LJ Today July/August 2013

July/August 2013 VOL. XL No. 4

Liberal Judaism is a constituent of the World Union for Progressive Judaism

www.liberaljudaism.org

ljtoday

‘Today is but the beginning’

A multi-choir concert and inspiring call to arms by Rabbi Charley Baginsky were highlights of the Day of Celebration. Pictures by Charles Davis

M

ORE THAN 250 Liberal Jews, from 24 different congregations, made their way to Birmingham for this year’s Day of Celebration. They were hosted by the community of Birmingham Progressive Synagogue who opened their hearts, doors and every room of their beautiful building for a wide array of sessions, stalls and discussions.

Liberal Judaism chief executive Rabbi Danny Rich opened the event, telling participants how proud and inspired he was by the movement. Danny outlined the achievements of the past year – membership growth, more rabbinic appointments and successful support for equal marriage – before a musical extravaganza, which brought together the Birmingham, Kol Kinor and Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue choirs.

This uplifting opening led straight into sessions following four themes: parenting, art & music, study and community. The parenting track covered topics from teenagers and mental health to Jewish mythology about babies.

Music filled the building as people gained experience of all different types of Jewish song and discussed the power it has to unite communities. An extraordinary workshop on the prophetic roots of Liberal Judaism saw nearly 50 people interacting with texts, while rabbis led study groups on the themes of justice, Israel, faith and theology in the sanctuary.

The stunning sanctuary was also used to explore how the architecture of the synagogue can aid worship, as well as for practical advice on photography and promoting our communities. Alongside all this, lunchtime taster sessions provided the opportunity to bake challah, challenge the chief executive and ask the rabbis all those burning questions.

The centrality of sharing resources was at the heart of the Day of Celebration, which provided a means to discuss the real issues that affect synagogues. It was also the launch-pad for Liberal Judaism’s new online Resource Bank, which will provide a means by which many of these resources can be shared.

Rabbi Charley Baginsky began the closure of the conference with this in mind when she reminded everyone that Liberal Judaism is a movement that needs all its participants to engage actively with it; that it is the responsibility of us all to be involved.

Charley closed her speech with the words: “Today is but the beginning, I hope, for all of us coming together to create a movement which has the potential to bring about change, to create a world that is better because we are in it.” She also encouraged everyone to look towards next year’s Biennial Weekend, which takes place from May 9-11 2014.

Charley was followed by one of the high points of the day, as the South Bucks Jewish Community cheder won the first ever LAFTA (Liberal Academy for Film and Torah Awards) trophy. Finally, the Day of Celebration ended with a poignant and relevant song from Daniel Cainer, the comic bard of British Jewry, titled How We’re Blessed. Indeed, we had been.

What a wonderful day for all.

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Chairman’s Actions

July/August 2013

Why solidarity matters Lucian J Hudson outlines LJ’s commitment to Israel

Lucian J Hudson (second right) and other community leaders, including Lord Sacks (centre), join His Excellency Daniel Taub (right) at the Closer to Israel parade and celebration in London

LIBERAL JUDAISM is Zionist, in favour of a negotiated two-state solution and in opposition to all boycotts. Our members hold a range of views on Israel. Some still do not countenance any criticism, but most make a distinction between support for Israel’s ideals and, when appropriate, questioning of its policies.

The challenge for Liberal Judaism is to ensure that its children retain Israel within their DNA. Like it or hate it, Israel is part of what we Jews are. We can argue with it, shout at it, but never walk away from it completely. We have no choice but to engage.

Convene a panel of Liberal rabbis – I suggest Danny Rich, David Goldberg, Charley Baginsky, Shulamit Ambalu, Elli Tikvah Sarah and Neil Janes – and add myself to the mix, and you’ll quickly see the breadth and depth of our thinking as a movement. There will be many common strands, but some different perspectives.

This is not just healthy but vital, if we are to engage effectively.

We should watch for two trends. The first gives up on the relationship between Israel and the Diaspora, leaving each to go its own sweet (or rather sour) way.

The other is a binary choice between unqualified support for the actions of Israel’s government and knee-jerk condemnation.

My recent visit to Jerusalem also revealed a third trend, which diplomats fear has gained ground and needs to be reversed - growing doubt that a lasting peace can ever be achieved. I have come to mistrust the distinction between optimism and pessimism, as it implies a belief about a future that we can never know. I prefer to be positive and realistic, and not miss opportunities or threats.

American Secretary of State John Kerry’s energetic initiative to restart IsraeliPalestinian negotiations is the only show in town, and needs to be supported.

Lack of progress on the peace process should not give way to indifference and cynicism. The details and permutations of any ultimate resolution are pretty clear, so clear in fact that this holds back any side making the first move. We have to keep alive the possibility that a new understanding can emerge and create the conditions in which political leadership can make a difference. Civil society and business need to play their part to shape the right conditions in which such a breakthrough is possible.

An obsession with transparency regardless of its consequences makes any quiet diplomacy almost impossible.

The age of the internet and social media has brought great benefits, but also comes at an enormous cost: we have denied our leaders the space to think creatively and show leadership.

One thing we can do as individual Liberal Jews is renew our commitment to Israel and its wider promise. Along with other Jewish leaders and organisations, Rabbi Yuval Keren and I recently joined the Israeli Ambassador Daniel Taub to celebrate Closer to Israel, a special event to mark Israel’s 65th anniversary.

