The community at Finchley Progressive Synagogue held a special civic service combined with the dedication of their newly refurbished building.
The service was led by Rabbi Rebecca Birk and Student Rabbi Richard Greene, with Progressive clergy in attendance including Mayor of Barnet Rabbi Danny Rich, Rabbi Dr Frank Hellner, Rabbi Colin Eimer, Rabbi Elliott Karstadt, Student Rabbi Yael Tischler, Student Rabbi Dr Stacy Hackner and Student Rabbi Shamaya Mirviss-Carvajal.
Other guests included the Minister of State for Courts and Legal Services Sarah Sackman KC MP, Movement for Progressive Judaism Board Members Dr Ed Kessler MBE, Karen Newman and Paul Langsford, several local councillors, and the architects of the new building.
The event gave a chance for the community to thank all those who hosted them during the renovations – including Finchley Quaker Meeting House, Trinity Church, Southgate Progressive Synagogue and Sha’arei Tsedek North London Reform Synagogue.
FPS Vice President Josie Kinchin said: “Whilst we were wandering in the desert of Finchley, Whetstone and Southgate for more than 40 weeks, we are so grateful to all those who welcomed us.”
Sarah Sackman KC MP is presented with flowers by a young FPS member