The clergy and members of Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue (BHPS) re-enacted the community’s first service, from spring 1935, as part of their 90th anniversary celebrations.

More than 60 congregants dressed in period clothing and used the 1926 Liberal Jewish Prayer Book – thee-s and thou-s and prayer for King George and the Empire included! Rabbi Gabriel Kanter-Webber gave a sermon based on the news from May 1935.

BHPS Rabbi Emeritus Elli Tikvah Sarah (pictured top with Rabbi Gabriel) said: “This was a wonderfully conceived and executed celebration, and our members rose to the occasion!”

BHPS President Sandra Walker added: “This was a fantastic experience and we want an excuse to do it again soon!”

Rabbi Gabriel’s costume was based on an early photograph of a visit to BHPS by Liberal Judaism’s founder Lily Montagu (pictured right). It was assembled with the kind assistance of neighbouring congregations. His black gown was loaned by Kingston Liberal Synagogue, and his velvet preaching cap was custom-made by a milliner who is a member of the South London Liberal Synagogue.

The BHPS catering team based their costume on tea-room waitresses of the time and many more of the fantastic outfits can be seen in the photo below.