We speak passionately and proudly of tikkun olam, mending or healing a broken world. As we approach a new Jewish year, let us make the relationship between Israel and the Diaspora a focus for our building that better world. We can take meaningful practical steps, such as taking part in visits and exchanges and supporting partners who are leading initiatives in education, culture, trade and business. Our goal should be nothing less than to refresh and revitalise our sense of common destiny and purpose.

Lucian J Hudson is chairman of Liberal Judaism and a former director of communications for the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office

Join major new Jewish survey THE NATIONAL JEWISH COMMUNITY SURVEY is a major study of Jews in Britain, which will provide vital information about contemporary Jewish identity and needs in order to help communal organisations and service providers plan for the future.

It is the first survey of its kind for more than a decade, and is funded by the Institute for Jewish Policy Research (JPR), Pears Foundation and a wide range of community organisations, charities and foundations. It is being conducted by JPR in association with the research agency Ipsos MORI and the results will be used alongside data from the 2011 Census.

The organisers of the survey want all those over the age of 16 who consider themselves to be Jewish, and are resident in the UK, to take part. No special knowledge is required and your views are very important. If you wish to complete the questionnaire then please visit www.tinyurl.com/NJCSurvey by July 17.

The initial findings will be published towards the end of 2013. After that point, Jewish organisations can then commission JPR’s research team to produce bespoke reports that focus in greater detail on their specific interests.

Liberal Judaism Annual Memorial Services 2013 THIS YEAR’S Annual Memorial Services will take place on Sunday September 1 at: Edgwarebury Cemetery (10.30am) Held jointly with West London Synagogue and officiated by Rabbis Aaron Goldstein, Harry Jacobi and Helen Freeman Pound Lane (midday) Officiated by Rabbis Alexandra Wright and Neil Janes Western Cemetery (1.00pm) Officiated by Rabbi Yuval Keren Golders Green Crematorium (3.00pm) Officiated by Rabbi Jacqueline Tabick Please check www.liberaljudaism.org before attending in case of changes to the information listed above

News

July/August 2013

Do you want to make history?

HOW WOULD YOU like to be the first ever same-sex couple to get married under a Liberal Jewish chuppah?

Following the recent House of Commons and House of Lords votes in favour of equal marriage, the ban on same-sex religious marriage in the UK is expected to end very soon. This will enable Liberal rabbis, who choose to do so, to officiate at all wedding ceremonies and fulfil our movement’s long-term commitment to equal marriage.

The first same-sex couple to marry in France recently gained a great deal of publicity worldwide and it is highly likely that the first ever same-sex Jewish wedding in the UK would receive similar attention. The happy couple would benefit from press quality photographs and possibly TV footage, as well as kvelling at such a trailblazing accolade.

If you, or a couple you know, would like to be the first, then please contact Liberal Judaism’s chief executive Rabbi Danny Rich on d.rich@liberaljudaism.org • LIBERAL JUDAISM’S pioneering LGBT oral history project Rainbow Jews has launched a dynamic new website. The site – www.rainbowjews.com – went live in June, coinciding with the UK’s annual Pride celebrations.

Project manager Surat Knan said: “We invite you to explore and uncover a hidden history. This cutting-edge new website enables the user to discover how the stories and experiences of LGBT Jews have shaped British culture and society.

There are plenty of ways to interact and participate so please do log on and check it out!”

LJ Today Page 3

Israeli ambassador helps celebrate membership growth

His Excellency Daniel Taub and Liberal Judaism’s Rabbi Danny Rich. Picture by John Bernard

HIS EXCELLENCY DANIEL TAUB became the first ever Israeli ambassador to address Liberal Judaism’s Patrons’ Dinner, on a night where the movement celebrated an increase in membership.

The annual black tie event is an opportunity to give thanks to Liberal Judaism’s generous Patrons, outline the achievements of the past 12 months and set out a vision for the coming year.

Ambassador Taub was introduced by former MP and current Liberal Judaism national officer Gillian Merron. His speech concentrated on the world’s fascination with Israel, pointing out the extraordinary frequency with which a country the size of Wales appears on the front covers of national newspapers.

Liberal Judaism chief executive Rabbi Danny Rich also spoke at the event, which was held in the House of Lords, hosted by Lord Fink and organised by Joan Shopper.

Danny reported a three per cent rise in Liberal Judaism’s membership numbers, as well as the affiliation of another new congregation – North Herts Progressive Jewish Community.

Addressing the ambassador, he said: “Your Excellency, we look forward to Liberal Jews and Liberal Judaism as an institution strengthening our ties with Israel further. We also look forward to working together to strengthen Jewish life and fulfil the mission of the Jewish people, both within the country you represent and in our own country.”

THE LIBERAL SYNAGOGUE ELSTREE team of Mike Rebak, Leone Samson, Sue Woolf, Rosita Rosenberg, Michael Reibscheid, David Bernard, Val Dickson and Richard Elman won the Liberal Judaism Inter Synagogue Quiz for the second year running. This year’s event was held at Woodford Liberal Synagogue and saw 10 communities compete for the title. In 2014, the quiz will be hosted by runners-up Finchley Progressive Synagogue as part of their 60th anniversary celebrations.

Elstree chairman Richard Elman said: “The quiz is a great way to keep in touch with other members of the Liberal family. Next year I’d love to see communities coming from even further afield to try and take our trophy.”

