We are compelled to speak out at this time and to say that the death and suffering endured in both Israel and Gaza must come to an end.
Statement on pro-Palestinian protests in the UK
By Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Josh Levy We recognise the diversity of voices on the pro-Palestinian protests and demonstrations – which are taking place in London and around the UK – and that the right to protest is an essential part of living in a democratic society. At the … Read More
Responding to this conflict: A statement of Jewish values and core principles
Leaders, rabbis and members from across the Jewish community have signed a statement of Jewish values and core principles in response to the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The statement is available to read and sign here – www.ourjewishvalues.org.uk. It begins: “We are Jews who believe wholeheartedly in the right … Read More
A Shabbat reflection
As Shabbat is soon to descend, we pray for a sukkat shalom – a shelter of peace. Our heart bleeds. Tears flow. For the lives lost. For the kids who were dancing. For the unimagined horrors of those taken captive. For those families, waiting for any news. Our rage is … Read More
Statement and prayers for Israel from Progressive clergy
“לְמַעַן אַחַי וְרֵעָי אֲדַבְּרָה נָּא שָׁלוֹם בָּךְ” “For the sake of my siblings and friends we pray for peace for all” As the rabbis and cantors of Progressive Judaism, we are shocked and heartbroken at the ongoing terrorist attacks in Israel by Hamas. We are fearful for the citizens of … Read More
Statement on Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel
What should have been a day of joyful celebration – as Jews in the UK, Israel and around the world mark Simchat Torah – has instead become a day of mourning, horror, fear and sadness. Liberal Judaism and The Movement for Reform Judaism strongly condemn these barbaric acts of terror … Read More
Message from Rabbi Charley Baginsky on coronavirus (COVID-19)
12 March 2020 I know that this is a very uncertain time for many people and the level of fear in our community and in the world at large is rising. I am sure that many of you are considering how to change your behaviours to keep you and your … Read More
Statement on London Bridge terrorist attack
2 December 2019 Liberal Judaism joins with all those who mourn for Saskia Jones and Jack Merritt – the two victims of another awful terrorist attack on British soil. Saskia and Jack may never have heard the Jewish term of tikkun olam (repairing the world) but they were certainly practitioners … Read More
A statement on the mass shootings in America
5 August 2019 As we read the news of more horrendous attacks – this time in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio – our first thoughts go, of course, to the bereaved and injured. They will be held in our prayers. Once again individual men have shown the depth to … Read More
Statements on the terrorist attack in San Diego
28 April 2019 From the Conference of Liberal Rabbis and Cantors: We are deeply saddened by the second recent deadly attack on a synagogue community at prayer. At times when congregants are seeking spiritual sanctuary, it is grievous that they cannot assume physical sanctuary. We think of all those wounded … Read More