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Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation

2026-11-10T16:38:59Z

Synagogue research: New page: Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation

{{short description|'''Reform-heritage synagogue in [[Blackpool]], belonging to the Movement for Progressive Judaism'''}}
{{Infobox organization
| name = Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation
| logo = Blackpool-reform-jewish-congregation-logo.png
| type = Synagogue; registered charity; company limited by guarantee
| founded = {{Start date|1947|11|9}}
| registration_id = 1148088 ([[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]]); company 08091243
| headquarters = The Synagogue, 40 Raikes Parade, Blackpool FY1 4EX
| location = Blackpool, Lancashire
| registration = England and Wales
| key_people = [[Rachel Davina Tax]] (chair)
| website = https://www.brjc.co.uk/
}}
'''Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation''' (BRJC) is a Reform-heritage synagogue in Blackpool, Lancashire, and a community of [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]].<ref name="BRJCJCR">David Shulman, [https://www.jewishgen.org/jcr-uk/Community/bl2/index.htm Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation], ''JCR-UK'', 13 August 2026, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MPJDirectory">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/find-a-community/ Find a Community], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> Founded on 9 November 1947, it is registered charity 1148088 and company 08091243, operating from 40 Raikes Parade.<ref name="BRJCJCR" /><ref name="BRJCCompany">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/08091243 Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation (08091243)], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> [[Rachel Davina Tax]] is listed as chair on the Charity Commission register checked on 6 November 2026.<ref name="BRJCTrustees">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5029788/trustees Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation: trustees], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== History ==
[[Anne J. Kershen|Kershen]] and [[Jonathan A. Romain|Romain]] record 1961 as the year when the congregation, listed as Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation, formally joined the Reform movement. Their appendix distinguishes these post-1942 admission dates from congregational founding dates.<ref name="KR1995Admission">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, pp. 358–359.</ref>

[[JCR-UK]] records that the congregation began under a Liberal name and initially met in a Methodist church in Raikes Parade. It records successive Liberal, Progressive and Reform names during the 1940s and 1950s, with the present name appearing from about 1959. The directory places it at 40 Raikes Parade by 1961.<ref name="BRJCJCR" />

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Selected ministers recorded by JCR-UK
! Minister !! Recorded service !! Source
|-
| [[Simon J. Goldberg]] || About 1951–1959 || <ref name="BRJCJCR" />
|-
| [[Samuel Rodreigues-Pereira]] || About 1976–1978 || <ref name="BRJCJCR" />
|-
| [[Norman Zalud]] || From about 2000; JCR-UK cites the 2019 annual report for subsequent part-time service || <ref name="BRJCJCR" />
|}
Its 2025 report says that members acting as lay readers conduct most services, with visiting rabbinic support. JCR-UK records the congregation in the under-50-household membership band in the 2016 national survey; that is a historical band, not a current membership count.<ref name="BRJCReport2025">Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A18804468&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=5029788 Financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2025], ''Annual report and accounts'', January 2026, pp. 2, 4, 6–10, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="BRJCJCR" />

== Affiliation and governance ==
According to [[JCR-UK]], the congregation initially belonged to the [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Union of Liberal and Progressive Synagogues]] and moved to the organisation later called [[The Movement for Reform Judaism]] in 1961. It became a constituent community of [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]] when the Reform movement merged into it on 1 January 2026.<ref name="BRJCJCR" /> Its 2025 report describes the charity trustees as the congregation’s council members, including its executive officers and custodial trustees, and states that all those elected at the 2024 AGM were re-elected at the 2025 AGM.<ref name="BRJCReport2025" />

== Charity, officers and accounts ==
The congregation was incorporated on 31 May 2012 as company 08091243, a private company limited by guarantee without share capital and exempt from using “Limited” in its name.<ref name="BRJCCompany" /> It was registered with the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] on 13 July 2012.<ref name="BRJCGovernance">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5029788/governance Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation: governance], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> Its full register address is The Synagogue, 40 Raikes Parade, [[Blackpool]] FY1 4EX.<ref name="BRJCAddress">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5029788/contact-information Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation: contact information], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

Its governing document is the memorandum and articles incorporated on 31 May 2012, amended by special resolution on 27 April 2017. The registered objects are to advance the Jewish religion, advance education and pursue such other purposes recognised as charitable by the law of England and Wales as its trustees determine.<ref name="BRJCObjects">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5029788/governing-document?_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_organisationNumber=5029788 Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation: governing document], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

=== Trustees ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Current trustees on the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] register
! Trustee !! Role !! Appointment recorded by the Charity Commission !! End of trusteeship !! Source
|-
| [[Rachel Davina Tax]] || Chair || 28 April 2019 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="BRJCTrustees" />
|-
| [[James Hardman]] || Trustee || 8 May 2022 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="BRJCTrustees" />
|-
| [[David Whippman]] || Trustee || 31 May 2020 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="BRJCTrustees" />
|-
| [[Michael Benjamin Tax]] || Trustee || 28 April 2019 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="BRJCTrustees" />
|-
| [[Elizabeth Tax (trustee, Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation)|Elizabeth Tax]] || Trustee || 26 October 2012 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="BRJCTrustees" />
|-
| [[Martin Block (trustee, Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation)|Martin Block]] || Trustee || 26 October 2012 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="BRJCTrustees" />
|-
| [[Sara Rebekah Tax]] || Trustee || 26 October 2012 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="BRJCTrustees" />
|-
| [[Alan Charles Martin Cantor]] || Trustee || 11 July 2012 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="BRJCTrustees" />
|}

=== Company directors ===
The register dates above concern trusteeships. [[Companies House]] records the separate company appointments and resignations below. In particular, the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] still lists [[David Whippman]] as a trustee, while Companies House records his resignation as a director on 18 May 2026.<ref name="BRJCTrustees" /><ref name="BRJCOfficers">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/08091243/officers Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation (08091243): officers], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Current and former company officers recorded by Companies House
! Officer !! Office !! Appointment !! Resignation !! Status on 6 November 2026 !! Source
|-
| [[Martin Daniel Block]] || Director || 25 October 2012 || — || Active || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Alan Charles Martin Cantor]] || Director || 31 May 2012 || — || Active || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[James Hardman]] || Director || 1 January 2026 || — || Active || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Michael Benjamin Tax]] || Director || 28 April 2019 || — || Active || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Nancy Elizabeth Tax]] || Director || 25 October 2012 || — || Active || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Rachel Davina Tax]] || Director || 28 April 2019 || — || Active || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Sara Rebekah Tax]] || Director || 25 October 2012 || — || Active || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Estelle Rosaline Ballan]] || Director || 25 October 2012 || 10 October 2019 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Leigh-Anne Bunting]] || Director || 28 April 2019 || 31 May 2020 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Gillian Ruth Cantor]] || Director || 25 October 2012 || 19 April 2026 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Sandra Cohen]] || Director || 22 April 2015 || 28 April 2017 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Annie Desser]] || Director || 28 April 2017 || 25 April 2019 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Jason Ross Douglas]] || Director || 23 April 2014 || 28 April 2019 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Shirley Carole Douglas]] || Director || 25 October 2012 || 24 November 2018 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Leslie Firth]] || Director || 31 May 2012 || 31 March 2025 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Ilayne Maxine Jones]] || Director || 25 October 2012 || 22 April 2015 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Avril Mannino]] || Director || 29 April 2013 || 19 April 2026 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Angela Michelle Peake]] || Director || 23 April 2014 || 23 April 2014 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| Angela Michelle Peake || Director || 23 April 2014 || 7 May 2023 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Maxine Alyson Perkins]] || Director || 25 October 2012 || 28 April 2017 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Gerald Stoll]] || Director || 25 October 2012 || 23 April 2014 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| [[Leon David Tax]] || Director || 31 May 2012 || 29 June 2013 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| Rachel Davina Tax || Director || 25 October 2012 || 28 April 2017 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|-
| David Whippman || Director || 31 May 2020 || 18 May 2026 || Resigned || <ref name="BRJCOfficers" />
|}

=== Accounts ===
The published accounts separate the main income and expenditure account from a burial account. The register’s total income and expenditure include both; the table below uses those combined totals, not the main account alone.<ref name="BRJCReport2025" /><ref name="BRJCOverview">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5029788 Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation: charity overview], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Recent accounts (£; combined main and burial accounts)
! Year ended 31 December !! Income !! Expenditure !! Net assets / reserves !! Source
|-
| 2024 || 32,478 || 40,905 || 137,171 || <ref name="BRJCReport2025" />
|-
| 2025 || 38,046 || 52,134 || 123,083 || <ref name="BRJCReport2025" />
|}

== Relations with Israel ==
The November 2020 issue of the congregation’s newsletter, Migdal, named [[Magen David Adom]] and [[Technion - Israel Institute of Technology|Technion University in Haifa]] as beneficiaries of that year’s Kol Nidre appeal, alongside [[Trinity Hospice Blackpool]].<ref name="BRJCMigdalNov2020">Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation, [https://web.archive.org/web/20211130113407id_/https://www.brjc.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2020-November.pdf Migdal], ''Migdal'', November 2020, p. 12; Wayback capture, 30 November 2021, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> In February 2021 the newsletter reported donations to [[Magen David Adom UK]], [[Technion UK]] and Trinity Hospice, and printed an acknowledgement from Magen David Adom saying the donation would support medical supplies and equipment. The reported amounts are set out below.<ref name="BRJCMigdalFeb2021">Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation, [https://web.archive.org/web/20211130124310id_/https://www.brjc.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2021-February.pdf Migdal], ''Migdal'', February 2021, p. 17; Wayback capture, 30 November 2021, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Appeal donations reported in Migdal, February 2021
! Recipient !! Amount reported !! Source
|-
| Magen David Adom UK || £300 || <ref name="BRJCMigdalFeb2021" />
|-
| Technion UK || £300 || <ref name="BRJCMigdalFeb2021" />
|-
| Trinity Hospice || £300 || <ref name="BRJCMigdalFeb2021" />
|}
The August 2021 issue announced that its next Kol Nidre appeal would be divided between “[[Hadassa hospital]]” and a UK multiple-sclerosis charity. It did not identify a hospital campus or report the eventual sum donated.<ref name="BRJCMigdalAug2021">Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation, [https://web.archive.org/web/20260120105413id_/https://www.brjc.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/2021-August.pdf Migdal], ''Migdal'', August 2021, inside front cover and pp. 16–17; Wayback capture, 20 January 2026, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The same issue reproduced an article by [[Yvette Alt Miller]], “The Flag of Israel: 7 Facts”, with Israeli-flag imagery.<ref name="BRJCMigdalAug2021" />

== See also ==
* [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]]
* [[The Movement for Reform Judaism]]
* [[Liberal Judaism (UK)]]
* [[Synagogues in the United Kingdom]]

== External links ==
* [https://www.brjc.co.uk/ Official website]
* [https://www.facebook.com/BRJCShule Official Facebook page]

== Notes ==
<references/>

[[Category:Charities in England and Wales]]
[[Category:Jewish charities in the United Kingdom]]

File:Blackpool-reform-jewish-congregation-logo.png

2026-11-10T16:37:54Z

Synagogue research: == Summary == Logo of Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation, used to identify the organisation on its Powerbase profile. Source: https://www.jewishgen.org/jcr-uk/Community/bl2/images/BRJC%20logo.png (retrieved 6 November 2026). Copyright/licence status not established; no licence is claimed.

== Summary ==
Logo of Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation, used to identify the organisation on its Powerbase profile. Source: https://www.jewishgen.org/jcr-uk/Community/bl2/images/BRJC%20logo.png (retrieved 6 November 2026). Copyright/licence status not established; no licence is claimed.

Finchley Reform Synagogue

2026-11-10T16:37:16Z

Synagogue research: Finchley Reform Synagogue (part 2 of 2: accounts, notes)

{{short description|'''Reform-heritage synagogue in [[North Finchley]], [[London]], belonging to the Movement for Progressive Judaism'''}}
{{Infobox organization
| name = Finchley Reform Synagogue
| logo = Finchley-reform-synagogue-logo.png
| type = Synagogue; registered charity; company limited by guarantee
| founded = {{Start date|1960}}
| registration_id = 1137557 ([[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]]); company 07321494
| headquarters = 101 Fallow Court Avenue, London N12 0BE
| location = North Finchley, London
| registration = England and Wales
| key_people = [[Zöe Jacobs]] (principal clergy, 2024/25); [[Paul Goodman (trustee, Finchley Reform Synagogue)|Paul Goodman]] (chair, register checked 6 November 2026)
| website = https://www.frs.org.uk/
}}
'''Finchley Reform Synagogue''' (FRS) is a Reform-heritage synagogue in North Finchley, London, listed as a community of [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]].<ref name="FRSLeadJCR">David Shulman, [https://www.jewishgen.org/jcr-uk/london/finchley_ref/index.htm Finchley Reform Synagogue], ''JCR-UK'', 30 December 2025, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MPJDirectory">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/find-a-community/ Find a Community], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> Founded in 1960, it became a charitable company limited by guarantee in 2010; its charity number is 1137557 and its company number is 07321494.<ref name="FRSReport2025">Finchley Reform Synagogue, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A18868365&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=5011791 Directors report and financial statements, 31 August 2025], ''Annual report and accounts'', 9 February 2026, pp. 2, 4–13, 22–23, 33–34, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="FRSGovernance">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5011791/governance Finchley Reform Synagogue: governance], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> Its 2024/25 report records the establishment of Cantor Zöe Jacobs as principal clergy and 1,011 member households at 31 August 2025.<ref name="FRSReport2025" />

== History ==
[[Anne J. Kershen|Kershen]] and [[Jonathan A. Romain|Romain]] record 1962 as the year when the congregation, listed as Finchley Reform Synagogue, formally joined the Reform movement. Their appendix distinguishes these post-1942 admission dates from congregational founding dates.<ref name="KR1995Admission">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, pp. 358–359.</ref>

[[JCR-UK]] records that the congregation was initially called Woodside Park & District Reform Synagogue, retaining that name until about 1963. Its early meeting places included the Unitarian church in Woodside Park and Granville Hall, before the move to Fallow Court Avenue by about 1969.<ref name="FRSLeadJCR" />

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Selected changes in clergy recorded by JCR-UK and the congregation
! Clergy member !! Recorded service !! Source
|-
| [[Henry Goldstein]] || Rabbi, 1968–1973 || <ref name="FRSLeadJCR" />
|-
| [[Jeffrey Newman]] || Senior rabbi, 1973–2000; subsequently emeritus rabbi || <ref name="FRSLeadJCR" />
|-
| [[Miriam Berger]] || Associate rabbi from 2006; principal rabbi, 2008–2024 || <ref name="FRSLeadJCR" />
|-
| [[Zöe Jacobs]] || Established as principal clergy in the 2024/25 reporting year || <ref name="FRSReport2025" />
|}
The congregation’s 2024/25 report describes the expanded use of its new synagogue building and records its BREEAM environmental certification in July 2025.<ref name="FRSReport2025" />

== Affiliation and governance ==
According to [[JCR-UK]], FRS joined the organisation later called [[The Movement for Reform Judaism]] in 1962. It is included in [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]]’s community directory.<ref name="FRSLeadJCR" /><ref name="MPJDirectory" /> Its directors are its council members and charity trustees, elected by the membership; the articles also permit up to five council members to be co-opted until the next annual general meeting. Its burial arrangements operate through the [[Jewish Joint Burial Society]], and it is entitled to representation at the [[Board of Deputies of British Jews]].<ref name="FRSReport2025" />

