May/June 2018 VOL. XL No. 3
Liberal Judaism is a constituent of the World Union for Progressive Judaism
www.liberaljudaism.org
ljtoday
An absolutely fabulous project Exclusive: Biennial
J
OANNA LUMLEY Project manager and the Mayor Shaan Knan said: of Camden “With our subjects were among the coming from 27 dignitaries at the countries, the stories launch of Liberal told are diverse – but Judaism’s latest all have the common cutting edge project: thread of people Rainbow Pilgrims. coming to the UK in Opening during the hope of building a LGBT History Month, life in which they can Rainbow Pilgrims be their authentic explores the ‘hidden self, without hiding story’ of LGBTQI+ and denying their migrants, refugees sexual orientation or TV star Joanna Lumley with Shaan Knan and travellers in gender identity.” Britain through The Rainbow images, videos and audio recordings. It Pilgrims pop-up is currently on tour captures the experiences of more than 40 around the country and will show at LGBTQI+ immigrants, refugees, asylum Brighton & Hove Progressive Synagogue seekers and members of the Gypsy, in May, before a grand finale at Liberal Roma and Traveller (GRT) community of Judaism’s Biennial Weekend in June. different faiths and none. The online exhibition can be accessed via The series of events included a www.rainbowpilgrims.com symposium and panel discussion at Rainbow Pilgrims: The Rites and Bucks New University with Rabbi Aaron Passages of LGBTQI+ Migrants in Britain Goldstein, a VIP reception at the Wiener is generously supported by the National Library and the premiere of the popLottery through the Heritage Lottery up exhibition, hosted by the Migration Fund. For more details, please contact Museum at The Workshop. Shaan on s.knan@liberaljudaism.org
programme in full
LIBERAL JUDAISM is proud to reveal the full programme for the Biennial Weekend - our movement’s flagship event of 2018. You can find it on the centre pages of this issue of lj today. Gillian Merron (pictured), the chief executive of the Board of Deputies, has been added to the line-up of keynote speakers and presenters, which also includes the president of the World Union for Progressive Judaism, Rabbi Danny Freelander, and Liberal Judaism leaders including Rabbis Dr Andrew Goldstein, Dr David Goldberg, Elli Tikvah Sarah, Charley Baginsky and Danny Rich. There is a full youth programme and crèche. Liberal Judaism’s Biennial Weekend 2018 takes place from Friday June 29 to Sunday July 1 at the stylish and modern St Johns Hotel in Solihull, just outside Birmingham. For booking details, and to reserve your place, please visit www. liberaljudaism.org/calendar/biennial LIBERAL JUDAISM president Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein was one of the religious leaders reading prayers at the Commonwealth Service at Westminster Abbey, which was attended by the Queen and Royal Family and broadcast live on the BBC (pictured). Prime Minister Theresa May gave a Bible reading during the service. The congregation also included Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. Andrew said: “It was a great privilege to read a prayer from our Siddur Lev Chadash at such an important event.”
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News
May/June 2018
‘We felt David in the music and in our hearts’ Gillian Stern on a concert to launch the David Jacobi Memorial Scholarship Fund
A special concert at Finchley Progressive Synagogue to remember David Jacobi was organised by his father Rabbi Harry Jacobi and siblings Rabbis Richard and Dr Margaret Jacobi (pictured left) with David’s niece Hannah among the performers (right). Pictures by Stanley Volk
IN 1980, my friend David Jacobi came to celebrate my 15th birthday. He handed me a present, which I could instantly tell was an LP. Unwrapping it, I arranged my face to look as though a recording of Bach’s Double Violin Concerto was what I had always wanted. David was always one step ahead of my musical development. As an already-talented cellist, he knew that as a budding violinist I needed to know the Bach Double. And he was right. It went on to become my most listened to album and I still treasure it to this day. I always think of him whenever I hear or play it. My friend David died in December 2016. He was 54-years-old. He had been diagnosed with early onset dementia in 2009. One of the last skills that he retained was his ability to play the Bach Suite for Solo Cello no 1 in G major.
David’s love of music stayed with him to the end of his life, a life that was dedicated to his work as a chemical engineer, social activist, lay leader and expert on Israeli poetry and song. I can think of no better way to honour his cherished memory than a concert in his name; and even more movingly a concert to launch and raise money for the David Jacobi Memorial Scholarship, run by the Razumovsky Trust in conjunction with the Jacobi family. This scholarship will support a young musician from a disadvantaged background, giving them the chance to be enriched by the unique environment of the Razumovsky Academy. The cause would have been close to David’s heart. The concert itself, held at Finchley Progressive Synagogue, brought David’s love of music to a packed audience.
The music was performed by members of his old string quartet; his nieces, cellist Anna Ehrlich and vocalist Hannah Jacobi, who sang a wide variety of solo numbers and duets with Judith Sheridan; his friends, pianists Stephen Gutman and Polina Kogan; and the great cellist Oleg Kogan, whose exquisite and fiery rendition of Rachmaninov’s Sonata in G Minor for Cello and Piano is still with me. It isn’t quite possible to describe the emotional resonance of the afternoon. The performances were beautiful, each musician clearly playing with David in mind, and the variety of the material – from Bach to Lehrer – perfectly captured his range of musical passions. His family, Rabbis Harry, Dr Margaret and Richard Jacobi, spoke movingly about David, whose presence we all felt both in the music and in our hearts.
Lea chairs global Zionist body
#EnoughIsEnough
RABBI LEA MÜHLSTEIN is the new international chair of ARZENU, the umbrella organisation of Reform and Progressive Religious Zionists. Lea’s role will see her ensure that the interests of ARZENU’s constituent groups in 14 countries around the world, as well as Progressive Jews more generally, are represented within the governing bodies of Israel’s four National Institutions. These are the World Zionist Organization the Jewish Agency for Israel, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael and Keren Hayesod. The position makes Lea the only British representative, and the only person under 40, on the executive of the Jewish Agency.
Lea said: “It is a great privilege for me to have been elected as the international chair of ARZENU. I am deeply committed to being a vocal and effective advocate for our Progressive values.” Two issues that Lea has been dealing with recently are the ongoing negotiations with the government of Israel over an egalitarian section at the Kotel, and opposition to the deportation of African asylum seekers without due process.
MEMBERS of Liberal Judaism, led by chair Simon Benscher (pictured), took part in the Westminster protest calling on Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn to tackle the antisemitism within his party. Simon said: “I was proud to stand with Jews of all denominations and our neighbours. We must always unite to fight against hatred and intolerance.”
