARRIS

PERSPECTIVE

RECENTLY experienced my first longhaul flight to the US in many years (I am more used to express travel via Ryanair). The journey itself was not particularly memorable but, as the plane descended into Salt Lake City airport, I was mesmerised by the spectacular landscape; in the last vestiges of the glowing sun, the mountains towered majestically over the city. It was breathtaking. I thought to myself, when God created the world, he certainly blessed Utah. I was excited to be there alongside the Woolf Institute’s Executive Director, Dr Esther-Miriam Wagner. In the terminal building, we walked towards the baggage carousel and were greeted by an array of airport personnel welcoming us to Utah. Weird and slightly disconcerting. I certainly could not imagine such smiley faces and warm welcomes on our return trip through Heathrow Airport. Waiting for us at arrivals was one of our hosts and Woolf alumnus, Dr Andy Reed. Isn’t it heartwarming when there is someone waiting for you at arrivals? I always think of the beautiful sequence of hugs and cries of joy in the packed arrivals hall scene at the beginning of the film, Love Actually. It really was touching to be welcomed by Andy, who isn’t just a Woolf alumnus or a colleague but has become a friend. Together with his wife, Kaylyn, he whisked us off for some authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Dinner was a welcome distraction from the tiredness we felt from the long journey. Miriam and I were staying in Provo, home to Brigham Young University (BYU), founded and guided by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The longevity of our association with colleagues from BYU is very special and created bonds of true friendship. In the early days of the Woolf, Dr Paul Kerry joined as a Visiting Fellow and was followed later by Andy who was part of the first cohort of the MSt in The Study of Jewish-Christian Relations in 2006. Andy has been and is an incredible ambassador for the Woolf. He has continued with interfaith work at BYU, chairing its Council for Interfaith Engagement and organising and participating in the Jewish-Latter-day

Emma and Kathryn

The happy reunion with BYU students and staff

Saint academic dialogue. Together with Paul and Dr Jordan Watkins, Andy now escorts groups of students to Cambridge for our Summer School, Religion and Society from the Medieval to the Modern. Paul had invited us to Utah to attend the 30th Law and Religion symposium organised by BYU Law but before the event commenced, we had a full itinerary on campus prepared by Andy. I taught a session on Shabbat observance for Andy’s World Religions module. At the beginning of the class, I told the students that over the years, I have learnt that to have meaningful interfaith dialogue is to understand the individual you are speaking to. In Barbara Brown Taylor’s book Holy Envy – recommended to me by one of our alumna and BYU student, Janai – we are reminded that “when trying to understand another religion, you should ask the adherents of that religion and not its enemies”. Right from the start, I hoped the students would feel comfortable to ask me any question and indeed they did. I wanted them to hear about my familial traditions and what makes Shabbat the centrepiece of Jewish life. In the next session – Andy’s Interfaith Leadership module – Miriam and I discussed various research, teaching and public engagement projects at the Woolf. I focused on our Diversity in End of Life Care training programme and our teaching within the Cambridge Theological Federation, both aspects being very close to my heart. I explained to the group that I am often the only Jew in the classroom or on the training session which I have found to be a blessing. Not only am I able to offer

the Jewish perspective but I can provide a safe space for any question to be asked. Thoughtful questions were posed by the group including: In the workplace or neighbourhood, how do I deal with being part of a minority faith? How do I express my religious views without causing discomfort to those around me? What can BYU students – as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – take on board when engaging with wider society? Has my interfaith work changed the way I see my own faith? That last question, in particular, affected me. I was taught that, in Orthodox Judaism, men are generally not allowed to hear women sing, a prohibition I have always abided by. But recently, I organised a Friday night Shabbat meal for the Summer School cohort – this was an interfaith event and I wanted the students (and staff) to engage in the full Shabbat experience. For me, that meant incorporating beautiful melodies into the programme. My late Dad was a chorister and my late Mum loved to hear me sing. It was as if they were with me at the dinner as they prided themselves on opening the door to their home to receive those who come from different faiths or none, to share our world with others. If we don’t show our true selves, why should others respect us and our beliefs? Miriam and I were delighted to meet up with many students who have taken in person and online programmes with us. It was enlightening to hear how our programmes have benefitted them, both individually and collectively through work in the interfaith council and elsewhere, specific areas of their studies and in their professional lives for those who have completed their degrees.

There was a surprise for me at the reunion – Kathryn, a student from 200911, attended with her husband. We have been in touch since 2011 when I joined the Woolf but had not seen each other since she returned to the States. What an emotional moment – it had been 12 years – but it reminded me that there are no barriers in friendship. We come from very different backgrounds and yet despite this and the distance between us, our bond has grown stronger and stronger over the years. Seeing Kathryn in person made the trip to Utah even more special, beyond words can say. As Miriam and I took a few days away from campus, we hiked through Rock Canyon with the autumn leaves changing from green to vibrant reds and oranges, I felt a real sense of calm, as if a weight had been lifted from my shoulders. What is very striking about BYU, and Utah in general, is how friendly people are; they are genuinely kind and decent. They are very welcoming, and hospitality plays a key role. As part of a minority faith, I ask that none of us are quick to judge the faith of our neighbour. There are good and bad individuals in all faiths; there are aspects we can agree on, others we can agree to disagree, and it is important to have the difficult conversations, both in interfaith and intrafaith. One thing is very clear and the key for a more affable future. We can be friends; we can form lasting bonds. We can welcome each other into our communities and workplaces. We can show hospitality and still be true to our own faith without compromising our own identity.

FOCUS ON

CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 19

New Essex Masorti Synagogue (NEMS)

also support local Jewish charities, the Epping Forest Foodbank and provide a caring welfare service.

