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Home , Barbara Borts, Birthday, Chidush, Danny Rich (rabbi), Jackie Tabick, Jewish News

January/ 2016 VOL. XLIII No. 1

Liberal is a constituent of the World Union for Progressive Judaism

www.liberaljudaism.org ljtoday Happy birthday Harry Day NE OF Liberal Judaism’s most The (LJS) Award for NPLS beloved, and senior, service was taken by two of Harry’s Ocelebrated his 90th birthday with children, Rabbis Dr Margaret and Richard special services and kiddushim held at Jacobi, along with LJS senior , communities all over the UK. Rabbi Alexandra Wright. Harry gave the Rabbi Harry Jacobi was joined by sermon. Others in attendance included friends, family and Liberal Judaism Simon Benscher and Rabbi , members at events at The Liberal Jewish the chair and senior rabbi of Liberal Synagogue, Woodford Liberal Synagogue, Judaism, Rabbi Rachel Benjamin and Birmingham Progressive Synagogue, Rabbi Dr David Goldberg. Southgate Progressive Synagogue, At the end of the service, Harry was Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue visibly moved as his young granddaughter and South Bucks Jewish Community. Tali presented him with a Festschrift Harry, who was born as Heinz Martin written in his honour. The book, reviewed Hirschberg in October 1925, and grew on page 10 of this issue of lj today, was up in Auerbach, Germany, twice fled the edited by Rabbi Danny Rich and features Nazis to become one of Britain’s most contributions from leading Progressive NORTHWOOD & PINNER LIBERAL respected and inspiring religious leaders. Jewish rabbis and thinkers. Another SYNAGOGUE (NPLS) won this year’s granddaughter, Abigail, Mitzvah Day Award for Interfaith wrote the biography Partnership of the Year. The trophy was that opens the book. presented to Rabbi Aaron Goldstein and During the volunteer Marsha Myers, by Mitzvah Day LJS , founder Laura Marks and interfaith chair representatives from Daniela Pears (pictured above). the European Union for It was given in recognition of the Progressive Judaism synagogue’s incredible work acting as honoured Harry and a hub for local faith communities to announced that a new donate materials to refugees, which were fund had been set up delivered through the Wycombe Islamic in his name to send a Society. The judging panel – which child to summer camp included Daniela, Luciana Berger MP in Haifa each year. and Jewish News editor Richard Ferrer Harry said: “I am – especially praised the ‘Refugees are overwhelmed with Welcome’ Mitzvah Day event at NPLS, gratitude. It is just which saw an entire day of collections wonderful what and talks in conjunction with human everyone has done rights charity René Cassin. for me. I think about Speakers included Thiru, a member of Esther, Chapter 9, the Freed Voices group who has recently Verse 22: Miyagon been through the British detention lesimcha u’me-evel system, and Fritz Lustig, a 96 year old leyom tov - thanking German Jew who was interned in the UK God that I have gone during the Second World War. from sorrow to joy and from mourning to a • See all the amazing Liberal Judaism Rabbis Dr Margaret, Harry and Richard Jacobi celebrate at the LJS .” Mitzvah Day pictures on pages 6-7. Page 2 LJ Today Events January/February 2016 Away from home: conferences and Kallah

As I write this, I have Rabbi Dr Andrew just arrived at another Goldstein on annual residential – Liberal Judaism’s three key events Rabbinic Kallah shaping LJ and (pictured right). By the offering plenty of way, the name Kallah has nothing to do with fun and food the Hebrew word for a bride, but goes back to the rabbinic gatherings THE NEXT YEAR will see two important instituted in Babylon in conferences held in the UK – that of the the third century. It is European Union for Progressive Judaism said that they often lasted for two months in a huge hall. It seemed impressive, but (EUPJ) in April in London and then the with thousands of rabbis in attendance. I soon realised that only the two nearest Liberal Judaism Biennial Weekend in This modern Kallah – alas only 20 of us the fire kept warm, everyone else froze, Solihull in July. meeting for three days – sees discussions but all seemed happy. Then came dinner Both are opportunities to meet Jews around aspects of prayer and the Liberal and, I do not exaggerate, it consisted of from a range of communities in this liturgy; further preparation to considering one poached egg on half a piece of toast. country and Europe, learn new ideas and, a new . No doubt the ancient We protested but the monks said we had above all, that injection of enthusiasm Babylonian gatherings also had their eaten our main meal (which I missed) at on offer when we meet residentially social aspects, as will our Kallah and lunch time. Well this was not acceptable for a few days. Then there is the social forthcoming conferences. to a bunch of rabbis and so the late interaction that, frankly, is often more I recall one Kallah, decades ago, held at Rabbi Lawrence Rigal was sent off, on important than the actual programme. a monastery in Shropshire. My car broke his scooter, to find a fish and chip shop - I hope to see you at one or both of these down on the way up and when I arrived, returning with some life-saving food. – so please do register now. The details of in the late afternoon, it was already dark. This year we are once more at Charney the Liberal Judaism Biennial are directly The monastery was sited in a former Manor in Oxfordshire. The only problem is below this article. For more on the EUPJ baronial mansion and I entered to find my that there is too much good food on offer. event, go to www.tinyurl.com/eupj2016 colleagues seated around a blazing fire It’s not easy being a Liberal rabbi! Why we love the Liberal Judaism Biennial

