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CHANUKAH ISSUE 5786/2025

VOLUNTEER AWARDS

WHISKY NIGHT

INTERFAITH CONFERENCE

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Page 7

Pages 15

THE INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER FOR THE JEWISH COMMUNITY IN ESSEX & EAST ANGLIA

Communities ‘raise the bar’ for Mitzvah Day anniversary By SIMON ROTHSTEIN

Cheder pupils making cards at ELELS

Harj Sethi from Nishkam SWAT and WIJPS Head Boy and Girl man the collection stand Clore Tikva pupils building bridges with each other

ITZVAH DAY once more captivated Essex, as schools, communities and care homes were full of green – celebrating 20 years of this very special day. At Clore Tikva School, pupils and parents collected toys for Camp Simcha and donated food for Chabad Aid. The children also brought to life the Mitzvah Day theme of 20 Years of Building Bridges, with youngsters from Years 5 and 6 reading and working with the younger pupils in Years 1 and 2. The school’s Head of Jewish Studies Samantha Bendon said: “Mitzvah Day was wonderful, especially seeing our children building new friendships and connections. The most important thing is these good deeds will continue throughout the year.” At Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School,

families supported Mitzvah Day collections for Camp Simcha UK and Nishkam SWAT, the Sikh charity which distributes food to homeless and financially disadvantaged people in the local area. WIJPS Jewish Studies Lead Deborah Harris said: “A huge thank you to our community, whose generosity will truly make a difference.” Year 5 pupils then visited Jewish Care’s Vi & John Rubens House in Ilford, sharing conversation and laughter with the residents – bringing plenty of smiles. Wallace Leventhal, who lives in the care home, said: “It is so nice to interact with young people and see their amazing smiles.” The children were equally enthusiastic, with young Isabella saying: “It was an amazing experience… finding

Members of Ilford Federation Synagogue with their collection for Chabad Aid

out fascinating facts about them.” Residents at Vi & John Rubens House also enjoyed a celebration funded by Cranbrook United Synagogue, with members’ artwork displayed throughout the week. Children at the East London and Essex Liberal Synagogue Cheder made Mitzvah Day cards for the community’s Friendship Club, while the adults volunteered at Haven House Children’s Hospice. At both Ilford Federation Synagogue and Jewish Care’s Redbridge Jewish Community Centre, members collected food donations for Chabad Aid. The anniversary was marked with a variety of good deeds well beyond Essex – with 40,000 volunteers taking part across the world. This year’s flagship project was the Big Soup Serve, reaching its goal of

Chigwell celebrates as new Torah arrives By PAT LIDIKER

HE streets around Chigwell and Hainault Synagogue came alive as a 200-strong crowd celebrated the arrival of a new Sefer Torah. Music, dancing and singing marked the joyous occasion as the scroll was carried under a chuppah to the synagogue. Marcia and Martin Wohlman, whose family own the scroll and have officially loaned it to the synagogue, described the event as “just like Simchat Torah all over again!” Members of the community joined the parade on Manor Road, alongside the Wohlmans, their children and other family members. The arrival of the Torah was the culmination of a long journey. Rabbi Rafi Goodwin had highlighted the synagogue’s need, as only two of its existing Torah scrolls were still suitable for use, while others were beyond repair. Marcia, who had recently benefited

from the estate of a dear 96-year-old aunt in Vancouver, said: “This gave me the opportunity to obtain a new Torah to lend to the synagogue where Martin and I have been members for the past 10 years.” The scroll was ordered from Israel with the assistance of Rabbi Rafi, who liaised

for the presentation. The Wohlmans invited the Rabbonim, Honorary Officers of the synagogue, family and friends to their home to watch the sofer (scribe) complete the final letters. The Torah was then dressed in its mantle and, escorted by CST and the police, carried and danced to the synagogue accompanied by music. On arrival, two other Torah scrolls joined the new one, allowing all to enter its new home together. A short service was followed by The Wohlman family with the new Sefer Torah a buffet in the Johnnie and Minnie Simmons with Rabbi Yehuda Pink from Solihull. Function Hall. Rabbi Rafi brought it home in a holdall, Rabbi Rafi said: “What a beautiful and the family watched as the two rabbis simcha for the community and the assembled it in Golders Green, sewing Wohlman family. The first time we will the parchment onto wooden poles (Atzei officially call people up to make blessings Chaim). over the new Torah will be on Shabbat A date was set after the Yom Tovim Chanukah. By divine providence, we will

Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School kids bringing cheer to Vi and John Rubens House

delivering 5,000 portions of soup for the homeless and vulnerable. Looking back over the day and the last 20 years, Mitzvah Day founder and chair Laura Marks CBE said: “We know Jewish communities support local charities day in and day out. But what we saw on Mitzvah Day raised the bar, engaged new people and causes, strengthened essential bridges between communities, and maybe most importantly, felt great.” • WIJPS and Clore Tikva pictures by Karen Zetter read about how each tribal prince brought a dedication offering for the Tabernacle.” Synagogue Chair Colin Franklin added: “This was a wonderful occasion for our community. We are deeply grateful to the Wohlman family for their extraordinary kindness and generosity. Their commitment to our synagogue and Jewish tradition is inspiring, and this new Torah will enrich our services and strengthen our connection to Torah for generations.”

The parade on route to Chigwell and Hainault Synagogue

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The Essex Jewish News is the newspaper of the Jewish community in Essex and is published by Essex Jewish News Ltd. CIRCULATION AREA Barking, Barkingside, Brentwood, Chigwell, Chingford, Chelmsford, Colchester, Collier Row, Epping, Gants Hill, Gidea Park, Harold Hill, Harlow, Hainault, Highams Park, llford, Leyton, Leytonstone, Loughton, Newbury Park, Ongar, Redbridge, Romford, Southend and Westcliff, Wanstead and Woodford, Waltham Abbey. ESSEX JEWISH NEWS TEAM: Chair: Phillip Leigh Directors: Manny Robinson, Simon Rothstein, Jonathan Bloom, Micaela Blitz, Hazel Weinberg Editor: Simon Rothstein Editorial Consultant: Manny Robinson News and Features: Micaela Blitz, Linda Newman and Pat Lidiker Proofreaders: Jan Martin-Ellis and Sherri Hoppen Typesetting & Artwork: Jason Levy and Kate Abram (Dynamic Pear) Printing: Sharman Printers COPYRIGHT: All material is the copyright of Essex Jewish News Ltd and must not be reproduced without the written permission of the Editor. CONTACTS: All stories, pictures and editorial contributions should be sent by email to simon.rothstein@hotmail. co.uk or mannyrobinson@outlook. com For all advertising opportunities, please contact: sales@essexjewishnews.co.uk

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS Age Concern Redbridge 020 8220 6000 Ahada Bereavement Counselling 07758 727 328 Alzheimer’s Society 020 8970 5770 Board of Deputies Information Desk 020 7543 5400 Chabad Gants Hill addiction support 020 8554 1624 Chai Cancer Care 0808 808 4567 Chigwell and Hainault League of Jewish Women 0790 560 5781 Chigwell and Hainault JACS 020 8551 2355 Citizens Advice Bureau 0870 126 4140 Empathy 07765 191 067 Gants Hill JACS 0208 550 9450 Jewish Lads’ and Girls’ Brigade 020 8989 8990 Jewish Bereavement Counselling Service 020 8457 9710 Jewish Blind and Disabled 020 8371 6611

Jewish Care 020 8922 2222 Jewish Care Redbridge Community Events 020 8922 2222 or email: neil.rebak @jcare.org Jewish Marriage Council 020 8203 6311 Jewish Women’s Aid 0800 591 203 League of Jewish Women www.theljw.org email: office@ theljw.org Redbridge WIZO 020 8551 1301 Resource 020 8346 4000 Samaritans 020 8553 9900 /020 8520 9191 Southend and Westcliff JACS 01268 771978 The Paperweight Trust 0330 174 4300 Phone numbers are correct at the time of going to press. If your contact number or the contact number of your organisation has changed, or if you would like a contact number to be included, please advise us.

Looking forward to The Sugar & Ronson Campus An exclusive insight into the state-of-the-art facility that promises to transform the way Jewish Care supports people across our region

HE Jewish community in Essex is eagerly anticipating the opening of Jewish Care’s new first-class Sugar & Ronson Campus, set to welcome its first residents and visitors in summer 2026. At the heart of the campus is the 66-bed Sugar Family Care Home, designed to provide a home-fromhome experience where the comfort, accessibility and wellbeing of residents come first. The home will offer personcentred residential, nursing, dementia and end-of-life care, as well as respite stays for those recovering from illness or in need of temporary 24-hour support. Experienced and compassionate teams will create personalised care plans to meet each resident’s individual needs, preferences and routines, including sensitive end-of-life care. Residents are already looking forward to the new facilities. Sidney Kac, who has lived at Jewish Care’s Vi & John Rubens House care home for over a year, says: “It’s not just a care home, it’s a family. I’m excited for the brand-new campus – a beautiful building with all the mod cons. It will be fantastic, not just for residents but for all the Essex Jewish community.” Similarly, Pauline Myers, 85, who has lived at the home for around three years, says: “I’m very, very happy here. It was the best move for me. I’m looking forward to the new campus – more space, more activities, more people to beat at Scrabble!” Jewish Care’s Director of Legal Affairs and Property, Jonathan West, emphasises the cultural and spiritual features of the home. “Rooted in our proud Jewish heritage, the home will include dedicated synagogue services and offer fully licensed kosher meals, so that spiritual and cultural needs are respected and celebrated,” he explains. “Across the campus we’re proud to create opportunities that reflect and

Pauline Myers shows off the new plans

enrich Jewish life in Essex and the wider community, ensuring Shabbat and festivals are joyfully celebrated and traditions remain strong.” Central to community life at the campus will be The Ronson Community Centre, a vibrant hub where connection and social spirit come alive. The Centre will host a wide range of activities, from lively evening events and monthly discussion groups to daily exercise classes, table tennis, card games, live entertainment and dancing. Visitors and members will also be able to enjoy kosher meals, from fresh pastries and coffee at the milky counter to hearty lunches at the on-site meaty restaurant. The centre will also be available to hire from January 2027 for private events, including birthday parties, simchas or shiva gatherings, operating under the kashrut supervision of SKA. Long-time Redbridge Jewish Community Centre member Monty Goldstein, 100, says: “I hope I’m here when the new centre opens. It’s so valuable – Jewish entertainment, Jewish food, a Jewish environment – it’s the heart of Jewish life in Essex. I’m very excited that the modern, brand-new campus is on the horizon next year.” Another key feature is The Dennis Centre, offering specialist, personcentred support for people living with mild to moderate memory impairment or dementia. The centre’s warm, dementia-friendly design will create a calm and safe space where members can enjoy meaningful interactions supported by trained staff and dedicated volunteers. Cognitive games and creative projects will enhance

mental agility, promote social interaction and support physical and emotional wellbeing for members and family carers too. Ann, a regular member, explains: “It’s a pleasure to come here because everyone, without fail, is kind and helpful. We have a nice meal, and there’s always entertainment afterwards. It’s an extremely nice afternoon and I look forward to coming.” The campus will also house Jami’s mental health services, including the community hub and carers support, Jewish Care Explore for technology support, the Social Work and Community Support Team, and the Meals on Wheels hub – bringing a full spectrum of support and services together in one location. Jewish Care CEO Daniel CarmelBrown said: “The project would not be possible without the generous commitment of the Sugar family, and the Ronson family, through The Gerald and Gail Ronson Family Foundation. We are also hugely grateful for the Dennis family’s ongoing support. “This will transform the way we support the Jewish community across north east London and Essex, offering support for people of all ages and a place to connect and relax in one inclusive and welcoming space – ensuring traditions are celebrated and support is available for everyone who needs it.” • To receive the new brochure for The Sugar Family Care Home or to express interest, email admissions@ jcare.org or call 020 8922 2321. For information about hiring The Ronson Community Centre from January 2027, email redbridgefunctions@jcare.org

WHERE YOU CAN PICK UP THE ESSEX JEWISH NEWS SYNAGOGUES Brentwood Reform Synagogue Chabad Buckhurst Hill Chabad Epping Chabad Gants Hill Chelmsford Jewish Community Chigwell Synagogue Chingford Synagogue Cranbrook United East London & Essex Liberal Synagogue Harlow Jewish Community Ilford Federation Leytonstone and Wanstead Synagogue Loughton Synagogue New Essex Masorti Oaks Lane Reform Romford Synagogue Southend & Westcliff Hebrew Congregation