Communities
May/June 2018
Memory Matters in Northwood
NORTHWOOD & PINNER LIBERAL SYNAGOGUE (NPLS) hosted a very special visit from the Jewish Museum as part of its ‘Memory Matters’ club (pictured). The museum ran a workshop showing objects and images from its collection, depicting the history and heritage of Jews in Britain through the themes of migration, family and faith. During the session, all the attendees had an opportunity to explore and handle objects brought in, which tell the story of families who lived in the Jewish East End. Memory Matters is a twice-monthly outreach club at NPLS offering stimulation and companionship to support people who may be experiencing problems with their memory, as well as other difficulties. It is organised in partnership with Jewish Care.
Northwood’s senior rabbi, Rabbi Aaron Goldstein, said: “This special event saw participants benefit from the regular partnership of Jewish Care and NPLS, with the added value that this outreach project from the Jewish Museum brings. This is a great example of the Jewish community using its combined resources in an intelligent and meaningful way.” Angela Peters, NPLS care coordinator, added: “Memory Matters is the ideal opportunity for participants to find a new hobby, revisit a favourite pastime and build friendships. The aim is to enhance health and wellbeing, combat loneliness and isolation and build confidence.” Memory Matters runs fortnightly on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at NPLS. For more information, contact Aaron on rabbiaaron@npls.org.uk
Shuls join Muslim social action
Liberal Jews joined Sadaqa Day in Peterborough and Nottingham. Picture (left) by Toqeer Sethi
MEMBERS of Peterborough Liberal Jewish Community and Nottingham Liberal Synagogue braved snow and ice to take part in Sadaqa Day, a Muslim-led day of social action based on Mitzvah Day. In Peterborough, the community teamed up with the Masjid Khadijah Islamic Centre in a series of projects including enrolling new stem cell donors, picking up litter in local areas and serving tea and cake at Werrington Lodge, a care home for older people including those living with dementia.
Both the Jewish and Muslim participants enjoyed working together and said the day went a long way towards fostering community cohesion in the city. In Nottingham, the synagogue put on a special evening event at the Salaam Shalom Kitchen, which it runs jointly with Muslim charity Himmah. Together they served more than 60 meals to local vulnerable people, helped by additional volunteers from the Al-Nisa Network. To find out more about Sadaqa Day, please visit www.2018mysadaqaday.org
LJ Today Page 3
A tale of two cities
By Judith King SINGERS from The Liberal Jewish Synagogue (LJS) had the pleasure of travelling to sing with, and for, two Progressive communities in Paris, France (pictured). In turn we then welcomed singers from Paris at our Shabbat services a few weeks later. The project came about when LJS music director Cathy Heller Jones, together with Rabbis Alexandra Wright and Rachel Benjamin, coordinated with Rabbi Pauline Bebe of the Communauté Juive Libérale and Rabbi Tom Cohen of Kehilat Gesher. Not only did we receive an immediate and enthusiastic response to our suggestion of a visit to Paris, but were immediately asked whether there could be an exchange one. And so it was that a pop-up group of singers from the LJS Members’ Choir, joined by others from our community, made our debut at the Friday evening service at the Communauté Juive Libérale. There was much joyful singing during the service and the congregation stayed to hear our little concert, absolutely insisting on an encore - a Yiddish inspired folksy version of Adon Olam. The next day we went to Kehilat Gesher to take part in their Shabbat morning service. Again, we were given a wonderful reception. The synagogue choir, led by Tom MacFarlane, was truly magnificent and we sang separately and together. Two months later, Kehilat Gesher made a return visit to London. They sang with us during our LJS Shabbat services and gave a highly enjoyable concert, ably led by Juliette Regnaud. The trips made for a fascinating and positive experience for us all, leaving a lasting impression, special camaraderie and lots of new tunes to learn. We’re already looking forward to next year’s exchange programme.
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Communities
An interfaith tour to Israel and Palestine
May/June 2018
A unique Liberal Upsherin Alison Turner on a special ceremony in Herefordshire
By Rabbi Dr Margaret Jacobi
Isaac before and after his first ever haircut
I WAS one of 24 Jews, Christians and Muslims from Birmingham who spent an intense seven days in Israel and Palestine. The tour was organised by four friends who felt that by visiting together we could work to overcome one of the sources of tension between our faiths. The itinerary was put together by Ophir Yarden of ADAShA: The Jerusalem Center for Interreligious Encounter. Our first day was spent seeing the holy sites in Jerusalem, including the rare opportunity to enter Islam’s sacred Al-Aqsa Mosque. The next day, we had a thoughtprovoking trip to Mount Herzl to discuss Zionism and visited Yad Vashem - The World Holocaust Remembrance Center. We were also inspired by the tranquil oasis of Tabgha - on the Sea of Galilee - a home to Jewish, Christian and Muslim children with disabilities. The most difficult part of our trip was hearing from a Jewish settler in East Jerusalem and, immediately afterwards, a Palestinian who refused to recognise Israel’s right to exist. A stay in Bethlehem brought home the reality of the occupation. However, we found hope in our meeting with Palestinian Sami Awad of the Holy Land Trust, who works for peace by bringing people together. We experienced the joy of Shabbat at synagogues in Jerusalem and at home with our tour guide, also receiving inspiration at the Yad B’Yad School where Jewish and Palestinian children learn together. We returned home with some difficult memories, but a renewed determination to work together and continue to learn from each other.
IN MID-MARCH, while Hereford was languishing under an amber weather warning and a thick blanket of snow, 15 people gathered from Wales, London, Derbyshire and Preston for a unique ceremony supported by Herefordshire Jewish Community. Led by Rabbi Dr Robert Ash, from Preston, we came to cut the hair of our son Isaac Turner for the first time, following his third birthday, in a ceremony known as Upsherin that until now was practiced only by the Orthodox, particularly Charedim, in the UK. We had the support of Rabbis Danny Rich and Aaron Goldstein in this, who in turn helped us find Rabbi Dr Robert Ash, minister of the Lancashire and Cumbria Liberal Jewish Community. All three rabbis commented that they had never heard of Liberals performing this before. As archivist of Liberal Judaism, I have also not come across any other Liberal Jewish families carrying out this practice and would be pleased to hear from any readers who have done so. You can email me on a.turner@liberaljudaism.org
My husband Marc and I found the Upsherin a very meaningful way to mark Isaac’s transition from baby to toddler and to reiterate all our hopes for him. Following an old Sephardi custom, we had a sandpit in front of the bimah for a Biblical reason and a local one. Firstly, it remembered God’s promise to Abraham following the Akedah: “I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the seashore.” Secondly, it was there to remember one of the founders of our local Herefordshire Jewish Community, the late Rabbi Bernard Hooker, and his time spent as a rabbi in Jamaica where some of the synagogues have sand floors. Due to the snow, our hairdresser was stuck in Droitwich. Luckily my friend Cathy stepped in to oversee the cutting and a neighbour Joan provided the scissors. After the service, each person could cut and keep a lock of Isaac’s hair. We hoped to donate this hair to the Little Princess Trust, a local charity giving real hair wigs free to children who have lost their own hair after cancer treatment or other illness. Sadly there was not nearly enough, so instead we collected money for the Trust and for PJ Library, which sends Jewish children, including Isaac, free books each month. We finished by teaching Isaac alef and beit and giving him these letters in chocolate so that learning should be sweet upon his tongue.
