THE Jewish communities of Harlow and Chelmsford have merged to form the new Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community (HCJC), creating a brand-new congregation for Essex and East Hertfordshire.
The new synagogue will have a membership of more than 300 adults/ families and will be led spiritually by Rabbi Irit Shillor. It will affiliate to The Movement for Progressive Judaism.
HCJC will serve a number of areas with members already coming from Harlow, Epping, Bishop’s Stortford, Chelmsford, Braintree, Dunmow, Saffron Walden, Maldon and their surroundings.
It offers a well-located synagogue building, hybrid services, popular rabbi, busy cheder, pastoral care, membership of the Jewish Joint Burial Society and
inclusive practice, including a welcome of mixed-faith couples and families.
The history of Harlow Jewish Community stretches back to its formation in 1952, just a few years after Harlow was designated a New Town, and it has been a thriving presence ever since. It has been affiliated to Reform/Progressive Judaism since 1960.
Chelmsford Jewish Community was established in 1974 and has played a key role in religious life in the city for 50+ years. It was not previously affiliated to any movement.
Shabbat and festival services will be held both online and in the synagogue building, based in central Harlow. Events in Chelmsford – including an annual celebration at the Essex County Cricket Ground – will also continue.
This year, a first night communal Seder will take place in Chelmsford with a second in Harlow. A celebratory ‘get to know you’ event is being planned for the spring/ summer.
Jon Kaye, Chair of Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community and previously Harlow Jewish Community, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that after a year of friendly discussions, we have combined these two Essex communities which comprise members from this county and the eastern side of Hertfordshire.
“From the very beginning, everyone continued to be enthusiastic about coming to an arrangement where we could provide a synagogue, a rabbi, cheder, services and social occasions for the combined community without restricting local events close to where members live.”
Stan Keller, Chair of Chelmsford Jewish Community and now Vice President of Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community, said: “With a combined history of over 125 years, the Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community builds on very strong foundations and relationships.
“This new community will pride itself on offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere for its members, and a high level of engagement with local civic society and other faith groups.”
Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community will welcome all Jews, as well as non-Jewish partners and family members. Services are conducted in Hebrew and English and made as accessible as possible, with everyone sitting together. There is a cheder and B’ Mitzvah programme for young people, and conversion pathways for adults looking to become Jewish.
Cheryl Petar, President of Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community, said: “We welcome every person and family that wants to join us on their and our Jewish journey, regardless of background, religious practice and Jewish knowledge.”
Jewish Care’s incredible care and community campus
By PAT LIDIKER
THE finishing touches are being made to The Sugar & Ronson Campus, set to open in Redbridge in summer 2026.
Jewish Care’s landmark hub will transform the way the charity cares for, connects with and reaches out to the Jewish community in Essex and north east London, bringing its services under
one roof in a modern, inclusive and welcoming space.
Our never-before-seen photos show the outside of the purpose-built care and community campus … and we can’t wait to take you through the doors in future issues.
Jewish Care CEO Daniel CarmelBrown said: “The build and finish stage is
complete in The Sugar Family Care Home and the final touches are being made to The Ronson Community Centre and The Dennis Centre for people living with dementia.
“We are looking forward to opening the new first-class Sugar & Ronson Campus this summer, and seeing our long-held vision become a reality.”
Let’s get rabbi to rumble
By MICAELA BLITZ
WHEN Rabbi Rafi Goodwin first took up boxing as a hobby, he could hardly have imagined it would one day lead him into the ring. Although he may be better known for his sermons than his right hooks, the ‘Boxing Rabbi’ of Chigwell and Hainault Synagogue will be stepping between the ropes this April to take part in a whitecollar boxing match.
Speaking to the Essex Jewish News, he explained: “It started when a member of the community convinced me to try boxing training at a local gym run by Team Macattack. I really enjoyed it, and found that it has been great for my fitness and wellbeing. When my instructor suggested I take part in a bout, I thought, ‘Why not?’”
The event, which will take place at the Sir James Hawkey Hall in Woodford on Sunday 26 April, sees amateur fighters come together to test their skills in front of a live audience. The evening will also include entertainment, with a comedian and singer performing before the main event.
The Orthodox rabbi is taking on the challenge in aid of the Community Security Trust (CST), raising funds for the organisation’s work protecting Jewish communities across the UK. He has been regularly training over the last few months and is hoping the community will be firmly in his corner for a memorable evening.
“I’m not sure whether it’s a mid-life crisis or just wanting a new challenge,” he joked. “But I’m really looking forward to stepping into the ring, and I hope plenty of people from the community will come along to cheer me on.”
If you would like to support the Boxing Rabbi, please get in touch by emailing rabbirafi@chigshul.org.uk.
Council members of the two communities come together to celebrate the merger
Rabbi Rafi Goodwin in training
The Essex Jewish News is the newspaper of the Jewish community in Essex and is published by Essex Jewish News Ltd.
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JLGB Chief Executive Neil Martin appointed CBE
By SIMON ROTHSTEIN
NEIL Martin, Chief Executive of the Jewish Lads’ & Girls’ Brigade (JLGB), has been appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the New Year Honours List.
Neil – who grew up in Gants Hill and now lives in South Woodford – has been recognised for ‘national service to young people, interfaith relations and Holocaust remembrance’.
This distinction elevates him from the OBE he received in 2016, recognising two decades of his sustained national impact.
Fittingly, this year marks the 20th anniversary of Neil’s appointment as Chief Executive of JLGB – a time during which he has transformed the UK’s oldest Jewish youth charity into an award-winning national exemplar of inclusive, culturally sensitive youth provision – enabling tens of thousands of disadvantaged and minority young people to thrive and contribute to British society without compromising their
religious or cultural identity.
His tenure has reshaped faith and culturally sensitive youth provision across the UK through major national initiatives, including expansion of kosher and Shabbat-compliant Duke of Edinburgh’s Award access, now a rite of passage for over 50% of Jewish teenagers each year.
Since 2011, Neil has served as Chair of Yom HaShoah UK, the Jewish community’s annual Holocaust memorial day, revitalising national Holocaust remembrance and setting new standards for intergenerational commemoration.
On 23 April 2025, he produced the UK’s National 80th Anniversary Commemoration of the liberation of Bergen-Belsen by the British Army – an event of historic civic significance held outside Parliament in Victoria Tower Gardens, the proposed site of the new National Holocaust Memorial. The ceremony brought together over 4,000 in-person attendees and more than 500,000 online viewers.
Neil also chairs the Interfaith Youth Trust, which supports grassroots interfaith projects across the UK. Through this work, Neil has become one of the UK’s most influential leaders in faithbased and culturally sensitive youth work, shaping national practice far beyond the Jewish community.
Neil, a member of Woodford Forest United Synagogue, said: “I am profoundly humbled by this honour. More than an individual achievement, it reflects the dedication of the young people, volunteers, survivors, colleagues
TWO further honours for our region came when Robert Rams was appointed MBE for political and public service and Daniel Levy was awarded a CBE for services to charity and the community in Tottenham.
Robert’s career spans more than 20 years in UK politics and public policy, with senior roles in Parliament, the London Assembly and Government. He has served as a Special Adviser at DEFRA, Head of Office for the Conservatives on the London Assembly – where he worked closely with then Mayor Boris Johnson – and Head of the Leader of the Opposition’s Office for Kemi Badenoch.
and partners who make this vital work possible, and whom I am so privileged to work alongside. JLGB shaped who I am, and every day I remain inspired by the next generation.
“In a time when community and resilience matter more than ever, I remain deeply committed to ensuring the lessons of the past, combined with the energy and spirit of today’s young people, help shape a stronger and brighter future for us all.”
Robert, who grew up in Southend and was a member of Southend and Westcliff Hebrew Congregation, is widely recognised for his work building constructive engagement between politicians, institutions and local communities.
He said: “I’m incredibly honoured and proud to have been awarded an MBE. It has been a privilege to work at all levels of government, alongside colleagues and communities who care deeply about public service and making a difference.
“I’m grateful to the many people I’ve had the opportunity to work with and for over the years, and to everyone who has supported me along the way.”
Daniel served as Chair of Tottenham Hotspur FC from February 2001 until September 2025, becoming the Premier League’s longest-serving executive in that role. During that time, he worked very closely on charity and local community projects – using sport to try and change lives.
Daniel said: “Tottenham Hotspur has always been more than a football club to me. It is part of the fabric of the local community, and I am immensely proud of the role we have played in helping to regenerate the area through our initiatives in education, employment, health and social inclusion.
“While our stadium development and on-pitch results often took the headlines, I hope that my legacy will be the positive and lasting impact we have made on the lives of people in Tottenham and beyond. Football clubs have a unique role to play in their local community and at Tottenham Hotspur we always took this responsibility very seriously.”
Robert Rams MBE with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch
Neil Martin CBE
It’s a rap for John Barnes at Sports Dinner
By PAT LIDIKER
TWO HUNDRED guests attended Jewish Care’s Redbridge Sports Dinner where they heard former England and Liverpool legend, John Barnes MBE, in conversation with Matt Lorenzo.
The event raised more than £80,000 to go towards The Sugar & Ronson Campus, which opens this summer to serve the Jewish community in Essex and north-east London.
Liverpool and England legend John Barnes, celebrated as one of football’s greatest players, won two league titles and two FA Cups with Liverpool and earned 79 caps for his country.
He delighted guests at the event when he performed the rap from New Order’s World in Motion, which reached number one in the charts in 1990 for the FIFA World Cup, making football history away from the pitch.
Committee Chair, Andrew Klein, said: “We are so grateful to both David
SOMETIMES help comes quietly… but it can make all the difference.
The City of Southend Jewish Community Support (COSJCS) initiative has released its 2025 public report, showing just how vital its role has become as a safety net for vulnerable households across the area.
Formed in 2023, COSJCS has already handled 61 emergency grant applications, including 19 new cases in 2025 alone. Applications come from all corners of the local Jewish community, reflecting both the breadth of need and the trust the organisation has built in a remarkably short time.
The report highlights an oftenoverlooked reality: many Jewish residents in Southend identify culturally or ethnically as Jewish but are not
Standing with those who stand for us
ON a cold, rain-soaked evening, the home of Loughton Shul’s Philip and Ruth Leigh was filled with warmth as it hosted a deeply moving event with the Givati Brigade Association, led by its CEO Itzhak Levitt.
The Association is a charity that supports the men and women of Israel’s Givati Brigade, preserving their history, assisting injured soldiers, and providing care and support to bereaved families.
The evening, titled ‘Last In, Last Out’, captured the spirit of the Brigade and set the tone for an unforgettable night.
Itzhak provided rare and powerful insight into the Association’s work on behalf of the brave men and women of the Givati Brigade. Beyond their battlefield service, the Association preserves the history and legacy of those who have served, supports injured soldiers, and walks closely with bereaved families carrying the weight of loss.
Through stories and video clips, attendees witnessed the extraordinary heroism of October 7th and its aftermath, including acts of courage under fire, near-miraculous lifesaving moments, and the unwavering determination of soldiers who were truly ‘last in, last out’ in protecting lives.
Following the presentation, Itzhak held an extended Q&A session, responding with warmth, humour, and insight to thoughtful and challenging questions, leaving a strong impression on all present.
The Association’s ongoing work, from annual Shabbatons to continuous family support, ensures that every soldier and every family remains connected, embraced, and never forgotten.
Rabbi Yanky Abrams of Loughton Synagogue said: “We are deeply grateful to all who braved the winter night to attend and show their support. Together, we stand with those who stand for us.”
and Matt, for giving up their time to be with us and for keeping us entertained. I’d also like to thank our guests for their continuous commitment to supporting Jewish Care in Redbridge.”
Committee Member, Darren Burney, welcomed the guest speakers, with John Barnes and Matt Lorenzo’s conversation roaming from stories of sporting icons, including playing against Diego Maradona, time at Liverpool and Watford, views on the modern game including the introduction of women’s football, as well as growing up living among the Jewish community.
Speaking after the event Ellisa Estrin, Director of Fundraising & Marketing at Jewish Care, said: “Thanks to the fantastic support of our guest speakers, the amazing generosity of our guests and the dedication of the Redbridge Sports Committee, we are delighted to have raised over £83,000.”
affiliated with a synagogue or communal organisation.
COSJCS frequently becomes their first point of contact with the organised community, either directly or via family and friends, helping to rebuild connections that may have lapsed over time. The breakdown of applicants shows Charedim 25%, Progressive (SDRS) 11%, Orthodox (SWHC) 23%, and non-affiliated 41%.
Economic pressures are real, and genuine hardship exists in the Southend Jewish community. The unpredictability of applications – both in volume and type – reflects the fragile circumstances many families face.
Supporters can see exactly how emergency funds are used. Since 2023, grants have helped with food (34 applications), accommodation (4), children’s welfare (2), specific equipment (2), utilities (7), and miscellaneous needs (7), while 5 applications were declined.
Emergency grants are just one part of the picture. COSJCS works closely with partners including Jewish Care, JAMI, Citizens Advice, Southendon-Sea City Council, StepChange, Work Avenue, and other specialist charities. This ensures short-term crises are stabilised while long-term challenges—like debt, employment, mental health, or housing— are addressed by experts.
A large part of COSJCS’s work is signposting: introducing applicants to
services that provide lasting, specialist support. In some cases, grants are conditional on engaging with these services, ensuring underlying problems aren’t left unresolved.
