Birmingham Progressive Synagogue was filled with pride and youthful energy when a group of its younger members led the Shabbat service alongside their parents to mark their summer with LJY-Netzer.

They spoke beautifully about their experiences from the fun and friendship of Kadimah, to the creativity and learning of Kayitz, and the powerful experience of the Israel Tour. Each story reflected the energy, growth, and connection that come from being part of a vibrant youth movement.

They offered a window into the power of the Progressive Jewish youth movements to inspire, challenge and lay down a path for the future. Parents beamed, congregants listened intently, and the shul seemed to glow with the promise of the next generation.

Rabbi Lisa Barrett, who arranged the service, said: “It was more than a normal Shabbat. It was a celebration of shared purpose, lived values, and the enduring strength of community. We are so proud of our young leaders and the journeys they’re on. May their voices continue to guide us forward.”

Rabbi Dr Margaret Jacobi added: “It was particularly moving to see parents leading the service alongside their children, and in some cases reading Hebrew from the Bimah for the first time, all learning together. The tours were a combination of fun, education and living Judaism that the young people all felt, whichever event they attended.”

Picture (L-R): Arielle Bowen Hunt, Alya Bowen Hunt, Levi Adusei, Sharon Adusei, Sarah Adusei and Toby Godsal