Southend Reform Sukkat Shalom Woodford Forest SCHOOLS Clore Tikva King Solomon High Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary COMMUNAL Jewish Blind & Disabled Aztec House Jewish Blind & Disabled Hilary Dennis Court Jewish Blind & Disabled Milne Court Jewish Care’s Southend & Westcliff Jewish Community Centre Jewish Care’s Vi and John Rubens House

Limewood Court, Beehive Lane RETAIL Blueberry Kosher Shop, Southend Delicacy, Chigwell Gary Green, Clayhall La Boucherie, Barkingside Reuby’s Salt Beef & Cheesecake Bar, Clacton-on-Sea Shalom Bakery, Gants Hill The Village Deli, Epping SUPERMARKETS Morrison’s Loughton Sainsbury’s Barkingside Sainsbury’s Brentwood Sainsbury’s Loughton Sainsbury’s Newbury Park

Sainsbury’s Ongar Sainsbury’s South Woodford Sainsbury’s Southend Sainsbury’s Westcliff Tesco Barkingside Tesco Collier Row Tesco Epping Tesco Westcliff Tesco Woodford Avenue LIBRARIES Buckhurst Hill Library Chigwell Library Fulwell Cross Library Gants Hill Library South Woodford Library - at Redbridge Drama Centre, Churchfields Waltham Abbey Library Wanstead Library

CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 3

Local politicians show support By MANNY ROBINSON

EWISH people should not feel fearful about going about their life in their own country, said Sir Iain Duncan Smith MP at a special meeting held at Cranbrook United Synagogue. The Chingford and Woodford Green MP, whose sister-in-law is Jewish, told of his horror at “the antisemitism which has been allowed in this country” and how his sister-in-law had “never been so threatened as she is now”. He added: “We have to stamp out this evil. I know of no community that has to protect its communal buildings, schools and places of worship. “It is an abomination to me that Jews should feel threatened. A threat to the Jewish community in the United Kingdom is a threat to all of us.” The former Conservative Party leader referred to the threats which culminated in the terrorist attack on the synagogue in Manchester earlier in the year and said that those threats were against Jews pure and simple and not against Israel or Zionists. “Why wasn’t more support given by the authorities?” he asked. “They would have known about the threats. That is an answer I am still waiting for.”

In a wide-ranging question-and-answer session with the audience, he said that Jews felt intimidated by the appearance of Palestinian flags and felt that marching with those flags was “provocative”. He told a packed synagogue hall: “Protests on Saturdays have been abnormal. They have been threatening and there must be a question mark about how long these marches should go ahead.” The MP said he wanted to know why there had been no marches in protest at the war going on in Sudan and the thousands of casualties there. There had been no protests, either, at the Muslims being killed in China. He added that antisemitism and Zionism are “the same thing for those who don’t like Israel,” and spoke of “dinner party antisemitism” and the hatred of Jews, where the growth is dangerous because it becomes fashionable. The meeting, which was hosted by Cranbrook United Synagogue Chair Bernard Berman, was well-received by all those in attendance.

Remembering those who served our country

UR Essex Jewish communities were well represented at this year’s annual Remembrance Day services and the AJEX Parade and Ceremony. Romford Synagogue held a service with a congregation including Andrew Rosindell MP, Mayors of four London Boroughs, senior British Army Officers and Dan Fox, Chair of AJEX – as well as Cantor David Rome and WWII veteran Monty Goldstein. Ashley Kissin and Marilyn Levy, laid the AJEX wreaths at Romford war memorial and also attended the AJEX Parade with Avril Segeal. Ashley said: “As an early post war child remembrance is very important to me, as I grew up listening to my late father speaking of his war experiences fighting with the 8th Army both in North Africa and Italy. “As a Jew it is very important that the non-Jewish world know that my father’s generation fought and many died fighting for this country for our freedom that we have today. We must never forget those who made the supreme sacrifice especially with antisemitism rearing its ugly head once again.” Many hundreds of people attended the Annual Civic Cenotaph Service and Parade in Southend probably a record. Southend and Westcliff Hebrew Congregation Chairman Dennis Baum, recited Psalm 23. The theme was “Peace.” The Cenotaph in Southend is the only place where the Association of Jewish Ex-Servicemen and Women have a plaque on the site. Communities and individuals from around our region were among the

Avril Segeal, Ashley Kissin and Marilyn Levy at the AJ EX Parade

The children from WIJPS with Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis

2,500 people who proudly marched down Whitehall to the Cenotaph at the AJEX Annual Remembrance Parade & Ceremony, to honour Jewish veterans and all those who have served in HM Armed Forces. They included pupils from Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School – who were honoured to attend for the second successive year and excited to meet Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis during the day. AJEX Chair Dan Fox said: “We did more than remember, we carried forward a legacy.”

By PAT LIDIKER

HE JEWISH community must be able to feel safe, confident and valued in Redbridge, Wes Streeting MP has told one of this region’s most senior rabbis. The Labour MP for Ilford North held a private meeting with Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin MBE, the Executive Director of Chabad North East London & Essex, to discuss the concerns of the community. Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin said: “Wes was most attentive and concerned to hear that feelings of discomfort are leading to families voting with their feet. “Working together we must continue to ensure that the Jewish community can live and practice whilst feeling proud

and secure!” As Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, the MP has also committed to reforming the way NHS deals with antisemitic members of staff, after saying it has “completely failed to protect Jewish patients”. Speaking after the terrorist attack at the synagogue in Manchester, he told The Times: “Two years on from the horrific events of October 7th and just days after a despicable attack on our nation’s Jewish community in Manchester, we must be unequivocal that antisemitism has absolutely no place in our NHS, or anywhere in our society.”

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Jewish Care honours its Essex volunteers

This year’s Jewish Care Volunteer Award winners, celebrated for their dedication, creativity and compassion

By PAT LIDIKER

EWISH Care’s annual Betty and Aubrey Lynes Volunteer Awards honoured a number of winners from Essex and East London. The event was held in Barnet and compered by TV and radio scriptwriter Ivor Baddiel. Awards were handed out by Marcus Sperber, Chair of Jewish Care, who said: “We know that our work would not be possible without all of you who volunteer alongside us and who commit to supporting our members, residents, clients, tenants and their relatives every day. “In times of challenge, your commitment to volunteering and communal service stands as a beacon of hope. It reminds us that even in times of adversity when we come together and unify, we can make a difference and create positive change.” Winners from our region included:

The Sonia Douek Volunteer of the Year Award: Lesley Midda This award was presented by Michelle Weiner, and was created in memory of her mother, the late Sonia Douek, a deeply respected leader at Jewish Care and a pioneer of personcentred care. It was presented to Lesley Midda, who was honoured for embodying the same spirit of dedication, kindness and excellence that defined Sonia’s work. In her acceptance speech, Lesley said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this award. Volunteering has never been about recognition, it’s been about showing up, doing what I can and being part of something bigger than myself.

But this acknowledgment means a lot. It reminds me that every hour, every effort and every small act truly matters.”

Contribution to Management Award: Sandra Brandes At the Brenner Stepney Jewish Community Centre, Sandra has been a consistent and compassionate presence, volunteering twice weekly, making befriending calls, and contributing to fundraising efforts through the Friends of Brenner Stepney Committee. She said: “I feel so honoured. We put in such hard work, it’s so nice to be recognised.”

Innovative and Creative Award: Simon Elman Befriender Simon Elman was celebrated for creating volunteer meetups, creating a space for them to share stories, advice, and encouragement over coffee. It was a simple yet brilliant idea, and Simon made it happen. His suggestion has now expanded, and the befriending team hosts volunteer coffee mornings in Golders Green, Edgware and East London. Thanks to Simon, volunteers now feel more connected, better supported, and empowered in their roles. This initiative has strengthened the overall befriending programme and brought renewed energy and camaraderie to those involved. He shared: “We don’t do what we do for awards, we do them because we love our community, but to be acknowledged is a wonderful thing. I’ve worked with Jewish Care for 18 years now, it is so lovely to be recognised and a very

humbling experience. It is a joy to be here.”

Unsung Hero Award – Rita Rogers and Albert Joseph Rita was honoured for over 20 years of volunteering across Jewish Care’s Redbridge community and dementia programmes. She has got to know each of the members well and supports them with care and kindness, while also being a great source of encouragement to fellow volunteers and staff. Always happy to help, Rita steps in for extra shifts and brings positivity to every role she takes on. Rita has also raised funds for Jewish Care by crafting and selling her handmade stuffed animals. Albert was recognised for his dedication delivering Meals on Wheels to vulnerable residents in Redbridge and Stepney Green. Albert said: “I love working for Jewish Care and the job that we all do is amazing. The award that I have received is so meaningful and I feel so appreciated.” Rita added: “I’m absolutely overwhelmed and shocked that I got the award for Unsung Hero, it means the world to me because I love being a volunteer, it gives me great pleasure in everything I do.”

Team of the Year Award – Pastoral Support Volunteers The Pastoral Support Volunteers from the End-of-Life Team were celebrated for their compassion and teamwork in providing emotional and spiritual care to residents and their families. Whilst working with the most

vulnerable residents approaching the end of their life, the Pastoral Volunteers’ strength lies not only in individual compassion, but in how their work also supports a wider team. Maureen Valins is one of the group. She said: “I just feel really privileged. Before I had this role, I was visiting someone I knew at Vi & John Rubens and being the person she last spoke to made me feel so honoured. It was then I started doing pastoral support. I’ve had to say goodbye to lots of people, but it feels so meaningful, and I value the time that I can share with each person every time I visit, even more.”

Volunteer Patrons Awards – Mandi Dobias, John Stilitz, Clive Wiseman, Sharon Levy and Taryn Levin Awards on the night also went to Mandi Dobias, John Stilitz, Clive Wiseman, Sharon Levy and Taryn Levin, each recognised for their outstanding commitment to community, from organising Holocaust survivor tea parties to running local befriending groups and supporting operational services. Richard Shone – Jewish Care’s Director of Community Services and Volunteering – lives in the area and told of the incredible contribution volunteers make in Essex and beyond. He said: “Each of them makes a huge difference every day to the lives of those we support, and we are truly grateful – we couldn’t do what we do without them.”

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Chief Rabbi spurs resilience at packed event

Community pays tribute to Alan Weinberg MBE By SIMON ROTHSTEIN •

Phillip Leigh read a poignant poem as the community paid tribute to Alan Weinberg

RIENDS, colleagues and community leaders gathered at Beal High School to celebrate the life of Alan Weinberg MBE, a man whose decades of service left a lasting impact on Redbridge. Alan – who died earlier this year – was renowned for his dedication, kindness and commitment to helping others, regardless of background or circumstance. His work as a school governor and local councillor, and his contributions to local initiatives such as Sinclair House, were widely praised. The celebration, organised by his former colleagues Pranav Bhanot and Robert Cole, was attended by around 60 people including Alan’s wife Hazel and their family. Speakers included:

llr Lee Scott, long‑standing friend and C former colleague • Linda Huggett, Deputy to Alan when he was Leader of Redbridge Council • Phillip Leigh, Chair of the Essex Jewish News, who worked with Alan on Sinclair House • Suzanne Nolan, Deputy Mayoress to Alan • Melvin Pedro, Chair of Governors at Ilford County High School • Cllr Paul Canal, Leader of the Conservative Group on Redbridge London Borough Council • Yvonne Andress, Co‑Headteacher of Beal High School A long‑standing and highly respected figure in Redbridge, Alan served as a Councillor for Clayhall Ward for 36 years and was Mayor of Redbridge. A Former Chair of Governors for Beal High School, he was awarded an MBE for services to education and the community. Attendees at the memorial event remembered Alan as a tireless advocate for his community, whose care and dedication touched countless lives. His legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Restoration of Holocaust Memorial Garden completed in Harlow By MICAELA BLITZ

ESTORATION work at The Holocaust Memorial Garden in Harlow has recently been completed by Harlow Council. The garden, situated at the back of Harlow Study Centre, houses a granite tablet honouring victims of the Nazi regime as well as other atrocities. A spokesperson for the Council said:

“We’ve restored the Holocaust Memorial Garden and put in place a new long-term, regular maintenance plan to ensure this wonderful corner of Harlow is cared for by a dedicated team week in, week out.”