LIBERAL JUDAISM’S Biennial Weekend, And, in case you are still deciding Whether this will be your first Biennial, the biggest event in our movement’s whether or not to attend, we wanted to or you’re a regular like me, I promise you calendar, will take place from July 1-3 in share with you two musings – one from will leave this open and welcoming event the West Midlands, but TODAY is the best a seasoned Biennial attendee, the other with a buzz and sense of pride. time to book your place. from a first timer: We are pleased to announce that our Shaya Goldstein Early Bird Prices are even LOWER than Tony Sacker before - just £250 for adults, £60 for Having attended my first Biennial in 2014, students and children aged 5-16 and £40 I can’t remember when I attended my along with my family, I was very excited for those under 5. These offers will end first Biennial, but it was around 1984. I to hear that the date for the next one has on , when prices will go up to haven’t missed one since! been set for July 1-3, 2016. £310 for adults, £100 for children aged Some ask, what’s the attraction? I At the last event, I got to make new 5-16 and £60 for those under 5. Student answer that there are many. The Biennial friends from Liberal synagogues in tickets will remain at £60. Weekend is a chance to catch up with different parts of the country. Every The rate is per person and includes old friends, to study, to have fun, to learn morning we had breakfast together, accommodation, all meals and something new, to relax, to listen to talking about the fun activities and materials. Delegates will also receive world-renowned speakers, musicians interesting sessions that were coming up. complimentary access to the health club, and artists, to become exhausted and to Last time, my favourite icebreaker was swimming pool and spa at the St Johns be part of the wider LJ family. throwing a ball around the group to get to Hotel, which is hosting our conference. I was there when Siddur Lev know each other’s names, personalities You can book at www.tinyurl.com/ was launched in the early 1990s and this and favourite ice cream. bien2016 or by calling Aaron at Liberal year’s delegates will now get to be part of We saw our families at meal times but Judaism’s head office on 020 7631 9830. the initial thinking of what a new Liberal otherwise had our own space, including We can also offer 15 communities Jewish siddur may look like. our own bedtime stories. We even got to the chance to send a first time Biennial With the theme ‘Thinking Outside the keep the Hebrew story books. In our free attendee, with an interest in service or Book’, and tracks on music, social action time we went swimming with our friends music leadership, for the bargain price of and spirituality to name but a few, this or could spend time as a family. £50. Please nominate your candidate, by year’s conference is shaping up to be one I hope that other families will come to emailing [email protected] of the best yet. the Biennial to share this experience. January/February 2016 Chaplaincy LJ Today Page 3 Highlights from Rabbi Leah’s autumn diary Rabbi Leah Jordan reports on her student and young adult work around the UK

September 30: Lunch & Learn, Leeds October 30-31: , Durham November 5 and 19: Takum Progressivi, Kicking off the first week of university London term time, 20 students and I packed into the Leeds JSoc sukkah for two hours to read about, and debate, Jewish thinking on the meaning of and Zion. Students from across the spectrum attended: from LJY-Netzer members, whom I know well from two summers as welfare officer on Kadimah summer camp, through to an ex-Haredi young . The LJY student leaders then Takum Progressivi, a Liberal and Reform accompanied me back to the station, as I Judaism Alliance fortnightly dinner, continued to hear about life on campus. social action and study group for young adults (pictured above) has relaunched October 3: Sukkot Resettlement Action, Liberal Judaism’s senior rabbi, Rabbi for its second year. It is hosted by me and Norwich Danny Rich (pictured above - centre), my husband, Rabbi Benji Stanley, who Along with my student and young adult and I visited Durham University together is the Movement for ’s work, I am the rabbi of the thriving for the last Shabbat in October. On the young adult development rabbi. The Norwich Liberal Jewish Community Friday evening, we hosted a Middle participants chose the topic of ‘migrants, (NLJC) in Norfolk, with upwards of 50 Eastern themed dinner for the JSoc, a asylum seekers and borders’ as their members, where I also liaise with the regular group of around 20. On Saturday, key interest. I led the first session on small University of East Anglia JSoc I hosted a bagel Lunch & Learn with a treatment and views of the Other in the and its students. As part of a campaign dozen students and presented them with , while we were lucky to be joined of similar actions led by other Liberal a Shabbat kit - which include siddurim by Rabbi Danny Rich for the next dinner. communities around the country, I am so booklets, study packs, candles and candle Danny discussed both the Jewish and proud to say that NLJC gathered more holders, a mini bottle of kiddush wine, policy aspects of refugee resettlement than 130 people, including at least 20 challah recipe and yeast packet, Havdalah campaigning, before taking questions. students from the UEA, together for a spice bag, candle and blessings and even Sukkot service in our community-built a £50 food voucher for Shabbat dinner. November 20-21: Egalitarian , sukkah where a multi-faith Sanctuary Cambridge Norfolk delegation asked Norfolk County November 5: Songs of Praise, London As part of LJ Students’ support of Council to finally commit to welcoming 50 Progressive Jewish life on campuses, Syrian refugee families to Norfolk. The we annually fund a small budget for momentum created by the event is such Cambridge Egalitarian Minyan, a that this should soon be a reality. Progressive Jewish society for students. I was invited by their coordinator, a October 23: Egalitarian Minyan, London Liberal Jewish Synagogue member, to teach and spend Shabbat with them. As I keep finding with my campus visits, the students are so happy to have a chaplain visit, especially a young, Liberal one.

