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The Movement for Reform Judaism is a constituent member of the World Union for Progressive Judaism

www.reformjudaism.org.uk

www.pathtoprogressivejudaism.org.uk

Now let’s go and make history

ON Sunday 18 May 2025 the member communities of The Movement for Reform Judaism and Liberal Judaism will vote on whether to unite into one Progressive Judaism for the UK at two parallel EGMs.

If both votes are positive, this date will mark the culmination of 250 years of change and progress – dating back to the Haskalah (Jewish Enlightenment) of the mid-1770s – and result in a defining moment in the history of British Jewry.

It will also herald the start of a new future with a new movement that will represent one third of synagogue affiliated Jews; and we believe the majority of those yet to affiliate. It will give us a louder voice, a greater presence and, crucially, the opportunity to further grow our communities.

Rabbi Dr Jackie Tabick grew up in the Reform movement – at what was then SWESRS – and has served it all her life. This year she celebrates 50 years since her history-making ordination, when she became Britain’s first female rabbi.

Rabbi Jackie is passionate about the opportunities the formation of one Progressive Judaism will bring.

She says: “We want to bring the love of Judaism into people’s homes and into people’s hearts. We want to increase knowledge and practice, and the enjoyment of being Jewish, down through the coming generations.

“By coming together, I know we can achieve all of this.”

Many readers will know Rabbi Mark Goldsmith as the Senior Rabbi of Edgware and Hendon Reform Synagogue. But he started his career with the Liberal congregations in Finchley and Woodford.

Rabbi Mark is steeped in both Liberal and Reform tradition, with family roots going back 200 years. He says that unlike the previous merger attempts of 1942 and 1983, we are in the right place in 2025 to make a long-held dream a reality.

He writes: “Both movements now have an established route to equilineality, enabling children of one Jewish parent, irrespective of gender, to have recognised Jewish status. Both are fully egalitarian and built by people of all sexualities and genders. Both are fully able to integrate and build the Jewish lives of mixed faith couples and families.

“In regard to practice, Reform Judaism has become more flexible in its interpretation and Liberal Judaism more enthusiastic in its response to tradition. Above all, we celebrate the diversity of our synagogues and communities.

“That is why I believe it is now time to be one agudah (brotherhood and sisterhood) of Progressive Judaism.”

There is also huge support among lay leaders and congregants. David Kirk of Alyth sums up that feeling, when he tells us: “Together we will be more powerful and have a louder voice. Most importantly, those wanting to join us will have a wider choice – all under the umbrella of being Progressive.”

Becoming one larger body will also bring more opportunities – and funding –for our youth and young adult work.

While RSY-Netzer and LJY-Netzer will remain distinct, they are already collaborating to offer enhanced experiences to young Progressive Jews – including a summer Israel experience and a new gap year programme.

Summing up the history that can be made, Reform Judaism Chair Paul Langsford said: “This is the moment for Progressive Judaism to thrive and flourish. As one movement, we will help more people in more places enjoy rich and vibrant Jewish experiences.”

This is a special Reform version of the Liberal Judaism magazine lj today to mark a historic moment in the history of both movements. Should the EGM votes be positive, and one Progressive Judaism formed, a new joint magazine will be created.

The clergy of Progressive Judaism, who will have a key role in shaping the new movement

Our students need us to be united

Rabbi Leah Jordan outlines a Progressive

Jewish vision for University Chaplaincy

HAVING worked as a Chaplain for university students up and down Britain for more than a decade, I often get asked – are you ‘pro’ the merger between Reform and Liberal Judaism? I always answer with a confident ‘yes’.

If there is one thing I am certain of, it is that we will be much stronger together and better able to meet the needs of our students on campus if we unite as one Progressive movement.

The reason is twofold: in the past, we have sometimes fought each other over scarce resources, when we are much better off creating vision and content together; and we are being completely out-resourced by Orthodox offerings when we could be building up our own Progressive Chaplaincy together.

When the graduates of our youth movements (RSY-Netzer and LJY-Netzer)

and young members of our synagogues arrive on campus, they enter a sea of largely non-Jewish peers. Of the Jewish students who are there, according to a Union of Jewish Students (UJS) survey, almost 40% identify as Modern Orthodox. Our students are therefore already a minority within a minority.

The good news is that almost a quarter of Jewish students, 24%, do identify as Reform or Liberal with another 15% as ‘Just Jewish’ and more likely to feel at home with our values and in our spaces.

When Liberal and Reform Judaism don’t cooperate, don’t share databases and resources and relationships, we compete for a quarter of the student body who are much better served by a united, vibrant, joyful Progressive Jewish identity.

Which brings us to the other reality: University Jewish Chaplaincy, Aish and Chabad are all incredibly well-resourced Orthodox student provisions, and they are much more visible and active on campus than we are at this time.

