LJ Today January/February 2008

January/February 2008

VOL. XXXV No. 1

ljtoday

A constituent of the World Union for Progressive Judaism

Framework for choosing a Jewish life Jews have been offered a thoughtful framework with which to decide how, practically, they live their lives with Liberal Judaism’s publication of a new booklet.

Compelling Commitments, subtitled ‘A new approach to living as a Liberal Jew’, embodies the agenda put forward by the founders of the Liberal Jewish movement: that Judaism should progress to meet the challenges of the modern world, and that it should be marked by intellectual integrity.

Written by Rabbi Elizabeth Tikvah Sarah, of Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue, the booklet sets out three main commitments for Liberal Jews (see box, below). It then give examples of how to put these commitments into practice; these examples range from ‘visiting Jewish websites’ and ‘celebrating personal lifecycle moments in a Jewish context’ to ‘becoming an ethical shopper’ and ‘trying to make the most out of each day’.

At the booklet’s launch in December, Rabbi Danny Rich described it as ‘a serious contribution to discussion about Liberal Judaism’, which he was delighted that the movement was

Finishing touch Rabbi David Hulbert is supervised by sofer (scribe) Marc Michaels as he helps to complete Bet Tikvah publishing. Rabbi Sarah answered questions from the audience ranging from why God was the third, not first commitment, and whether listening to classical music was a ‘Jewish’ activity.

Is this the right path? Pages 6-7

The commitments: what Rabbi Tikvah Sarah says Compelling Commitments presents a new approach to Liberal Judaism as a way of life, with a view to galvanizing individuals into choosing to become committed Liberal Jews in the 21st century.

Commitment One Embracing Jewish teaching and engaging with knowledge in the wider world

Commitment Two Sustaining the Jewish community and repairing the world Commitment Three The Eternal is our God and the Eternal is One The future of Liberal Judaism depends on each and every one of us. I offer this as a framework for enabling individuals to embrace that challenge.

Synagogue’s new Sefer Torah. There was a party atmosphere at the Barkingside community as the scroll was paraded around the shul at the siyyum (completion ceremony) in November. Full story, page 2

Synagogue ready Handover of the new Birmingham Progressive Synagogue is imminent, with the construction project having been completed on time. Members touring the building have admired the floor-toceiling windows and lantern in the roof.

In time for Pesach, Page 5

New Kadimah site Machaneh Kadimah, Liberal Judaism’s prized summer camp, is moving to a larger, splendidly equipped venue in West Sussex, with tenpin bowling.

LJY-Netzer, page 11

Page 2 LJ Today

January/February 2008

David Forbes and Phyllis Alden describe how their two their communities, in east London and Manchester, acquired new Sifrei Torah the modern way

We needed a scroll so we did a search on eBay How many one-in-a-lifetime mitzvot can be fulfilled courtesy of the internet?

Not many, I would think. A decision by Bet Tikvah Synagogue to buy a Sefer Torah through online auction site eBay enabled six members of our community to carry out the 613th commandment: to write their own Torah scroll – or, at least, each to complete a letter.

How the synagogue, in Newbury Park, Essex, came to buy a Sefer Torah on an auction website is a tale of courage, daring, determination and faith. As a small community with limited finances, we knew we could not afford to commission the writing of a new Sefer Torah to replace the one that had been deemed pasul (no longer kosher). So asking a sofer (Torah scribe) to locate and buy a second-hand scroll was initially viewed as the only option.

But then we had another idea, which we pursued only as a frivolous diversion from the serious issue of raising funds for the purchase of a scroll via conventional channels. Although eBay promotes itself as ‘the world’s online

Harvey Manning (left) and Philip Aston hold chupah poles as Marc Michaels parades the scroll at Bet Tikvah Synagogue, Barkingside

marketplace’, we didn’t actually believe that we might find a Torah scroll for sale there. We entered the words ‘Sefer Torah’ into eBay’s search engine and the results revealed not just one on offer but several.

A swift decision was taken by Bet Tikvah’s chairman, Janice Feldman, to bid for a scroll in Israel, and responsibility for the transaction was handed over to Joe Swinburne, our community’s life president. Joe – who was very much a computing novice – soon became embroiled in an online bidding war, and was on the edge of his seat until the last second of the auction.

His excitement and relief at finding that he had won were soon followed by concern about the wisdom or otherwise

of buying a Sefer Torah unseen from eBay. The despatch of an international bank draft led to a further period of tension as we awaited delivery of the scroll. As it turned out, the scroll, which was advertised as being of Sephardi origin, 10 years old and in excellent condition, was not only exactly as described but also thought to be something of a bargain.

The seller was unhappy about sending a kosher scroll by post and so scratched off the final letter from the final word (Yisrael) of the Torah. He also, very thoughtfully, enclosed some kosher ink and a quill to replace the letter.

A communal celebration was subsequently organised to complete the Torah, with the rest of the word being removed so that six people in total would be able to fulfil the mitzvah. Marc Michaels, a qualified Torah scribe, and son of Rabbi Maurice Michaels, of South West Essex Reform Synagogue, kindly agreed to supervise the writing of the final word.

Welcoming the congregation on the day of the siyyum, Bet Tikvah’s Rabbi David Hulbert said: ‘This is a rare occasion because Torah scrolls usually last for many years. It may be another generation before this event takes place again at Bet Tikvah.’ A chupah, created by a tallit supported by four poles, was held aloft as the six honoured members of the synagogue were called on to add a letter, with the help of Marc Michaels’ steady guiding hand.

Then, with the scroll complete and the ink dry, the Sefer Torah was dressed and paraded around the synagogue.

Leading the singing and dancing, Marc ensured that the completion was a joyous, moving and memorable event.

David Forbes

Manchester celebrates its 4am winning bid Manchester Liberal Jewish Community has bought a Sefer Torah via the same website. It was presented to the congregation – the newest in the movement, now in its third year – at a service in November (Shabbat Vayetze).

Here, Phyllis Alden, who chairs the community, explains how it was acquired.

Now that we hold regular Shabbat morning services, we needed our own scroll. Our student rabbi, Judith Rosen Berry, suggested we hold a fundraiser

for a Sefer Torah. Then I received an email from Aron Sterk, our vice-chair, telling me he’d seen one on eBay. It was Sephardi in origin and came in its own case. It looked absolutely beautiful.

Rabbi Danny Rich [chief executive of Liberal Judaism], agreed to underwrite our purchase, so that we would pay the movement back when we had raised the funds. I got the job of bidding for it, a big responsibility.

James Eisen, our treasurer, taught me how to bid – waiting until the final 30

minutes of the auction. Bidding finished at 4am and after we’d won there was no way I could go back to sleep – I was far too excited.

Initially worried about what we’d done, I breathed a big sigh of relief when the scroll finally arrived, from Israel. It comes from a small mizrachi community that had shut down. The seller told us it was 150 years old and originally Dutch Sephardi (probably from the Hague). It’s in wonderful condition. My husband says it’s one of the clearest he’s seen.