THE SUGAR & RONSON CAMPUS

By COLIN FRANKLIN

The Day of Learning and Inspiration in full flow

Handmade poppies honour remembrance at Southend Pier By PAT LIDIKER

EMBERS and tenants from Jewish Care’s Southend & Westcliff Jewish Community Centre saw their handmade poppies take pride of place on Southend Pier as part of a striking community display. The initiative, Poppies for our Pier, covered the pier with over 100,000 red knitted and crocheted poppies to mark Remembrance Day and the pier’s 100th anniversary. Joining in the project, the Knit and Natter group from Jewish Care’s Redbridge Jewish Community Centre, led by volunteer Nettie Keene, contributed their own handcrafted poppies to the installation. The display served as a moving tribute to those who gave their lives and fought for freedom, while also celebrating a century of one of Southend’s most iconic landmarks.

HIEF RABBI Sir Ephraim Mirvis delivered a commanding address on Jewish pride and resilience to a packed audience at Chigwell and Hainault Synagogue on Sunday as part of a dynamic Day of Learning and Inspiration. Blending his characteristic wit with deeply meaningful messages, the Chief Rabbi set a compelling tone, focusing on the essential themes of resilience in contemporary life. The learning continued with an excellent series of educational tracks with a distinguished lineup of speakers: Rabbi Aidan Breiter, Rebbetzen Eliana Tatz, and Rabbi Akiva and Rebbetzen Batya Rosenblat. Each session was designed to empower attendees to find inner strength and purpose during challenging times, drawing on Jewish knowledge, collective resolve and communal pride to counter antisemitism. The day concluded with a motivating final address from the community’s own Rabbi Rafi Goodwin, encouraging attendees to leave inspired and to continue growing their learning, commitment and visible Jewish pride in the year ahead.

This stunning new campus will provide care, connection and community to both young and old in Redbridge, bringing all of Jewish Care’s local services under one roof. • Sugar Family Care Home • Ronson Community Centre • Dennis Centre for people living with dementia • Social Work and Community Support • Meals on Wheels • Jami Community Hub

OPENING SUMMER 2026

Redbridge Campus Advert EJN 170x264mm v2.indd 1

Charity Reg No. 802559

Keep up to date with the latest development news by visiting jewishcare.org/sugar-ronson-campus

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Doris enjoys lively 105th Timea says birthday celebration goodbye after four wonderful years Doris Rose at her birthday bash with friends and family

By GEOFFREY PEPPER

ORIS Rose, a much-loved member of the Southend and Westcliff Jewish Community, celebrated her 105th birthday in style at the Community Care Pop-In Centre, held in the Southend and Westcliff Hebrew Congregation Synagogue Hall. Friends, staff and volunteers from Jewish Care gathered for a heartwarming tea party to mark the occasion, sharing stories, laughter and admiration for Doris’s remarkable life. Doris is also a beloved member of Jewish Care’s Southend and Westcliff Jewish Community Centre. Born in Upper Clapton, East London, on 11 November 1920, Doris’s early life was shaped by historic times. She served in the Auxiliary Territorial Service during the Second World War, assisting with the operation of the first radar machines at Gunnersbury. It was during this period she met Harry, her future husband, and they were married the following year, raising their son, John David, together. After Harry’s untimely death at 61, Doris found love again with Lou, her devoted partner for 25 years, enjoying travel, holidays and a busy social life. Doris retired to the coast, living independently in Westcliff near the seafront and Chalkwell Park. She

From school friends to punk rock stars

treasured her independence, managing her own home and welcoming family and friends. Earlier this year, a fire in the flat above hers rendered her home uninhabitable, but with the help of family and Jewish Care, she moved into a nearby nursing home. Initially resistant, Doris now enjoys a comfortable room overlooking the garden, maintaining her freedom and social life, and appreciating the support of the staff. For her birthday, Doris enjoyed a lively celebration at the Pop-In Centre, complete with tea, cakes and a traditional three-tier birthday cake decorated with flowers. Guests joined in singing Happy Birthday, and Doris was presented with cards, flowers and gifts from friends, family and Jewish Care staff. Despite her age, Doris remains active, attending concerts in Priory Park and Thursday lunches organised by Jewish Care at the Community Centre. Doris attributes her longevity to a mix of vanity, stubbornness and a positive outlook, and says her secret is simple: “Think positive, don’t be negative, don’t moan, and keep your sense of humour. Oh, and drink lots of water!”

Timea Kasza gives her farewell speech

FTER a four year stay with Jewish Care, Timea Kasza, the charity’s co-ordinator at Redbridge Jewish Community Centre, said goodbye and is ready to embark on a new career. Members of the Tuesday and Thursday clubs who meet at Woodford Forest Synagogue, bid a heartfelt farewell to one of its most popular organisers. Described as ‘’mighty, feisty and lovely’’, Timea was told that she would be missed by staff, members, volunteers, kitchen staff. In fact, everybody. In a tribute by Community Hub manager Neil Rebak, Timea was told ‘You led us through an amazing amount of ups and downs, always there for us and always ready to listen. Our members feel you’re leaving intensely but it’s a testament to their affection that they want you to be happy wherever you are.’’

Timea, who comes from Hungary, said: ‘I have learned so much and I have come to truly admire Jewish culture. ‘’I came from a very different background and the community in Redbridge welcomed, supported and loved me.’’ Looking to the future, Neil Rebak was delighted to announce that in January, “after three successful years coordinating Jewish Care’s community dementia programme across the organisation’s community hubs, Danielle Jeffries will be joining us as the new Community Centres Manager. This is an extremely exciting time for Danielle to join the team as we plan to move into The Sugar & Ronson Campus, opening in summer 2026. Danielle will build on the great work already in place, developing a vibrant programme for the local community in its new home as we bring all our services under one roof.”

Judge Rinder delights at Clore fundraiser One of the wonderful exhibitors at Ilford Federation Synagogue

Stunning arts show at Ilford Federation

Nathan Geist. Jack Schaverien and their band Echo

I Judge Rinder chats to the EJN’s Jonathan Bloom

OCAL Jewish teens Nathan Geist and Jack Schaverien, frontmen of punk rock band Echo, are making waves with the release of their first single, Signals. Now almost 18, Nathan and Jack met at Wohl Ilford Jewish School’s pre-nursery and later joined forces with drummer Dhani at senior school and bassist Tom at music college, where Nathan and Jack now both study. Echo regularly play gigs across London and the South East, including sold-out shows in Camden, at the Brockwell Park festival, and most recently at the O2 Academy Islington. Formed three years ago, the group have been writing their own material and recorded tracks earlier this year, with

Words By MANNY ROBINSON Picture By JEWISH CARE

Signals now released and followup single Do You Remember due soon. In 2023 they were shortlisted in the Young Songwriter of the Year competition. Nathan said: “We feel lucky to be living our dream. Our songs have been played on the radio, I performed at Wireless Festival, and the best part is playing music with our friends. “One favourite gig was performing at WIJPS’s Yom Ha’atzmut concert – it was great to entertain the local community and inspire more young people in music.” • Signals is available on Spotify and all major streaming platforms. Follow Echo on Instagram and TikTok via @ echomusicofficial_uk. Their next headline gig is at the New Cross Inn in January.

LORE Tikva School hosted an unforgettable evening with barrister, broadcaster and campaigner Judge Rob Rinder MBE. The sold-out event welcomed more than 150 guests, raising vital funds to support the school’s mission of providing outstanding education rooted in Jewish values and inclusion. In a lively and wide-ranging Q&A, the TV star spoke about being raised in a strong single-parent household, his close friendships, Rylan Clark, and the transition from courtroom to television studio. The evening was hosted by Jonathan Bloom, Vice Chair of Clore Tikva and a member of the Board of the Essex Jewish News. “Clore Tikva is a school with a big heart, and evenings like this remind us how important it is to invest in education and community,” Judge Rinder told guests. “It’s a joy to be here, supporting something so meaningful.”

LFORD Federation Synagogue held a very well-received Arts & Crafts Exhibition, showcasing the wonderful talent on display in the community. The community’s Linda Conroy told the Essex Jewish News: “The exhibition was a true celebration of local creativity, featuring stunning pieces of marquetry, beautiful paintings, cozy knitted items, stained glass pictures, unique cards, and gorgeous jewellery. “Thank you to everyone who shared their talents with us – it was truly inspiring!”

El Al relaunches flights to sunny Eilat

L AL Israel Airlines has resumed its daily flights to the city of Eilat after a 10-year hiatus. The airline said the decision followed a request from the Transportation Ministry and months of joint planning. Eilat, which sits on the Red Sea in southern Israel, is a popular leisure destination with vibrant resorts, hotels, beaches and attractions. El Al will now operate two daily flights between Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv and Ramon International Airport in Eilat, offering morning and evening services. Ben Gurion is easily reached from the UK.

CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 7

Night on the whisky raises thousands for Chabad Aid By SIMON ROTHSTEIN

ORE than 70 people were warmed up on a cold night in Gants Hill at Chabad’s annual whisky evening. The event, which has now been taking place for more than 10 years, was brilliantly organised by Graham Nygate, assisted by Gary Boorman and the Chabad Events Team (CET) – who all worked tirelessly to create a hugely successful evening. Thanks are also due to the CST for ensuring everyone’s safety and the members who sponsored the night. The Essex Jewish News were delighted to be invited to try a number of different whiskies and hear about the fantastic work that the money raised on the evening would be funding. Whisky expert Katie Groves was once

more the host for the night, introducing a twist this year testing guests on their whisky and general knowledge after each tasting! Alongside the drinks was a fabulous kosher supper of chicken schnitzel, roast potatoes and Mediterranean vegetables, followed by sticky toffee pudding and vegan ice cream, catered by Reichs. It was a very warm, friendly, and emotional evening. Guests – who came from across the community – were greeted with a whisky on arrival, tried a number of different varieties throughout the night, and generously participated in purchasing raffle tickets and bidding on auction items. In total more than £3,000 was raised,

which will help in maintaining Chabad’s social and community services for the local Jewish and wider community, including its Chabad Aid food distribution programme and counselling services. Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin MBE, Executive Director of Chabad North East London & Essex, shared some of the moving live stories that he and his wife Devorah Sufrin encounter on a weekly basis. He read emails from those supported, including one non-Jewish recipient of food from Chabad Aid who said: “I am so deeply grateful for the help you have given me during this challenging time of my life. Your generosity and kindness have made a lasting difference.” He then told attendees about a local Catholic family, with a mother with medical issues and a toddler with additional needs, who are struggling financially and under threat of eviction. They approached the local Catholic Church, who could not help, so Redbridge Council approached Chabad to support them with fresh food to meet the family’s dietary needs.

Relating Chabad Aid’s work back to Jewish teachings, Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin continued: “Abraham was the first of the patriarchs. His attribute was that of chesed, which means kindness. He pushed himself and went beyond the norm to provide for everything that was needed for the people of the time.” Other clergy in attendance included Rabbi Odom Brandman of Chabad Buckhurst Hill, Rabbi Yossi Posen of Chabad Epping, Rabbi Mordechai Wollenberg of Woodford Forest United Synagogue, and Rabbi Rafi Goodwin and Rabbi Akiva of Chigwell United Synagogue. Chabad Aid’s mission and vision is to meet the growing needs caused by the ongoing cost of living crisis, by relieving hunger, fighting poverty and dealing with the associated challenges and stresses. It operates across North East London and Essex. To find out more about how you can support Chabad Aid, either as a donor or volunteer, please visit www.chabadaid. co.uk.

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8 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025

Brentwood welcomes new convert at special Sukkot service Rebbetzin Blima Wollenberg and Rabbi Mordechai Wollenberg with Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis

Chief Rabbi helps Woodford Forest B celebrate 10th anniversary

Rabbi David Hulbert welcomes Anastassiya into Judaism

By SIMON ROTHSTEIN RENTWOOD Reform Synagogue (Tikvah Chadasha) held a Shabbat service during Sukkot in a member’s home and sukkah, led by Rabbi David Hulbert.

