www.pathtoprogressivejudaism.org.uk
Progressive Judaism: The proposal for unity
THIS year will be a key one for Progressive Judaism in the UK, as we move towards the two Extraordinary General Meeting votes that – if positive – will see the unification of Liberal Judaism (LJ) with the Movement for Reform Judaism (MRJ).
Work towards this moment began back in April 2023 – driven by the dream of a thriving, well-supported, emboldened, vocal and ambitious Progressive Judaism, and the strong conviction that we will be most effective in achieving this together. It has included a comprehensive feasibility study, financial and legal due diligence exercises, and examination of the key aspects of a new movement.
Most importantly, it has seen ‘in principle’ conversations take place with Reform and Liberal communities across the UK. Progressive Judaism Co-Leads, Rabbi Charley Baginsky and Rabbi Josh Levy, have travelled the country holding a series of forums – as well as monthly online ‘Open House’ discussions – for all of our congregations and members.
They said: “It has been amazing to be welcomed into communities and to hear first-hand from our membership what really matters to you. We are confident that you have given us a mandate to move forward and build a new organisation from a shared position of ambition and passion for Progressive Jewish life.”
This work has all been overseen by an Advisory Board drawn from across the two movements, and beyond, chaired by Dr Ed Kessler MBE.
In November 2024, the Advisory Board recommended to the MRJ and LJ Boards that we proceed with a full legal combination of the two movements.
In December, the LJ and MRJ Boards, in turn, each unanimously agreed to recommend this to the members of the two movements (which in both cases are the member communities).
If the member communities now also vote in favour, at the two EGMs, we estimate that six months of further work will then need to happen. This will include continuing conversations with communities, clergy and other stakeholders about vision and strategy for the new organisation. It may also take a significant period for registration with the Charity Commission to be finalised. Therefore, in order that the merger can be fully completed before the end of this year, we intend for the EGMs to take place in mid-May 2025.
Since this process began, it has been a core focus of the leadership and staff of both movements. That is why it is so important that, if possible, we follow this timetable so we can then refocus on the important task of working with, and on behalf of, our communities.
Between now and mid-May 2025, the leaderships of full member communities will need to decide on how to use their community’s votes at the EGMs.
Each congregation is different and each will know the best way to engage its membership in this important decision. The goal is that, when exercising the community vote, the congregation’s leadership feels confident it is reflecting the wishes of its members.
This issue of lj today is designed to help inform that decision. Pages 4-5 examine the many benefits this will bring, while pages 6-7 address the most frequently asked questions and provide guidance on how to get in touch with further queries.
We have also made an extensive information pack available for all at www.pathtoprogressivejudaism.org.uk/ information-pack
LJ and MRJ are constituents of the World Union for Progressive Judaism
Educators Conference rated ‘10/10’
RABBIS, cantors, headteachers, school administrators and academic leaders gathered at Edgware and Hendon Reform Synagogue to help shape the future of Jewish education in the UK at the Joint Progressive Educators Conference.
The event was attended by more than 150 people from 28 Liberal and Reform communities around the country – all learning from the expert presenters and sharing their own knowledge to help create a transformative revolution in Jewish education.
Progressive Judaism Co-Leads Rabbi Josh Levy and Rabbi Charley Baginsky gave the keynote address. They spoke about the importance of Progressive Jewish education. This was followed by three educational blocks with sessions on key topics including The Beauty and Magic of Hebrew, Classroom Management 101, Teaching Difficult Parts of Torah and Singing for the Young Soul.
Conference organisers Elena Izmailova (The Movement for Reform Judaism’s Community Youth and Education Coordinator) and Alexandra Gellnick (Liberal Judaism’s Director of Development and Membership) said: “We are delighted to report that it was a truly wonderful and productive day. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming with fantastic speakers who kept everyone inspired and engaged. It was amazing to see so many educators and young leaders come together. We’d like to thank everyone who attended and made this event so special!”
Feedback from participants underlined the success of the day. One wrote: “The diversity within the community was great to see and provoked a lot of highly interesting conversations.”
Others called the conference, and the sessions they attended, “fabulous”, “engaging”, “lively” and “a 10/10 event”.
Advocacy Day raises key issues
LIBERAL Judaism Chair Karen Newman and Officer Owen Power, along with Movement for Reform Judaism Vice President Andrew Gilbert, were among the Progressive Jews who took part in the Board of Deputies’ first ever direct Parliamentary Advocacy Day.
Participants met their MPs in Parliament to lobby them directly around key issues of significance to British Jews - including backing the creation of a British Jewish Culture Month, supporting the Independent Commission on Antisemitism, and maintaining awareness of the plight of the hostages.
Karen (top picture, right) said: “This was a great initiative by the Board. It encouraged Deputies to write to their MPs asking for a meeting to raise these issues of common concern.”
Owen (second picture, right) added: “This was an incredibly special day and the time I spent engaging with Catherine West MP and her team, alongside my fellow Deputy Judith Prinsley, was positive and productive.”
Israeli teens in emotional visit
A group of teenagers from the V’Ahavta Shoham Reform community in Israel spent a week in the UK, strengthening ties with their twinned community – The Liberal Synagogue Elstree (TLSE) – and attending RSY-Netzer’s winter camp.
A key moment in the visit took place on New Year’s Day when the Israelis joined their teenage counterparts to exchange powerful testimonies about how their lives had been changed by the events of 7 October 2023, both in Israel and the UK.
They also celebrated Chanukah with members of TLSE and Edgware & Hendon Reform Synagogue.
Thanks to a microgrant from UJIA, RSY-Netzer were thrilled to welcome the group to their Choref winter camp.
RSY Movement Worker Josh Freedman said: “The participants’ presence added depth and meaning to the Israel education on camp. They shared stories, taught songs, and ran an impactful session about their lives as young people in Israel, particularly in the wake of the 7 October attacks. Their openness and vulnerability enriched discussions, offering a nuanced view of Israeli society and fostering understanding.”