COSJCS has quietly become a vital pillar of support for the Southend Jewish community. Compassionate, practical, and discreet, it meets immediate needs while helping people reconnect with the wider communal framework.
Following a year of rising costs and mounting pressures on households, COSJCS’s message for 2026 is clear: no one in our community should struggle alone. Applications are accepted from anyone living within a 15-mile radius of Southend City Centre. Support and donations can be made via www.cosjcs.org.uk.
John Barnes and Matt Lorenzo with Jewish Care’s Redbridge Sports Committee
Celebrating a runaway success in Loughton
By PAT LIDIKER
POSITIVE memories of the Covid years may be elusive, but the growth of Loughton Synagogue’s Made with Love Chicken Soup Run proves a happy exception.
The initiative has its roots in the first weeks of lockdown when the pain of isolation started to bite, especially among older people. Then friends Yochy Davis and Lesley Adams came along to help cheer up their lonely Friday nights.
They cooked batches of haimishe soup in the shul kitchen to deliver to 20 appreciative older members, who of course told all their friends!
When Yochy was unable to continue, Lesley took over the reins on her own as she felt their growing number of vulnerable recipients desperately needed the service regardless of Covid.
Today, six years on and also now the Chair of Loughton Synagogue, Lesley told me: “So many came forward to help and now 15 drivers distribute up to 200 goody bags a week in and around Essex.”
As well as homemade chicken soup with kneidlach, noodles and vegetables, the bags tempt recipients’ appetites with a savoury dish (pasta, potatoes or rice), sliced challah, cake and fruit salad. Throughout the year they can also find extra yom tov treats like jars of honey at Rosh Hashanah or Hamantaschen for Purim. And all for a heavily subsidised £7 per goody bag.
The yummy cake (a different flavour each week) has always been baked by volunteers from Chigwell & Hainault Synagogue. Now, as demand continues to grow, members work alongside the Loughton team on their production line. They are joined by teams of
volunteers – from across all Essex Jewish communities – who begin work at 9am on a Thursday, putting finishing touches to the bags and their contents. Then, on Friday mornings, the delivery teams arrive.
It is a labour of love for everyone involved and, as they get to know their regulars, if someone isn’t well, they have even been known to call an ambulance and many friendships have been formed over the years.
I was recently invited to meet over 100 members of this tireless team and their partners at Loughton Shul when Lesley invited me as guest speaker at their Annual Friday Night Dinner.
The meal, of course, was delicious, and tables beautifully laid, making me feel immediately at home in the welcoming warmth of this friendly, caring community.
Another speaker was Claire Oldstein, Grants Coordinator for the Made with Love Chicken Soup Run team, who stressed: “We continually need to raise money to keep this going, replace equipment and expand what we can offer. Happily we recently became a good cause for the Epping Forest Community Lottery and receive 50p for every £1 of ticket sales. So if you’d like to win £25,000 in a fun way while supporting a charity then why not pick us as your cause!”
Events such as an annual 10k charity walk also raise considerable essential funds, while this year’s Friday Night Dinner realised nearly £1,000 just from those present.
Lockdown and the pandemic may be behind us (hopefully!) but not the chicken soup run which goes from strength to
strength.
Lesley concluded: “My aim is to reach the many other deserving recipients
Independence
starts at home
“I’ve
got no sight at all and JBD offers me the safety and security I need.”
Miriam, JBD Tenant
Jewish Blind & Disabled offers housing and support for adults who have physical disabilities or vision impairments.
in the area and to encourage other institutions to emulate our initiative in their own areas all over the country.”
Lesley Adams slaving over a hot stove
Members of the volunteer cooking team
Drivers gather to load up 200 goody bags to deliver to recipients across Essex
RJCC Football Quiz raises thousands
JEWISH Care’s Redbridge Jewish Community Centre (RJCC) Football Quiz brought together supporters for an enjoyable and successful evening of friendly competition and community spirit at Woodford Forest Synagogue. Thanks to the generosity and support
of all those who attended, the event raised more than £3,000 in aid of Jewish Care. These funds will support the charity’s essential services across northeast London and Essex, helping to meet the needs of the community now and in the years ahead.
Ann is Strictly brilliant at fundraising event
By GEOFFREY WRIGHTMAN
FORMER politician and TV personality Ann Widdecombe was the star attraction as the Rotary Club of Roding organised a charity lunch at Chigwell Golf Club attended by 112 guests.
The Strictly Come Dancing star visited every table during lunch and spoke to all the guests. After lunch she gave a fabulous talk, which began with a promise – “I will answer any question honestly” – that she kept throughout.
She also did a book signing for her latest novel An Act of Treachery, while wearing a blue and white Star of David pin badge. When asked why, she explained it was for her Jewish friends who now feel they cannot publicly display symbols of their religion. During her talk, she highlighted how important it was to her to take this public stance.
The beneficiary of the Roding Rotary Club’s efforts was the local charity Chigwell Riding Trust, based at Grange Farm, which provides horse and pony riding for people with special needs, giving them confidence, independence and the joy of being around animals.
How superhero dogs transform lives
ACROSS the UK, many of us have anxiously followed news of attacks on Israel, sending hurried messages to check loved ones are safe. Unless you have run for shelter at the sound of a warning siren, it is hard to grasp the constant strain many Israelis face. For people living with sight loss, that fear and uncertainty are magnified.
In moments when every second matters, expertly trained dogs from the Israel Guide Dog Centre have calmly led their partners to safety, in some cases saving lives. One powerful example is Daniel, who lost his sight at 25, and his guide dog, Max.
Daniel had been paired with Max for only seven months when war forced them to evacuate their home in northern Israel. They were relocated to a large hostel where identical corridors made navigation confusing even in calm conditions. On one of his first nights, a siren shattered the quiet. Disoriented and unsure which direction to take, Daniel froze. Max did not. With steady confidence, he safely guided Daniel through the unfamiliar building to
Teaching primary school children about Judaism
MORE than 2,000 schoolchildren from across Redbridge, Barking and Dagenham visited Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue over the past 18 months, accompanied by teachers and helpers.
The children, from sixteen nonJewish primary schools, are part of the synagogue’s interface with the wider community.
The pupils start their visit in the prayer hall, where Rabbi Jordan Helfman explains the significance of the Ark, the Bimah and the Eternal Light and calls up children in groups to view the Torah scrolls and covers. The guests are encouraged to ask questions and to join Rabbi Jordan in singing along to various traditional songs.
Menorah. They are given paper and pencils to sketch these, and synagogue volunteers are on hand to answer questions about the items and to help hand out challah and juice refreshments.
From the perspective of Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue, the purpose of the school visits is to offer opportunities to learn about Judaism and create a more inclusive and tolerant society, welcoming children at their most impressionable age, along with their support staff, into a synagogue setting.
Most, but not all, of the children who attend have participated in learning about different religious practices and beliefs to better appreciate our multicultural society.
the nearest shelter.
Stories like Daniel and Max’s are not rare. Across Israel, guide dogs help their partners navigate not only physical obstacles but also the unpredictability of daily life during conflict. They provide more than mobility. They offer independence, reassurance and, above all, safety.
The impact extends beyond guide dogs. PTSD service dogs are trained to support individuals living with posttraumatic stress disorder, helping them manage anxiety, flashbacks and overwhelming stress.
Two years ago, Amiyad, a retired IDF Special Forces officer, was partnered with a PTSD service dog named Frank. With Frank by his side, the nightmares and flashbacks that once dominated his life
In the function hall and foyer, the youngsters are shown items of Jewish ritual such as Shabbat candlesticks, Havdalah candles and spice boxes, Chanukiah, yads, Seder plates and a
gradually became manageable. Together they built a fragile but steady sense of calm.
That stability was tested when Palestinian prisoners were released as part of a ceasefire deal. Watching the news, Amiyad saw faces of men he had once captured. As memories flooded back and his breathing quickened, Frank climbed into his lap, pressing close and grounding him in the present. When nightmares come at night, Frank wakes him, nudging gently until the fear subsides. Caring for Frank has helped Amiyad rebuild routine and rediscover purpose.
Emotional support dogs are also
Rabbi Jordan Helfman said: “These visits are an opportunity for children to meet and enter into dialogue with members of the Jewish community, helping to break down fear and prejudice and create a more harmonious world.”
transforming lives, particularly for traumatised children and those with autism, offering calm in a world that can feel overwhelming.
Together, guide dogs, PTSD service dogs and emotional support dogs restore confidence, independence and hope.
But the Israel Guide Dog Centre can only provide these dogs with generosity of dedicated supporters who appreciate the work they do. Breeding, training and caring for each dog requires significant resources, and demand continues to grow. For every Daniel and Max, and every Amiyad and Frank, many more are waiting. These extraordinary dogs are life-saving partners offering courage, stability and unconditional love.
To learn more about the Israel Guide Dog Centre and support its work, visit www.israelguidedog.org.uk.
* Names may have been changed to keep client anonymity.
Words By BRENDA SOSKIN Photo By ROBERT YOUNG
Rabbi Jordan Helfman leading one of the schools sessions at Oaks Lane
One of the Israel Guide Dog Centre’s PTSD service dogs with their partner and his family
The winning team at this year’s RJCC Football Quiz
Ann Widdecombe with audience member Victoria Portnoy
Celebrating Our Centenarians
Pat Lidiker and Simon Rothstein meet three amazing Essex residents
SONIA BURNS
FOR Sonia Burns – a member of Southend & Westcliff Hebrew Congregation who lives at Jewish Care’s Shebson Lodge – reaching 100 is not an age but a number.
She marked her special day by celebrating with family and friends, including a party at Jewish Care’e Southend & Westcliff Jewish Community where guests included Mayor of Southend Cllr Nigel Folkard. Sonia told us: “It’s incredible, but I can’t believe where the years have gone.”
She added: “Most of the friends I had for years are no longer here, but I’ve now made many new ones thanks to Jewish Care and Shebson Lodge. It keeps me active and engaged, and all staff and volunteers are wonderful, helpful, and go above and beyond for us.”
Such is her appreciation that, to mark her 100th birthday, Sonia has now set up an online fundraiser for Jewish Care.
Born in Shoreditch, London, she met her late husband Jack while working in an aircraft factory during World War II, and they married in 1948.
After the war she and Jack owned an off-licence which they later turned into a small family pub. Jack died suddenly in 1992, but today Sonia feels very lucky to have a large, caring family around her.
She told us: “I have three children, six grandchildren and ten greatgrandchildren who are all wonderful to me. Sometimes I think, how did that happen?”
Sonia says the secret to longevity is mostly luck, and she feels fortunate to have her health and still be able to live alone and cook for herself.
When asked about the biggest changes she’s seen in her long life, the latest technology springs to mind: “Everyone has got so clever, but lots of us oldies feel left behind. What worries me is them being on their phones all the time, and I keep saying, leave them outside and come and talk to your mum or grandmother!
“Or get up, go out, or read more – I read a lot and love it, but a book, not on a screen.”
Valerie Anderson used her 100th birthday to raise money for a cause very close to her heart –the Teenage Cancer Trust.
A member of Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community, Valerie has been a keen supporter of the charity since her beloved grandson Paul died of cancer, aged 20.
She said: “Turning 100, everybody knew I didn’t want any flowers. A neighbour asked me if I had a favourite charity, and I told her about Paul and my involvement with the Teenage Cancer Trust. That spread to my other neighbours, friends and community –and altogether we raised £250!”
Valerie lives in her own home in Chelmsford, supported by carers. She enjoys regular visits from her Colchester-based family – son Michael, grandson George, granddaughter Carol and great-grandchildren Amelia and Oliver. She beams with pride when talking about her great-grandkids, telling us that Amelia is a regular performer at Colchester’s Mercury Theatre, and Oliver a future football star in the making. Her sister, five years younger, lives in Dorset.
Valerie didn’t want a large gathering for her birthday, so instead enjoyed a number of smaller events: a meal with her family at The Grange, an outing with her neighbours for high tea at the County Hotel, and an ‘open flat’ for people to pop in. She tells us there was lots of cake eaten and tea drunk. Valerie also enjoyed a video celebration with her stepdaughter and her big family in Australia, who she is very close with.
Valerie grew up in Canterbury, Kent, going to boarding school and then a public school in Ashford, before being evacuated to a suburb of Exeter for the war.
She worked in the Air Ministry during World War II in quality control
SAM GREEN
Sfor aircraft, specialising in optical instruments, before shifting her passion to running canteens at the naval compass headquarters at Ditton Park.
It was meeting husband Vincent – who worked on confidential government radar and aerospace projects with Essex-based contractors Marconi’s and Cossor’s – that led them to this part of the world, setting up home in Ford End in Great Waltham.
After Vincent died, when Valerie was just 52, she discovered Judaism. Not born Jewish, Valerie told us: “When I lost my husband, my thoughts turned to religion. I booked a package holiday to Israel. I don’t go anywhere as a sunsoaking tourist. I go to learn. I studied it all before I went. Our guide was marvellous; in fact, I am still friends with all his family.
“As a result, I came home thinking I want to go into this more and learn about Judaism. I went back again two years later and also started a London University correspondence course in written and spoken Hebrew.”
After not being able to feel a connection on visits to local churches, Valerie discovered the Chelmsford Jewish Community (now merged with Harlow).