Double batmitzvah in Dublin THE COMMUNITY at Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation (DJPC) celebrated a very special Passover service which included batmitzvah celebrations for Orla Godfrey and Yasmin Abrahamson Schwartz. A first in DJPC’s 72 year history, the combined Passover and batmitzvah service was led by Rabbi Dr Charles Middleburgh. Orla, who was born in Hong Kong, has been a regular at services and cheder since her parents Jeremy and Julie moved to Dublin. She was joined on the bimah by Yasmin, who lives in Israel, and was visiting family in Dublin over Pesach. Both families were enthusiastic about holding the events on the same day, and so it was that Orla and Yasmin became
batmitzvah on the first day of Pesach, making this a truly memorable occasion for everyone present. To make the event even more unique, Yasmin was the fourth generation of her family to celebrate a batmitzvah at DJPC following her mother Tali Abrahamson Schwartz, grandmother Hilary Abrahamson and great-grandmother Jacqueline Solomon. Dublin founder member Jacqueline celebrated her batmitzvah 10 years ago at the age of 82, with the service also led by Rabbi Dr Charles Middleburgh. • Pick up the next issue of lj today for more on this story and Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation.
Communities
May/June 2018
LJ Today Page 5
Gender neutral b’nei mitzvah is just the first Miriam Taylor Thorpe on being the proud mother on a groundbreaking day in York LAST December our child Esther had their b’nei mitzvah at York Liberal Jewish Community. Esther identifies as gender non-binary (neither male nor female) and with the support of the community and Student Rabbi Gabriel Webber we were able to celebrate their (Esther prefers the pronoun their/them) coming of age with language that reflected their identity. “Britain’s first ever b’nei mitzvah” was at once a huge celebration with acres of media coverage, and a totally matter of fact event. This ordinariness made the day so very special. It proved that this was an authentically and unashamedly Liberal Jewish celebration. It made us confident that there will be more b’nei mitzvot and that they will be just as normal. We belong to a Jewish tradition that always tries to engage with honest, true and loving human experience. We look to Torah expecting to find that it includes all Jews, rather than insisting that some are excluded. We believe God makes a covenant with each individual, as well as the whole people, and must keep looking for shared language to reflect that. Before Esther came out as non-binary it had never occurred to me to wonder whether our Judaism would embrace and welcome my children. After Esther came out I still didn’t question that they would. But I did ask “How?”
René’s school trip KINGSTON LIBERAL SYNAGOGUE’S Rabbi Dr René Pfertzel paid a special visit to Mosaic Jewish Primary School, a thriving crosscommunal school in South London. René met the school’s Torah Team (pictured), the pupils who help to organise Jewish practices. He helped them place mezuzot on classrooms, a move which was made as a result of a recent school council meeting. Now in its fifth year, and with 150 children, the Roehampton-based school is growing fast. Ofsted awarded the school an outstanding rating for excellent teaching and learning. For further information, please visit www.mjps.org.uk
Esther with Student Rabbi Gabriel Webber
As with so many things in Jewish life, it came down to the words. Esther needed a Hebrew name and Jewish identity that would last them a lifetime. That meant it needed to be real Hebrew: recognisable and resonant - not faddy or made up sounding. It’s a sign of the quality of our student rabbi that we never doubted he could come up with the words that could
A SPECIAL musical evening will take place at Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue (NPLS) on Sunday May 20 at 7.30pm, as the international touring guitar duo Julie Patchouli and Bruce Hecksel bring their award-winning sound to the UK. Americans Julie and Bruce who are friends of NPLS members Diana and Phil Stone – have been performing for more than 20 years, recording 21 albums and playing in excess of 4,000 shows. Playing in two genres, one as Patchouli and the other as Terra Guitarra (www.patchouli.net), they have received multiple song-writing awards. Their music has been described as “innovative”, “epic” and “spine-tingling”. Tickets cost £17.50 from diana@ stoneemail.co.uk or 01923 537 225. The concert will benefit the Michael Sobell Hospice and NPLS.
easily be read to call Esther to the Torah anywhere in the world… and later to a chuppah and later still to stand at their children’s b’nei mitzvah. And Gabriel did. They are Esther mi’beit Miriam – from the household of - which expresses the correct relationship between Esther and their Jewish family heritage, while making it clear who they are themselves. Once that was settled there was simply(!) the learning, the writing, the practising, the lessons, the organising and, on the day, the singing, the dancing, the davening, the chanting, the d’var, the happily proud parents… then the party. And once the dust had settled and the internet trolls had left for other bridges, I asked Esther to quickly share what it had all been like. Esther said: “Liberal Judaism is already a really accepting and diverse place and that makes it easy to be who you really are. Coming out as non-binary was nice and easy here. It felt good. “When we were planning my b’nei mitzvah I was stressed because it’s never been done before. It felt like a big responsibility to get things right for other non-binary kids in the future. I trusted our community and student rabbi to take care of that and they did a wonderful job. “I feel part of a Jewish community accepted and acknowledged.”
Diamond dozen
A FULL congregation at East London & Essex Liberal Synagogue (ELELS) enjoyed a Shabbat service led by a dozen different lay leaders… but no rabbis. Ben Glassman, the joint chair of the synagogue’s rites and practices committee, who himself led part of the service, said: “This was a bit of an experiment but turned out to be a resounding success. We weren’t necessarily looking to repeat this approach to leading a service, but with so many members asking when the next one is we had better get on with it!”