Words by PAULA SAFFER Photos by GARY AND NATHAN SCHWARTZ

HIS year marks a decade since the merger of Wanstead & Woodford United Synagogue with Waltham Forest Hebrew Congregation (Boundary Road) to create Woodford Forest United Synagogue. A whole weekend was held to celebrate this important milestone, as well as 10 years since the appointment of Rabbi Mordechai and Rebbetzin Blima Wollenberg, and the rabbi’s 50th birthday. Shabbat started with around 85 people attending a delicious Friday night dinner. Jo Grose, Chief Executive of the United Synagogue, was the special guest. She and Rabbi Mordechai Wollenberg have known each other since meeting at the JSoc at Birmingham University, so it was particularly significant that she could join the community for both the dinner and the following day’s Shabbat morning service and kiddush lunch. She spoke warmly of how exceptional the rabbinic couple are, how successful the appointment had been, and how they have brought energy and inspiration to the community. The 10th anniversary celebrations continued on Sunday, when nearly 300 people were treated to a sumptuous afternoon tea. Existing and past members mingled with other local rabbis, faith leaders, dignitaries including the Mayoress of Redbridge, and special guest the Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis.

Children who attended were treated to a magic show, and there was a photo booth to commemorate the day. The Chief Rabbi dedicated the main hall as the Forest Suite and the small hall as the Grove Suite, then listened while various members, young and old, gave short speeches on their thoughts and experiences about the wonderfully warm and welcoming community, led by the Wollenbergs. Rabbi Mordechai Wollenberg then gave special thanks to his wife, Rebbetzin Blima Wollenberg, who works so hard at his side, as well as to all the Shul Council members and the vast number of hardworking volunteers. The afternoon concluded with the Chief Rabbi praising the ‘glorious community’, the ‘extraordinary’ rabbinic family, and the huge achievement in making a success of the merger – or ‘shidduch’, as he called it.

The lulav and etrog themed challah for kiddush

The day was made extra special as it included a welcome ceremony to Judaism for Brentwood member Anastassiya, following her successful appearance at the Reform Beit Din. Anastassiya is multilingual and, having learned Hebrew growing up, actually helped to teach others on the conversion course with her. After the service, the community enjoyed kiddush in the sukkah, including a themed lulav and etrog challah. Tikvah Chadasha’s Jan Feldman said: “The day was a very special one indeed. We were coming to the end of the festival and the weather was very kind to us, so we were able to have a beautiful kiddush in the sukkah. “What a wonderful, sunny celebration of Sukkot and Anastassiya.”

A busy few months for New Essex Masorti

The NEMS community visit their tree in Valentines Park

By SUSAN GEIST

A packed synagogue for the special lunch

Members of Woodford Forest celebrate the anniversary

EW Essex Masorti Synagogue (NEMS) has enjoyed a packed period of buzzing community life. Members took part in a guided walk through Valentines Park, led by Student Rabbi Tim Motz, which included a visit to the NEMS tree that was planted several years ago. Other highlights have included the regular Friday night bring-and-share Oneg Suppers, and the bi-monthly Saturday services held at Jewish Care’s Vi and John Rubens House. Both events continue to be well attended as part of the NEMS Shabbat programme. The shul also bid farewell to its longstanding treasurer, Ruth, who had served for around 20 years, with a ‘Thank You Afternoon Tea’, giving members the chance to show their appreciation for her significant contribution. With plenty more planned for the coming months – including a quiz night, visiting rabbis, additional Onegs,

Chanukah candle lighting, and a Siyyum offering members the rare opportunity to complete the final letters in a Sefer Torah – New Essex Masorti is looking forward to an exciting period ahead. For more information about attending NEMS events or joining the shul, visit www.nemsynagogue.co.uk.

Retiring treasurer Ruth is honoured with a leaf on the synagogue’s Tree of Life

CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 9

An insightful and inspiring O evening with Jonny Gould

A Visit to the South Woodford Islamic Centre By RABBI MORDECHAI WOLLENBERG, WOODFORD FOREST UNITED SYNAGOGUE NE Sunday in November, my schedule took an unexpected turn. Instead of the usual list of meetings, shiurim and community responsibilities, I found myself stepping through the doors of the South Woodford Islamic Centre for their Open Day. A poster through my letterbox had first alerted me to the event, but it was a message from my friend Neil Martin OBE, Chief Executive of JLGB, that prompted me to attend formally – to be present, to represent our community, and to show that good neighbourly relations matter. Our synagogue has long enjoyed a warm relationship with the local mosque and its imam, who recently joined us for our own 10th anniversary celebrations. Even so, walking into another faith community’s sacred space is always a moment that carries weight. I will admit that, given the tensions in the Middle East, I wondered if the topic might surface. It didn’t, not once. The atmosphere was entirely amicable, gracious and genuinely welcoming – neighbours meeting neighbours. Neil and I were greeted like honoured guests and given what can only be described as the VIP tour of the newly developed facilities. Along the way we bumped into Cllr Lloyd Duddridge, one of our own community members, who was also there in a spirit of support. The warmth of the welcome was striking – not in a way that blurred boundaries, but in a way that affirmed

the simple value of showing up for one another. The conversations were unexpectedly fascinating. We compared notes on community life: the challenges of fundraising, youth engagement, education and security. Some issues were remarkably familiar. Others were delightfully different, such as their particular ‘problem’ of having too many weddings, a challenge most of our synagogues would be delighted to inherit! One detail that particularly caught my attention was the way their centre operates without a formal membership model; attendance is voluntary, and the community sustains itself through donations at services. Different structures, different cultures, and yet a shared desire to build something meaningful and supportive for local families. What made the visit so valuable was precisely this: the ability to connect as neighbours without compromising who we are. I left the mosque reminded that living side by side means occasionally stepping over the threshold, listening, smiling and creating relationships. Attending an open day is not about endorsing someone else’s theology. It isn’t about blurring lines or diluting identity. It is about strengthening the fabric of local life, modelling dignity and respect, and demonstrating that community cohesion is not achieved by agreeing on everything – but by recognising one another’s humanity.

Rabbi Yanky Abrams, Richard Cohen, Leslie Adams, Johnny Gould and David Galman before the event

By JONATHAN BLOOM

OUGHTON Synagogue was filled to capacity as Jonny Gould – the acclaimed Jewish radio and television presenter, sports journalist and political commentator – joined Richard Cohen in conversation for a thought-provoking and timely discussion on Israel, the UK, and the rise of antisemitism around the world. Jonny, who has worked for Sky News, TalkSPORT and currently Fix Radio, has become a prominent voice in advocacy for Britain’s Jewish community via his Apple category No1 podcast, Jonny Gould’s Jewish State. His extensive broadcasting experience and strong advocacy for truth in media made him the perfect guest for a night that explored the challenges and responsibilities facing the Jewish community today. The evening opened with the presenter sharing insights into his Jewish ancestry in the UK, setting the stage for a powerful dialogue that spanned his experiences visiting Israel and Gaza, and his ongoing efforts to use his media platform to raise awareness about the growing wave of antisemitism across Britain. A passionate advocate for truth and education in public discourse, he spoke candidly about his determination, alongside many other vocal activists, to challenge misinformation in mainstream media, expose propaganda, and combat deceitful narratives that distort the realities of Jewish life and Israel’s place in the world. A lifelong Aston Villa supporter, the

star also reflected on his disappointment at the recent decision by police and safety authorities to ban Israeli fans from attending the club’s game with Maccabi Tel Aviv. He described it as “a slippery slope,” warning of the wider implications for fairness, unity, and free expression in British society. Throughout the evening, attendees were captivated by Jonny Gould’s blend of journalistic insight, Jewish wisdom, and deep commitment to justice and education. His remarks resonated strongly with the audience, particularly in a climate where many British Jews feel increasing pressure and uncertainty. Speaking at the close of the event, the shul’s David Galman said: “On behalf of Loughton Synagogue, I want to sincerely thank Jonny Gould for giving up his Sunday evening to share his experiences and insights with our community. “His honesty, passion and wisdom made for a truly engaging and thoughtprovoking discussion on Israel, the UK and antisemitism. “Events like this remind us how important it is to inspire and empower our young people, so that future generations remain informed, proud and resilient in their Jewish identity.” The evening was part of Loughton Synagogue’s ongoing series of community discussions aimed at strengthening Jewish identity, awareness, and engagement with current issues affecting the Jewish people both in the UK and globally.

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10 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025

Enterprise Expo empowers local entrepreneurs Stephen Klein, Rabbi Richard Jacobi and Anna Pincus with the ELELS collection of clothing

Jewish values inspire refugee support at ELELS T

Rachel Ellison MBE presents a session at the packed Enterprise Expo event

By SIMON ROTHSTEIN

AST London and Essex Liberal Synagogue (ELELS) hosted an inspiring evening with two speakers who told how their work supporting refugees is deeply connected to Jewish values and history. Anna Pincus and Stephen Klein spoke and answered questions about the work of Gatwick Detainees’ Welfare Group (GDWG), which seeks to improve the welfare and well-being of people held in detention by the UK Immigration Service. Both explained how their original motivation to do this work came from their families’ own Jewish stories of being refugees and finding safety and hope in the UK. Stephen, a volunteer, shared the reallife experiences of some of the people he has met – who came to the UK to seek better lives and contribute to our country, but found themselves trapped in an endless cycle of detention and isolation. By personalising their stories, Stephen aimed to strip away much of the “dehumanising language” used around asylum and immigration. Anna is the Director of the Gatwick Detainees Welfare Group and Co-Editor of Refugee Tales, a series of books in which poets, novelists and writers communicate the experiences of those who have

found themselves indefinitely detained. She explained that one of the greatest problems faced is the lack of access to good quality legal advice, and how GDWG tries to combat this. The evening was hosted by Rabbi Richard Jacobi, who first met Stephen when their children were in cheder together. He spoke of how welcoming the stranger and protecting those in need is a core Jewish value, going back to Torah. Those in attendance included ELELS member and Jewish human rights lawyer Jodie Spencer. She said: “As members of the British Jewish community, we are all descendants of asylum seekers and refugees. I strongly believe that we should be striving to provide the same welcome that I hope was given to my ancestors when they fled Russia and Belarus at the start of the 20th century.” After the talk and a Q&A, Rabbi Richard presented Anna and Stephen with a number of bags of good quality secondhand clothes – as well as new items including underwear and socks – that had been donated by the community to help those being supported by the GDWG. • If you’d like to invite Anna and Stephen to speak to your community, please contact info@gdwg.org.uk

HERE was standing room only at Work Avenue’s flagship Enterprise Expo 2025, as more entrepreneurs, freelancers and small business owners in the community than ever before are turning to the charity for support and advice. The event – themed Resilience. Relationships. Results – focused on the key soft skills and interpersonal abilities that underpin long-term success, but that many in business overlook. Rachel Ellison MBE – an awardwinning leadership coach and former BBC correspondent – opened the day with The Resilient Entrepreneurs Toolkit, sharing practical tools for staying motivated, bouncing back from setbacks and cultivating a growth mindset. She advised: “Resilience enables you to move on and look forward. Sometimes, taking a step back and connecting with others is just as important as working harder.” Simon Sadie, Global Client President at WPP Media, then led a session on Building Brilliant Client and Customer Relationships, emphasising that it’s not

about the things you say or do – it’s about how you make people feel. Jonny Goldstone and Julia Blackman of EOS Worldwide closed the morning with Road to Results, exploring how business owners can set a clear vision, map actionable steps and maintain focus to achieve their goals. Alongside the sessions, attendees had the chance to network over coffee and lunch, exchanging ideas and building new relationships that could lead to future collaborations. They were also able to speak with the Work Avenue team about the free workshops, events and one-toone support available throughout the year. Work Avenue CEO Debbie Lebrett said: “Our Enterprise Expo is always popular, but this year it sold out incredibly quickly, with over 70 attendees from across the entire Jewish community. It shows just how great the need is for support, especially in this challenging economic climate for small businesses. “It was wonderful to see people leaving with renewed focus and greater confidence, as well as practical tools they can put into action right away.”

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Table tennis winners Christine and Stuart SWHC Chair Dennis Baum shows local politicians around the synagogue’s new shop

By GEOFFREY PEPPER

OUTHEND and Westcliff Hebrew Congregation has leased its Talmud Torah building to the newly expanded Blueberry Kosher Shop in Westcliff. The large grocery store has reinforced the kosher facilities now available in the city, part of a growing infrastructure to support all forms of Jewish life there. It is sited adjacent to the Finchley Road synagogue on the same site. Blueberry is open six days a week and carries a very extensive range of kosher food, grocery items and merchandise. Southend MPs Bayo Alaba and David Burton-Sampson and Southend Council leader Councillor Daniel Cowan recently visited the shop and were all very impressed. Yiddy Brecher manages the shop and is one of the 80 Chasidim families who have moved to Westcliff over recent years.