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Communities

July/August 2013

Double celebration in Nottingham Southgate rocks

By Linda Ward

David and Gaby Leigh at their barmitzvah and batmitzvah - nearly 40 years after their wedding

NOTTINGHAM PROGRESSIVE JEWISH CONGREGATION (NPJC) celebrated a special double simcha in May when a married couple became its first members to have a joint adult barmitzvah and batmitzvah.

David and Gaby Leigh celebrated the day surrounded by family and friends, some of whom had come from as far away as France, Germany and Italy to support them. Their daughters Miriam and Jessica read the haftarah and the ceremony was officiated by NPJC’s Rabbi Tanya Sakhnovich.

David, who is on the synagogue council and has held a number of important positions within the community, said: “If I had bet on my wedding day that I would be having my barmitzvah nearly 40 years later, together with my wife, the bookmaker would have just lost a lot of money!

“My family were members of North London Progressive Synagogue when I was a child. It was a very Progressive congregation and while barmitzvahs were not prohibited, they were not encouraged.

Instead, I had a confirmation at the age of 15. What’s the difference between that and the barmitzvah I have just had? A feeling here, in my heart.”

Gaby was born in Germany and converted to Judaism through North London Progressive Synagogue as an adult, so never had a batmitzvah. She is also heavily involved with NPJC and gives talks on Judaism at local schools.

She added: “I have always felt accepted and welcomed as a Jewish person and now I feel I have embraced my Judaism totally. The day exceeded all our expectations and I was also delighted to be able to share the occasion with my non-Jewish relatives and friends.”

Getting philosophical at Beit Klal Yisrael

By Mimi Rolbant OVER THE LAST two years, Beit Klal Yisrael (BKY) has organised a series of Shabbat morning study sessions, the focus of which have been the contribution made by several modern Jewish thinkers to philosophy, politics and theology.

Among the texts that we have read together have been Emmanuel Levinas’s Nine Talmudic Readings and Walter Benjamin’s The Arcades Project. Now BKY is offering a course that will involve a close reading and discussion of Martin Buber’s seminal work I and Thou.

This course will enable participants to enjoy what is now understood to be a 20th century spiritual classic. Study sessions, led by Rabbi Dr Judith Rosen-Berry, will take place in June, July, October, November and December.

If you are interested in reading I and Thou with a group of fellow Liberal Jews then please do join us. The study sessions will be held in the library of the Essex Unitarian Church, 112 Palace Gardens Terrace, London, W8 4RT. The nearest tube is Notting Hill Gate. For more information and to reserve your place, please email bkymailing@gmail.com

FRIDAY APRIL 19 proved to be like no other night at Southgate Progressive Synagogue (SPS). Following months of planning and weeks of rehearsals, the first performance of Simon Cooper’s Friday Night Rock Service took place.

Welcoming Shabbat took on a whole new meaning and direction, as familiar tunes were played to a different beat.

The Friday night started as usual, only with a larger congregation (numbering 200) and an atmosphere of anticipation.

Mah Tovu began gently enough, but soon it became clear that these tents would be filled with a drum beat and a heavier metal sound than ever before experienced. Soon everyone was singing along, picking up the rhythm.

The 10-piece band was finely tuned and the vocalists provided as soulful a rendition of the hymns as one could expect. The emotion and symbolism of the words were not lost; the anthem to Shabbat becoming very ‘now’, very pertinent. By Adon Olam the congregation was on its feet and the electric atmosphere was now accompanied by dancing and hand-clapping.

The Friday Night Rock Service was the brainchild of drummer and composer Simon Cooper. In August 2012, Simon underwent a lifesaving double lung transplant, an operation which required him to spend three months recuperating.

He used some of this time to develop the idea, together with lead singers Gemma Franco, Antony Ardeman and rhythm guitarist Paul Cooper. This debut took place just over eight months since Simon’s operation and was brilliantly led

by Rabbi Yuval Keren.

A resounding success, the community hopes to repeat the event later in the year. Meanwhile look out for the group – which also includes Tony Ardeman, Zara Tobias, Daniel Renak, Tony Abrahams, Richard Kerber and Rachael Renak – at a synagogue near you, as they are hoping to spread the word and perform their innovative set around the country.

Communities

July/August 2013

LJ Today Page 5

Become an Ten years of Rabbi Pete active Citizen

By Lianna Etkind EARLIER THIS YEAR, I had the privilege of attending an inspiring Citizens UK six-day training seminar. My community, South London Liberal Synagogue (SLLS), joined the alliance of organising groups more than a year ago. Since then, Rabbi Janet Darley and SLLS members have participated in several Citizens UK events. These have included an action demanding that Hilton Hotels pay the living wage and CitySafe walks on Streatham High Street aimed at making the area safer for young people.

The training was designed to teach us the tools of community organising, and everyone involved is now equipped to participate more effectively in public life and our own institutions. There were attendees from mosques, schools, unions and churches - and a strong showing from Liberal Judaism and LJY-Netzer.

Citizens UK training courses take place throughout the year and are free for affiliated communities. If you would like to go on one then please email me on lianna.etkind@gmail.com for full details.

Fighting back at Finchley FINCHLEY PROGRESSIVE SYNAGOGUE’S Rabbi Rebecca Qassim Birk has offered support and solidarity to the Al-Rahma Islamic Centre community, whose building in Muswell Hill was destroyed by a bomb in an anti-Muslim attack in June.