We have already been told by major donors and stakeholders that the prospect of giving to a future Progressive Jewish Chaplaincy, which represents a substantial number of Jewish students, is a much more enticing prospect than supporting two smaller movements.

And what might this more wellresourced, united Progressive Jewish Chaplaincy look like?

Well, the Union of Jewish Students, the umbrella body which represents Jewish students throughout the UK, has already slowly itself become more pluralist and more Progressive, thanks to our efforts over the years, and this will only continue and intensify. The UJS’ current elected President, Sami Berkoff, is a graduate herself of RSY. Working with her, we have further changed the norms on campuses – so that Progressive Jewish students are now appreciated and seen as an integral part of university Jewish life.

This means prayer spaces for Progressive and egalitarian prayer on every campus that wants it, truly crosscommunal events and multi-perspective offerings on Israel education, amongst other structural changes.

Our students don’t experience life on campus so much as Liberal or Reform Jews but as Progressive Jewish students – who are looking for non-Orthodox Jewish spaces and a more pluralist and progressive approach on the issues that matter to them.

• Rabbi Leah Jordan is Chaplain for Progressive Jewish Students

The creation of Progressive Judaism is long overdue

Rabbi Baroness

Julia Neuberger on why becoming one will bring a new vibrancy to our Jewish voice

I AM a passionate believer in the need to unite our two Progressive Jewish movements. Indeed, I have form. I grew up Reform (at West London Synagogue, where my father was a warden and taught at religion school). I discovered Liberal Judaism at the South London Liberal Synagogue (SLLS) as a Student Rabbi. I then served SLLS as Rabbi from 1977 to 1989. Later, I returned to West London as their Senior Rabbi. Back in the 1980s, when I was chairing the Liberal Rabbinic Conference, we made a valiant attempt to merge, or at least shape a partnership between, Reform and Liberal Judaism.

It did not succeed, but the reasons were not of principle. They were to do with personalities, position and asking power.

Some of those concerns still apply, but far fewer, and to far less an extent. The differences between the two movements are now vanishingly small, more of style than substance.

Today both movements recognise – in very slightly different ways – patrilineal Jews. Both welcome LBGTQI+ Jews. Both support Leo Baeck College. Both favour decorum. Attitudes to personal practice remain much the same… it’s personal.

Conversion is similar in both movements, and is growing, something a combined movement could and should really emphasise and foster.

If you asked anyone inside, or outside, our movements they would be hard pushed to find a difference. In fact, public perception is that we are the same.

There are three more important reasons to come together.

Firstly, there is already considerable difference in style between congregations within the current movements.

Those differences will be embraced and celebrated within a new Progressive Judaism.

Secondly, if we look at the United States, home of the largest Progressive movement worldwide, both its Union for Reform Judaism and Central Conference of American Rabbis are happily partners to both UK Liberal and Reform Judaism. American rabbis are equally mystified by what our differences are! We need that American partnership given that we want to be, as they are, the most substantial Jewish voice on a national platform.

Finally, clergy train together and move freely between movements – I started Reform, then served a Liberal community, then served Reform, and am happy in both. We need a vibrant, welcoming and energetic style of leadership which includes us all.

So I am a huge fan of the proposed merger. It’s long overdue. It will emphasise a permissive approach, allowing variation and difference in style to flourish, and bring a new vibrancy to the Progressive, prophetic Jewish voice.

Shape Israel’s tomorrow - your voice matters

By Rabbi Jordan Helfman (Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue), Rabbi Deborah Blausten (Finchley Reform Synagogue), Rabbi Lea Mühlstein (The Ark Synagogue) and Rebecca Singerman-Knight (Co-Chair, Kingston Liberal Synagogue)

DO you care about Israel and want to be able to do something tangible to advocate for our values? Are you concerned with the current situation in the country and who is in charge? Have you felt powerless or hopeless?

As a Jew living in the UK, you are eligible to vote in the elections for the World Zionist Congress. This is the single biggest opportunity for UK Jews to influence the future of Israel and the Jewish people for the better.

The World Zionist Congress, often called the Parliament of the Jewish People, is an institution central to the Jewish people’s aspirations and identity. It was created by Theodor Herzl in 1897 – long before the establishment of the State of Israel – as a forum where all Jews could express their visions.

Today, it represents a platform for Diaspora Jews, including our Progressive Jewish communities, to engage in Israel’s actions and values. Through the World Zionist Congress, Progressive voices aim to influence Israeli policy and budget decisions – advocating for democracy, pluralism, human rights and a pathway to peace with Palestinians.

Right now, ultra-Orthodox and ultranationalist Jews are working hard to shape an Israel where our values, and our people, are not welcome.