Redbridge JCC tournament is top of the table

EWISH Care’s Redbridge Jewish Community Centre hosted its annual table tennis tournament, attracting more than 40 enthusiastic participants for a day of friendly yet competitive play. After an exciting day of matches, Christine and Stuart emerged as champions, with Estelle and Keith securing second place in a closely fought contest. The tournament was further brought to life by the centre’s dedicated cheerleaders, Lheila and Rita, whose encouragement kept the energy high throughout the day. To find out more and take part, contact Sharon Imber at Jewish Care, simber@ jcare.org or call 07795 667 751.

CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 11

Chanukah greetings

to the Community 5786/2025

Rabbi Yanky & Rebbetzen Rochel and family, the Honorary Officers and Board of Management Wishing all readers a joyous & happy Chanukah

ILFORD FEDERATION SYNAGOGUE A thriving community

2a Clarence Avenue, Ilford, Essex IG2 6JH Tel: 0208 554 5289

wishes the community a Happy Chanukah 5786

WOODFORD FOREST UNITED SYNAGOGUE Rabbi & Rebbetzen Wollenberg, Rabbi Hill, the Honorary Oﬃcers & Synagogue Council wish all readers a Happy Chanukah 20 Churchﬁelds, London E18 2QZ Telephone 020 8504 1990 www.wfus.org.uk

Rabbi & Rebbetzen Singer, The Honorary Officers, Board of Management and our Community send greetings to all EJN readers for a Happy and Peaceful Chanukah A Southend and District Reform Synagogue 851 London Road Westcliff-on-Sea Essex SS0 9SZ Telephone 01702 711663 www.southendreform.org.uk

ILFORD FEDERATION SYNAGOGUE

Greetings from

ROMFORD & DISTRICT (AFFILIATED) SYNAGOGUE (Incorporating Havering Jewish Ladies)

25 EASTERN ROAD, ROMFORD, ESSEX RM1 3NH 01708 741690 The Honorary Officers and Congregation wish everyone a Happy and Healthy Chanukah

2a Executive Clarence Avenue, Ilford, Essex 6JH The and Council of IG2 Southend Tel: 0208 554 5289 and District Reform Synagogue, More than a synagogue together with just Rabbi Warren Elf MBE, warmly wish the and all **Daily morning and community Sabbath services** games readers**Weekly a happy andafternoons** healthy Chanukah

**Large active JACS group** **Full educational programme** Kabbalat Shabbat and Shabbat morning *New modern designed building** services aremodern held weekly Zoom, halls forby hire** **Attractive with Shabbat morning **Lift fortnightly to all floors including Sabbath**

services at SDRSOfficers Rabbi Singer, the Honorary and Board of Management wish all You are welcome to joinand us. readers of the EJN a Happy Please contact the synagogue for details. Peaceful Chanukah

The team at the Essex Jewish News wish all our readers a Happy Chanukah

B KING SOLOMON HIGH SCHOOL

WOHL ILFORD JEWISH PRIMARY SCHOOL

Headteacher: Ms M Phillips Tel: 020 8498 1300 info@kshsonline.uk www.kshsonline.uk

Headteacher: Mrs L West Tel: 020 8498 1350 office@ijpsonline.co.uk www.ijpsonline.co.uk

The Governors, Staff and Students at both schools wish the whole community a very happy Chanukah

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12 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025

The Progressive Jewish communities of East London & Essex Liberal Synagogue and Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue, our rabbis and councils send warm wishes to all the community and readers of the Essex Jewish News for a very happy and healthy Chanukah. Please visit our websites for our full range of intergenerational programmes and contact our offices for details of our services and family events this Chanukah and throughout the year. Am Yisrael Chai and Chag Sameach!

elels.org.uk

swesrs.org.uk

Chanukah Public Menorah Lightings Chanukah Public Menorah Lightings Chanukah 5786 - 2025 Chanukah 5786 - 2025

NIGHT 1: Sun 14th Dec Buckhurst Hill @ 5pm

NIGHT 1: Sun 14th Dec Epping Party @ 3.00pm Buckhurst Hill @ 5pm

Epping Lighting @ 5.30pm

Epping Party @ 3.00pm Epping Lighting @ 5.30pm

NIGHT 2: Mon 15th Dec Loughton @ 6pm NIGHT 2: Mon 15th Dec Loughton @ 6pm

NIGHT 3: Tues 16th Dec

Chigwell @ 6pm NIGHT 3: Tues 16th Dec @ 6pm Chigwell @ Havering 6pm Havering @ 6pm NIGHT 4: Wed 17th Dec

NIGHT 4: Wed 17th Dec Woodford @ 6pm Woodford @ 6pm

NIGHT 5: Thurs 18th Dec

NIGHT 5: Thurs 18th Dec Barkingside @ 3.45pm Barkingside @ 3.45pm

NIGHT 7: 20th Dec (Motzei Shabbos)

NIGHT 7: 20th Dec (Motzei Shabbos) Gants Hill @ 7pm Gants Hill @ 7pm

NIGHT Sun 21st Dec NIGHT 8: Sun 21st8: Dec ONGAR: lighting Public menorah lighting ONGAR: Public menorah date & time TBC date & time TBC

CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 13

For all advertising opportunities, please contact sales@ essexjewishnews. co.uk

ϮϮ ĞĞŚŝǀĞ >ĂŶĞ͕ /ůĨŽƌĚ͕ ƐƐĞǆ͕ /'ϭ ϯZd ZĂďďŝ ^ƚĞǀĞŶ Θ ZĞďďĞƚǌĞŶ ^ŝŽďŚĂŶ ĂŶƐŬǇ͕ ƚŚĞ ǆĞĐƵƚŝǀĞ ĂŶĚ ^ǇŶĂŐŽŐƵĞ ŽƵŶĐŝů ǁŝƐŚ ĞǀĞƌǇŽŶĞ Ă ,ĂƉƉǇ ŚĂŶƵŬĂŚ

A friendly and inclusive Reform synagogue Shabbat and festival services led by Rabbi Irit  Cheder  Chanukah and Purim parties  Communal Seder  Coffee mornings  Adult education  Supper quiz  Easy parking

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And more… www.harlowjewishcommunity.org.uk Want to know more? Email us at admin@harlowjewishcommunity.org.uk

Wishing everyone a very happy Chanukah

Rabbi Goodwin and Chaya, Rabbi Rosen and Olivia, the honorary officers and synagogue council wish all readers of the Essex Jewish News a very happy Chanukah. Limes Avenue, Limes Farm Estate, Chigwell, Essex IG7 5NT

14 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025

Celebrating 20 years of Merle with Essex Jewish News Editor Simon at this summer’s Mitzvah Day 20th anniversary launch event School pupils in Ghana with their Mitzvah Day gifts from Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary

Deborah at last year’s WIJPS collection to support Sikh charity Nishkam SWAT

Merle and ELELS volunteers tidy the grounds of Haven House

Linda Newman talks to two of our area’s key Mitzvah Day co-ordinators about the initiative from its earliest inception to the present day.

OVEMBER 2025 saw the 20th anniversary of the first ever Mitzvah Day, which began when Laura Marks CBE, inspired by a similar concept when she lived in Los Angeles, brought the idea of a day of good deeds to the UK’s Jewish community. From small beginnings – 100 people attended the first event – the Jewish-led day of social action has grown massively and now involves over 55,000 people of all religious faiths and backgrounds, all around the world. Mitzvah Day events take place in synagogues, churches, mosques, schools, care homes and offices – with participants over two decades including Prime Ministers, Mayors and this country’s most senior faith leaders. Deborah Harris, Jewish Studies Lead at Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School, is the co-ordinator for their Mitzvah Day activities. Deborah comes up with the ideas, contacts the charities, finds out exactly what they

want and puts plans into action. She told the Essex Jewish News: “Over the years we have supported UK, local and overseas charities including working with OneChild Ghana in Africa some years ago, which was a highlight. We collected pens, pencils, notebooks and our children also made little notebooks for them. The school in Africa sent back photographs of the children with the green Mitzvah bunting and the stationery we sent them. The following year we sent out toiletries and the children sent letters to each other. “This year we supported Nishkam SWAT, the Sikh Welfare and Awareness Team for the second year. Nishkam SWAT goes out on the streets of London distributing snacks, clothing and sleeping bags to the homeless as well as distributing hot meals. Our families collected snack bars, crisps, toiletries, hats, gloves and scarves for the charity and they were very grateful. “Again, as last year, we took our year five pupils and spent the morning at Jewish Care’s Vi and John Rubens House in Gants Hill. The children chatted to the residents and shared information about favourite football teams, hobbies, foods and so on. Watching the generations connect was truly heartwarming. “We also supported Camp Simcha - a charity which works with children who are seriously unwell and their families. Every child in school [240 pupils] is encouraged

to bring in a new toy or game, which will be distributed to the children over the winter period together with the get-well cards made by the children.” Of the interfaith aspect of the day, Deborah says, “Teaching children of every faith to support and respect each other is so important. It is the foundation of a caring community. Mitzvah Day gives pupils the chance to celebrate what makes each of us unique, while recognising the values we all share – compassion, friendship and respect.” Merle Muswell has led Mitzvah Day on behalf of East London and Essex Liberal Synagogue (ELELS) since the start of the good deeds day. Merle – who also served as the ELELS membership secretary for 17 years – reaches out to local charities to see if there is anything that can be done to help, and inevitably there always is! Merle comes up with the ideas, organises the day and brings in helpers who can number anything from five to twenty-five people depending on what is needed. Retracing some of the highlights of years gone by, she reflects: “One Mitzvah Day near the start, we planted trees with the help of ex-offenders; another time we did ‘a Nippies tea’, (‘Nippy’ being the term given to waitresses at Lyon’s Corner House in the 1920s) and we dressed up in their uniform of black dress, white apron and matching hat and served tea at Jewish Care’s Vi and

John Rubens House. “We have done several things with Haven House Hospice including getting involved with ‘Lights of Love’, a candle lighting and multi-faith service held annually to honour children who have been lost. We have supported Mill Grove – formerly a Christian orphanage, now an extended family and residential community – and our members knitted items for the children for when they went on outdoor trips.” Moving on to this year Merle says: “We held an event at ELELS’ Friendship Club. The cheder helped set it up, mingled with the guests and provided some of the entertainment. Also, we supported Jewish Women’s Aid, collecting toiletries for the women and children it supports.” Past events at ELELS include packing Chanukah boxes, planting trees, collecting bags of clothes for charities, baking cakes and making chicken soup for those in need. At King Solomon High School, a group of 11 enthusiastic students from Years 7-10, led by teacher Saul Levene, dedicated their morning to volunteering at Chabad Aid – packing essential food parcels and adding heartfelt notes of support and kindness. Many other synagogues and volunteers across our region take part in Mitzvah Day every year. The list of good deeds goes on and on… long may it continue!

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Nisa-Nashim Lloyd follows Conference brings in his father’s hope and healing footsteps

A poignant moment as Laura Marks CBE and Dr Zaza Johnson Elsheikh lead the memorial

Muslim Dr Zaza Johnson Elsheik – both trained mediators – led a session on talking about the sensitive issues that many people often avoid when discussing the conflict. Modelling a conversation between them, they then gave the women three rules – listen, understand and don’t argue – for their own conversations. Afterwards everyone reported a positive experience. Over lunch, which had both halal and kosher options, everyone had a chance to get to know each other better and reflect on a truly moving morning. Afternoon sessions, held in a hybrid way to allow those across the UK to take part, included one led by Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin on building a beacon of hope. The women also discussed bringing voices into British schools, and how to address gendered Islamophobia and antisemitism. The event made national headlines, covered by the BBC, Sky News, The Times and faith press. Speaking on the BBC’s Sunday Morning Live, Nisa-Nashim Co-Founder and Acting CEO Laura Marks CBE said: “Everybody needs to be involved in these conversions, but we deliberately focus on women because often it is women who can build that empathy and those relationships.”

Lloyd Green (with red guitar) on stage in the hit new show about Wiko Johnson

By MICAELA BLITZ

USICIAN Lloyd Green was honoured to pay tribute to his father by treading the boards at the Southwark Playhouse Borough earlier this year. Lloyd’s late father, Mick Green, was a legendary guitarist who co-wrote Going Back Home with Wilko Johnson, the

iconic rockstar and founder of Essex band, Dr Feelgood. Lloyd was asked to play the song for a performance of Wilko: Love and Death and Rock and Roll. The play, written by Jonathan Maitland about Wilko Johnson has previously had a run at The Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch before transferring.