November 27-28: (UJS) Training Summit, In an early Mitzvah Day project at JW3, Carnforth filmed for Songs of Praise during For perhaps the first time ever, the UJS Interfaith Week, I was part of a Jewish/ invited two chaplains to its yearly Training Christian team making food to go to Summit for incoming JSoc committees all the homeless shelter at King’s Cross the across the country – and one of them One of the most exciting things that Methodist Church. LSE’s Christian was a Liberal rabbi. For every Orthodox the Montagu Centre plays host to is the chaplain and one of my London service over the Shabbat, we had between fortnightly London Students Egalitarian chaplaincy counterparts, Reverend Dr 15 and 25 Progressive students praying in Minyan, a home for Progressive Jewish James Walters, as well as Christian and our ‘Egal’ service next door, including the students from all of London’s universities Jewish students, were on hand to help chief executive of the UJS, David Brown, who want an alternative to the Orthodox- make traditional Jewish strudel and and the UJS national president, Hannah led services at London JSocs. I join mince pies (pictured above). Brady. The UJS also themed much of them for at least one service a month Interfaith work is an important part of their Training Summit around inclusivity, throughout the year, bringing our brand being a student chaplain on Britain’s which included discussion and learning new Liberal Judaism Shabbat kits multicultural campuses, especially as about the denominations in Judaism, as (pictured above), annual Chanukkah JSocs interact with the larger religious well as Keshet UK coming in to speak packs, divrei Torah and pastoral support. bodies on campus. about LGBT inclusivity. Page 4 LJ Today Communities January/February 2016 Babies, birthdays and batmitzvahs

Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue welcomed 14 children in a Woodford Liberal Synagogue celebrated a combined 178th birthday communal baby blessing. As well as members whose children may for Rabbi Harry Jacobi and WLS life president Peter Benscher. have had a personal blessing, the annual event lets grandparents Peter was accompanied by wife Betty and four generations of his celebrate with family who may be members of other shuls or none family (pictured above) – including Liberal Judaism chair Simon

Gloucestershire Liberal Jewish Community welcomed Trish Bluett The growing community of Tikvah Chadasha in Brentwood, Essex, to the Jewish faith with the community’s first ever adult batmitzvah celebrated a treble batmitzvah for three women who had missed out ceremony. GLJC also used, for the firs time, the old and valuable earlier in life. Community chair Amanda Burke was the first to be Scrolls that are on loan from the Cheltenham Hebrew Community called to the Torah, followed by Joanna Slaney and Kata Roberts