It is therefore vital that Progressive Jews support slates in the 2025 World Zionist Congress election representing our principles. In the UK, the Liberal, Reform and Masorti movements are standing on a joint slate called Our Israel

The World Zionist Congress is an important, institutional way for Progressive voices to have a real and impactful say in how Israel spends its money and treats its people. A vote for the Our Israel slate is a vote for:

• Peace

• Pluralism

• LGBTQI+ rights

• Women’s rights

• Returning our hostages

• Strengthening Progressive communities

We are at a turning point in Jewish history. The voices and activism of Progressive Jews in the Diaspora has never been more crucial.

We are up against motivated and disciplined opponents whose vision for the future of Israel is diametrically opposed to ours.

Right-wing, religious fundamentalists are organising against us with plans to roll back all the issues we care about: chipping away at Israel’s democracy; rolling back gains for LGBTQI+ rights, gender equity and religious pluralism; stripping our Israeli Progressive clergy and communities of their rights, funding and infrastructure; ensuring our converts and children are not welcome in the Jewish state; and blocking any hope of Palestinian self-determination and safety.

They want to write the next chapter of Jewish history and write us out of it – our values of pursuing justice demand that we cannot allow this to happen.

Voting will take place between 8 - 12 June 2025. However, to be able to vote you need to register before 13 May at uk.eventmagix.com

In order to register to vote, you must be Jewish, over 18 (on 30 June 2025) and a permanent resident of the UK. You also need to accept the Jerusalem Program –the official platform of the World Zionist Organisation.

To ensure security, all those registering are asked to upload a photograph of their ID (passport or driver’s licence) and pay a token £1 registration fee.

Progressive Judaism is growing all around the world, but sadly our representation often lags behind. These World Zionist Congress elections are a rare chance to correct this imbalance.

Registering and casting your vote for Our Israel is a step towards pluralism, progress and ensuring that Zionism remains forward-thinking and inclusive.

Voting in the World Zionist Congress elections lets us take our values from the synagogue and the street to the Parliament of the Jewish People

The World Zionist Congress in action

Progressive Jews in Israel need support

ON 6 October 2023, Sagi Golan was a young man with everything to look forward to – especially his upcoming wedding in one week to the love of his life, another young man, Omer Ohana (pictured together on the right).

When Hamas attacked on 7 October, Sagi sprang into duty as an IDF reservist. He didn’t wait for a command, but just grabbed his gear and kissed Omer goodbye. He ran into fire to successfully rescue dozens of residents of Kibbutz Be’eri – one of the hardest hit communities of the terror attacks.

Tragically Sagi did not make it home for his wedding. He fell in the line of duty.

Sagi was revered as a hero… until the moment his beloved fiancé tried to mourn him in traditional Jewish rituals.

At this time, IDF policy was under control of the ultra-Orthodox rabbinate. It granted rights and benefits to the widows and widowers of soldiers fallen in the line of duty – but excluded same-sex couples.

At Sagi’s shiva service, his bereaved partner was told he was not allowed to tear his garment; a palpable symbol of mourning observed by immediate family. With the sacrifices soldiers were making after 7 October, the public had finally had enough!

Our votes have a real influence

By Rabbi Lea Mühlstein

“DO you want to be a delegate to the World Zionist Congress?”

When I was asked this question in 2005, I had heard of Herzl’s famous Congress but wasn’t aware that it was something that had continued after the founding of the State of Israel.

I reflected on the fact that the work of the first visionaries of modern Zionism was still incomplete – and was reminded of Rabbi Tarfon’s famous teaching in Pirkei Avot: “It is not your duty to finish the work, but neither are you at liberty to neglect it.”

And so, I took a leap of faith and agreed to attend the 35th World Zionist Congress. I was immediately inspired by the sense that this was a direct way of how I could help to fight for the broader acceptance of Progressive Jews worldwide, advocate for our values and secure essential funding for both our movement in Israel and the World Union for Progressive Judaism.

In the years since my first Congress, I have personally seen many achievements secured to make us proud. These include: the establishment of an egalitarian prayer section at the Western Wall and other advances for religious pluralism; and funding to support the work of the Israeli Reform movement and its Religious Action Center (IRAC), which has secured historic wins for LGBTQI+ rights in Israel, challenged gender discrimination and fought racism.

Our representatives on the board of Keren Kayemeth Leyisrael (the Jewish National Fund) have blocked Jewish developments on Bedouin land, stopped land purchases across the Green Line and continue to monitor closely that the funds of the Zionist movement are not used to further settlements in the West Bank.

Thanks to the funding from the World Zionist Organisation, our movement is at the centre of advocating for the return of the hostages and is making a tremendous contribution to rebuilding the communities in the Gaza envelope.

Many Jews in the UK – like me 20 years ago – may not know that they have a vote to determine the British delegation to what will be the 39th World Zionist Congress. But you do.

So please listen to Rabbi Tarfon and make sure you take part.

