North London Progressive Jewish Community

North London Progressive Jewish Community is a new group which has been developing and evolving for two years. We are an intergenerational, diverse community that is welcoming to all who want to experience Judaism in a range of different ways whether secular, religious, historical, cultural, or for Jewish identity. Some of our members want spirituality, while others are only interested in social/cultural activity, and rarely come to services. Many had not been to Synagogue for years, and had dropped out of the community. Many have non-Jewish partners, or are in same-sex relationships. All are keen to keep in contact with Judaism, and have found a way to do so through our community.

‘NLPJC’ reflects the name of ‘NLPS’ (North London Progressive Synagogue) which some of our members belonged to prior to its closure in 2002. In choosing this name we are continuing to demonstrate our links with that community.

Our new community is thriving. We have our Rabbi, Shulamit Ambalu, a location at the Community Buildings in the grounds of St. Mary’s Church in Stoke Newington, a growing crèche and cheder (Religion School), and a programme of events to suit a wide range of interests. We also have a steering group who ensure that the community continues to evolve in the ways all members want.

We are different from many traditional synagogues as we make every effort to be inclusive and make everyone feel welcome. All are encouraged to share ideas and join in. Our services are inter-active, with members contributing their ideas as we go along.

Here are some of the things we are trying to achieve:

Intergenerational – We welcome individuals and families of all ages, and encourage a strong focus on older people caring about children and younger people, and younger people sharing with elders. We try and create an “extended family” as many adults and children living in the inner city do not have ready contact with their own relatives. Our cheder and crèche are given high priority. We are also developing family services and involve the children in parts of the Saturday morning services.

Learning – We are becoming an exciting place for Jewish learning. We have organised a ‘Yiddish Fest’ and have regular monthly Friday night ‘pot luck suppers’ with activities such as singing, and speakers covering a wide range of topics. Our learning at services and sessions is wide and includes history, culture, literature, music, ethics, Hebrew, Torah, Midrash, Talmud, learning about other Jewish communities worldwide, arts, crafts and dance.

We are growing in confidence and developing our own identity. New members are encouraged to suggest ideas or organise the sessions if they wish. We have celebrated our first barmitzvah, and look forward to many more - and batmitzvahs too! We also look forward to celebrating our first wedding!

Place of spirituality, prayer and God – Some members are religious and/or spiritual. We pray and sing praise at regular services that are innovative as well as building on the traditional. The prayers and aspirations of those who have lived before us, help us in our daily lives, especially in such a stressful and fast changing world. However, not all our members are religious so they lead in secular events and we all join together to celebrate Jewish festivals and traditions.

Burial Fund – As a community affiliated to Liberal Judaism, we participate in their burial fund, so that those who wish to have a Jewish funeral are covered for that purpose.

To be Progressive – To love and consider our heritage but to be forward thinking and adaptable. We are keen to keep what is worth preserving but to adapt to new circumstances, ideas and opportunities. We are creating new ways to experience Judaism and endeavouring to ensure a meaningful, real, life-enhancing experience not only for committed members but also others who are willing to explore a different kind of Judaism from what they have known before, and for those who are experiencing it for the first time.

Social Action – As a community we aim to be an influence for good in Hackney, Haringey, Islington and surrounding areas. We want to be able to contribute to the life of the larger community and to help create a better place for all.

North London Progressive Jewish Community (NLPJC), PO Box 42702, London N19 5WR c@liberaljudaism.org www.nlpjc.org.uk

Registered charity no: 1097713