Czech mates BPS birthday LJS quiz triumph

TWENTY-FIVE members of Nottingham BIRMINGHAM PROGRESSIVE A TEAM from The Liberal Jewish Liberal Synagogue (NLS), including Rabbi SYNAGOGUE (BPS) was full to Synagogue (LJS) won this year’s annual Tanya Sakhnovich, made their 10th trip capacity for a Shabbat kiddush LJ Quiz, in one of the closest ever to the Czech Republic to visit the town to celebrate the 80th birthday of results. The host side (pictured above) that NLS is linked to via a Torah scroll - president Frank Maxwell. finished just one point ahead of three Slavkov, formerly known as Austerlitz. Chair Val Harrison said: “We thank runners-up, with Northwood & Pinner The highlight of the visit was meeting Frank for all that he does and value Liberal Synagogue, Finchley Progressive the town’s only pre-war surviving Jewish the full part he plays as president.” Synagogue and Kingston Liberal resident, Ruth Matiovska. Synagogue all tying in second place. January/February 2016 News LJ Today Page 5 Spectacular diversity showcase Farewell Yael Surat-Shaan Knan on the Ritual Reconstructed event LIBERAL JUDAISM’S head office said goodbye to one of the movement’s most popular staff members this month, as Yael Shotts left to take up a position at Radlett Reform Liberal rabbis discuss Queering Theology and a new play previews, pictures by Mary Humphrey Synagogue. Yael joined Liberal Judaism eight years THE CULMINATION of a year-long The event’s grand finale was the ago, working first as Rabbi Danny Rich’s research project, Ritual Reconstructed, world premiere screening of the Ritual PA before becoming services manager. saw rabbis, artists, film-makers and Reconstructed mini documentary series Danny, the senior rabbi of Liberal playwrights participate in an interactive on Jewish LGBTQI rituals in the UK. Judaism, said: “Yael was someone who bricolage “happening” of ritual objects, Rabbi Danny Rich, senior rabbi of could do it all - from leading on and photographs, poetry, drama, storytelling Liberal Judaism – who alongside Rabbis managing Liberal Judaism’s major events and rabbinic dialogue. Mark Solomon, Elli Tikvah Sarah and to looking after The Board of National Taking place at JW3, the event explored Janet Darley took part in a round-table Officers to writing songs for our staff faith rituals which combine both Jewish discussion on Queering Theology – . We will all really miss her.” and LGBTQI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, stressed: “This what the Liberal Jewish transgender, queer/questioning & movement is all about: giving a voice • TWO LANDMARK Liberal Judaism intersex) identities. and increasing visibility. We hope the LGBTQI events are set for early 2016. The afternoon kicked off with a walk- outcomes of Ritual Reconstructed will The Twilight People touring exhibition through photographic exhibition by Mary pave the way for more such initiatives.” - a pioneering diversity project exploring Humphrey – who came to the project as Ritual Reconstructed is funded by the the ‘hidden history’ of transgender people a “curious Catholic”. Her colourful and Arts and Humanities Research Council of faith - runs from February 5 until evocative photographs show people, ritual through the Connected Communities March 5 at the Islington Museum. Get the objects, and lifecycle events through a stream and consists of a collaborative full details from www.twilightpeople.com queer Jewish lens. partnership between Buckinghamshire Through a Queer Lens: Portraits of Another highlight saw Tom Ross- New University, the University of LGBT Jews, an exhibition by fine art Williams performing a scene from Portsmouth, the Centre for Trust, photographer Ajamu, will be hosted emerging playwright Stephen Laughton’s Peace and Social Relations at Coventry by the from Run, about a rebellious 17 year old gay University and Liberal Judaism. Find out February 11 until April 17. For more, visit Jewish Orthodox boy in love. more at www.ritualreconstructed.com www.jewishmuseum.org.uk/LGBTQ-Jews Are you a Jew Coming together to remember by choice? By Jeromé Freedman The number of WWII veterans inevitably diminishes each year but AUTHOR Chava Fleming is planning THE ANNUAL AJEX Remembrance there were many second, and even to publish an e-book on the stories of Ceremony and Parade at the third, generation family members those who are ‘Jews by choice’, either Cenotaph in Whitehall on November amongst the marchers proudly through a formal process of conversion or 15 was conducted by Chief Rabbi wearing, on the left breast, the medals rediscovery of their Jewish roots. Ephraim Mirvis, Rabbi Major Reuben and awards of those no longer with us. Chava told lj today: “The purpose of Livingstone, principal Jewish chaplain As was the arrangement at the collecting personal stories is to assist to HM Forces and, yet again, by Rabbi national memorial event on the others in their search to find out more Harry Jacobi of Liberal Judaism and previous Sunday, to reduce the information about conversion to Judaism. formerly also a chaplain to HM Forces. duration of wreath laying, the majority People now look initially to the internet The Reviewing Officer was Field of the wreaths were laid in twos and for help, long before any approach is Marshal Lord Guthrie of Craigiebank. threes but there was still a total of 14, made to a rabbi or a Jewish community. The many UK AJEX branches in commemorating both World Wars and This will be the first free international the parade were headed by a small also the Shoah. electronic book available to all.” but significant group from France As always, it was a very moving If you have a story to share, please that received a loud and considerable occasion and, perhaps, especially so on email [email protected] to find accolade from all the spectators, to hearing Rabbi Harry Jacobi intoning the out more about the project. All emails are demonstrate their warm support in the El malei rachamim (prayer for the ) treated in strictest confidence and stories light of the terrorist atrocities in Paris. as he has done for a number of years. will be published anonymously. Page 6 LJ Today January/February 2016 Mitzvah Day 2015 in pictures

Bet Tikvah Synagogue invited elderly members of the community Rabbi Danny Rich and the Liberal Judaism staff team helped for lunch and a talk on the history of Jews in the East End of London prepare lunch for 70 people at a nearby church’s soup kitchen

Edinburgh Liberal Jewish Community did gardening at Tiphereth, The Mosaic Community collected clothes, packed boxes and which provides services for people with learning disabilities donated saliva in order to be added to the Stem Cell Register

The Liberal Jewish Synagogue collected and wrapped presents for Anne Szewczyk and Wessex Liberal Jewish Community collected refugee children alongside members of three other faiths four car loads of goods for the Salvation Army’s refugee appeal

Beit Klal Yisrael supported four charities by helping pack and Kingston Liberal Synagogue and Kingston Interfaith Friends tidied deliver 80 care packages to vulnerable older people in Notting Hill up the garden of Welcare House, which supports local parents January/February 2016 LJ Today Page 7 Mitzvah Day 2015 in pictures

Nottingham Liberal Synagogue spent the day at Salaam Shalom Woodford Liberal Synagogue did some gardening at Haven House Kitchen – a Muslim/Jewish project helping local people in need Children’s Hospice, as well collecting for Jason Lee House

South London Liberal Synagogue volunteered at Nightingale House, Leicester Progressive Jewish Congregation put on a Mitzvah Day a residential, nursing and dementia care home for Jewish people challah bake, with all the bread going to a city centre food bank

York Liberal Jewish Community spent Mitzvah Day collecting for Stevenage Liberal Synagogue gave a wonderful afternoon tea for York’s Food Bank and Carecent charities outside Sainsbury’s the disabled residents of the Leonard Cheshire Home in Hitchin

