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| Monthly June 2014

Shavuot: Cheesecake vs Blintzes

In this Issue A Rabbi’s Word (by Rabbi Holocaust Remembrance ULPS Bienniel Door project 3 Paul Arberman) 7 Kehila Quiz 11 Mosaic Chairman’s Yom HaShoah at Wembley Letters to the Editor 4 message (by Harry Grant) 8 12 Friends of the Earth Mosaic Lunch Club and Mosaic Events 5 Middle East 9 Food for Fun 14 Get in Touch! Mosaic at the EUPJ Mosaic Moments (from What’s On 6 conference in Dresden 10 Seder thru Lag B’Omer) 16 . Notable events

HEMS Condolences to: Mosaic Reform Paulette Sachon on the death of her Condolences to: mother, Rita Shaffer The family of Des Rayner A Rabbi’s The family of Rosalind Avadis Happy Birthday wishes for May and June to: Lew Leaderman on the death of his wife, Stella Harrison Rutstein (7) The family of Esther Silverman Connor Buchalter (11) Bill Fishman on the death of his Lily Rafalin (13) Word brother, Albert Kezia Rosenberg (15) Maureen Daniels on the death of her Each month, one of the Mosaic community rabbis will provide Erez Goldenberg (16) Welcome husband, Philip. Also to their sons – to this first edition of the Kehila- a message for us. We start-off with some words from Rabbi Amanda Kersen (50) Andrew and Jonathan Monthly Newsletter, the slightly Irene Berkovitch (75) smaller, but equally pretty sister Paul Arberman of Hatch End Masorti Synagogue Harold Curry (93) Mazel Tov to: of the Kehila Magazine, which Gerry Amias on the birth of his grandson, you received just before Pesach. Alfie Different production team, but similar look-and-feel. HWPS Lorette & Geoff Collett on the engagement We trust you all understand the Condolences to: of their daughter, Joanne, to Lee reference in the front-cover ’m happy to be part of the launch of the best of those who have picked up the Jeffrey Phillips on the recent death of his Greenfield cheese- picture. The Shavuot Kehila-Monthly – the Mosaic monthly Every movement shovel to dig into our tradition. mother Renee Val & Tony Fineberg on the birth of their Letters and Cheesecake event is on newsletter. The rabbi’s column is a How? It turns out that there were grandson, Asher Nathan I Hana Schlesinger on the death of her June 3rd (so hurry!) – see page 14 great space for each rabbi to lay out some in Judaism is of six examples in the Talmud and a few mother-in-law Anna Schlesinger Carla Levy on her engagement to Andrew for details. of the principles of their own Movement. examples in the middle ages of rabbis Morrow. Also to Stephen & Georgina Levy The family and friends of Shirley Stein The focus for Kehila-Monthly is In my first piece, I want to talk about how course entitled to who allowed a “hafka’at kiddushin” – an The family of Sylvia to keep the community informed of the Masorti Movement looks for solutions their own approach annulment of the marriage. Of course, Max Birne on the death of his brother Good Luck in her new home: Mosaic events that are occurring in in Jewish law – to help people. most Orthodox authorities do not accept Stanley Eve Jager the next couple of months and to I’ll give you an example. A woman once to tradition and this – they would say that even if it was include reviews of recent happenings came to my office and explained that used in the past – current Jewish law Get Well wishes to: Special Birthdays and (inside or outside the community) she had divorced in Argentina, civilly, 15 does not allow for this. that are topical, of general interest Jewish law Archie Shapiro Anniversaries: years ago. But she still felt trapped – she For Masorti and liberal minded Jews, and have involved Mosaic members. Ryan Specterman (2) couldn’t move on in life and find a new and these seven wells symbolized the the many different books of Jewish Kehila-Monthly is edited by Martin partner because she never got a “get” – seven Noahide laws which Abraham law over our history – the Talmud, and Welcome to New Members: Richard Sclare (70) Simonis and Judy Silverton – we Jewish divorce papers – that according to had promoted to the Canaanites. When Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, and the Tur Leanne Baker Peter Rotter (70) would be more than happy for others Russell Snipper Jeanette Leibling (70) to join us. how our tradition developed, are served the Philistines abandoned these basic – are all “living waters” from which we may draw insight and wisdom. We have Sara Rose Philip Goodman (70) Kehila-Monthly will be published by the man. laws and