May/June 2018
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A programme to define our movement Rabbi Aaron Goldstein on what’s in store at the Liberal Judaism Biennial Weekend WHEN our Biennial Weekend organising committee sat down to start planning this year’s conference, we asked ourselves what sets Liberal Judaism apart. We are rightly proud of our inclusive approach to Judaism – which makes us the home for everyone’s Jewish story no matter their background – and a cutting edge mix of tradition and modernity. But on top of that, what really makes Liberal Judaism special is the clear sense of congregations, members and clergy all working together for mutual benefit and advancement of wider society. Unique among Anglo-Jewish religious organisations, we are truly a movement.
This will be on display nowhere more so than at the Biennial Weekend, through an exciting and eclectic programme that you can read in full on the right. We will welcome keynote speakers Rabbi Danny Freelander and Gillian Merron. Danny is president of the World Union of Progressive Judaism, as well as the co-composer of staple synagogue music such as Adonai Oz and Shalom Rav. Danny will challenge us to continually innovate and embrace those whose children will otherwise turn away from Judaism. Gillian, chief executive of the Board of Deputies, will reflect on the Board’s role in the community and on
fighting antisemitism. Her appearance could not be more timely. We will also experience a morning service from the draft new Liberal Judaism siddur, hear from its coeditors and have opportunity to give our feedback. Rabbi Judith Rosen-Berry, our key theologian, will talk about the ‘turn’ away from God and look at the ‘traces’ of God we might articulate, attune to and act upon. We will debate the future of our movement, look at how we can build relationships in our own communities and enjoy food, drink and entertainment. So join us at the Biennial and discover how Liberal Judaism is on the move.
Subsidised places available The epikouros EACH Liberal Judaism congregation will be able to send one new member to the Biennial Weekend for a heavily subsidised price, so that they can take part in a special track designed to develop relationships and our communities. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of the NLPS Trust, one person from each affiliated congregation can attend for just £50 including accommodation, food and all materials (regular adult price is £300). They will then take part in the ‘Relational Judaism – Pathways to Participation’ track, working alongside an established member of their community to foster a relational chevruta (partnership) experience. This track is timed so that participants will not miss any of the Biennial, being able to take part in the full programme alongside these extra sessions. The track will see the new and more ‘seasoned’ members working side by side to learn relational community building skills, in order to further strengthen their own web of relationships and to deepen the Liberal Jewish community as a whole. It will help create paths of participation so that everyone feels valued.
Rabbis Sandra Kviat and Leah Jordan, who put the track together, said: “Jewish community and identity is built on relationships – relationships with our family and friends, with our congregations and with our wider Jewish community. “Each one-to-one relationship we have is the building block upon which community is built. Community is not about numbers, or bums in seats, but about what connects us and binds us together – whether that be our fears, what keeps us up at night, or our dreams and aspirations of what we long to do.” In a separate scheme, Liberal Judaism also offers assistance so that financial constraints do not prevent anyone from taking part in the Biennial Weekend. For information on either subsidised places or financial assistance, please email Tom on t.rich@liberaljudaism.org
THE Biennial Weekend takes place from Friday June 29 to Sunday July 1 at the St Johns Hotel in Solihull. To book your place, visit www. liberaljudaism.org/calendar/biennial
vs the believer TWO well-known Talmudic personalities of the early second century CE were Elisha ben Abuyah and his pupil Rabbi Meir. Elisha was known as Acher, the ‘Other One’, because of his heretical views, whereas Meir was a pillar of the rabbinic establishment. In one Talmudic story, Elisha is in deep conversation with Meir on a Sabbath day - he on his ass and his pupil walking alongside. Elisha ignores the eruv (legal limit) for permitted travel on Shabbat and rides beyond the boundaries of Judaism, whereas Meir stays safely inside... At the Biennial Weekend, Rabbi Dr David Goldberg and Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein will inherit those roles. In what will be a heated but vital debate, the two Liberal veterans - who remember the days when most Liberal Jews worshipped bareheaded and bacon was on the menu at our conferences - will consider whether it is time for Liberal Judaism to once again strike out beyond the boundaries or whether we should instead consolidate our position as a recognised branch of Anglo-Jewry.
SESSION TRACK
SESSION ONE
SESSION TWO
SESSION THREE
LJ Today Page 7 SESSION FOUR
MUSIC
Transformative effect of presentational and participatory music on a congregation
A vision for the future of Liberal Jewish music
Sing a new song: The role of the cantor in Liberal Judaism
Inheritance tracks
May/June 2018
All sessions accompanied by Liberal Judaism’s resident pianist Franklyn Gellnick
LITURGY SOCIAL ACTION / POLITICAL INCLUSIVITY
THEOLOGY
Student Rabbi Gershon Silins & Cantor Tamara Wolfson
Introducing a new liturgy for the 21st century
Translating our prayers afresh for our new Siddur
Rabbis Lea Mühlstein & Elli Tikvah Sarah
Rabbis Janet Burden & Alexandra Wright
God(dess?) language: From masculine hebrew to an inclusive siddur
So what do you make of the new draft shabbat morning service?
Rabbi Mark Solomon
Rabbi Aaron Goldstein
“Sanctuary Sukkot” and the 80th anniversary of the Kindertransport
Storytelling for justice
Rabbi Danny Freedlander & Student Rabbi Gershon Silins
Practical action on Liberal Judaism’s values: Community sponsorship & refugee families Tim Finch & Tamara Joseph
How inclusive are we? Shoshana Bloom
Is contemporary Liberal Jewish theology sustainable or even desirable? Rabbi Drs Judith Rosen-Berry & René Pfertzel
RADICAL RABBIS MISSION TECHNOLOGY
CREATIVITY
ISRAEL
Student Rabbi Gershon Silins
Dean Staker
How Mussar can move your community toward becoming a Kehillah Kedoshah Rabbi Monique Mayer
Building a movement strategy for justice Charlotte Fischer & Tamara Joseph
Liberal Judaism: Pioneers of inclusion?
Charlotte Fischer & Tamara Joseph
It ain’t what you say, it’s the way that you say it
Charlotte Fischer & Tamara Joseph
From the Biennial to home - making inclusion a reality
Panel: Shaan Knan, Rabbi Richard Jacobi, Ellie Lawson
Shoshana Bloom
Atheist, agnositic, theist Does it matter what Liberal Jews believe?
What can Liberal Jews say about God? What do we think we ‘know’?
Should prophetic Liberal Jewish theology be Political?
