Project group will work 'without the constraints of denominational identity to build a fully halachic mikveh for everyone'
June 21, 2019 13:15
ByRosa Doherty, Rosa Doherty
A cross-communal group is working to establish a mikveh in a new bespoke centre for well-being in North London, seeing it as a contributor towards good mental health.
The 60 members of the Mikveh Project include Rabbi Miriam Berger of Finchley Reform Synagogue, who said the current provision in London was “very prescriptive and often judgmental. The only non-Orthodox mikveh is at the Sternberg Centre [in Finchley] and is soulless. It is actually in a converted disabled toilet, which does not do much for the spirituality.”
There was a commitment within the group to work “without the constraints of denominational identity to build a fully halachic mikveh for everyone”.
It is envisioned that the centre, for which a site is being sought, will offer users access to therapists and complementary therapists.
Addressing the first public meeting of the Mikveh Project, Rabbi Berger said: “The rabbis of old were psychologists, helping us by giving us rituals which guide us through transitions in life.
“Yet for so many of us, their wisdom has been obscured by language, the intricacies of the customs and the layers of halachah. I want to wash away the murky exterior of mikveh and unearth the beauty as we reclaim it, along with all its restorative powers.”
Another group member, Rachel Silveira, highlighted the importance of “the ritual of mikveh to mark transitions in lives. Not just before marriage but after all sorts of significant moments — when a mum finishes breast feeding, on retirement, to celebrate significant birthdays, or the end of a long hospital treatment.
“Offering rituals in those moments gives people an inner strength and brings depth and understanding to their lives.”
Sam Clifford wanted the mikveh to become “a resource to all sorts of existing organisations. At a time when mental health is such a problem for society, we are looking for solutions within our Judaism.”
The group will seek individual donations and grants towards the project, which is expected to cost around £3.5 million. Rabbi Berger said it was looking at models to create a self-sustaining charity, rather than “another organisation that is constantly fundraising”.