Working with other local synagogues to provide assistance, Rebecca said: “This was a despicable act of hatred and the entire local Jewish community, and all Barnet residents, stand with the Muslim community in our sympathy, support and offers of practical help.”

Rabbi Pete Tobias is presented with a signed Watford shirt by Elstree’s Davina Bennett

MEMBERS of The Liberal Synagogue Elstree (TLSE) organised a surprise celebration for Rabbi Pete Tobias, to mark his 10th anniversary with the community. The synagogue’s council arranged for a special secret Shabbat morning service to take place, which saw Pete presented with a football shirt signed by his beloved Watford FC.

Singing celebration at the LJS

LJ Learning Network LIBERAL JUDAISM is launching a new series of seminars for all educators involved in cheder and religion schools, allowing teachers, assistants and heads to share resources and experiences. The first event will take place at the Montagu Centre on Sunday September 29.

For details please contact Rabbi Sandra Kviat on s.kviat@liberaljudaism.org

TLSE chairman Richard Elman said: “Over the last 10 years, Pete has been an inspirational rabbi. His services, and indeed all his rabbinic activities, are made with careful thought, sensitivity, commitment, intelligence and, above all, humour. We love having him as our rabbi and look forward to at least another 10 years of his community leadership.”

Judith Silver and participant Norman Lazarus

THE LIBERAL JEWISH SYNAGOGUE (LJS) was full of extra special song and birthday cake in May, as everyone at Singing for the Brain celebrated two years of ‘Happy Thursdays’.

Singing for the Brain was launched in 2011 and is jointly sponsored by the LJS and the Alzheimer’s Society. Led by Judith Silver every Thursday afternoon for the last two years, the programme was developed by music specialists to help people with memory problems. It was created for those with dementia and their carers to help to sustain mental and psychological well-being. To find out more about Singing for the Brain, please email sfb@ljs.org or call 020 7286 5181.

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July/August 2013

Liberal Judaism Day of Ce

The NPLS, Birmingham and Kol Kinor choirs combine for a concert

Rabbi Aaron Goldstein leads a session after cycling from London

A family affair for Rabbis Dr Margaret, Harry and Richard Jacobi

Liberal Judaism chief executive Rabbi Danny Rich addresses more than 250

Rabbis Pete Tobias and Dr Andrew Goldstein at one of 25 sessions

LJ’s communications team turn their hands to making challah

LJ vice chair Simon Benscher thanks BPS president Frank Maxwell

Sam Grant announces South Bucks as the first ever LAFTA winners

July/August 2013

LJ Today Page 7

elebration 2013 in pictures

Rabbi Anna Gerrard launches Liberal Judaism’s Resource Bank

delegates from 24 communities at Birmingham Progressive Synagogue

Dean Staker and Graham Carpenter introduce new creative music

Liberal youth enjoy one of LJY-Netzer’s fun educational activities

Three of the incredible volunteers who helped make the day special

Surat Knan and Yael Shotts share a joke at the Rainbow Jews stall

We hope you’ve enjoyed these fantastic pictures from the Day of Celebration, which were taken by Charles Davis of www.professionalphotography.me.uk Charles is available for weddings, barmitzvahs and batmitzvahs, engagements, family photo shoots and commercial assignments. Charles can be contacted on info@professionalphotography.me.uk or 07824 444 487.

• See more photos from the Day of Celebration on Liberal Judaism’s Facebook page, where you’ll also find all the latest LJ news. Go to www.facebook.com/LiberalJudaism Robin Moss collects the LAFTA trophy from singer Daniel Cainer

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WUPJ

July/August 2013

‘Going forward as one global family’

Rabbis Shulamit Ambalu and Harry Jacobi

THIS YEAR’S World Union for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ) Biennial Conference was a huge success. Held in Jerusalem, the convention saw 300 delegates from more than 40 countries come together in prayer, learning and laughter.

A large delegation from Liberal Judaism returned to the UK enthused.

Rabbi Harry Jacobi hailed it as “the best WUPJ event since 1949”, while Liberal Judaism chairman Lucian J Hudson wants to try and bring a future European Union convention to London.

Chair’s tribute to Lord Sacks LIBERAL JUDAISM chairman Lucian J Hudson has joined other community leaders in marking the departure of Lord Sacks, the outgoing Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth.

Lucian said: “Over the years, British Jewry has been consistently blessed by having moral leaders who speak to our values in ways which engage meaningfully with wider society. Jonathan was not just a powerful voice for Judaism in Britain, but for faith everywhere. His special gift was combining a profound understanding of our tradition with an ability to relate it to modern challenges, so enhancing the standing of the Jewish community now and for years to come.”

Lucian and Liberal Judaism chief executive Rabbi Danny Rich also recently attended a private reception held at the home of Lord Sacks to meet Justin Welby, the new Archbishop of Canterbury, and his wife Caroline.

The Archbishop was thrilled to share The Daily Telegraph’s recent analysis of his family’s German Jewish roots, and spoke to Lucian and Danny about his vision for even stronger inter-faith relations in the future.

WUPJ vice president Shai Pinto praised Liberal Judaism’s representatives, saying: “Your presence and willingness to engage on all levels were a critical factor in the success of our event.

“The responses we received, both during and after the conference, are simply heart-warming and give us great hope that we will continue to be the difference going forward as one global family.”

Rabbi Shulamit Ambalu – co-chair of Liberal Judaism’s Rabbinic Conference – described the event as, “moving, inspiring and uplifting”, but added that it offered a window into a very unequal Progressive Jewish world.

