The Launch Board of The Movement for Progressive Judaism held its first meeting outside London this month, gathering at Birmingham Progressive Synagogue.
The visit reflected the Movement’s commitment to being a national organisation rooted in communities across the UK, while giving Board members the opportunity to learn more about Progressive Jewish life in the West Midlands and the history of Birmingham Progressive Synagogue.
As part of the day, the Board met with local faith leaders and partners to discuss both the challenges and opportunities facing faith communities across the region. Members also heard from longstanding BPS member Frank Doyle about the history of the synagogue and were inspired by the strength of interfaith engagement taking place across the West Midlands.
MPJ Chair Dr Ed Kessler MBE said: “The visit was a valuable reminder of the strength, leadership and commitment found in Progressive Jewish communities across the UK and Ireland. We were pleased to learn more about the history of the community and to hear about the challenges and opportunities facing faith communities across the West Midlands. The level of interfaith engagement taking place locally is impressive and the contribution being made by a relatively small Jewish community is remarkable.”
The day formed part of the Launch Board’s ongoing work to strengthen relationships with communities across the country and ensure that the Movement’s future is shaped by the experiences and priorities of Progressive Jews across the UK.