With a blossoming love for Israel –which she visited a further seven times – Judaism and the congregation, Valerie chose to convert, becoming an active and key member of the Chelmsford community, although she has had to slow down her participation in recent years.
Her birthday highlights included calls from Tel Aviv, Australia and the offices of the Teenage Cancer Trust –as well as the 51 cards she received, including a very special one from King Charles III and Queen Camilla that she tells us “everyone who visits wants to see!”
AM Green’s 101st birthday celebrations were somewhat lower key than last year’s. Then it was non-stop parties and dining out with family and friends, while showing off his card from the King and Queen.
This year he celebrated with a joyful tea party courtesy of Jewish Care’s Redbridge Jewish Community Centre (RJCC).
A resident of Sherrell House Care Home, Sam puts his great age down to sheer luck, having a sense of humour and a determination to just keep on going.
Even after losing his beloved wife Helen two years ago, after 70 years together, he still maintains a full social life.
Sam is a popular member of two lunch clubs. One is run by the RJCC at Woodford Forest United Synagogue each Tuesday, and the other is the Thursday AJEX JACS at Chigwell and Hainault Synagogue, his own shul.
Sam has always been well known in Redbridge as a skilled stonemason, retiring at the age of 95.
He told us: “I only gave up work after 80 years because of Covid. I was 95 when lockdown started, stopped driving, and sort of retired.”
Should he ever feel desperate to go back to work, there will always be a job going at Gary Green Memorials run by his son Gary, which has a large Jewish clientele in Essex. This time, though, it would be behind the showroom counter rather than as a stonemason.
Sam’s other son, Jeff, runs his own software company and shares his time between homes in Canary Wharf and Manila, where his development company is based.
Jeff visits or speaks to his father every day when in London, and even when in the Philippines, video calls him. This is one 101-year-old who hasn’t let modern technology get the better of him!
As for Sam’s secret to having a long and happy life, he says: “Try not to lose your temper. Stay as cool as you can.”
10 years of Chabad Aid
By SIMON ROTHSTEIN
ADECADE ago, Rebbetzin Devorah Sufrin began leaving a basket of leftover food outside Chabad Gants Hill’s building for anyone going through tough times. A grateful local woman later got in touch asking if a regular bag could be prepared for her… and in that moment Chabad Aid was born.
Now, 10 years on, there are around 50 volunteers – led by Graham Nygate, Russell Green and Stephanie Plawner – with Chabad Aid producing the equivalent of 315,632 meals a year, both for their own clients and by sharing what they collect but cannot use with food banks run by other faith groups.
Here Rebbetzin Devorah Sufrin and Graham Nygate tell the EJN about this special Essex success story.
EJN: Firstly, thank you for everything you do. Can you tell us a bit about your process?
DS: There are four different branches.
The first is the collection – facilitating, organising, picking up and bringing the food in here, which Graham arranges. Then we have a group of volunteers who come in to sort it all out and pack the bags, headed up by Stephanie. Another group of volunteer drivers then take the packages to people’s homes each Thursday. Sometimes they are the only visitor that week, so they will chat and spend time with people. The fourth strand is the cooking. This began when we started using leftover root vegetables to make hot soup, that my husband (Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin) and I gave out to homeless people sheltering in the underground station. We now like to add a Shabbat
meal for people, so every client who wants it will get chicken soup, chicken, kugel, vegetables and a little challah.
GN: We work with around 20 local supermarkets, cash-and-carries and retail warehouses. It’s not just food, a lot of times we get flowers – which always go down so well – and sometimes clothes too.
EJN: Do you only serve the Jewish community?
DS: Our main focus is and always has to be the Jewish community, but we will help anybody who needs us. Our first client wasn’t Jewish, she was just someone local who needed help. And she is still a recipient of ours today.
GN: Our policy is that we never say no if someone needs our support. We are currently delivering to around 50 individuals and families, both Jewish and non-Jewish.
EJN: What do you do with food you can’t distribute, for example items that aren’t certified as kosher?
GN: We don’t waste anything. We’ve built up a network, working with four different Muslim food banks and four different Christian food banks. We all share items and we give them anything we can’t use. It also works the other way. There is a Muslim man who runs a food bank and he came to my door with a couple of crates of Kellogg’s breakfast cereals as he knew they were kosher and our clients would really benefit from them.
EJN: Has that helped with local interfaith relationships?
GN: Definitely. After the terrorist attacks of 7 October 2023, I had phone calls
from all of our Muslim and Christian partners expressing their support for our community.
DS: Graham was in hospital around a year ago and he had people saying prayers for him not only in synagogues, but in churches and mosques as well. That is something special.
EJN: What else do you feel makes Chabad Aid different?
GN: Everybody else is a food bank, whether Jewish or non-Jewish, where people visit to get the food. We are the only ones that deliver. This is so important to us because a lot of the people we help simply can’t come and pick up.
DS: I trained as a therapist and one of the reasons I did this was because a lot of times people we help wanted to confide, and I didn’t know how to help them. Now I can. Two of my clients at the moment are people, supported by Chabad Aid, who are in such dire circumstances that they can’t afford to pay for counselling. So, I see them. That’s another form of the way that we help.
EJN: Does it cost a lot to run Chabad Aid and how do you fund it?
DS: There are a lot of costs people don’t realise, such as packaging, building costs and DBS checks for volunteers. Some weeks we won’t get given certain staple items people need, so Russell will go out and buy those. And the one thing we never get donated is kosher meat, which is a heavy monthly bill. Russell is spearheading our fundraising, with things like a sponsored spinathon and setting up the £20 A Month Club, so we can try and create a stable source of income to cover these costs.
EJN: Finally, what are your hopes for the next 10 years?
GN: In theory, we should be out of work. That’s our greatest hope.
Members of The Chabad Aid volunteer packing team hard at work
Lord Sugar visits Jewish Care’s Sugar & Ronson Campus
LORD Alan Sugar has visited the new Redbridge care and community campus that will bear his name when it opens this summer.
The Apprentice host spent time at Jewish Care’s Sugar & Ronson Campus to see the huge progress that has been made.
The Sugar family have been longstanding supporters of the charity, showing unwavering commitment over many decades by generously supporting its services in Essex and East London, in addition to their ongoing support for the wider organisation.
Jewish Care CEO Daniel Carmel-Brown said: “We were delighted that Lord Sugar visited the Sugar & Ronson Campus to see how rapidly the project is progressing.
“This project would not be possible without the extraordinary support of
our cornerstone donors, the Sugar family and, the Ronson family through The Gerald and Gail Ronson Family Foundation.”
At the heart of the new first-class campus, The Sugar Family Care Home will provide nursing, residential, dementia and end-of-life care with options for respite and short-term stays – offering a home-from-home experience where the comfort, accessibility and wellbeing of the residents come first.
Residents at Jewish Care’s Vi & John Rubens House care home will be the first to benefit from this wonderful resource.
One, 85-year-old Pauline, said: “I’ve lived here for around three years and I’m very happy here. It was the best move for me and I’m looking forward to the new Campus.”
Israel’s border communities are fighting for survival
As Iran launches missile barrages at Israeli cities and Hezbollah reopens the northern front, JNF UK is calling on UK supporters to help rebuild the communities that have always stood at the sharp end of Israel’s security.
On 28 February 2026, Israel and the United States launched a military campaign against Iran, triggering one of the most intense missile barrages the Jewish state has ever faced. Iranian ballistic missiles struck residential areas across the country, killing civilians and wounding scores more.
Simultaneously, Hezbollah resumed rocket attacks on northern Israel for the first time since the November 2024 ceasefire, targeting Galilee communities that had only recently begun to recover. Israel is now fighting on multiple fronts: Gaza, Lebanon, Iran and Yemen.
This is the backdrop against which JNF UK launched its Green Sunday Appeal for 2026.
But for Israel’s border communities, the crisis did not begin in February. Following the Hamas massacre of 7 October 2023, hundreds of thousands of Israelis were evacuated from their homes along the Gaza and Lebanon borders. By 2025, the return had begun; but only 75% of displaced families came back, the rest stayed away, deterred by trauma, damaged infrastructure and the rational fear that the worst was not over. They were right.
After Operation Protective Edge in 2014, a missile strike on Kibbutz Nahal Oz killed five-year-old Daniel Tragerman and seventeen young families left. It took years of deliberate intervention, including a JNF UK gap-year programme bringing young Jewish adults to live and volunteer on the kibbutz, to reverse the decline. The
question of whether families choose to stay in border communities is not merely a personal one. In 2026, it is a wider question of community survival.
JNF UK funds practical projects to support the people and communities who choose to live across all four of Israel’s border regions. In the south, the Nahal Oz gap-year programme is once again bringing young people to a community that badly needs them.
“When you have young adults, you have life,” says Eli, a resident and former head of security there. In the north, JNF UK has refurbished the Dishon community centre, a vital hub for families returning after months of evacuation.
“The community centre is the heart of our village,’ says Meital, Head of the Dishon Community, ‘where young and old reconnect, heal and rebuild.”
Along the Jordan and Egypt borders, investment in education, youth facilities and leadership programmes is helping attract young families to remote but strategically vital regions.
“These initiatives are about far more than bricks and mortar,” says Elan Gorji, CEO of JNF UK. “They are about people – restoring connection, purpose and leadership where daily life was shattered.”
With the conflict showing no signs of resolution, the need is urgent. A border without people is just a line on a map. In 2026, helping people on those lines thrive has never been more important or more difficult.
• JNF UK is Britain’s oldest Israel charity, supporting the development of the Jewish homeland for over 120 years.
To donate and learn more about the Green Sunday Appeal 2026, visit www.jnf.co.uk/gs2026.
Israel Guide Dog Centre UK launches walking challenge
The Israel Guide Dog Centre UK has launched a walking challenge for British supporters to raise sponsorship for the charity’s life-changing work in Israel.
The Centre not only provides guide dogs for the blind and visually impaired, but also PTSD service dogs and emotional support dogs for people overcoming trauma – the need for which has become greater than ever since the terrorist attacks of 7 October 2023 and resulting wars.
The challenge celebrates Israel turning 78 by asking people to walk 78km in 30
days – with or without a dog by their side. People can take part individually, or as a couple, family, school or community group. It starts on Yom Haatzmaut – Wednesday 22 April.
The Israel Guide Dog Centre UK’s Executive Director, Karen Brosh, has urged Essex Jewish News readers to take part, saying: “Every kilometre you walk helps provide expertly trained dogs for Israelis living with sight loss, PTSD and children overcoming trauma.”
Sign up at www.fundnation.org/ israelguidedog.
Lord Sugar visits Jewish Care’s Sugar & Ronson Campus
An Israel Dog Guide Centre client walks with the dog who helped change their life
The young people of Ruach Arava
Southend remembers at Holocaust commemoration
By GEOFFREY PEPPER
IN a well-organised and well-planned programme, 400 people packed into the Civic Centre for Southend Borough Council’s annual Holocaust Memorial Day, marking the 81st anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau on 27th January 1945, with the annual lighting of the commemoration candle by the leader of the Council, Daniel Cowan.
Marta Josephs was the guest speaker, sharing the story of her father, Andrew Frankel, a Hungarian Jew who survived two concentration camps during World War II. She has been sharing his experiences to educate future generations
about the Holocaust and its impact. He left Hungary with his family for England in 1956 during the Hungarian uprising.
Local schools provided the music and singing, all with a Holocaust theme.
Concluding remarks were given by the Mayor of Southend, Councillor Nigel Folkard. Emotionally thanking everyone, he said: “As a society we must not tolerate people being persecuted on the grounds of race, religion or for other reasons. We’re grateful to Marta for sharing the painful story of her father and her family’s courage with us.”
Children’s Mental Health Week at Clore Tikva
CLORE Tikva Primary School ran a series of Children’s Mental Health Week sessions, allowing for meaningful conversations, thoughtful activities and heartfelt reflections.
This year’s theme of ‘This Is My Place’ focused on belonging, helping every child understand that they matter and are valued.
Throughout the week, pupils explored a range of important topics around mental
health: recognising emotions, building resilience, celebrating differences, showing kindness and understanding how to support one another.
The school’s Head of Jewish Studies Samantha Bendon said: “Mental Health Week reminded us that belonging isn’t just about where we are, it’s about how we feel. When children feel safe, heard and valued, they thrive.”
Teacher swap at WIJPS for World Book Day
WOHL Ilford Jewish Primary School enjoyed a special World Book Day where, in true reading-for-pleasure style, teachers swapped classrooms to share a favourite story with a different class,
Services and commemorations took place all over our region on HMD, including Barbara Jaffe and Susan Ellis laying the wreath at the Romford Holocaust Stone
Rebbetzen Chaya Brocha Goodwin led Chigwell and Hainault Synagogue ladies’ trip to Milan, Italy, which included sightseeing, shopping and a visit to the city’s Sinagoga Centrale.
More than a Seder: Parenting through Passover
HOW do we bring Pesach to life for the next generation?
PJ Library distributes Jewish books to thousands of children in the UK for free. Their Passover book selection reminds us that Jewish parenting doesn’t start at the seder table – it begins in the small, everyday moments that shape how our children experience Judaism.
Babies are enjoying My Passover Seder by Claire A. B. Freeland and Aviel Basil. This story is a gentle introduction to the seder rituals for babies, with bright illustrations to convey sights and sounds.
spreading book recommendations far and wide.