Shulamit said: “Nearly every one of the impressive keynote speakers spoke out of a rich, vibrant, American perspective, addressing real examples of tikkun olam.

Topics included international human rights, disaster relief, tackling third world poverty and gender violence.

“This was a completely outward facing view, with Progressive Jewish values as a background force for social change.

“Yet over coffee, lunch and in many one-to-one conversations – as well as at the rabbinic Kallah (gathering) – a very different kind of picture emerged.

There talk turned to the slow and difficult work of rebuilding Progressive Jewish communities in Central and Eastern Europe. They face many obstacles, but also have the potential to increase the pace of change with our support.

“We, who live in a moderate, democratic, stable and relatively wealthy part of Europe, free to practice our own kind of Judaism, can do so much to share the fruits of our history and our freedom.”

“Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein has been working with rabbinic colleagues across the continent for many years to support and promote European rabbis and the European Beit Din. “The title that the WUPJ give their conferences is ‘Connections’ and right now that is very apt. Connections must be made between the very different parts of the Progressive Jewish world. There is very much that we can do next, and this is really sacred work.”

Strategy

July/August 2013

LJ Today Page 9

Your chance to shape Liberal Judaism’s future The key stages in the production of the Strategic Plan will be:

Pam Fox leads a discussion on Liberal Judaism’s Strategic Plan at the Day of Celebration

BUILDING ON the Liberal Judaism ‘Away Day’ held in January, the Board of National Officers has decided to produce a Strategic Plan for Liberal Judaism. The plan will set out the movement’s overall direction for the next 10 years and how it will go about achieving this vision. It will be a brief and succinct document, which will only include key information such as Liberal Judaism’s main objectives, priorities, roles and responsibilities.

In putting together this plan, Liberal Judaism will not be starting from scratch or ‘throwing the baby out with the bath water’. Instead the movement will seek to build on its existing successful activities and the learning it has gained from them.

Liberal Judaism’s chairman and chief executive, Lucian J Hudson and Rabbi Danny Rich, recognise that this Strategic Plan can serve many different purposes.

These include: ensuring that everyone is moving in the same direction; allowing an organisation to anticipate and respond to change in a planned way; acting as a tool for internal and external communication; providing a framework for accountability and performance management; ensuring consistency in decision-making; and providing a basis for the effective allocation of resources.

Lucian, who is now four years into his term as chairman, believes that this is the right time for the movement to

focus on its longer-term vision and work through its priorities.

He said: “Clarity of purpose and consistent messages about priorities are particularly important in an organisation like Liberal Judaism. We have a geographically dispersed membership and are made up of autonomous congregations. We are governed by a network of different bodies, meeting on varying cycles, and in which work is undertaken by both paid staff and volunteers with many interests. I am confident that we could have even more impact and influence, and stay true to our values, if we organise ourselves more proactively.”

The Board of National Officers has commissioned Pam Fox, an experienced management consultant and member of The Liberal Jewish Synagogue, to facilitate the process for producing the Strategic Plan. A key aspect of this process will be the involvement of as many people as possible.

Following on from her successful sessions at the Day of Celebration, Pam will be using a variety of methods for seeking views on the future direction of Liberal Judaism. The Chairs’ Forum has already embraced the initiative enthusiastically and its members are devising innovative ways of engaging with their congregations.

Preparation (May – July): This first step is already under way and involves initial discussions within LJ, as well as learning lessons from the successes and failures of similar organisations. Relevant structures and processes are being set up, including a ‘working group’ made up of key stakeholders to oversee and provide leadership during the strategy development process.

Consultation on the content of the LJ Strategic Plan (July – September): At this point, both internal and external stakeholders will be contacted to seek their views on the future direction of Liberal Judaism. A variety of techniques will be used to reach different audiences.

Producing an initial draft (September – November): A visioning exercise will be held to generate proposals on the content of the Strategic Plan, which will be discussed and lead to a draft document.

Consultation on the draft Strategic Plan (January – February 2014): This stage will include meetings with key stakeholder groups, as well as an extensive circulation of the document to encourage feedback.

Finalising and communicating Liberal Judaism’s Strategic Plan (January – February 2014) If you would like to get involved in developing the Strategic Plan, express your view on the future direction of Liberal Judaism or simply find out more about the process then please contact Pam on pamfox@virginmedia.com

THIRTY members of Wessex Liberal Jewish Community attended the consecration of the congregation’s new cemetery space in Kinson, Bournemouth, on Sunday May 12.

The plots are the first in Dorset to ever permit non-Jews to be buried alongside their Jewish partners.

Liberal Judaism chief executive Rabbi Danny Rich, who officiated at the consecration, said: “It is a sign of the growing permanence of Wessex Liberal Jewish Community that it can now offer its members and their partners a burial facility in accord with Liberal Jewish principles and practices.”

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Outreach

July/August 2013

Outreach Team Bulletin Board THE LAST TWO months have been busy, but absolutely brilliant. One particular high point was running an adventure day for Bet Tikvah, Woodford Liberal Synagogue and other Progressive communities in Essex/East London. Participants headed to Gilwell Activity Park for an afternoon of exertion featuring group bonding games, high ropes and a high swing (pictured below). It was a great day and will be the first of many cross-communal encounters to come.