teachings of humanity, they Every movement in Judaism is of “stopped-up” the wells – these symbolic a deep well to provide for new solutions Timothy Freedman Barry Caplan (70) at the start of each calendar month, course entitled to their own approach sources of wisdom and law. and creative thinking in Jewish law – to Stephen Dorff (70) except around Pesach, Rosh to tradition and Jewish law. That being Rabbi Yaakov Tzi Mecklenberg make sure that we don’t leave people Special Birthday: Evelyn Sheldon (70) Hashana and Chanukah when you will have the big Kehila Magazine to said, in my estimation, the Orthodox too (1785-1865) comments that the wells high and dry. Mary Vulkan Bertha Levy (80) entertain and inform you. often turn to the Shulchan Aruch, the of Abraham and Isaac were a public Of course the solution is available Lea Sinclair (80) th With this in mind, please send 16 century collection of Jewish Laws. necessity. So Abraham cleverly gave to rabbis of other streams – who have Mazeltov to: Claude Landes (90) articles, pictures, letters and the like They believe it has the final say – that them God-related names such as the well the courage to use it – but it seems that Sandra and Stuart Rose on the occasion Hanne Freedman (90) for us to consider for publication in women must wait until their ex-husbands called, “The Well of Him that Lives and again and again it is the more liberal of the marriage of their daughter Sara to Andor Marer (90) the next Newsletter. Where we think are convinced/cajoled/intimidated into Sees Me” so that each time they wanted movements in Judaism that are taking on Timothy Freedman Michael Wallace (90) that an article is more appropriate giving them a Jewish divorce. Masorti water, they would have to say: ‘Let us go this responsibility. Carole & Michael Gumpel on their to the Magazine, we will pass it to Jews are more likely to plumb the depths and draw water from the (well called) Well The prophet Zechariah said (14:8): Good Luck in her new home: 30th wedding anniversary Robert Pinkus and his merry team. of our tradition to meet the challenges of of the Eternal God!’ “On that day, living water will come out Michelle Latchman June & Michael Wallace on their Please enjoy, please keep us modern living. When Avraham died, these names were from Jerusalem.” I want to suggest th supplied with input and please let us Celia Hipgrave 60 wedding anniversary A nice analogy may be drawn from lost. But Isaac didn’t try to draw water that “That day” refers to the day when know what is good and what could the book of Genesis, where we read from shallow wells and he didn’t give knowledgeable, God-fearing liberal be improved. that “Isaac dug anew the wells which up. He followed in his father’s footsteps rabbis took a well “satum” – a well that Please note that the Mosaic Data Protection and Privacy org. Items received will also be considered for inclusion in had been dug in the days of his father by re-digging the wells and giving them was stopped up – and we dug it anew. Policy documents are in the course of preparation. the Mosaic Website and/or the next Kehila Magazine. The Abraham and which the Philistines had the same names in order to restore the And “That day” refers to the day when Guidance, if required, may be obtained from the Synagogue decision of the Editor to publish, or not, is final. Contributors Send your articles, pictures, Administrator. and advertisers should be aware that copies of the stopped up after Abraham’s death; and teachings of his father. this woman walked into my office as an Copy Date for July issue of Kehila Monthly is 16th June. Newsletter are distributed to our twinned communities in letters etc to he gave them the same names that his To relate this to the story of the agunah – asking to draw living water from Material received after this date will have to be held over until Moscow. [email protected] father had given them.” (Gen. 26:18). “agunah” – if the wells represent the the well of the eternal God. And just as it the next issue. Views expressed in this Newsletter do not necessarily reflect According to tradition – water is teachings of our ancestors – then Masorti should be – with the help of our tradition – Contributions and ‘Letter to the Editor’ are welcome and those of the officers or council of Mosaic or its constituent compared to our life sustaining Torah – and liberal minded Jews stand among she was set free and restored to life. should be sent by email to newsdesk@choosemosaic. synagogues.