The school’s Jewish Studies Lead Deborah Harris said: “We had a brilliant day filled with stories, smiles and a shared love of reading!”
Toddlers are receiving a copy of Matzah Day by Charlotte Offsay, a story that captures a child’s excitement about Passover. The underlying message is that tradition doesn’t have to be formal to be meaningful. Plus, the back is filled with child-friendly matzah recipes for families to enjoy making together.
Then there is The Passover Lamb by Linda Elovitz Marshall, being sent out to older children, exploring preparation,
responsibility and reflection through a child’s perspective.
Sara Kibel, Deputy Director of PJ Library in the UK, said: “As parents, we often worry about how to pass down Jewish traditions in ways that feel meaningful rather than obligatory. Passover, with its powerful themes of freedom, curiosity and belonging, offers a unique opportunity to address this.”
Find out more at www.pjlibrary.org.uk.
Thoughts from our communal leaders
BY CHIEF RABBI SIR EPHRAIM MIRVIS KBE CHIEF RABBI OF THE UNITED HEBREW CONGREGATIONS OF THE COMMONWEALTH
“AKIPPAH and a Kiddush cup.” This was Keith Siegel’s request when he emerged from 484 days of unimaginable torture at the hands of Hamas in Gaza.
His daughter, Shir, had gently asked him what he would like for his first Friday night at home. Despite not having a religious background, his instinct was to make Kiddush. He chose to celebrate his freedom with a timeless expression of his Jewish identity.
His request carries a remarkable echo of our exodus from Egypt.
As the Israelites miraculously crossed the Red Sea, they burst into song: “Zeh Keili v’anveihu – This is my God and I will glorify Him.”
The Talmud teaches that we glorify Hashem by beautifying our mitzvot – by wearing tefillin with pride, lighting Shabbat candles with care or by embracing our Jewish practice as a privilege to be cherished and enjoyed.
Other commentators including Onkelos, Rashi, Ibn Ezra and Ramban note that the word ‘V’anveihu’ comes from the root ‘naveh’ which means a home. Therefore, v’anveihu means: “I will build Him a home.” From the very birth of our nation, we have built places where the Divine presence could dwell – the Sanctuary, the Temple and now our Shuls.
Rabbi Shimshon Raphael Hirsch takes it one step further with the literal translation: “I will become a home for Hashem.” It’s not only buildings, but people. Not only institutions, but identities. Our very lives are to be living testimonies to Hashem’s presence.
That was Keith Siegel’s instinct. When liberated, he chose to become a home for Hashem. His quiet request contains a powerful message for us all.
Recent years have tested us profoundly. We have faced hatred on our streets, fear in our communities and deep concern for the future of Israel. And yet, alongside the pain, we have witnessed extraordinary moments of salvation and resilience. Against all odds, every single hostage has returned home. Israel has not only endured, but in many ways has grown stronger. Despite unspeakable targeted acts of terror and the continued scourge of anti-Jewish hatred, Jewish life in the Diaspora continues to flourish. These are astonishing modern-day miracles.
So how should we respond to them?
Let us not be tempted by anger
nor retreat into fear. Both responses are understandable, but corrosive. If we allow hatred to shape us, then our enemies still control us. If we define ourselves only through suffering, we surrender the joy and purpose at the heart of Judaism.
The Torah’s answer is: Don’t curse your enemies, nor hide who you are. The most powerful and effective answer to those who seek to intimidate and attack us is to wear our identity with yet greater pride. To walk taller and sing louder. To strengthen Jewish homes, Shuls and schools. To enhance our commitment to Jewish life. That was the quiet heroism of Keith Siegel. And that must be our heroism too.
Valerie and I wish you all a chag kasher v’sameach.
BY RABBI JORDAN HELFMAN VICE-CHAIR OF THE ASSEMBLY OF REFORM RABBIS AND CANTORS (PROGRESSIVE JUDAISM)
AS we each prepare for our seder, there is one thing they will likely all have in common – bowls smeared yellow with the discarded egg-yolks that the children refuse to even try.
I am honoured each year to attend a seder at our local Jewish community school, Clore Tikva Primary School, where the pupils are always quizzed about the meaning of this soon-to-be bifurcated egg.
They answer with certainty that the egg symbolises the rebirth of spring. They are right, but –typically Jewish – there are many other answers, too.
Curiosity is at the heart of Judaism, even to the degree that the rabbis of the Talmud would do silly things until they could awaken the questioning in their children and organically draw out the classic: “Why is this night different from all other nights?”
Whilst the egg almost certainly refers to the festival sacrifices at the ancient Temple in Jerusalem, the Chatam Sofer is sometimes quoted as saying that the more the Jewish people are boiled, the harder we become.
This is a tempting explanation to adopt today, when we feel pressures from the outside and sometimes think the only answer is to develop a thick shell and a hard inner resolve. There are many who react to hardship by closing down and toughening up.
More and more, those who claim a ‘true Judaism’ are acting defensively and trying to solidify the legitimacy of one type of Jewish practice. They forget the value of intermingling with neighbours and invest only in high
walls and gates.
The Iftars (post-Ramadan meals) at Progressive synagogues across the UK – including London, Hertfordshire, Birmingham and Newcastle – are helping bonds of friendship of the strength which only exists when we invite others into our homes and our synagogues.
Judaism has never been a religion of hardened hearts – that description applies only to Pharaohs.
Indeed, according to the modern Jewish novelist, Dara Horn, “the opposite of hatred isn’t love or empathy. It’s curiosity.”
Judaism, under immense pressure, has never set. This is the secret to our survival.
As we gather around our seder plates – whether with family, friends or our communities – without a doubt, there will be at least three opinions as to the best way of serving the eggs (salted or not, in warm water, or just by themselves).
I’m sure there will be a similar number of disagreements around whether the current governments here and abroad are “good for the Jews” and our country.
Fixed opinions are the yellow yolk we should be leaving at the side of the bowl. After all, we are the ever-questioning people, as four questions double (increase?) exponentially and the conversations spark to life in our synagogue halls and homes.
So, this year, as we gather for Pesach, I hope that we are able to find friends who will join us in the questioning of how things are and how they got here.
I pray that the age-old mantra of “They tried to kill us. We survived. Let’s eat.” is translated into the present tense: “We survive. Let’s talk about it. And, of course, let’s eat.”
BY RABBI ARYEH SUFRIN MBE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CHABAD LUBAVITCH NORTH EAST LONDON & ESSEX
IN the coming days, Jewish communities around the world will prepare for Passover, the festival that commemorates the biblical Exodus from Egypt.
This year, the festival begins on the evening of 1 April and continues for eight days. During this time, Jewish families remove all foods containing leaven –anything made with dough that rises – from their homes. Instead, they eat matzah, a flat, unleavened bread that has become the central symbol of the festival.
The traditional explanation is well known: when the Israelites were freed from slavery in Egypt, they left in such haste that their bread did not have time to rise. As a result, they baked simple, flat loaves… the matzah eaten during Passover today.
However, this raises an interesting question. After the
ten biblical plagues struck Egypt, the Pharaoh and his people were desperate for the Israelites to leave. If the Egyptians wanted them gone, why the rush? Would a few extra minutes to let the bread rise really have mattered?
Beyond the historical narrative, the story carries a deeper lesson that speaks to people of all backgrounds.
The Israelites had lived in slavery for generations. Two centuries of hardship affected not only their physical freedom but also their mind-set. Over time, the experience of oppression eroded their confidence and identity. The longer they remained in that environment, the harder it would be to rediscover who they truly were.
In this sense, their hurried departure was not simply about escaping the Egyptians. It was also about escaping the psychological grip of slavery.
Anyone who has faced a destructive habit can recognise a similar struggle. Whether it is addiction, a toxic relationship or a damaging pattern of behaviour, there often comes a moment of clarity – a realisation that change is needed. However, that moment can pass quickly if action is delayed. Doubt and self-justification can easily creep back in.
That is why decisive action can be so important. Sometimes the first step toward recovery or personal growth requires a clean break from what is holding us back.
The symbolism of matzah reflects this idea. Unlike bread that rises slowly, matzah is made quickly and simply. It represents humility, urgency and the courage to begin again.
Passover therefore speaks not only about an ancient journey from slavery to freedom, but also about personal transformation. The festival invites people to reflect on the constraints in their own lives – habits, attitudes or influences that may limit their potential.
In that light, the humble matzah cracker carries a powerful message: freedom often begins with a decisive step. Sometimes the most important change starts when we act without delay and move forward toward the person we are capable of becoming.
My wife Devorah joins me in wishing you and yours a happy, kosher and meaningful Pesach experience.
BY RONI TABICK NEW STOKE NEWINGTON SHUL (MASORTI JUDAISM)
WHY is this night different from all other nights?
The children ask the four questions every year, the same questions all the time. Two
of them go back, word for word, to the time of the Mishnah, nearly 2,000 years ago - why do we eat only matzah? Why do we eat bitter herbs?
The other two questions changed over the centuries. The third question, about dipping, originally asked, “Why do we dip twice when usually we dip once?” At the time, it was normal for one of the courses of a fancy meal to be vegetables with dips. The unusual thing of the seder wasn’t dipping per se, but that we dip twice instead of just a single time.
The final question was originally totally different - “On all other nights we may eat our food boiled or roasted, tonight we only eat it roasted.” At the time when the Temple still stood in Jerusalem and our ancestors were eating the Pesach lamb at the seder, this was an important difference. But after the Temple was destroyed and we stopped eating the Pesach lamb, the question was no longer relevant. Instead, the focus switched to leaning at the meal, a common feature of important meals in Roman times. Over the centuries it became more and more anachronistic and needed a question of its own.
It’s striking to me not only that we always ask the same questions, year on year, but also that we never really answer half of them. Sure, the matzah and the maror get their time in the Haggadah’s spotlight, but the ritual of the seder never stops to explain why we dip twice, nor why we lean.
I think the rabbis are trying to tell us that the right questions are often more important than answers. The right questions need to be returned to, year on year, explored anew in each generation. What makes something a powerful question can be context dependent, but asking questions is incredibly important.
“Why are we here?” “What should I do with my life?” “What does God want from me?”
These sorts of questions are the kind that can always drive us, that demand engaging with over and over again. In a way, the answers aren’t really the point.
It is perhaps a shame that it is traditionally the children who ask the questions at the seder, as if the adults have all the answers and the children are the ones who need to know. The truth, I think, is that we should never stop questioning, never rest easy on our laurels that we have found all the answers and truly know what it’s all about. Instead we should be searching for the driving questions that will keep us moving forward and perhaps bring us closer to God.
Synagogue 12. Harlow and Chelmsford
Rabbi Dr Tali Artman-Partock and all of our members wish you a happy Pesach.
If you would like more information about the synagogue please contact us on Tel: 020 8530 3345
Rabbi & Rebbetzen Singer, The Honorary Officers, Board of Management and our Community send greetings to all EJN readers for a Healthy and Peaceful Pesach
Rabbi & Rebbetzen Wollenberg, cers wish all readers a Happy Pesach
20 Churchfields, London E18 2QZ Telephone 020 8504 1990 www.wfus.org.uk
MODERN TRADITIONAL JUDAISM nemasorti@hotmail.com nemsynagogue.co.uk
Greetings from ROMFORD & DISTRICT (AFFILIATED) SYNAGOGUE
The Honorary Officers and Congregation wish everyone a Healthy Kosher Pesach
Southend and District Reform Synagogue 851 London Road Westcliff-on-Sea Essex SS0 9SZ Telephone 01702 711663 www.southendreform.org.uk
The Executive and Council of Southend and District Reform Synagogue, together with Rabbi Warren Elf MBE, warmly wish the community and all readers a happy and healthy Pesach
Erev Shabbat services always held weekly led by Rabbi Warren. Shabbat morning services held weekly in SDRS and by zoom. Please contact Shul for times and details.
Headteacher: Mrs Margot Buller Chairman of Governors: Mrs Louise Dorling
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Wishes all of its readers, advertisers and supporters a very happy Pesach
Wishing everyone a very happy and kosher Pesach
Rabbi Goodwin and Chaya, Rabbi Rosen and Olivia, the honorary officers and synagogue council wish all readers of the Essex Jewish News a very happy Pesach.
THERE is good news ahead as Jewish culture in the UK will be celebrated in an inaugural monthlong event aimed at people of all faiths and backgrounds.
The Board of Deputies of British Jews has announced more than 100 events will take place as part of Jewish Culture Month.
Running from Saturday 16 May to Tuesday 16 June inclusive, it will focus on a range of themes including British Jewish contributions to music, literature, food, history, fashion, architecture and comedy.
In an exclusive interview, Liat Rosenthal – Board of Deputies Director of Culture, Education and Communities – answered our questions about this exciting new venture: Has there ever been a Jewish Culture Month before?
No, this will be the first ever Jewish Culture Month! Although there has been
a Jewish Heritage Month in America, we believe that this is the first such celebration of Jewish culture anywhere in the world.
How did the initiative come about?
It comes at a time when the UK Jewish community has been suffering antisemitic attacks amid the conflict in the Middle East. Until now, the only national event involving the Jewish community has been Holocaust Memorial Day.
The programme will showcase the richness and diversity of Jewish culture in all its forms. We want both Jewish people and our friends and neighbours of different faiths and beliefs to experience all the light, creativity and laughter of Jewish life in Britain.