Rabbi Drs Judith Rosen-Berry & René Pfertzel
Rabbi Drs Judith Rosen-Berry & René Pfertzel
Rabbi Drs Judith Rosen-Berry & René Pfertzel
Radical rabbis
Leo Baeck College and the future rabbinic leaders of Liberal Judaism
The continuing evolution of Liberal Judaism: Tomorrow’s radical rabbinate
Panel: Rabbis Danny Rich, Anna Gerrard, Elli Tikvah Sarah, Pete Tobias
Liberal Judaism: The missionary position
A challenge to Liberal Jews
Rabbi Charley Baginsky
Rabbi Danny Freedlander
Making hashtags count
Skyping the rabbi
Jess Baker
Student Rabbi Igor Zinkov
Kitchen stories
Rabbi Dr Charles Middleburgh
The epikouros vs the believer, Elisha ben Abuyah and Rabbi Meir
Shoshana Bloom
Student Rabbis
World Jewish Relief: Putting mission into practice
Rabbi Drs Andrew Goldstein & David Goldberg
Richard Verber
From the lightbulb to the launch
The only thing that ever works
Lauren Keiles
Ben Combe
How do we tell our hardest stories?
All my limbs shall say, who is like You O God?
Creative memory keeping
Abi Symons
Rabbi Anna Gerrard
Kathryn Michaels
Economics, Jewish values and the Bonds between us
How far have we come? An update on Progressive Israel from IMPJ & IRAC
An academic’s perspective on Israel
Reconnecting with Israel: New resources for Liberal Judaism communities
Joe Ozer & Carrie Shaw
To be confirmed
Danielle Oxenham
To be confirmed
Carrie Shaw
IN ADDITION TO THE MAIN PROGRAMME: • LJY-Netzer will be running a full parallel programme for children between 6 and 15 years old. The programme will feature classic LJY-Netzer sessions as well as presenters from the main programme. A teen programme will facilitate teenagers to attend the main programme. • For children too young to attend the LJY-Netzer programme there will be a fully staffed crèche. • The Relational Judaism - Pathways to Participation track will be run in between the main programme so participants can attend all sessions. Please note all sessions are subject to change
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News
May/June 2018
LJ updates Introducing the Eco Synagogue • THE Liberal Judaism Rabbinic Conference has changed its name. Our movement’s professional clergy will now hold the moniker The Conference of Liberal Rabbis and Cantors to reflect the growing importance of music. Conference chair Rabbi Aaron Goldstein said: “From Liberal Judaism’s earliest traditions of soaring choral music to the infectious tunes of LJY-Netzer today, music is a vital element in our communal and spiritual experiences. “With some congregations now moving towards using professionally trained cantors – bringing new skills that both embrace and challenge tradition – we wanted to give that wider recognition within our movement as a whole.”
• A VERY happy 60th birthday to Bedfordshire Progressive Synagogue chair David Young. David enjoyed a surprise party (pictured above) with guests including Liberal Judaism chair Simon Benscher, treasurer Rosie Ward and Rabbi Robert Ash. • LIBERAL JUDAISM has put together a pack to help communities navigate the new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). If you haven’t received yours, please contact shelley@liberaljudaism.org
• FOR more great Pesach photos, like these snaps from Eastbourne and Elstree, please log on to www.facebook.com/liberaljudaism
Tamara Joseph on an initiative to tackle climate change
Dr Rowan Williams and Michael Lassman at Eco Synagogue launch. Picture by Ian Morris
WOULD you like to know how you and your community can take practical action to tackle climate change and other environmental issues? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the task facing us but small actions can be effective and cumulative, can show us how things can be different and can bring about real change. Earlier this year representatives of Finchley Progressive, Nottingham Liberal and Mosaic Liberal Synagogues were among 150 people from more than 20 communities who came together at New North London Synagogue for the launch of a new cross-communal initiative. Eco Synagogue is a project to help synagogues to become greener and to support positive environmental practices. It offers synagogues an easy-to-use online self-assessment survey to carry out an audit of current practices, develop an action plan and achieve accreditation.
A highlight of the launch event was the appearance of the former Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams, who took part in an illuminating and engaging conversation with Masorti Judaism’s senior rabbi, Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg, followed by a lively Q&A session. Dr Williams spoke compellingly about how his concern for the environment and sense of our custodial responsibility for the created world is grounded in his reading of our shared sacred texts. Liberal, Reform, Masorti and United synagogues are involved in the scheme, with Finchley Progressive Synagogue (FPS) one of five founding communities. At the launch, members of FPS presented a short film documenting the work they are doing – giving examples of the practical and achievable steps that any synagogue can take to have a positive impact on the environment. FPS are building a ‘Green Team’ to oversee the Eco Synagogue project and looking at: how their buildings and land are cared for and used; food purchasing; recycling; how the cycle of the Jewish year can provide opportunities for preaching, teaching and practical action for the environment; and how to have an impact on the environmental practices of the congregation. Would you like to introduce Eco Synagogue to your community? For more information about the scheme, visit the web-site at www.ecosynagogue.org or e-mail t.joseph@liberaljudaism.org
Training days
Kolín swim
TWENTY-FOUR members of Progressive Judaism communities from all over the UK assembled to learn about the tools and techniques of community organising, in training delivered by Citizens UK, Liberal Judaism and Reform Judaism. Delivered over two Sundays, it showed how community organising can help to strengthen congregational participation and leadership, promote membership growth, take effective action for justice and bring about a better world. Participants described the training as “empowering” and “a valuable resource”. The next two day training will be held in North London on Sunday July 15 and Sunday July 22. If you would like to be part of the sessions, contact Tamara Joseph on t.joseph@liberaljudaism.org
ON Sunday August 26, the Hana Greenfield Memorial Swim will take place in the Czech town of Kolín - in memory of one of its few Holocaust survivors. Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue (NPLS) has a Torah Scroll from Kolín, and over the past 40 years has developed close ties with the town. During a visit in 2015, NPLS member Jane Drapkin met Meira, Hana’s daughter, and after bonding over a love of swimming they decided to organise a charity swim in Hana’s honour. It will likely be the first time that Jews and non-Jews have swum together in the Kolín river since Hana was a child, 85 years ago. All Liberal Jews are invited to be part of this historic event. For more information, contact jane_drapkin@hotmail.com
Obituary
May/June 2018
LJ Today Page 9
He brought us quizzes, cricket and Israel Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein remembers the life of Geoffrey Davis (1923-2018)
Geoffrey Davis (centre) presenting the 50th LJ Annual Inter Synagogue Quiz trophy to Elstree
GEOFFREY DAVIS was a life-long supporter of Liberal Judaism, Israel and cricket. He was first attracted to our movement by Archie Fay, the then lay minister of Brighton & Hove Liberal Synagogue, and Lily Montagu encouraged him to get involved. In time, he and wife Betty became stalwarts of Wembley & District Liberal Synagogue – playing a key role in the annual bazaar and old time music hall shows within the synagogue, as well as travelling to entertain at friendship clubs. After taking up various positions in his synagogue and our national movement, in 1970 Geoffrey become chair of the Union of Liberal and Progressive Synagogues, as Liberal Judaism was then known.
