Last Erev Shabbat, the gentle routine of lighting candles and the familiar melodies of the Nottingham Liberal synagogue Friday night service were captured not only by the hearts of those present, but also by the cameras of CTVC, a London-based independent television production company.

As part of a forthcoming BBC series exploring faith in contemporary Britain, CTVC filmed the Erev Shabbat service, which will offer viewers a glimpse of Progressive Jewish prayer.

It provided a positive opportunity to share the warmth, song, and meaning of Shabbat with a wider audience inviting reflection, understanding, and perhaps even a spark of spiritual curiosity.

The service was led by Nottingham’s Rabbi Gili Zidkiyahu and Progressive Judaism Co-Lead Rabbi Josh Levy.

Rabbi Josh Levy and Rabbi Gili Zidkiyahu

Rabbi Gili said: “I was a little nervous before the filming started as I didn’t want to feel self-conscious or it to be like I was acting… and this was why we decided to film an actual authentic Erev Shabbat service rather than stage one outside Shabbat. As it turned out the service was not like our usual Friday night services as we had additional musicians and many more members come along to support the initiative. The opportunity to co-lead with Rabbi Josh was lovely. However the familiarity of the Siddur and the tunes created a natural flow and I was uplifted by the energy of those present.

“I really enjoyed the upbeat Erev Shabbat service including traditions, songs and community. I was very happy to see how important it was for NLS members to come and support NLS and Progressive Judaism and embrace the opportunity to show how fun and meaningful our services are.”

And Nottingham members in the congregation clearly enjoyed the evening too.

Ronne Randall said: “I loved the Erev Shabbat service. Not because there was a film crew recording it for the BBC. Once the service started, they pretty much faded into the background. It was the service itself that moved and inspired: the uplifting spirituality of the niggunim, the psalms, the poetry; and the feeling of connection and community. I hope those things will come across when the programme is aired.”

And fellow member Karen Worth added:” It was slightly odd during the service knowing that everything we were doing was being filmed but the lovely young crew were unobtrusive and very friendly, so it made it much easier. I enjoyed being interviewed afterwards and especially the discussions with the crew about Progressive Judaism.”

The series, titled Prayer & Reflection, begins on Sunday 14 September on either BBC1 or BBC2. CTVC has already recorded services across multiple faith traditions, weaving together moments of devotion from churches, mosques, as well as shuls. The series will open with a recording of shacharit from St John’s Wood United synagogue. The Nottingham Liberal episode is scheduled for transmission later this year.