TLSE’s Rabbi Anna Wolfson added: “It was a joy hosting this special group.”
Hostage vigils
PROGRESSIVE JUDAISM has partnered with the Hostages and Missing Families Forum UK and a number of other Jewish organisations to arrange an ongoing series of Hostage Release Vigils.
The gatherings have taken place in synagogues of all denominations, including The Ark Synagogue, with the entire Jewish community and wider public invited to attend.
The vigils include speakers, songs and prayers, as we come together in solidarity and hope. With the recent ceasefire and release of several hostages, the events serve as a powerful reminder that those individuals still being held by Hamas are not forgotten, and that the community continues to advocate for their immediate and safe return.
Historic Muslim-Jewish Accord presented to King Charles III
PROGRESSIVE
Judaism Co-Leads Rabbi Charley Baginsky (CEO of Liberal Judaism) and Rabbi Josh Levy (CEO of the Movement for Reform Judaism) were among the 12 senior Muslim and Jewish denominational leaders who signed a landmark agreement, The Drumlanrig Accord, which marks a defining moment in interfaith relations in the UK.
Rooted in virtue and ethical principles, the Accord establishes a structured framework for sustained MuslimJewish collaboration, fostering deeper understanding and shared responsibility.
The faith leaders were then honoured to present a copy of the Accord to His Majesty King Charles III, at Buckingham Palace, underscoring its profound national and societal significance.
A deep and enduring commitment
Alongside Rabbi Josh Levy and Rabbi Charley Baginsky, the other Jewish signatories to the Accord are: Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth Sir Ephraim Mirvis; Masorti Judaism Senior Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg OBE; S&P Sephardi Senior Rabbi Joseph Dweck; and Rabbi Moshe Rubin, who is a leader in Scotland’s Orthodox Jewish community.
The Muslim signatories are: Chief Imam Dr Sayed Razawi (Shia); Senior Imam Qari Asim MBE (Sunni, Barelwi); Imam Sheikh Muhammad Ismail DL (Sunni, Deobandi), Head Imam Dr Sheikh Khalifa Ezzat (Sunni); Naushad Jivraj (President of the Aga Khan National Council for the UK, represented by Aliya Nasser); and His Excellency Kinana Jamaluddin Bhai Sahib (Ismaili, Bohra).
This initiative is not political. It represents a deep and enduring commitment from the UK’s Jewish and Muslim communities to strengthen relationships, promote understanding and work together for the common good.
The Accord is the outcome of a yearlong series of meetings convened by Imam Dr Sayed Razawi, which culminated in a private retreat from 14-16 January at Drumlanrig Castle, Scotland, hosted by the Duke of Buccleuch Richard Scott.
For the first time in UK history, senior representatives from 11 major Muslim and Jewish denominations gathered to shape a future founded on shared values, reconciliation, and social responsibility.
A new framework for engagement
The Accord begins with the recognition that: “Muslim and Jewish communities around the world share a profound spiritual heritage.
“Both traditions are rooted in monotheism, the sanctity of life and a commitment to justice. Global tensions, particularly in the Middle East, often strain relationships between these communities, leading to misunderstandings and fractures at a local level.
“In times of crisis, these fractures can deepen escalating Islamophobia, antisemitism and societal polarisation.”
It then sets out a new framework for engagement, built on mutual respect, dialogue and practical collaboration. It champions the principle of disagreeing agreeably, to ensure that differences do not lead to division but instead foster deeper understanding.
It is not a symbolic gesture, but rather a call to action committing both communities to work together on practical initiatives that support the most vulnerable and tackle societal inequities such as isolation and poverty.
The presentation of the Accord to the King was a reflection of its national importance, as a moment of unity that is underscored by a shared commitment to building lasting relationships between the communities, ensuring that cooperation is embedded in enduring faith institutions that serve the greater good.
The task that now lies ahead
This moment was not the conclusion of a dialogue but the beginning of a long journey – one that will be supported by dedicated initiatives and a deep commitment to ethical action in service of the greater good.
Speaking after the signing, Rabbi Charley Baginsky told The Times: “The importance of this moment cannot be overstated. The key message of this Accord is that we must learn how to hold a diversity of voices, within our shared religious values, and when we do disagree, to do so agreeably – listening and learning from each other.”
Rabbi Josh Levy added: “In this period of real challenge for Jewish-Muslim relations, this historic Accord models that we can still be in relationship with each other – even at the most difficult times. Our task now is to make these words real by building deep, long-lasting structures nationally, locally, on campuses, and wherever Jews and Muslims interact in the UK.”
A landmark moment at Buckingham Palace as faith leaders signed The Drumlanrig Accord and (main picture) presented it to King Charles III
The joy of Progressive Judaism
Rabbi Rebecca Birk writes on the power of becoming one bigger and more impactful family
THIRTY years ago my life was changed, I am certain, by the bagel.
Not one in particular but the plethora of bagel shops, knish stands and various Jewish food stuffs available – alongside the casual use of Yiddish expressions I encountered everywhere – in Boston, where I studied, and on my frequent trips to New York City.
Even more surprising, for a British Jew, was that far from encountering a majority Orthodox community, I had the mind-opening experience of Progressive Judaism (known as Reform Judaism in the USA) being the largest of all the Jewish denominations.
I was deeply impressed by its confidence and courage as it engaged with contemporary life and brought Jewish tradition to the fore in an open and engaging way. It was what inspired my journey to the rabbinate.
Now, after 23 years as a rabbi, I am watching a new moment in British Jewry that will change our Jewish landscape.
The coming together of Britain’s Liberal and Reform movements to co-create one Progressive Judaism will amplify our voice, increase our numbers and broaden what it means to be Jewish and concerned and engaged in modern life.
Jewish life emanates mostly from our homes, our families and our synagogues – where we raise our children or count significant life events.
This new movement will support and build our congregations.