This Chanukah, your gift can keep the light of care shining all year round. Every smile, every moment of comfort, every life transformed, happens because someone like you cared enough to give. Our services, many of which receive no government funding, touch the lives of 12,000 people every week. But the need is growing, and the cost of care is rising faster than ever. This year, Jewish Care must raise over £20 million, plus an additional £1.1 million, to meet the impact of the National Insurance increase, simply to continue providing the care we already offer. Please, if you can, make a donation today. Thank you.

020 8922 2600 jewishcare.org/chanukah

The Jewish and Muslim conference attendees show off their bags of friendships

you can also donate here

Charity Reg No. 802559

OMEN from Essex joined more than 100 Jewish and Muslim women from across the country in a day of discussion, reflection and friendship – focused on how to rebuild fractured faith relationships in the UK. The Nisa-Nashim Mini Conference saw 40 women from both faiths spend a powerful morning together at a West London mosque, before another 70 from all over the country joined them online. The highlight of the morning was a moving memorial session to remember all the innocent lives lost and ruined in Israel and Palestine. It included readings, reflections and a candle lighting. As the lights went down and the women all held candles aloft, they hugged each other – letting out pure emotion in a very difficult time. The mood then moved from words to action, as the women made friendship bags for each other, decorating pink tote bags with messages of support and solidarity. The event tackled difficult topics head-on, including the war in the Middle East. There was also a show of solidarity to stand against the rise in extremism in the UK, including the recent terrorist attack on a synagogue in Manchester and arson attack on a mosque in Peacehaven. Jewish leader Jo Feldman and

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When the Stars of David see the stars in heaven

CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 17

By MANNY ROBINSON

NASA’s first Jewish male astronaut Dr Jeffrey Hoffman

hat great comic singer Allan Sherman did a brilliant parody in the 1960s of the song Shine on Harvest Moon with his rendering of Shine on Harvey Bloom. Part of the lyrics went like this: ‘’We’ll miss you on the holidays This year they’re coming later We hope you have a lovely Seder in the crater. Your mother sent the astronauts Some chicken soup at school They’re using it instead of rocket fuel.’’ Jews have always been associated with space travel – either in spoof films like Jews in Space, History of the World Part II from Mel Brooks, where two astronauts, each wearing a tallit, attack and are attacked by other spaceships; to Spaceballs, another Brooks classic. And on television, think of Star Trek with the captain of the Starship Enterprise, James T Kirk (the Jewish William Shatner), and the Vulcan Spock (the Jewish Leonard Nimoy). Indeed, Nimoy was reported as saying that the hand gesture he used to say ‘Live long and prosper’ was taken by him from the Jewish priestly blessing. Even the late and much-missed Essex Jewish News contributor Mark Harris wrote a novel called A Virtual Reality in which thousands of Jews were transported on an interplanetary voyage across the Milky Way galaxy to an exoplanet orbiting the Alpha Centauri star system to escape persecution and another possible Holocaust on Earth – a second Exodus. But that was all science fiction—a phrase, incidentally, coined in the early part of the 20th century by the Jewish inventor Hugo Gernsback. In July this year, Israel’s most advanced communications satellite was successfully launched by SpaceX, dubbed Dror-1, from Cape Canaveral in the United States. The satellite should serve Israel’s communications needs for the next 15 years. That was a satellite. But we have had Jews in space for some time, and if you sift through the torrent of not-so-good

news that has come out of Israel this year, you will find a sliver of hopeful tidings: according to a report in the Jerusalem Post, NASA has signed an agreement with the Israel Space Agency for full co-operation on the Israeli Beresheet 2 lunar mission to the moon. According to the Israel Space Agency, the country is planning a space-based national centre. The main focus will be on emerging technology, commercial space ventures and international cooperation. The first Beresheet mission in 2019 also saw NASA and Israel working together, but although the mission succeeded technically, the control room lost contact with the launcher, meaning that it had crashed on the lunar surface. According to my research, there have been 17 Jewish astronauts who have gone into space from Russia, the USA, Israel and Canada, but the one who stands out for me is American Dr Jeffrey Hoffman, who flew five missions aboard the Space Shuttle, logging more than 1,211 hours and 21.5 million miles in space. Jeffrey Hoffman celebrated Chanukah in space with fellow Jewish astronaut Scott J Horowitz. He took a dreidel and a tiny menorah (it wasn’t lit on the flight!), together with a mezuzah and a tallit from his son’s Barmitzvah. He became the first person to read from the Torah in space (he didn’t have a minyan!), but his rabbi helped him prepare a special service for the Space Shuttle. Of course, the question arises about how he could spin a dreidel in zero gravity and how he could celebrate Shabbat when the sun rises and sets every hour. In the old East End, it was something of a joke when a Jewish mother would proudly say: ‘My son the doctor’. Today, somewhere, another Jewish mother will be saying just as proudly: ‘My son the astronaut’. So Jews are now an integral part of the journey to the moon and the planets. Maybe we’ll rename the planet Jewpiter! Watch this space...!

The Book we need Anthony Kerstein – who attends both Liberal and Reform synagogues – makes a proposal for a Progressive Book of Jewish special readings

UBIQUITOUS book in any Jewish library is A Book of Jewish Thoughts by Rabbi Joseph Herman Hertz (1872–1942), who was Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of Britain and the Commonwealth from 1913 until his death in 1942. As well as this book, he was also the author of another fixture in most United, Federation, Reform and Liberal synagogues, the Hertz Chumash (Pentateuch), which contains his commentaries, in which he tries to reconcile the divine authorship of the Pentateuch with modern science. A Book of Jewish Thoughts contains quotes from a wide variety of Jewish and non-Jewish sources and, despite his opposition to Liberal Judaism, these include early Liberal Jews Claude Montefiore and Israel Abrahams, as well as Solomon Schechter, the founder of American Conservative Judaism. It was published in 1920, but an abridged edition was published for Jewish soldiers and was also given as prizes to schoolchildren in the 1930s. An updated version was published in 1940 and was given to Jewish servicemen in the Second World War.. Both the Liberal and Reform

movements have their own collections of special readings, but these are tucked away, mostly unseen, in the back of their respective prayer books. There are 54 special readings in the Liberal Siddur, Lev Chadash, one for each parsha of the Torah, each on a particular theme, e.g., loneliness, doubt, joy, Torah and so on. In what was Bet Tikva (before merging with Woodford Liberal Synagogue to become East London and Essex Liberal Synagogue), we used to read these on Erev Shabbat, after the Amidah. I was given to understand that was because many Liberal congregations were small and led by lay readers, so these readings were in place of a sermon, or an inspiration for a sermon. The Reform movement’s version is a study anthology, which is read by a congregant just after the beginning of the service on Shabbat morning. These are also divided into themes, e.g., On Reality, On Hope, On Illness, On Dying, etc. My proposal is that the newly combined Progressive Movement (the merger of Reform and Liberal Judaism) should publish both these readings combined in one small book. By publishing a combined book of special readings, it gives our congregants, and anyone else interested, a compact book which can be read on the daily commute or dipped into in spare moments. The various readings and themes could become the basis for discussions and study sessions, which could lead to a widening expression and understanding of our Judaism and another step in combining our religious services and practice.

Meeting up with a music megastar By PHILLIP LEIGH

F I mention the name Ivan Robin, I feel sure that most of you will remember the great simcha photographer of the 1960s to 1990s and, following on, his son Jeremy. But when I go further and mention the name Jonas Blue, I doubt if many of my senior friends’ memory boxes will be ticked. I am certain, however, that the reaction will bring instant recognition from our children and grandchildren. For Jeremy’s son Guy is the mega-famous musical artist Jonas Blue. I have known Guy and his family long before ‘Jonas’ and before he was Bar Mitzvah in my shul at Loughton back in 2002. So, it was great meeting up with him again at the splendid 90th birthday party of his wonderful grandmother Frances (pictured). Guy tells me he picked up his first musical instrument, the flute, at the age of eight at St Alban’s Primary School, moving on, self-taught, to the piano at King Solomon High School, Barkingside, where, not being the academic type, he left at the tender age of 14. From then on Guy threw himself into his music. It was by no means easy, having to forgo many pleasures of his friends, missing out on sport, entertainment, and holidays, and working

all hours to make a name for himself. His hard work eventually paid off with numerous chart-topping singles including Perfect Strangers, Mama and a cover of Tracy Chapman’s Fast Car, in 2015, when, in his words, were “just three minutes of music set my world alight.” Why the name change? Guy intimated that he felt he needed a brand, a name that could be remembered. For some unknown reason, he was attracted to Scandinavian names, and while on a station platform, the name Blue just came into his head and, as they say, the rest is history. When I asked him who his mentor was, he said without hesitation it was, and still is, his manager Aaron Ross. He does not make a move without running all matters before him. Guy is now celebrating his 20th year in the business and is moving from his lovely home in Essex to a condo in Miami. Like his father Jeremy and his late grandfather Ivan, he loves quality vintage cars and the music of Quincy Jones, along with his lovely dog, Quincy. Despite all his success, Guy remains the unspoilt, unchanged, sensitive and sensible person he has always been. Long may he continue so.

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WHAT A NICE CUPPEL!

VERYWHERE I go, I find a cuppel (or kippah, or yarmulke if you prefer the Hebrew to the Yiddish). I wasn’t at Sherry and Norman’s wedding in 2001, and I wasn’t in shul when Beth had her Batmizvah in June 2013. In fact, I don’t know any of them. But by some strange coincidence, I now have in my possession two cuppels with their names imprinted on the inside. Sherry and Norman’s is royal blue, and Beth’s is purple. Then there is the grey one in the glove compartment of my car stamped ‘Jake’s Barmitzvah’, a pink one I found in one of my jackets stamped ‘Julie and Zack’s Wedding’, and umpteen others in various drawers in the house. I also have cuppels that have come into my possession from I know not where: I probably ‘borrowed’ one or

VIEW

FROM THE SIDELINES By MANNY ROBINSON picked up the wrong one somewhere along the way. Who knows? Indeed, I don’t know of many men these days who actually go out to buy a cuppel. They have their own ‘collection’ from weddings and barmitzvahs. The only people I know who buy one are parents or other relatives as presents for Barmitzvah boys. You will always recognise me on a windy day at either Waltham Abbey, Rainham, Bushey, the Western in Bullsmore Lane, or the Adath Yisroel. I am the one chasing my cuppel, which has blown off my head and is heading, like some piece of tumbleweed, to be lodged between the memorial stones or the nearest clump of mud. Clips are no good. My thinning patch means that the clips have little to cling onto, and, in any event, I tend to lose the clips. Velcro means that I will lose more strands of my patch when I try to peel it off. Most of the cuppels I have seen in various synagogues these days are crochet, either in dark blue, black, or white. They are either plain or with a design around the edge. There are also a few scattered silk cuppels dotted around the shul. The other cuppel is the one with a distinct crease down the middle. This tells

you immediately that the wearer only uses it three times a year to go to shul! Of course, the cuppel is not used exclusively by Jews. Pope Leo always wears a skullcap called a zucchetto, as do his cardinals, but neither the Pope nor his entourage have the words ‘David’s Barmitzvah’ inscribed on the inside. Only the name tag from the ‘affair’ defines it as a Jewish cuppel. Observant Muslims also wear a skullcap, usually knitted, called a takiyah. As far as I am aware, there is no actual Jewish law that demands a person to wear a cuppel, although, of course, some rabbi or other will write to tell me otherwise. My research shows that in Exodus 28:4, a head covering is listed but only as part of the priestly vestments, and in II Samuel 15:30, the covering of one’s head and face is regarded as a sign of mourning. The cuppel, however, appears to have some basis in Talmudic literature,

where it is associated with reverence for God. In 13th-century Germany, Jewish boys were not required to wear a cuppel when they were called to the Torah. In contrast, 17th-century Russian scholar David Haley suggested that Jews should always keep their heads covered in order to distinguish themselves from Christians, and the practice of wearing a cuppel made its way into the Shulchan Arukh (Jewish code of law) in the mid-16th century, which stated that one should not walk more than four cubits with an uncovered head. But halachic experts all appear to agree that the wearing of a cuppel is a matter of custom, and local customs have become freely developed, reinterpreted, and, in some cases, rejected. Basically, if it is the minhag (custom), it becomes the law. So that’s it. I’m off to have my lunch… with a nice cuppel!