2 3 Mosaic Chairman’s message Friends of the Earth

Harry Grant – Chairman of Mosaic – gives a brief overview of some Middle East of the things going on within our 3 congregations and an insight into how we are moving forward as a unique Community comprising three Joanna Phillips reports on a recent multi-faith FoEME event on water sustainability autonomous Synagogues in the Middle East and its value in facilitating the peace process

2nd March – the day on which we recently the Jewish Chronicle reported formally started to exist as Mosaic on cooperation developing between Jewish Community, embracing Liberal, communities in Nottingham, reiterating important work in improving living still interact with people from the other Masorti and Reform Synagogues – is the fact that the best way forward is conditions and peaceful relations faiths and learn about their religion and not even 3 months ago, but much has pooling resources and working together. in the Middle East. Friends of way of life. Everybody that I spoke to had happened in the lives of our Synagogues, And we are showing the Community how the Earth Middle East is a unique a positive attitude and was eager to learn and our New Community, since then. to do so. organisation which brings together about Judaism and how I prayed as well I’m just home from our Lag B’Omer I do hope to see you at our Erev Jordanian, Palestinian and Israeli as my regular life.’ Despite the rhetoric of barbeque, a first for all of us, and what Shavuot services soon, when HEMS will environmentalists to cooperate on the conflict in the Middle East which often a great occasion it was. There were host three separate services followed the issue of water sustainability in pits Jewish and Muslim communities more than 100 guests of all ages, and by a study session for all, not to mention the region. against each other in the UK, this event from all three Shuls as well as visitors. an array of Cheesecake to choose from, By having these groups work was proof that cooperation is possible The fantastic weather, combined with all under one roof. You’ll find details of towards a shared and mutually and welcomed by all religions. activities for the youngsters, and vast timing and location elsewhere in Kehila, ‘Pesach Sunday’ Rabbis Kathleen and Frank presenting beneficial goal, Friends of the quantities of beautifully prepared food, or in the regular communal notices from Matzah Toddle hristians, Jews and Muslims Earth Middle East believes that made for a wonderful afternoon and each of the Shuls. came together for an interfaith peace can be achieved in the region. evening. The atmosphere was really My last reflection is to congratulate our in aid of wJr’s Cevent on Friday the 4th of April The directors highlighted some of the special, and is helping to strengthen the Communications team on a remarkable to learn about the work of Friends of the key issues concerning water in the ruach that is growing within Mosaic. first edition of our flagship journal, which Ukraine Crisis Earth Middle East, a charity using the Middle East, which included the alarming Since our inauguration, we have was published at Pesach. Copies have Appeal issues of water sustainability to facilitate shrinking of the Dead Sea, the excessive celebrated Purim and then Pesach, with gone worldwide, literally, and have been the peace process between Israelis and pollution of the Jordan River and the With the promise of rain threatening services in each of our Synagogues, and well received by everyone. The bar has Palestinians. Around forty members of the disparity of water allocation for Israeli to become a reality, a few hardy been set high for future editions. then a well-attended Communal Seder souls gathered at Ruislip Lido for newly formed Mosaic Jewish community citizens and Palestinians in the West at Bessborough Road including several Finally, can I please remind you all as well as a number of Christians came Bank. Participants at the event at a Matzah Toddle in aid of WJR’s Wembley Central mosque guests from the local community. that so many of our achievements only Ukraine Crisis Appeal. Coinciding together at Wembley Central Mosque for However, many positive developments Shortly before Pesach, Rabbis Dabba come about through the work of many with Easter Sunday and the school the event. have also occurred. The Israel Water Smith and Middleton led Erev Shabbat volunteers, working for the good of the holidays, it was perhaps no surprise The event began with a Jewish Friday Authority has agreed to allow water to prayers at Wembley Central Mosque. wider community. There is so much more that attendance was low, but the Night Service held in the Mosque led by flow from Lake Kinneret into the Jordan Multifaith bid This was linked with an update on that we want to do, and indeed will do, weather forecast may also have Rabbi Frank Dabba Smith, which was River to ecologically rehabilitate the water the work of Friends of the Earth in the but we need your support. Sure we’ve been an off-putting factor. Having attended both by Jews and by members and many workshops have been held for to save river Middle East, and in particular efforts just changed from being three small/ managed a lap of the lake, a wet of the Mosque and Church who wished members of all communities to educate to preserve the priceless River Jordan, medium-sized congregations to one picnic on the wet beach did not look to experience a Jewish service. The on the topic of water problems. Munqeth Jordan may vitally important to all nations in the large Community, and growing pains are particularly inviting, so Mark Phillips evening then proceeded with talks Meyhar stated his belief that there is great vicinity. Our close cooperation with our common. But the atmosphere created very kindly invited us back to his from representatives of all three faiths hope for the region despite its problems, inspire peace Moslem neighbours shows how easily on Lag B’Omer proved to me that what house for and Matzwiches. explaining the spiritual importance of citing the statistic that Israel reuses over A good article on FoEME and the good can come from cross-communal we are doing is good for all of us, and While the adults polished off water within their religions. The strong 80% of its wastewater. If the technology work being done by Frank Dabba engagement and mutual respect. the best way of securing our future. So Barbara’s delicious links between the Abrahamic faiths soon which allows Israel to do this was shared Smith and Shahab Hussein appears in the New Scientist at this address: The European Union for Progressive please come and be a part of it. Matzah, younger members of our became apparent, with discussion of with her neighbours, this would hugely http://www.newscientist. com/ Judaism held its annual Conference Harry Grant – May 2014 community enjoyed their playtime water as a source of life, purity, reflection improve the environmental standing of the together and a good time was had article/dn25469-multifaith- in Dresden in April. Not only was it and transformation. There was also one of region. bid-to-save-river-jordan-may- organised by one of our members, but PS: STOP PRESS!! I’ve just heard by all. Many thanks to Mark for his the five daily calls for prayer for Muslims at After the talks dinner was provided by kind hospitality. inspire-peace. html Mosaic was particularly well represented from Phil Austin that we have just been this point, giving the Jews and Christians Wembley Central Mosque. This gave The objective of the pair is there. Great interest was shown in the granted Charitable status, a major step in Donations can still be made the chance to experience an Islamic attendees of the event an opportunity to to stop the river Jordan from work we are doing, confirming that the building of the Community. Very well online via http:// www.mywjr. prayer service if they desired. discuss and share their religions with each becoming a hostage to conflict we really are trail blazers, identifying done and thanks to all concerned! org.uk/ mosaicfundraising/365/ Following the speeches by the religious other in a tolerant and respectful setting. and ‘its baptismal waters turning to opportunities for Jewish Communities PPS: Mazel tov to Neil Mendoza on matzah-toddle-for-ukraine- leaders, two of the directors of Friends of Sam Phillips, a thirteen year old member sewage’ and instead to become a to consolidate and grow. In fact only being appointed Chairman of HEMS. crisis-appeal/ the Earth Middle East, Munqeth Meyhar of Mosaic, said ‘It was an interesting key to peace in the area. By Robin Goldsmith and Nader Al-Khateeb, spoke about their evening, despite my being a child I could

4 5 Mosaic makes its International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance mark in Dresden Evening