On the national stage, representation is key. When our children see ‘their rabbis’ in high-profile places – such as when Progressive Judaism Co-Leads Rabbi Josh Levy and Rabbi Charley Baginsky represent us in Downing Street, at the Cenotaph and at international events – it makes a real difference to the confidence and possibility of what we can achieve.
I sit on the Progressive Judaism Advisory Board. For almost two years, we have been doing this work and thinking deeply about what is being built.
The Chair of the Advisory Board, Dr Ed Kessler MBE, describes what is happening as: “The most significant moment in British Jewry since the war”.
It is.
The practical concerns, of course, take much focus, but so do the theological and ideological values. Progressive Judaism will be accessible, meaningful and brave.
We share already the belief, as Deuteronomy 30 promised, that this thing, this ‘Jewishness’, is close to our mouths and our hearts. We know that justice and courage is as dear to us, as are the customs of Shabbat. We know that expanding the narrow definitions of Jewish identity will continue to be at the heart of what we do.
At this time, we rabbis and cantors are also asking ourselves critical questions. What does it mean to be a Progressive Jew in Britain today? What does it demand of us? What are we progressing from and towards?
And what about God in this new movement? What will change? How diverse can our views be on Israel and Jewish identity and still remain one movement?
I am intrigued to see how we answer these questions together, and with integrity, as we become this bigger, more impactful Progressive family.
• Rabbi Rebecca Birk is the representative of the Conference of Liberal Rabbis and Cantors on the Progressive Judaism Advisory Board
Why it’s right for Reform and Liberal to unite
Rabbi Jonathan Romain on just how much our inclusive, modern forms of Judaism have in common
BOTH Liberal and Reform Judaism are over 100 years old – and the differences between the two were once significant. Once upon a time, if you went to a Reform synagogue the service would be predominantly in Hebrew with some prayers in English, while men (and only men) wore a kippah and tallit. In contrast, those attending Liberal synagogues prayed largely in English, where ritual garb was almost totally absent.
In recent decades, however, those distinctions have disappeared, with Reform modernising and Liberal Judaism re-adopting discarded traditions.
Today our two denominations have come to very similar positions. Both are fully egalitarian. Both welcome mixedfaith families. Both campaigned for equal marriage and have wedding/lifecycle ceremonies for LGBTQI+ Jews. Both offer rich, meaningful, creative and musical Shabbat and festival experiences. We are aligned on status issues – including that Jewish status can be inherited from either mother or father – and having a shared relationship with Israel.
In synagogue, it is often impossible to tell the differences between a Liberal or Reform service. Most of our rabbis come from Leo Baeck College, where they receive identical training. Indeed, when I retired from Maidenhead Synagogue, a Reform community, my successor was Rabbi René Pfertzel, who had previously served Liberal congregations.
Most crucial of all, our core principles are identical: marrying the best of the past with the realities of today and forging together the wisdom of tradition with the insights of modernity.
Our Reform and Liberal synagogues are autonomous and so will retain their own minhag (customs) and identity. Their names will not change; and familiar prayer books and practices will remain.
What will be different is that our communities and members will now be part of a much strengthened form of tolerant, inclusive, modern Judaism.
Linking up will make a massive difference to sharing resources, supporting communities and having a more powerful voice in the direction of British Jewry. This is especially important at a time when the ultra-Orthodox birthrate means right-wing influences are becoming much louder. We need a strong moderate counterpart.
My personal hope is that this unification will go ahead and that common purpose will trump historic differences. I am also certain that, if achieved, we will look back and ask: “Why did it take us so long?”
• Rabbi Dr Jonathan Romain MBE is Convener of the Reform Beit Din
The vision and purpose of a new movement
SINCE the announcement of the plan to co-create one Progressive Judaism for the UK, we have seen hundreds of conversations, community visits, online forums and discussion events take place. They have reflected a shared ambition that Progressive Judaism should be a prominent and essential part of Jewish lives in the UK, of the landscape of the Jewish community and of British society.
A strategic plan has not yet been created for the new movement – as this can only happen after a positive vote to proceed, and in full partnership with our clergy and communities.
However, we have put together a brief vision informed by all those conversations – and therefore with the input of all of you all around the country.
It seeks to set out a clear sense of purpose for the new Movement focussing on four key missions.
1. Strengthen, support and connect communities
Why this is core:
• Progressive Judaism enriches lives and is a force for good.
• At the heart of a thriving Progressive Judaism must always be a network of vibrant communities across the country.
• Every community should be helped to reach its full potential, safely and legally.
• For the movement to thrive, communities must see it as a partner in their work.
Ways the new movement will support:
Advice and consultation
Provide expert resources on HR, governance, safeguarding, fundraising, communications and more to support communities in transition, growth or crisis.
Connection between communities
Facilitate networking and collaboration between communities by offering national and local events that would not be possible otherwise.
Resources for smaller communities
Supply training, materials and clergy support – including resources for prayer, education, social justice and more.
Strategic thinking and development
Provide an overview of the landscape in order to foster innovation and new opportunities for growth and development.
2. Promote, amplify and embolden our values and forms of Jewish life
Why this is core:
• Progressive Judaism is the natural home for most of this country’s Jews, and we should showcase the diversity and richness of our Jewish life.
• Being a Progressive Jew should be a source of pride and we should be seen as central to UK Jewish life, while respecting personal autonomy and inclusivity.
• We bring a unique and important voice to the Jewish, and wider, conversations shaping how Judaism and religion are perceived globally.
• We have a unique role in speaking for the marginalised, promoting social justice and being agents of change in line with our Jewish values.
Ways the new movement will support:
Development of media strategy
Proactively engaging with press and media to generate articles; from thought pieces to celebrations of communal life, enabling a range of voices to be heard.
Engagement with civil society
Developing a strategy for engagement with politicians, to ensure that Progressive Judaism is represented at national events and involved in social justice and interfaith work.
Liaison with national and international Jewish bodies and Israel
Leading the engagement with key British and international organisations to serve our members’ interests.