After years of the Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism’s Religious Action Center leading the fight, LGBTQI+ advocates achieved a win that November when Omer and others brought their struggle to the Knesset.

The law was amended to grant widow or widower status to partners and spouses of any gender who lost their loved one in combat.

Omer said: “Time doesn’t really pass, but now there is a feeling of meaningfulness after what happened in the Knesset. There’s also a feeling of justice, which was one of the strongest things that led Sagi when he was alive.”

It was previous votes in World Zionist Congress elections – and the influence and funding received due to them – that allowed us to fight for Omer’s rights. But there is still a long way to go.

On that same terrible day, 7 October 2023, the Kapshiter family were on a road trip from Ashkelon to their home in Be’er Sheva. On the way, they were ambushed by Hamas terrorists and murdered together – father Yania, mother Dina and their young children, Aline and Eitan.

When it came time for their grieving families to begin the mourning process, the ultra-Orthodox monopolised rabbinate ruled that since Yania was not born to a Jewish mother, he was not permitted to be buried in his hometown cemetery alongside his wife and children.

Instead of separating him from his beloved family, beside whom he had lived and died, his parents’ trauma was compounded by making the difficult decision to bury the whole family outside the cemetery fence, in an area that is traditionally viewed with less sanctity. Your vote will help support the work to change the rules around burial and status and reflect a pluralistic and inclusive Israel that grants dignity to all. Please register and take action today.

DeafShul – opening doors to inclusive Jewish life

A NEW initiative, DeafShul, has launched with the mission to ensure that D/Deaf Jews can fully participate in every aspect of Jewish life.

DeafShul aims to break down barriers and provide equal access to religious, educational and community experiences.

Friday Night services are held monthly. The first two took place at Maidenhead Synagogue (led by Rabbi René Pfertzel, pictured) and Finchley Progressive Synagogue (led by Rabbi Rebecca Birk).

The gatherings were an engaging and inclusive experience, allowing accessible worship and community connection.

The success of the events was also down to Vicki Ashmore, whose expert interpretation made sure no one missed a word, prayer, or moment of reflection, and host Pete Simms, who delivered a truly enjoyable experience for everyone.

Liberal Judaism Officer Owen Power said: “Rabbi René conducted our service in his usual relaxed, friendly and warm style. And Vicki, ever the perfectionist, did a great job at interpreting with Pete keeping us cool, calm and collected. DeafShul is breaking barriers and ensuring that every Jew, regardless of hearing ability, can engage fully in tradition, prayer and community.”

With over 18 million adults in the UK experiencing deafness, hearing loss, or tinnitus, and with hearing loss affecting the majority of older adults, inclusion is more important than ever. Despite good intentions, the access needs of D/Deaf individuals have not always been met.

Owen added: “DeafShul’s development will occur in three stages, initially with this offering of interpreters and live captions for services via Zoom. Using simple technology, Deaf individuals can attend services, accessing real-time translations through an interpreter on a linked device. This model also fosters the growth of an online Jewish community, bringing attendees together in a new and inclusive way.”

For more information, please contact DeafShul at deaf.shul@gmail.com

Education Hub Season 2

THE new season of the Progressive Judaism Education Hub has just begun and is exploring the Principles of Progressive Judaism.

Over the next three months, some of the UK’s most senior rabbis and educators will be looking at our Progressive beliefs, values and ideologies – examining how they originated, their development through history and where we stand today.

Whether you are new to Jewish studies, seeking to deepen your understanding or just interested in finding out more about the 250 year history of Progressive Judaism, this series will illuminate the shared ideals and transformative journeys that have shaped our Judaism.

Sessions take place on Wednesday nights at 7pm via Zoom (except the third, which is on a Monday). They are free and open to all – and you can take part in as few or as many as you wish.

The full list of dates, topics and educators can be found on the back page. Season 1 of the Education Hub covered the lives and legacies of 10 of the Pioneers of Progressive Judaism and can be watched back on www.youtube.com/ @ProgressiveJudaismUK

• REGISTER FOR THE EDUCATION HUB: www.tinyurl.com/EducationHub2025s2 (Please note: As this is a new season and topic, previous participants will still need to register)

Our national B’nei Mitzvah programme

THE Kivunim National B’nei Mitzvah programme for 2025-27 is now open to all young people from small and mediumsized Liberal and Reform communities.

This friendly and supportive programme brings young Progressive Jews from school years 7 and 8 together to build strong year group cohorts and add fun, friendship and lifelong memories to their Bar/Bat/B’nei Mitzvah preparations.

There will be challenges and activities to complete, and all those who complete the programme will celebrate with a never to be forgotten theme park trip.