Brighton & Hove Progressive Synagogue organised a sponsored Oxford Jewish Congregation knitted hats and bodysuits for walk, with members of all ages walking 3.5 miles in aid of refugees premature babies, as well as making cards for children in hospital Page 8 LJ Today NewsComment January/February 2016 Standing up for you A Liberal input By Gabriel Webber Gillian Merron on the work of the Board of Deputies FOR THE FIRST time in history, both of IF THE Board of As a former member of Liberal Liberal Judaism’s representatives on the Deputies of British Judaism’s Council, I am delighted to Board of Deputies have been elected to Jews did not exist, address Liberal Judaism members and sit on its executive committee. we would have communities around the country on what Stuart MacDonald is the treasurer, to invent it. As the Board does. I was gratified to hear and I’ve just been voted into one of four the voice of UK the account of a woman who attended ‘backbench’ places at the top table. This Jewry since our a recent talk I gave. She wrote: “What I is an important step in our movement’s establishment in did not expect was to be so thoroughly ability to contribute to what is the single 1760, we are the impressed by what the Board of Deputies democratic ‘Parliament of the Jews’. only body that is is up to. I freely admitted on the day that The need for us to contribute to the democratically I have been one of those who withhold Board is partly about solidarity. We elected and based on cross-communal their Board of Deputies contribution, are part of what has been called ‘a grassroots representation. As such, we on the grounds that in my view it was community of communities’, and while we are the first port of call for Government, an irrelevant talking shop for boring old differ on many issues, we can still defend media and others who seek to understand men. But I was struck by the depth and each other’s right to their own way of life. the community’s interests and concerns. breadth of activity and I am now much So while Liberals may not care about We pride ourselves on our more inclined to make my contribution.” whether their employers would let them representative and democratic So how are we funded? Well, like take off two days for Rosh Hashanah, we structures. There is no single Jewish others, we fundraise and receive support Orthodox Jews’ freedom to do view, but we seek to represent as much of donations, but by far our most important just that, and stand with the Board in its a consensus as possible. income stream is from the ‘communal work for freedom of religion. It is one thing being representative contribution’. This year it will be £30 per Just as important is the fact that, in and another to be effective. We use the household, which is a £5 increase over Anglo-Jewry, the president of the Board resources at our disposal to achieve a 2015 – the first rise for 10 years. We, the is our spokesperson to the non-Jewish huge amount in diverse areas. To give just community, have to pay for our voice, but world. Sometimes we disagree with a few examples, these currently include the great news is that it doesn’t cost very a line that is taken. But if we have no contributing to pan-European efforts much. The contribution we ask for comes standing in the Board, we won’t be able to to confront extremism, supporting the down to 57p per household per week. influence the message that is sent out. Muslim/Jewish women’s social action It is usual for communities to include As a Liberal Jew I want to see a Board network Nisa-Nashim, educational the ‘communal contribution’ on its that focuses not purely on the defensive – work and backing Jewish Women’s Aid’s invoice. If you cannot find it on yours, just protecting , targeting antisemitism campaign to counter domestic abuse. let your community know or contact me. – but also on positivity: social action, This is just the tip of a large iceberg. Liberal Judaism has long been youth, interfaith work. Our work extends into communities big an important constituent part of the We can bring about change, but only and small and we rely on you to provide Board and we would like to see even by joining forces and contributing and us with representation and to tell us what more of you. In a historic act, my own committing fully. As Gillian writes beside we need to be doing. small yet thriving Liberal community in me, the Board relies on a ‘communal One example of this came recently Lincolnshire recently voted to join the contribution’ from Jewish households, via in Nottingham, where the Liberal Board, paying their dues and taking part. their synagogues, to operate. It does good community came together with the The more this happens, the stronger work and deserves funding. Hebrew Congregation and the Board and more representative we will be. The standing of the Liberal movement to successfully counter moves on depends on us showing commitment, not Nottingham Council to institute an Israel • Gillian Merron is chief executive of the just by sending people like me and Stuart boycott policy. This kind of action is Board of Deputies. She can be contacted to meetings, but by offering practical happening up and down the country. by emailing [email protected] support for the organisation’s work.

IN NOVEMBER, Liberal Judaism’s We express our solidarity with the and none, to endorse the values of senior rabbi, Rabbi Danny Rich, joined residents of Paris and the citizens of pluralism and democracy which require hundreds of people of all faiths, and France for whom this is the second respect for the rule of law and the none, coming together at a Citizens UK outrage in 2015. It is an attack on the rejection of terror. Acts of terror: ‘Not in vigil to condemn the attacks in Paris freedoms and ethical way of life - at Our Name’. and show support for the people there. the heart of Jewish teaching - by which Eternal God, as we appreciate the Danny offered the following prayer: Jews in every country would seek to live. world is a partnership between You We commend the efforts of all of and humanity so do we call for the Our thoughts and prayers go to the those in public service who tend the unity of all people of compassion and families and friends of those who were wounded, comfort the bereaved, protect decency to fulfil the vision expressed in brutally murdered in Paris. They, like so the vulnerable and work to pursue the the metaphorical hope of the Biblical many others around the globe, are the perpetrators. Hebrew Prophet, Micah (4:4): “And each victims of what sometimes appears to We call upon Jews, Christians, shall sit under their vine and fig tree, be on-going evil acts of terror. Muslims, Hindus and those of all faiths, and none shall make them afraid.” January/February 2016 Comment LJ Today Page 9 Who wants to ‘Our father, inspiration and guide’ be a lay leader? Rabbi Dr Margaret Jacobi continues Harry’s life story

