Nottingham Liberal Synagogue marks 60 years since its founding

Nottingham Liberal Synagogue has celebrated its diamond jubilee alongside more than 50 civic and community leaders including MPs and representatives of neighbouring Liberal and Reform Synagogues.

Among the distinguished guests at the 60th anniversary ceremony was Liberal Judaism chair, Karen Newman, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, Phil Rosenberg, and the Sheriff of Nottingham, Nick Rubins, who is a long-time member of the shul.

Also in attendance was James Naish MP, Lilian Greenwood MP, Nadia Whittome MP, and Michael Payne MP, and founding members of the shul, David Lipman MBE and Danny Rubins.

Reflecting on the synagogue’s beginnings, Lipman said: “If on that day in March 1965, the dozen or more people whom my wife Rae and I had invited to our home to discuss the formation of a Progressive Jewish group had foreseen that 60 years later we would be celebrating the anniversary as a thriving congregation – rabbi, synagogue, celebrities and all – we would have believed in miracles – a belief that would have been strengthened if we had foreseen the football league table and Forest’s position in it.”

L-R: David Bogod (NLS vice president), James Naish (Rushcliff MP), Nick Rubins (High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire and NLS member), Lilian Greenwood (Nottingham South MP), Nadia Whittome (Nottingham East MP), Michael Payne (Gedling MP), Nora Senior (Vice Lord Lieutenant) and Gary Godden (Police Crime Commissioner).[Missing Credit]

The ceremony honoured the synagogue’s history and highlighted its ongoing commitment to the community and local interfaith collaboration.

A special prayer for the city of Nottingham written by the shul’s rabbi, Gili Zidkiyahu, was included in the service, followed by an “inspiring and thought-provoking” sermon, attendees reported.

Karen Newman said NLS is “truly a jewel in the crown of Progressive Judaism in this country”.
She added: “It was a pleasure to see how the lay and spiritual leadership at Nottingham have, together, built such a vibrant, warm, diverse and inclusive community.”

Jane Ginsborg, chair of Seven Hills Sheffield Reform, said of the event and its community: “You have clearly thrived and are flourishing in your beautiful building. We look forward very much to renewing our connection with you over the coming months and years.”