I know there is an overwhelming feeling of sadness at the moment – not only because of the spate of attacks and attempted attacks against synagogues and Jewish spaces but perhaps also because we have missed the allyship and solidarity we expected from the wider London community. However, I want to share moments of utter optimism, hope and support that I have witnessed this past week.
I have been reminded that people are horrified by racist attacks of any kind. Many, from faith groups to neighbours, stand as firm friends, actively seeking to pursue shared initiatives. This past Wednesday, at a Clergy study day on Great Portland Street with the amazing organisation Love and Power, eight rabbis joined 20 Christian and Muslim leaders for a conversation on creating a better society, beginning within our own institutions. It was deeply instructive. Things are not only ‘bad’; there is so much that is kind, concerned and even righteous.
Speaking of institutions, hearing our own teenagers from FPS speak so eloquently to Paddy O’Connell on Radio 4’s Broadcasting House should make us all immensely proud of our community. 32 minutes in after the News.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002vy91
We have educated, nurtured and celebrated these children to feel proud of their Jewishness, appreciative of their friends from all backgrounds and grounded regarding recent events. What we have successfully done – and we all need a lift right now – is to build true resilience in these young people. I couldn’t be prouder and I hope you will be too.
This week, we celebrate another Bar Mitzvah: the son of our treasurer. Perhaps we sometimes take it for granted when our young people come of age through B’nei Mitzvah, but it is actually an amazing choice and an expression of Jewish identity during a time of uncertainty. It is, without a doubt, something to uplift and inspire us all.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rebecca
P.S. Join the Vigil Protest Please join the vigil protest this Sunday where Rabbis Charley Baginsky and Josh Levy will be speaking. Check Facebook for confirmed details that will be released tomorrow afternoon.
Copyright © 2026 Finchley Progressive Synagogue. All rights reserved. Website designed by Addicott Web. | Charity #1167285