The two-year programme has six main areas of focus explored over residential weekends in November and April:

Jewish Identity (year 7)

Tikkun Olam (year 7)

Community (ongoing)

Jewish Ritual (ongoing)

Informed decision making (Year 8)

My life as a Jewish adult (Year 8)

The weekends also include climbing, kayaking and archery, as well as Shabbat celebrations. Above all, it’s about making new friends to share the experience with.

This opportunity is open to all members of participating communities. For details, please visit www.reformjudaism.org.uk

Mitzvah Day Award winners

THE incredible impact made by our Reform and Liberal communities and members on Mitzvah Day, and all year round, was celebrated at the annual Mitzvah Day Awards.

Debbie Drapkin, Membership Engagement Lead for Edgware and Hendon Reform Synagogue (EHRS) and a member of The Ark Synagogue, was presented with a Mitzvah Mensch Award. Debbie – who has also worked for Mitzvah Day – was praised for developing worthwhile projects, building new interfaith relationships and bringing the whole EHRS community on board. The ceremony took place on the same day as her retirement.

Debbie said: “Receiving this award really means everything to me –particularly as today is the day I leave the working world and start my life in the volunteering world.”

Southgate Progressive Synagogue were presented with the Outstanding British Mitzvah Day prize, after holding a month of activities with 140 charitable good deeds taking place.

The synagogue’s Mitzvah Day coordinator Sarah Bendredj said: “Mitzvah Day galvanised our whole community to come together and get involved in social action, from those aged three to 93! To win this award, and have our projects celebrated in this way, makes me very proud.”

The Mitzvah Day Awards ceremony took place at South Hampstead United Synagogue and was hosted by the charity’s Chair Laura Marks CBE, a member of Alyth. Rather than paying for tickets, attendees were asked to bring food items to be donated to New Horizon Youth Centre, which supports young Londoners experiencing homelessness.

Winners and nominees came from many different religions, backgrounds, ages and regions – all united by their social action work to help some of society’s most vulnerable people.

Worcestershire Interfaith Forum –which includes members of Birmingham Progressive Synagogue – shared the Outstanding Interfaith Partnership prize with Hendon School.

The Forum was recognised for the 10 years that its team of 40+ Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Sikh, Jain and Baha’i volunteers working together to support patients and staff at the local hospital.

The Lincoln Hygiene Bank – an interfaith initiative run by the Centre for Reconciliation and with which Lincolnshire Jewish Community are involved – won the Year-Round Award.

The Centre was rewarded for its work collecting and distributing personal hygiene and household cleaning products each week to those struggling financially. The initiative launched last year.

Rachael Phillips, Chair of Lincolnshire Jewish Community, said: “We are proud to work with Lincoln Hygiene Bank and The Centre for Reconciliation. By working together across faiths, we can create a better community and help others.”

All those nominated for awards were also celebrated on the evening, including North West Surrey Synagogue, Radlett Reform Synagogue, Beth Shalom Reform Synagogue Cheder, Bromley Reform Synagogue OZ Group, The Liberal Jewish Synagogue Religion School and Brighton & Hove Interfaith Contact Group.

• Pictures by Yakir Zur.

Mitzvah Mensch Debbie Drapkin (centre) with MD Trustees Laura Marks and Judy Mizrahi

The special moment when Southgate Progressive Synagogue won their award

An insight into Yiddish theatre

By Karen Pollak

MOSAIC Jewish Community’s Israel Society put on a captivating evening featuring Oshra Schwartz, a leading light of the Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism, who showed her acclaimed film, The Komediant, about the heritage of Yiddish theatre in America.

The film was in the form of a documentary about famous Yiddish actors Pesach Burstein, his wife Lottie Lux and their two children, Susan and Michael. They became known as the Four Bursteins.

The film explains how the authentic Yiddish theatre was born out of poverty and the community’s desire for education and entertainment. It performed anything from high drama and operettas to lowly comedies.

Yiddish theatre became so popular that, at one point, there were five different ones on Second Avenue in New York alone.

The Bursteins also performed in the Catskills, which at the time was as big a deal as playing Las Vegas. Auditions were brutal as the shows were so popular and there was great demand for the actors to get work and have membership of the Union. The Union of Hebrew Actors was one of the first unions of its kind.

Oshra, who had previously taught theatre in Israel, talked to us about trying to get the film off the ground. That wasn’t an easy task but, having watched it, I can assure you that it was well worth it. It gave us an amazing insight into the dynamics of a working theatrical family.

Oshra then went on to speak about the development of the Reform movement in Israel for which she is working, and of how it is growing and now numbers some 55 communities.

She also spoke of Kibbutz Re’im, whose people are in need of help after the Hamas terrorist attacks of 7 October 2023. It is being supported by Mosaic Jewish Community.

Cardiff Reform welcomes Rabbi Martina Loreggian

CARDIFF Reform Synagogue has appointed Rabbi Martina Loreggian (pictured) as their new permanent parttime minister.