Karen Pollak, describes the recent EUPJ conference in Dresden for Michael Reik also attended this event. Here is of 500 ambassadors who have been to which she was the chairman of the organising committee Karen Pollak Board of his report of that evening: Auschwitz, designated to go around the Deputies On Wednesday May 14th I attended a dinner country to explain their own journey having with the Board of Deputies at Westminster learnt what happened during the holocaust Michael Reik is the City Hall. and relaying to others with the assistance of Mosaic Reform The dinner was arranged by the Foreign Holocaust Survivors telling their own stories, David Pollak and Rabbi Kathleen enjoy Rabbi dream has become reality professional performers from various representative to the and Commonwealth Office as part of the to prevent a similar occurrence in the future. Walter Rothschild’s workshop on Diversity and Consistency in our corner of North West countries in the region, up popped yet Board of Deputies. UK chairmanship this year. There was This was reiterated by Eric Pickles the London. Curiosity was another member of Mosaic – Paul Zatz He was part of the representation from 31 countries. Minister for Communities, who specifically mixed with admiration from – with a wonderfully funny rendition of organising committee I spoke with the three representatives from made the point that in his opinion the people many of the delegates who “My wife is a Striptease Artist”. Once of their conference Argentina who were the only South American of Germany of 1932 was little different listened to Kathleen speak heard, never forgotten. And then there in March at UCL on representatives as far as I could tell, on the to those in the UK today and that what and the ten or so copies of were three more members of Mosaic ‘Vision 2020-Leading basis that it was to Argentina that Holocaust happened thereafter could happen in any the first edition of Kehilah who entertained the audience which British Jewry into the Survivors dispersed from Europe at the end country if there were not suitable preventative were snapped up by eager was, by now, in high spirits and ready for future’. His report of the war. measures in place of which education has to readers immediately after the a good old fashioned sing song. Judy of that Conference Sir Andrew Burns the ex British be a major factor. workshop. Smith, Nathan Godleman and David will be posted on the ambassador to Israel chaired the evening, Altogether the Government arrange for Further evidence of Mosaic Pollak all sang their own sets and then Mosaic website. introducing two of the UK Holocaust 3000 each year to go to Auschwitz to return members in action could be embarked on a marathon medley of Ambassadors, two 18 year-olds, Lucy and educate. £2.1 million is spent each year have recently returned from the witnessed at another workshop entitled songs which stretched into the early Hamwick and Calum Devine who are part by the Government on Holocaust Education. Biennial Conference of the European “Recognition – if not now, when?” hours. What a night! IUnion for Progressive Judaism which was chaired by our own Smith, And not only were we heard on (EUPJ) held in Dresden, Germany an ex-chairman of the old MNS and Saturday night but there was Nathan which attracted over 270 delegates a current member of Mosaic Reform. and David on Shabbat morning, in front Kehila Quiz from 20 countries around the world. I Then there was his wife Judy who of a congregation of nearly 300, leyning No. 1: Tzipi Livni at JNF reception was privileged to be chairman of the was not only a panellist at a workshop from the Torah together with a cantorial organising committee and so had the entitled “Marketing in the 21st Century” student from the Abraham Geiger Great Britain inside track on what has been called but also played impresario for the College in Germany. We showed that by many delegates the “best ever” Saturday night Dresden cabaret. This when it comes to leading from the front, where in Britain was a believer that Israel had the conference and created what one was slightly experimental, never having Mosaic members have what it takes. 1 would you find right to its past, that is to both the Mathematical delegate has called a “fantastic ruach”. been offered at any previous EUPJ If all this wasn’t enough, there was sides of the Jordan River. Bridge? David, being the shy retiring individual conference – having expected between Mosaic again, in the form of Michael Today the importance is a we all know (and some love), could 30 and 50 people to turn out for this late Reik, who participated as a panellist what major two-state solution – which means take all the credit and I could spend night offering, we were overwhelmed by in a workshop entitled “Is defending 2 British road was giving-up the original dream of the coming months polishing his halo. an audience of 140, including the hotel Israel the duty of the Jewish diaspora”. officially opened returning to all of the original land However, as we all know, it’s teamwork conference and events manager who Michael’s paper to the conference by PM Margaret from the Bible. (Greater Israel) that makes for successful enterprises, joined us all in singing the night away to will be posted on the Mosaic website. thatcher? Original negotiations started in organisations and, in this case, past midnight. Michael also chaired a reception which which British city July 2013 were Israel with US and conferences. What made the efforts of After some highly polished and took the form of an Israel Interest Forum 3 lies 57° north? then Palestinians with US. Less the organising committee all the more and attracted nearly 50 people. Gill Reik progress has been made since gratifying was the contribution made by and I are now official Mosaic groupies In what decade face-to-face meetings started. members of Mosaic. and loved every minute of conference. 4 did Greenwich Michael also attended Tzipi Livni’s Livni is unhappy at any further building of At this stage, I should mention that Yes, Mosaic certainly made its mark time finally presentation at the JNF reception on settlements, as Israel is now losing support the conference was entitled Faith in in Dresden and demonstrated in a very replace local 15th May. in the world. (Personally, I am very much times in Britain? Action. Our rabbi, Kathleen de Magtige- practical manner how we, who have As the leader in the Peace Talks for Israel against the building as they will probably Middleton, was one of three panellists Faith in Action, can also demonstrate What is Britain’s with the Palestinians, she made the following have to be dismantled as part of any peace on a workshop entitled Diversity and our Faith in Action. And for those of you 5 largest area of major points: agreement). Consistency. She made the case for who missed this amazing conference, fresh water? Israel is a Jewish democratic State and all About 400 attended the meeting with diversity being totally acceptable Gordon Smith we’ll be doing it all again in 2016 and this negotiations emphasize Jewish values with Palestinian and ultra right Jews together pressing a point at time there will be no excuses to miss it within Progressive Judaism and the ‘recognition’ Answers on page 15 all citizens having equal rights. demonstrating outside against the Livni visit cited Mosaic as living proof of how a workshop because it will be...in London. When she came into Politics in 1995, she and ZF providing pro-demonstration.

