This has been a year to forget so far, dominated by war in Europe and its impact. So it is with relief that, for a few days at least, we are able to turn to something wholly uplifting — the Queen’s platinum jubilee.
This is, of course, the first time that a British monarch has been on the throne for 70 years and that alone is something to celebrate.
The monarchy is about far more than an individual monarch; it is about the continuity and stability that he or she represents — a golden thread that runs through British history. That has a special resonance for our community.
Lord Finkelstein has written in these pages of his mother, a survivor, who would say that so long as the Queen was safe in Buckingham Palace, she was safe in Hendon. That sums it up aptly.
But it is not just the institution of the monarchy that we celebrate this week: it is Elizabeth II herself.
Her life of service has been unique in its longevity, but it is no less unique in the loyalty and awe she inspires in the whole country.
As a community, we are fortunate that she (along with the rest of the Royal Family) is so warm towards us, hosting receptions at Buckingham Palace and acting as Patron of Norwood as well as the many visits she has made to communal areas and organisations.
Every week we say a prayer for the health of the Queen and the Royal Family. This week, we say in addition: Mazeltov!