LJ Today Page 3

January/February 2008

How we’re improving support for synagogues

by Danny Rich The Montagu Centre exists both as a headquarters building and as a focal point for Liberal Jewish activity but also as a centre for responding to the diverse and increasing needs of Liberal Judaism’s constituents. What is offered and how it is delivered is under constant review.

The recent retirement of Monique Blake after more than 20 years’ service to Liberal Judaism and the return of Elvira Museri to Argentina – coupled with the impending resignation of Rabbi Aaron Goldstein when he succeeds his father as senior rabbi at Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue – give a further opportunity to review what the Montagu Centre does in providing for Liberal Judaism’s constituents, and to propose to the Officers a new staffing structure, the purpose of which is to enhance support to Liberal Judaism constituents in the most efficient, costeffective manner possible.

Accordingly, from January the Montagu Centre staff and activities will be divided into two areas: internal services and community services. Both teams will be headed by a senior manager and supported by a full-time administrator.

The new head of internal services will be responsible for the smooth running of

the Montagu Centre including its IT, finance and human resources policies, and caretaking, cleaning and maintenance needs. S/he will also administer conversions, ketubot and lifecycle enquiries, the funeral scheme and the cemeteries at Edgwarebury and Cheshunt, and publications.

The head of community services will manage those functions and staffing whose work will frequently take place away from the Montagu Centre, in congregations. Community services includes: LJY-Netzer and youth club development, students and young adults, rabbinic support and new communities, and education and social action.

We expect the head of internal services and the two administrators to begin work in early 2008, when they will be complemented by a new full-time PA to the chief executive. The new head of community services will be recruited in the spring, to work alongside Aaron before his move in July.

Change is not always easy – and is unsettling for the existing Liberal Judaism staff - but they and I are committed to providing good quality and responsive services to constituents.

If you have any concerns please do not hesitate to call me on 020 7631 9835 or e-mail me at d.rich@liberaljudaism.org.

Farewell to Monique and Elvira, page 4

Community Tour of Israel: 4-14 May 2008

Hat trick at Jewish media awards

Organised by Liberal Judaism and Birmingham Progressive Synagogue Come and celebrate Israel ’s 60th anniversary (8 May) in Israel!

Also: share Shabbat with a Progressive community; take in the beauty of the north; explore coexistence initiatives; meet a Palestinian journalist; sunbathe on Tel Aviv’s beach – and spend an optional day in Petra (£75).

The 10-day trip is £920 including flight and half-board accommodation.

For a full itinerary or to book, contact: shlicha@ liberaljudaism.org

Liberal Jewish communities and the Montagu Centre scooped three awards between them at the Board of Deputies’ Jewish Community Media Awards.

The Lincolnshire Jewish Community came first in the newsletters from small congregations category. A delighted Steve Griffiths, secretary of the LJC, paid tribute to editor Allan Levene, adding: ‘We always knew our newsletter was quite out of the ordinary for such a small and distant community.’

Alonim, published by the Bristol & West congregation and edited by Judith Lazarus, was runner-up in the synagogue newsletter category, and LJ Today, published by the Montagu Centre, came third in the community newsletter category.

Around the Communities South London At the fourth John Rich Memorial Day, a lively debate covered subjects from belief in God to ‘coffeebar Judaism’ and the future of Liberal Jewish liturgy and synagogues.

The LJS Michael Berkowitz, professor of modern Jewish history at University College London, was guest preacher at a service in November to mark the 90th anniversary of the Balfour declaration.

Kingston If the synagogue’s clapometer is anything to go by, the standard at Kingston’s Variety Show, part of its 40th Anniversary celebrations, was extremely high. The performing artists ranged from the very young to the slightly older ‘Zimmel Choir’.

NLPJC The community hosted a talk

by Dr Richard Stone about his work with Alif-Aleph and Salaam-Shalom.

Northwood visits Lincoln Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein led a group of pupils from Northwood and Pinner on a visit to Lincoln. The Liberal community there has grown so much that there was no room for all the visitors to join the Shabbat morning service in the historic synagogue (thought to date back to before 1290).

So the NPLS group were welcomed to the synagogue in the afternoon and Rabbi Goldstein led Mincha, read from the Torah and ended Shabbat with Havdalah before his group returned home. This was perhaps the first Shabbat Mincha in Lincoln since the Jews were expelled in circa 1290. _______________________________

Partygoers at the Chanukkah Soiree hosted by ‘tent: the meeting place’ and West London Synagogue. More than 160 young adults played at a chocolate casino, enjoyed a live band and ate Yemenite doughnuts, created by guest celebrity chef Gil Hovav

January/February 2008

Page 4 LJ Today

After 21 years, Monique bows out from the Montagu Centre It was 1961 when newlyweds – and newly arrived in Britain from Rhodesia – Monique and David Blake were recommended to join Huganu, a young adults group at the (then) Wembley Liberal Synagogue. Little did they know that this was to lead to Monique eventually working for 21 years for the Liberal Jewish movement.

At Huganu, they made a number of firm friends, among them Rosita and Stanley Rosenberg. It was in 1986, when Rosita was administrative director of ULPS (now Liberal Judaism), that she asked Monique if she would come to work at ULPS as her secretary/PA. ‘I’ll try it for three months,’ said Monique, worried that it would be difficult to work with and for a friend. Now starting a well-earned retirement, Monique can look back on rather more than three months – in fact on 21 years.

Monique not only worked with Rosita until her retirement in 1997, but with Rosita’s successor as executive director, Rabbi Dr Charles Middleburgh; with current chief executive Rabbi Danny Rich; and as a key part of the Outreach team with Rabbi Aaron Goldstein. She has combined this latter role with special projects, such as the organisation of the annual David Goldstein lecture.

Throughout her career at ULPS/Liberal Judaism, she has been national proselyte administrator, adding a personal touch to the paperwork by welcoming those who come nervously to meet the Rabbinic Board, with a friendly word and a cup of

The essential guide to Liberal Judaism Liberal Judaism: A Judaism for the Twenty-First Century is a clear, reader-friendly account of the Liberal Jewish view of Judaism, by ‘Radio 2 rabbi’ Pete Tobias, rabbi of The Liberal Synagogue Elstree.

To buy your copy, send a cheque, payable to Liberal Judaism, for £9.99 to: The Montagu Centre, 21 Maple St, London W1T 4BE

Monique Blake: her personal touch will be missed

coffee. Indeed, there is so much at the Montagu Centre that Monique has put her hand to, including the administration of many Biennials, organising ‘drop in’ weekends at potential new congregations, the Centenary service, publicising events and even sometimes catering for hungry members of the Rabbinic Conference.

In her own congregation, the Liberal Synagogue Elstree, Monique was honorary secretary in its formative years and has sung in its choir. David and Monique have two sons, Laurence and Kevin, who, with daughters-in law Tracy and Ingrid and four grandchildren are members of Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue.