Support for thought leadership
Developing and resourcing publications, videos and online materials while supporting clergy bodies in thought leadership projects.
3. Inspire, connect and nurture the next generations of Progressive Jews
Why this is core:
• Young people are the current and future leaders of Progressive Judaism and we need to inspire and educate them for its continued success.
• The quality of youth provision is a key factor in driving synagogue membership.
• Our infrastructure needs to meet the needs of young people when they are outside their communities, for example at university.
Ways the new movement will support:
High-quality, inspiring youth provision
Ensuring thriving youth movements and gap-year programming. Supporting small communities and integrating Progressive Judaism into Jewish schools, while assisting students in non-Jewish schools.
Student and young adult support
Offering Progressive chaplaincy and community resources for students and providing support for both those outside and within the existing infrastructure. Additionally, offering programming in partnership with communities.
Guidance for young people’s journeys
Addressing young adult involvement in community life and membership models for young adults and young families.
Leadership programmes
Identifying and mentoring future leaders through Progressive Jewish leadership programs and supporting access to existing opportunities.
4. Foster inclusion and pave the way for those seeking to join us
Why this is core:
• Outreach represents a real growth opportunity, including reaching the 75,000 Jewish households not currently affiliated to a synagogue.
• We believe everyone who wants to engage with Jewish life should receive a welcoming and supportive response.
• Increasing numbers of Jews in the UK have unmet Jewish needs.
Ways the new movement will support:
Supporting status journeys
Resourcing a responsive and welcoming
Beit Din / Batei Din and offering support for communities with proselytes.
Gateway for lifecycle support
Providing resources, support and information for those seeking to enter Jewish life during lifecycle events.
Developing new communities
Conducting demographic research and providing strategies and resources to help establish new communities.
Supporting outreach programs
Offering key workers and resources to assist existing communities in developing and expanding outreach programmes.
Answering your most frequently Progressive Judaism
What is driving this change?
This proposal is driven by a vision of a thriving, well-supported, emboldened, vocal, ambitious Progressive Judaism for the UK. The role of the new movement is to help to deliver that vision, building an infrastructure to underpin and support the work, amplifying our voices in the wider world, and delivering those aspects that we best do collectively.
Importantly, this vision is being proposed from a position of strength. Both movements are financially stable; we have shared values and many shared practices; our clergy bodies are supportive and are inspiring in their ability to hold and respect diversity; our two movements represent close to 30% of synagogue-affiliated Jews in the UK; together we make up the largest synagogue body by number of communities with congregations across the breadth of the UK and Ireland.
Despite this strength, operating as two separate entities we often punch below our weight. We believe that we can achieve more by doing the work together and that this is the time to do it.
What will the name be?
Since the beginning of this process, we have been using the phrase Progressive Judaism.
Progressive Judaism (in Hebrew, Yahadut Mitkademet) already existed as the umbrella term in world Jewry that encompasses both Reform and Liberal Judaism, and was therefore the best and most widely understood term for what we are – especially for external stakeholders such as media and government.
We wrote about the history, usage and opportunity of this name in the information booklet sent to communities in late 2024 and published on www.pathtoprogressivejudaism.org.uk
It is also important to differentiate between the denominational identity (Progressive, Reform, Liberal) and the organisational identity for several reasons, including advice from legal experts about organisational clarity.
The proposal is therefore that, while the wider brand may become known as Progressive Judaism, the name of the new company will be The Movement for Progressive Judaism.
Why a legal combination instead of just working together?
Since the start of this process, LJ and MRJ have worked closely together in a new way. We have seen the difference that this makes, especially in our external representation, where we have seen the benefits of speaking together.
However, as two separate entities, the current collaboration is complex and not the best use of resources. We experience duplication, organisational issues and challenges of governance and oversight.
What happens if the proposal does not get consent?
This course of action is not a fait accompli. We believe that it is the right thing, but it cannot happen without the consent of our member communities. If the vote is not in favour, to the level required, then the combination will not take place.
We would retain separate identities and infrastructures. We would return to being two distinct organisations with different strategic futures.
Can our community vote against the merger and still join if it happens?
Yes. If the proposal is approved, all current members of LJ and MRJ that sign a membership agreement will automatically become members of the new entity on the day of transfer. The draft of the membership agreement has been sent to communities.
No congregation will have to join but all will be automatically entitled to do so, however they voted in the EGM.
What is the membership agreement?
In the new organisation, the relationship between movement and communities, and the rights and responsibilities of membership, will be made clearer through a membership agreement. We heard very strongly that members will welcome a document that clarifies and encodes this relationship, as well as laying out a dispute resolution process (which we hope will never be needed!)
A copy of the proposed membership agreement is in the information pack sent to communities and posted online at www.pathtoprogressivejudaism.org.uk/ information-pack
How will my community have a say in the work of the new movement?
The proposed governing arrangements include a quarterly meeting, to be called the Forum of Members, at which representatives of every member community and associate member, clergy, and representatives of our youth movements will be invited to come together to discuss the work of the developing movement.
More formally, every member community will continue to vote at General Meetings and be able to nominate people to the Trustee Board, the elected body which has responsibility for the legal, financial and operational management of the organisation.
The votes will include a weighted voting system. The model being proposed for the initial three years is a relatively ‘flat’ system, in which only the small number of very large communities will receive additional votes, acknowledging that they represent a very large number of Progressive Jews in this country.
The nature of the model reflects that we all have a shared investment in the creation of the new organisation. A review will take place after the first three years.
Liberal and Reform Judaism clergy bodies inspire by holding diversity within shared values
Progressive Judaism
frequently asked questions
What will be the relationship of the new movement to my community?
The main organising principle for the new movement will be the same as for the two existing movements: LJ and MRJ. It will be a membership organisation, made up of autonomous communities, most of which are themselves independent charities. As is the case now, membership will be open to communities rather than individuals.
