Joan Shopper has retired as Liberal Judaism’s Marriage Secretary. Liberal Judaism CEO, and Progressive Judaism Co-Lead, Rabbi Charley Baginsky said: “Joan has committed time and love to supporting the lifecycle moments of Liberal Jews over decades. The meaningful wedding ceremonies offered by our clergy were only possible because of her … Read More
Progressive Judaism Co-Lead addresses Sikh celebration
Rabbi Charley Baginsky, Co-Lead of Progressive Judaism, was a keynote speaker at the City Sikhs celebration for the 555th birthday of Guru Nanak Dev Ji – the founder of Sikhism. The event was held in the Houses of Parliament, and Rabbi Charley highlighted how faith provides much-needed illumination and guidance … Read More
Kallah retreat gives clergy a chance to renew and re-energise
The rabbis and cantors of Liberal Judaism held their annual Kallah retreat, using it as an opportunity to learn and pray together, and especially to take restorative time. Led by Rabbi Sandra Kviat (Crouch End Chavurah) and Rabbi Gili Zidkiyahu (Nottingham Liberal Synagogue), the colleagues used the retreat to support … Read More
Eighth cohort of Ba’alei Tefillah lay prayer leader course launches
The launch of the eighth cohort of Liberal Judaism’s flagship course for training lay prayer leaders took place this weekend at the Montagu Centre, a fitting venue named in honour of one of the movement’s pioneers, Lily Montagu. This special occasion not only marked the beginning of an exciting journey … Read More
Paying tribute to Simon Benscher
Simon Benscher – one of the most important figures in the modern history of Liberal Judaism – has died. A former Chair of the movement, his passion was building real connections with Liberal communities and members. He also played a vital role in merger conversations between Liberal Judaism and The … Read More
A Sukkot reflection from Liberal Judaism’s President
By Rabbi Alexandra Wright President of Liberal Judaism What can one say that is new about this autumn festival of Sukkot? Should we draw attention to the Torah reading for the first day of the festival (Leviticus 23:33-44): the designation of the full moon in the seventh month, the first … Read More
Board of Deputies President to address Liberal Judaism Council Meeting
Liberal Judaism is delighted to announce a special event on Wednesday 6 November, when it welcomes Phil Rosenberg, President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, as guest speaker. The highly anticipated meeting of the Liberal Judaism Council will be held via Zoom, with this part of the proceedings … Read More
Memorial event shows resilience of the Jewish community
Reform and Liberal community members from all over the country came to London for a memorial event in Hyde Park to mark the one-year anniversary of the 7 October terrorist attacks, mourn the victims and call for the return of the hostages still being held by Hamas. Progressive Judaism Co-Leads … Read More
High Holy Days reflection: Why hope must prevail
By Rabbi Kath Vardi In the book of Kohelet we read, ‘there is nothing new under the sun’ (1:9). It would be easy this year to fully feel the force of this rather pessimistic saying. As we step into the year 5785 we recognise that, rather than settling or renewing, … Read More
A year that showed the importance of movement
By Rabbi Josh Levy and Rabbi Charley Baginsky It’s hard to imagine that this time a year ago, as we prepared for Rosh Hashanah, we had no comprehension that just a few weeks later we would experience the tragedy of 7 October. The last year has been one of complex … Read More