After a difficult few years for the Jewish community, we believe that Jewish Culture Month will be an unmissable opportunity for less oy and more joy. Is the Board of Deputies the main organiser?
The Board of Deputies is the sole organiser of Jewish Culture Month and will bring together events and activities from communities up and down the country as well as national cultural organisations who will be staging events.
Can you name some of the prolific cultural organisations taking part?
Among the cultural institutions participating are: Tate, Victoria & Albert Museum, The British Museum, National Portrait Gallery, Museum of the Home, Manchester Museum, The British Library, Freud Museum London, HOME Manchester, The London Archives, The Little Theatre Cinema, Chichester Cinema, Bodleian Libraries,
The Story Museum, Science Museum, National Museums Liverpool, The Met, Ark Cliftonville Cultural Space, Phoenix Picturehouse Oxford, Cinema City Norwich, Brighton & Hove Jewish Community, Manchester Gallery, JW3, National Holocaust Museum, The Whitworth, Discovery Museum, Southbank Centre and UK Jewish Film.
Is Jewish Culture Month set to be a regular happening?
Yes, it is.
Please can you give us a taste of the type of events – big and small – that will take place nationally and locally.
The month will include a host of talks, tours, live events, screenings and workshops, taking place in venues ranging from theatres and galleries to restaurants, public spaces, Friday night home suppers and community hubs.
Just to give a few highlights…
There will be curator-led tours on various parts of the V&A Collections and
Visitors can step into the world of a Jewish family making their home in London’s East End at the turn of the 20th century at the Museum of the Home, London.
Shabbat with Shedletsky’s and Friends will be a pop-up supper club with East London’s favourite pickle makers. Joyfully Jewish: Getting On (see article below) will be a night of new Jewish writing about being older, growing wiser and refusing to age gracefully.
To book visit: https:// jewishculturemonth.org.uk/events/ joyfully-jewish-getting-on.
It sounds great. How can our readers find out more about local and other events?
For full details of the entire programme, go to www. jewishculturemonth.org.uk
Bringing Jewish joy to the national stage
By
ACTRESS Rachel Gaffin came up with the idea for Joyfully Jewish while travelling on a train from Edinburgh to Inverness in the summer of 2024.
Concerned by the rise in antisemitism many Jewish creatives felt had plagued the arts since the 7 October terrorist attacks, she wanted to create a project to celebrate Jewish culture and community. Her solution was a new theatre initiative to bring Jewish joy to a wider audience.
Speaking to the Essex Jewish News, Rachel said: “I knew I wanted Joyfully Jewish to include a selection of new comedic short plays written by Jewish playwrights, directed by Jewish directors, and performed by Jewish actors. The remit for the writers was no politics, no war, no trauma, no antisemitism – just the joys of being Jewish.
“The plays would act as a reminder to Jewish audiences of what they love about being Jewish, share those joys with nonJewish audiences, and create a safe space for Jewish creatives. In the current climate, it can sometimes be difficult to keep positive.”
The first Joyfully Jewish production was
a run of four sold-out nights of new Jewish writing at the Tsitsit Jewish Fringe Festival 2024 and was well received.
Later this year, Rachel’s theatre company, Echoes Theatre Company, in collaboration with The JEWish Cabaret, will bring a number of new productions to various venues across the UK.
Each production features new comedic Jewish short plays alongside original musical theatre songs.
Two of these will be coming to the Redbridge Drama Centre in South Woodford. On June 14th, Joyfully Jewish: Getting On will explore the themes of getting older, growing wiser, and refusing to age gracefully. Later in the year, November’s production, Joyfully Jewish: Strangers in a Strange Land will tackle the ideas of belonging, identity, and finding the perfect beigel wherever you are.
Rachel, as artistic director of Echoes Theatre Company, has been responsible for fundraising, venue liaison, script selection, recruiting directors, and overseeing every aspect of the production process.
“At a time when Jewish stories can feel overshadowed by politics, bringing Joyfully
Jewish to Essex feels especially important,” she said.
“There is a vibrant Jewish community here, and we want to create something that celebrates culture and creativity locally, while welcoming people from all backgrounds to share in that joy.”
• For more information or to book tickets, please visit www.joyfullyjewish. co.uk
MICAELA BLITZ Pictures by GARY MANHINE
Liat Rosenthal
Making a literary dream come true
By LINDA NEWMAN
IHAVE been writing short stories since I was 10 years old and I always promised myself I would publish a novel one day,” says Sharon Belnikoff.
Now more than 50 years later, that long-held dream has come true as Sharon’s book The Café on the Corner –described on the cover as, “a touching story that explores love, resilience and the complicated nature of relationships” – has been published.
Sharon writes under the pen name Rose Lainie; explaining the source she says: “There is a rose called the Sharon Rose in Israel and Lainie comes from tinkering a bit with my middle name Elaine.”
Sharon has an engaging writing style. Her novel, set in the fictional “quaint” town of Bracken, kicks off with a chance meeting between a young musician
Becoming a triple marathon man
By SIMON ROTHSTEIN
CHIGWELL and Hainault Synagogue member David Blitz is running three marathons as part of his company’s aim to raise to raise £10,000 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA).
Staff from brick supplier ET Clay’s Essex, Birmingham and Manchester branches will take part in a variety of sponsored activities throughout the year to support a cause close to their hearts.
The campaign honours the memory of Steve Sampson, a respected industry colleague who was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in 2024 and sadly passed away in December 2025.
David (pictured) will take on the Brighton, Manchester and London Marathons this April – three major races in just three weeks – to spearhead the fundraising effort. He has previously completed marathons raising money for Cancer Research and Macmillan Cancer Support, but admits that running three back-to-back races will be one of his toughest challenges yet.
David, who is Managing Director of ET Clay, said: “I’m doing a lot of training to make sure I’m ready for the big days.
called Johan and an older woman, Janie, three decades older than Johan, to be precise.
Their meeting leads to romance, but all is not smooth and a series of unexpected events, coupled with Johan’s mysterious past, leave readers wondering: will love win, or will fate take them in separate directions…? (No spoilers here, folks, sorry!)
Speaking about where inspiration comes from, Sharon explains: “When my husband Ian and I go on holiday, we go on cruises in Europe, and when I sit and have coffee, I people-watch. You can be who you want to be on a cruise and it’s fascinating to watch different types of people and how they meet one another. Usually, I get an idea and then my imagination takes over.”
As it did on a cruise around the British Isles over a year ago, the end result was a 155-page novel, which Sharon took to UK Publishing House, a company that helps authors selfpublish their books: “They came back saying my story had potential and I was very excited about getting it done. The publisher helped with the editing process, put my book on Amazon as well as other platforms, and created a website.”
As for the charming cover, Sharon designed it herself using Microsoft Copilot.
Sharon’s love of writing stories started as a child and carried on until she got married. She says: “After that, I concentrated on the family” – the couple have two daughters, Amanda and Debra, and two grandchildren, Alfie, 7,
It will definitely be a challenge, but I’m ready to take it on to raise money for such a worthwhile cause.”
Colleagues across the company are further supporting the campaign by organising mud runs, sponsored walks and cake bakes to help reach the £10,000 target.
Anyone wishing to donate can do so by searching for ‘ET Clay’ on the JustGiving website.
took up her storytelling again in the 1990s and wrote her first novel; however, that sits in an envelope at home. She reflects: “In those days there wasn’t the internet and I sent off floppy disks and paper copies to quite a few publishers – unfortunately, some didn’t reply and the whole process of getting a book published was more complicated than it is today.”
Sharon and Ian live in Chelmsford, moving there from Ilford 20 years ago.
Amongst various activities –including Sharon being a busy writer
– the couple have been long-serving members on the council of Chelmsford Jewish Community, including steering through its recent merger with Harlow Jewish Community.
Sharon says: “There is a lovely Jewish community here. Until the merger, we didn’t have a shul so had services in different places, including in an upstairs room in a church.
“However, now as part of Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community we have a building to go to for services and are affiliated to The Movement for Progressive Judaism.”
Sharon retired six years ago; her last job was working in retail at Primark. She explains: “I’ve had many different jobs in my time – office work, market research, manager of the ‘All Aboard’ charity shop in Ilford, childminding – and that’s just some of them!”
These days, with a busy writing schedule of three hours per day when in the throes of a novel, she is now planning the sequel to The Café on the Corner, to be titled The Demon Within Me. Clearly the writing bug is alive, well and thriving in Sharon. Does she have any advice to give to other would-be authors?
She concludes: “I would say don’t give up, keep writing, keep trying and you’ll get there in the end. My book is going to be available to buy globally soon and once again I am filled with excitement and look forward to making my novel a bestseller!”
• The Café on the Corner by Rose Lainie is available from Amazon.
Sharon Belnikoff
and Lucie, 4. Sharon
Travel
Travel
By SIMON ROTHSTEIN
Discovering the beauty of Eilat
Sunshine, shopping and incredible activities for all the family… everything you need to know about one of Israel’s gems
“Eilat is an amazing city,” Mayor Eli Lankri tells me. “It is beautiful, innovative and constantly evolving.”
That the Mayor spent part of an evening with me and three other journalists from Jewish papers in the UK (visiting before the current war with Iran), waxing lyrical about Eilat and taking us around Terminal Park, highlights just how seriously the city takes diaspora tourism.
Once an annual destination for many families in the UK, visitor numbers from these shores have dropped in recent years for three key reasons – Covid, war, and a lack of flights.
El Al solved the latter by resuming direct winter flights to the city from Israel’s main international airport, Ben Gurion in Tel Aviv. Wizz Air have now also announced plans to open a mini-base at Eilat’s Ramon Airport.
The result is that this incredible city, with so much to offer, is easily accessible –once the current conflict with Iran is over.
If you want to be at one with nature, go to Eilat. If you want to ride camels in the desert or snorkel around Moses Rock, go to Eilat. If you want to lie in the sun any month of the year, go to Eilat. If you want to take the kids go-karting, climbing or to see dolphins, go to Eilat. If you want taxfree shopping, go to Eilat. You get the idea!
Four days in the city told me that the Mayor’s words weren’t a sales pitch or hyperbole, but a genuine description of one of Israel’s gems.
At the time of this newspaper going to print, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is advising against travel to the Middle East.
However once we can return to return to Israel, I would strongly recommend putting Eilat on your agenda. And if you do, here is my guide to the best things to see, do and eat.
WHAT TO DO:
The Eilat Bird Sanctuary eilatbirds.com/en/
As the only land bridge connecting Europe, Asia and Africa, Eilat is one of the most important places in the world for migratory birds and this centre is where they are supported and protected on route. Entry is free and the aim is simple: changing hearts about conservation by letting you get close enough to see these wonderful creatures on their epic trek. I loved every second I spent here – as do the 150,000 visitors and millions of birds that come through each year!
Underwater Observatory
Marine Park coralworld.co.il/en
Love fish as well as birds, then you’re also in luck! Eilat has a genuine tropical sea right on its doorstep, teeming with hundreds of species of fish and invertebrates. And what better way to see them all than from the deepest underwater observatory on the planet. Walking down to six metres below the surface, into a natural reef, is quite the experience. Relaxing, educational and truly something you won’t find at home, this is somewhere I could stay all day.
Underwater Observatory Marine Park is one of the many attractions that provides fun for all the family
My new favourite place! Snorkelling around Joseph Rock and Moses Rock is an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experience. The water is remarkably clear, offering a front-row seat to one of the most densely populated coral reefs in the world, with hundreds of species of tropical – and very colourful – fish darting just inches from your mask.
Dolphin Reef
dolphinreef.co.il/en
Think the polar opposite of Sea World and you will have Dolphin Reef. The two current resident dolphins, Nana and Nikita, live in their natural environment and are free to leave for the open sea whenever they choose. The site is all about freedom of choice; there are no forced tricks or jumps, just the chance to watch these majestic creatures up close.
Stalbet Relaxation Pools
dolphinreef.co.il/en/stalbet
It’s not just the dolphins who are well looked after. This adults-only spa provides heated sea-water pools, in a botanical garden setting, that let you drift, float and truly relax. If you want the full experience, book the ‘Watsu’ treatment where a therapist moves you through the water to help you completely switch off.
Camel Ranch
camel-ranch.co.il/en/
Ever pictured yourself riding a camel for a trek through the Israeli desert? Nor me! But I’m so glad I did. The Camel Ranch is a must on any trip to Eilat, especially as it offers so much more – including quadbike style EZ Riders, electric mountain bikes and its spectacular Feast event with unlimited meats, drinks and live entertainment. Just remember to leave with a pack of their famous Bedouin tea.
Top 94
top94.co.il
This is a massive indoor space in the industrial zone that’s a godsend when the sun gets too hot or the kids get too restless. Its 30 activities offer something for everyone – from archery and gokarting to high ropes and the tallest indoor climbing wall in Israel – with friendly and patient staff to help you get to grips with it all.
Terminal Park terminalpark.co.il
Another great spot for the family is Terminal Park, the city’s brand-new project, built on the runway of the old airport that many readers will have flown to in the past. A community-focused space, it’s part amusement park, part urban hang-out – with a Ferris wheel, extreme sports areas, outdoor cinema and food trucks.