6 7 Yom HaShoah Chavurah supper Mosaic event at Lunch Club Food For Fun Ruth Cole describes her impressions of a recent Calling all Seniors – did you know Food For Fun is a group of were a glorious mix of the Wembley Chavurah supper, organised by that apart from the MNS Friendship HWPS members who meet in savoury and the sweet. The Club Monday lunch, HWPS runs each other’s homes to cook sophistication, elegance the Mosaic communities group a Lunch Club at Bessborough and eat together. The size of and the so oh-la-la-la of the stadium Road on the 3rd Wednesday of the group is limited by kitchen Roquefort cheese mixed with Roger and I were lucky enough to be each month? We offer a delicious dimensions so if any of you in the pear could not have been invited to the first ‘New Community’ home-cooked (from scratch) the Mosaic community would more French, whilst the heart- Shabbat Supper held on 7 March 3-course meal plus tea/ for like to be involved, you will shaped put us was humbled to attend the David the past that it would be fraught with 2014. The venue was the delightful the amazing price of £5. After sitting need to talk to Anne Steiner at all in the mood for ‘Paris in the Cameron event at Wembley difficulty due to when to run a trip and ‘old’ house belonging to Mark Phillips, and chatting to your friends over the number below. Springtime’. Istadium to commemorate the if it was during the week, would people who was our host for the evening. lunch, you are then entertained with Our March meeting was With thanks to Frankie, our Holocaust Survivors. I am a second come and if it was a weekend, could it Unfortunately Rabbi Kathleen was an interesting talk or other form at Frankie Green’s home host, and Frances, Hana, generation child as is my wife Linda be done over a Shabbat? I then mused prevented from being present due of entertainment. We welcome all with ‘Paris in the Springtime’ Margie, Ron, Rosemary and and our daughter Gillian who teaches for some time at whether we could to a family problem so, although we synagogue members plus friends. being the theme. Again I am welcome to Esther Aronsfeld at Hamakom is a third generation go to the memorial in Nottingham as were lacking a leader, we managed Why not come along and give us impressed how imaginatively who joined us for a really child. My mother aged 94.5 travelled a shul and take our children there as to conduct the Shabbat service a try – give Sylvia Kemp (0208 our Food for Funners interpret memorable evening. down from Glasgow to attend the a first step. I have not been although amicably amongst ourselves – 908 1988) a ring to book a place. I the theme. Our salad starter By Anne Steiner event. My father-in- law – Fred Stern Linda has. Nottingham is an easy day perhaps a real first for Mosaic as guarantee that once you taste our illustrated how ‘seasonal – who is a member of Mosaic Reform, trip and I would commend that we try there were members of all three food, it will be a regular date in your French cooking’ comes alive Phone Anne Steiner could not make it that day as he was and do this trip. communities present. Harmony of diary. For transport queries, call Sue with the freshest of springtime 020 8205 8639 if you on his way to Israel to meet other My mother was part of a Scottish mind prevailed, if not quite in the Schindler (0208 8907 5668). We herbs. The main course (plat would like more survivors from those dark days. historical exercise which can be timing of the singing. hope to see you soon. Future dates: du jour) showed-off French details Why was I humbled? There were so read on the website “Gathering the The Shabbat was passed June 18th, July 16th. cuisine and our two many people with lovely interesting voices” If any of the community was around with the wine and juice at the stories about the past and then there a holocaust survivor and lived for end. Maybe I was extra hungry but the were interesting commemorative part of the time in Scotland please challah was one of the best I have ever stories for the future. How should the contact me as the organisers would tasted! Holocaust be remembered? I do not love to hear their story. Sadly some Then the Chavurah supper and wish to be disrespectful or defeatist people have passed away but the chat! Jane Prentice organises the but sadly many of the survivors will not stories can be related by the children Shabbat evenings and works very be around in 10 years’ time. or grandchildren. I found my mother’s hard to ensure that there is a balanced Will their stories be of interest to story fascinating and learnt things meal. She certainly excelled herself young Jews, let alone non Jews? I never knew and I am in my early that evening and we had a brilliant We were lucky to be seated at a sixties. The question is whether the spread which went down very well table of young people alongside a story is of interest to me and people with the chat. It was an excellent way personal aide to David Cameron that know me and my mother, or if it to meet members from the other two who hosted our table and was a is of interest to the wider community. synagogues. After initially introducing facilitator for feedback to the Prime Historians say it is of great interest ourselves by name and synagogue, Minister’s Office. He was charming and I only ask the question as I do not formality diminished and we ate and and interested and listened to my know. chatted as though we had all known mother and another survivor on the Whatever your views, the afternoon each other for years. table. The young people who were was a great mind-searcher for me Two things have come out of the ambassadors were brilliant and and if we can do something to tell evening for me. First the Shabbat interested and not Jewish. They cared the young about the old, the day will Chavurah supper is a delightful idea about the Holocaust and made me have been a success. If we then could and if you are invited to attend one, I think that there was a future in the arrange a day trip to Auschwitz, that encourage you to do so – you will have past. One of ambassadors came from would be a wonderful memory to the good food in pleasant surroundings Northwood and he had been selected fallen and to those that have lived with excellent company. Second – if from his school to visit Auschwitz. The through horrendous times and made I had any reservations as to how question was raised whether more the UK their home despite settling in the ‘New Community’ would mix children should visit Auschwitz. difficulties. together, they have been dispelled. I I wondered if we could do a Mosaic Thanks, Mr Cameron, for making am sure we will all be happy and grow trip and then thought as we at HEMS me think. together in the future as one. had tried to organise a foreign trip in Edwin Lucas