Be careful if you snore H

ERE is something to make any man think… according to the news outlet YNews Global, judges at the Rabbinical Court in Jerusalem have ruled that a husband’s untreated snoring constitutes grounds for divorce and financial liability, ordering him to pay £25,800 in compensation. The financial liability is for the full ketubah pre-nuptial agreement for marriage. This ruling emphasises a special responsibility and the idea that

failing to act on a solvable issue can be grounds for divorce or financial liability. The judge told the husband that he could have addressed his snoring but failed to do so. After consulting historical halachic rulings and modern medical insights, the judge said: “We face a unique case where both husband and wife agree that he snores during sleep, driving her to frustration and anger. His snoring led her to leave the bedroom and fuelled

mutual resentment, insults, and curses. “Since the husband recognised his snoring deeply irritated his wife, he should have sought treatment.” The judges were Rabbi Yair Lerner, Rabbi Yehuda Shachur, and Yaron Navon. While I don’t believe excessive snoring would be grounds for divorce among the public at large, I was intrigued by the ‘historic halachic’ rulings mentioned by the judges.

I found it on a website called Yeshiva World News, which stated: “There is an expression that is commonly used called ‘gezel sheinda’ – the stealing of sleep. The meaning, according to the website, is that doing something that either wakes another person up or prevents him or her from going to sleep is an act of ‘gezel sheinda’.” So now you know… but I wouldn’t lose any sleep over it!

CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 19

VIEW FROM THE SIDELINES By MANNY ROBINSON

Why smoked salmon is top of the pops I

have, unfortunately, had to attend several funerals and stone settings in recent weeks. I do not usually ‘go back to the house’ unless it is a relative or close friend. But I did go back to one recently where the table was heaving with all kinds of goodies, including smoked salmon, schmaltz herring, pickled herring, taramasalata, and cream cheese bridge rolls. The smoked salmon and the rest disappeared within 20 minutes, leaving the taramasalata and cream cheese bridge rolls on their own on the plates

like two waifs marooned on a desert island. Smoked salmon, of course, has always been considered as ‘our’ food, although the Norwegians and others might have something to say about that statement. The fact remains that, to the non-Jewish world, smoked salmon — or lox, as it is called in the United States — was considered a delicacy, while Jews considered it ‘normal’ food. Then the non-Jewish world discovered bagels and smoked salmon, and it was a marriage made in heaven. They haven’t yet discovered the fish with a carrot on

its head called ‘gefilte’ or matzahs. But time will tell… But I have gloomy news for Jews everywhere: smoked salmon is bad for your health! An investigation has revealed that a portion of smoked salmon contains more fat than a slice of pizza. Although it has always been considered a healthy product, farmed smoked salmon bought from supermarkets was found to contain up to twice as much fat per 100g as a margherita pizza, according to an article in a national newspaper.

But the good news is that, although it is higher in fat, salmon contains healthy omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fat linked to health benefits, rather than the more harmful fats found in pizza. There is, however, a difference depending on which salmon you buy. Farmed salmon contains between 10.5g and 14g of fat; wild salmon between 2.7g and 9.9g. A margherita pizza contains 7.4g of fat. Will that stop people diving into the smoked salmon bagels and bridge rolls? Frankly, I doubt it.

Independence starts at home “My life changed overnight. After having my leg amputated, Jewish Blind & Disabled offered me the housing and support I needed to retain my independence.” Geoff, JBD Tenant Jewish Blind & Disabled offers housing and support for adults who have physical disabilities or vision impairments.

To make a donation or to find out more about our housing and support, please visit jbd.org or call 020 8371 6611 Charity No. 259480

20 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025

A wonderful start to the year at WIJPS Deborah Harris, the Jewish Studies Lead of Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School, tells us about all the amazing things happening

The kids take part in key national events including selling poppies for Remembrance Sunday

T has been a truly fantastic first term at Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School (WIJPS) – one filled with learning, laughter, and community spirit. They say every cloud has a silver lining, and for WIJPS that couldn’t be truer. Several years after the school experienced flooding, the rebuilding work is now complete and the results are nothing short of remarkable. Our children now benefit from a stunning new sukkah and outdoor classroom, as well as enjoying a brandnew Key Stage 1 playground. When spring approaches, we will be excited to launch our gardening club in this wonderful new space. Each class will grow its own fruit or vegetable, giving pupils a hands-on opportunity to nurture, harvest, and share their own produce with friends. At WIJPS, we take pride not only in what happens within our school walls, but also in our deep connection with the wider community. Every year, our pupils and families proudly march in the AJEX Parade, honouring those who served and demonstrating our commitment to British values. Mitzvah Day in November was, as always, a highlight and a time for giving back and showing kindness in action. Our longstanding partnership with Camp Simcha continues to flourish, with pupils donating toys for children spending time in hospital over the winter months. We also support Nishkam SWAT, a Sikh charity dedicated to serving the homeless and disadvantaged, reflecting our belief in shared values of compassion and community service. Learning extends far beyond the classroom at WIJPS. Educational visits are an integral part of our curriculum, enriching lessons and igniting curiosity. This term, Year 5 pupils explored history and culture at the British Museum, and every class is eagerly anticipating their annual cinema trip. Upcoming adventures include Year 6 visiting the Imperial War Museum, Year 2 exploring the Ragged School Museum, and Year 4 discovering science in action at The Lookout Discovery Centre in Hyde Park. Of course, academic excellence remains at the heart of all we do. WIJPS pupils consistently achieve KS2 SATs results above national averages, with many of our most able pupils achieving some of the top scores in the borough. But our vision goes far beyond test results. We believe every child deserves a well-rounded, joyful education – one that nurtures creativity, resilience, and self-belief. From free lunchtime clubs such as LEGO Club and Fun with Threads, to after-school favourites including football,

cookery, hula-hooping, and board games, every child can discover something that excites and inspires them. Our state-of-the-art technology suite features 32 touchscreen computers, allowing every class to develop essential digital skills during weekly lessons. Every Thursday the sound of music fills the corridors, as Rocksteady Music School bands rehearse, perform, and celebrate the joy of making music together. As we approach Chanukah, the school is alive with preparations for one of our favourite festivals. From playing dreidel to lighting candles, singing and dancing, our pupils will once again celebrate the season by bringing a little extra light into the world. Behind so much of what we do is our wonderful PTA, whose tireless energy and creativity help make WIJPS the vibrant community it is. Whether it’s the Winter Fete, a sponsored bounce, or bingo nights, their events raise vital funds and bring families together in the true WIJPS spirit. We’re also proud to host a free Baby and Toddler Group, themed around Jewish festivals, offering a warm and welcoming space for local parents and grandparents with preschool-age children. At WIJPS, we are more than a school – we are a family. Many of our former pupils now return as parents themselves, choosing to give their children the same nurturing, values-driven start in life that they once enjoyed.

• To learn more about Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School or to arrange a visit, please visit www.wijps.co.uk or email office@ijpsonline.co.uk.

There are lots of wonderful books to be found in the WIJPS library

Year 2 pupils learn about Tashlich

Year 5 trip to the British Museum

Rosh Hashanah family education activity for reception families

Sukkot Fun for the school’s pupils

The kids enjoy fun time on the school’s adventure playground

Cookery

CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 21

By SHELLEY POSNER

CHANUKAH

ROM the large public Menorah displays in dozens of cities and towns these days, one would expect that Chanukah is the highlight of the Jewish year, coming as it does so close to the other December celebrations! However, Chanukah is a relatively minor holiday compared to the major festivals that are mandatory in the Torah. Chanukah actually commemorates a historical event – the successful Maccabean revolt against the Syrian Greeks which resulted in the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem. The festival was the creation of ancient Rabbis and therefore has no religious rituals other than the lighting of the Menorah for eight nights to remember the miracle of the oil. However, nowadays it has become traditional to celebrate with foods that have an oil content such as latkes and doughnuts, and to share the festival with family and friends with the giving and receiving of gifts. The following recipes transmit the message of the Chanukah miracles and are a delicious and tasty reminder of the joy of celebrating this festival through food with our nearest and dearest. Chag Sameach!

LATKE SHEET

Method: Preheat the oven to 220°C / 425°F / Gas Mark 7. Pour the oil onto the baking sheet and place in the oven to heat up to the required temperature. It needs to be very hot but not smoking. Peel the potatoes and, using either a box grater or the largest hole-sized disc on a food processor, grate the potatoes and the onion. Drop the mixture onto a clean tea towel and squeeze over the sink to remove as much liquid as possible. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and add the eggs, flour and seasonings. Mix thoroughly. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more flour. Remove the baking tray from the oven carefully and spread the potato mixture over the oil. If there is any excess on the sides, spoon it over the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until deep golden brown and crispy. Cut into 5–7 cm squares (I use a pizza wheel) and serve immediately, or top with your favourite toppings.

This is a delightful little pudding that can be whipped up in minutes and is cooked in the microwave for ease and speed. Serve it hot with vanilla ice cream or custard for maximum indulgence! This amount serves 4, as it is quite rich.

Ingredients:

Method:

700-900 g King Edward or Maris Piper potatoes 1 medium onion, peeled 2 eggs 2 tsp salt and 5 turns of black pepper 1 tsp garlic powder 3-4 tbsp potato flour, cornflour or plain flour 60-80 ml olive oil

Whisk together the peanut butter and hot water until smooth. Set aside. In a medium heatproof bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa and sugar until well combined. Spoon in the oil with 90 ml cold water and stir until smooth. Take a large tablespoon and remove the centre of the pudding mixture – keep this aside. Pour in the peanut butter filling into the hole and recover with the spooned-out mixture, ensuring the filling is fully covered. Cook in an 850 W microwave for 3

Flat baking tray around 23 x 30 cm with a rim, lined with greaseproof or baking parchment

Glacé cherries and/or whole peeled almonds

KICHELS

Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F / Gas Mark 4. In a large bowl, beat the eggs until well blended. Stir in the oil, vanilla essence (if using) and lemon rind. Beat in the sugar until the mixture thickens slightly. Stir in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms. Add a little extra flour if needed. Wet your hands and roll a teaspoonful of dough into a ball the size of a small walnut. Place onto baking sheets lined with silicone paper, allowing room for spreading. Top each biscuit with half a glacé cherry or an almond, pressing lightly to flatten slightly. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

These deliciously light biscuits are easy to make, and the use of oil makes them parev, which is always an advantage. You can use a food mixer or processor, but it’s just as easy to use a whisk or hand beater – far less washing up. Keep them in an airtight tin; they will last 1 week to 10 days – if there are any left!

Ingredients: 2 eggs 150 ml flavourless oil – sunflower or vegetable A few drops of vanilla essence or 2 tsp vanilla sugar Grated rind of ½ lemon 150 g caster sugar 225 g self-raising flour Pinch of salt

Method:

PEANUT BUTTER CHOCOLATE PUDDING

I have noticed recently that there is a new American way to serve latkes – as a sheet rather than individual patties – and this is baked in the oven rather than fried on the hob. Far easier and far less mess and washing up! An added advantage is that you can cut it into squares and use them as a sort of canapé, topped with various toppings such as smoked salmon and sour cream, or cream cheese, or apple sauce or vegetables – ideal if you have multiple guests at a party. It comes out rather like a flat thin potato kugel.

Equipment:

minutes, then allow to stand for 1–2 minutes. Serve hot with ice cream.

Peanut butter filling: 3 tbsp smooth peanut butter 100 ml hot water Chocolate pudding: 4 tbsp self-raising flour 2 tbsp cocoa powder 2 tbsp caster sugar 2 tbsp flavourless oil

Room for partying Take the hassle out of planning your next event by booking Head Room. Our centrally located NW London venue offers mouthwatering, freshly prepared food, cocktails and more. Every booking supports Jami’s mental health services in the community. To enquire about hiring Head Room, visit headroomcafe.org or call 020 3301 0274. 87-89 Golders Green Road, London NW11 8EN

Head Room is Jami’s social enterprise café, supported by The Maurice Wohl Charitable Foundation. Jami is part of Jewish Care, a UK Registered Charity – Reg No. 802559.