Rabbi Martina will begin with monthly visits to Cardiff to lead services, provide pastoral care, support adult education and guide the journey of converts.

Rabbi Martina is no stranger to the Cardiff community, having spent her final year of rabbinic training with the synagogue. Reflecting on her experience, she said: “Cardiff Reform Synagogue is a thriving and welcoming community. When they asked if I wanted to become their rabbi, I didn’t hesitate.”

She added: “Cardiff Reform is wellorganised and has a high level of commitment from its members. I’m thrilled to start working closely with our lay leaders and wardens to serve the best interests of the congregation and contribute to the wider community.”

Originally from Milan, last year Rabbi Martina became the first Italian woman to be ordained as a rabbi. She also serves Norwich Liberal Jewish Community.

Community news round-up

• TO mark International Women’s Day, Newcastle University’s Jewish Society came to Newcastle Reform Synagogue for a meaningful and hands-on event.

The day featured a challah bake-in and an inspiring talk from Rabbi Sybil Sheridan, who explored the historical and modern role of women in Judaism.

• NORTH West Surrey Synagogue unveiled a Weybridge Society Blue Plaque in memory of Imre Horvath, one of the synagogue’s founding members.

The celebratory event was attended by Imre’s family, including his daughter Kitty Lyons, who unveiled the plaque along with her husband Roger, their children and grandchildren. Kitty said: “We got a truly wonderful welcome. The memory of the morning will stay with me forever.”

• A BAR MITZVAH boy at Brentwood and Shenfield Reform Synagogue used a 3D printer to create a yad for his special day.

William Solomons (pictured) designed and fashioned the ritual pointer, which he has now donated as a special gift to the community.

Rabbi David Hulbert said: “Young William decided to become a 21st century Bezalel – the skilled craftsman we heard about in his parasha – and has left a positive legacy for some time to come.”

• THANET and District Reform Synagogue Cheder guided their young students on an educational journey through the various stages of the Jewish lifecycle. Each session was carefully crafted to provide an in-depth understanding of the rituals, with the children studying the traditions and taking part in mock ceremonies.

RABBI Kath Vardi began her new role with Menorah Synagogue by leading a beautiful and thoughtful Pesach Seder involving all generations.

Among the guests were Monica Harding MP and the Mayor and Mayoress of Elmbridge, Councillor Neil Houston and Veronica Houston. They are pictured above with Philip Goldenberg of NWSS.

• BRIGHTON & Hove Reform Synagogue held its annual Erev Yom HaShoah service with readings from Megillat HaShoah. Rabbi Dr Andrea Zanardo said: “It is always very moving to see teenagers taking an active part in the ceremony.”

Alyth’s weekend of community

THE Alyth community came together for the synagogue’s much-anticipated Weekend Away, a three-day retreat that mixed learning, spirituality and music in the Hertfordshire countryside.

Around 200 members took part – from newborns to octogenarians – with the event reflecting the true meaning of community spirit.

One memorable moment came in the middle of the Shabbat Morning Service, which was paused to witness the partial solar eclipse. Thanks to a thoughtful attendee who had brought eclipse glasses, everyone could enjoy the aweinspiring celestial event.

Meeting the Ambassador

RABBI Adrian Schell, the spiritual leader of Wimbledon Synagogue, was invited to a meeting with German Ambassador Miguel Berger at the country’s Embassy in London (pictured).

Rabbi Adrian, who was born in Frankfurt, said: “It was a pleasure to meet the Ambassador and to share insights into the life of our community.

“I deeply appreciated his interest in the work we’re doing at Wimbledon Synagogue and across the wider Progressive movement(s).”

The Ambassador echoed these sentiments on X, praising the synagogue’s “countless activities” and Rabbi Adrian’s leadership.

There was something for everyone throughout the weekend.

A diverse programme included Book Club, insightful sessions with visiting Rabbi Galit Cohen-Kedem, and a campstyle service. The Havdalah service, accompanied by an ensemble of guitars and a bassoon, added a unique musical touch, while a Living Torah session and lively pub quiz kept everyone engaged.

For some, the karaoke on Friday night proved impossible to stop, while others enjoyed a seven-year-old teaching an older participant how to crochet during Crafternoon. Youth activities ranged from an escape room to musical fun.

Alyth’s commitment is to put community at the heart of everything, whether in prayer, celebration, learning or moments of comfort.

The feedback from everyone at the Weekend Away reflected this goal. One participant said: “I feel as though I’ve been on a highly successful week’s holiday. It provided all it promised and more, with enriching conversations and moments of reflection.”

Another shared: “The programme was inclusive, musical and spiritual, filled with opportunities to meet new people.”

Ex-Deputy PM shows support

OLIVER Dowden, MP for Hertsmere and former Deputy Prime Minister, visited the Memory Café at Radlett Reform Synagogue.