LIBERAL JUDAISM’S Ba’alei Tefillah Harry and Rose settled in London, lay leadership programme goes from where he became first lay reader and strength to strength with each new then – following his ordination as a cohort. Regular days of learning include reverend in 1961 – minister of Southgate sessions on all aspects of liturgy, service Progressive Synagogue (SPS). Under his leading, divrei Torah writing and even how leadership, SPS grew to a membership to lift the Scrolls for Hagba. There’s also of 800 with a large cheder and a range of a residential weekend of study, practice youth groups, which still thrive today. and bonding at a beautiful retreat centre Despite his congregational work and in the countryside. three children, Harry made time to But how do the participants feel on the complete his rabbinic dissertation and course and what do they get out of it? attained the title rabbi in 1971. In 1975, Below, two of the current Ba’alei Tefillah he was invited to move to Wembley class explain how they are getting on: Harry Jacobi (centre) at his induction at Liberal Synagogue (now Mosaic Liberal Southgate Progressive Synagogue in 1961 Synagogue), where he was again an Richard Allen Greene (Finchley innovative rabbi whose pastoral support Progressive Synagogue) IN THE LAST edition of lj today, my is remembered with great appreciation. brother Rabbi Richard Jacobi wrote about By 1982, with all three children Several things worried me before I the first 15 years of the life of our father, having left home, the possibility came of started Ba’alei Tefillah. Was my Hebrew Rabbi Harry Jacobi. This article seeks to returning to continental Europe – which up to it? How much homework would cover the next 75. Whilst not as fraught needed German-speaking rabbis. Harry there be? Would my congregation be with danger, they have certainly been moved to Zurich, developing a new disappointed to see me on the bimah equally eventful. congregation at a very exciting time. instead of our popular rabbi? After fleeing from Nazi Europe as a Among other achievements, he worked But what scared me more than teenager, my father eventually arrived on a new German Progressive siddur anything was the idea of reading directly safely in Manchester. There, he found a and developed links with the other from the Torah. The last time I did that home in a hostel for Jewish refugees, Swiss congregations. He also worked was at my barmitzvah. I’m not going to where he edited the hostel newspaper, with colleagues throughout continental say exactly when that was, but Margaret became an apprentice motor mechanic Europe, via the European Union for Thatcher was the Prime Minister. and discovered a lifetime love of classical Progressive Judaism (EUPJ), with whom Since I started in January, I’ve done music through Hallé Orchestra concerts. he still retains a strong involvement. all those things that frightened me Today, he still treasures friendships with In 1989, nearing retirement age, Harry surrounded by an engaged and inspiring other boys from the hostel. took his first ever sabbatical – spending array of Liberal Jews from all over the As soon as he could, Harry joined the a happy few months in Israel with Rose. country, and led by a supportive group of Jewish Brigade. He served officially as But, like for many in our movement, rabbis and former students. an interpreter, but also ended up helping ‘retirement’ did not mean stopping work. The course has given me a chance the Haganah (the forerunner to the Israel Immediately on their return to Britain, to delve more deeply into Judaism, Defense Forces). Harry came back to his ‘spiritual home’ taught me things about myself and our Later, he joined his uncle briefly in his of Liberal Judaism. He took on the part- traditions, and given me a new group of textile business but it wasn’t for him. time pulpit of South Bucks, where he is friends. I’m glad I didn’t let my worries Harry was considering making aliyah, now an emeritus rabbi, as he is also of keep me from signing up. when he attended the World Union for SPS. He also became chair of Liberal Progressive Judaism (WUPJ) Conference Judaism’s Rabbinic Board (now Beit Din). Joel Drouet (Norwich Liberal in London in 1949. There, he heard Leo Ten years ago, at the age of 80, my Jewish Community) Baeck’s presidential address, calling father felt it was time to step down for help in rebuilding Jewish life, and from the Beit Din – but the last decade I have been on the Ba’alei Tefillah course he decided instead to become a rabbi. has seen him as busy as ever. He for the past year and have found it a With the support of , one of enjoys his role as a vice president of rewarding experience. I have enjoyed the founders of Liberal Judaism, Harry Liberal Judaism and attends both the opportunity to meet and work with became a lay reader in Aberdeen, where Rabbinic Conference and LJ Council fellow Liberal Jews from all over the UK, he was able to start his Hebrew studies. meetings regularly. He is also an studying and discussing the rich tradition Harry’s stay in Aberdeen was to change honorary president of Jewish Child’s and meaning of Jewish liturgy and its role his life in another way. He decided to Day, representing Liberal Judaism. In in the modern Jewish communities. correspond through a WUPJ scheme with between, he plays Scrabble and bridge The material is presented in modules a young woman from Bombay called Rose with the many friends he has made in our for study and reflection. We learn about Solomon. When she came to London for movement over the last 60 years. the essential elements of the Jewish the wedding of a friend, Harry proposed My father has faced the loss of prayer service, the sequence and flow and Rose flew back the following year to his beloved Rose and the illness of of the service, and ways in which we can marry him. Nine months later I arrived, our brother David with fortitude and serve our communities as informed and to be followed by Richard and our brother continues to love life and look forward engaged members. David. Rose was to be my father’s to the future. For Richard and me, he It’s also a lot of fun! constant support for the next 50 years. remains our inspiration and guide. Page 10 LJ Today Books January/February 2016 Honouring a beloved rabbi A worthy tribute WOMEN RABBIS IN THE PULPIT – RESPONDING TO THE CALL: A LIFE OF LIBERAL JEWISH A COLLECTION OF SERMONS COMMITMENT edited by Rabbi Danny Rich ISBN: 9780988053939 ISBN: 9780993445804 Reviewed by LUCIAN J HUDSON Reviewed by LOUISE FREEDMAN

