Liberal synagogues across the country have celebrated the 90th birthday of Rabbi Harry Jacobi with special services and kiddushim.
The long-serving minister delivered a sermon at the Shabbat service at the Liberal Jewish Synagogue, St John's Wood, which was taken by his children, rabbis Margaret Jacobi (Birmingham Progressive) and Richard Jacobi (Woodford Liberal), along with senior LJS rabbi Alexandra Wright.
He was visibly moved at the end of the service when his young granddaughter, Tali, presented him with a Festschrift (book of honour), featuring contributions from leading Progressive rabbis and thinkers.
Rabbi Jacobi said afterwards that he was "overwhelmed with gratitude" for the gift. I can't thank everyone at Liberal Judaism enough. When looking back, I am reminded of the Book of Esther [chapter 9, verse 22] and that with God's help, I've gone 'from sorrow to joy and from mourning to a good day'."