== Charity, officers and accounts ==
The [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] records the charity’s registration on 20 August 2010 and a subsequent transfer of funds from the predecessor charity, number 1057053, on 19 June 2012.<ref name="FRSGovernance" /> The congregation’s report dates the transfer of the predecessor’s assets, liabilities and operations to 1 October 2010.<ref name="FRSReport2025" /> JCR-UK instead prints the predecessor’s charity number as 1057953, differing from the register’s 1057053.<ref name="FRSLeadJCR" /><ref name="FRSGovernance" /> The register’s full contact address is Finchley Reform Synagogue, 101 Fallow Court Avenue, London N12 0BE.<ref name="FRSAddress">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5011791/contact-information Finchley Reform Synagogue: contact information], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

Its governing document is the memorandum and articles incorporated on 21 July 2010. Its registered objects concern the practice, promotion, development and advancement of Judaism through public worship and religious, educational, social, cultural and charitable activities.<ref name="FRSObjects">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5011791/governing-document?_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_organisationNumber=5011791 Finchley Reform Synagogue: governing document], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

=== Trustees ===
The following are the trustees listed on the live register on 6 November 2026.<ref name="FRSTrustees">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5011791/trustees Finchley Reform Synagogue: trustees], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Current charity trustees
! Trustee !! Role !! Appointment recorded by the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] !! End of trusteeship !! Source
|-
| [[Paul Goodman (trustee, Finchley Reform Synagogue)|Paul Goodman]] || Chair || 26 March 2026 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Matthew Ross Granger]] || Trustee || 26 March 2026 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Mark Choueke (trustee, Finchley Reform Synagogue)|Mark Choueke]] || Trustee || 26 March 2026 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Avraham David Marco]] || Trustee || 20 March 2025 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Michael John Gabbay]] || Trustee || 21 March 2024 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Lisa Rousseau-Bedouch]] || Trustee || 21 March 2024 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Andrew Charles Fetterman]] || Trustee || 21 March 2024 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[David Alan Evans]] || Trustee || 21 March 2024 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Deborah Nancy Fiona Mowbray]] || Trustee || 21 March 2024 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Raymond Andre Simonson]] || Trustee || 21 March 2024 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Gary Ian Philip]] || Trustee || 21 March 2024 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[David Reinhardt]] || Trustee || 21 March 2024 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Abigail Chloe Jacobi]] || Trustee || 24 April 2023 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Richard Maurice Emile Reuben]] || Trustee || 13 December 2021 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Jenny Nuni]] || Trustee || 18 December 2017 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="FRSTrustees" />
|}
=== Company officers ===
[[Companies House]] records company 07321494 and the appointments and resignations below. These are company-office dates, not necessarily the same dates as the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]]’s trustee entries.<ref name="FRSOfficers">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07321494/officers Finchley Reform Synagogue (07321494): officers], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The Charity Commission lists [[Jenny Nuni]] as a trustee appointed on 18 December 2017; Companies House lists [[Jennifer Michelle Nuni]] as a director appointed on 19 December 2017. The Commission dates [[Richard Maurice Emile Reuben]]’s trusteeship to 13 December 2021, while Companies House dates his current directorship to 20 December 2021.<ref name="FRSTrustees" /><ref name="FRSOfficers" />

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Current and former company officers
! Officer !! Office !! Appointment !! Resignation !! Status on 6 November 2026 !! Source
|-
| [[David Reinhardt]] || Secretary || 26 March 2026 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Mark Simon Choueke]] || Director || 26 March 2026 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[David Alan Evans]] || Director || 21 March 2024 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Andrew Charles Fetterman]] || Director || 21 March 2024 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Michael Gabbay]] || Director || 21 March 2024 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Paul Martin Goodman]] || Director || 26 March 2026 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Matthew Ross Granger]] || Director || 26 March 2026 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Abigail Chloe Jacobi]] || Director || 24 April 2023 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Avraham David Marco]] || Director || 20 March 2025 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Deborah Nancy Fiona Mowbray]] || Director || 21 March 2024 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| Jennifer Michelle Nuni || Director || 19 December 2017 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Gary Ian Philip]] || Director || 21 March 2024 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| David Reinhardt || Director || 21 March 2024 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| Richard Maurice Emile Reuben || Director || 20 December 2021 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Lisa Deborah Rousseau-Bedouch]] || Director || 21 March 2024 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Raymond Andrè Simonson]] || Director || 21 March 2024 || — || Active || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Benedict Joel David Noah]] || Secretary || 21 March 2022 || 26 March 2026 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Susan Philip]] || Secretary || 21 July 2010 || 18 March 2014 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Michael Anthony Salida]] || Secretary || 20 March 2019 || 21 March 2022 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Matthew Stratton]] || Secretary || 8 December 2014 || 20 March 2019 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Laura Michelle Tobias]] || Secretary || 18 March 2014 || 8 December 2014 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Roger Howard Barden]] || Director || 19 March 2012 || 21 March 2022 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Joan Estelle Bayes]] || Director || 11 October 2010 || 19 March 2012 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Sara Gina Bensusan]] || Director || 18 March 2014 || 26 March 2020 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Janet Lee Berenson]] || Director || 20 March 2025 || 7 June 2026 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Melanie Ann Victoria Bruck]] || Director || 26 March 2020 || 21 March 2024 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Debra Karen Brunner]] || Director || 11 October 2010 || 8 February 2016 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Mark Charles Claydon]] || Director || 15 February 2015 || 8 February 2016 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Paul David Demby]] || Director || 11 October 2010 || 8 February 2016 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Tamar Dhiri]] || Director || 19 March 2012 || 15 March 2015 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Helen Lynn Dropkin]] || Director || 18 March 2014 || 5 March 2018 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Martin Dropkin]] || Director || 17 December 2018 || 18 March 2021 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Jonathan Richard Ellis]] || Director || 13 October 2010 || 21 March 2011 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Manya Ellen Dilly Eversley]] || Director || 12 October 2014 || 8 February 2016 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Lisa Joanne Gayer]] || Director || 13 October 2010 || 6 March 2017 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers" />
|-
| [[Andrew Nicholas Gilbert]] || Director || 11 October 2010 || 19 March 2012 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07321494/officers?page=2 Finchley Reform Synagogue (07321494): officers, page 2], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
|-
| [[Jonathan Simon Glass]] || Director || 11 October 2010 || 10 September 2012 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Wendy Jane Gold]] || Director || 11 October 2010 || 19 March 2012 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Candice Samantha Gubbay]] || Director || 6 March 2017 || 18 March 2021 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Amit Handelsman]] || Director || 11 October 2010 || 10 November 2014 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Nicole Aviva Hay-Carter]] || Director || 26 March 2020 || 21 March 2024 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Kathryn Anne Hirst]] || Director || 11 October 2010 || 18 March 2013 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Pam Humphreys]] || Director || 21 July 2010 || 19 March 2012 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Robert Griffith Humphreys]] || Director || 13 November 2017 || 18 July 2024 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Sally Jane Hurcomb]] || Director || 19 March 2012 || 18 March 2014 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Hannah Jacobs]] || Director || 21 March 2011 || 6 March 2017 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Holly Sue Kal-Weiss]] || Director || 19 March 2012 || 18 March 2013 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Victoria Irana Kubie]] || Director || 10 October 2016 || 9 June 2017 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Juliet Landau Pope]] || Director || 21 March 2011 || 14 January 2013 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Benjamin Henry Langleben]] || Director || 1 January 2020 || 16 March 2023 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Catherine Levy]] || Director || 11 July 2016 || 30 September 2017 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Felix David Raphal Mara]] || Director || 21 March 2022 || 11 September 2023 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Avi David Marco]] || Director || 8 February 2016 || 21 March 2022 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Abigail Morris]] || Director || 15 February 2015 || 1 July 2016 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Simon Benedict Morris]] || Director || 20 March 2019 || 16 March 2023 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Shulamit Leah Henrietta Morris-Evans]] || Director || 18 March 2021 || 16 March 2023 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Graham Stephen Moss]] || Director || 15 March 2015 || 6 March 2017 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| Graham Stephen Moss || Director || 21 July 2010 || 18 March 2014 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Joseph Marc Nathan]] || Director || 16 March 2023 || 20 March 2025 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| Benedict Joel David Noah || Director || 8 February 2016 || 26 March 2026 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Susan Pearlman]] || Director || 11 October 2010 || 21 March 2011 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Susan Ruth Philip]] || Director || 18 March 2014 || 5 March 2018 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Philip Barry Phillips]] || Director || 16 March 2023 || 26 March 2026 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Leah Rabinowitz]] || Director || 6 March 2017 || 1 January 2020 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| Michael Anthony Salida || Director || 15 February 2015 || 21 March 2022 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Roni Schwarts]] || Director || 18 March 2014 || 6 March 2017 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Max Harry Stainton-Parfitt]] || Director || 26 March 2020 || 16 March 2023 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Robert Anthony Stitcher]] || Director || 8 February 2016 || 26 March 2020 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| Matthew Stratton || Director || 8 September 2014 || 20 March 2019 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Jeremy Paul Summerfield]] || Director || 21 March 2024 || 26 March 2026 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers2" />
|-
| [[Keith Andrew Sussman]] || Director || 18 March 2021 || 21 March 2024 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers3">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07321494/officers?page=3 Finchley Reform Synagogue (07321494): officers, page 3], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
|-
| Laura Michelle Tobias || Director || 19 March 2012 || 18 March 2014 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers3" />
|-
| [[Nicole Philippa Valens]] || Director || 26 March 2020 || 16 March 2023 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers3" />
|-
| [[Judith Rachel Williams]] || Director || 11 October 2010 || 19 March 2012 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers3" />
|-
| [[Emma Suzanne Wohl]] || Director || 19 June 2018 || 24 July 2024 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers3" />
|-
| [[Gillian Yentis]] || Director || 14 March 2016 || 13 January 2020 || Resigned || <ref name="FRSOfficers3" />
|}
The historical officer entries continue on the second and third pages of the Companies House list.<ref name="FRSOfficers2" /><ref name="FRSOfficers3" />

=== Accounts ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Recent annual accounts (£; net assets are assets less liabilities)
! Year ended 31 August !! Income !! Expenditure !! Net assets !! Source
|-
| 2023 || 1,860,542 || 1,679,864 || 2,849,255 || <ref name="FRSReport2024">Finchley Reform Synagogue, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A17173375&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=5011791 Directors report and financial statements, 31 August 2024], ''Annual report and accounts'', 10 February 2025, pp. 6, 8–9, 23–24, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
|-
| 2024 || 1,829,996 || 1,820,667 || 2,858,584 || <ref name="FRSReport2024" />
|-
| 2025 || 2,085,092 || 1,882,790 || 3,060,886 || <ref name="FRSReport2025" />
|}

== Relations with Israel ==
In its 2024/25 annual report FRS describes itself as a “Progressive Zionist community”, affirms the centrality of Israel to the Jewish people and advocates a democratic and pluralistic Jewish state. The same report acknowledges divisions within the community over the war in Gaza and describes a “Voices of Israel” educational programme, with speakers including Jonathan Freedland and [[Hagai M. Segal]], intended to allow different views to be discussed.<ref name="FRSReport2025" />

A June 2022 archived page describes an Israel committee organising cultural, historical and political programmes about Israel.<ref name="FRSIsraelCommittee">Finchley Reform Synagogue, [https://web.archive.org/web/20220626051746id_/https://www.frs.org.uk/teamfrsisrael Team FRS – Israel], ''Finchley Reform Synagogue'', Wayback capture, 26 June 2022, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> A February 2024 capture of its “Israel Resources and Support” page promoted [[Arzenu - International Federation of Reform and Progressive Religious Zionists|Arzenu]]’s “Stand With Israel” resources and an emergency appeal by the [[Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism]], including assistance through [[Keren B’Kavod]].<ref name="FRSIsraelSupport">Finchley Reform Synagogue, [https://web.archive.org/web/20240229140058id_/https://www.frs.org.uk/israel-resources-and-support.html Israel Resources and Support], ''Finchley Reform Synagogue'', Wayback capture, 29 February 2024, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The 2023/24 annual report records a “Shabbat of Solidarity”, an Israeli-music fundraising concert for the IMPJ and [[Israel Religious Action Center]] emergency campaign, and support for Israelis stranded in [[London]] after 7 October 2023.<ref name="FRSReport2024" />

For [[Yom Hazikaron]] and [[Yom Ha’atzmaut]] in May 2024, the congregation advertised a discussion with [[Jeremy Leigh]], a food demonstration by [[Ruth Nieman]] and physical challenges raising money for [[Project Benji]], in memory of Major [[Benji Trakeniski]].<ref name="FRSMay2024">Finchley Reform Synagogue, [https://web.archive.org/web/20240529181800id_/https://www.frs.org.uk/event/yom-haatzmaut-5784 Y’mei Hazikaron & Ha’atzma’ut 5784], ''Finchley Reform Synagogue'', Wayback capture, 29 May 2024, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> Its promotional artwork used an Israeli flag behind the title “Y’mei Hazikaron & Ha’atzmaut”.<ref name="FRSArtwork">Finchley Reform Synagogue, [https://images.shulcloud.com/1566/uploads/11.png Y’mei Hazikaron & Ha’atzmaut: event artwork], ''Finchley Reform Synagogue'', 2024, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The synagogue’s announcement does not identify the legal recipient or state that the proceeds were for serving soldiers.<ref name="FRSMay2024" />

The 2024/25 report records a [[Yom Ha’atzmaut]] phone-banking evening linked to [[World Zionist Congress]] elections, a musical evening with the Israeli Reform movement supporting election registration, and a coffee morning for former [[Israel Defense Forces|Israel Defence Forces]] and other military personnel. It also identifies Israel tours and Israel gap-year programmes among activities eligible for FRS Cares bursaries.<ref name="FRSReport2025" /> The 2022/23 report records monthly visits by an Israeli volunteer through the [[Shinshin]] programme for the second consecutive year.<ref name="FRSReport2023">Finchley Reform Synagogue, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A15345162&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=5011791 Directors report and financial statements, 31 August 2023], ''Annual report and accounts'', 2024, p. 11, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== See also ==
* [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]]
* [[The Movement for Reform Judaism]]
* [[Synagogues in the United Kingdom]]

== External links ==
* [https://www.facebook.com/finchleyreform Official Facebook page]

== Notes ==
<references/>

[[Category:Charities in England and Wales]]
[[Category:Jewish charities in the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Synagogues in London]]

Finchley Reform Synagogue

2026-11-10T16:36:10Z

Synagogue research: New page: Finchley Reform Synagogue (part 1 of 2)

Manchester Reform Synagogue

2026-11-10T15:07:16Z

Synagogue research: Manchester Reform Synagogue (part 2 of 2: accounts, Israel, notes)