22 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025

Advocating on behalf of the Jewish community Board of Deputies Deputy & Community Engagement Manager Sara Radivan reflects on the work of the Board this year

HE Board of Deputies of British Jews has five key priorities: fighting antisemitism; standing up for peace and security in Israel and the Middle East; defending our religious freedoms; making our community more united and more inclusive; and celebrating our faith, heritage and culture. It is now more than two years since the heinous barbaric attacks by Hamas on Israel and the rise in antisemitism on our streets and online. At the time of going to print, only three hostage bodies remain in Gaza and we will continue to advocate for their return home. The Board’s Honorary Officers are in regular communication with the Government and the opposition. Earlier this year, we launched a groundbreaking Commission on Antisemitism, chaired by the Government’s Independent Adviser on Antisemitism Lord John Mann and former Secretary of State for Defence Penny Mordaunt. The full Commission, and its recommendations, can be read on our website. The Board will continue to work to stop Hamas, Iran, Hizballah and the Houthis from ever being able to repeat the atrocities of 7 October 2023 and its aftermath, and the Board will continue to advocate for lasting peace and security for Israelis, Palestinians and the wider Middle East by advocating for a two-state solution, and expanding the Abraham Accords. The Board’s Adopt a Hostage campaign continued and we thank the Essex synagogues who adopted hostages and kept them in the forefront of everyone’s mind. I was humbled to hear released hostage Eli Sharabi at an event in Manchester, organised by UJIA, and to meet with him afterwards. I have also attended Zoom events with other released hostages. As many of you will know, I live in Manchester. Heaton Park Synagogue is not “my” Synagogue but the terror attack on Yom Kippur deeply affected the entire Manchester Jewish Community, as well as every Jewish community. I was deeply touched by the many messages I received after Yom Kippur from Jewish and nonJewish friends and colleagues, checking in to make sure I was safe and well. The Board has worked with the Government to strengthen laws protecting

synagogues and other places of worship. In partnership with the police, the Board has helped move protests away from Jewish areas. When public broadcasters allow bias to go unchecked, the Board will speak out. The Board is constantly working to ensure Jewish religious freedoms are protected. The revised Employer’s Guide to Judaism helps Jews in the workplace and working with other faith communities it is hoped to have Judaism classified by Government as an ethnicity as well as a religion, which will help ensure the protection of Jewish rights in all fields. In his first year as President, the Board’s President Phil Rosenberg travelled to every nation and region of the UK and I was delighted to join him for many of his visits. I accompanied the President to Loughton Synagogue where – at an event partnered with Loughton, Chigwell & Hainault United, East London and Essex Liberal, Harlow Reform and Woodford Forest United Synagogues – he delivered a presentation about the work of the Board, following which questions were put to the President, Senior Vice President Adrian Cohen and Vice President Andrew Gilbert. It was great to meet the local Deputies who attended this event. The following day, while in Essex, Phil Rosenberg, Adrian Cohen and Vice President Jeremy Michelson visited Clore Tikva and Ilford

Jewish Primary Schools and were joined by Andrew Gilbert at their visit to King Solomon High School. The Board is currently in discussions with PaJeS about how to organise representation of schools on the Board. Holocaust Memorial Day is often seen as the only national event marking Jewish life, and Holocaust education remains the only compulsory teaching about Jews in UK schools. Whilst Holocaust remembrance is hugely important, the Board of Deputies is also determined to show that there are living Jews in the UK today who contribute to society, the economy and our shared culture which is why the Board has launched British Jewish Culture Month, due to take place in the Hebrew month of Sivan (May/June) 2026. Look out for more information soon. The Jewish Living Experience (JLE) Exhibition continues to “travel the country” – including a recent visit to Chelmsford. The Jewish Learning Online (JLO) was launched and is available for use in schools. The JLO is an excellent free online digital educational resource for all schools aimed at KS3 pupils aged 11-14. The JLO is designed to teach nonJewish children about Jews, Judaism and antisemitism. The Board of Deputies ensures that the UK’s Jewish community can live freely and happily and continue to practise their traditions. There is no facet of Jewish life, region or denomination where the Board

of Deputies does not advocate on behalf of the community. The Board of Deputies encourages and thanks all those who pay the Communal Contribution of £35 per year with their synagogue membership. This communal contribution greatly assists the Board of Deputies to protect and advocate for the whole UK Jewish community. If you would like to give an additional donation, payments of any size can be made at https://bit.ly/Donate-BoD In our picture: Rabbi Yanky Abrams (Rabbi of Loughton Synagogue), Phil Rosenberg (Board of Deputies President), Alan Lion (Deputy for Chigwell & Hainault Synagogue), Sara Radivan (Board of Deputies Deputy and Community Engagement Manager) Middle row from left to right: Frances Bookatz (Deputy for Ilford Federation Synagogue), Anthony Levy (Deputy for Woodford Forest United Synagogue), Mike Kay (Deputy for Harlow Jewish Community) Back Row: Andrew Gilbert (Board of Deputies Vice President), Adrian Cohen (Board of Deputies Senior Vice President), Lesley Adams (Chair of Loughton Synagogue), Richard Cohen (Deputy for Loughton Synagogue)

CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n 23

The Interfaith

PERSPECTIVE

By DR EMMA HARRIS

‘T

he Interfaith Perspective’ column ends with this issue. I thank the editor, Simon Rothstein, for suggesting that I write for EJN to continue my late father’s writing legacy and maintain the Harris by-line tradition. It has been an incredible honour. I had originally intended to write a reflective piece about my almost 15-year career at the Woolf Institute. However, recent events caught my attention. They had made me livid and very sad. I want to use this space to share my thoughts with you, but I will get to that shortly. I joined the Woolf Institute in 2011. Over the years, my work has been varied and rewarding. I was first employed in a purely administrative role, but I was afforded opportunities to unearth a hidden skillset with a portfolio ranging from teaching and public engagement to grants management, donor stewardship and alumni relations. I am immensely proud of our work – our research projects, schools and university programmes, end of life care training and engagement with stakeholders and the wider public. I delight in hearing, and sharing, the news of our amazing scholars, whose achievements continue to honour the Woolf Institute name. As I reflect on what I consider to be the enormity of our responsibilities in the fractious world in which we live, I want to share two examples of our work. Each illustrates the willingness of people of all faiths to come together, learn from one another and engage in building bridges with other faith communities. First, the Institute convenes and facilitates events for the Interfaith Cambridge Connection (ICC). A recent Woolf Institute report explains that the ICC ‘brings together people of faith in Cambridge so that we can learn about one another’s traditions, understand one another better, extend hospitality to one another and become friends’. (ICC report, 2025) The steering committee includes members of local Jewish, Baha’i, Hindu, Muslim, Sikh and Christian communities. At each meeting, the group – usually comprised of around 50 leaders and grassroots members of different faiths – has focused on different themes, e.g., ‘beginnings’, ‘spiritual guides’, ‘giving’ and ‘repair the world’. The meetings have been an opportunity for connections to be made and for each attendee the chance to have their voice heard. Second, the Institute provides Religious Diversity in End of Life Care training to healthcare professionals and volunteers in hospices, hospitals and care homes to care sensitively and respectfully for Jewish, Christian and Muslim patients and their families at the end of life. This is achieved by staff better understanding the religious, social and cultural practices that surround death and dying. Since 2018, I have seen an increase in attendees who want to engage meaningfully with patients of different faiths to give them dignity in their final days. These examples are indicative of our mission ‘to seek to better understand these faiths, build trust between people of different faiths and increase understanding and cooperation in society between people of faith and those with other beliefs and world views’.

With this in mind, I draw your attention to two occurrences – the Manchester synagogue attack on Yom Kippur and the football match between Aston Villa and Maccabi Tel Aviv – which tell me how much the Institute’s work is vital to continue to gather people together for meaningful dialogue. Yom Kippur will be remembered by the Anglo-Jewish community – especially Manchester’s community – for all the wrong reasons. The holiest day in our calendar ruined by hatred and loss of life. Like it or not, the Israel-Gaza conflict has made us enemy number one. It does not matter whether we are Jewish and/or Israeli or what are our individual opinions about the conflict. We are simply placed in the same box, stereotyped as childkillers (amongst other descriptions) and hated by so many. There are times that I do not feel safe in my country of birth, in the country that my family made its home as early as the 1870s. Am I angry? I used the word livid earlier but honestly, I am overwrought with sadness. Let us not forget that antisemitism is always out there, bubbling under the surface, appearing when you least expect it. My late mother experienced it indirectly whilst in hospital not long before she passed away. Indirect or not, a defenceless and seriously ill woman – the kindest person you could ever wish to meet – hearing hateful language about Jews made her feel sick. It is easy to become complacent believing everything is OK when antisemitism does not feature high on the agenda in mainstream news or we don’t know anyone who has had a recent experience. The spectre of antisemitism rears its ugly head time and again. We are reminded to guard our way of life, protect our family and be mindful of those around us. But it is important to have a voice, find ways to engage meaningfully with our neighbours and local faith communities, share our stories and explain our fears and hopes for the future. I am a proud Tottenham Hotspur fan, something ingrained in family tradition. The Woolf Institute building

I love watching football. I have been to games all over Europe. There is no atmosphere quite like that of a noisy packed stadium. During the Champions, European and Conference Leagues’ season, I tend to watch the Italian clubs (unless Spurs are playing). On 6 November, I waived my desire to watch the AS Roma game. Instead, I felt obligated to get comfy for Aston Villa versus Maccabi Tel Aviv (MTA). Ordinarily, I would have been a neutral observer but, that evening, my loyalties leant very heavily towards the Israeli club. The furore that had erupted in the weeks before were more than disappointing. Birmingham City’s Safety Advisory Group – and every other authority liaising on the match (e.g., UK Football Policing Unit and West Midlands Police) – could have handled the situation much better. It was claimed that the safety of the Maccabi fans could not be guaranteed ‘based on concerns from West Midlands Police about its ability to deal with potential protests relating to the war between Israel and Gaza’. (Sky, 06/11/25) Authorities were later singing a different tune. Chief Superintendent Tom Joyce explained that a threat to the away fans ‘was not the primary driver’. He commented that intelligence had been received that a ‘section of the Maccabi fans… engage in quite significant levels of hooliganism’ (Sky, 08/11/25; later refuted as ‘based on false claims’ (23/11/25). If that was the primary driver, why did it take so long for an authoritative figure to stand up and say that? By then, the damage had been done. Simone Schehtman from Birmingham’s Jewish community ‘spoke emotionally of the profound legacy she believed it would have on the city and the Jewish community in the UK noting “this is a hammer blow for inclusivity… It makes Jewish people here question if they can safely stay in this city or indeed this country. It has caused deep uncertainty and we feel targeted…”’ (Birmingham Live, 07/11/25) The match was uneventful. The usual fouls, a couple of yellow cards, even a penalty. Booing from the home fans towards the opposing players. That’s football banter. What happened outside the stadium is a different matter and no reflection on MTA or its fans. Hooded and masked activists attached Palestinian flags to telegraph poles close to the stadium. Signs were displayed reading ‘No war

games allowed’ and ‘Give Zionists the red card’. I am disappointed on so many levels. But mainly, I am incredibly sad. Have any of these activists engaged with the Jewish community? Have they even considered that their Jewish neighbours may also be against the Israel-Gaza conflict? Have they tried to understand how Israelis (and Jews) feel about the 7 October 2023 horrific attacks? Why bring a game of football into this arena of hate? This activism, coupled together with the Birmingham authorities lack of clarity prior to the game, fuelled the embers of antisemitism. But please, let us remember: This was a football game, plain and simple, between clubs from different countries who had earned their right to be in that competition. Football should be a uniting force, evoking urban pride and national unity. Players from different countries, different backgrounds and faith traditions, come together to form club football. There is a lesson to be learnt. Something for the activists to consider. MTA Chief Executive, Jack Angelides, commented that the team comprises Jewish, Christian and Muslim players. ‘We’re a club that’s quite diverse’. (Sky, 05/11/25) Doesn’t that tell you something about how football can teach the world about interfaith relations, players from all faiths and none gathering in club unity? By the time you read this column, the media will have long forgotten this game. It won’t remember the Manchester synagogue attacks. It will have moved on, but these events have left deep and lasting wounds not just for the Birmingham and Manchester Jewish communities but for the whole of Anglo-Jewry. We cannot let antisemitism win. We cannot allow small sections of society to incite and encourage hatred of others, of those with whom they have not engaged. The work of the Woolf Institute is needed now more than ever. It will continue to work alongside faith communities to build bridges, to enable encounter and I hope that you too will engage with your neighbours and local faith communities but never lose sight of your own voices. Thank you for reading my column over the past three years. I send you all my very best wishes. Stay safe and be kind to each other.

S h a a k m u e n a S a h a a k c m u h e h n a a C c h h C

24 n ESSEX JEWISH NEWS n CHANUKAH 5786/DECEMBER 2025

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