MEMBERS of a Bournemouth Jewish community launched their synagogue’s 75th anniversary with a visit from the head of a national faith organisation.
Marie van der Zyl, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, came to Bournemouth Reform Synagogue and met with leaders of different synagogues and other religious groups.
She said it appeared Bournemouth Jewry “punched above its weight”.
Rabbi Maurice Michaels, who had initiated the visit, provided her with an opportunity to brief the community on the current situation with the board, which is the largest Jewish communal organisation in the United Kingdom, and its activities.
Following the official opening of the Bournemouth Reform Synagogue’s anniversary year, in ‘An Evening with Marie van der Zyl’, Rabbi Maurice interviewed the Board president about the organisation, her role and key achievements, and her ambitions and objectives for the remainder of her term of office.
He also asked about her personal likes and preferences, during which she was able to add to the vast amount of information the audience had already received.
Guests at the event included the mayors of Bournemouth and Christchurch and other BCP Council community leaders of a variety of faiths.
Further ‘An Evening with’ sessions have been scheduled for Reverend Dr Ian Terry on May 11 and Cllr Susan Phillips on July 6.
There will be an anniversary thanksgiving service on Shabbat, June 18.
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