Monique will be missed by all those who have encountered her warm voice and friendly smile and who have relied on her knowledge of and love for the movement that she and her family have taken to their hearts.

Farewell, Elvira Elvira Museri, unflappable head of services at Liberal Judaism and unofficial Argentine envoy to the movement, left in December to go travelling. Elvira says she will miss everyone but hopes to keep in touch.

Siddur reprinted Owing to its huge popularly, Siddur Lev Chadash has had a third reprint.

The opportunity was taken to correct a few mistakes and thanks are due to Rabbis Andrew Goldstein and Harry Jacobi, Ann Kirk and Dr Eric Friedland.

Thanks also go to Selina O’Dwyer for managing the project.

Patrons hear of further progress Stanley Fink, chairman of Liberal Judaism’s Council of Patrons, hosted a third reception in October during which Patrons heard reports on progress made during the past year.

Rabbi Danny Rich reported that money had been used in three main areas: to support Liberal Judaism in taking the lead in paying tribute to victims of the Armenian Genocide, while other movements refuse to do so; to fund a new education website and make Liberal Judaism’s religion school curriculum available to all communities; and to develop Liberal Judaism’s young adults, ‘tent’ and community development work.

In a speech, Student rabbi Sandra Kviat, from Denmark, who is working mainly with Liberal Judaism’s ‘tent’ community, spoke about the warm welcome she experienced from ‘tentniks’ when she arrived in Britain.

‘tent’ at 4,400ft A group of young adults from ‘tent: the meeting place’ is hoping to climb Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak, on 1 March.

The aim is to raise money for the MakeA-Wish Foundation (www.make-a-wish. org.uk), which grants wishes to children fighting life-threatening illnesses. If you’re interested in joining the climb, contact Trudy Sargent on 07961 375619 or email trudy@redpictures.co.uk.

For those who prefer suntanned shoulders to frostbitten toes, a ‘tent’ trip to Spain is being planned for July. Contact Avivit, Liberal Judaism’s young adults worker: a.katzil@liberaljudaism.org.

Lift your spirit at the LJS Friends of Progressive Judaism presents ‘Music and Song to Soothe the Soul and Lift the Spirit’, on Sunday 13 April, 7.30pm at the LJS. Tickets £25. Enquiries to Jane Greenfield: 020 8440 3538.

Kvestion time Liberal Judaism’s annual intersynagogue quiz is to be held on Sunday 1 June, 3 for 3.30 pm. It will be hosted by the Liberal Jewish Synagague following their triumph in last year’s fiendishly tough contest at Harrow and Wembley.

LJ Today Page 5

January/February 2008

New building ready by Pesach Henry Cohn reports on the near-completion of Birmingham’s synagogue, which will also house the Midlands Centre for Liberal Judaism In February, Birmingham Progressive Synagogue (Shaarei Tikvah) expects to take possession of its synagogue and community centre in Bishopsgate Street.

The building should be fully operational by Pesach and plans are under way for an inaugural service and other celebrations in the summer and autumn of 2008, some 70 years after the opening of its former much-loved synagogue in nearby Sheepcote Street.

Ten members who recently toured the site expressed satisfaction that the building will fulfil admirably the functions envisaged in plans developed by the architectural practice of the chairman, Keith Reynolds.

The sanctuary on the second floor will be flooded with natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows and a lantern in the roof. Chosen by the synagogue membership after open competition, the design of the bimah and ark by London architect Hilary Clayton-Mitchell will add to the ‘wow’ factor. Simone and Paul Bloom will supply the Torah mantles and silver candlesticks, and Mila Griebel the Ner Tamid, all of modern design. Professor Tony Travis of Birmingham, international authority on synagogue architecture, provided

valuable advice throughout.

Alongside a fullyequipped function room, classrooms, library, offices, and small sanctuary, there will be a youth centre for the equipping of which the younger members of the community will be responsible.

The Midlands Centre for Liberal Judaism will take up residence in the new building, where Jews of all persuasions from the The synagogue and community centre, on Bishopsgate Street, will have region will be encouraged its sanctuary on the second floor, with natural light from floor to ceiling to meet for study, cultural and social events. Liberal building, ‘to make our new house a Judaism will base one of its development home’. Copies of the illustrated brochure officers in this centrally situated location, easily accessible by all forms of may be obtained from the Administrator on 0121 446 5273 or by email to office@ transport. Jews of the Midlands will be bps-pro-syn.co.uk. Rabbi Dr Margaret enabled to increase their contribution to Jacobi of Birmingham and Rabbi Danny interfaith dialogue in a city rightly proud Rich have lent their support to the of its multi-cultural role. project, quoting Rabbi Tarfon: ‘You are not BPS has launched an appeal, L’dor required to complete the task but neither Vador (From Generation to Generation), are you at liberty to abstain from it’. to its members and well-wishers for A woman of worth, page 9 £200,000 to furnish and equip the

Spurred into action by email We have had positive feedback on the Cheshvan Month of Social Action. People really liked LJ Social Action’s emails and found the links to actions clear and easy to use. Here are some of the comments we received: ‘We had very good attendance at our social action service, which has sparked interest in involvement of the congregation as a whole’ ‘I sent off a number of emails to ministers’ ‘Extremely useful and informative’ ‘A brilliant idea’ Did you find the emails useful? Did you act on them? Do let us know.

If you would like to sign up to the LJ Social Action email list and continue to

receive emailings – and we promise we will not bombard you – do contact us at the Montagu Centre.

As LJ Today goes to print, the LJ Social Action webpage is being redesigned. You will see four areas of action, which will lead you into resources, debate and campaigns. Please let us know what you are doing in your congregation, with reports and diary dates, so that we can share our work and inspire each other.

We are also updating our co-ordinators list. If you would like to be involved with LJ Social Action in your congregation or at the Montagu Centre please contact us at socialaction@liberaljudaism.org and we will put you in touch with your LJ Social Action co-ordinator and keep you up to date with what is happening.

Elsbeth Mendes da Costa

Feeling creative?

Come to Biennial This year’s Biennial theme, Creation and Creativity, has generated exciting speakers, a musician-in-residence (Judith Silver) and a wide range of exciting workshops led by a number of our movement’s rabbis as well as members of our communities. It promises to be an exciting and stimulating weekend.

We will also be holding an early celebration of Israel’s 60th Anniversary.

Do take advantage of the early bird booking period, which runs until 31 January, to get the best rates.

Biennial takes place at the superb Tortworth Court Hotel, Wotton-underEdge, near Bristol, from 4 to 6 April 2008. Pick up a booking form from your community, look it up at: www.liberal judaism.org/biennial or email m.beral@ liberaljudaism.org.