MY FIFTH VISIT to Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation was a little bit different. Flying mid-week to celebrate Shavuot, I got to experience a Jewish festival in true Irish style.

The evening service saw a wonderful rendition of South Side Story, a tale of conflict between religious identity and Irish life, in which Yitzi Cohen shocks his parents by falling for Maria. The synagogue doors were not locked until 1am - but we still made it back for services the next morning.

Sam

Rabbi Anna

I WAS DELIGHTED to join Britain’s faith, education and voluntary sector leaders - including those from Reform and Masorti Judaism - at a civil society summit hosted by Citizens UK in June. Liberal Judaism’s partnership with Citizens UK is already helping to strengthen our communities and see our congregations campaign on a range of issues. The summit was a great opportunity to meet with leaders from other faiths and enhance the work we do together.

Rabbi Danny

IN MAY, I joined Wessex Liberal Jewish Community for Shabbat services and presented a workshop titled What Makes Jewish Music Jewish. We talked about the roots of our music and the different paths through which it has developed, from its origins in worship in the Temple in Jerusalem to the introduction of popular music forms over the last few decades, and what those developments might mean for our Liberal congregations.

Cantor Gershon

I WAS invited to Derby for an evening at the university, showcasing the Jewish community and its life and place in the city. Although the synagogue has closed, Jews still gather together and on this night more than 100 people came to sing, dance, eat and ask the rabbi everything they’ve always wanted to know. One highlight was a visit from the ark curtain of the old shul (pictured below), recently discovered in storage at a local museum.

Rabbi Ariel

SEVENTEEN committed people from across the UK have begun their journey to become experienced prayer leaders through Liberal Judaism’s Ba’alei Tefillah programme. This, our third cohort, has made its first explorations into Hebrew and basic grammar, and all the participants returned unscathed. It is an inspiration and an honour to be one of the mentors on the programme and I look forward to many more moments learning with the group.

Rabbi Sandra

Youth

July/August 2013

LJ Today Page 11

LJY-Netzer is Liberal Judaism’s Progressive Zionist youth movement. It gives young people the chance to develop a strong Jewish identity, make lasting friendships and have loads of fun

LJY-Netzer: The Next Generation Meet Tom, Graham and Bethany - the incoming movement workers for 2013/14

Tom Francies

Graham Carpenter Bethany Stone

HI, I’M TOM. I grew up at Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue, where I went to cheder, celebrated my barmitzvah and Kabbalat Torah and completed a GCSE in Jewish Studies. I’m writing this from Guatemala, where I’m volunteering in an animal rescue centre. The purpose of the centre is to nurse smuggled and injured animals back to health and then release them back into the wild.

I joined LJY-Netzer aged 15 and have attended Machaneh Kadimah (summer camp), Kayitz Netzer (Europe Tour) and many Veidot (decision-making forums). I have also led on a number of LJY-Netzer events, including Israel Tour.

I’m excited to be a new staff movement worker, forming one third of the team that will take over from Anna, Robin and Sam later this summer. I am looking forward to the opportunity to help get young Liberal Jews in touch with their Judaism, through prayer and education.

HI EVERYONE, my name is Graham but I have many nicknames focused around the letter ‘G’.

I grew up in Reading Jewish Community and have just completed my degree in music technology at Birmingham City University. During my time at uni, I was an active member of Birmingham Progressive Synagogue – teaching at cheder and occasionally leading services.

I joined LJY-Netzer in 2005. A broken arm prevented me attending a guitar course, so I went on Machaneh Aviv (spring camp) instead and never looked back! I have been fortunate to have had many incredible experiences with the movement, in particular leading Israel Tour last summer.

I’m super excited about becoming a movement worker, mainly because I get to go on Kadimah again and work with two close friends in Tom and Bethany.

Tom’s Jewish quote: “Who is wise? One who learns from every person. Who is strong? One who subdues one’s evil inclination. Who is rich? One who is happy with one’s lot. Who is to be honoured?

One who honours others.” Pirkei Avot 4:1 Tom’s fun fact: I can fit roughly 65 Maltesers into my mouth.

Tom on Kadimah: Places are filling up fast for our summer camp so apply now by visiting www.ljy-netzer.org/applyonline

Graham’s Jewish quote: “The whole entire world is a very narrow bridge. But the main thing to recall, is to have no fear at all.” Rabbi Nachman of Breslov Graham’s fun fact: I can play every LJYNetzer song… backwards.

Graham on Kadimah: I love seeing a community of young people becoming inspired to be a force for good in the Liberal movement and the wider world.

Plus, Kadimah is oodles of fun. Make sure you join us from August 10-23.

HI, I’M BETHANY. I am extremely excited to be starting movement work this year, having just finished my psychology degree at the University of Warwick. I have always belonged to the community at Kingston Liberal Synagogue.

I was introduced to LJY-Netzer at the ripe old age of eight. I joined back in 1999 and haven’t missed a summer since. For the last few years I have been leading on events, including Europe Tour: engaging with 17-year-olds as we explored Jewish history, culture and identity during an incredible two weeks.

I cannot wait to start this new role, as it gives me the opportunity to give back to a movement that has meant so much to me over the years. I am particularly excited about the amazing summer of activities I will have a part in creating for our chanichim (participants).

Bethany’s Jewish quote: “If you will it, it is no dream.” Theodor Herzl Bethany’s fun fact: I am a pogo stick fanatic.

Bethany on Kadimah: Machaneh Kadimah fosters an incredible atmosphere and community, unlike anything else I have ever experienced.