8 9 Mosaic moments The Biennial Seder, Hamakom, and Notable Days pictures are courtesy of Frank Dabba Smith ‘Door Project’ During a weekend in May the Union of Liberal Communal Seder and Progressive Synagogues held its Biennial Conference in Reading

s a method of raising words emerged under these awareness of the headings. Many thanks to Bea Aevent, the Door Bennister, Elena Solomon and Project was created. Cathy Brown for their input All 37 Liberal communities and brilliant creative instincts. were asked to make and Also to my wife – Olivia – who display a door which would added photos and a mezuzah After the Aficoman was found Participants reclining be representative of the to the ‘door’. values of their community The next challenge was Yom HaShoah Hamakom and to let it symbolise how re-gluing everything and that community should be carefully rolling up the paper perceived when encountered door for the journey by tube to by people for the first time. the Montague Centre. It just Kevin Ziants, a Council about survived. member, was nominated On my arrival at the to organise Harrow and Montague Centre, the Wembley’s effort. Here is reaction was overwhelming. Kevin’s account: Ours was the first community I sought the help of the to deliver a door... Everyone Feo Kahn (HWPS), aged 104 refugee from Class Daled takes the Shabbat Trier with Rachel Rozewicz and Joy Katz service on 22nd March HaMakom Kabbalat Torah present was impressed class for the project as this with how well our door was was exclusively HWPS. I was presented and the two staff Lag B’Omer BBQ pleasantly surprised how members who dreamed up enthusiastic they were from the idea were pleased that the start. With the Mosaic there was some initial success ethos “Choosing Your Jewish to their brainchild. Life” as the starting point, Personally, I am proud we brainstormed ideas of of the efforts of the three the values of our Liberal girls and seeing the door at shul – Inclusivity, Quirkiness, the Conference itself. It will Open-minded, Welcoming subsequently take a proud – all came to mind. Key place in our sanctuary.

Fabulous event in Eastcote, 18th May MNS Caretaker Bill Shabbat Shira Notable Days Hunter retires After more than 30 years’ dedicated service, Bill will be retiring from his position as part-time Mosaic Reform caretaker at the end of July. We are organising a collection to acknowledge his dedicated service over such a long period of time. If you would like to contribute to this, please send your donation to the Synagogue office (cheques Sam Benson (HWPS), Bar Mitzvah Daniel, George, Mary and 29th March – pictured with Daniel, Jonathan Vulkan at Mary’s 80th Mosaic Reform apprentice payable to MNS). Linda and Robert birthday on 17th May rabbi Robyn Ashworth-Steen Any greetings you may care to send will be included reads Torah with our gift to Bill and details of a presentation will be announced nearer the time.

10 11 Letters to the Editor Wine Tasting ne evening in May, glasses, and discussing the little chapee with a hint of – no problem!) Robin has From Gary Miller From Rabbi Laura Janner-Klausner, Senior Rabbi to the Movement for ten Mosaic members points to consider when blackberry and lickorish indicated that he will be happy Tragic Death in Columbia Reform Judaism gathered for an tasting wine, Robin brought (whatever!). The next wine to present more sessions if I am writing on behalf of the Miller family regarding my darling Launch edition of Kehila O introduction to wine tasting out six samples of budget – a Shiraz from our colonial there is enough demand. He nephew Henry who died in Colombia in April. It has been in the Dear all, I hope you had lovely sedarim. I just wanted to say how much for beginners – appropriately wines from Waitrose, M&S cousins in the Adelaide Hills offered a prize at the end of news – but a great shock to me and the family. He was only 19 and I loved reading the beautifully produced Kehila – what a gorgeous in the Hall at and Wine Rack priced of Australia – was followed the evening. The answer was had his whole life to look forward to. He was due to start university magazine that sets such a superb tone for the new community. Bessborough Road. The between £6.79 and £15.99 by a limited edition Merlittle ‘Cornwall’, but I’ve forgotten in September. Moadim l’simcha, warm regards, Laura session was led by Mosaic a bottle. We had the option (excuse me – Merlot) this time the question. Henry was always the life and soul of the party, never in trouble – member Robin Goldsmith, of spitting or swallowing; from the Colchagua Valley By John Ashmele (I’m but I think what happened in Colombia goes to prove how careful who describes himself as naturally I opted for the latter. in Chile. (What drink problem? not as think as you drunk young people should be in what they do. From the British Heart a freelance food and drink The first wine was a Muscat I drink, get drunk, fall down I am!) The upsetting thing is that there are loads of teenagers who Foundation reviewer (www. thewritetaste. from Catalonia, Spain with experiment with the substance ‘Yage’, especially in areas like “To Mosaic – thanks co.uk). a hint of lychees, ideal with Colombia. It is not an illegal substance but I think it should be for the ‘Ramp Up the Robin started the session Asian or spicy foods. The controlled. Whoever gave out this substance should be arrested Red’ contribution on by outlining the history second wine was a Sauvignon and charged with manslaughter. My poor brother David – as 7th February” and science of wine. Did Blanc from the Loire, France. parents, we do not expect our children to die while we are still alive. you know that the earliest Did I mention that bread, Finally I just want to send a message to all you young people – evidence of wine dates back crackers and cheese were please be careful and don’t take any drugs that you know nothing to 7,000 BCE in Georgia, laid out as well? The third about. Don’t let what happened to Henry happen to you. and that the world’s oldest wine was a Chardonnay from wine-cellar (3,700 years old) Burgundy, somewhere else in was discovered in Tel Kabri, France, with a nutty, buttery, The Mosaic Reform office has received a note from Hanne northern Israel? schmuttery taste. Then onto Freedman, thanking us for the good wishes we sent on the After showing us the correct the reds – hurrah! The 14% th th occasion of her 90 birthday on 16 April, and assuring us that she way to handle wine-tasting alcohol Merlot was a cheeky had a wonderful day. The Library at Bessborough Road