Our communities are diverse in make-up, size, location, resources, culture, liturgy and religious practice. This diversity, and the freedom of communities to develop in different ways, is central to the richness and beauty of Progressive Judaism in the UK.
Will my community need to change?
No! The diversity of communities and their freedom to develop in different ways is central to the richness and beauty of Progressive Judaism in the UK.
We are absolutely committed to congregations retaining their individual identities, services and practices. There won’t be changes to prayer books or minhag (customs) and we certainly won’t be asking any community to remove Liberal or Reform from their name.
What are the financial implications for my community?
The financial contribution made by each community towards the cost of the infrastructure of the movement is one of the more complex aspects of the proposal. In both movements, this amount is currently calculated as a percentage of subscription income.
Over a number of years, MRJ communities have been through a process of reducing the percentage of their subscription income allocated to the movement, whereas LJ communities have remained at a constant.
We are proposing a process of equalisation over the first three years of the new entity, during which current MRJ communities will pay the same percentage of NRSI (Net Relevant Subscription Income) as they currently do, while current LJ communities have a staggered reduction to match the process MRJ has already been through.
After the first three-year period, there will be a review which will include the method by which community contributions are calculated.
What will be the implications for clergy training?
Reform and Liberal rabbis in the UK have always trained together at Leo Baeck College and many of our clergy have served both movements.
From the beginning of this conversation, it has been clear that there is a shared commitment to high-quality clergy training taking place in the UK and that this is vital to ensure a thriving Progressive Jewish community.
How will this impact on the two youth movements?
Our two Youth Movements – LJY-Netzer and RSY-Netzer – currently have different offerings at different times of the year and cater to different audiences. It would make no sense to disrupt this. Both are semi-autonomous and the decision about their future belongs to them.
What we can do, as one movement, is ensure that they benefit from better resources and a shared infrastructure that increases their welfare and logistical support, while allowing their output to continue to be separate.
What about issues of Jewish status and inclusion?
On issues of conversion, Jewish status, the welcome of mixed-faith families and LGBTQI+ inclusion, Liberal and Reform communities and the clergy bodies already have strongly shared values and very similar procedures and policies.
Over the last 20 years, our two movements have become even closer on matters of status and inclusion and while there are, of course, some small differences in procedures – this diversity can be retained within our shared values.
As members of the World Union for Progressive Judaism, our two movements recognise the status and conversion decisions of the other and will continue to do so whether we merge or not.
Put simply… if you are a Liberal Jew, then you are also a Reform Jew and a Progressive Jew – and every combination!
Get further information
WE KNOW that many of you will have further questions, concerns and ideas about the process that is now underway.
A lot of this information is on the www.pathtoprogressivejudaism.org.uk website, which is regularly updated.
In the information pack section, you will find the key foundational proposals for the new movement including the membership agreement, articles and rules. There is also an expanded Q&A.
We are also delighted to invite all members of Liberal and Reform communities to a series of Open House Zoom events with Progressive Judaism Co-Leads Rabbi Josh Levy and Rabbi Charley Baginsky on the following dates:
Thursday 6 March at 8pm
Thursday 10 April at 8pm
Thursday 8 May at 8pm
Rabbis Charley and Josh will use these to outline the practical steps and upcoming votes to create one Progressive Judaism for the UK. They are also your chance to ask questions, raise concerns and share your vision for the future.
The Zoom events will be hosted by Progressive Judaism’s Head of Communications, Simon Rothstein. To ensure that they run smoothly, we request that questions be submitted in advance so Simon can organise the schedule and call on participants in turn.
We will make sure each topic is covered. If multiple similar queries are received, we will call on just one person to ask. As these are live events, there will also be time to ask additional new questions on the night.
• To request the Open House Zoom link, email hello@progressivejudaism.org.uk
• If you have a question, please send it to SimonR@progressivejudaism.org.uk
Youth movements will be better resourced
Holocaust remembrance and education
OUR Progressive Jewish movements, clergy and communities have a long and deep connection to Holocaust remembrance and education. This year, on Holocaust Memorial Day, that legacy continued at a series of national and local events. It is impossible to feature everything in this one edition, but we wanted to share some important moments with you below:
RABBI JOSH LEVY represented Progressive Judaism at the national Holocaust Memorial Day Ceremony.
Rabbi Josh – whose grandfather, Reverend Dr Isaac Levy, was the Senior Jewish Chaplain to the British Liberation Army – spoke alongside Mervyn Kersh, a former soldier who was stationed near Bergen-Belsen when the camp was liberated. He then recited the Jewish memorial prayer El Malei Rachamim.
The Holocaust Memorial Day 2025 Ceremony was broadcast on BBC One and attended by senior civic and faith leaders, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Prince and Princess of Wales.
MORE THAN 900 school pupils in Kingston-upon-Thames attended events marking HMD at Kingston Liberal Synagogue and their neighbouring Orthodox community.
Nine key speakers included four Holocaust survivors and adult descendants. They each gave a talk after which the students were able to ask questions.
A testimony that had a particular impact on the children was that of survivor Marcel Ladenheim BEM. One attendee said: “Stories like Marcel’s need to be told, so people are more educated and nothing like this ever happens again.”
RABBI CHARLEY BAGINSKY and Rabbi Josh Levy played key roles in the Holocaust Memorial Day Commemoration at Lambeth Palace, organised by the Council of Christians and Jews (CCJ).
Rabbi Charley delivered powerful closing words, saying: “May we always remember that it is through our collective will, our shared humanity and our unshakeable optimism that we create a future worthy of the lives we honour today.”
THE Tottenham Hotspur Stadium hosted the annual civic interfaith Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration for the London Borough of Haringey with the involvement of Rabbi Sandra Kviat (Crouch End Chavurah) and Louise Heilbron (Finchley Reform Synagogue).
NORWICH
Liberal Jewish Community took part in two important memorial events in the city.