The Memory Café – which alternates venues between the shul and a local church – is a social gathering for those experiencing memory loss and their loved ones.

The MP shared his personal anecdotes about growing up in the area, adding: “I have a deep connection to the community here.

The dedication of the volunteers who make the Memory Café a beacon of support and togetherness meant it is a very special place.”

Survivor stories

TO commemorate Yom HaShoah, Finchley Reform Synagogue (FRS) shared video accounts from Holocaust survivors who have spoken at the synagogue. It was part of a new project of hearing testimony together in the community.

Those filming videos included Eva Clarke, Gerald Granston BEM, Mala Tribich MBE and Peter Lantos BEM.

Gerald (pictured) told his remarkable story of survival to students at FRS in 2023, when he urged them to continue to stand up against prejudice.

He said: “I am so grateful to have found freedom and sanctuary in the UK. If the young people of today don’t fight hatred, then we could see the same thing happening again… and that scares me.”

Lord Mayor at Liverpool

RICHARD Kemp CBE, made history as the first Lord Mayor of Liverpool to attend Shabbat at Liverpool Reform Synagogue.

Rabbi Warren Elf, who led the service, said: ”I wanted to reflect the importance of learning about distinctions and commonalities not only within the Jewish community, but among the diverse faiths that make up Liverpool’s cultural fabric.”

One of many highlights saw the Lord Mayor – accompanied by his wife Erica – unveil a striking mosaic titled ‘Being Young, Jewish & Liverpool’, created by members of the Jewish Youth Club.

The moment was made more special with the participation of Eitan Cohen Daniels, Anna Cohen and Lemmy Ross –young leaders in the Reform community.

Faiths unite for hope at Ramadan Iftars

IN a display of unity and interfaith connection, hundreds of Jews, Muslims and Christians – along with people of all faiths and none – gathered for Iftars held in Progressive synagogues.

Welcoming refugees was the focus of Harrow’s first ever joint Jewish-Muslim Iftar. Hosted by Kol Chai: Hatch End Reform Jewish Community, Muslim guests came to break their Ramadan fast from Harrow Central Mosque, Shia Ithna’ashari Community of Middlesex and the Afghan Association of London.

They were joined by Christian visitors representing Westminster Catholic Diocese, as well as a range of religious and civic leaders from Harrow Interfaith, Pinner Faith Forum and Harrow Metropolitan Police.

Social action was at the very heart of the evening, with many of those present being Muslim refugees who found shelter and support in the area – some of whom have lived in the UK for decades and others who arrived recently.

Many of the Afghan refugee families present were supported after their arrival by a multi-faith Action Team led by a Kol Chai member.

Tables were mixed to bring together people of different religions and generations, fostering connections over a three-course vegetarian Iftar meal.

Kol Chai were partnered for the event by Nomad – a refugee charity that supports young people and families – and North London Citizens, which unites and organises local communities to overcome injustice and win change on key issues.

Nomad has been working with Kol Chai on a migrant cookbook that shares the stories of migrants through food, and also played a key role in preparing decorations and engagement questions for the day.

A range of speakers, from all faiths, at the event helped to enrich the conversations taking place, including by providing discussion starters.

Rabbi Naomi Goldman opened the evening by reflecting on her own experiences as the mother of the only Jewish family in a predominantly Muslim primary school.

She told attendees: “My journey has been shaped by the wonderful conversations I had with mums at the school gate – about fasting practices and the similarities between keeping kosher and keeping halal – and the huge warmth and generosity we experienced from other families, many of whom had been displaced from Syria, Kosovo, Somalia and elsewhere.

“Of course, what we had in common was a desire to do the best for our children and the knowledge that what we share is far greater than what might keep us apart. In that spirit, tonight we come together not just to share a meal but to share our stories, our hopes and our commitment to building a more just and compassionate world.”

Karim Shirin from the Afghan Association said afterwards: “This Iftar was community cohesion at its height, as we all came together as one. Our common purpose is our humanity.”

The 12th annual Iftar at Alyth saw 200 people join together for study, prayer and the traditional fast-breaking meal, with the evening covered by BBC News.

Rabbis Hannah Kingston and Elliott Karstadt hosted thought-provoking study sessions co-led by Jewish, Muslim and Christian teachers. The event then took on a spiritual tone as Imam Mehmed Stublla led the call to prayer, marking the moment when the fast is broken.

After prayer, guests enjoyed a feast of falafel, breads, hummus and fresh fruit.

Rabbi Hannah said: “When the world is plagued by so much pain, it feels hard to find hope. But an evening spent together, breaking bread and seeing the humanity in each other, shows that hope is out there. We just have to find ways to find it.”