I think a lot of readers may not really know what Masorti Judaism is, could you explain it? I would say it is the Judaism where services are traditionally observant, but with a modern approach.

What is your favourite thing about NEMS? I think it has to be the closeness of the community. This was really highlighted during lockdown with lots of activities being held online, which really helped us feel connected

uliette Carter speaks to Susan Geist about the only Masorti community in Essex and why shefeels it is right for her and her family.

Women are counted in the minyan, they can be called up for an Aliyah and seating is mixed but the services are in Hebrew and follow a traditional format. For me, it means I feel like I count. I’m a full and valued part of the inclusive community. Also, as the mum of two sons, I can sit with them during services and activities. Why did you join New Essex Masorti Synagogue in particular? We chose NEMS because it felt warm and welcoming. They have services both on Shabbat evenings (informal, followed by sharing a meal together) and Shabbat mornings (at shul, traditional, with everyone participating). I love that most of the service is sung, something I wasn’t used to from my progressive Judaism background. I felt included and quickly became involved as people were so friendly. It was lovely to become part of that. We joined over 20 years ago, at the time it was just the two of us, but we have become a family and our children are part of the community too. I have fond memories of the kids at Purim and Chanukah parties, bar/bat mitzvahs and of course my own son’s bar mitzvah. The services are led either by a Masorti Rabbi or our lay leaders, there are talks and activities for all members to get involved in. The shul community

I remember one night, during Chanukah 2020, we hosted a virtual candle lighting service and we were pleased to be joined by so many NEMS members. To entertain everyone, we made a family band and sung Chanukah songs online with people.

Juliette Carter with her family

Our family also hosted several of Havdalah services during the pandemic, they were fun and our Rabbi held the most beautiful virtual Kabbalat Shabbat services throughout lockdown too. I remember singing along while laying our table at home. What would you say to other people who might be new to the area and looking for a Shul to join? NEMS isn’t the biggest community but it’s full of heart. To anyone thinking of coming to see for themselves, I’d say find the next community event, special Shabbat, or, let’s be honest, any event with food… and come along It’s observant, respectful, inclusive and friendly and I think it suits the way that a lot of people in the area practise Judaism – traditional but with modern values. I am looking forward to seeing you there! • To contact NEMS about events, services or membership – please visit www.nemsynagogue.co.uk, email nemasorti@hotmail.com or call 07922 090180.

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Last year’s NEMS Purim party

A Communal candle lighting for Chanukah last year

20 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5784/DECEMBER 2023

Repairing the World on Mitzvah Day Ilford Federation Synagogue at Jewish Care’s Vi & John Rubens House

Happy Mitzvah Day cards created by Jami members and volunteers

Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School collecting for Camp Simcha

ITZVAH Day proved its ability to bring people together, even in the toughest of times, by uniting all faiths and none in social action and winning the support and participation of the UK’s political leaders. A project took place inside 10 Downing Street – where Akshata Murty, the wife of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, joined with Jewish and Muslim women to write Christmas cards for the staff at St John’s Hospice – while Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Liberal Democrat head Sir Ed Davey volunteered at their local synagogues. In total, 35,000 people in the UK, from more than 450 organisations, took part in a total of 2,000 projects encompassing food bank collections, care home visits, cooking for those in need, litter picks and much more. In Essex, a mix of young and old put on their green or black Mitzvah Day T-shirts to do good deeds for others and live up to this year’s theme of Repair the World. Pupils at Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School and Clore Tikva Primary School collected for the Camp Simcha Toy Drive – donating new games, teddies, Lego sets, action figures, books and other fun presents, ready to be delivered to children in hospital over the festive season. Students and parents of both schools also held collections for other charities, including Chabad Aid and a local food bank. Southend and District Reform Synagogue and Chelmsford Jewish Community teamed up for a Mitzvah Day Quiz in aid of Israel with quizmaster Celia Riley. A number of activities revolved around Jewish Care. Jami members and volunteers created gorgeous cards to send to care home residents, as part of a joint Mitzvah Day project between the two charities. In addition to the cards, residents also received wrapped homemade biscuits by members of the Redbridge Jewish Community Centre.

Ilford Federation Synagogue volunteers visited Jewish Care’s Vi & John Rubens House to chat, play the piano, sing, and exchange stories about the East End with residents. Everyone then joined together to celebrate King Charles’ 75th birthday. Mitzvah Day fun at East London and Essex Liberal Synagogue included singing, bingo and a visit to the Uniting Friends day care facility, in Gants Hill, for people of all faiths who have additional needs. Woodford Forest United Synagogue will be doing their good deed on Christmas Day by helping out at Whipps Cross Hospital. Looking back over the day, Mitzvah Day CEO Stuart Diamond said: “In this time of division, pain, anger, and sadness, I am struck by the astonishing contribution of light and love created by our participating organisations and volunteers in Essex and all over the country. “By continuing to reach out to our neighbours of all faiths and none in warmth, kindness and in friendship we have played our role in starting the repair of our fractured and grieving world.” Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis also paid tribute to all those who took part. He said: “The world needs repairing, societies need repairing, mind sets need improvement, and I therefore am grateful to every person and every community who did their bit this Mitzvah Day to contribute towards a better society and a better world.” Progressive Judaism Co-Lead Rabbi Josh Levy helped to pack and sort items for the JW3 Foodbank, alongside Jewish and Muslim volunteers of all ages. The event was filmed by Sky News and the BBC. He said: “The power of Mitzvah Day is that it puts our Jewish values into action. And, as I saw first-hand, it also helps to create, develop and deepen vital connections both within and across faiths. This work is now more important than ever.”

East London and Essex Liberal Synagogue at the Uniting Friends facility

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