The United Synagogue

Old Meets New At The Opening Of Ealing’s Brand New Synagogue

PRESS RELEASE

London,
17th October 2011


OLD MEETS NEW AT THE OPENING OF EALING'S BRAND NEW SYNAGOGUE

The Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks joined senior members of the Ealing Jewish Community to dedicate their brand new synagogue and community centre on Sunday.

The Synagogue has been able to retain the character of the old building whilst providing the most modern facilities for its members by transferring some of the most striking features, including the doors of the Ark, and some of the beautiful stained glass windows, from one to the other.

Some 150 guests comprising both current and former members attended the rededication service which was conducted by the community`s Minister, Rabbi Hershi Vogel, it`s former Minister Rev. Dr. Norman Gale and it`s honorary Chazan, Neil Shestopal.

Members related some of their fond recollections of occasions they had celebrated in the old synagogue building and the Chief Rabbi offered his warmest congratulations and used the theme of ‘Sukkot’ to offer his blessing for the continued success of the community.

Presenting the Chief Rabbi with a replica of the two tablets of the ten commandments in porcelain and gold leaf which had been custom made by Dr Michael Mars to hang above the Ark, Leslie Sommer, vice-chair of Ealing United Synagogue commented, “This is an extraordinary achievement for the Jewish community in Ealing and a testament to the hard work of Dr. Michael Mars and Judge Dawn Freedman, the co-chairs of the steering committee as well as the generosity of both the United Synagogue and the members of our Synagogue.”

Rabbi Hershi Vogel, Rabbi of Ealing United Synagogue said: “It is wonderful to see so many people gathered together form the past, present, and hopefully the future. I know that our community will continue to go from strength to strength and it is a testament to the founders of the community that we are still here today to celebrate.”

The Chief Rabbi, Lord Sacks added, “Let the rededication of this beautiful synagogue be a platform on which to continue to build the most dynamic of Jewish communities which will provide inspiration and leadership to the Kehilla for many years to come.”


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