The inclusivity and acceptance given by all means that enthusiasm and originality are cool, allowing people to grow and make life-long friends, while participating in inventive and imaginative activities.

Contact the LJY-Netzer team: Robin Cooke (r.cooke@liberaljudaism.org), Sam Cohen (s.cohen@liberaljudaism.org) and Anna Posner (a.posner@liberaljudaism.org); telephone 020 7631 0584 or email office@ljynetzer.org

Page 12 LJ Today

July/August 2013

Rabbi Pete’s quick quiz

Liberal Judaism congregations

Chairman Lucian J Hudson Vice Chairs Simon Benscher and Jackie Richards Finance David Pelham Israel and the Diaspora Tamara Schmidt Communications Ed Herman Social Justice Amelia Viney National Officers Dr Howard Cohen, Rosie Comb, David Hockman, Gillian Merron and Ruth Seager Vice Presidents Monique Blake, Henry Cohn, Nigel Cole, Geoffrey Davis, Lord Stanley Fink, Jeromé Freedman, Louise Freedman, Rabbi Dr David Goldberg, Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein, Sharon Goldstein, Rabbi Harry Jacobi, Jeremy Jessel, Willie Kessler, David Lipman, Corinne Oppenheimer, David Pick, Rosita Rosenberg, Tony Sacker, Harold Sanderson, Joan Shopper, Beverley Taylor and Clive Winston Chair of Rabbinic Conference Rabbi Charley Baginsky Chief Executive Rabbi Danny Rich Outreach Director Rabbi Anna Gerrard Education Rabbi Sandra Kviat Music Cantor Gershon Silins Interfaith Rabbi Mark Solomon Operations Director Shelley ShocolinskyDwyer PR Alexandra Ben-Yehuda Community Youth Coordinator Sam Grant LJY-Netzer Sam Cohen, Robin Cooke and Anna Posner

lj today is edited by Simon Rothstein The deadline for the next edition is August 1.

Please email your news to ljtoday@liberaljudaism.org Printed by Precision Printing. www.precisionprinting.co.uk

The upcoming fast day of Tishah b’Av commemorates a number of tragic events in Jewish history. Can you name the year in which these events occurred and the name of the historical figure(s) responsible for contributing to the sadness of the 9th Av? 1) The destruction of the First Temple 2) The destruction of the Second Temple 3) The expulsion of the Jews from England 4) The expulsion of the Jews from Spain

Pete Tobias is rabbi at The Liberal Synagogue Elstree

Sidney’s bridge magic

Associated congregations

Beit Ha’Chidush Postbus 14613, 1001 LC Amsterdam, Netherlands, 00 31 23 524 7204; bhc.informatie@gmail.com; www.beithachidush.nl Oxford Liberal Jewish Services: 01865 515584 or 01865 765197; www.ojc-online.org

Make a date ...........

You are West and are playing the contract of 6 Spades. North leads a Diamond towards partner’s pre-emptive bid suit.

When dummy goes down things look good. You have seven tricks in trumps, two in Hearts, one in Diamonds and three in Clubs – making all 13 tricks. So what’s the problem?

July 14 (Sunday) Sunday Seminar: PR at the Montagu Centre, W1T 4BE, 11am-4pm.

Sidney Barrat is bridge teacher at Woodford Liberal Synagogue.

Developing communities

The Suffolk Liberal Jewish Community (based in Ipswich) 01473 250797; sjc@liberaljudaism.org

July 14 (Sunday) Jewish Music Then and Now at South London Liberal Synagogue, 7pm.

August 10 (Saturday) - August 23 (Friday) LJY-Netzer Machaneh Kadimah (summer camp) at Sandroyd School, Wiltshire.

September 1 (Sunday) Annual Memorial Services. See page 2 for full details.

September 29 (Sunday) LJ Learning Network at the Montagu Centre, W1T 4BE. 2014 May 9 (Friday) - May 11 (Sunday) Liberal Judaism Biennial Weekend at Wokefield Park, Reading. See page 8 for more information.

For more information on any of these events please email montagu@liberaljudaism.org Liberal Judaism is the dynamic, cutting edge of modern Judaism. It reverences Jewish tradition, seeking to preserve the values of the Judaism of the past while giving them contemporary force.

Registered charity number 236590.

Quiz answers: 1) 586BCE - Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon 2) 70CE - Titus and Vespasian of Rome 3) 1290 - Edward I 4) 1492 - King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella

The Montagu Centre 21 Maple Street London, W1T 4BE Tel: 020 7580 1663 Fax: 020 7631 9838