Page 6 LJ Today

LIVING AS A LIBERAL JEW

January/February 2008

Is this the right path

LJ Today asks eight people for their response to Rabbi Sarah’s framework for RUTH SEAGER Woodford Liberal Synagogue I completely agreed with the development of Rabbi Tikvah Sarah’s argument that Liberal Judaism is rooted in the principle of informed choice and with the issue about individuals who would make choices that weren’t ‘Jewish’. Personally, I would extend that to the problem of individuals who make choices that aren’t specifically ‘Liberal Jewish’. A framework within which to make the decisions might seem to set sensible boundaries for the decision-making process.

However, I didn’t agree with all the compelling commitments that were

RABBI SHULAMIT AMBALU North London Progressive Rabbi Sarah discusses the central importance of personal informed choice in the religious practice of progressive Jews.

She says: ‘On the one hand there are God’s commands – the preserve of the Orthodox…On the other hand there is “personal choice” – the privilege of the progressive Jew…but what does “personal choice” mean? ... What impels me to perform this ritual and not that one?’

I am very glad that Rabbi Sarah’s work is now available for a wider readership, but would urge anyone interested in how she gets to grips with these questions also to read her article Compelling Commitments, in Aspects of Liberal Judaism, edited by David Goldberg and

ORLANDO DE LANGE LJY-Netzer graduate I had three questions. What is this publication’s purpose? I think to tackle the confusion individual Jews often feel about what their beliefs tell them about how to live their lives, a confusion that shows that there is some need for this guide.

Second, does it say anything new? The commitments it enumerates have been the fundamental beliefs of Liberal Judaism arguably from its inception. But

listed. Who wouldn’t concur with the importance of studying Jewish teaching and with sustaining the community? In contrast, the commitment about God jarred with me.

I think that belief in God is a personal matter, that it is irrelevant to influencing how we should behave and thus none of anyone else’s business. Instead, I would have emphasised the elimination of idolworship – which I see creeping into our synagogues in the form of elaborate bar mitzvah performances and the kissing of Torah scrolls – the imperative of treating men and women equally; and I would have added a few words about the importance of breastfeeding alongside buying Fairtrade produce.

Edward Kessler, or ‘Bridging Choice and Command’ in Manna, winter 2003.

In all three places, Rabbi Sarah works out her theology of the drive to action that results from a sense of inner compulsion, that rests entirely and uniquely within each individual. This work is helpful, since she engages so honestly with our contemporary reality.

I particularly enjoyed the theological parts of this booklet. But there is also something profoundly worrying here.

Must Jewish experience be turned into a sort of menu? How can we retrieve the passion, that is ‘in our mouth and in our hearts’ (Deut 30:14) that will truly fuel our desire to make our choices Jewish ones?

Rabbi Sarah’s focus on the interplay between inner drives and external frameworks creates the setting for thinking about this crucial question. what Liberal Judaism has always shied away from is anything resembling commandment. Perhaps it is time for us to admit that individual autonomy can be complemented by appropriate guidance.

Finally, is it helpful? If the Liberal Jewish community engages with it on a large scale then it could instigate real dialogue and change. Still, this publication should not be treated as divine decree. So whatever comes from engagement with it may not be what Rabbi Sarah had in mind, but will certainly keep Liberal Judaism changing and developing in the 21st century.

MIRIAM HALAMHY Finchley Progressive Synagogue Why would a rabbi move God from position one to position three or her commitments?

Is God no longer central to the lives of Liberal Jews? Or is Rabbi Sarah making a statement about the relationship between Judaism and God which sits more comfortably in the 21st century?

The three commitments emphasise that the spirit of Liberal Judaism is about ‘individuals making informed choices’, and that as Jews we are expected to make firm, committed, choices. These choices are presented as a list of statements, from studying Torah through attending Jewish cultural events, recycling, prayer, listening to the ‘still small voice’ inside ourselves and making the most of each day. As I read

MARJORIE EPSON Leicester Progressive On reading this booklet I considered whether I felt I needed a new approach to Liberal Judaism as a way of life. If asked, I would have described myself as content, wanting to do my bit, yes, but not disconcerted that I should be doing more. However, I could not stop myself using the practical examples given for each commitment as a checklist, wanting to see whether I measured up.

For me, the commitments answered a question I wasn’t aware I wanted to ask.

And do I accept the commitments?

Well yes, there wasn’t much to disagree

TONY SAMUEL Oxford Jewish Community As it says in our machzor, ‘Did God choose us? Or did we choose God? Or did God choose us because we chose God?’ Choice is at the core of Rabbi Sarah’s booklet. Her ‘commitments’ are well stated, with excellent brief suggestions on how to fulfil them through research and action. But do they amount to ‘compelling’ commitments?

‘Compel’ is derived from Latin pellere,

LIVING AS A LIBERAL JEW

January/February 2008

for Liberal Jews?

LJ Today Page 7

a Jewish life, in which each person makes three ‘compelling commitments’ through this inspiring list my response was, hey, I can do this, and whoah, I already do some of it.

But don’t be fooled. There’s a lifetime’s work here. The three commitments present serious yet achievable goals to the modern Liberal Jew. I challenge any Jew to assert that he or she is already tackling convincingly every part of them, from ‘becoming familiar with the key sources of Jewish teaching’, to ‘finding out about other people’s faiths and religions’.

In commitment three, the penultimate statement reads: ‘Endeavouring to treat ourselves and everyone we meet as individual images of the Divine.’ God may not appear on mountains for me, in clouds of smoke, but I am happy to listen to the still small voice inside me and regard humanity in a Divine light. For me, as a Liberal Jew, Rabbi Sarah has placed God in the correct position. with and I was surprised by the breadth of each commitment as illustrated by the examples. I would argue that the examples are unbalanced in areas – where is the specific reference to treasuring the older members of our communities? – but I suspect we would all produce a different list.

Compelling Commitments is aimed both at those involved in Liberal Judaism and those who aren’t. I hope that those who say they are ‘not really very Jewish’ might see Jews in terms of what they do rather than what they don’t do. And if our children grow up with a Judaism that is broad, and flexible around lifecycle demands, then they won’t ‘come back’, they will feel as if they hadn’t gone away. ‘to drive’. Are we ‘in the driving seat’ – there by our own free choice? Or is there an external pressure, indeed a ‘commandment’ at the heart of Judaism? Rabbi Sarah’s book points clearly to the former – our informed choice bringing us enlightenment.

Somehow the phrase ‘compelling commitment’, however, suggests to me an external pressure to follow our faith.

As Liberal Jews we yearn for our own free-willed commitment to prevail. But sometimes we need an external prod and reminder to ensure a result.

RABBI DAVID GOLDBERG The Liberal Jewish Synagogue The task Rabbi Sarah sees facing us today, as we seek to lead Jewish lives that are neither unquestioningly rooted in the mitzvot of Rabbinic Judaism nor totally convinced by classical Liberal Judaism’s guiding principle of informed choice, is how to construct the framework for a dynamic Liberal Judaism that ‘places’ us both in relation to our Jewish past and to confronting the complex challenges of modern life.