During his six years of chairmanship Geoffrey was involved in many initiatives, especially the founding of a number of new communities including Stanmore Liberal Jewish Congregation, now the thriving Liberal Synagogue Elstree. In 1975, he inaugurated one of our movement’s most treasured events – the Liberal Judaism Annual Inter Synagogue Quiz – and donated the trophy on which the winners’ names are inscribed. The competition has successfully continued to this day, bringing together teams from all over the movement, and we recall his pride when attending its 50th anniversary and presenting his trophy to the winning Elstree community that he helped to found.
Help Holocaust Survivors Centre’s Testimony Project ARE you a survivor of the Holocaust? Or do you know someone who is? The Holocaust Survivors Centre, run Jewish Care, is keen to record the memories of Holocaust survivors as part of its Testimony Project. Interviews are carried out by a small but dedicated group of volunteers, who are trained and supervised. They usually take place at the interviewee’s home. Liberal Judaism’s Lesley Urbach helps to coordinate the scheme, which has now been in existence for more than 16 years. Lesley said: “These testimonies try to reflect the full and broad lifetime of the interviewee, giving a detailed description from early memories of childhood right up to the present day, encompassing the effect that the Holocaust has had on the whole of their life.”
The digitally recorded interviews are primarily for the survivor and his or her family. In addition, where permission has been given, the recordings are copied and lodged with a museum or library such as the National Sound Archive of the British Library, the Wiener Library or any other preferred by the interviewee. Once filed, the interview can be accessed by researchers and so provide a first-hand account of the rise of Nazism. Lesley added: “The value of these eyewitness accounts is immeasurable both in terms of trying to help us understand the unimaginable, and so attempting to learn for the future, as well as rebutting Holocaust denial.” To take part, please contact Lesley on lcurbach@aol.com or 020 8346 2257, or Helen Norman on HNorman@jcare.org
After stepping down as chair, Geoffrey was appointed a vice president and trustee of Liberal Judaism. Then, in 1987, he and Betty joined the first Ba’alei Tefillah lay leadership scheme, directed by Rabbi Dr Charles Middleburgh. Once qualified they toured the country visiting small communities – Geoffrey taking the service and preaching and Betty leading the singing. They became members of Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue. Geoffrey first got involved in cricket back in Brighton and went on to play for many teams, especially Harrow Cricket Club. He organised four tours with them to Israel and was instrumental in getting Israeli cricket to be a member of the International Cricket Conference. He raised funds to send equipment to Israel and invited Israeli teams to tour England. Geoffrey brought cricket to Israel and Israel to Liberal Judaism. He supported Rabbi Sidney Brichto in sparking a new interest in support of Israel within the movement, as well as involvement with the general Jewish community through the Joint Israel Appeal. In time he and Betty bought an apartment there. It was, however, his four children, eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren, and his 68 years of marriage to Betty (who survives him), that gave him the greatest satisfaction.
Counters needed THE B’s Buttons Project wants to thank all the readers of lj today who have donated buttons for the memorial to the 1.5 million children who perished in the Holocaust, which is to be created in Windermere. But they still need more! Buttons can be sent to B’s Buttons c/o Montagu Centre, 21 Maple Street, London, W1T 4BE or brought to the Liberal Judaism Biennial Weekend. The project also needs your help counting the buttons. Communities can hold their own button counts or find a nearby one to volunteer at. To register or find your nearest count please email Tom on t.rich@liberaljudaism.org Buttons should be sorted into groups of 2,000 and deposited in clear sealed freezer bags. Each bag needs to show the number of buttons it contains, written in a permanent marker pen on the outside, with each seal taped to ensure no buttons fall out during transportation.
Page 10 LJ Today
Books
May/June 2018
A book to inspire a new generation Ashes to Light: A Holocaust Childhood and a Life in Music by Nelly Ben-Or (ISBN: 9781788313094) REVIEWED by Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein ABOUT 40 years ago I persuaded Nelly Clynes, a fairly new member of my Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue, to tell her story. She was reluctant, like many a Holocaust survivor in those days, but one Friday night after kiddush she agreed. It was maybe the first time she had publicly recalled her life. It soon became evident that there was much to tell and we had to reconvene the following Shabbat for the second part.
Now she has written down her story and it is an inspiring read. Born in Lviv (as it is now called) into a traditionally Jewish family, she showed early promise as a pianist and had started serious lessons when the Nazis invaded Poland. Nelly’s father was murdered. However she, her sister and mother survived by pretending to be Catholic Poles. Moving on a midnight German officers’ train to Warsaw, where it was considered “safer”, they survived outside the ghetto due to the bravery of a series of Polish Catholics and the financial support of an uncle, who was also in hiding. Sometimes there was a piano in their hiding place and so Nelly could continue her practice. After the War, she restarted her studies in the conservatoire in Katowice
– Warsaw having been destroyed – and she was just beginning to thrive when her mother was forced to take her to Israel due to new outbreaks of antisemitism in Poland. Another difficult period; but in time, and now Nelly Ben-Or, she became an international concert pianist and a teacher of the Alexander Technique. Moving to London she eventually became professor of piano and the Alexander Technique at the Guildhall School of Music, where she still teaches. Nelly is a committed Liberal Jew. Her story goes from the ashes of the destroyed Warsaw to the light of her adopted name threaded through with the music that kept her alive in order to inspire a new generation. It is a book well worth reading.
A fitting tribute to one of Israel’s greats Yitzhak Rabin: Soldier, Leader, Statesman by Itamar Rabinovich (ISBN: 9780300212297) REVIEWED by Rabbi Dr Charles Middleburgh THE NATURE of political assassination is that it tends to overshadow the life and work of its victim: in the case of Jack Kennedy it is the lasting memory of his truncated presidency. Partly, I suspect, in a necessary effort to prevent this being the case with Yitzhak Rabin, one of Israel’s foundational figures gunned down by a Jewish right-wing fanatic in 1995 at a peace rally in Tel Aviv, this biography was commissioned. This title, part of Yale University’s excellent Jewish Lives series, and written by a former Israeli Ambassador to the US, provides a proper perspective on the life and work of one of Israel’s greatest sons, a courageous soldier, a diplomat, a government minister and ultimately a Prime Minister.
