The launch of Voices for Prophetic Judaism (VfPJ) brought together 51 online participants for a deeply inspiring Tikkun Leyl Shavuot. You can watch it here.

Rabbi Elli Tikvah Sarah, who introduced the event, traced the roots of Prophetic Judaism, reflecting on the significance of launching the initiative on Shavuot, the moment when a People emerged from the wilderness. She highlighted the core principles of justice, ethical responsibility, and transformation, framing the discussion around how Jewish communities act today.

The evening included a rich array of contributions from five Rabbis/Cantors, each offering unique insights into prophetic themes in Jewish thought, text, and tradition.

Opening the programme, Cantor Rachel Weston brought the ‘Book of Ruth’ to life through her chanting of Chapter 1, complemented by three moving Yiddish poems based on the story.

Rabbi Gabriel Kanter-Webber examined freedom of the pulpit, drawing parallels between 19th-century Christian and Jewish preachers who navigated political and social tensions.

Rabbi Elli revisited the question – What is Prophetic Judaism? – through poetry from Jewish American, Jewish Israeli, and Palestinian Israeli voices.

Rabbi Dr Margaret Jacobi explored Emmanuel Levinas’ commentary on Talmudic passages concerning justice.

The night also included Rabbi Jeffrey Newman’s exploration of revelation through the story of Hanokh of Alexander, a reflection by Rabbi Dr Judith Rosen-Berry (pictured) on Franz Kafka’s short story ‘Give It Up!’ which she transformed into the message that we must never give up.

Rabbi Elli said: “The energy and enthusiasm of all those taking part demonstrated a clear hunger for prophetic teaching and action. With thought-provoking and inspiring presentations and the passionate commitment of all those who participated, the launch of Voices for Prophetic Judaism signalled the beginning of a transformative renewal of Jewish ethical engagement.”