Around 400 people gathered in London to celebrate the launch of The Movement for Progressive Judaism – representing the communities, partners, clergy, donors, students, youth leaders and friends who together form the heart of what we do.

Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Josh Levy, Co-Leads of our new Movement, began the evening by speaking passionately about the dedication and partnership of so many. They said: “Tonight is not simply a celebration. It is a moment of history, a moment when the vision, courage and optimism of so many people come together to create something bold, hopeful and essential.

“This Movement exists because of countless acts of love, courage, generosity and commitment. Rabbis and cantors who guide with depth and compassion. Volunteers who give their time and their hearts. Educators who spark curiosity. Professionals who hold the fabric of our communities together. Donors who believe in the future of Progressive Judaism. Lay leaders whose dedication and wisdom shape our work and the life of our communities. We are indebted to all of you.”

Another special moment came when Rabbi Shulamit Ambalu and Rabbi Igor Zinkov – the Chairs of the two Progressive clergy bodies – led the whole room in hamotzi, the blessing for bread, with Rabbi Igor then blowing the shofar to herald the start of a new Movement.

Throughout the night, guests heard incredible music and song from a clergy choir, containing rabbis and cantors from across our Progressive communities. Grace after meals was led by Movement Workers from both LJY-Netzer and RSY-Netzer together.

The set piece of the evening was an enthralling conversation between Rabbi Rebecca Birk and Attorney General Richard Hermer. The Attorney General, a member of Alyth, told of the transformative impact of growing up in RSY-Netzer – explaining how the Progressive Jewish youth movement profoundly influenced his sense of ethics and obligation.

Paul Langsford and Karen Newman, the outgoing Chairs of the Movement for Reform Judaism and Liberal Judaism, also gave moving speeches, with Karen saying: “As we honour the legacy of those who went before us, let’s work together to build a Movement for Progressive Judaism of which they as well as we would and will be proud.”

Thanks to the commitments made in advance and in the room, The Movement for Progressive Judaism has now secured an extraordinary level of new support – raising £2.2 million.

Every gift shapes what we can build. To make a donation, please click here.

Another highlight of the dinner saw the announcement of the Launch Board of The Movement for Progressive Judaism. Alongside new MPJ Chair Dr Ed Kessler MBE will be Paul Langsford and Karen Newman as Legacy Trustees, a rabbi or cantor from each of our two clergy bodies, Noeleen Cohen, Nigel Cole, Jonathan Lewis, Jack Lubner, Richard Reuben, Michele Saffer, Tania Townsend and Tommer Spence.

Ed, speaking for the first time as Chair of MPJ, made the evening’s appeal. He said: “Your support will strengthen communities, sustain our clergy, develop leadership, secure our youth work, and ensure that our Progressive voice is present where it is needed most. This is not simply philanthropy. It is participation in building a Jewish future worthy of our values.”

Thank yous were made to all who helped make the night such a success, especially the organising team of Amit Handelsman, Noeleen Cohen and Penny Beral, and the professional staff of The Movement for Progressive Judaism.

Messages of congratulations came in from Britain’s most senior political and faith leaders, as well as our Progressive partners from around the world. You can read all the messages in full in our dinner brochure.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “The Movement for Progressive Judaism is a powerful voice of moral conscience, dialogue and partnership within our faith communities and the nation as a whole.”

Leader of His Majesty’s Official Opposition Kemi Badenoch said: “The Movement for Progressive Judaism has shown how to honour treasured traditions, while creating something strong and vibrant for the generations ahead.”

The event was covered in depth by The Jewish Chronicle and Jewish News. You can see some of the amazing photos and videos from the night by following us on Facebook and Instagram (pictures by Graham’s Photos).

A powerful film was played during the evening, showing many of the wonderful things Progressive Judaism brings to the world, what life would be like without it, and the mission of our new Movement.

Please watch… and imagine with us the difference a world with Progressive Judaism can make.