The Liberal Synagogue Elstree Elstree High Street, Elstree, Herts WD6 3BY; 020 8953 8889; tlse@liberaljudaism.org; www.tlse.org.uk Lincolnshire Jewish Community 01427 628958; ljc@liberaljudaism.org Manchester Liberal Jewish Community 08432 084441; mljc@liberaljudaism.org; www.mljc.org.uk North Herts Liberal Jewish Community (based in Stevenage) 01438 300 222; northhertsljc@gmail.com; www.northhertsljc.org North London Progressive Jewish Community 020 7403 3779; nlpjc@liberaljudaism.org; www.nlpjc.org.uk Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue Oaklands Gate, Northwood, Middx HA6 3AA; 01923 822592, npls@liberaljudaism.org; www.npls.org.uk Nottingham Progressive Jewish Congregation Lloyd Street, Sherwood NG5 4BP; 0115 9624761; npjc@liberaljudaism.org; www.npjc.org.uk Peterborough Liberal Jewish Community Enquiries: 020 7631 9822 The Progressive Jewish Community of East Anglia www.pjcea.org.uk; enquiries@pjcea.org.uk Reading Liberal Jewish Community 0118 942 8022; rljc@liberaljudaism.org; www.rljc.org Shenfield, Brentwood & Districts Synagogue (Tikvah Chadasha) 01277 888610; tikvahchadasha@gmail.com South Bucks Jewish Community PO Box 826, Amersham, HP6 9GA; 0845 644 2370; sbjc@liberaljudaism.org; www.sbjc.org.uk South London Liberal Synagogue PO Box 14475, London SW16 1ZW; 020 8769 4787; slls@liberaljudaism.org; www.southlondon.org Southgate Progressive Synagogue 75 Chase Road, London N14 4QY; 020 8886 0977; sps@liberaljudaism.org; www.sps.uk.com Wessex Liberal Jewish Group (Bournemouth) info@wessexliberaljudaism.org.uk; 01202 757084 West Central Liberal Synagogue 21 Maple Street, London W1T 4BE; 020 7636 7627; wcls@liberaljudaism.org; www.wcls.org.uk Woodford Liberal Synagogue Marlborough Road, London, E18 1AR; 020 8989 7619; info@ woodfordliberal.org.uk; www.woodfordliberal.org.uk

Bridge answer: After winning the first trick with the Ace of Diamonds, a hasty player simply draws all the trumps. But how to get across to dummy and play those three Club tricks is the problem. There’s a small chance that the Queen of Hearts will drop under the Ace and King – and when that doesn’t happen the third Heart is led, hoping that whoever wins it will be forced to lead a Club – but that also doesn’t happen and you go two down. Thinking should have started on trick one, when South shows out in trumps. As South made a pre-emptive bid in Diamonds he was ‘known’ to have at least seven of them – so when North led a Diamond it was clear that South had only six (as six could be seen in hand and dummy). But the important thing is that North has no more. So you simply draw a second trump and, foregoing the making of all 13 tricks, give up a trump trick to North – who then has to play either a Club or a Heart. A Club gives immediate access to three tricks – and a Heart is no better as either dummy takes the next trick (getting you to dummy) or, if South covers with the Queen of Hearts, you overtake with the King and have easy access to dummy.

Bedfordshire Progressive Synagogue (Rodef Shalom) 01234 218387; bedsps@liberaljudaism. org; www.bedfordshire-ps.org.uk Beit Klal Yisrael c/o The Montagu Centre, 21 Maple Street, London W1T 4BE; 07505 477459, bkymailing@gmail.com; www.bky.org.uk Bet Tikvah Synagogue 129 Perrymans Farm Road, Ilford, Essex IG2 7LX; 020 8554 9682; bttkv@liberaljudaism.org; bettikvah.blogspot.com Birmingham Progressive Synagogue 1 Roseland Way, Birmingham B15 1HD; 0121 634 3888; bps@liberaljudaism.org; www.bpsjudaism.com Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue 6 Lansdowne Road, Hove BN3 1FF; 01273 737223; bhps@liberaljudaism.org; www.brightonandhoveprosynagogue.org.uk Bristol and West Progressive Jewish Congregation 43-45 Bannerman Road, Easton, Bristol BS5 0RR bwpjc@liberaljudaism.org; www.bwpjc.org Crouch End Liberal Jewish Chavurah info@crouchendchavurah.co.uk; www.crouchendchavurah.co.uk Crawley Jewish Community 01293 534294 Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation PO Box 3059, Dublin 6, www.djpcireland.com; djpc@liberaljudaism.org Ealing Liberal Synagogue Lynton Avenue, Drayton Green, W13 0EB; 020 8997 0528; els@liberaljudaism. org; www.ealingliberalsynagogue.org.uk Eastbourne Progressive Jewish Congregation 01323 725650; fax: 01323 417645 epjc@liberaljudaism.org; www.epjcong.org.uk Edinburgh Liberal Jewish Community 0131 777 8024; info@eljc.org; www.eljc.org Finchley Progressive Synagogue Hutton Grove, N12 8DR; 020 8446 4063; fps@liberaljudaism.org; www.fps.org Gloucestershire Liberal Jewish Community Enquiries: 01242 609311 or 01242 231877; shalom@gljc.org.uk; www. gljc.org.uk Harrow and Wembley Progressive Synagogue 39 Bessborough Road, Harrow HA1 3BS; 020 8864 5323; hwps@liberaljudaism.org; www.hwps.org Herefordshire Jewish Community 01594 530721; hjc@liberaljudaism.org; www.herefordshirejc.org Kent Liberal Jewish Community 07952 242432; kljc@liberaljudaism.org; http://tinyurl.com/kentljc Kingston Liberal Synagogue Rushett Road, Long Ditton, Surbiton, Surrey; KT7 0UX; 020 8398 7400; kls@liberaljudaism.org; www.klsonline.org Leicester Progressive Jewish Congregation The Synagogue, 24 Avenue Road, LE2 3EA; lpjc@liberaljudaism.org The Liberal Jewish Synagogue 28 St John’s Wood Road, London NW8 7HA; 020 7286 5181; ljs@liberaljudaism.org; www.ljs.org