When HWPS made its historic in print. Borrowing books move to share the premises in is extremely easy: it is only Harrow with MNS, amongst the necessary to write details in items to be transported was the appropriate ledger, which P eEstablished r f e 20 ct years ago its substantial library. Many of sits quite visibly on a stand in nai ls the books dated from the early the room. From time to time days of the community or were we will review either new For everyday donations from members, additions to the stock or older or just presented to mark family items that perhaps should be events. MNS also owned an brought to the attention of the special occasions impressive collection of books. membership. The reviews will The decision was taken to appear in Kehila. • Experience the delight in merge the two libraries and a If you are a lover of books a set of beautiful natural room was set aside to house you are sure to find something looking artificial nails some 1500 books. of interest. The light and airy library is a Perhaps you could help from quiet retreat with comfortable time to time in keeping the • Enjoy a relaxing chairs for browsing. It is on the library tidy. Maybe you could manicure or pedicure...or first floor of the building and is review a book. Do you have both! All in the comfort open whenever the Synagogue any experience of cataloguing of your own home is open. It can be reached by books? using either the stairs or the We have plans for the future lift. You will find volumes of – for those who have difficulty Phone Krysta on fiction and non-fiction as well in getting to the Synagogue, we as many reference books. hope to be able to deliver books There are many well known to people in their homes. 0208 866 9879 works which are no longer By Maria Landau

12 13 Harrow Friendship JULY ‘In conversation Club with...’ (For the over-60s) SHaBBat 26tH MondayS : 11:00 to 14:30 Service for past Conversations with our Elder Tel: 020 8423 2903 chairmen Statesmen Steve Levinson will be ‘in conversation Programme: of MNS with ...’ Mosaic member Lawrie Nerva. 11.00: Register Saturday 5tH Lawrie has served on the Board of 11.30-12.00: Seated mobility exercises Special Shabbat Service Deputies, is a Labour Zionist and (optional) During the past 55 years, more than two recipient of a Merit Award from Ed 12.00-13.30: 2/3 course lunch: tea & dozen Chairmen have served Middlesex Milliband for 67 years service to the New Synagogue with distinction, Labour Party. JUNE 13.30-14.30: Entertainment steering the synagogue to its present rSvp [email protected] or position as Mosaic Reform. 020 8864 0133 EntErtainMEnt in JunE: We will honour and pay tribute to our CAMEO (Group for Photo 39 Mosaic Film past Chairmen at this special Shabbat Programme: Bereaved people) tuESday 10TH at 20:00 tuESday 24tH AT 20:00 service and Kiddush. We hope that 2nd Linda Watts entertains many members will join our past- St Details to be announced 39, Bessborough Rd, Harrow Sunday 1 froM 15.00 – 17:00 th Email [email protected] for further 9 Singer/guitarist Alex Samos Chairmen and their families on this The next meeting of CAMEO HA1 3BS th information 16 Return visit of Stevie Permutt special occasion Ring 020 8864 0133 or email the office Evening Programme: 24th ASCOT DAY to let us know you’re attending. th The 1942 Classic Comedy 30 The New Singalong Singers Sunday Jazz at For further information call: Bertha on To Be or Not to Be 020 8421 2233 Shavuot Mosaic (in Glorious Black & White) rd tuESday 3 th Sunday 15 at 14.15 In occupied during WWII, a Erev Shavuot – Letters and anSwErS – Kehila Quiz No.1 Great Britain: 1. Cambridge 2. M25 Programme: troupe of ham stage actors led by Cheesecake Joseph Tura (Jack Benny) and his wife 3. Aberdeen 4. 1880 5. Loch Lomond The Book of Ruth, read on Shavuot, 14.15: Welcome glass of wine or juice Maria (Carole Lombard) match wits with is the story of a vulnerable, immigrant with canapés the Nazis. A spy has information which outsider. This Shavuot the Mosaic 15.00: Viva La Bop – set one would be very damaging to the Polish community will look at selections from 15.30: Interval: Tea/coffee with resistance and they must prevent its Get in touch! another book about immigrants, The and a chance to win a raffle prize being delivered to the Germans. Bintel Brief: Our Forbearers’ Ethical 16.00: Viva La Bop – set two Dilemmas and Minor Squabbles. 16.30: (approx) End The Bintel Brief is sixty years of letters Venue: 39 Bessborough Road, Chagigah addressed to the ‘agony aunts’ at the Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3BS friday 27tH – Sunday 29tH Yiddish-language Jewish Daily Forward. Book tickets (£10 per ticket) by phone Eastwood Hall near Nottingham. It It offers an extraordinary view of the 020 8864 0133 or email Sundayjazz@ celebrates Reform Judaism & is the Mosaic Hatch End Masorti Synagogue inner emotional lives of Jewish people choosemosaic.org Movement’s Biennial Conference Office 020 8864 0133; Email: [email protected] Office (answerphone) 0208 866 0320 as newcomers to Western Europe and Call Sarita on 07825 777706 or book Chairman: Harry Grant 01923 711 991 Email [email protected] North America. These letters may even aBout viva la Bop online at www.reformjudaism.org. Email: [email protected] Chairman: Neil Mendoza 07710 146 353 give us insight into the immigrants Viva La Bop are a close harmony, uk/chagigah fleeing persecution and poverty today. vintage jazz trio covering a wide range Membership: Edwin Lucas 07973 312 851 Hon. Secretary: Edwin Lucas 07973 312851 of songs from the 1920s to the current Email: membership@ choosemosaic.org Rabbi Paul Arberman (via email in Israel): rabbi@ hems.org.uk Evening Programme: day. The ladies hail from top London UK Website: www.choosemosaic.org Burials Officer: Edward Kafka: 0208 904 5499 JJBS: 020 8989 5252 19.15: Evening Service (with a choice Conservatoires and their wealth of talent of three services: Reform, Liberal and and experience has seen them perform Masorti) in places such as the Royal Albert Hall, 19.45: Kiddush – including an array of the O2 Arena and for TV and radio mouth-watering cheesecakes 20.15: The Bintel Brief: an inspiring Book 39 Mosaic Reform and emotional insight into the hearts of Get involved Harrow & Wembley Progressive Office: 020 8864 0133; Email: [email protected] wEdnESday 18tH Jewish immigrants Chairman: Barbara Grant: 01923 711 991 We will discuss ‘The Surgeon of in some of Synagogue Venue: fox End, Nugents Park, Hatch Crowthorne’ by Simon Winchester Office: 020 8864 5323; Email: [email protected] Hon. Secretary: Juliet Grainger 01923 822 682 End, Ha5 4ra (walking away from the our many Chairman: Adrian Cohen: 020 8420 7498 Rabbi Kathleen Middleton: 020 8866 9225 (use only when Uxbridge Road you will find Fox End at Details from Janet Solomon on Vice Chairman: Alan Solomon: 0208 866 0335 Office is closed) the end Nugents park on the left hand 020 8866 0335 events Bereavement Support (Bobbi Riesel): 020 8428 7977 side). please let us know if you are Rabbi Frank Dabba Smith: 020 8864 5408 attending by calling 020 8864 0133 or LJ: 020 7580 1663 JJBS: 020 8989 5252 emailing [email protected] Funeral Partners: 020 8445 2797