Guests at the Iftar included Progressive Judaism Co-Lead Rabbi Josh Levy, Imam Sultan Ahmed, Reverend Robin Sims-Williams, Reverend Dr Ayla Lepine, British Muslim journalist Remona Aly and Sarah Sackman MP.

Finchley Progressive Synagogue, Finchley Reform Synagogue and Hendon School took part in a joint showcase event followed by a community Iftar. Speakers shared ongoing social action projects taking place in Barnet, including details of the Home From Home Club – a weekly after-school programme for asylumseeking children and their families.

Edgware & Hendon Reform Synagogue (EHRS) proudly hosted their second interfaith Iftar, partnering once more with the Faiths Forum for London.

A vegan meal – thoughtfully prepared by synagogue volunteers – set the tone for a special night of meaningful dialogue and connection.

Imam Monawar Hussein, Chaplain at Eton College and Founder of the Oxford Foundation, offered an inspiring explanation of Ramadan and its spiritual significance. Guests also heard from Rabbi Debbie Young-Somers and Muslim community Organiser Julie Siddiqi MBE on the theme of hope.

Rabbi Debbie said: “Hope, like seeds, starts out in small packages. I love this idea, because hope needs nurturing to flourish and grow, but sometimes it can take root in the most unexpected places.”

Faith and civic leaders, including Rabbis Naomi Goldman and Michael Hilton, at the by Kol Chai: Hatch End Reform Jewish Community Iftar

RSY-Netzer is the growing, dynamic youth movement of Reform Judaism. We create inclusive and accessible spaces that immerse young people in Progressive Jewish values

Joint RSY/LJY Shnat Netzer gap year programme

RSY-Netzer and the Liberal youth movement LJY-Netzer are pleased to launch Shnat Netzer 2025-26, a joint sixmonth gap year programme.

Participants will come together in South Africa and Israel, joining with different branches of Netzer Olami (the worldwide Progressive Jewish Youth Movement), to explore their Jewish identity as part of an ideological, modern, inclusive and dynamic community. We have created an exciting and enriching programme full of chinuch (education), volunteer work and kef (fun) – all while bonding as a group with peers from around the globe.

March of the Living

ON Yom HaShoah, we commemorated the Holocaust, alongside thousands of others, by participating in the March of the Living in Poland.

We had the opportunity to visit important sites like the Warsaw Ghetto, Majdanek, and Auschwitz-Birkenau.

We were privileged to listen to the testimonies of Holocaust survivors, speaking to them and learning about their experiences firsthand.

The programme has three components.

The first month will be spent in South Africa, with the Netzer branch there, experiencing the culture, leading on Netzer summer events, learning about the history, and exploring new places.

Participants will get the chance to feel part of a wider, international Progressive Jewish community, making connections with another Netzer branch, including meeting South Africans who are likely to join the Israel component.

The next month is at Kibbutz Lotan, a Reform Kibbutz in the south of Israel, in which participants will volunteer at the Lotan Ecological Centre, working on the centre’s environmental projects and having sessions to deepen their understanding of Judaism, Kibbutz life and sustainability. They will also have the opportunity to look after the Kibbutz children, a really special way to integrate into the community and develop their leadership skills.

We also heard accounts of the heroism and resistance of others throughout the trip.

How do we memorialise them, and how do we process the tragedy, grief and horror of the Shoah?

A line from Merrit Malloy’s poem Epitaph resonates: “When all that’s left of me is love, give me away”.

We carry their values with us in our lives today – by pursuing justice, carrying out tikkun olam (repair of the world) and doing g’milut chasadim (acts of loving-kindness).

The remaining three months of the programme will be in Haifa, living independently in communal apartments, experiencing day-to-day life in Haifa while engaging in meaningful volunteering with the range of communities in the area, including Palestinian Citizens of Israel, Druze, Olim (immigrants) and Israelis. Volunteer opportunities include working in education, community support, or grassroots social justice initiatives.

There will also be sessions from Netzer and organisations such as Seeds of Peace and the Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC), offering diverse perspectives on activism and leadership. These sessions will explore the Jewish roots of social justice, connecting hands-on volunteering to broader values of tikkun olam (repairing the world).

We are keen to stress that we do not want finances to be a barrier to anyone joining our Shnat Programme. There is lots of support available to help with this, including funding from the UJIA. This really is open to everyone.

Shnat Netzer is a hugely exciting opportunity for RSY and LJY members to meet each other, get closer and learn about the similarities and differences between our two youth movements. It has been a collaboration for a number of years, and is an incredible opportunity for us to work closely together.

Contact RSY-Netzer: Josh Freedman (josh.freedman@rsy-netzer.org.uk), Katie Freedman (katie.freedman@rsy-netzer.org.uk) and Carrie Lee (carrie.lee@rsy-netzer.org.uk) or visit our website www.rsy-netzer.org.uk

RJ Today May/Jun 2025