THE FESTSCHRIFT is a clever literary like Harry he spent 70 years devoted to EDITED BY Rabbis Dr invention: a joyous and erudite way of serving the Jewish people and he was an and honouring a person’s life and work. active congregational rabbi.” Elli Tikvah Sarah, with Rather like Progressive Judaism itself, This tribute to Harry - wonderfully a foreword by Rabbi it gives rise to self-definition within a compiled and edited by Rabbi Danny Rich Sally J Priesand, tradition, revealing truths about the - is a tribute to an exceptional generation. Women Rabbis in the person being honoured, the author of Rabbi Dr Margaret Jacobi says that her Pulpit - A Collection of the essay and the chosen object of study. father’s generation built up a more equal Sermons, marks the It also invites readers to reflect on their country after the war where, for a brief 80th anniversary of the own experience of the subject. period, homelessness was rare. ordination of the first My earliest memory of Rabbi Harry The book not only addresses the past, woman rabbi, Rabbi Jacobi was going before the Rabbinic but also the present and future. Rabbi , and the 40th anniversary of Board (now Beit Din) for my conversion to asks what makes a Jew, the ordination of Rabbi Dr , Liberal Judaism 10 years ago. Harry said while Rabbi Frank Hellner makes a the first woman in Britain and Europe the least of all the panel members, yet powerful case against binary concepts ordained as a Rabbi after the Shoah. his quiet, friendly attention touched me, of Jewish identity, writing: “Today, With contributions from 46 Progressive making me feel welcome and valued. neither patrilineality nor matrilineality women rabbis in the UK, Europe, North In a subtle but effective way, Harry is sufficient to embrace the complexities America and , this landmark challenges the usual expectations of and realities of modern life. Both are publication captures the words of women leadership. His type of leadership is relics of the past.” Frank argues that rabbis in the pulpit through their diverse measured by the degree to which others we need now to move on to a concept of sermons and brings their voices to a are inspired by him and follow him. ‘bilineality’ which recognises that a child wider audience. Two of his children, Richard and born to a Jewish parent, irrespective of Reviewing this book has been a Margaret, followed him into the whether that parent is a man or woman, pleasure. It was almost impossible to rabbinate. Richard’s thought-provoking has a presumptive Jewish status which put down – not only because the time essay on the value and purpose of prayer can be confirmed if raised, educated and allowed for review was so short – but throws light on his father’s spiritual is identified as a Jew. because the content was so engaging and routine, as well making the vital link Rabbi Dr David Goldberg adopts a of a high standard. I expected to read of with Progressive Judaism’s post-war political perspective on the evolution of angels but not of necessarily spiders! The leadership. Richard writes of his father: British Progressive Judaism. He notes content entertained, educated, moved “Since that moment when he heard that the scars from the failed merger and amused. Rabbi ’s presidential address negotiations involving Reform and Liberal The sermons are arranged into to the 1949 World Union Conference, Judaism “took a long time to heal and sections: Living a Jewish Life; Being he committed himself to Progressive soured perceptions of each other’s Human; God and Spirituality; Responses – and especially Liberal – Judaism. motives for years to come” but adds that and Responsibility to the World; The touchstone for him throughout all “now, 30 years later, under fresh rabbinic Feminism and Gender; Life and Loss. this time has been his commitment to and lay leadership... another LJ–MRJ Of the 55 women rabbis who have personal and communal prayer.” rapprochement is being attempted.” been ordained under the auspices of Leo This book reflects how much Harry has My favourite essay is the one by Rabbi Baeck College (LBC), more than 40 have been an influence for good in so many Dr Charles Middleburgh, in which he sets offered a chosen sermon and it was good lives, despite or because of the trials out why Jeremiah is the prophet who to ‘listen’ to so many varied and personal and tribulations that his generation lived speaks to his innermost soul. Jeremiah thoughts, which also had the ability both through over the past century. One cannot as a figure is close to a rabbi’s heart, as to move and inspire. read this volume of essays and not feel Charles says: “No other biblical figure The introductions to each chapter inspired by Harry’s halo effect. presents so powerfully the price we all in many cases gave a glimpse into the However long one has known him for, pay in the infinitely complex task of giving background and personality of the writer. Harry leaves his mark. Rabbi Rachel leadership to the Jewish people. No There are also tributes in memory of Benjamin describe him as “a role model… other biblical figure better than Jeremiah Rabbi and Rabbi Erlene facing life’s challenges and looking them reflects the pain, distress and deep Wahlhaus. At the end of the book is a list in the face, but never losing one’s faith, depression that many communal leaders of all women rabbis ordained by LBC. motivation and positivity.” can encounter.” This book is a worthy tribute to Rabbi Andrew Goldstein, Liberal This collection is a testament to the celebrate Rabbis Regina Jonas and Dr Judaism’s president, is inspired to write character and spirit of one of our most Jackie Tabick. I recommend you to read about the leading Czech Rabbi Dr Richard respected and loved rabbis. ‘their diverse sermons’ and to become Feder, whose life and achievements one of the ‘wider audience’. remind him of Harry’s. Andrew writes: • Copies of this Festschrift are available “Like Harry, he faced difficulties in his by calling Liberal Judaism on 020 7286 • This book is available in print for £9.99 and youth, but persevered and became a 5181. Lucian J Hudson is deputy chair of digital PDF download for £5.99 from Kulmus rabbi; like Harry he suffered in the Shoah; Liberal Judaism. via www.lulu.com January/February 2016 Youth LJ Today Page 11