The first at
St Peter Mancroft Church was led by Reverend Dr Fiona Haworth, NLJC’s Rabbi Martina Loreggian and Rabbi Roderick Young. The second, sponsored by the Norwich branch of the CCJ, was exemplified by the contribution of young musicians.
Norwich Chair Linda Albin said: “The participation by so many at both events gives hope that through our words and deeds, we may say, NEVER AGAIN!”
Speaking in The Jewish Chronicle, Rabbi Sandra said: “This was a poignant and thoughtful commemoration of the Holocaust with speakers from many backgrounds.”
• MEMBERS of The Ark Synagogue have helped to create and support the online project Holocaust Learning UK, offering a unique array of films for secondary school students.
• THE Edgware and Hendon Reform Synagogue Choir and Alyth SMG Choir provided the music for the London Borough of Barnet’s HMD event.
A workshop for school pupils will also now take place. Louise, one of the dedicated volunteers behind the project, said: “The children will get a unique opportunity to engage with both an Imam and a Rabbi, and together they will light candles in a symbolic act of unity and remembrance.”
• THE choir of Milton Keynes Synagogue sang at the city’s Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration.
• CLLR Jonathan Kaye of Harlow Jewish Community helped to organise the ceremony at East Herts Council.
• RABBI Cliff Cohen said Kaddish at Canterbury Cathedral’s HMD Evensong.
Supporting families through childhood illness
WHEN a family receives the devastating news of a child’s serious illness, their world shifts in an instant. Camp Simcha supports some 1,700 family members annually, by helping them cope with over 50 serious, life-threatening, lifechanging and chronic paediatric medical conditions. Here mum-of-three Sheryl Barker, who works as an administrator at Southgate Progressive Synagogue, writes about the support her family have received over the past three years after her son Malachi became ill with a condition later diagnosed as EhlersDanlos syndrome:
CAMP SIMCHA’s support has been a lifeline in so many ways. Malachi’s condition affects the muscles in the body including swallowing, so he has had an NG (nasogastric) feeding tube since he was two and, more recently, a PEG into his stomach. He also needs splints for weakness in his ankles.
When he has liquids, he is at risk of aspirating which means his lungs fill; he also has colitis. As a result, we are in and out of hospital – both for planned procedures and emergencies. This is very hard on family life.
Our Camp Simcha family liaison officer Robyn is wonderful.
She is someone I can talk to and is also there for me in practical ways – like food and support when we are in hospital.
My oldest daughter Liliana, who is seven, struggles with uncertainty around Malachi’s condition, so Robyn arranged therapeutic art sessions and a ‘Big Sister’ volunteer, Ayala. Now she knows that whatever happens, every Tuesday Ayala will come to see her and she absolutely loves her.
We have also attended Camp Simcha’s residential summer retreat for the past two years. The first time we went, I didn’t know what to expect but it was amazing. We cannot leave Malachi with just anyone so my husband and I rarely get a break. At the retreat, there were volunteers looking after the children and a medic on site so we could truly relax. Camp Simcha arranged dinner-fortwo for all the parents and we realised it was the first time we had spent time alone together since Malachi got ill.
It was also really good for us to talk to others facing similar challenges; creating a network of people who understand.
The children loved all the activities but, for Malachi, what made the biggest impression was meeting another child with an NG tube… it was good for him to realise he was not the only one.
• Find out more about Camp Simcha’s work at www.campsimcha.org.uk or if you, or someone you know, needs support, get in touch confidentially on 020 8202 9297 or office@campsimcha.org.uk
Live better for longer at home
MANY of our congregations have been building relationships with Nightingale Hammerson, care home provider for the Jewish community. The charity recently launched a new service – Reach by Nightingale Hammerson – to support people to live better for longer in their own homes. Here, they tell us about the free advice and resources on offer:
CARING for someone can be overwhelming. Suddenly you’re faced with all sorts of questions: How do I prevent falls? What if my dad stops eating properly? Where can I find funding for carers? What should I do when my mum living with dementia keeps asking me the same question?
At Reach by Nightingale Hammerson, we take the guesswork out of caregiving. Our goal is to reduce anxiety and empower individuals, families and caregivers with the confidence to provide effective care at home.
For over 180 years, Nightingale Hammerson has been at the heart of exceptional residential care in England.
But times are changing. More people are choosing to remain in their own homes for as long as possible. While staying at home offers comfort and familiarity, it can also bring new challenges. Many families step into caregiving roles without the training or experience to navigate the complexities of ageing, leading to stress, uncertainty and tough decisions.
Our new free digital platform is designed to provide individuals and caregivers with expert-backed advice for ageing well at home. In a world overflowing with information, Reach acts as a trusted one-stop shop, delivering clear and practical guidance exactly when you need it.
The advice covers a range of important topics, including:
Mobility: Tips to support daily movement such as climbing the stairs or getting into a chair.
Sleep: Guidance on nighttime routines, addressing sleep problems and creating a restful environment, along with other helpful resources.
Nutrition: Advice on staying hydrated, using adaptive tools, and much more to support healthy eating.
Engagement: Creative activities specifically designed for individuals living with dementia, plus additional ideas to stay connected.
Funding: Discover funding options for later life care.
We continually update our resource library because care needs are always evolving. Explore our latest advice at www.nightingalehammerson.org/reach
Reach content being filmed to help others
The Barker family and volunteer Ayala at the retreat
IN MEMORY... Ann Kirk BEM
ANN KIRK BEM
– a deeply loved member of The Liberal Jewish Synagogue (LJS) and one of Britain’s most dedicated Holocaust educators – has died at the age of 96.
Together with husband Bob, who passed away just a few weeks before her, Ann helped teach thousands of young people about the horrors of the Nazi regime – with the couple using their own experiences to explain the need to treat all people with dignity and respect.
Ann was born Hannah Kuhn in Berlin in 1928. She escaped to the UK in 1938 on the Kindertransport. She met Bob – who also fled the Nazis via the Kindertransport – at a club for Jewish refugees and they married in 1950.