Timna Park
parktimna.co.il/en/timna-park/ Exploring Timna Park – 15,000 acres of desert landscapes, ancient history and fascinating geology – is something that
will stay with you long after you leave, especially if you do the night-time lantern tour. There’s Solomon’s Pillars (massive sandstone columns lit up after dark), the Mushroom (a rock formation sitting on 6,000-year-old copper mines), and the Arches (natural stone windows you can actually climb through). It really does feel like you’ve walked back into the days of the Bible.
WHERE TO EAT:
DnA Burger
instagram.com/dnaburgerr/
Sometimes the best food really is on your doorstep. I discovered this hip burger joint, tired and hungry after a flight, as it was opposite our hotel… and one of the tastiest burgers I’ve ever eaten (and that wasn’t just the hunger talking).
Omer’s omers-eilat.com
If you like meat in bread, you will love Omer’s. Courses so large and filling that I’m afraid I can’t tell you what the desserts were like. A fun and inexpensive place for a lovely lunch as you hop from one place to another.
Dolphin Reef Restaurant dolphinreef.co.il/en
Dolphin Reef is somewhere you will want to spend at least half a day. Don’t take a packed lunch though… as its restaurant should be a standalone part of your itinerary. Quick brunch type bites are its forte, with a shakshuka to die for. The nicest part? Eating, while listening to the sounds of the birds and waves.
Pedro
pedro.co.il
A classy dinner venue for meat lovers, seafood lovers and, especially wine lovers, this restaurant is located in a quiet neighbourhood and has great service –giving you the best of all worlds. If you like steak, then make sure to go on Meat Monday.
Snorkeling near Joseph Rock and Moses Rock
Meat and wine are on the menu at Pedro
A panoramic view of the central tourist area of the gorgeous city of Eilat – picture by Thomas Balagula
WHERE TO STAY:
Isla Brown 42 brownhotels.com/eilat/isla
This five-star new build is elegant and centrally located. With gorgeous pool area, huge rooms and a breakfast buffet that never ends, the Isla Brown is a luxurious place to enjoy your stay.
Timna Park
parktimna.co.il/en/timna-parkaccomodation
Choose from guest rooms, caravans, camping or glamping for an evening under the stars and a morning of spectacular desert and lake views. A really special experience for a night of your trip.
KIBBUTZIM TO SEE:
Neot Semadar
neot-semadar.com/en/
Recently recognised by UN Tourism as one of the world’s Best Tourism Villages, Neot Semadar fully deserves the accolade. It combines striking architecture, ecological agriculture and a deep commitment to
creativity, all built and run by the people who live there. The on-site winery and art shop are ideal for picking up gifts to take home for others… and yourself.
The stunning architecture of Neot Semadar
Kibbutz Elifaz elifaz.co.il
A quietly compelling slice of desert life, Elifaz gives a taste of the ‘traditional’ Israeli kibbutz. A cooperative community focused on agriculture, solar energy and small-scale tourism, it’s a place to notice the little things that make life special.
WHO TO SHOW YOU AROUND:
Shai Cohen Tour Guide instagram.com/cohensh1/?hl=en
If you want to see any city properly, it’s best to have a local tour guide. Shai knows every single square inch of Eilat and everyone in Eilat knows Shai. His insights
not only into the attractions of the city but also its geography, culture, history and geopolitics make him the ideal host. Shai would often time a journey to pass a certain place at a specific moment, just to see it in its full splendour, or take a quick detour if he thought there was something our group shouldn’t miss. He’s that good. Ministry of Tourism Eilat eilat.city/en/ministry-of-tourisem
Get in touch with the tourist board for
maps, event schedules, advice and any other information a tourist might require – offered in 14 languages.
The Essex Jewish News would like to thank the Ministry of Tourism Eilat along with Itamar Elitzur and Sharon Ofer of the Eilat Hotel Association, Hollie Wright of UK Office of the Israel Ministry of Tourism and Jo Rosenblatt of Noteworthy Communications for making sure we got to see everything Eilat has to offer.
I found out I had lymphoma on 9th February 2024. I was in shock. At 35, how could I have cancer? I didn’t know anyone my age who had been through it. Making that first call to Chai was difficult, but everyone there was either in the same boat as me or was there to help people like me.
What an amazing place. Chai truly cares for everyone and helped me get my life back on track.
Over the last 10 years, the number of young
For
Our Simon with Mayor Eli Lankri at Terminal Park
Essex Jewish News Editor Simon Rothstein in Eilat with journalists from Britain’s other major Jewish newspapers
THE MOURNING AFTER...
AVIEW FROM THE SIDELINES
By MANNY ROBINSON
CCORDING to a report in the newspaper Metro, a 74-year-old Indian air force veteran, Mohan Lal, faked his own death and funeral in the village of Konchi. Covered in a white sheet, Mohan lay in a coffin and was carried in a procession. At the end of the procession, he rose from the coffin to show he was alive.
Meshugah? Maybe. But Mohan said he faked his own death just to find out how many people would turn up for his funeral and what kind of respect he could receive.
In fact, hundreds did turn up and the news has a certain resonance with Jewish people at a levoyah or shiva.
When you are a mourner, you greet relatives and close friends but the rest are just a sea of faces that simply do not register. You really do not know all who came to the funeral.
When it comes to the shiva, the house is usually full before the evening service. Again, you know some faces; others appear to be complete strangers.
It is only when the shiva is over that you begin to think clearly. You do not know for sure who turned up or did not send letters of condolence but you do know for sure who DIDN’T. And that is when a broiges begins!
A friend told me: “My late father died three years ago. We informed his side of the family, cousins etc, but no-one turned up either for the funeral or the levoyah. Nor did anyone make a phone call, send a condolence card, or send a message on social media like Facebook.”
There could, of course, be many reasons for the non-appearance of people you might reasonably have expected to come and convey their sympathies.
• A person was not informed of the passing because those organising the funeral and levoyah had no telephone number.
• Age or ill health could have prevented someone from going.
A super soup
• The shiva, far from being seven days in length, is, with some families, now either three, two or even one day, giving people little chance to change existing plans.
The concept of many shivas has changed, too. The whole object is to convey condolences and comfort to the mourners but I have been to shivas that, before the service began, looked like school reunions with people who haven’t seen each other for a while, hugging each other, pumping each other’s hands and exchanging reminiscences while little attention is given to the mourners except a “Wish you long life” as they leave the home.
Questions put to the mourners have often left me bewildered. At one shiva a man told the mourners how excited he was to have bought André Rieu tickets for Wembley Arena in May; another complained about the parking outside the house and a third wanted to know chapter and verse about the deceased’s illness.
There is, of course, one famous story at a shiva, recounted by Rabbi Gideon Sylvester, an Israeli rabbi, when a nonJewish man visited the house and made polite conversation but then surprised everyone when he stepped up to the table laden with food, picked up a cake, tucked it under his arm and then left.
The next day when a mutual friend discreetly asked him about the incident, he explained: “I am not familiar with Jewish traditions, but a friend told me it was customary to take food. I didn’t want to offend anyone, so I took a fruit cake. It was delicious.”
Stating the obvious
IAM a stickler for the correct usage of words, as the editor of this newspaper knows so well!
So, I get quite hot under the collar about mainstream broadcasters who refer to a “Jewish synagogue” or a “Jewish rabbi”. Is there any other kind?
You don’t hear them referring to Pope Leo as the “Catholic Pope”, so why state the obvious when it comes to synagogues and rabbis?
LOUIS B MAYER, the undisputed king of the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer film studios, was brought up in a strictly religious home... but when he was old enough he escaped what he considered the “shackles” of Judaism to become an American through and through, even changing his birthday to the 4th of July, American Independence Day.
But Mayer made one exception. His mother was the real influence in his life and the all-powerful film mogul had a daily standing order of chicken soup made to her recipe. And that was the only way he demonstrated his Jewish affiliation.
As we prepare for a Seder or two, we also look forward to chicken soup
as part of the meal. So what’s so special about chicken soup? Every woman I have ever known has said that their mother or bubba had the greatest ever recipe for chicken soup. And they are probably all correct!
I remember fondly as a child eating the fowl’s eggs and the feet. I think my mother used to call the feet fissel. Sadly, those two ingredients do not appear to be available or accepted today.
The “Jewish penicillin”, as it has been called over the years, has been the answer for thousands of people suffering from colds or chest infections.
In fact, the 12th-century Jewish physician and philosopher Maimonides recommended chicken broth as a
panacea for various ailments, including asthma. So when you get a cold or a chest infection there is only one way to recover... take chicken soup.
But chicken soup wasn’t only a “Jewish” thing. The Ancient Greeks also had their own version of chicken broth. The Chinese also claimed chicken soup for its healing properties.
So how did chicken soup become such a staple food for Jews? It must have been because historically chickens were a more affordable and accessible source of kosher meat than any other kind in many parts of Eastern Europe.
Making chicken soup enabled families to maximise the nutrition from a single chicken using all its
parts, including bones and giblets, and stretching the ingredients with water and inexpensive additions like vegetables or matzo balls.
While Shabbat is the big event for chicken soup, the high heat retention of soup and stews meant that the soup could be prepared before Shabbat came in at sunset on a Friday and kept warm until the meal. With Pesach just around the corner, chicken soup will once again take centre stage. Tomato soup? Mushroom soup? Vegetable soup? You have no chance in the popularity soup stakes! Make a note of the date –November 12. It’s National Chicken Soup for the Soul Day in America! No, you couldn’t make it up.
By SHELLEY POSNER
Cookery
PESACH
Sometimes the thought of all the Pesach preparation – cleaning, shopping, cooking etc – is actually worse than the reality. Being organised and well prepared is definitely the key.
I try to keep the menus simple and straightforward with just regular ingredients and not stress too much about finding replacements for things I can’t use over this festival. I used to experiment with more modern recipes, but found in the end that the family much prefer the basic old-fashioned ones!
If you can also prepare dishes in advance and get them in the freezer, then it definitely takes the pressure off.
I usually prepare part of my kitchen ready for Pesach a few days before and then get down to some serious cooking of dishes that will freeze well.
Whatever you are eating this Pesach, I wish you and your families a happy and Kosher le Pesach Yom Tov – sending good wishes and Chag Sameach to you all!
ROASTED CHICKEN WITH ZA’ATAR
This is a straightforward way to cook and eat chicken without any fuss and is therefore ideal for a Pesach/Seder meal. You can also easily upscale it for more guests.
Please note that some traditions do not allow the use of cumin over Pesach. If you want an alternative, then replace with the same amount of paprika.
Ingredients:
1 fresh roster chicken, cut into 8 portions
6 tbsp oil
3 tbsp za’atar
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp garlic salt
60 ml sultanas
60 ml pine nuts, roasted in a dry pan
2 red onions, cut into rings
1 tbsp brown sugar
Chopped fresh parsley to decorate Salt & pepper
Method:
Preheat the oven to 180 °C / 350 °F. In a small bowl mix together 3 tbsp oil, the za’atar and the garlic salt. Place the chicken pieces skin side up in an ovenproof baking dish so they are in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Using a brush or a small teaspoon, brush the za’atar mixture all over the chicken pieces making sure they are completely covered. Pop them in the oven and roast for around 50–60 minutes until they are brown and cooked through.
Meanwhile put the remaining oil into a
frying pan and add the onions. Sprinkle them with the sugar. Cook on a medium heat until translucent then turn the heat down and cook them slowly, turning them over every few minutes until they become browned and caramelised. Keep your eye on them as they can easily change to burnt in seconds.
Add the sultanas and cook another minute or two. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
When the chicken is ready, top the pieces with the onion mixture and scatter the pine nuts over the top. Decorate with chopped parsley and serve at once.
POACHED FISH WITH SWEET PEPPER SAUCE
This recipe can be made with any white fish and also with salmon. You can increase the spicy heat content or reduce it as you please to suit your own taste. It’s pretty quick and simple to prepare and makes an easy supper with a jacket potato and something green on the side.
Ingredients:
900 g of any filleted white fish or salmon
3 tbsp olive or vegetable oil
2 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
2 onions, thinly sliced into half moons
1 red pepper
1 yellow pepper
1 orange pepper
1 tbsp tomato purée
½ tsp sweet paprika
Chilli flakes or hot paprika or harissa paste – as above 360 ml water
Salt and pepper
Chopped coriander or parsley or dill to serve
Method:
Cut the fish into strips around 5 inches long and pat dry with kitchen paper. In a large frying pan heat the oil. Add the onions and garlic and sauté gently for 5 minutes. Meanwhile deseed all the peppers and cut them into strips. Add them to the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in the sweet paprika and season with salt and pepper. Add the hot spice of your choice, the tomato purée and pour in the water and mix well. Turn up the heat and bring to the boil. Place the fish slices on top of the pepper mixture, turn the heat down, cover with a lid and cook for around 5 minutes until the fish is cooked through. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as required. Place the fish slices gently onto a serving dish and top with the peppers. Scatter over the chopped herbs and serve at once.
FLOURLESS CHOCOLATE CLOUD CAKE
I found this recipe in a Waitrose magazine years ago and it is perfect for a Pesach dessert or with a cup of tea in the afternoon. It is quite rich, so you only need a small slice!