Where in the past our movement produced several ‘guides’ or ‘outlines’ or ‘affirmations’, rather in the manner of the prophet Micah reducing the 613 commandments of the Torah to just three, Rabbi Sarah identifies three ‘compelling commitments’ that go to the heart of contemporary Liberal Judaism.

Many of her examples of how to fulfil these commitments are all well and good, but these desiderata sound more like ‘laudable aspirations’ than ‘compelling commitments’, components

NOA MAROM Liberal Judaism’s shlicha I feel that Compelling Commitments puts too much emphasis on the Middle East conflict. Israel has much more to offer than bad news, particularly to Liberal Jews in the country’s 60th anniversary year.

An unfortunate equation already exists in the minds of far too many Jews and non-Jews: Israel = the situation/conflict/ matzav. If Liberal Jews equate Israel with conflict, they will fail to support Progressive Judaism in Israel. The situation of Progressive Judaism in

of a Jewish citizenship test rather than an attempt to confront Judaism’s fundamental demand: ‘And now, O1 Israel, what does the Eternal One your God require of you?’ And when, without explanation, Rabbi Sarah posits as an example of embracing Jewish teaching ‘praying the morning service in a tallit and t’fillin’, the unreconstructed Liberal Jew in me responded, ‘Er, pardon me?’

The third, and briefest, commitment is likely to prove the least helpful and most controversial. Controversial, because it says nothing about a modern understanding of God for the vast majority of worshippers who no longer believe in the biblical deity. And unhelpful, because it asks us to work together with all peoples of the world to acknowledge that the Eternal is One, without taking into account that at least half of the world’s population – Buddhists and Hindus for starters – have no conception of what the monotheistic religions mean when they use the word ‘God’.

These criticisms apart, I commend this as a useful guide to trying to lead a Liberal Jewish life today.

Israel is tenuous at best. If Liberal Jews don’t look beyond the matsav in their summation of Israel then the relationship between Israel and the Diaspora will continue to be dominated by the Orthodox establishment. What then of Progressive Judaism in Israel?

And what then of peace?

I appreciate that Rabbi Sarah acknowledges as important that individual Jews explore modern as well as Biblical Hebrew and that the LJYNetzer youth movement is associated with the international Zionist movement Netzer Olami. But I believe that a fairer and broader consideration is needed to provide a balanced view of Israel.

Do you have something to add to the debate? We want your ideas about how to live a Liberal Jewish life. Send them to: ljtodayeditor@liberaljudaism.org or write to the editor at The Montagu Centre, 21 Maple Street, London W1T 4BE. Please mention the community with which you are associated.  Compelling Commitments is available free from congregations and the Montagu Centre.

January/February 2008

Page 8 LJ Today

Education news ..... from Judy Thwaites Liberal Judaism Curriculum The new term’s lessons – nine plans in all, at levels 1 and 2 – are now available online at www.curriculum.liberaljudaism. org. Email me for a user name and password to access these great lessons.

Israel through different eyes My four children all experienced Israel tour at the age of 15. I was a late starter, going on my first tour when I was nearly 50 (though we had visited as tourists).

The benefit, on a personal and professional level, that I have received from educational tours organised by Leo Baeck College and Liberal Judaism is just as valuable as it was to my children.

These tours show an Israel you do not see as a tourist. You can meet Israelis and understand better the challenges of their everyday lives; sense the history of our religion and culture by connecting with the land of the Bible; or dive into the hustle and bustle of modern city life.

I am thrilled that Liberal Judaism is offering the first teachers’ enrichment seminar to Israel from 25 March to 2 April. There are only a few spaces left so do not hesitate – contact me now.

Hebrew reading In the autumn of 2007 Liberal Judaism took a group of 10-13-year-olds away for a weekend of study and fun at a retreat in Hertfordshire. We interspersed LJYNetzer informal services and activities with hour-long Hebrew reading sessions. It was so successful that we want to run another one, but we need the help of teachers or assistants from Liberal communities. Do contact me if you are interested. Alternatively we can help you run a course at your synagogue.

In the meantime, Rabbi Aaron Goldstein is running a weekend course at Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue from 14 to 16 March. We may be able to organise host-family accommodation for those who need it. Details from a.goldstein @liberaljudaism.org or from me.

Liberal Judaism Yom Chinuch This Israel-themed extravaganza for Religion School teachers and pupils of all ages will take place at the Liberal Jewish Synagogue on Sunday 15 June.

Save the date! j.thwaites@liberaljudaism.org or telephone 020 7631 9824

A member of the family

by Uri Regev On several of my visits to Britain, I have noticed how often people are amazed to learn that Progressive streams of Judaism are alive and well in parts of the world they least imagined – Berlin, Prague, Moscow, Buenos Aires, Johannesburg and Mumbai, among others. Many are equally surprised to learn that Israel itself is now home to a strong and growing Progressive movement.

Nevertheless, despite the devastating history of the past century and geographic remoteness, hundreds of Progressive Jewish communities have either survived or are being reborn and nurtured throughout the Diaspora. These communities are all part of the World Union for Progressive Judaism, the international umbrella organisation of all the liberal Jewish movements, which is today 1.7 million members strong, with 1,200 congregations in 42 countries.

In fact, Liberal Judaism has a longstanding association with the World Union since its founding days in the late 1920s, when Lily Montagu served as its honorary secretary. The mandate of the newly formed organisation was to unite into a permanent union the

Progressive Jewish movements already in existence in various countries of the world, and to establish a presence wherever there were Jewish communities prepared and committed to undertake such a challenge.

We have both suffered and accomplished a great deal since then, and it is my pleasure and honour to begin a series of articles in LJ Today that allows me to share with you the development of the World Union family – of which you all are members.

In the meantime, and to become better acquainted, I invite you to visit us on the web at www.wupj.org, where you can learn more about our regions worldwide and sign up for our own newsletter, the WUPJnews, to arrive in your email inbox each week on Thursday.

I look forward to deepening the connections between Liberal Judaism and the World Union, and welcome any questions or comments you may have.

Until next time, l’hitraot from Jerusalem.

Rabbi Uri Regev is president of the World Union for Progressive Judaism

Reunion tribute to Mike Guter More than 50 years ago, under the caring but firm leadership of Mike Guter, scores of teenage children of members of the Wembley Liberal Synagogue were welded into a highly successful youth club, which ran for years in both Junior and Senior Section sections. In the 1960s, many of these members, then in their twenties, also formed Huganu (‘our circle’), and drew in new members.

Friendships made then have continued over the decades. Some club members married each other; the spouses of others were made welcome.

In 1979, the first weekend youth club reunion was held, and these have continued every five years – latterly every three years - since. The latest of these was held at Ide, Devon, in October and attracted nearly 50 participants for a hectic programme of activities, including a visit to the historic synagogue in

Exeter. A special issue of The Preston Natter, the old youth club magazine, had been prepared for the occasion by Lindy Adams. Participants came from the Costa Blanca, Norwich and Devon, as well as from the north-west London area.