Their commitment to the LJS and Liberal Judaism for more than 70 years saw the couple presented with a JVN Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award. They were also appointed as Vice Presidents of Liberal Judaism.
Michael Newman, Chief Executive of the Association of Jewish Refugees, said: “Bob and Ann were kindred spirits – their relationship symbolised a message of hope born out of horror.”
Beverley Taylor
BEVERLEY TAYLOR
– a key figure in the success of Liberal Judaism and its communities for many decades –died at the start of Chanukah.
Beverley spent most of her adult life working and volunteering for the movement. She later became a Vice President of Liberal Judaism. She was also very involved with her communities – both the South London Liberal Synagogue, where she was a member and Vice President, and Kent Liberal Jewish Community, which she led for many years. She was often seen taking services and helping others.
Rabbi Charley Baginsky said: “Beverley was a beloved figure within the communities she helped to build and the national movement which she served with so much heart.”
Building connections across the continent
RSY-NETZER Movement Workers Carrie Lee and Katie Freedman represented both of our British Progressive youth groups at the WAY (World Assembly of Youth movement councils) conference in Athens, Greece.
Bringing together youth movements from across Europe, it was a great opportunity to have important discussions with other young Jewish leaders –especially around relationship to Israel.
It was also a chance to share knowledge, culture, games, song and dance with people from other countries.
Katie and Carrie said: “We were very grateful for the chance to hear and share lots of different perspectives and opinions in a respectful environment.
“Our favourite part of the conference was getting to know the participants from other sniffim (branches) of Netzer, who came from France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands.
THE online Havdalah at The Ark Synagogue – which began at the onset of the Covid lockdown – celebrated its 250th consecutive week.
In a special celebratory service, 70 participants and one enthusiastic dinosaur joined the live coverage from around the world. This online Ark community included members and friends in the UK, Israel, Ukraine, America, Canada, New Mexico, India, Cyprus, Ireland and Australia.
In all, the gathering covered more than 21,000 miles and crossed numerous time zones – with participants joining from lunchtime in Cape Cod to the early hours in Perth.
“Some highlights included guessing the meaning of slang in different languages, teaching everyone our Saturday Night dance and the ‘Tasty Extravaganza’, where we each tried food from the other’s country. We really liked the pretzels from Germany although Carrie did not enjoy the liquorice from the Netherlands!
“We also brainstormed lots of ways to collaborate more in the future, which we are very excited about!”
At the end of the trip, the group had the opportunity to tour Athens. The Movement Workers added: “Despite the cold and rainy weather (a lovely reminder of home), we had a great time exploring the Parthenon with our new friends. We also visited the two synagogues in Athens and learned about the Jewish community there and its history.
“All in all, we both had an amazing time and we can’t wait to continue building on the connections we made!”
Pip Jacobs, believed to have attended every one of the 250 services, said: “Five years ago, I barely knew what the word Havdalah meant. Now, this is the treat of the week. A chance to get together from everywhere.”
Ark Senior Rabbis Aaron Goldstein and Lea Mühlstein said: “This weekly source of comfort, care and community has sustained so many of us, during the pandemic and long after it ended.”
LJY-Netzer is Liberal Judaism’s Zionist youth movement. It gives young people the opportunity to develop a strong Progressive Jewish identity, make lasting friendships and have loads of fun
We had the best time on our February Sleepover
LJY-NETZER members in school years 3-6 enjoyed a jam-packed 24 hours full of fun, games, singing and learning at our February Sleepover.
We started off Saturday afternoon with a scavenger hunt, and then made beautiful candle holders for Shabbat out of different coloured clay.
Sunday morning started off the way all LJY mornings do with ruach, aka a 15-minute energy boost of singing and dancing to wake you up!
We then got introduced to our newlyvoted Theme of the Year, ‘Widening our Tent’, played some games outside, learned about how to look after ourselves and finally said goodbye with a classic LJY rendition of Leaving on a Jet Plane. Who knew you could fit so much into just one day?
Ready for Shamayim
MACHANEH SHAMAYIM, our incredible spring camp for ages 8-15 (school years 3-10), is coming up soon.
Shamayim takes place from 6-11 April. It’s four nights and five days of non-stop fun in the beautiful Sussex countryside; the highlight of the Easter holidays. Who better to explain how great Shamayim is than the participants? Here is what last year’s had to say:
“It’s a really fun camp where you make lots of friends.”
“It is a great bonding experience.”
“It is a very special Liberal Jewish experience.”
“It’s a really fun event with lots of activities.”
You can sign up on our website www.ljy-netzer.org
Sign up for Kayitz
IF you’re in school years 11 and 12 then you should be signing up for Kayitz, LJY’s summer Europe tour, ASAP!
From 29 July to 8 August we will be touring all around the Balkans, swimming at the beautiful beaches of Split and Dubrovnik, hiking through Plitvice National Park (a UNESCO world heritage site), exploring the city of Zagreb, shopping in the flea markets of Sarajevo and visiting the old city of Mostar - all while learning about the fascinating Jewish communities of Croatia and Bosnia.
There are only 10 spaces left on Kayitz at the time of writing. It will truly be the trip of a lifetime - not only do you get to visit amazing places, but you will become part of LJY’s community and make lasting friendships. Don’t miss out!
