“Then [the Gadites and Reubenites] stepped up to him and said, ‘We will build here sheepfolds for our flocks and towns for our children” (Numbers 32:16). How can we build a safe and secure world for ourselves and those who come after us in times of transition and uncertainty? That … Read More
Woodford Shabbat accessible to all
7 August 2016 Woodford Liberal Synagogue (WLS) has held its fourth Shabbat Shelanu, an inclusive Saturday morning service, accessible for people with learning disabilities and welcoming to all. Led by Rabbi Richard Jacobi, Shabbat Shelanu services provide an opportunity to celebrate Shabbat in a relaxed and friendly environment, through music, … Read More
Parashat Massei 5776
“Then [the Gadites and Reubenites] stepped up to him and said, ‘We will build here sheepfolds for our flocks and towns for our children” (Numbers 32:16). How can we build a safe and secure world for ourselves and those who come after us in times of transition and uncertainty? That … Read More
Second Scarborough service is a success
1 August 2016 More than 30 people attended the latest Liberal Judaism service to be held in Scarborough. Set up by the York Liberal Jewish Community, the initial Scarborough event took place in March – and was the first Jewish service held in the North Yorkshire Town in living memory … Read More
Parashat Mattot 5776
“Then [the Gadites and Reubenites] stepped up to him and said, ‘We will build here sheepfolds for our flocks and towns for our children” (Numbers 32:16). How can we build a safe and secure world for ourselves and those who come after us in times of transition and uncertainty? That … Read More
Parashat Pinchas 5776
There are only six chapters in the Bible named after people: “Noah”, “Chayyei Sarah ” (Life of Sarah), “Jethro”, “Korach”, “Balak”, “Pinchas”. One out of six is perhaps not too bad if one looks at the disproportionate attention on male figures in the Torah. If we look at the totality … Read More
How to be part of the Open Talmud Project
Rabbi Leah Jordan 19 July 2016 The Open Talmud Project (OTP) is now entering its seventh summer – and this year’s annual weekend is set to be bigger and better than ever. Founded in 2009, the Open Talmud Project is a growing cross-denominational, grassroots initiative for close encounter with Talmud … Read More
[Sermon] Shabbat Balak 2016/5776 – Terrorism
Rabbi Alexandra Wright 2 July 2016 This sermon is offered as a reflection on terrorist events that have happened, not only in recent days but in over the past two years. It was a sermon given on Shabbat Balak, July 4th, 2015 and has been slightly amended to include recent events. … Read More
A response to the massacre in Nice
Rabbi Alexandra Wright 15 July 2016 Just over a week ago, we marked the eleventh anniversary of the July 7th bombings in London. That day is etched deeply forever in the memories of those who live and work in London, especially for those who lost members of their family and community, our … Read More
Parashat Balak 5776
A few years ago I made attempts to drive at home in Wales. Driving in the UK was a step outside my comfort zone, having grown up in the United States where I learned to drive on the right side—right-hand side—of the road. I lived in perpetual fear of entering … Read More