Ingredients:
250 g salted butter
250 g dark chocolate, chopped into pieces
1 tbsp espresso coffee powder (or regular)
4 eggs, separated
250 g caster sugar
60 g cocoa powder, sifted, plus extra for dusting
300 g frozen summer berry fruits –the supermarket packs are KLP if they contain no sugar
200 ml plain yoghurt, crème fraîche or double cream
Mint leaves to serve
Method:
Preheat the oven to 180 °C / 350 °F / Gas mark 4
Line a 23 cm springform tin with baking parchment or a cake liner. Place the chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl and melt gently over boiling water until smooth. Mix the coffee powder with 50 ml of boiling water. Set both mixtures aside to cool a little.
Using electric hand beaters or a freestanding mixing machine, whisk together the egg yolks with the sugar for at least 3 minutes until pale and thickened. Stir in the chocolate mixture, the coffee and the cocoa powder and fold together gently until thoroughly blended.
In another bowl whisk the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Stir in a large tablespoon of the egg whites into the chocolate mixture to loosen it, then carefully fold in the rest until the mixture is an even colour.
Pour the mixture into the cake tin, level it out on the top and bake for 35–40 minutes until risen. It will probably crack over the top but that’s fine – don’t worry! Leave it to cool on a wire rack. It will probably sink slightly in the middle too. Meanwhile, put the summer fruits into a pan over a low heat and cook for 7–8 minutes until warmed through but still holding their shape. Allow them to cool. When you are ready to serve the cake, peel off the paper and place on a pretty plate or cake stand. Smooth over the yoghurt or crème fraîche. If you’re using double cream, you will need to whip it a little until thick before using. Top with the berries, draining them from any juices in the pan. Scatter over a few mint leaves to decorate.
By leaving a Future Gift to Jewish Care in your Will, you’ll be doing something beyond incredible. Future Giving ensures that vulnerable older people in our community are supported, even beyond your lifetime.
To find out more about Future Giving or our free Will-writing service visit jewishcare.org/futuregiving or scan the QR code
Celebrating 20 years of the Ghanaian charity born in Essex
By MICAELA BLITZ
WHEN Jamie Belnikoff graduated from university, he volunteered in Ghana, spending several months working at a vocational school in Baworo in the Ashanti region.
Inspired by this experience, and determined to continue supporting the students after returning home to Essex, Jamie and his brother Darren founded an organisation dedicated to educating, supporting and empowering some of the world’s poorest children.
Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, Onechild Ghana partners directly with 12 vocational schools across the Ashanti region of Ghana. These schools, set up by the Ghanaian Government, are known as ICCES (Integrated Community Centre for Employable Skills) and teach core skills such as electrical installation, dressmaking and masonry – as well as maths, English and health.
Students undertake threeyear training programmes to gain qualifications that benefit their futures by enabling access to further education, secure meaningful employment, or for those with an entrepreneurial drive, start their own business.
Whilst higher education can often be limited by financial barriers, Onechild Ghana has seen that by equipping young
people in Ghana with practical skills and opportunities for independence, this helps them to break the cycle of poverty.
Central to the charity’s mission is the commitment to encouraging autonomy. This was something Jamie was determined to embed from the very beginning. He believed it was vital that the organisation did not “dictate from the UK”, but instead worked collaboratively, building strong partnerships and meaningful relationships with those based locally. This has allowed the charity to ensure a genuine and sustainable foundation.
One example of this belief being put into practice was at a school in a remote part of Ghana where limited access to bread meant that many students were going hungry. The charity funded equipment to create a breadmaking course, so students could learn to bake their own bread. Students are now self-sufficient with enough bread to eat and the ability to sell some to nearby villages generating much needed income to support the school, and teaching valuable business skills to the students.
Onechild Ghana is unique in that it is run entirely by volunteers, who give up their own time to help support this work. This means that there are no overheads
or salaries to pay so everything raised goes directly to the projects.
As Jamie explains: “We are fully transparent with our donations, and everyone who supports our projects can choose exactly where their money goes. This gives much more of a sense of the difference every penny makes to young people. It is very humbling to see what a massive impact all our work has on people, and this encourages us to want to continue.”
Currently, there are eight volunteers based in the UK, with others based in America and the Middle East, but they are always keen to have other volunteers join their team, and are keen to find people with events management or marketing skills to help raise awareness and encourage engagement.
Running a charity with his brother means that they are able to support each other and work to their strengths. Jamie, who now lives in Borehamwood, and Darren, who is based in Loughton, juggle charity work alongside their jobs, families and home life commitments. Although this can be tricky at times, Jamie recognises the importance of what the charity does and is supported by his wife, Michelle, who is also involved in the charity.
Many members of the local community have also helped in supporting the students in Ghana, with teachers and families from WIJPS, along with members of Chigwell and Hainault Synagogue coming together to collect stationery and other essentials to be donated to the schools in Ghana. They have also run several fundraising football tournaments at Fairlop Powerleague. Since setting up the charity, Jamie and Darren estimate that it has supported around 15,000 disadvantaged children, and to mark the 20th anniversary, Jamie and Darren are hoping to raise £20,000 – a thousand pounds for every year they have been in operation to help expand further.
Jamie said: “Over the past twenty years, we have achieved so much thanks to the incredible support of so many. We would particularly like to thank those from the Essex community who have stood alongside us on this journey, and we hope they will continue to do so as we look to scale our impact and support even more projects in the years ahead.”
• If you would like to support the charity, please email info@onechildghana. org. For anyone who would like to find out more about getting involved, visit the website www.onechildghana.org.
Local Angels go Wicked to raise £31,500 for Jewish Care What we’ve seen
Words by SIMON ROTHSTEIN Pictures by JUSTIN GRAINGE
WEST End star Emma Kingston, who is currently playing Elphaba in hit show Wicked, helped Jewish Care’s Local Angels Committee raise an incredible £31,500 to support the charity’s essential services for the northeast London and Essex Jewish community.
Emma – whose credits also include Les Misérables, Evita and Heathers: The Musical – gave an intimate live performance at the Angels’ annual lunch, including a stunning rendition of On My Own from Les Mis.
In a Q&A, hosted by theatre maker Nick Cassenbaum, Emma shared with the audience how she knew from a young age that she wanted to be an actress or singer and that it was her two grandmothers who instilled in her a passion for theatre and, together with her singing teacher, helped shape her journey.
She described how when she decided she wanted to go to drama school and become an actress, her parents were concerned and thought she should have a back-up plan. However, she said they couldn’t have been more excited when she told them face-to-face on Kol Nidre that she’d got the part of Elphaba in Wicked. “Their reaction was gold,” she said.
Emma also revealed that at her very first appearance in Wicked, in typical Jewish fashion, there were at least 60 people in the theatre’s audience who she knew!
Ellisa Estrin, Jewish Care’s Director of Fundraising & Marketing, used the lunch to tell guests more about the opening
of the new Sugar & Ronson Campus in Redbridge in late summer 2026.
A fly-through video showcased the modern, vibrant space, which will bring together all local services under one roof, including The Sugar Family Care Home, The Ronson Community Centre, The Dennis Centre for dementia care, Jewish Care’s Social Work and Community Support Team, a Meals on Wheels hub, technology support for older people, youth leadership programmes, and mental health services. The site will also feature the area’s only licensed kosher meat restaurant and dairy café, plus an on-site hairdresser.
Ellisa said: “This campus will truly be the beating heart of our community – a place to connect, celebrate and care for one another. It will embody everything Jewish Care stands for – providing the highest-quality care that respects and celebrates Jewish life, from Shabbat to festivals, with warmth and understanding that is second to none.”
Gayle Klein, Jewish Care’s Vice-Chair and Chair of the Local Angels Committee, highlighted the committee’s fundraising record, noting that since 2008 Local Angels supporters have raised nearly £600,000 for north-east London and Essex services.
She added: “This new campus is very close to my heart. From attending club as a child to volunteering locally and now leading the Local Angels Committee, it’s a full-circle moment. The Essex Jewish community has always been at the centre of my life.”
By BY MICAELA BLITZ AND SIMON ROTHSTEIN
Having numerous excellent theatres in Essex, and so many writers and stars to come from our region, means we are never far from something exciting to watch. Between the two of us, we caught four fantastic shows recently.
Fiddler on the Roof, at the Cliffs Pavilion in Southend, was a triumph. Having previously seen it at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, it didn’t skip a beat or lose any of its magic on tour. Perhaps the opposite – being a short drive rather than a long train journey away, and seeing so many friends from Southend synagogues in the foyer, made the experience even more enjoyable. As with the Regent’s Park performance, the staging, costumes and musical numbers carried the day. It took a few minutes to get over everyone speaking in their own accents rather than the usual Fiddler Eastern European/Yiddish twang, but then the brilliance of all the performances became clear – especially that of our very own Essex actress Jodie Jacobs, who returned ‘home’ to play Golde. Song-wise, the incredible choreography of The Dream, the pure joy of To Life and the chaotic energy of The Rumour will live long in the memory. To have West End-quality shows on our doorstep is a treat, and we can’t wait to return to the Cliffs for more.
Revenge: After the Levoyah, from Essex theatre maker Nick Cassenbaum, toured the country, including a run at the Soho Theatre. It tells the story of twin siblings Lauren and Dan (non-identical) attending the funeral of their grandfather. There they encounter East End gangster Malcolm Spivak, who has come not only to pay his respects but to recruit the pair into a cunning – though deeply ill-thoughtout – plan to kidnap Jeremy Corbyn. This was Essex 2019, and Malcolm had ‘had enough’. Through this meshuga adventure – which saw the police, MI5 and even Mossad getting involved – Gemma Barnett and Charlie Cassen not only played the twins but every character, from goldchain-wearing Spivak himself, to the Dr Martens wearing liberal female rabbi and frail yet lethal Holocaust survivor Moishe. The pair transitioned effortlessly between roles, often at breakneck speed, as the story gathered momentum. A deserved winner of the Edinburgh First Award 2024, Revenge: After the Levoyah, directed by Emma Jude Harris, was thought-provoking, funny, well-observed and unapologetically Jewish.
Cinderella and the Matzo Ball was this year’s JW3 pantomime, also written by Nick Cassenbaum, and again fits into the unapologetically Jewish category. Now in its third year, the panto had become a much-loved part of the Chanukah calendar, and this may have been the best one yet. A reimagining of the classic fairy tale, it included all the traditional elements of pantomime plus a huge helping of humour as Jewish as chicken soup. Talia Pick shone in her pantomime debut in the title role of Cinderella, a Jewish baker living in Yeast Finchley and working for her family business, Breadzinski’s, where she is made to do everything by her nasty sisters, Milchig (Rosie Yadid) and Fleishig (Libby Liburd). She dreams of escaping her servitude, hoping that an invitation from Prince Charming to attend the Matzo Ball would be her chance. A well-thoughtout soundtrack, packed with knowing kosher references, elevated the show. From the opening number, One Short Day in the Kosher Kingdom, to the finale, Moshiach, all performed by the onstage band – Klezmer specialist and musical director Josh Middleton, trumpeter and tuba player Oliver Presman, and awardwinning drummer Migdalia van der Hoven – it was clear this was a panto that joyfully celebrated Jewishness. Fun and familyfriendly, it was perfect viewing for all ages. Roll on next year.
Mother Goose at the Colchester Mercury Theatre was another highlight of the panto season. The Mercury is an incredible venue, with staging and lighting as good as anything you’d find in London. But the real treat was being there to see the 10th anniversary of the partnership of comic duo Antony Stuart-Hicks and Dale Superville – the best Dame and sidekick in the business – who returned to star as Gertie Goose and Billy the Goose respectively. Their hilarious chemistry, ad-libbing and quick wit – with jokes that worked on every level and constant banter with the audience – made this a must for anyone’s festive schedule. Sasha Latoya (Fairy Fortuna) and Jaimie Pruden (Baroness Bellinora Badapple) also revelled in their roles, while Kemi Clarke (Bailey) and Daisy Greenwood (Gracie Goose) added the sweetness and romance to balance the laughter. The highlight was the madcap panto standard If I Was Not Upon the Stage, which had everyone laughing from start to finish. The Mercury is definitely a golden egg for Essex theatre.
West End star Emma Kingston performs at Jewish Care’s Local Angels Committee fundraising lunch
The Angels with Emma and Nick who helped raise funds to support essential Jewish Care services in our region
Mercury celebrates most successful year ever The Manningtree Witches
COLCHESTER’S Mercury Theatre is celebrating its most successful year ever - with a record high 120,000 people attending its shows.
And that figure is only set to increase, after a fully sold-out run of its incredible homegrown show The Manningtree Witches (reviewed to the right).
The theatre’s Executive Director Deborah Sawyerr said: “Times are challenging for regional theatre, to say the least, but I’m pleased to say that the Mercury is bucking the trend.
“This year has been our most successful ever, with over 120,000 audience members attending more than 380 shows, along with over 20,000 participating in our creative engagement work here in Colchester and across the county.”
Speaking at the world premiere of The Manningtree Witches, she added: “We are proud to say that this piece of new writing on our main stage is our most successful Mercury production ever. We’re completely sold out, with over 9,000
people already booked in to see the production. So tonight, you all have the very special ticket.
“This show embodies what the Mercury is all about - to showcase local talent on a professional stage. Everything you see tonight has been created, built, designed and costumed right here in Colchester.”
The Mercury’s success is backed by its revenue funders – Arts Council England, Colchester City Council and Essex County Council – showing the importance of arts and culture, even in these hard economic times.