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LJY-NETZER is proud to launch Israel And whether this will be your first LJY- educate on and look at the politics and Tour 2016, our youth movement’s annual Netzer event, or your 20th, you will be history of the state of Israel. trip that sends around 40 young people, welcomed with open arms. LJY-Netzer Israel Tour truly does offer who have just finished their GCSEs, to This trip will give you the chance to something for everyone. Not only will you Israel for a month to explore the country, explore the desert, kayak down the discover more about yourself and bond as Zionism and their Jewish identity. Jordan river, experience modern Israeli a group, you will have the opportunity to LJY-Netzer Israel Tour is an amazing culture in Tel Aviv and discover a special develop your leadership skills and meet opportunity to spend the summer of a spirituality in Jerusalem. loads of new people. lifetime in Israel, discovering the land LJY-Netzer Israel Tour is unique in Generations of 16 year olds across from top to bottom. In 2016, it will take the amazing inclusive community we the UK have gone on LJY-Netzer Israel place from July 10 – August 3. create. Our Liberal and egalitarian Tour and said it was the most amazing Whether or not you’ve been before, values underpin everything we do and summer of their lives. To find out more, Israel Tour is the chance to discover a are a prominent part of our programme, or to book a place for yourself or your fascinating country and develop your from the meaningful and spiritual t’fillot child, please contact us using the details understanding of Israel and Judaism. (prayers) we run to the way in which we at the bottom of this page.

Comment: Climate change is a Jewish issue By Sam Alston de Janeiro. That became the 1997 Kyoto I would argue that some of the most protocol – the only global agreement on important commandments are those SOME YOUNG PEOPLE go to Paris for climate change – which was ratified and which outline our responsibility to our romance, others to see the sites – yet brought into effect in 2005. fellow human beings. more to taste exquisite French food However, there are problems with One of the first things we find out in and drink. As lj today went to press, a Kyoto, among them the fact the USA and Genesis is our responsibility to improve delegation from LJY-Netzer were heading Australia never joined and and and protect the world. Some people show across the Channel, but for a very India did not have to make emissions their Judaism by the way they pray or the different reason. cuts. A successor deal then broke down food they eat, but for LJY-Netzer, a very We have joined the call for action on – literally in tears – in 2009. A 2015 important part of our Judaism is how we climate change alongside other Jewish summit in New York was more successful treat others and the better world we want youth groups, including RSY-Netzer, and has put the world’s countries into the to leave for our children. NOAM, FZY and the UJS, at the United stages of final negotiations – which will There is a strong ethical idea in Jewish Nations Climate Change Conference. hopefully be concluded in Paris. law that God has made us the stewards of It is the continuation of a process that All that is well and good, but well may the land. It’s with this in mind that we are began in 1992, the year before I was you ask why, as Jews, you are going in Paris. born. That was when the UN Framework over there? Surely climate change is a Convention on Climate Change was universal problem, not one specific to our Sam Alston is a movement worker for negotiated at the ‘Earth Summit’ in Rio religious grouping? LJY-Netzer

Contact the LJY-Netzer team: Anna Craven ([email protected]), Sam Alston ([email protected]) and Tom Francies ([email protected]); office telephone 020 7631 0584 Page 12 LJ Today January/February 2016

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The Montagu Centre President Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein 21 Maple Street Chair Simon Benscher Deputy Chair Lucian J Hudson Vice Chair Jackie Richards London, W1T 4BE Treasurer Rosie Ward Israel and the Diaspora Tamara Schmidt Communications Ed Herman Social T: 020 7580 1663 Justice Amelia Viney Youth and Education Robin Moss Music and IT Graham Carpenter E: [email protected] National Officers Dr Howard Cohen, David Hockman and Ruth Seager W: liberaljudaism.org Vice Presidents Monique Blake, Henry Cohn, Nigel Cole, Geoffrey Davis, Lord Fink, Jeromé Freedman, Louise Freedman, Rabbi Dr David Goldberg, Sharon Goldstein, Rabbi Harry Jacobi, Willie Kessler, David Lipman, Corinne Oppenheimer, David Pelham, David Pick, Rosita Rosenberg, Tony Liberal Judaism is the dynamic, cutting edge Sacker, Harold Sanderson, Joan Shopper, Beverley Taylor and Clive Winston of modern Judaism. It reverences Jewish Co-Chairs of Rabbinic Conference Rabbis Richard Jacobi and Alexandra Wright tradition, seeking to preserve the values of the past, while giving them contemporary force. Senior Rabbi and Chief Executive Rabbi Danny Rich Charity Number: 1151090 Student & Young Adult Chaplain Rabbi Leah Jordan Education Rabbi Sandra Kviat Music Cantor Gershon Silins Interfaith Rabbi Mark Solomon Operations Director Shelley Shocolinsky-Dwyer lj today is edited by Simon Rothstein Archivist Alison Turner Director of Youth Becca Fetterman Send your news to [email protected] LJY-Netzer Sam Alston, Anna Craven and Tom Francies

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