14 15 Unless noted otherwise, the times/locations of weekly services are: HWPS: Bessborough Road: Friday 19:00, Saturday 11:00 (Chavurah Supper last Friday every month, after the evening service) HEMS: Girl Guide Headquarters, Hatch End: Saturday 9:30 am Mosaic Reform: Bessborough Road: Friday 19:00, Saturday 10:30 June Sunday 1st 09:45 HaMakom. Half Term 15:00 Cameo – group for bereaved people Monday 2nd 11:00 Harrow Friendship Club Tuesday 3rd Erev Shavuot service + study in Hatch End Wednesday 4th 10:30 Shavuot services (HWPS 11:15, HEMS 9:30, Reform 10:30) Thursday 5th 09:30 Shavuot Day 2 – HEMS service Saturday 7th 10:30 Bar Mitzvah – Adam Newman (Mosaic Reform) Monday 9th 11:00 Harrow Friendship Club Tuesday 10th 20:00 Photography Group 39 Wednesday 11th 20:00 Council meetings Saturday 14th 09:30 Parashat haShavuah – with Rabbis Middleton & Dabba Smith Sunday 15th 09:45 HaMakom. Outing tbc 14:15 Sunday Jazz at Mosaic Wedding – David Leigh-Ellis & Katie Chadwick (Mosaic Reform) Monday 16th Kehila copy date 11:00 Harrow Friendship Club Wednesday 18th 11:30 Lunch club 20:00 Book Group – ‘The Surgeon of Crowthorne’ by Simon Winchester Saturday 21st 11:00 Shabbat shira Sunday 22nd 09:45 HaMakom 14:00 Tombstone consecration Sam Bulka (Cheshunt) Monday 23rd 11:00 Harrow Friendship Club Wednesday 25th 10:00 Mosaic bake in – & cakes 20:00 Mosaic Board meeting Thursday 26th Kehilah distribution Saturday 28th ‘Chagigah’ – MRJ Biennial Conference 09:30 Torah Tots 11:00 HWPS Shabbat Service & Kabbalat Torah Sunday 29th 09:45 HaMakom Monday 30th 11:00 Harrow Friendship Club

July Tuesday 1st 20:00 Council meeting Saturday 5th 10:30 Service & kiddush for past MNS chairmen Sunday 6th 09:45 HaMakom. End of Term Monday 7th 11:00 Harrow Friendship Club Saturday 12th 10:30 Shabbat Service + Shabbat Shira Sunday 13th 14:00 Tombstone consecration Barbara Hurst (Cheshunt) 14:45 Tombstone consecration Lea Pessok (Cheshunt) Monday 14th 11:00 Harrow Friendship Club Tuesday 15th Fast of Tammuz Wednesday 16th 11:30 Lunch club Saturday 18th 10:30 Bar Mitzvah – Sam Phillips (Mosaic Reform) Monday 21st 11:30 Harrow Friendship Club Saturday 26th 09:30 Torah Tots 12:30 Steve Levinson “in conversation with...” Lawrie Nerva Monday 28th 11:00 Harrow Friendship Club Wednesday 30th 20:00 Board meetings For the latest information and weekly parashot information please check