This is further supported by sponsors and corporate members, enabling the Mercury to invest in new and unique productions, and a new partnership with the National Theatre through their Generate Programme.
Giving a message that will be welcomed by all our readers, Deborah added: “Whether you are a regular supporter or coming to one of our shows for the first time, we are so grateful and look forward to welcoming you.”
STRONG COMMUNITIES, STRONGER ISRAEL.
Israel’s borders are more than lines on a map. They are living, breathing communities - home to families, pioneers and young leaders who choose to build their lives on the frontier. When Israel’s border communities are strong, the whole country is stronger.
JNF UK is strengthening Israel from the edges inwards – rebuilding shattered communities, restoring daily life and empowering a new generation to shape Israel’s future.
By SIMON ROTHSTEIN
THROUGHOUT my career in the media, I’ve been fortunate to attend a number of film and theatre world premieres in London, New York and LA.
The Manningtree Witches was my first ever in my home county of Essex… but boy, did it deliver.
Based on A.K. Blakemore’s awardwinning novel, and adapted for the stage by Ava Pickett, this historical drama is a fiercely modern exploration of fear, control and misogyny set in Essex in the time of the English Civil War.
The play follows 17-year-old Rebecca West and her mother, Anne, as the arrival of Matthew Hopkins – who will become England’s first Witchfinder General –sparks accusations, hysteria, and ultimately death.
Lucy Mangan is spellbinding as Rebecca, while Gina Isaac is fearless as Anne. They are joined by Fiona Branson, Amy Cudden, Mia Jerome and a fantastic female ensemble, who – alongside a community chorus – vividly bring to life the women Hopkins targeted, figures largely erased from history until now.
The male cast members deliver equally strong performances. Sam Mitchell has a quiet menace as Matthew Hopkins, while Gavin Fowler breathes life into the complex character of John Edes, whose ultimate betrayal of Rebecca leaves you with chills.
Co-produced with the renowned physical theatre company Frantic Assembly, the production pulses with tension under Natasha Rickman’s direction – all backed by incredible set design, lighting and music score.
An intense, moving, and at times
My daughter Katie, 15, who joined me, summed it up perfectly, saying: “This was a really powerful, compelling, poignant, beautiful, moving play about the struggles of women that really makes you re-evaluate your views on the witch trials and how we remember them and trivialise them, as well as being an amazing criticism of misogyny that is still relevant today.”
This was West End or Broadwayquality theatre, created right here in Essex. It was thought-provoking, unforgettable, and left Katie and me discussing (and Googling) the history long after the final curtain.
The Manningtree Witches is a triumph for the Mercury. Everyone involved should be proud of a truly landmark production.
darkly funny production, The Manningtree Witches gives a voice to the women lost to history, while showing how such voices are still often ignored and undermined today.
Lucy Mangan shines in this wonderful show - photograph by Pamela Raith
Mia Jerome, Gina Isaac, Maria Louis, Fiona Branson in Manningtree Witches - photography by Pamela Raith
As a new chapter begins… here’s how it started
A NEW era unfolds this year with the opening of Jewish Care’s Sugar & Ronson Campus. Here, MANNY ROBINSON charts the history of the site, linking the old Sinclair House to the new purpose-built premises, where care, community and dementia support will continue.
Almost 60 years ago, Dr Sidney Gold, a local GP, and Bernard Sinclair, a pharmacist who had a dispensary in Stepney, recognised that there was a generation of people
marrying and moving from the East End and settling in Ilford.
Sidney was already leading the Ilford Jewish Youth Club in Mansfield Road, Ilford, and Bernard offered to lead the fundraising efforts for a new and much bigger site. The land that Sinclair House was built on was purchased with Bernard putting down the £100 deposit.
The pair along with Frank Cass (a book publisher and the man who started Essex Jewish News, then called The Bridge) and Ellis Birk were among a group of very driven local individuals who made this vision into a reality. There were many more people behind the vision, but sadly far too many to mention here.
The Redbridge Jewish Youth club was opened at Sinclair House on 4 May 1969. To further develop the site, an extension was built in the mid-
1970s, adding a sports hall and outside football courts. Shortly afterwards, the Redbridge Jewish Day Centre for the Elderly joined the family and the Redbridge Jewish Youth and Community Centre was formed.
Being an independent charity, finances were a challenge. In fact, at one stage in the 1980s, the community were asked to help with paying some of the gas bill!
When the charity’s financial struggles failed to improve, the Redbridge Jewish Youth and Community Centre merged with Jewish Care in 1997. This coming together undoubtably enabled the Centre to continue to thrive and carry on operating in Redbridge and Essex.
In 1994, with an ever-growing need for day care for older people, driven by Frank Cass and Phillip Leigh (then Chair
of the Centre). Lord Alan Sugar helped the Centre to open the Sugar Wing, which enabled the Centre to cater for over 100 people a day.
Jewish Care’s continued passion to support the community has led them to build The Sugar & Ronson Campus on the Sinclair House site. It will house a 66-bed care home, community centre, dementia day centre and be a base for social work and family carers support, as well as Meals on Wheels and the MIKE youth development programme. It will also accommodate Jami’s community hub, ensuring tailored support for mental health and wellbeing. It will bring all of Jewish Care’s services under one roof in the brand-new campus and will be a milestone for the local community for generations to come.
Shylock’s Venice – A remarkable story about the Jewish Ghetto
By LINDA NEWMAN
APACKED audience attended a fascinating talk by author Harry Freedman at the recently refurbished Chigwell & Hainault Synagogue.
Arranged in conjunction with the Jewish Historical Society of Essex, the discussion illustrated the highs and lows of what was the world’s first ghetto from 1516 until the capture of Venice by Napoleon in 1798, with tales from Harry’s book Shylock’s Venice.
Harry – whose previous books have covered varied subjects including the Talmud, Kabbalah and Leonard Cohen – spoke about the creation of the ghetto.
no sanitation and living conditions were miserable. And yet despite these terrible conditions a cultural renaissance took place, for while the gates were locked at night (and patrolled by guards paid for by the Jews), during the day the inhabitants were free to walk the streets outside.
He explained: “For centuries the Venetians had excluded Jews from their city, but eventually they let them circumvent the Church’s prohibition on Christians lending money. However, their presence in the city created conflict in opinion and the Venetian government’s solution was to exile all the Jews to one place.
“The ghetto was in a square muddy field, surrounded on four sides by tall, narrow houses. It was squalid, there was
“Scholarship flourished and Venice became the centre of printing Hebrew books when Daniel Bomberg, a Flemish Christian printer and publisher, came to Venice around 1511. He produced major works in Hebrew, including the Hebrew Bible and the Talmud – the standard text and structure of which remain in use today.
“Increasingly, Bomberg relied on learned rabbis from the ghetto to act as editors and proofreaders. Jews and Christians mingled intellectually, learnt from each other, shared ideas and entered modernity together.”
Shylock’s Venice includes amusing stories of a raft of characters including England’s King Henry VIII.
Harry continued: “So esteemed was Venice’s scholarly reputation that even the King of England sent an emissary there to get Jewish opinion. He wanted to divorce Catherine of Aragon, the Pope had refused him a divorce so Henry decided he needed someone to consult the Talmud to tell him what to do. The emissary returned to England with a copy of the Talmud – and no divorce allowed!”
And what of Shylock as in the book’s title?
The author replied: “The cultural renaissance in the Venice ghetto is often obscured from history by this fictional character of Shylock. Shakespeare’s ambivalent treatment of his anti-hero reflects attitudes to Jews in Elizabethan England – but the myth is wholly ignorant of the literary, cultural and interfaith revival that Shylock would have experienced in Venice’s ghetto.”
Daniel Rosenberg, who was chairing
the meeting in the absence of the Jewish Historical Society of England’s Essex branch Chair Richard Cohen, said: “We are used to a very high quality of speakers at our JHSE Essex meetings here at Chigwell & Hainault Synagogue, but Harry Freedman’s was one of the best we have
heard. I have never seen our audience as attentive as while they were listening to his insights on the Jewish ghetto in Venice.”
• Shylock’s Venice: The Remarkable Story of Venice’s Jews and the Ghetto by Harry Freedman is published by Bloomsbury and out now.
Dr Sidney Gold laying the foundation stone for Sinclair House in 1968
The Redbridge landmark in the 1980s
Harry Freedman (pictured left) in discussion with Daniel Rosenbergpicture by Melvyn Gold
OBITUARIES TRIBUTES
DR RAYMOND KENNARD
WHEN the sheiks of Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain and Oman had problems with their oil business, they turned to a Jew for support. The Jew was Raymond Kennard, then a member of Chabad in Gants Hill.
“They always knew that I was Jewish,” Raymond would tell me. “In fact, they referred to me as ‘Archi – Ishmael’s brother’.”
This was just one of the fascinating aspects of a remarkable life. Born Raymond Kosky, he was brought up by his mother Lilly, a seamstress. His father Woolf played little part in his childhood, though they later reconciled.
Raymond’s incredible career began in 1960 when he completed his National Service and decided to go on The Knowledge to become a black cab driver.
Having left secondary school at 14 without any academic qualifications, he
then decided to learn Italian. His thirst for knowledge saw him learn English grammar too in order to comprehend his Italian. That thirst continued unabated, and he won his way to a place at Brentwood College of Further Education and then onto Cambridge University, where he gained his B.Ed., being the top student.
Any other person would have been content with what they had achieved, but Raymond decided that a Ph.D. would be his next target, producing a massive twovolume tome on social conditions between Sephardi and Ashkenazi Jews in Israel, which gave him his doctorate.
His career then encompassed being a teacher, university lecturer, Open University counsellor, Fellow of the Institute of Magistrates, devising the project for education in the Docklands Development, chairman of the North East London Probation Committee, a JP at Barking Magistrates Court, and a founder member of the St Leonard’s Society for the care and rehabilitation of offenders.
One of his greatest moments was when he was presented with the Wilkinson Sword of Excellence for his work within the probation service – the first civilian ever to receive the award, which is usually given to members of the Royal Family and the upper echelons of the armed services.
But there was one item that was his pride and joy – a framed box that had pride of place in his home. Not the Cambridge University degree, not the title of magistrate, not the probation service award. It was his London black cab badge, No 20408.
The driving force behind Raymond’s success was undoubtedly his late wife and
TO THOSE WE HAVE LOST, WRITTEN BY MANNY ROBINSON
rock, Sheila Ashley, whom he met when they were both members of the Oxford and St George’s youth club in the East End. The couple first lived in Hackney before moving to Redbridge and finally to Chigwell. Sheila, a well-known caterer, passed away in 2011.
Raymond is survived by his two sons, Andrew and David, six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren, one of whom he had not met, missing him by a week.
DAVID WOLFF
WITHOUT David Wolff, it is doubtful if Jewish football leagues would ever have flourished to the extent that they have in this country.
David, an avid West Ham fan, grew up in Forest Gate and attended Stratford Grammar School. Following his Bar Mitzvah in 1957, he joined the local youth club Ivri Maccabi, and it wasn’t long before he started playing an active role.
The club formed an Under-16 team, and David was asked to be their manager.
Although not a prolific footballer himself – by his own admission – he enjoyed the involvement.
He is best known as Chair of the Maccabi Southern Football League (MSFL) – a role he served in from 1970 until his death in February this year, having been involved in the league since 1962.
He is credited with expanding the MSFL from a single 12-team division to a peak of 66 teams with more than 1,700 registered players. Today, the league comprises three divisions with 22 teams.
He served on triple committees with the London FA from 1970, earning the Bobby Moore Grassroots Heroes Award in 2004 and being named honorary president in 2022.
He supported the Maccabi leagues and mentored young volunteers. His legacy continues with the 2025 Maccabi GB Lifetime Achievement Award and his appointment, shortly before his passing, as honorary life president of Maccabi GB.
He also served for 20 years as Financial Representative for the then West Ham and Upton Park Synagogue.
Tributes have poured in from the footballing world. In a statement, London FA said: “David Wolff leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of service, leadership and compassion. He touched countless lives through football and will be remembered with respect and affection.”
Maccabi GB said: “David Wolff lived the values he believed in. He used football as a vehicle for inclusion, identity, friendship and continuity, and in doing so shaped not only leagues and competitions but lives.”
Ever thought of being an estate agent?
I did, a long time ago. As you may know, it’s a wonderful occupation and one that’s hard to give up.
So here I go again, sticking my neck out in a new shape and form.
I’m looking for active people aged between 30 and 60 to join me, working from home on a part-time, self-employed basis, at hours and on days of their choice. Full training given in helping people of senior years to downsize.
Please email me (rather than phone), and I’ll send you the full details.
phillip@phillipleigh.uk
I have two apartments that I urgently need to sell, and am looking for a purchaser who can proceed with a quick transaction
One is a beautiful ground-floor flat in the celebrated Bowls development in Chigwell, and the other is located in Parkmore, Woodford Green.
The Bowls property is particularly unique, offering direct access to both of its garages from a spacious south-west facing terrace, which also leads to a detached workspace office.
The Parkmore apartment is especially interesting as it is one of the very few three-bedroom ground-floor flats in the entire development. It is situated just across the road from the forest and Woodford Golf Course, and benefits from underfloor garaging and a terrace overlooking the forest. This represents a golden opportunity to restore an excellent apartment to its former condition and significantly increase its value.