There are seven chapters in the book, between a Prologue and Epilogue - The Making of a Soldier, 1922-1948; From Independence to the Six Day War, 19491967; Ambassador to Washington, 19681973; First Tenure 1974-1977; Fall and Rise, 1977-1992; Rabin’s Peace Policy, 1992-1995; Politics, Policy, Incitement, and Assassination, 1992-1995. Rabin was a complex figure with his failings and failures as well as his successes, including a record in public service that was not unblemished. His commitment to the cause of peace, when it was finally made, was genuine and had he succeeded in his endeavours the current state of affairs in the Middle East, never mind internal Israeli politics, would likely have been very different.
HAVA FLEMING of York Liberal Jewish Community is appealing for written contributions to a creative celebration of ‘Becoming Jewish’, for use at the festival of Shavuot. Please think about sharing any heartfelt words you may have read or written, a song, piece of music or a visual image, which could enhance
the spirit of the festival when we traditionally stand (again) at Mount Sinai and affirm Ruth’s words. Hava explains: “In one sense we are all becoming more Jewish day by day, through our contributions to the tribe, to our local community and to mankind in general. I want to take these ideas and to develop a new, creative liturgy.
This may be explained in several ways, but it is worth remembering, as Rabinovich states, that Rabin was opposed to the settler movement and would have reined it in, thus potentially avoiding the ghastly state of affairs on the West Bank and Gaza. Many heads of state came to Israel for Rabin’s funeral, to pay tribute to his life and work, and President Clinton expressed their loss in two poignant words, ‘Shalom Chaver’ (farewell friend). This biography is no less fitting a tribute.
“It does not matter if you think your idea is obvious; please send it in anyway as a word document, PDF, something scanned from a book, or a website or YouTube link. A few words about what your quoted piece means to you is also welcome but not essential.” Please send all contributions to havaflemingww2@gmail.com
Youth
May/June 2018
LJ Today Page 11
LJY-Netzer is Liberal Judaism’s Zionist youth movement. It gives young people the opportunity to develop a strong Progressive Jewish identity, make lasting friendships and have loads of fun
Seder for 100 as Pesach Awards for celebrated at spring camp LJY’s Lauren
A Passover Seder (left) enjoyed by the whole camp and some of the other highlights of Aviv
LJY-NETZER Machaneh Aviv was even more special this year, with a last night Seder for more than 100 young people. Seeing out Passover in style, the Seder featured cultural contributions and traditions from all around the world, ranging from Gibraltan charoset to the Persian custom of hitting ourselves with spring onions while singing Dayenu. With the spring camp taking place in Sussex, far from the nearest kosher supermarket, leaders had to bring plenty of supplies – resulting in more matzah than could possibly be eaten. Luckily members put their Liberal Jewish values into action by donating the remaining three crate loads to a homeless charity. LJY-Netzer movement worker Hannah Stephenson said: “One of the main things we try to provide is the chance to explore Judaism in a fun and exciting way, while also providing Jewish experiences for those who haven’t had them before. This is why the last night Seder was so special as it put those things into practice.”
“This is the first time Aviv has taken place on Pesach for 20 years, so we wanted to make it memorable for all those involved… and it truly was. “Being in the room while more than 100 children were singing Dayenu and hitting themselves with spring onions is a sight I will never forget. The excitement throughout the Seder was infectious and it was an incredible evening.” Participants on Aviv also enjoyed a range of activities - from learning new songs and chants to discussing homelessness to the traditional wide game consisting of hundreds of water balloons, several large water guns and some well-known superheroes. For those already missing Aviv, or who missed out this year, please don’t worry – our flagship Machaneh Kadimah summer camp will be here soon. It takes place from August 13-26 and we can’t wait to see as many of you there as possible. For more information, use the contact details below or visit www.ljy-netzer.org
ON THE LJY-Netzer youth track at the Liberal Judaism Biennial Weekend we are going to be learning about a variety of topics, eating and praying together, and having lots and lots of good times.
We will enjoy parachute games, learn about different Jewish traditions from around the world and recreate some of the tracks seen in the main programme, including on stories and social action.
LJY-NETZER leader Lauren Keiles has won the Joy Cohen Award for Outstanding Young Leadership by a Woman. Lauren received the honour at the UJIA (United Jewish Israel Appeal) Ladies’ Night event, held at London’s Grosvenor House. She was praised by judges for her leadership work within LJY-Netzer, Leeds University Jewish Society and the Union of Jewish Students. Earlier this year, Lauren was also presented with the Emerging Jewish Leadership Award at the annual World Union of Jewish Students ceremony. Rabbi Charley Baginsky, Liberal Judaism’s director of strategy and partnerships said: “I speak for everyone when I say how proud we are of Lauren and her achievements. She is a truly outstanding leader within LJY-Netzer, and beyond, and it’s wonderful to see that recognised so publicly.”
Our programme ranges from learning music written for the LJY-Netzer community to getting messy with our creative approach to Judaism. So join us at Biennial for a whole weekend of fun!