You can sign up on our website www.ljy-netzer.org
Contact LJY-Netzer: Email Tali Ehrlich (t.ehrlich@liberaljudaism.org), Mia Harris (m.harris@liberaljudaism.org) and Jess Spanier (j.spanier@liberaljudaism.org) or visit our website www.ljy-netzer.org
Liberal Judaism congregations
The Ark Synagogue (Northwood and Pinner)
T: 01923 822 592
E: admin@arksynagogue.org W: arksynagogue.org
Bedfordshire Progressive Synagogue T: 0845 869 7105
E: info@bedsps.org.uk W: bedfordshire-ps.org.uk
Beit Klal Yisrael (London) E: admin@bky.org.uk W: bky.org.uk
Birmingham Progressive Synagogue T: 0121 634 3888 E: bps@liberaljudaism.org W: bpsjudaism.com
Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue T: 01273 737 223
E: info@bhps-online.org W: bhps-online.org
Bristol and West Progressive Jewish Congregation T: 0117 403 3456
E: info@bwpjc.org W: bwpjc.org
Crawley Jewish Community T: 01293 534 294
Crouch End Chavurah E: naomi@crouchendchavurah.org W: www.crouchendchavurah.org
Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation
E: djpc@liberaljudaism.org W: djpcireland.com
Ealing Liberal Synagogue T: 020 8997 0528
E: admin@ealingliberalsynagogue.org.uk W: ealingliberalsynagogue.org.uk
East London & Essex Liberal Synagogue T: 0208 989 7619
E: administrator@elels.org.uk W: elels.org.uk
Eastbourne Liberal Jewish Community T: 07376 916 920
E: eljc.contact@gmail.com W: eljc.org.uk
Edinburgh Liberal Jewish Community T: 0131 777 8024
E: info@eljc.org W: eljc.org
Finchley Progressive Synagogue T: 020 8446 4063
E: fps@liberaljudaism.org W: fps.org
Kehillah North London T: 07706 354 602
E: info@kehillah.org.uk W: kehillah.org.uk
Kent Liberal Jewish Community T: 07384 993 553
E: enquiries@kljc.org.uk W: kljc.org.uk
Kingston Liberal Synagogue T: 020 8398 7400
E: kls@liberaljudaism.org W: klsonline.org
Leicester Progressive Jewish Congregation
E: chair@lpjc.org.uk W: lpjc.org.uk
The Liberal Jewish Synagogue (St John’s Wood) T: 020 7286 5181 E: ljs@ljs.org W: ljs.org
The Montagu Centre 21 Maple Street London, W1T 4BE T: 020 7580 1663 E: montagu@liberaljudaism.org W: liberaljudaism.org W: pathtoprogressivejudaism.org.uk
Liberal Judaism is the dynamic, cutting edge of modern Judaism. It reverences Jewish tradition, seeking to preserve the values of the past, while giving them contemporary force.
Charity Number: 1151090
lj today is edited by Simon Rothstein. Send news to SimonR@progressivejudaism.org.uk
The Liberal Synagogue Elstree T: 020 8953 8889
E: office@tlse.org.uk W: tlse.org.uk
Lincolnshire Jewish Community W: lincolnsynagogue.com
Mosaic Liberal Synagogue (Stanmore) T: 020 8864 0133 E: office@mosaicliberal.org.uk W: mosaicliberal.org.uk
Norwich Liberal Jewish Community E: nljc@liberaljudaism.org W: norwichljc.org.uk
Nottingham Liberal Synagogue T: 0115 962 4761
E: info@nottinghamliberalsynagogue.com W: nottinghamliberalsynagogue.com
Peterborough Liberal Jewish Community T: 07561 331 390 E: info@pljc.org.uk W: pljc.org.uk
Reading Liberal Jewish Community E: readingliberaljewishcommunity@ gmail.com W: readingljc.org.uk
Shir Hatzafon (Copenhagen) E: shir@shirhatzafon.dk W: shirhatzafon.dk
South Bucks Jewish Community T: 07377 157 261 E: info@sbjc.org.uk W: sbjc.org.uk
Southgate Progressive Synagogue T: 020 8886 0977 E: office@sps.uk.com W: sps.uk.com
The South London Liberal Synagogue (Streatham) T: 020 8769 4787
E: office@southlondon.org W: southlondon.org
Stevenage Liberal Synagogue T: 01438 300 222
E: stevenageliberalsynagogue@gmail.com W: stevenageliberalsynagogue.org.uk
Suffolk Liberal Jewish Community (Ipswich) T:01473 250 797
E: sljc@liberaljudaism.org
W: suffolkljc.co.uk
Three Counties Liberal Jewish Community (Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire)
T: 07900 612 058
E: info@3cljc.org.uk
W: 3cljc.org.uk
Wessex Liberal Jewish Community (Bournemouth) T: 01202 757 590
E: secretary.wljc@gmail.com
W: wessexliberaljudaism.org.uk
York Liberal Jewish Community T: 0300 102 0062
E: info@jewsinyork.org.uk
W: jewsinyork.org.uk
Affiliated
Oxford Jewish Congregation T: 01865 515 584
E: connections@ojc-online.org W: ojc-online.org
Chair Karen Newman
Deputy Chair Alex Kinchin-Smith Treasurer Leslie Moss Inclusion Alexandra Boyd
Youth Hannah Grant Communities and Social Justice Owen Power
Officers Penny Beral, Amanda McFeeters and Tommer Spence
President Rabbi Alexandra Wright
Vice Presidents Monique Blake, Nigel Cole, Lord (Stanley) Fink, Louise Freedman, Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein, Sharon Goldstein, Jane Greenfield, Lucian Hudson, Dr Edward Kessler MBE, Josie Kinchin, David Lipman, Frank Maxwell, Baroness (Gillian) Merron, David Pick, Rabbi Danny Rich, Tony Sacker, Joan Shopper and Phil Stone
Conference of Liberal Rabbis and Cantors Chairs Rabbi Anna Wolfson and Rabbi Igor Zinkov
Chief Executive Officer / Progressive Judaism Co-Lead Rabbi Charley Baginsky
Director of Development and Membership Alexandra Gellnick Youth Director Becca Fetterman
Head of Comms Simon Rothstein Lifecycle Administrator Lisa Godsal Finance Janet Manderson
Administration Manager Tanya Garfield Archivist Alison Turner Student Chaplain Rabbi Leah Jordan
LJY-Netzer Events Coordinator Jess Mindel
LJY-Netzer Movement Workers Tali Ehrlich, Mia Harris and Jess Spanier