Brighton Progressive time-travels to mark 90th anniversary
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 … Read More
Medieval Jewish cemetery gets protected status after YLJC campaign
After years of campaigning, a landmark moment in the history of York’s Jewish community has been approved. Jewbury – the medieval Jewish cemetery that now lies beneath a multi-storey car park – has been granted protected status as a Scheduled Monument by the Government, following expert advice from Historic England, … Read More
Strings and keys to stir the soul in Elstree
A night of beautiful music and deep emotion played out at The Liberal Synagogue Elstree (TLSE) for the opening of their Arts at Elstree concert series. It featured cellist Ellen Baumring-Gledhill, who is also the artistic director of the Arts programme, and pianist Dafydd Chapman (pictured). The duo captivated an audience of … Read More
Ealing member’s journey from courtroom to bookshelf
After a distinguished career as a senior judge, His Honour Richard Harper’s supposed retirement has led him to an entirely new role – that of a full-time writer. Ealing Liberal Synagogue member Richard (pictured with his family) has achieved a remarkable milestone: the simultaneous recent publication of two books, each … Read More
Register your interest for our week of Progressive Judaism (June 2026)
We want you to celebrate the creation of one Progressive Judaism for the UK with us at a very special week-long series of events in June 2026. A combined flagship Shirei–Chagigah–Biennial gathering Guided tours exploring Britain’s (Progressive) Jewish heritage A centenary event for the World Union for Progressive Judaism Register … Read More
A prayer for the formation of Progressive Judaism
As we gather together to mark this moment, may this new chapter be marked by compassion and kindness, openness and respect, scholarship and joy. Baruch she’natan Torah l’amo Yisrael. Blessed is the One who gave Torah to a people who are willing to wrestle with it. We stand, like those … Read More
History made as Progressive Judaism forms
Press release issued at 11.45 am on Sunday 18 May 2025: ‘Biggest change in British Judaism since the war’ as new Progressive movement forms Member communities of Britain’s Liberal and Reform Jewish movements vote to unite Historic moment is the culmination of 250 years of Progressive Jewish history First ever … Read More