Contact LJY-Netzer: Ellie Lawson (e.lawson@liberaljudaism.org), Simon Lovick (s.lovick@liberaljudaism.org) and Hannah Stephenson (h.stephenson@liberaljudaism.org); Director of Youth - Rebecca Fetterman (r.fetterman@liberaljudaism.org)
May/June 2018
Page 12 LJ Today
Liberal congregations Bedfordshire Progressive Synagogue T: 0845 869 7105 E: bedsps@liberaljudaism.org W: bedfordshire-ps.org.uk
Edinburgh Liberal Jewish Community T: 0131 777 8024 E: info@eljc.org W: eljc.org
Beit Klal Yisrael (Notting Hill) E: bkymailing@gmail.com W: bky.org.uk
Finchley Progressive Synagogue T: 020 8446 4063 E: fps@liberaljudaism.org W: fps.org
Birmingham Progressive Synagogue T: 0121 634 3888 E: bps@liberaljudaism.org W: bpsjudaism.com Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue T: 01273 737 223 E: info@bhps-online.org W: bhps-online.org Bristol and West Progressive Jewish Congregation T: 0117 403 3456 E: bwpjc@bwpjc.org W: bwpjc.org Crawley Jewish Community T: 01293 534 294 Crouch End Chavurah E: info@crouchendchavurah.co.uk W: crouchendchavurah.co.uk Dublin Progressive Congregation E: djpc@liberaljudaism.org W: djpcireland.com
Ealing Liberal Synagogue T: 020 8997 0528 E: els@liberaljudaism.org W: ealingliberalsynagogue.org.uk East London & Essex Liberal Synagogue T: 020 8554 9682 / 020 8989 7619 E: eastlondonandessexliberal@gmail.com W: eastlondonandessexliberal synagogue.org Eastbourne Liberal Jewish Community T: 01323 725 650 E: eljc@liberaljudaism.org W: eljc.org.uk
Gloucestershire Liberal Jewish Community T: 01242 260 497 E: shalom@gljc.org.uk W: gljc.org.uk Herefordshire Jewish Community T: 01594 530 721 E: hjc@liberaljudaism.org W: herefordshirejc.org Kehillah North London T: 020 7403 3779 E: knl@liberaljudaism.org W: nlpjc.org.uk Kent Liberal Jewish Community T: 07952 242 432 E: enquiries@kljc.org.uk W: www.kljc.org.uk Kingston Liberal Synagogue T: 020 8398 7400 E: kls@liberaljudaism.org W: klsonline.org Leicester Progressive Jewish Congregation T: 0116 271 5584 E: lpjc@liberaljudaism.org W: lpjc.org.uk The Liberal Jewish Synagogue (St John’s Wood) T: 020 7286 5181 E: ljs@ljs.org W: ljs.org The Liberal Synagogue Elstree T: 020 8953 8889 E: tlse@liberaljudaism.org W: tlse.org.uk
The Montagu Centre 21 Maple Street London, W1T 4BE T: 020 7580 1663 E: montagu@liberaljudaism.org W: liberaljudaism.org
Liberal Judaism is the dynamic, cutting edge of modern Judaism. It reverences Jewish tradition, seeking to preserve the values of the past, while giving them contemporary force. Charity Number: 1151090
lj today is edited by Simon Rothstein Send your news to ljtoday@liberaljudaism.org Printed by Precision Printing. www.precisionprinting.co.uk
Lincolnshire Jewish Community T: 01427 628 958 E: ljc@liberaljudaism.org W: lincolnshirejc.co.uk Manchester Liberal Jewish Community T: 0161 796 6210 E: mljc@liberaljudaism.org W: mljc.org.uk
South London Liberal Synagogue (Streatham) T: 020 8769 4787 E: slls@liberaljudaism.org W: southlondon.org Stevenage Liberal Synagogue T: 01438 300 222 E: stevenageliberalsynagogue@gmail.com W: stevenageliberalsynagogue.org.uk
Mosaic Liberal (Harrow) T: 020 8864 5323 E: office@mosaicliberal.org.uk W: mosaicliberal.org.uk
Suffolk Liberal Jewish Community (Ipswich) T:01473 250 797 E: sjc@liberaljudaism.org
Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue T: 01923 822 592 E: npls@liberaljudaism.org W: npls.org.uk
Tikvah Chadasha Synagogue (Shenfield) T: 01277 888 610 E: tikvahchadasha@gmail.com W: roshtikvah.com
Norwich Liberal Jewish Community E: nljc@liberaljudaism.org W: norwichljc.org.uk
Wessex Liberal Jewish Community (Bournemouth) T: 01202 757 590 E: info@wessexliberaljudaism.org.uk W: wessexliberaljudaism.org.uk
Nottingham Liberal Synagogue T: 0115 962 4761 E: nls@liberaljudaism.org W: nottinghamliberalsynagogue.com
Peterborough Liberal Jewish Community T: 07561 331 390 E: info@pljc.org.uk W: pljc.org.uk Reading Liberal Jewish Community T: 0118 942 8022 E: readingliberaljewishcommunity@
West Central Liberal Synagogue T: 020 7636 7627 E: wcls@liberaljudaism.org W: wcls.org.uk York Liberal Jewish Community T: 0300 102 0062 E: info@jewsinyork.org.uk W: jewsinyork.org.uk Developing and affiliated
gmail.com W: www.readingljc.org.uk
Beit Ha’Chidush (Amsterdam) T: +31 23 524 7204 E: bhc.informatie@gmail.com W: beithachidush.nl
Shir Hatzafon (Copenhagen) E: shir@shirhatzafon.dk W: shirhatzafon.dk
Lancashire & Cumbria Liberal Jewish Community W: www.northwestjews.org
South Bucks Jewish Community T: 0845 644 2370 E: sbjc@liberaljudaism.org W: sbjc.org.uk
Oxford Jewish Congregation T: 01865 515 584 E: progressive@ojc-online.org W: ojc-online.org
Southgate Progressive Synagogue T: 020 8886 0977 E: sps@liberaljudaism.org W: sps.uk.com
President Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein Chairman Simon Benscher Vice Chair Ruth Seager Treasurer Rosie Ward Secretary Dr Howard Cohen Israel and the Diaspora Tamara Schmidt Communications Ed Herman Social Justice Amelia Viney Youth and Education Robin Moss Music and IT Graham Carpenter National Officers Ros Clayton, David Hockman, Amanda McFeeters and Jackie Richards Vice Presidents Monique Blake, Henry Cohn, Lord Fink, Jeromé Freedman, Louise Freedman, Rabbi Dr David Goldberg, Sharon Goldstein, Lucian Hudson, Rabbi Harry Jacobi, Willie Kessler, David Lipman, Corinne Oppenheimer, David Pick, Rosita Rosenberg, Tony Sacker, Harold Sanderson, Joan Shopper, Beverley Taylor and Ken Teacher Chair of The Conference of Liberal Rabbis and Cantors Rabbi Aaron Goldstein Senior Rabbi and C hief Executive Rabbi Danny Rich Director of Strategy and Partnerships Rabbi Charley Baginsky Student Chaplain Rabbi Leah Jordan Education Rabbi Sandra Kviat Music Cantor Gershon Silins Interfaith Rabbi Mark Solomon Events and Fundraising Thomas Rich Operations Director Shelley Shocolinsky-Dwyer Director of Administration Alexandra Simonon Archivist Alison Turner Communications and Digital Simon Rothstein and Yszi Hawkings Director of Youth Becca Fetterman LJY-Netzer Ellie Lawson, Simon Lovick and Hannah Stephenson