{{short description|'''Reform-heritage synagogue in central [[Manchester]], belonging to the Movement for Progressive Judaism'''}}
{{Infobox organization
| name = Manchester Reform Synagogue
| logo =
| type = Synagogue; registered charities
| founded = {{Start date|1856}}
| registration_id = 1118957 and 1205446 ([[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]])
| headquarters = Suite 1B, First Floor, Carlton House, 16–18 Albert Square, Manchester M2 5PE
| location = Manchester
| registration = England and Wales
| key_people = [[Scott Aaron]] (rabbi); [[Harold Weinstock]] (chair of [[Manchester Reform Congregation]])
| website = https://www.jacksonsrow.org/
}}
'''Manchester Reform Synagogue''', also known as Jackson’s Row, is a Reform-heritage congregation in central Manchester and a community of [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]].<ref name="MRSJCR">David Shulman, [https://www.jewishgen.org/jcr-uk/community/m44_reform/index.htm Manchester Reform Synagogue], ''JCR-UK'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MPJDirectory">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/find-a-community/ Find a Community], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The congregation dates its establishment to 1856; its operating charity is Manchester Reform Congregation, number 1118957, alongside a separately registered [[Manchester Reform Synagogue CIO]], number 1205446, which the congregation’s 2025 report describes as dormant pending a planned transfer to a charitable incorporated organisation.<ref name="MRSReport2025">Manchester Reform Congregation, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A19452834&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=4026511 Annual report and audited financial statements for the financial year ended 31 December 2025], ''Annual report and accounts'', 20 October 2026, pp. 3–7, 13–16, 21–22, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> Rabbi Scott Aaron joined in July 2026.<ref name="MRSAaron">Manchester Reform Synagogue, [https://www.jacksonsrow.org/2026/07/17/rabbi-scott-aron/ Welcome Rabbi Scott Aaron], ''Manchester Reform Synagogue'', 17 July 2026, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== History ==
[[Michael Leigh]]’s history of British Reform Judaism dates the [[Manchester]] Congregation of British Jews to 1856 and describes the role of [[Tobias Theodores]] and the first minister, [[Solomon Marcus Schiller-Szinessy]], in its establishment. Leigh dates the consecration of the Park Place synagogue to 25 March 1858.<ref name="Leigh1973">Michael Leigh, ‘Reform Judaism in Britain (1840–1970)’, in Dow Marmur (ed.), ''Reform Judaism: Essays on Reform Judaism in Britain'', Reform Synagogues of Great Britain, 1973, pp. 36–38, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> [[JCR-UK]] instead gives a founding date of 1857, while the congregation’s annual report gives 1856.<ref name="MRSJCR" /><ref name="MRSReport2025" />

[[Anne J. Kershen|Kershen]] and [[Jonathan A. Romain|Romain]] describe Manchester as the first provincial Reform community. They report that a Reform Association was established in the city on 17 February 1856, with [[David Hesse]], Horatio Micholls and [[Tobias Theodores]] among its provisional committee, and that its resolutions called for the adoption of the Margaret Street (West London) prayer book, liturgy and ritual and the introduction of a choir. The Orthodox Halliwell Street committee and Chief Rabbi [[Nathan Marcus Adler|Nathan Adler]] would make only minor concessions, while the Reformers offered a single concession, retention of the Second Day of festivals; a site was acquired at the junction of Cheetham Hill Road and Park Place.<ref name="KR1995p63">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 63.</ref> The foundation stone of what was first designated the Park Place Synagogue of British Jews of Manchester was laid in March 1857.<ref name="KR1995p64">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 64.</ref> The synagogue was consecrated on 25 March 1858, to a design by [[Edward Salomons]], with an organ and a mixed choir of forty; Kershen and Romain describe it as the first purpose-built British Reform synagogue, and say that the sexes were seated separately until 1938.<ref name="KR1995p65">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 65.</ref><ref name="KR1995p66">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 66.</ref>

According to Kershen and Romain, the Second Day was the point on which the congregation differed from [[The West London Synagogue of British Jews|West London Synagogue]]: because Manchester would not conform to West London’s requirements, Park Place was an associate rather than a branch, and the autonomy that resulted set the pattern for later Reform congregations. They write that conservatism held for two years, but that in 1860 those in favour of abolishing the Second Day prevailed and [[Solomon Marcus Schiller-Szinessy|Schiller-Szinessy]] resigned in protest.<ref name="KR1995p65" /><ref name="KR1995p67">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 67.</ref> [[Gustav Gottheil]], formerly third minister to the Reform community in Berlin, was the second minister; during a thirteen-year ministry he introduced confirmation services for boys and girls, a special memorial prayer on the Day of Atonement, a seven-year cycle of Torah readings and more English, and left in September 1873 for the Emanu-El Synagogue in New York.<ref name="KR1995p68">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 68.</ref><ref name="KR1995p69">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 69.</ref> [[Laurence Mark Simmons]] is described as the first English-born minister of the congregation; his ministry ended with his early death in 1900, and Kershen and Romain put the membership at 500 by the end of the century.<ref name="KR1995p70">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 70.</ref>

In 1898 [[Morris Joseph]], minister of West London, proposed a non-financial ‘federation’ of the three Reform synagogues in England. West London’s annual report recorded an ‘extremely unfavourable’ reply from Manchester, whose lay council said that the synagogue’s community and civic position was of far more importance than the proposed federation and gave as reasons that it did not want to disturb the harmony of the Manchester Jewish community, that a formal federation would highlight differences within Anglo-Jewry, and that its leaders wished to work for the unity of the whole of Anglo-Jewry.<ref name="KR1995p80">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 80.</ref><ref name="KR1995p81">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 81.</ref> Kershen and Romain write that the plan was not reconsidered until 1942, when the resolution to establish the Associated British Synagogues was passed at a meeting held in Manchester.<ref name="KR1995p81" /> They also record that [[Alexander Levy]] of Manchester was listed as chairman of the movement in 1955.<ref name="KR1995p362">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 362.</ref>

JCR-UK records that the Park Place building was destroyed in an air raid on 1 June 1941. After temporary premises, the congregation opened the Jackson’s Row synagogue in the early 1950s. [[Sharman Kadish]] describes the building, by [[Eric Levy]] and [[Peter Cummings (architect)|Peter Cummings]], as a red-brick adaptation of the facade of [[Holy Law Synagogue]].<ref name="MRSJCR" /><ref name="Kadish2006">Sharman Kadish, ''Jewish Heritage in England: An Architectural Guide'', Swindon: English Heritage, 2006, p. 152, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The congregation held its final Sabbath service there on 26 November 2022 and a deconsecration service the following day.<ref name="MRSJCR" />

The congregation announced a move to Albert Square in August 2026.<ref name="MRSNewHome">Manchester Reform Synagogue, [https://www.jacksonsrow.org/2026/08/08/synagogue-building-development/ Our home in the very heart of Manchester City Centre], ''Manchester Reform Synagogue'', 8 August 2026, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> Its 2025 accounts, approved in October 2026, describe a five-year lease on city-centre premises and continuing efforts to buy a building.<ref name="MRSReport2025" />

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Selected recent ministers
! Minister !! Service recorded by JCR-UK !! Source
|-
| [[Reuven Silverman]] || 1977–2022 || <ref name="MRSJCR" />
|-
| [[Robyn Ashworth-Steen]] || Associate rabbi from December 2018; subsequently principal rabbi until 2023 || <ref name="MRSJCR" />
|-
| [[Scott Aaron]] || From July 2026 || <ref name="MRSJCR" />
|}
== Affiliation and governance ==
[[JCR-UK]] records the congregation as a founding member of the 1942 association which became [[The Movement for Reform Judaism]], and as a constituent community of [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]] from 1 January 2026.<ref name="MRSJCR" /> An elected executive and council administer the synagogue; its constitution provides for trustees to be elected at the annual general meeting, with vacancies also filled by the executive and council subject to subsequent AGM approval.<ref name="MRSReport2025" /> The 2025 accounts record continuing merger discussions with [[North Manchester Reform Congregation|Sha’arei Shalom]], not a completed merger.<ref name="MRSReport2025" />

== Charity, officers and accounts ==
=== Registered charities ===
[[Manchester Reform Congregation]], charity 1118957, was registered with the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] on 26 April 2007.<ref name="MRSOldGovernance">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4026511/governance?_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_organisationNumber=4026511 Manchester Reform Congregation: governance], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The register records its governing document as a constitution adopted on 9 December 1971, amended on 21 April 1998 and by a resolution dated 12 April 2026, with objects to advance the Jewish religion as oriented within the Reform and Progressive Jewish tradition, in particular by maintaining and operating a synagogue or synagogues and providing Jewish education.<ref name="MRSOldObjects">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4026511/governing-document?_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_organisationNumber=4026511 Manchester Reform Congregation: governing document], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 10 November 2026.</ref> Its register contact address is Suite 1B, First Floor, Carlton House, 16–18 Albert Square, [[Manchester]] M2 5PE.<ref name="MRSOldAddress">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4026511/contact-information?_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_organisationNumber=4026511 Manchester Reform Congregation: contact information], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> For the year ended 31 December 2025 the register records four employees, five volunteers and ten trustees, with no trustee payments.<ref name="MRSOldOverview">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4026511 Manchester Reform Congregation: charity overview], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 10 November 2026.</ref> The congregation’s 2025 report, whose financial statements are those of Manchester Reform Congregation, describes the synagogue’s office staff, rabbis, services and investments.<ref name="MRSReport2025" />

[[Manchester Reform Synagogue CIO]], charity 1205446, was registered on 27 October 2023. Its governing document is an association-model CIO constitution, with objects of advancing the Jewish religion by maintaining a synagogue or synagogues and providing Jewish education within the Reform and Progressive tradition.<ref name="MRSCIOGovernance">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5212614/governance Manchester Reform Synagogue CIO: governance], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MRSCIOObjects">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5212614/governing-document?_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_organisationNumber=5212614 Manchester Reform Synagogue CIO: governing document], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The CIO has the same register contact address as the congregation.<ref name="MRSCIOAddress">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5212614/contact-information Manchester Reform Synagogue CIO: contact information], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> [[Companies House]] lists the CIO as an externally registered body, reference CE034088, pointing to charity registration 1205446.<ref name="MRSCHCIO">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/CE034088 Manchester Reform Synagogue CIO (CE034088)], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

The CIO’s report for 2024, approved on 27 October 2025, records that it was dormant, lists [[Daniel Franks]] (chair), [[Eric Langer]] and [[Harold Weinstock]] as trustees, and says the trustees intended to complete a transfer of assets and membership from the existing congregation to the CIO within the next financial period and then to apply for closure of the existing entity.<ref name="MRSCIOReport2024">Manchester Reform Synagogue CIO, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A17773914&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=5212614 Trustees’ Annual Report and Accounts for the Year Ended 31 December 2024], ''Annual report and accounts'', approved 27 October 2025, pp. 1–4, accessed 10 November 2026.</ref> Its report for 2025, approved on 22 July 2026, says that the CIO has not commenced operations and held no bank account, cash, investments, other assets or liabilities at the year end.<ref name="MRSCIOReport2025">Manchester Reform Synagogue CIO, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A18999386&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=5212614 Trustees’ Annual Report and Annual Accounts for the financial year ended 31 December 2025], ''Annual report and accounts'', approved 22 July 2026, pp. 1–3, accessed 10 November 2026.</ref> The congregation’s own 2025 report describes the CIO (under the name “Manchester Reform Congregation CIO”) as dormant and says that a resolution at the annual general meeting of 12 April 2026 started the process of transferring to it, with no date fixed (p. 7).<ref name="MRSReport2025" /> At 10 November 2026 the register still showed the congregation filing accounts with income of £1,120,938 and the CIO filing nil returns.<ref name="MRSOldOverview" /><ref name="MRSCIOFinances">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5212614/financial-history Manchester Reform Synagogue CIO: financial history], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

The register also lists Eric Langer, [[David Leighton]] and Harold Weinstock as three of the four trustees of [[The Sustentation Fund]], charity 228038.<ref name="CCSustentationTrustees">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/228038/trustees The Sustentation Fund (228038): trustees], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 10 November 2026.</ref> The fund is constituted by a trust deed dated 29 June 1960, with objects to assist applicants in reduced circumstances and to provide financial assistance for educational or vocational training.<ref name="CCSustentationDoc">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/228038/governing-document The Sustentation Fund (228038): governing document], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 10 November 2026.</ref> It was registered on 21 February 1964, removed on 9 September 2009 as not operating, and registered again on 5 October 2009.<ref name="CCSustentationGov">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/228038/governance The Sustentation Fund (228038): governance], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 10 November 2026.</ref> Its register entry gives the same telephone number as the congregation’s.<ref name="CCSustentationContact">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/228038/contact-information The Sustentation Fund (228038): contact information], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 10 November 2026.</ref> The sources examined do not state the formal relationship between the fund and the congregation.

=== Officers and advisers ===
According to the congregation’s reports, an elected executive and council administer the synagogue and no trustee is paid.<ref name="MRSReport2025" /> The report for 2024 lists [[Daniel Franks]] as president and chairperson, Harold Weinstock as co-treasurer and custodian, Eric Langer as co-treasurer, and [[Daniel Savage]], [[Louis Rapaport (trustee, Manchester Reform Congregation)|Louis Rapaport]] and [[Mark Levy]] (until 21 June 2024) as custodians.<ref name="MRSReport2024">Manchester Reform Congregation, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A17767140&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=4026511 Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements for the financial year ended 31 December 2024], ''Annual report and accounts'', 28 October 2025, pp. 3–6, 11–13, 20, accessed 10 November 2026.</ref> The report for 2025 records that Franks resigned as president on 12 March 2026 and that Harold Weinstock, appointed by the council and executive to act as chairperson, was then appointed chair at the annual general meeting (p. 6).<ref name="MRSReport2025" /> The 2025 accounts were audited by Montague Kaye (report dated 21 October 2026), the 2024 accounts by the same firm, and the 2023 accounts by Chadwick & Company (Manchester) Limited (report dated 18 December 2024).<ref name="MRSReport2025" /><ref name="MRSReport2023">Manchester Reform Synagogue, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A16614079&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=4026511 Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2023], ''Annual report and accounts'', 17 December 2024, PDF pp. 2, 4–6, 8–13, 17, 20–24, accessed 10 November 2026.</ref> The 2025 report names Barclays and Investec as bankers and Rathbones Investment Managers as investment manager.<ref name="MRSReport2025" /> The register records the 2023 accounts as received on 13 February 2025, 105 days late.<ref name="MRSOldAccountsList">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4026511/accounts-and-annual-returns Manchester Reform Congregation: accounts and annual returns], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 10 November 2026.</ref>

=== Trustees of Manchester Reform Congregation ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Current trustees of charity 1118957
! Trustee !! Role !! Appointment recorded by the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] !! End of trusteeship !! Source
|-
| [[Martin Simons]] || Trustee || 1 June 2026 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSTrustees">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4026511/trustees Manchester Reform Congregation (1118957): trustees], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
|-
| [[David Lewis (trustee, Manchester Reform Congregation)|David Lewis]] || Trustee || 3 June 2025 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Anne Josephine Weinstock|Anne Weinstock]] || Trustee || 3 June 2025 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Peter Rapaport]] || Trustee || 18 April 2024 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Eric Langer]] || Trustee || 3 August 2023 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Elliot Cohen (trustee, Manchester Reform Congregation)|Elliot Cohen]] || Trustee || 27 June 2023 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[David Leighton]] || Trustee || 1 May 2022 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Janet Violet Langer|Janet Langer]] || Trustee || 1 May 2022 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Irene Gould]] || Trustee || 1 May 2022 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSTrustees" />
|-
| [[Harold Weinstock|Dr Harold Weinstock]] || Trustee || 25 April 2017 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSTrustees" />
|}

The annual report’s two trustee lists record the following former trustees. Where the report provides no appointment date, that is left unspecified. For Louis Rapaport, the list headed “Trustees and Other Information” (p. 3) gives “Resigned 31 December 2025”, while the later trustees list (p. 4) gives “Died 31 December 2025”; an obituary in [[The Jewish Chronicle]] gives his date of death as 31 December 2025.<ref name="MRSReport2025" /><ref name="JCRapaport2026">[[The Jewish Chronicle]], [https://www.thejc.com/news/obituaries/obituary-louis-rapaport-ff98y4ib Obituary: Louis Rapaport], ''The Jewish Chronicle'', 18 February 2026, accessed 10 November 2026.</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Former trustees named in the 2025 annual report
! Trustee !! Appointment !! End of trusteeship !! Reason recorded !! Source
|-
| [[Daniel Franks]] || Not stated || 12 March 2026 || Resigned || <ref name="MRSReport2025" />
|-
| [[Daniel Savage]] || Not stated || 29 July 2026 || Resigned || <ref name="MRSReport2025" />
|-
| [[Louis Rapaport (trustee, Manchester Reform Congregation)|Louis Rapaport]] || Not stated || 31 December 2025 || “Resigned” (p. 3); “Died” (p. 4) || <ref name="MRSReport2025" /><ref name="JCRapaport2026" />
|-
| [[Darren Vaile]] || Not stated || 26 December 2025 || Resigned || <ref name="MRSReport2025" />
|-
| [[Jack Morris]] || Not stated || 6 April 2025 || Resigned || <ref name="MRSReport2025" />
|-
| [[Leona Vaile]] || Not stated || 6 April 2025 || Resigned || <ref name="MRSReport2025" />
|-
| [[Martin Nelson]] || Not stated || 9 June 2025 || Resigned || <ref name="MRSReport2025" />
|}
The live register gives Martin Simons’s appointment as 1 June 2026; the annual report lists “Martin Simon” with an appointment date of 12 May 2026.<ref name="MRSTrustees" /><ref name="MRSReport2025" />

=== Trustees of Manchester Reform Synagogue CIO ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Current trustees of charity 1205446
! Trustee !! Role !! Appointment recorded by the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] !! End of trusteeship !! Source
|-
| [[Peter Rapaport]] || Trustee || 23 July 2026 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSCIOTrustees">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5212614/trustees Manchester Reform Synagogue CIO (1205446): trustees], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
|-
| [[Elliot Cohen (trustee, Manchester Reform Congregation)|Elliot Cohen]] || Trustee || 23 July 2026 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSCIOTrustees" />
|-
| [[Martin Simons]] || Trustee || 23 July 2026 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSCIOTrustees" />
|-
| [[Janet Violet Langer]] || Trustee || 23 July 2026 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSCIOTrustees" />
|-
| [[Anne Josephine Weinstock]] || Trustee || 23 July 2026 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSCIOTrustees" />
|-
| [[David Leighton]] || Trustee || 23 July 2026 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSCIOTrustees" />
|-
| [[David Lewis (trustee, Manchester Reform Congregation)|David Lewis]] || Trustee || 23 July 2026 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSCIOTrustees" />
|-
| [[Eric Langer]] || Trustee || 17 October 2023 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSCIOTrustees" />
|-
| [[Harold Weinstock|Dr Harold Weinstock]] || Trustee || 17 October 2023 || Listed as current on 6 November 2026 || <ref name="MRSCIOTrustees" />
|}

=== Accounts ===
The congregation and the CIO file separately; the CIO’s nil returns do not describe the operating congregation’s finances.<ref name="MRSReport2025" /><ref name="MRSCIOFinances" /> Figures below are those of the primary financial statements in each filing (statement of financial activities and balance sheet), with page numbers given in the text.

{| class="wikitable"
|+ [[Manchester Reform Congregation]] (1118957): income, expenditure and funds, 2021–2025 (£)
! Year ended 31 December !! Income !! Expenditure !! Net movement in funds !! Total funds at year end !! Source
|-
| 2021 || 470,856 || 334,227 || 136,629 || 358,214 || <ref name="MRSReport2021">Manchester Reform Synagogue, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A12253051&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=4026511 Annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2021], ''Annual report and accounts'', PDF pp. 12–13, accessed 10 November 2026.</ref>
|-
| 2022 || 452,872 || 382,837 || 70,035 || 428,249 || <ref name="MRSReport2022">Manchester Reform Synagogue, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A14271383&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=4026511 Annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2022], ''Annual report and accounts'', PDF pp. 12–13, accessed 10 November 2026.</ref>
|-
| 2023 || 15,526,820 || 412,029 || 15,114,791 || 15,543,040 || <ref name="MRSReport2023" />
|-
| 2024 || 1,001,331 || 380,292 || 621,039 || 16,164,079 || <ref name="MRSReport2024" />
|-
| 2025 || 1,120,938 || 419,205 || 701,733 || 16,865,812 || <ref name="MRSReport2025" />
|}
The 2024 report gives the 2023 comparatives as income of £15,526,803 and expenditure of £412,012, each £17 lower than in the 2023 filing.<ref name="MRSReport2024" /> The 2023 rise in income and funds followed the sale of the Jackson’s Row premises: the 2023 accounts record exchange of contracts on 5 July 2023 and completion on 23 August 2023, disposal proceeds of £15,005,922 and a net gain on disposal of £14,987,945 shown as other income (PDF pp. 5, 11, 13, 17).<ref name="MRSReport2023" /> [[JCR-UK]] records that a general meeting on 25 July 2021 approved a sale for £15 million.<ref name="MRSJCR" />

For 31 December 2025 the balance sheet (p. 14) shows fixed-asset investments of £12,305,420, current assets of £4,666,977 (stocks £66,258, debtors £117,915 and cash £4,482,804) and creditors due within one year of £106,585, giving net current assets of £4,560,392 and total funds of £16,865,812, of which £73,081 is restricted, £114,481 designated and £16,678,250 the general fund. Income comprised donations and legacies of £137,847 (including membership fees of £102,159; note 3.1, p. 18), charitable-activity income of £74,853 (including funeral receipts of £69,743; note 3.2, p. 18) and investment income of £908,238 (bank interest £429,678 and investment income £478,560; note 7, p. 19). The trustees’ report says that the funds are invested 60 per cent in gilts and bonds, 13 per cent in shares and 27 per cent in bank deposits, including fixed-rate deposits (p. 7). The auditor, Montague Kaye, gives an opinion that the financial statements give a true and fair view (pp. 10–12).<ref name="MRSReport2025" /> The Charity Commission register summary gives income of £1,120,938 and expenditure of £419,205 for the year.<ref name="MRSOldOverview" />

Some figures in the 2025 filing differ from one another, as follows.

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Figures that differ within the 2025 filing of Manchester Reform Congregation (£)
! Item !! Statement of financial activities, balance sheet or note !! Figure !! Other part of the filing !! Figure
|-
| Total income, 2025 || Statement of financial activities (p. 13) || 1,120,938 || Note 16.2, analysis of movements on funds (p. 21) || 1,122,782
|-
| Total expenditure, 2025 || Statement of financial activities (p. 13) || 419,205 || Note 16.2 (p. 21) || 421,049
|-
| Surplus for the year, 2025 || Statement of financial activities (p. 13); trustees’ report (p. 7) || 701,733 || Trustees’ report, financial review (p. 6) || 707,136
|-
| Net current assets, 31 December 2025 || Balance sheet (p. 14) || 4,560,392 || Trustees’ report, reserves (p. 7) || 16,871,215
|}
Both note 16.2 totals exceed the statement of financial activities by £1,844, so the net movement shown by note 16.2 is also £701,733. The equivalent note in the 2024 filing (note 14.2, p. 20) likewise gives income of £1,001,491 and expenditure of £380,452, against £1,001,331 and £380,292 in that year’s statement of financial activities (p. 11).<ref name="MRSReport2024" /> The trustees’ reports for 2023 and 2024 also give “net current assets” of £15,543,040 and £16,164,079, which are the total funds in those years’ balance sheets; the balance sheets give net current assets of £15,506,040 (2023) and £7,460,486 (2024).<ref name="MRSReport2023" /><ref name="MRSReport2024" /> The figure of £16,871,215 in the 2025 trustees’ report is £5,403 above the balance sheet’s total funds, the same amount by which that report’s £707,136 surplus exceeds £701,733.<ref name="MRSReport2025" />

{| class="wikitable"
|+ [[Manchester Reform Synagogue CIO]] (1205446): separate returns (£)
! Year ended 31 December !! Income !! Expenditure !! Source
|-
| 2024 || 0 || 0 || <ref name="MRSCIOFinances" />
|-
| 2025 || 0 || 0 || <ref name="MRSCIOFinances" />
|}

== Relations with Israel ==
The congregation’s own history leaflet describes its Hebrew name, Sha’ar Zion (“The gates of Zion”), and states that its connection to Israel and its communities is “deep and long lasting”.<ref name="MRSLeaflet">Manchester Reform Synagogue, [https://jacksonsrow.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MRS-details.pdf Manchester Reform Synagogue: history and community], ''Manchester Reform Synagogue'', 2025, p. 1, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> Its links page includes the [[Britain Israel Communications and Research Centre]] and the [[Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism]].<ref name="MRSLinks">Manchester Reform Synagogue, [https://www.jacksonsrow.org/links/ Links], ''Manchester Reform Synagogue'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

For its 2026/5787 Kol Nidrei appeal, chair [[Harold Weinstock]] asked members to support [[Progressive Jewish Students]], [[Federation of Jewish Services|The Fed]] and [[Leket Israel]]. The appeal describes Leket’s food-rescue and distribution work; it does not give a total raised by the congregation.<ref name="MRSAppeal2026">Harold Weinstock, [https://www.jacksonsrow.org/kol-nidrei-appeal-2021/ Kol Nidrei Appeal 2026 / 5787], ''Manchester Reform Synagogue'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

On 8 August 2026 the synagogue published a statement mourning the loss of life and displacement of innocent people throughout the Holy Land and calling for peace and reconciliation.<ref name="MRSHumanity">Manchester Reform Synagogue, [https://www.jacksonsrow.org/2026/08/08/we-stand-united-with-humanity/ We stand united with Humanity], ''Manchester Reform Synagogue'', 8 August 2026, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> On 1 September 2026 it publicised [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]] co-leads [[Charley Baginsky]] and [[Josh Levy]]’s commentary on Israeli settlement policies, under the heading “A time for moral clarity on Israeli settlements”.<ref name="MRSSettlements">Manchester Reform Synagogue, [https://www.jacksonsrow.org/2026/09/01/movement-for-reform-judaism-statement-a-time-for-moral-clarity-on-israeli-settlements/ Movement for Reform Judaism statement: A time for moral clarity on Israeli settlements], ''Manchester Reform Synagogue'', 1 September 2026, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

Earlier website announcements preserved by the [[Internet Archive]] include a 2019 course at [[Cheshire Reform Congregation|Menorah Synagogue]] led by [[Clive Gilbert]], examining Israeli and Palestinian accounts of the conflict, and a 2024 discussion series on Israel and the diaspora.<ref name="MRSArchive2019">Manchester Reform Synagogue, [https://web.archive.org/web/20190922144313id_/https://www.jacksonsrow.org/2019/08/29/israel-and-palestine-land-and-people-nation-and-state/ Israel and Palestine: Land and People, Nation and State], ''Manchester Reform Synagogue'', 29 August 2019; Wayback capture, 22 September 2019, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MRSArchive2024">Manchester Reform Synagogue, [https://web.archive.org/web/20240910043646id_/https://www.jacksonsrow.org/2024/09/01/israel-and-the-diaspora/ Israel and the Diaspora], ''Manchester Reform Synagogue'', 1 September 2024; Wayback capture, 10 September 2024, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The 2024 archived page displayed an Israeli-flag thumbnail. Both original announcement URLs displayed “Page not found” when checked on 6 November 2026; the archived copies do not establish why the URLs ceased to work.<ref name="MRSOldURL2019">Manchester Reform Synagogue, [https://www.jacksonsrow.org/2019/08/29/israel-and-palestine-land-and-people-nation-and-state/ Former Israel and Palestine announcement URL: Page not found], ''Manchester Reform Synagogue'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MRSOldURL2024">Manchester Reform Synagogue, [https://www.jacksonsrow.org/2024/09/01/israel-and-the-diaspora/ Former Israel and the Diaspora announcement URL: Page not found], ''Manchester Reform Synagogue'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== See also ==
* [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]]
* [[The Movement for Reform Judaism]]
* [[Synagogues in the United Kingdom]]
* [[Cheshire Reform Congregation]]
* [[North Manchester Reform Congregation]]

== External links ==
* [https://www.facebook.com/ManchesterReformSynagogue/ Official Facebook page]

== Notes ==
<references/>

[[Category:Charities in England and Wales]]
[[Category:Jewish charities in the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Manchester]]

Manchester Reform Synagogue

2026-11-10T15:06:04Z

Synagogue research: New page: Manchester Reform Synagogue (part 1 of 2: history, governance, trustees)

The Movement for Reform Judaism

2026-11-10T13:21:50Z

Synagogue research: Added sourced Israel/Zionism history 1942–1995 from Kershen & Romain, Tradition and Change (1995)

{{short description|'''British Reform Jewish movement whose operational activities transferred to Progressive Judaism in 2026'''}}
{{Infobox organization
| name = The Movement for Reform Judaism
| logo = [[File:Movement for Reform Judaism logo from 2025 report.png|200px]]
| type = Jewish religious movement; continuing registered charity and company limited by guarantee
| founded = {{Start date|1942}}
| registration_id = 1139806 ([[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]]); company 07431950
| status = Operational activities transferred to [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]] on 1 January 2026; charitable company continues
| headquarters = The [[Sternberg Centre for Judaism]], 80 East End Road, Finchley, London N3 2SY
| registration = England and Wales
| key_people = [[Edward Kessler (trustee, The Movement for Reform Judaism)|Dr Edward Kessler]]; [[Michele Ruth Saffer]]; [[Melvin Pedro]] (trustees listed on 6 November 2026)
| website = https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk
}}
'''The Movement for Reform Judaism''' (MRJ), also known as '''Reform Judaism''', is a British Reform Jewish movement whose operational activities transferred to [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]] (MPJ) on 1 January 2026. Its trustees’ report states that the original registered charity continues to exist to receive residual legacies and donations, rather than having been dissolved by the operational transfer.<ref name="MRJAccounts2025">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07431950/filing-history/MzU0MDI4OTMwNGFkaXF6a2N4/document?format=pdf&download=0 Trustees’ annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2025], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', 22 July 2026, pp. 1–5, 7–11, 16–18, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> [[Companies House]] continued to list company 07431950 as active on 6 November 2026, and the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] continued to list charity 1139806 and its trustees.<ref name="MRJCompany">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07431950 The Movement for Reform Judaism (07431950): overview], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MRJGovernance">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5015263/governance The Movement for Reform Judaism: governance], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MRJTrustees">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5015263/trustees The Movement for Reform Judaism: trustees], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

MRJ and [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Liberal Judaism]] voted to unite on 18 May 2025. That announcement distinguished the vote from the further work of legally forming the new movement; the subsequent MRJ report dates its operational transfer to 1 January 2026.<ref name="Vote2025">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/history-made-as-progressive-judaism-forms/ History made as Progressive Judaism forms], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', 18 May 2025, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MRJAccounts2025" /> MRJ’s preserved explanatory website describes its historical membership of the [[World Union for Progressive Judaism]] and the [[European Union for Progressive Judaism]], and its educational, communal and youth work.<ref name="MRJAbout">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/about/ What was MRJ?], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== History ==
MRJ’s own historical account traces British Reform Judaism to 1840 and the national association of Reform communities to 1942. The association subsequently became known as The Movement for Reform Judaism.<ref name="MRJAbout" /> The charitable company was incorporated on 8 November 2010 and registered as charity 1139806 on 12 January 2011. The charity register records funds received from predecessor charity 250060 on 22 May 2012.<ref name="MRJCompany" /><ref name="MRJGovernance" />

=== Provincial origins, 1856–1898 ===
[[Anne J. Kershen|Kershen]] and [[Jonathan A. Romain|Romain]]’s 1995 history traces provincial Reform Judaism to [[Manchester Reform Synagogue|Manchester]], where a Reform Association was established on 17 February 1856. Its resolutions called for the adoption of the Margaret Street (West London) prayer book, liturgy and ritual and the introduction of a choir, and for the Association to combine with the general body of Manchester Jewry. According to Kershen and Romain, the Orthodox Halliwell Street committee and Chief Rabbi [[Nathan Marcus Adler|Nathan Adler]] would make only minor concessions, while the Reformers offered a single concession: retention of the Second Day of festivals.<ref name="KR1995p63">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 63.</ref>

The foundation stone of what was first designated the Park Place Synagogue of British Jews of Manchester was laid in March 1857 at a ceremony attended by Manchester Reformers and representatives of [[The West London Synagogue of British Jews|West London Synagogue]].<ref name="KR1995p64">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 64.</ref> Dr [[Solomon Marcus Schiller-Szinessy|Solomon Schiller-Szinessy]], who had arrived in Manchester in 1850, was the sole applicant for the Reformers’ post; Kershen and Romain say that his request to be designated ‘Chief Rabbi’ was refused but that he took the post.<ref name="KR1995p62">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 62.</ref><ref name="KR1995p64" /> The consecration took place on 25 March 1858. The building, designed by [[Edward Salomons]], followed the Margaret Street ritual but introduced an organ and a mixed choir of forty.<ref name="KR1995p65">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 65.</ref><ref name="KR1995p66">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 66.</ref> Kershen and Romain say that the difference over the Second Day, which Schiller-Szinessy defended as an ancient institution rather than a Mosaic ordinance, meant that Park Place did not become a ‘branch’ of West London and remained an autonomous associate, setting a pattern for later Reform congregations.<ref name="KR1995p65" /> In 1860 those in favour of abolishing the Second Day prevailed, and Schiller-Szinessy resigned in protest.<ref name="KR1995p67">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 67.</ref>

[[Gustav Gottheil]], formerly third minister to the Berlin Reform community, became Manchester’s second Reform minister; after thirteen years he left in September 1873 to become minister of the Emanu-El Synagogue in New York.<ref name="KR1995p68">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 68.</ref><ref name="KR1995p69">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 69.</ref> [[Laurence Mark Simmons]], described as the first English-born minister of the Manchester Reform congregation, was trained at Breslau with support from West London’s ministers’ training fund. His ministry ended with his early death in 1900, and Kershen and Romain put the congregation’s membership at 500 by the end of the century.<ref name="KR1995p70">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 70.</ref>

In [[Bradford Synagogue|Bradford]], the Jewish Association of Bradford was founded after a meeting convened by Charles Semon and Charles Calman on 1 April 1873. [[Joseph Strauss]] of Germany was appointed its director in November 1873 and served the community until 1922.<ref name="KR1995p73">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 73.</ref><ref name="KR1995p77">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 77.</ref> Kershen and Romain write that the community first used the Hamburg Temple prayer book and that in 1878 pragmatism demanded a change to the ritual and liturgy of West London. They report that West London’s council had initially refused association on the ground that the ‘advanced views’ of the majority of the Bradford community were an impediment, and that West London was then reluctant to draw up rules for formal association until a sub-committee was set up after pressure from Bradford and an emerging Leeds community.<ref name="KR1995p75">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 75.</ref> They date the foundation-stone ceremony at Bowland Street to 1880 and the consecration to 29 March 1881, and describe Bradford as unique among nineteenth-century British Jewish communities in establishing a Reform synagogue before an Orthodox house of worship.<ref name="KR1995p75" /><ref name="KR1995p76">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 76.</ref> In 1880 Strauss applied to West London for the post of assistant minister; Kershen and Romain report that he was turned down because of the manner in which he delivered his sermons, quoting [[David Woolf Marks]]’s report that his reading ‘grates horribly on the ear’.<ref name="KR1995p74">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 74.</ref>

Kershen and Romain also record unsuccessful attempts to found Reform congregations elsewhere. In 1867 [[Philip Magnus]] suggested that West London authorise a minister to conduct weekly services in hired rooms at Brighton for part of the year; the surviving record notes only that the request was ‘not acceded to’, dated 6 December 1867.<ref name="KR1995p81">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 81.</ref><ref name="KR1995p82">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 82.</ref> In Leeds, Joseph Guttman Oppenheim wrote to West London’s council in June 1880 seeking to establish a synagogue following West London ritual, and announced in August 1880 the acquisition of a former Christian chapel; the correspondence then ceased, and the minute book of Belgrave Street synagogue indicates that the matter with Oppenheim and another seceder was settled by October 1880. A second group led by S. Tannenberg wrote from the ‘New Hebrew Congregation’ on 1 January 1881. Kershen and Romain conclude that Reform lay dormant in Leeds until a congregation was established in 1944.<ref name="KR1995p83">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 83.</ref><ref name="KR1995p84">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 84.</ref><ref name="KR1995p85">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 85.</ref> In 1874 residents of Clapham, Brixton and neighbouring areas wrote to West London in the name of a ‘South London Synagogue of British Jews’; membership stayed below the twenty required for association, the planned consecration and association did not take place, and in 1877 West London refused a request for £100 a year for three years.<ref name="KR1995p86">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 86.</ref><ref name="KR1995p87">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 87.</ref> They summarise that by the end of the nineteenth century only three Reform congregations existed in Britain: West London, Manchester and Bradford.<ref name="KR1995p88">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 88.</ref>

In a letter to the ''Jewish Chronicle'' in 1893, Strauss held West London responsible for a ‘lack of brotherly connection’ with the provinces.<ref name="KR1995p79">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 79.</ref><ref name="KR1995p80">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 80.</ref> On 8 January 1898 [[Morris Joseph]], minister of West London since 1893, presented a paper to the West London Synagogue Association proposing closer links between the three Reform synagogues. The meeting in London was attended by Strauss and two other Bradford representatives but by no one from Manchester. Joseph then asked the two provincial congregations to approve a non-financial ‘federation’, with periodic conferences held alternately in London, Manchester and Bradford, consultative only, each congregation retaining its independence in ritual.<ref name="KR1995p80" /> The West London Association’s annual report recorded an ‘extremely favourable’ reply from Bradford and an ‘extremely unfavourable’ reply from Manchester, whose lay council said that the synagogue’s community and civic position was of far more importance than the proposed federation.<ref name="KR1995p80" /><ref name="KR1995p81" /> Kershen and Romain write that the plan was abandoned and not reconsidered until 1942, when the resolution to establish the Associated British Synagogues was passed at a meeting held in Manchester.<ref name="KR1995p81" />

=== National association, 1942–1994 ===
The national association was established in 1942 as Associated British Synagogues. It joined the [[World Union for Progressive Judaism]] in 1945 and became the Association of Synagogues in Great Britain in 1946.<ref name="KR1995p360">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 360.</ref>

The [[Reform Beth Din]] was established in 1948, and the association established [[Leo Baeck College]] in 1956. The [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Union of Liberal and Progressive Synagogues]] became a co-sponsor of the college in 1964.<ref name="KR1995p360361">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, pp. 360–361.</ref>

In 1958 the association adopted the name Reform Synagogues of Great Britain, then comprising 18 synagogues. The [[Council of Reform and Liberal Rabbis]] was established in 1968.<ref name="KR1995p360361" />

The [[Youth Association of Synagogues in Great Britain]] was established in 1946, became Reform Synagogue Youth in 1979 and adopted the name [[RSY-Netzer]] in 1982. The [[Assembly of Ministers]], established in 1947, became the [[Assembly of Rabbis]] in 1976.<ref name="KR1995p360" />

[[Anne J. Kershen|Kershen]] and [[Jonathan A. Romain|Romain]]'s chronology records [[Raymond Goldman]]'s appointment as general secretary in 1966, his change of role to executive director in 1979, and [[Tony Bayfield]]'s appointment as chief executive in 1994.<ref name="KR1995p361">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 361.</ref>

Kershen and Romain write that by 1957 the influence of the German refugee rabbis was beginning to wane, noting among those who had died in the preceding years [[Caesar Seligmann]] (1950), [[Herman Schreiber]] (1954), [[Bruno Italiener]] (1956), [[Ernest Sawady]] (1956), [[Max Katten]] (1957) and [[Gustav Pfingst]] (1957). [[Leo Baeck]] died on 2 November 1956; they describe him as President of the Reform movement, who worshipped mainly at North Western and at West London.<ref name="KR1995p216">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 216.</ref>

On relations with Liberal Judaism, Kershen and Romain record that in May 1962 the Reform Synagogues of Great Britain (RSGB) joined the social issues committee of the [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Union of Liberal and Progressive Synagogues]] (ULPS) as a joint venture, and that a Joint Chaplaincy Commission to serve Progressive Jewish students at universities was established in 1963.<ref name="KR1995p271">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 271.</ref>

=== Religious change, 1980–1995 ===
Kershen and Romain describe gradual changes in the religious direction of the RSGB during the 1980s: many congregations reintroduced Second Day Rosh Hashanah services, the role of women in services became more active, and specific ceremonies for female life-cycle events were developed. They write that some communities still opposed employing a female rabbi, on habit rather than ideology, and that none of those that appointed women rabbis found that fears of communal splits or loss of membership materialised. A collection of essays by women rabbis, ''Hear Our Voice'', was published in 1994.<ref name="KR1995p336">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 336.</ref>

=== Alliance for Progressive Judaism ===
On 17 September 2014 [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Liberal Judaism]] and MRJ announced the [[Alliance for Progressive Judaism]], expanding collaboration in student chaplaincy, social justice and social action. The announcement explicitly stated that this was not a merger: the movements would retain their autonomy and distinct identities, and congregations would remain members of their respective movements.<ref name="Alliance2014">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/liberal-and-reform-together-launch-alliance-for-progressive-judaism/ Liberal and Reform together launch alliance for Progressive Judaism], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', 17 September 2014, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

=== Movement for Progressive Judaism ===
[[JCR-UK]] dates the announcement of an intention to unite to April 2023. The movements held parallel extraordinary general meetings on 18 May 2025 and voted for unification.<ref name="MPJJCR">JCR-UK, [https://jewishgen.org/jcr-uk/Affiliations/Progressive.htm Movement for Progressive Judaism], ''JewishGen'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="Vote2025" /> The May announcement described further legal formation work as still to come; MPJ’s later account says that votes in favour exceeded 95% at each meeting.<ref name="Vote2025" /><ref name="MPJAbout">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/what-is-the-movement-for-progressive-judaism/ What is The Movement for Progressive Judaism?], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> JCR-UK records incorporation of the new [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]] company, 16501951, on 6 June 2025 and registration of its separate charity, 1214734, on 29 August 2025.<ref name="MPJJCR" />

The MRJ trustees’ report, approved on 22 July 2026, states that its operational activities transferred to MPJ on 1 January 2026, with those operations continuing in substance within MPJ. It also states that the MRJ charity would remain in existence to receive residual legacies and donations.<ref name="MRJAccounts2025" /> MPJ’s January 2026 privacy policy identifies the new company and charity and refers to integration work continuing during 2026.<ref name="MPJPrivacy">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/MPJ-Privacy-Policy-2026_v1.1.pdf MPJ Privacy Policy 2026], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', January 2026, p. 1, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> These are distinct organisational and legal entities; the operational union does not mean that the MRJ charity ceased to exist.<ref name="MRJAccounts2025" /><ref name="MRJCompany" />

The May 2025 announcement named Rabbi [[Josh Levy]] as MRJ chief executive and Rabbi [[Charley Baginsky]] as [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Liberal Judaism]] chief executive. In a joint statement dated 1 September 2026 they signed as the co-leads of MPJ, rather than as chief executives of two continuing operational movements.<ref name="Vote2025" /><ref name="MPJLeads2026">Josh Levy and Charley Baginsky, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/statement-on-the-possibility-of-uk-action-on-settlement-expansion/ Statement on the possibility of UK action on settlement expansion], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', 1 September 2026, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== Governance and charitable status ==
The [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] describes MRJ as a charitable company, number 1139806, linked to company 07431950.<ref name="MRJGovernance" /> Companies House describes it as a private company limited by guarantee without share capital, with an exemption from using “Limited” in its name.<ref name="MRJCompany" /> Its governing-document summary dates the memorandum and articles to 31 October 2010 and lists subsequent amendments, most recently on 1 January 2026; [[Companies House]] separately records incorporation on 8 November 2010.<ref name="MRJObjects">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5015263/governing-document The Movement for Reform Judaism: governing document], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MRJCompany" /> The registered objects are to promote and foster Judaism and any charitable purpose calculated to further the welfare of Jewish people in the UK, Israel or elsewhere in the world.<ref name="MRJObjects" />

The 2025 report says that the charity’s affairs were governed by its memorandum and articles and that an EGM on 18 May 2025 allowed current board members reaching the end of their terms to remain on the board for an extended period, to provide continuity during the transfer to [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]].<ref name="MRJAccounts2025" />

== People ==
=== Continuing MRJ charity trustees ===
The following are the three trustees listed by the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] on 6 November 2026; these legal-charity roles are separate from [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]]’s operational leadership.<ref name="MRJTrustees" /><ref name="MPJLeads2026" />
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Trustees of charity 1139806
! Name as recorded !! Appointment recorded !! Status at 6 November 2026 !! Source
|-
| [[Edward Kessler (trustee, The Movement for Reform Judaism)|Dr Edward Kessler]] || 1 January 2026 || Current trustee || <ref name="MRJTrustees" />
|-
| [[Michele Ruth Saffer]] || 19 November 2020 || Current trustee || <ref name="MRJTrustees" />
|-
| [[Melvin Pedro]] || 28 June 2020 || Current trustee || <ref name="MRJTrustees" />
|}

=== Continuing company directors ===
[[Companies House]] lists the following active directors of company 07431950. These are company-office dates.<ref name="MRJOfficers">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07431950/officers The Movement for Reform Judaism (07431950): officers], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Active company directors, checked 6 November 2026
! Name as recorded !! Appointment !! Resignation !! Source
|-
| [[Edward David Kessler]] || 1 January 2026 || Not recorded; active || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Melvin Pedro]] || 28 June 2020 || Not recorded; active || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Michele Ruth Saffer]] || 19 November 2020 || Not recorded; active || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|}

=== Selected former company directors ===
The following is a non-exhaustive selection of former directors, with names and dates as recorded by [[Companies House]].<ref name="MRJOfficers" />
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Selected former directors of company 07431950
! Name as recorded !! Appointment !! Resignation !! Source
|-
| [[Daniel Robert Benjamin]] || 28 June 2020 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Peter David Fraser]] || 24 June 2018 || 25 June 2023 || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Kathryn Anne Hirst]] || 30 June 2019 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Roberto Aron Lampl]] || 19 November 2020 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Ian Michael Lancaster]] || 30 June 2019 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Paul Anthony Langsford]] || 26 June 2016 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|}

=== Historical leadership: November 2021 ===
The following tables reproduce the leadership categories and names shown in the website capture of 28 November 2021. They are historical listings, not a statement that those positions continued after the operational transfer.<ref name="Leadership2021">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://web.archive.org/web/20211128062803id_/https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/leadership/ Leadership], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', Wayback capture, 28 November 2021, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Chairs in the November 2021 website capture
! Person !! Role shown !! Source
|-
| [[James Baaden|Rabbi James Baaden]] || Co-chair of the [[Assembly of Reform Rabbis and Cantors]] || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Kathleen Middleton|Rabbi Kathleen Middleton]] || Co-chair of the Assembly of Reform Rabbis and Cantors || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Michael Harris]] || Listed under Chairs || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Paul Langsford]] || Listed under Chairs || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Board members in the November 2021 website capture
! Person !! Role shown !! Source
|-
| [[Daniel Benjamin (trustee, The Movement for Reform Judaism)|Daniel Benjamin]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Daniel Mackintosh]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Ian Lancaster]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Joey Leskin]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Kathy Hirst]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Melvin Pedro]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Michael Harris]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Michele Saffer]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Paul Langsford]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Peter Fraser (trustee, The Movement for Reform Judaism)|Peter Fraser]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Roberto Lampl]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Roy Saatchi]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Senior management team in the November 2021 website capture
! Person !! Role shown !! Source
|-
| [[Debbie Doobay]] || Chief operating officer || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Amit Handelsman]] || Director of community partnership || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Sarita Robinson]] || Director of community partnership || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Jackie Tabick|Rabbi Dr Jackie Tabick]] || Beit Din convenor || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Sharon Daniels]] || Head of safeguarding and wellbeing || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Gilly Shulman]] || Director of HR || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|}

== Accounts ==
The table gives the MRJ charity’s results for periods before the operational transfer; it is not a statement of [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]]’s separate finances.<ref name="MRJAccounts2025" />
{| class="wikitable"
|+ MRJ charity 1139806: annual accounts (£)
! Year ended 31 December !! Income !! Expenditure !! Net assets / funds !! Source
|-
| 2024 || 2,628,742 || 2,482,731 || 2,099,992 || <ref name="MRJAccounts2025" />
|-
| 2025 || 3,123,094 || 2,934,164 || 2,288,922 || <ref name="MRJAccounts2025" />
|}
The 2025 report acknowledges grants from organisations including [[United Jewish Israel Appeal|UJIA]] and [[Netzer Olami|Netzer Olami (Tamar)]]. Its acknowledgements page does not give the amounts of those individual grants.<ref name="MRJAccounts2025" />

== Relationship with Israel ==
MRJ’s Israel page, preserved in a 26 October 2021 capture and still accessible in the movement’s retained website text on 6 November 2026, states its organisational position as follows:<ref name="MRJIsrael2021">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://web.archive.org/web/20211026021459id_/https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/israel/ Israel], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', Wayback capture, 26 October 2021, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MRJIsrael">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/israel/ Israel], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
<blockquote>We are unequivocally Zionist. We have a non-negotiable commitment to the State of Israel and its security. We believe that the pursuit of peace is the highest ideal and priority. We are deeply committed to democracy; human rights and social justice; and religious pluralism.

We are committed to two viable states as the only just and realistic solution to the present situation.

We believe that Israel should be a Jewish state and a state for all its citizens.

We believe that exponents of moderate, liberal Judaism should ally with moderate, liberal secularists and work together to combat both religious and secular extremism.</blockquote>
The page also states that the movement supports organisations building bridges between Israeli Jews and Arabs, and between Israeli Jews and Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza.<ref name="MRJIsrael2021" /><ref name="MRJIsrael" />

=== Zionism and the national association, 1942–1957 ===
According to [[Anne J. Kershen|Kershen]] and [[Jonathan A. Romain|Romain]], Zionism divided opinion within the Association of Synagogues in Great Britain (ASGB). Some welcomed Jewish nationalism as the fulfilment of an ancient dream or as a practical answer to antisemitism, particularly after the rise of the Nazis; others feared that it would call into question Jews’ loyalty to their countries or objected that it degraded Judaism into nationalism. [[The West London Synagogue of British Jews|West London Synagogue]] was less sympathetic than some of the newer congregations.<ref name="KR1995p212">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 212.</ref> Reinhart, whom Kershen and Romain present as epitomising that position, considered that the universal spirit of Judaism was being hijacked by political exigencies. They report that prayers hinting at favour for a Jewish homeland were omitted from the service and that attempts to find a haven in Palestine for German Jews were resisted. Reinhart wrote that Jews are not a nation but a worldwide community of believers who are not seekers of a ‘national home’.<ref name="KR1995p212" /> He and many others supported the foundation of the [[Jewish Fellowship]] at West London by [[Basil Henriques]] in November 1944, designed as an organ for Jews for whom Judaism did not centre in Palestine.<ref name="KR1995p212" /><ref name="KR1995p213">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 213.</ref>

Under Reinhart’s editorship, they write, the ''Synagogue Review'' largely ignored developments connected with Zionism: the establishment of the State of Israel in May or June 1948 was not mentioned, and Zionism usually featured as an occasion for condemnation. After the 1949 peace terms it denounced Israel’s responsibility for the suffering of Palestinians.<ref name="KR1995p213" /> Other members of the ‘establishment’ took a different view: [[Robert Henriques]] said that he had been against a Jewish state until it was created, and later flew to Israel to lend his military expertise during the Sinai campaign. Among the rabbinate, [[Maurice Perlzweig]] (then at North Western) and Baron (at Glasgow) took a positive view, and [[Charles Berg]] gave a religious defence of the new State.<ref name="KR1995p213" /> At the ASGB’s fourth conference in 1945, following a ''Synagogue Review'' article critical of Zionism, the chairman, [[Edward Henriques]], said that the Association would pursue its work without contentious discussion on Zionist matters; Kershen and Romain say that this remained the policy for many years.<ref name="KR1995p213" /><ref name="KR1995p214">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 214.</ref>

The controversy extended to services. Reinhart led opposition to a prayer for the State of Israel and campaigned against the use of the Star of David on synagogue buildings.<ref name="KR1995p214" /> In 1951 the ASGB conference voted by 41 to 26 to add a prayer for the State, despite warnings that it would lead to charges of dual loyalty; a special sub-committee composed a prayer for congregations that wished to use it. The question arose again over the 1954 Festival Prayer Book, whose draft omitted the prayer: [[Manchester Reform Synagogue|Manchester]] and North Western led a campaign for its inclusion, the executive was evenly split, and the matter was referred to the [[Assembly of Ministers]]. The outcome was a prayer for the ‘Land of Israel’ which prayed for Jews living in Israel but did not pray for a sovereign State.<ref name="KR1995p214" /><ref name="KR1995p215">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 215.</ref> Kershen and Romain also record a majority decision to invite the Ambassador of Israel to an ASGB dinner marking the tercentenary of Anglo-Jewry.<ref name="KR1995p215" />

Kershen and Romain write that the dispute over marriage secretaries was only one of the reasons for the movement’s withdrawal from the [[Board of Deputies of British Jews]] and that Zionism was another and more important factor. The Board had earlier agreed that the ASGB’s voice should be heard at the highest communal level, and [[Sidney Kingsley]] had been nominated as the first deputy to represent the movement as a whole.<ref name="KR1995p212" /> They describe long-held disquiet among West London members at the pro-Zionist policy of the Board’s leadership, particularly after [[Selig Brodetsky]]’s election as President in 1939, and report that in 1946 many delegates formed an ‘independent deputies’ group to resist the use of the Board ‘as a spear-head for official Zionism’. West London and other Reform deputies then resigned; the Liberals, the Spanish and Portuguese Congregation and the [[Anglo-Jewish Association]] left at the same time over the Zionist issue. An agreement led to the return of all parties, with changes to the Board’s constitution and a declaration that it is independent of any form of outside control.<ref name="KR1995p215" /> [[Percy Cohen]] hailed the return as a success in the fight against ‘regimentation of opinion’, although Kershen and Romain write that the non-Zionist element was increasingly described as a ‘minority’.<ref name="KR1995p216" />

=== Israel and the movement, 1958–1980 ===
At its 1959 conference, after a vigorous debate, the Reform Synagogues of Great Britain (RSGB) voted by 32 to 19 to resign from the [[World Union for Progressive Judaism]] (WUPJ), whose American Reform policies were felt to be far removed from the RSGB’s religious stance; individual synagogues, including Cardiff, remained affiliated. Within a year the Union’s headquarters had moved from London to New York, a European Section had been formed, and Edgware proposed that the movement rejoin, which the 1960 conference carried by 45 to 11. A resolution the following year to disaffiliate again was substantially rejected and prompted a rule that a decision to affiliate to an organisation of synagogues should be effective for a minimum of three years.<ref name="KR1995p265">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 265.</ref> The Twelfth International WUPJ Conference was held in London in July 1961 with delegates from 23 countries. In 1969 the European Board’s offices moved from The Red Lodge, [[Lily Montagu]]’s home, to 34 Upper Berkeley Street, premises owned by West London, and in 1972 the RSGB’s outlook was reflected in the decision to affiliate to the [[World Jewish Congress]].<ref name="KR1995p265" /> Kershen and Romain write that the WUPJ’s increasing involvement with Israel was backed fully by the RSGB: in 1975 the Union joined the [[World Zionist Organization]] and moved its headquarters to Jerusalem, as an act of identification with Israel and to strengthen the voice of Progressive Judaism there.<ref name="KR1995p265" />

They describe a change from hostility or indifference to Zionism in the 1940s and 1950s into fervent support in the 1960s. The first RSGB tour to Israel took place in March 1965 with 120 participants, and the Friends of Progressive Judaism in Israel was established shortly afterwards. The RSGB supported the WUPJ in negotiations with the Israeli government over restrictions on Progressive Judaism; they were informed by Prime Minister [[David Ben-Gurion|Ben-Gurion]] that the restrictions would end ‘as soon as an Israeli rabbi is rabbi of a Progressive congregation in Jerusalem’, and Kershen and Romain note that the latter happened long before the former.<ref name="KR1995p266">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 266.</ref> At its conference at Blackpool on 2–4 June 1967, shortly before the Six Day War, the RSGB unanimously passed a resolution deploring the aggression of Israel’s neighbours, confirming ‘wholehearted and brotherly solidarity’ with the leaders and people of Israel and pledging moral, material and physical support for the defence of its territorial sovereignty; it called on synagogues to hold prayers and to make financial contributions.<ref name="KR1995p266" /><ref name="KR1995p267">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 267.</ref> The RSGB took a major part in setting up the Jewish Youth Organisation Emergency Committee for Israel, and an RSGB Israel Commission chaired by Rabbi [[Henry Brandt]] urged in 1968 the establishment of a Progressive Jewish settlement in Israel and a year of study in Israel for [[Leo Baeck College]] students. An exchange programme between Israeli and British youth began in 1969.<ref name="KR1995p267" />

In 1974 the RSGB and the ULPS sponsored the first [[Joint Israel Appeal]] mission to Israel.<ref name="KR1995p268">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 268.</ref> After the 1973 Yom Kippur War, Kershen and Romain write, the ‘Who is a Jew?’ debate was renewed in Israel the following year; the RSGB chairman, [[Eva Mitchell]], wrote a strongly worded letter to Prime Minister [[Yitzhak Rabin]] arguing that the issue went beyond the validity of Reform conversions to the status of non-Orthodox Judaism.<ref name="KR1995p268" /> In November 1975, after the United Nations resolution equating Zionism with racism, the RSGB Council said that it totally rejected the attempt by Israel’s enemies to differentiate between Jew and Zionist.<ref name="KR1995p269">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 269.</ref> In 1976 the [[Israel Action Group]] was founded under the chairmanship of [[Dow Marmur]]; among its projects was the Special Spinal Rehabilitation Unit at Tel Hashomer Hospital.<ref name="KR1995p270">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 270.</ref> The dedication of [[Kibbutz Yahel]] in the Negev, the first Progressive kibbutz in Israel, sponsored by the World Union, took place a year after that UN resolution and was attended by several RSGB leaders; a Czech Torah scroll from [[Westminster Synagogue]] was carried under a ''chuppah'' to the ark.<ref name="KR1995p265" /><ref name="KR1995p269" /> Kershen and Romain write that the RSGB did not reach its £100,000 target for Yahel but raised enough for its library, and that West London equipped its dental clinic.<ref name="KR1995p270" /> In 1977 Chaim Lederman arrived as a ''shaliach'' funded by the [[Jewish Agency for Israel|Jewish Agency]], an experimental two-year arrangement that became permanent.<ref name="KR1995p270" /><ref name="KR1995p271" />

[[ProZion|Pro-Zion]] was established together with the Liberals in 1978 as the political voice of Progressive Judaism, modelled on the Association of Reform Zionists of America; its first chairman was Arthur Hill, and it affiliated with the [[Zionist Federation of the United Kingdom and Ireland|Zionist Federation]]. Two years later it joined [[ARZENU]], the international federation of Reform and Progressive religious Zionists.<ref name="KR1995p268" /> At the Twenty-ninth Zionist Congress in Jerusalem in February 1978, where the RSGB was represented by Bernard Davis, the Congress recognised the pluralism of Judaism for the first time and passed a resolution calling for equal treatment for every Jew regardless of religious identification.<ref name="KR1995p270" />

=== Israel and Zionism, 1980–1995 ===
Kershen and Romain write that the Six Year Plan’s call to promote the Land of Israel came when enthusiasm for Israel among Reform members seemed endangered by the anti-Reform stance of the Likud government under Menachem Begin. They cite disquiet at bias towards Orthodox establishments in the funding of Diaspora education, the lack of recognition of Reform communities in Israel, and obstacles faced by Reform synagogues there.<ref name="KR1995p329">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 329.</ref> Threats to amend the [[Law of Return]] to exclude those converted by non-Orthodox authorities recurred after the 1984 general election: an RSGB and ULPS deputation raised its concerns with the Israeli ambassador, and the Assembly of Rabbis boycotted Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir’s visit to Britain the following year because of his vote to change the status quo. Later conferences passed resolutions on the issue, including in 1985 and 1994.<ref name="KR1995p330">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 330.</ref> Pro-Zion played an increasing role in the Zionist Federation, filling two honorary posts after the Herut and General Zionist groups left in 1983, and in 1987 was instrumental in pressing for elections to allocate Britain’s delegates to the Zionist Congress, being allocated three of Britain’s 27 mandates, having received none at the previous Congress four years earlier.<ref name="KR1995p331">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 331.</ref> Its chairman, Bernard Davis, told the RSGB council that Progressive Zionism ‘truly came of age in 1987’; Kershen and Romain add that a 1988 World Zionist Congress resolution called for complete equality of rights for all streams of Jewish religion.<ref name="KR1995p331" /><ref name="KR1995p332">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 332.</ref>

Kershen and Romain write that the 1982 Lebanon campaign caused soul-searching: many British Jews, including members of Reform synagogues, felt that for the first time they could not justify a war in which Israel was fighting, although the RSGB co-ordinated collections of funds, clothes and medical supplies.<ref name="KR1995p332" /> They describe ambivalent reactions to the Intifada, which they say broke out in 1988; the council resolved to issue a statement expressing solidarity with Israel’s citizens and deploring the obstructionism of the Arab nations, while calling upon Israel to break out of its political deadlock. Kershen and Romain say the RSGB was one of the few British Jewish organisations to criticise Israel publicly, and that its spokesmen justified this by pointing to criticism made by Israelis themselves.<ref name="KR1995p332" /><ref name="KR1995p333">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 333.</ref>

Kershen and Romain write that the RSGB welcomed the 1993 peace agreement between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organisation: its council expressed ‘admiration for the bravery and vision of Prime Minister Rabin’ and saluted PLO chairman [[Yasser Arafat]]. When Arafat visited London a few months later, the RSGB gave public support to the decision of Judge [[Israel Finestein]], President of the Board of Deputies, to meet him. In early 1994 the RSGB held, at West London, a memorial service for Arab victims of the Hebron massacre, with Muslims participating; its chairman, [[David Walsh]], called it an expression of the Jewish community’s sympathy and abhorrence of fanaticism.<ref name="KR1995p335">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 335.</ref>

=== Organisations listed in 2021 ===
Under “Organisations whose work we support”, the October 2021 website capture listed the following. This is the website’s description of support for their work, not an account of amounts donated or proof of payments to each organisation.<ref name="MRJIsrael2021" />
*[[Abraham Initiatives|Abraham Fund Initiatives]]
*[[British Friends of Merchavim]]
*[[Center for Jewish-Arab Economic Development]]
*[[Israel-Palestine Center for Research and Information]]
*[[Leo Baeck Education Center]]
*[[Mahapach-Taghir]]
*[[New Israel Fund]]
*[[OneVoice Movement|OneVoice]]
*[[Parents Circle – Families Forum]]
*[[Rabbis for Human Rights]]
*[[Women of the Wall]]
*[[Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism|Israel Movement for Reform & Progressive Judaism]] (IMPJ)

=== Israel Desk ===
The [[Alliance for Progressive Judaism]] announced the appointment of [[Carrie Shaw]] as Israel Desk coordinator in July 2017. Its announcements describe a partnership involving [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Liberal Judaism]], MRJ, the [[Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism]], [[ProZion]], [[Friends of Leo Baeck Haifa]] and [[Friends of Progressive Judaism]], working on education, engagement and coordination of messages and campaigns. The MRJ announcement described the role as part-funded by Israel, while Liberal Judaism specified funding by partners in Israel; neither announcement provides a funding split.<ref name="Desk2017">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/alliance-appoints-israel-desk-coordinator/ Alliance appoints Israel Desk coordinator], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', 6 July 2017, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="LJDesk2017">Liberal Judaism, [https://www.liberaljudaism.org/2017/07/alliance-appoints-israel-desk-coordinator/ Alliance appoints Israel Desk coordinator], ''Liberal Judaism'', 4 July 2017, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> These sources document Shaw’s appointment in 2017, not current staffing in 2026.<ref name="Desk2017" /><ref name="LJDesk2017" />

=== MPJ’s stated position after the operational union ===
[[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]] describes itself as a Zionist movement committed to a Jewish, pluralist and democratic state and to two safe and secure states, Israel and Palestine. Its Israel page says that its leaders, rabbis and cantors are developing a detailed framework, welcomes the diversity of views among its members, and describes work alongside the [[Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism]].<ref name="MPJIsrael">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/israel/ Our Relationship with Israel], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== RSY-Netzer youth movement ==
MRJ sponsored [[RSY-Netzer]], whose name stands for Reform Synagogue Youth and Noar Tzioni Reformi (Reform Zionist Youth). Its archived statement identifies it as part of [[Netzer Olami]].<ref name="MRJAbout" /><ref name="RSYBeliefs2021">RSY-Netzer, [https://web.archive.org/web/20211016204733id_/https://rsy-netzer.org.uk/about/what-we-believe/ What We Believe], ''RSY-Netzer'', Wayback capture, 16 October 2021, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The October 2021 statement describes an annual ''veidah'' conference examining beliefs and practices, with decisions recorded in a Policies, Beliefs and Actions booklet; it sets out Reform Judaism, Reform Zionism, Tikkun Olam and Livluv as its values.<ref name="RSYBeliefs2021" />

Its programme page advertises five Shemesh summer camps, Choref winter camps, the Course Hadracha leadership programme for 15–17-year-olds and a post-GCSE Israel tour intended to engage participants with Progressive Judaism and Reform Zionism. It also describes a Shnat gap-year programme organised by Netzer Olami and shared with [[LJY-Netzer]], as well as work with Reform communities across Britain.<ref name="RSYProgrammes">RSY-Netzer, [https://rsy-netzer.org.uk/about/what-we-do/ What We Do], ''RSY-Netzer'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The current page identifies RSY-Netzer as part of [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]] and displays MPJ charity number 1214734.<ref name="RSYProgrammes" />

On 8 July 2020 RSY-Netzer publicised a statement against the proposed annexation of territories in the occupied West Bank by the Israeli government.<ref name="RSYAnnex2020">RSY-Netzer, [https://twitter.com/RSYNetzer/status/1280806667983171586?s=20 Statement against the proposed annexation of West Bank Territories by the Israeli Government], ''X'', 8 July 2020, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== Members and communities ==
MRJ’s preserved website text contains different figures: “43 communities” under “Our Partners” and “42 Reform communities” under “Our Communities”. Its 2025 trustees’ report describes an association of 42 Reform congregations.<ref name="MRJAbout" /><ref name="MRJAccounts2025" /> These are not interchangeable with the current membership of [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]], whose directory describes “around 80” communities across the UK and Ireland.<ref name="MPJDirectory">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/find-a-community/ Find a Community], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

The table identifies Reform heritage and directory listings rather than certifying the current operating or legal status of every congregation. It includes [[The West London Synagogue of British Jews|West London Synagogue]], which [[JCR-UK]] says suspended MRJ membership in 2020 and whose affiliation lapsed in February 2023; JCR-UK now lists it as unaffiliated to MPJ, and it is not in MPJ’s current directory.<ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="MPJDirectory" /> JCR-UK marks Reform heritage with “(R)” in its list.<ref name="MPJJCR" />

The MPJ directory uses “South Hampshire Progressive Community”; that community’s own website calls it [[South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community]] and expressly describes membership of MRJ. JCR-UK likewise marks it as Reform heritage.<ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="SouthHampshire">South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community, [https://southhantsreform.wordpress.com/ About SHRJC and how to contact us], ''South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MPJJCR" /> Conversely, JCR-UK identifies [[The Ark Synagogue (Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue)|The Ark Synagogue]], [[Beit Klal Yisrael]], [[Crawley Jewish Community]], [[Crouch End Chavurah]], [[Kehillah North London]], [[Lincolnshire Jewish Community]] and [[South Bucks Jewish Community]] as Liberal heritage; they are not included as Reform communities below.<ref name="MPJJCR" />

MPJ’s directory still uses the name [[Harlow Jewish Community]], while its 4 February 2026 announcement records the formation of [[Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community]] from Harlow and [[Chelmsford Jewish Community]].<ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="Harlow2026">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/harlow-and-chelmsford-merge-to-create-new-combined-community/ Harlow and Chelmsford unite and create new combined community], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', 4 February 2026, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> [[Makor Hayim]] is also still listed, but its 2025 report announced expected closure by 31 May 2026; that prospective statement does not confirm completed closure or asset transfer.<ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="Makor2025">Makor Hayim, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A19191068&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=5157701&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=5157701 Trustees’ report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2025] ''Makor Hayim'', pp. 2–3, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Reform-heritage communities and predecessors; directory status checked 6 November 2026
! Community !! Heritage !! Directory / affiliation qualification !! Source
|-
| [[Alyth|Alyth (North Western Reform Synagogue)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Beth Shalom Reform Synagogue|Beth Shalom Reform Synagogue, Cambridge]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Bournemouth Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Bradford Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Brighton and Hove Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Bromley Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Cardiff Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Cheshire Reform Congregation|Menorah Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Coventry Jewish Reform Community]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Darlington Hebrew Congregation]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Edgware and Hendon Reform Synagogue|Edgware & Hendon Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Finchley Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Glasgow Reform Synagogue SCIO|Glasgow Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community|Harlow Jewish Community]] || Reform || Reform predecessor; merged Harlow and Chelmsford community announced February 2026 || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="Harlow2026" />
|-
| [[Isle of Wight Jewish Society]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Kehillat Kernow – The Jewish Community of Cornwall]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Kol Chai - Hatch End Jewish Community|Kol Chai – Hatch End Jewish Community]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Liverpool Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Maidenhead Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Makor Hayim]] || Reform || Listed in directory; closure announced for May 2026, completion not established || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="Makor2025" />
|-
| [[Manchester Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Milton Keynes & District Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Mosaic Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Ne've Shalom – Hull Reform Synagogue|Ne’ve Shalom]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Newcastle Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[North West Surrey Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue|Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue (previously SWESRS)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Radlett Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Seven Hills Shul|Seven Hills Shul (Sheffield)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sha'arei Shalom (North Manchester Reform Congregation)|Sha’arei Shalom]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sha'arei Tsedek North London Reform Synagogue|Sha’arei Tsedek (North London Reform Synagogue)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sinai Synagogue (Reform)|Sinai Synagogue, Leeds]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community]] || Reform || Listed by MPJ as South Hampshire Progressive Community || <ref name="SouthHampshire" /><ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="MPJDirectory" />
|-
| [[Southend & District Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Southport & District Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sukkat Shalom Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Swindon Jewish Community]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Thanet & District Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[The West London Synagogue of British Jews|West London Synagogue of British Jews]] || Reform || Former MRJ member; JCR-UK records affiliation lapsed February 2023; not in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Tikvah Chadasha (Brentwood Reform Synagogue)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Totnes Jewish Community]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Wimbledon and District Synagogue|The Wimbledon Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|}

== Affiliations ==
MRJ’s preserved explanatory website identifies the following institutional relationships:<ref name="MRJAbout" />
* [[World Union for Progressive Judaism]] and [[European Union for Progressive Judaism]]: constituent movement.
* [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Liberal Judaism]]: the other British Progressive movement with which it worked before the operational union.
* [[Leo Baeck College]]: rabbinic and educational training.
* [[RSY-Netzer]]: sponsored youth movement.
The [[World Zionist Organization]] lists the [[World Union for Progressive Judaism]] among its affiliated international Zionist organisations.<ref name="WZO">World Zionist Organization, [https://www.wzo.org.il/Affiliated-Zionist-organizations International Zionist Organizations], ''World Zionist Organization'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> [[Westminster Synagogue]] is listed by [[JCR-UK]] as an unaffiliated Progressive congregation, rather than a constituent MPJ community.<ref name="MPJJCR" />

== Contact ==
The movement’s website gives its institutional address as The [[Sternberg Centre for Judaism]], 80 East End Road, London N3 2SY, and telephone number 020 8349 5640.<ref name="MRJAbout" /> [[Companies House]] gives the registered office as Movement For Reform Judaism, 80 East End Road, Finchley, London N3 2SY.<ref name="MRJCompany" />

== See also ==
* [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]]
* [[Liberal Judaism (UK)]]
* [[Synagogues in the United Kingdom]]
* [[Jewish Schools in the UK]]

== External links ==
* [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk MRJ website]

== Notes ==
<references/>

[[Category:Synagogue movements UK]]
[[Category:Zionist movement UK]]

The Movement for Reform Judaism

2026-11-10T13:16:37Z

Synagogue research: Added sourced provincial-origins and association history from Kershen & Romain, Tradition and Change (1995)

{{short description|'''British Reform Jewish movement whose operational activities transferred to Progressive Judaism in 2026'''}}
{{Infobox organization
| name = The Movement for Reform Judaism
| logo = [[File:Movement for Reform Judaism logo from 2025 report.png|200px]]
| type = Jewish religious movement; continuing registered charity and company limited by guarantee
| founded = {{Start date|1942}}
| registration_id = 1139806 ([[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]]); company 07431950
| status = Operational activities transferred to [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]] on 1 January 2026; charitable company continues
| headquarters = The [[Sternberg Centre for Judaism]], 80 East End Road, Finchley, London N3 2SY
| registration = England and Wales
| key_people = [[Edward Kessler (trustee, The Movement for Reform Judaism)|Dr Edward Kessler]]; [[Michele Ruth Saffer]]; [[Melvin Pedro]] (trustees listed on 6 November 2026)
| website = https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk
}}
'''The Movement for Reform Judaism''' (MRJ), also known as '''Reform Judaism''', is a British Reform Jewish movement whose operational activities transferred to [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]] (MPJ) on 1 January 2026. Its trustees’ report states that the original registered charity continues to exist to receive residual legacies and donations, rather than having been dissolved by the operational transfer.<ref name="MRJAccounts2025">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07431950/filing-history/MzU0MDI4OTMwNGFkaXF6a2N4/document?format=pdf&download=0 Trustees’ annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2025], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', 22 July 2026, pp. 1–5, 7–11, 16–18, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> [[Companies House]] continued to list company 07431950 as active on 6 November 2026, and the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] continued to list charity 1139806 and its trustees.<ref name="MRJCompany">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07431950 The Movement for Reform Judaism (07431950): overview], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MRJGovernance">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5015263/governance The Movement for Reform Judaism: governance], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MRJTrustees">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5015263/trustees The Movement for Reform Judaism: trustees], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

MRJ and [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Liberal Judaism]] voted to unite on 18 May 2025. That announcement distinguished the vote from the further work of legally forming the new movement; the subsequent MRJ report dates its operational transfer to 1 January 2026.<ref name="Vote2025">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/history-made-as-progressive-judaism-forms/ History made as Progressive Judaism forms], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', 18 May 2025, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MRJAccounts2025" /> MRJ’s preserved explanatory website describes its historical membership of the [[World Union for Progressive Judaism]] and the [[European Union for Progressive Judaism]], and its educational, communal and youth work.<ref name="MRJAbout">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/about/ What was MRJ?], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== History ==
MRJ’s own historical account traces British Reform Judaism to 1840 and the national association of Reform communities to 1942. The association subsequently became known as The Movement for Reform Judaism.<ref name="MRJAbout" /> The charitable company was incorporated on 8 November 2010 and registered as charity 1139806 on 12 January 2011. The charity register records funds received from predecessor charity 250060 on 22 May 2012.<ref name="MRJCompany" /><ref name="MRJGovernance" />

=== Provincial origins, 1856–1898 ===
[[Anne J. Kershen|Kershen]] and [[Jonathan A. Romain|Romain]]’s 1995 history traces provincial Reform Judaism to [[Manchester Reform Synagogue|Manchester]], where a Reform Association was established on 17 February 1856. Its resolutions called for the adoption of the Margaret Street (West London) prayer book, liturgy and ritual and the introduction of a choir, and for the Association to combine with the general body of Manchester Jewry. According to Kershen and Romain, the Orthodox Halliwell Street committee and Chief Rabbi [[Nathan Marcus Adler|Nathan Adler]] would make only minor concessions, while the Reformers offered a single concession: retention of the Second Day of festivals.<ref name="KR1995p63">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 63.</ref>

The foundation stone of what was first designated the Park Place Synagogue of British Jews of Manchester was laid in March 1857 at a ceremony attended by Manchester Reformers and representatives of [[The West London Synagogue of British Jews|West London Synagogue]].<ref name="KR1995p64">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 64.</ref> Dr [[Solomon Marcus Schiller-Szinessy|Solomon Schiller-Szinessy]], who had arrived in Manchester in 1850, was the sole applicant for the Reformers’ post; Kershen and Romain say that his request to be designated ‘Chief Rabbi’ was refused but that he took the post.<ref name="KR1995p62">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 62.</ref><ref name="KR1995p64" /> The consecration took place on 25 March 1858. The building, designed by [[Edward Salomons]], followed the Margaret Street ritual but introduced an organ and a mixed choir of forty.<ref name="KR1995p65">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 65.</ref><ref name="KR1995p66">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 66.</ref> Kershen and Romain say that the difference over the Second Day, which Schiller-Szinessy defended as an ancient institution rather than a Mosaic ordinance, meant that Park Place did not become a ‘branch’ of West London and remained an autonomous associate, setting a pattern for later Reform congregations.<ref name="KR1995p65" /> In 1860 those in favour of abolishing the Second Day prevailed, and Schiller-Szinessy resigned in protest.<ref name="KR1995p67">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 67.</ref>

[[Gustav Gottheil]], formerly third minister to the Berlin Reform community, became Manchester’s second Reform minister; after thirteen years he left in September 1873 to become minister of the Emanu-El Synagogue in New York.<ref name="KR1995p68">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 68.</ref><ref name="KR1995p69">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 69.</ref> [[Laurence Mark Simmons]], described as the first English-born minister of the Manchester Reform congregation, was trained at Breslau with support from West London’s ministers’ training fund. His ministry ended with his early death in 1900, and Kershen and Romain put the congregation’s membership at 500 by the end of the century.<ref name="KR1995p70">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 70.</ref>

In [[Bradford Synagogue|Bradford]], the Jewish Association of Bradford was founded after a meeting convened by Charles Semon and Charles Calman on 1 April 1873. [[Joseph Strauss]] of Germany was appointed its director in November 1873 and served the community until 1922.<ref name="KR1995p73">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 73.</ref><ref name="KR1995p77">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 77.</ref> Kershen and Romain write that the community first used the Hamburg Temple prayer book and that in 1878 pragmatism demanded a change to the ritual and liturgy of West London. They report that West London’s council had initially refused association on the ground that the ‘advanced views’ of the majority of the Bradford community were an impediment, and that West London was then reluctant to draw up rules for formal association until a sub-committee was set up after pressure from Bradford and an emerging Leeds community.<ref name="KR1995p75">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 75.</ref> They date the foundation-stone ceremony at Bowland Street to 1880 and the consecration to 29 March 1881, and describe Bradford as unique among nineteenth-century British Jewish communities in establishing a Reform synagogue before an Orthodox house of worship.<ref name="KR1995p75" /><ref name="KR1995p76">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 76.</ref> In 1880 Strauss applied to West London for the post of assistant minister; Kershen and Romain report that he was turned down because of the manner in which he delivered his sermons, quoting [[David Woolf Marks]]’s report that his reading ‘grates horribly on the ear’.<ref name="KR1995p74">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 74.</ref>

Kershen and Romain also record unsuccessful attempts to found Reform congregations elsewhere. In 1867 [[Philip Magnus]] suggested that West London authorise a minister to conduct weekly services in hired rooms at Brighton for part of the year; the surviving record notes only that the request was ‘not acceded to’, dated 6 December 1867.<ref name="KR1995p81">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 81.</ref><ref name="KR1995p82">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 82.</ref> In Leeds, Joseph Guttman Oppenheim wrote to West London’s council in June 1880 seeking to establish a synagogue following West London ritual, and announced in August 1880 the acquisition of a former Christian chapel; the correspondence then ceased, and the minute book of Belgrave Street synagogue indicates that the matter with Oppenheim and another seceder was settled by October 1880. A second group led by S. Tannenberg wrote from the ‘New Hebrew Congregation’ on 1 January 1881. Kershen and Romain conclude that Reform lay dormant in Leeds until a congregation was established in 1944.<ref name="KR1995p83">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 83.</ref><ref name="KR1995p84">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 84.</ref><ref name="KR1995p85">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 85.</ref> In 1874 residents of Clapham, Brixton and neighbouring areas wrote to West London in the name of a ‘South London Synagogue of British Jews’; membership stayed below the twenty required for association, the planned consecration and association did not take place, and in 1877 West London refused a request for £100 a year for three years.<ref name="KR1995p86">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 86.</ref><ref name="KR1995p87">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 87.</ref> They summarise that by the end of the nineteenth century only three Reform congregations existed in Britain: West London, Manchester and Bradford.<ref name="KR1995p88">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 88.</ref>

In a letter to the ''Jewish Chronicle'' in 1893, Strauss held West London responsible for a ‘lack of brotherly connection’ with the provinces.<ref name="KR1995p79">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 79.</ref><ref name="KR1995p80">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 80.</ref> On 8 January 1898 [[Morris Joseph]], minister of West London since 1893, presented a paper to the West London Synagogue Association proposing closer links between the three Reform synagogues. The meeting in London was attended by Strauss and two other Bradford representatives but by no one from Manchester. Joseph then asked the two provincial congregations to approve a non-financial ‘federation’, with periodic conferences held alternately in London, Manchester and Bradford, consultative only, each congregation retaining its independence in ritual.<ref name="KR1995p80" /> The West London Association’s annual report recorded an ‘extremely favourable’ reply from Bradford and an ‘extremely unfavourable’ reply from Manchester, whose lay council said that the synagogue’s community and civic position was of far more importance than the proposed federation.<ref name="KR1995p80" /><ref name="KR1995p81" /> Kershen and Romain write that the plan was abandoned and not reconsidered until 1942, when the resolution to establish the Associated British Synagogues was passed at a meeting held in Manchester.<ref name="KR1995p81" />

=== National association, 1942–1994 ===
The national association was established in 1942 as Associated British Synagogues. It joined the [[World Union for Progressive Judaism]] in 1945 and became the Association of Synagogues in Great Britain in 1946.<ref name="KR1995p360">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 360.</ref>

The [[Reform Beth Din]] was established in 1948, and the association established [[Leo Baeck College]] in 1956. The [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Union of Liberal and Progressive Synagogues]] became a co-sponsor of the college in 1964.<ref name="KR1995p360361">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, pp. 360–361.</ref>

In 1958 the association adopted the name Reform Synagogues of Great Britain, then comprising 18 synagogues. The [[Council of Reform and Liberal Rabbis]] was established in 1968.<ref name="KR1995p360361" />

The [[Youth Association of Synagogues in Great Britain]] was established in 1946, became Reform Synagogue Youth in 1979 and adopted the name [[RSY-Netzer]] in 1982. The [[Assembly of Ministers]], established in 1947, became the [[Assembly of Rabbis]] in 1976.<ref name="KR1995p360" />

[[Anne J. Kershen|Kershen]] and [[Jonathan A. Romain|Romain]]'s chronology records [[Raymond Goldman]]'s appointment as general secretary in 1966, his change of role to executive director in 1979, and [[Tony Bayfield]]'s appointment as chief executive in 1994.<ref name="KR1995p361">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 361.</ref>

Kershen and Romain write that by 1957 the influence of the German refugee rabbis was beginning to wane, noting among those who had died in the preceding years [[Caesar Seligmann]] (1950), [[Herman Schreiber]] (1954), [[Bruno Italiener]] (1956), [[Ernest Sawady]] (1956), [[Max Katten]] (1957) and [[Gustav Pfingst]] (1957). [[Leo Baeck]] died on 2 November 1956; they describe him as President of the Reform movement, who worshipped mainly at North Western and at West London.<ref name="KR1995p216">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 216.</ref>

On relations with Liberal Judaism, Kershen and Romain record that in May 1962 the Reform Synagogues of Great Britain (RSGB) joined the social issues committee of the [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Union of Liberal and Progressive Synagogues]] (ULPS) as a joint venture, and that a Joint Chaplaincy Commission to serve Progressive Jewish students at universities was established in 1963.<ref name="KR1995p271">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 271.</ref>

=== Religious change, 1980–1995 ===
Kershen and Romain describe gradual changes in the religious direction of the RSGB during the 1980s: many congregations reintroduced Second Day Rosh Hashanah services, the role of women in services became more active, and specific ceremonies for female life-cycle events were developed. They write that some communities still opposed employing a female rabbi, on habit rather than ideology, and that none of those that appointed women rabbis found that fears of communal splits or loss of membership materialised. A collection of essays by women rabbis, ''Hear Our Voice'', was published in 1994.<ref name="KR1995p336">Anne J. Kershen and Jonathan A. Romain, ''Tradition and Change: A History of Reform Judaism in Britain, 1840–1995'', London: Vallentine Mitchell, 1995, p. 336.</ref>

=== Alliance for Progressive Judaism ===
On 17 September 2014 [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Liberal Judaism]] and MRJ announced the [[Alliance for Progressive Judaism]], expanding collaboration in student chaplaincy, social justice and social action. The announcement explicitly stated that this was not a merger: the movements would retain their autonomy and distinct identities, and congregations would remain members of their respective movements.<ref name="Alliance2014">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/liberal-and-reform-together-launch-alliance-for-progressive-judaism/ Liberal and Reform together launch alliance for Progressive Judaism], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', 17 September 2014, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

=== Movement for Progressive Judaism ===
[[JCR-UK]] dates the announcement of an intention to unite to April 2023. The movements held parallel extraordinary general meetings on 18 May 2025 and voted for unification.<ref name="MPJJCR">JCR-UK, [https://jewishgen.org/jcr-uk/Affiliations/Progressive.htm Movement for Progressive Judaism], ''JewishGen'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="Vote2025" /> The May announcement described further legal formation work as still to come; MPJ’s later account says that votes in favour exceeded 95% at each meeting.<ref name="Vote2025" /><ref name="MPJAbout">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/what-is-the-movement-for-progressive-judaism/ What is The Movement for Progressive Judaism?], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> JCR-UK records incorporation of the new [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]] company, 16501951, on 6 June 2025 and registration of its separate charity, 1214734, on 29 August 2025.<ref name="MPJJCR" />

The MRJ trustees’ report, approved on 22 July 2026, states that its operational activities transferred to MPJ on 1 January 2026, with those operations continuing in substance within MPJ. It also states that the MRJ charity would remain in existence to receive residual legacies and donations.<ref name="MRJAccounts2025" /> MPJ’s January 2026 privacy policy identifies the new company and charity and refers to integration work continuing during 2026.<ref name="MPJPrivacy">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/MPJ-Privacy-Policy-2026_v1.1.pdf MPJ Privacy Policy 2026], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', January 2026, p. 1, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> These are distinct organisational and legal entities; the operational union does not mean that the MRJ charity ceased to exist.<ref name="MRJAccounts2025" /><ref name="MRJCompany" />

The May 2025 announcement named Rabbi [[Josh Levy]] as MRJ chief executive and Rabbi [[Charley Baginsky]] as [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Liberal Judaism]] chief executive. In a joint statement dated 1 September 2026 they signed as the co-leads of MPJ, rather than as chief executives of two continuing operational movements.<ref name="Vote2025" /><ref name="MPJLeads2026">Josh Levy and Charley Baginsky, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/statement-on-the-possibility-of-uk-action-on-settlement-expansion/ Statement on the possibility of UK action on settlement expansion], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', 1 September 2026, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== Governance and charitable status ==
The [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] describes MRJ as a charitable company, number 1139806, linked to company 07431950.<ref name="MRJGovernance" /> Companies House describes it as a private company limited by guarantee without share capital, with an exemption from using “Limited” in its name.<ref name="MRJCompany" /> Its governing-document summary dates the memorandum and articles to 31 October 2010 and lists subsequent amendments, most recently on 1 January 2026; [[Companies House]] separately records incorporation on 8 November 2010.<ref name="MRJObjects">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5015263/governing-document The Movement for Reform Judaism: governing document], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MRJCompany" /> The registered objects are to promote and foster Judaism and any charitable purpose calculated to further the welfare of Jewish people in the UK, Israel or elsewhere in the world.<ref name="MRJObjects" />

The 2025 report says that the charity’s affairs were governed by its memorandum and articles and that an EGM on 18 May 2025 allowed current board members reaching the end of their terms to remain on the board for an extended period, to provide continuity during the transfer to [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]].<ref name="MRJAccounts2025" />

== People ==
=== Continuing MRJ charity trustees ===
The following are the three trustees listed by the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] on 6 November 2026; these legal-charity roles are separate from [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]]’s operational leadership.<ref name="MRJTrustees" /><ref name="MPJLeads2026" />
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Trustees of charity 1139806
! Name as recorded !! Appointment recorded !! Status at 6 November 2026 !! Source
|-
| [[Edward Kessler (trustee, The Movement for Reform Judaism)|Dr Edward Kessler]] || 1 January 2026 || Current trustee || <ref name="MRJTrustees" />
|-
| [[Michele Ruth Saffer]] || 19 November 2020 || Current trustee || <ref name="MRJTrustees" />
|-
| [[Melvin Pedro]] || 28 June 2020 || Current trustee || <ref name="MRJTrustees" />
|}

=== Continuing company directors ===
[[Companies House]] lists the following active directors of company 07431950. These are company-office dates.<ref name="MRJOfficers">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07431950/officers The Movement for Reform Judaism (07431950): officers], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Active company directors, checked 6 November 2026
! Name as recorded !! Appointment !! Resignation !! Source
|-
| [[Edward David Kessler]] || 1 January 2026 || Not recorded; active || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Melvin Pedro]] || 28 June 2020 || Not recorded; active || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Michele Ruth Saffer]] || 19 November 2020 || Not recorded; active || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|}

=== Selected former company directors ===
The following is a non-exhaustive selection of former directors, with names and dates as recorded by [[Companies House]].<ref name="MRJOfficers" />
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Selected former directors of company 07431950
! Name as recorded !! Appointment !! Resignation !! Source
|-
| [[Daniel Robert Benjamin]] || 28 June 2020 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Peter David Fraser]] || 24 June 2018 || 25 June 2023 || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Kathryn Anne Hirst]] || 30 June 2019 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Roberto Aron Lampl]] || 19 November 2020 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Ian Michael Lancaster]] || 30 June 2019 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Paul Anthony Langsford]] || 26 June 2016 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MRJOfficers" />
|}

=== Historical leadership: November 2021 ===
The following tables reproduce the leadership categories and names shown in the website capture of 28 November 2021. They are historical listings, not a statement that those positions continued after the operational transfer.<ref name="Leadership2021">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://web.archive.org/web/20211128062803id_/https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/leadership/ Leadership], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', Wayback capture, 28 November 2021, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Chairs in the November 2021 website capture
! Person !! Role shown !! Source
|-
| [[James Baaden|Rabbi James Baaden]] || Co-chair of the [[Assembly of Reform Rabbis and Cantors]] || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Kathleen Middleton|Rabbi Kathleen Middleton]] || Co-chair of the Assembly of Reform Rabbis and Cantors || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Michael Harris]] || Listed under Chairs || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Paul Langsford]] || Listed under Chairs || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Board members in the November 2021 website capture
! Person !! Role shown !! Source
|-
| [[Daniel Benjamin (trustee, The Movement for Reform Judaism)|Daniel Benjamin]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Daniel Mackintosh]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Ian Lancaster]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Joey Leskin]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Kathy Hirst]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Melvin Pedro]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Michael Harris]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Michele Saffer]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Paul Langsford]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Peter Fraser (trustee, The Movement for Reform Judaism)|Peter Fraser]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Roberto Lampl]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Roy Saatchi]] || Board member || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Senior management team in the November 2021 website capture
! Person !! Role shown !! Source
|-
| [[Debbie Doobay]] || