November/December 2024
VOL. LI No. 6
Liberal Judaism is a constituent of the World Union for Progressive Judaism
www.liberaljudaism.org
ljtoday
An update on the Path Paying tribute to Simon Benscher to Progressive Judaism
W
E ARE excited to share a new important document with you – a 16-page booklet outlining where we are in the process of bringing Liberal Judaism and The Movement for Reform Judaism together as one Progressive Judaism, and where we’re heading. We have spent much time and resource putting this together, as we know that many of our communities and members have important questions. It will also act as a historical document, which will be added to our movement archives and national libraries, and used for any future histories of this moment. The booklet – which can be read at the link below – describes all the wonderful things currently happening as our movements, staff teams and clergy bodies begin to work together. It then sets out the practical tasks around the merging of two organisations, the important discussions on the name of the new movement and the practical steps ahead. In a note of welcome, Dr Ed Kessler – the Chair of the Progressive Judaism Advisory Board – said: “The coming together of The Movement for Reform Judaism and Liberal Judaism into one single movement is the most significant development in British Judaism for 80 years. “Our voice will be heard not only in the UK, but all around the world.
“Our Judaism – one that is inclusive, musical, thoughtful, creative and egalitarian – will flourish and grow, helping more people in more places enjoy rich and vibrant Jewish lives.” Later on, in an article about the next steps in the process, Progressive Judaism Co-Leads Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Josh Levy write: “We hope that this booklet helps you to understand better the complexities taking place, and also allows us all to take stock and see just how much has already been achieved. “We believe wholeheartedly in all that one combined movement will make possible. Now we want to hear from you so that we can move forward together.”
Read it now at www.tinyurl.com/pathbooklet
Simon at the 2016 Liberal Judaism Biennial
SIMON Benscher – one of the most important figures in the modern history of Liberal Judaism – has died. A former Chair of the movement, his passion was building real connections with Liberal communities and members. He also played a vital role in merger conversations between Liberal Judaism and The Movement for Reform Judaism in the 2010s, and was an ardent advocate for the formation of one united Progressive Judaism for the UK today. Simon’s love of Liberal Judaism began when he joined Woodford Liberal Synagogue (now part of East London and Essex Liberal Synagogue) at the age of nine. Throughout his life, he served both the synagogue and the movement at all levels and was also very engaged with the World Union for Progressive Judaism. Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein - who served as President of Liberal Judaism when Simon was Chair - said: “Simon was a devoted supporter of, and worker for, Liberal Judaism. His behind the scenes discussions to bring Liberal and Reform Judaism together gave impetus to the unification project now underway.” • Read a full obituary in the next lj today.