What a good job Mike Guter did!

Among those present were two vicepresidents of Liberal Judaism, a longserving member of the Montagu Centre staff, the current chairman and three past chairmen of Harrow and Wembley, two past chairmen at Elstree, a past chairman of Northwood and Pinner, the parents of a rabbi and the brother of another. At kiddush on Friday night, Paul Zatz paid tribute to Mike, whose death at 89 had occurred weeks previously.

The reunion was organised by Robert Gellman, Harry Hurst, Richard Yoffey and Paul Zatz.

Rosita Rosenberg

LJ Today Page 9

January/February 2008

A woman of worth

Mila in her studio. She was told she would ‘never make a living’ with Judaica

Mila Tanya Griebel’s work stems to a large extent from her own background.

Her father’s side of the family were refugees and, as she grew up, she came across few Jewish ritual objects. ‘I became interested in why when we looked around in the family we had so little Judaica – it was left in Poland or sold off to get people out.’

She studied at Middlesex University before doing a degree in metalwork and jewellery at the Royal College of Art, where she was told sternly that she would ‘never make a living’ with Judaica.

Ignoring those warnings, she began to look at what contemporary work was being produced and recalls: ‘I could see some really interesting things happening in America, a few interesting things happening in Israel and absolutely nothing happening in England.’

Disappointed at the lack of creative

Silversmith Mila Griebel is valued for her work in Liberal synagogues. But she also creates stunning pieces for personal use. By Beatrice Sayers

pieces being made in Britain at the time, Mila set about developing her own style.

Her approach was to consider as a starting point the purpose of an object and how it is used.

She recalls how she began making her first mezuzahs: ‘My mother was decorating, and she was moaning about having to paint over the mezuzahs because she couldn’t get them off. I started looking at mezuzahs that you could easily check but also that could be interesting items in themselves.’

Some of her mezuzahs have a backplate that attaches to the wall, with an easily removable tube at the front holding the scroll. Prompted by the idea of touching the mezuzah on entering and leaving, she has given other cases tiny decorations dangling from the bottom.

Mila particularly likes asking the question what makes an object Jewish.

Clockwise from below: an etrog box, now in the Jewish Museum, London; a lion yad, privately commissioned for a barmitzvah boy named Leo; mezuzahs designed as abstractions of the letter shin; flame rimonim for Finchley Progressive Synagogue; wedding rings, celebrating the creation of a new home

‘Is it the function? Do you need to put a Star of David on it to make it a Jewish item?’ she asks. While there are rules governing aspects of some ritual objects, most of the time an artist–silversmith has a free hand to create a piece that is both useful and decorative.

Mila loves Hebrew lettering and has incorporated it into much of her work, notably in her etrog boxes, one of which is in the collection of the Jewish Museum in London. Her other museum work includes pieces for the Temple Judea Museum in Philadelphia, in the United States, which has commissioned a piece from her in each of the past four years.

Mila was brought up at the Liberal Jewish Synagogue, where her parents were married, and several synagogues in the movement have commissioned work from her, including Elstree, South London and Beit Klal Yisrael. She made the brass ark doors and ner tamid in use at Northwood and a pair of rimonim for Finchley. Her Etz Chaim (Tree of Life) memorial, playfully decorated with fruit and animals, was installed at the Montagu Centre in 2003. She also made the mezuzah at the entrance to the premises.

Most recently, Mila, in partnership with an architect, has won a competition to design the interior for Birmingham Progressive’s new synagogue building.

So much for the art college warnings.

Not content with making a living, Mila has, over the past 20 years, made a name for herself as a leading designer– maker of contemporary Judaica. More importantly, she has taken to heart the ancient principle of hiddur mitzvah (beautifying the commandment).

Mila Tanya Griebel: www.artsend.co.uk

January/February 2008

Page 10 LJ Today

The secrets of attraction FOR THE LIBRARY

RETHINKING SYNAGOGUES: A new vocabulary for congregational life Lawrence A Hoffman, Jewish Lights Publishing, 2006 Review by AARON GOLDSTEIN

Some would argue that American and British societies have little in common, especially where religion is concerned, the USA experiencing continued growth of religion and spirituality while in the UK the secular is dominant. Having studied and worked among North American Jewry for a year, I know that one cannot assume that what works in the States will work here. But the success of ‘tent: the meeting place’, unashamedly based on Tze’irim, the phenomenon for young adults at BJ (Congregation B’nai Jeshurun, Manhattan), shows what we can learn.

This book can help us to think about our own situation. Indeed, Hoffman says he wants it to ‘fuel public debate about synagogue life’. For a decade, Hoffman has been the pioneer of Synagogue 2000, an unaffiliated body now known as Synagogue 3000 (a sign of its success), which supported willing synagogues

from across the denominations in the task of transforming themselves.

Crucially, Hoffman’s concern is not with criticising anything that has come before but with what the synagogue needs to do to transform itself if it is to appeal to the next generation. He suggests that: ‘Synagogues change the conversation when they go from programmes (what we do) to ideas (why we do it); from pragmatic (what works) to theology (what counts); from regulative rules (tinkering with the surface) to constitutive rules (building a deep foundation); and from additive change (programme change that reacts to the newest perceived need) to transformative change (structural change that responds to the deepest theological considerations).’

He sees the synagogue of the future as a ‘sacred community: a place where relationships, agenda, activity, debate – everything – are swept along by the

recognition of God’s reality’. Most controversially, there is the idea that we cannot buck the trend of an ever more individualised society; we just need to understand it better.

Instead of informing potential new members about membership fees, we ask them about their skills and interests.

This enables them to connect with people with whom they are most likely to form supportive networks. Ultimately, ‘Synagogues with spiritual responses to human joys and crises will become addresses to which Generation X will be drawn.’

I recommend this book to all those interested in the future of our synagogues so that we can at least begin the process of helping to make each synagogue one of those addresses.

Rabbi Aaron Goldstein is head of community development at Liberal Judaism

Construction project we don’t need THE HOME WE BUILD TOGETHER: Recreating Society Jonathan Sacks, Continuum, 2007, £16.99 Review by PETE TOBIAS There is a scene in Monty Python’s Life of Brian where the reluctant ‘messiah’ tells his audience that they must think for themselves and not believe what everyone else tells them. ‘You’re all individuals!’ he exclaims. ‘Yes,’ the crowd responds, with one voice, ‘we’re all individuals!’ ‘I’m not,’ says one.

The paradoxical relationship between the individual and society is one of many modern contradictions bemoaned by Jonathan Sacks in The Home We Build Together. He claims to be defending liberal democracy while systematically criticising it and predicting its imminent demise from causes ranging from moral decline and the break-up of the family to satellite communications and the internet.

‘Liberal societies cannot be built on the assumption that everyone within them is liberal,’ he writes. ‘I am not.’

While arguing that liberal democracy is ‘the best system yet devised to allow different groups of people with strong, and strongly clashing, beliefs to live together’, the Chief Rabbi of one such group, the United Hebrew Congregations

of the Commonwealth, suggests that freedom of choice in our current liberal society is forcing people to turn to ‘highly non-liberal religious identities’.

Sacks offers different models for how multicultural societies are built. The first two are the ‘country house’ – where minority groups are welcomed but only as guests who are expected to assimilate, and the ‘hotel’, where each group occupies its own room and keeps its identity but there is no genuine integration. His third, society as ‘the home we build together’, suggests we must all share in the construction of a truly multicultural society.

This third possibility is based on the biblical idea of covenant: shared values that encourage ‘a relationship of trust’. It is a metaphor that, although initially attractive insofar as it appeals to humanity’s potential for goodness, on which all religions were once based, fails to stand up to scrutiny. The covenant between the Israelite people and God in the Torah, as laid out in Deuteronomy, is based more on threat than trust (chapter

28, for example). This is just one of many contradictions that litter the book. And when it comes to providing examples of how this covenant can be implemented, the book is sadly short on substance, suggesting a Britain Day, community weeks, and holding up the scene from the 1985 film Witness in which the Amish community builds a barn together, as an example to sustain the thesis of his book.

Sacks emphasises the need for the different elements of our multicultural society to work ‘side by side’ so that our common values are affirmed. Religious leaders have a major responsibility for this, he says. Apparently forgetting that many Jewish community leaders are already at the forefront of such efforts, he adds vaguely that: ‘We are about to begin a training programme in the Jewish community.’

Presumably, in order to need such a programme, one has to be as despondent about the state of our multicultural society as the author of this book. I am not.

Pete Tobias is rabbi of The Liberal Synagogue Elstree

LJ Today Page 11

January/February 2008

LJY-Netzer is the youth movement of Liberal Judaism. It provides an opportunity for young people to develop a strong Progressive Jewish identity whilst enjoying friendships and having fun

Kadimah moves to sunny West Sussex!

Since 1971 young people have laughed, learned, played endless games of table tennis, had a hand at ‘bimbling’, danced in the disco, performed on the last night show and had the life-changing experience that is Kadimah.

Though over time the faces have changed as generation after generation enjoy two fun-filled weeks, and the name has adapted since its initial incarnation as ‘Kadimah Holiday School’ to Machaneh Kadimah (literally ‘camp onwards’) Kadimah remains, in this its 37th year, the ultimate place to be for anyone aged eight to 15 who wants a fun Liberal Jewish experience.

This year Machaneh Kadimah is being advertised as our ‘Funky fresh summer thing’, but what’s funky and fresh? Well, we are moving to a brand new home,

Cottesmore School in West Sussex.

Our move means that more young people will be able to benefit from our summer camp craziness. Although places are filling up fast this year we hope to take more people than ever on Machaneh Kadimah.

Cottesmore School not only hosts a 20-metre indoor pool, but ample outdoor space and pitches for what seems like every sport going, mini-golf, an indoor theatre and drama studio, an art room with a beautiful panoramic view and even tenpin bowling!

The dates are 27 July to 10 August. If you’ve not yet signed up for what will definitely be the best Kadimah yet, then hurry up as places are filling fast. You can find a brochure and application form at www.liberaljudaism.org, click on

If only every day could be a Yom LJY-Netzer LJY-Netzer’s new madrichim (leaders) took over The Liberal Synagogue Elstree for a day to run a fun-filled LJY-Netzer extravaganza.

Everyone involved in the day, both madrichim, chanichim (participants) and movement workers got a chance to learn about what LJY-Netzer is and what we do through games, creative activities, arts and craft and music.

All sessions were written by the new madrichim whose energy rubbed off on the 30 or so chanichim. We had a great ma’amad (creative service), which was written and run by the newly qualified madrichim. Rabbi Pete Tobias was slightly put off when we did not sing his version of Bashanah Habah in his synagogue, but we promised to sing it the next time we visit Elstree!

The new site, Cottesmore School, has a 20-metre indoor pool, mini-golf and tenpin bowling

LJY-Netzer or give one of us a call, or email office@ljynetzer.org.

Vic Kaufman

Spring Camp Our brilliant Machaneh Aviv (Spring Camp) for school years 3-9 runs from 4 to 9 April. We’ll be returning to Norman Court Prep School, a stunning site with facilities galore, set in beautiful countryside near Salisbury. This year Machaneh Aviv coincides with the Biennial Weekend. Details and a booking form are on the Liberal Judaism website.

Mazkirut success

Scenes from Yom LJY-Netzer, at Elstree

After the success of this day LJY-Netzer is planning to have more Yamei LJY-Netzer (LJY-Netzer Days).

Lauren Dubell

The Mazkirut in Leeds in early December was one of the biggest of previous years, with many returning Shnatties (gap-year participants) attending for the first time. It was coordinated really well by the Bogrim who are at university in Leeds and many thanks goes to them!

A full Israeli breakfast Sam Andrews, one of our Shnatties, attended a breakfast reception with British Foreign Secretary David Miliband on his official visit to Israel.

LJY-Netzer is at www.ljynetzer.org. Contact Vic Kaufman or Lauren Dubell 020 7631 0584 or office@ljynetzer.org

January/February 2008

Page 12 LJ Today

Liberal Judaism congregations Bedfordshire Progressive Synagogue (Rodef Shalom), 01234 218387, bedsps@liberaljudaism.org, www.bedfordshire-ps.org.uk Beit Klal Yisrael, PO Box 1828, London W10 5RT 020 8960 5750, bky@liberaljudaism.org www.beit-klal-yisrael.org.uk Bet Tikvah Synagogue, 129 Perrymans Farm Road, Barkingside, Ilford, Essex IG2 7LX, 020 8554 9682, bttkv@liberaljudaism.org, www.bettikvah.org.uk Birmingham Progressive Synagogue Jericho House, 196-198 Edward Road, B12 9LX, 0121 446 5273, bps@liberaljudaism.org; branch: Leamington Spa, 01926 421300 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 Crawley Jewish Community, 01293 534294 Dublin Jewish Progressive Synagogue, PO Box 3059, Dublin 6, 00 3531 2856241, 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, eljc@liberaljudaism.org, www.eljc.org Finchley Progressive Synagogue Hutton Grove, N12 8DR, 020 8446 4063, fps@liberaljudaism.org, www.fps.org Harrow and Wembley Progressive Synagogue 326 Preston Road, Harrow, Middx HA3 0QH, 020 8904 8581, hwps@liberaljudaism.org www.hwps.org Herefordshire Jewish Community Enquiries: 07789 218823 Kent Liberal Jewish Community 07952 242432, bulletin.kljc@liberaljudaism.org, www.jewishkent.org.uk/communities/KLJC/kljc.html Kingston Liberal Synagogue Rushett Road, Long Ditton, Surbiton, Surrey KT7 0UX, 020 8398 7400, kls@liberaljudaism.org Leicester Progressive Jewish Congregation, The Synagogue, 24 Avenue Road, LE2 3EA, 07875 123744 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

Liberal Judaism The Montagu Centre, 21 Maple Street, London W1T 4BE, 020 7580 1663 Fax: 020 7631 9838 montagu@liberaljudaism.org, www.liberaljudaism.org Youth Department 020 7631 0584 www.ljynetzer.org President The Baroness Neuberger DBE Chairman Nigel Cole Vice Chairman Joan Shopper Treasurer David Pelham Officers Penny Beral; Roz Bott; William Glassman; Amanda Grant; Paul Infield; Elsbeth Mendes da Costa; Paula Scott; Stephanie Thwaites Senior Vice-President Rabbi Dr Sidney Brichto Vice-Presidents Jeromé Freedman, Louise Freedman, Rabbi Dr David Goldberg, Jeremy Jessel, David Lipman, Rosita Rosenberg, Tony Sacker, Beverley Taylor Hon. Vice-Presidents David Amstell, Geoffrey Davis, Rabbi Harry Jacobi, Willie Kessler, Corinne Oppenheimer, David Pick, Harold Sanderson, Clive Winston Chairs of Rabbinic Conference Rabbi Rachel Benjamin and Rabbi Dr Margaret Jacobi Chief Executive Rabbi Danny Rich Outreach Director Rabbi Aaron Goldstein Chaplain Rabbi Melinda Michelson-Carr Communications and PR Alexandra Mankowitz Shlicha Noa Marom Youth Clubs Jordan Helfman Student Fieldworker Jake Welford LJY-Netzer Victor Kaufman and Lauren Dubell Liberal Judaism promotes the religious and cultural traditions of our faith within the framework of progressive thinking and ethics. Liberal Judaism is a registered charity, number 256390.

LJ Today is edited by Beatrice Sayers The deadline for the March/ April 2008 issue is 1 February. Articles and letters for publication are welcome. Please send to: ljtodayeditor@liberaljudaism.org Printed by Freedman Bros.

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, 08709 917327, mljc@liberaljudaism.org, www.mljc.org.uk North London Progressive Jewish Community 020 7403 3779, nlpjc@liberaljudaism.org www.nlpjc.org.uk Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue Oaklands Gate, Northwood, Middlesex HA6 3AA 01923 822592, npls@liberaljudaism.org www.npls.org.uk Nottingham Progressive Jewish Congregation Lloyd Street, Sherwood, Nottingham NG5 4BP 0115 9624761, npjc@liberaljudaism.org www.npjc.org.uk Or Chadash Liberal Jewish Community of Luxembourg, 00 352 31 65 94 lljc@liberaljudaism.org Peterborough Liberal Jewish Community Enquiries: 020 7631 9826 The Progressive Jewish Community of East Anglia (based in Norwich), 01508 538666 pjcea@liberaljudaism.org, www.pjcea.org.uk Reading Liberal Jewish Community www.rljc.org 0118-375 3422, rljc@liberaljudaism.org South Bucks Jewish Community 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 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, George Lane, London E18 1AR 020 8989 7619, wps@liberaljudaism.org www.woodfordliberal.org.uk Associated congregations Oxford, for details of Liberal Jewish Services: 01865 515584 or 01865 765197 www.oxford-synagogue.org.uk New communities The Suffolk Jewish Community 020 7631 9821, sjc@liberaljudaism.org

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

7 January (Monday) Torah L’Am (Torah For All) course starts at the Montagu Centre. To book contact j.thwaites@liberaljudaism.org 20 February (Wednesday) Briefing on Israel and the Middle East By Professor Shai Feldman, 8pm at the Liberal Jewish Synagogue. All welcome 10 March (Tuesday) Visit to the Wiener Library Meet at Montagu Centre before visit at 10.30am 25 March to 2 April Religion school teachers’ seminar in Israel j.thwaites@liberaljudaism.org 4 to 6 April Biennial Weekend in Bristol. Contact m.beral@liberaljudaism.org. Also: Machaneh Aviv (Spring Camp) for children in school years 3-9. Contact LJY-Netzer: 020 7631 0584.

13 April (Sunday) FPJ concert at the Liberal Jewish Synagogue. Tickets (£25): 020 8440 3538 4 to 14 May Liberal Judaism’s Community Tour of Israel shlicha@liberaljudaism.org 8 May (Thursday) Yom Ha’atzmaut 5768 Sixty years since Israel’s independence 1 June (Sunday) Inter-synagogue quiz Teams do battle for the Liberal Judaism trophy. Hosted by last year’s winners, the LJS. 3 for 3.30pm 15 June (Sunday) Liberal Judaism Religion Schools’ Israel Event, at the LJS 27 July to 10 August Machaneh Kadimah Summer camp for ages eight to 15; details 020 7631 0584

Liberal Jews hit the airwaves Jewish broadcasters – many of them Liberal Jews – have been entertaining and enlightening listeners on topics from drama to fashion on JCom Radio.

The new Jewish station recently finished broadcasting under a onemonth RSL (restricted service licence) during which north-west Londoners tuned in to its FM programming. Now millions have the chance to continue listening online at www.jcomradio.net.

Rabbi Pete Tobias, of The Liberal Synagogue Elstree, continues to broadcast his series I’m a Rabbi, Get Me Out Of Here! every Monday between 6 and 7pm until 11 February.

During the one-month licence period, Rabbi Aaron Goldstein, Liberal Judaism’s head of community development, talked about his work with young adults and Alexandra Mankowitz, Liberal Judaism’s communications and PR officer, was interviewed about Israeli folk music; Rabbi Mark Solomon and Rabbi James Baaden also took part in programmes.

Liberal Judaism is a sponsor of JCom Radio, which can be heard via the internet from 6pm to 11pm, Sunday to Thursday.

Tour Israel and Jordan with CCJ The Dittons, Surrey, branch of the Council of Christians and Jews is running a tour of Israel and Jordan, from 14 to 29 May 2008. The tour will include visits to Petra, Madaba and Mount Nebo in Jordan. It will be led by Rabbi Danny Rich, chief executive of Liberal Judaism, and Father Patrick Shanahan, founder of the charity Street Child Africa. Cost: £1,200.

For details or to book, please contact: d.rich@liberaljudaism.org.

Tipping is optional London taxi drivers are known for being helpful but David Tachauer takes service to the community a step further.

While on a cruise from Miami, the cabbie was the only one of the dozen or so Jews in the liner’s tiny chapel on Friday night to be wearing a shirt and tie. So when the other, casually dressed congregants took him for the rabbi, David, a Bet Tikvah Synagogue member, went ahead and led the Erev Shabbat service – using the Siddur Lev Chadash he had with him.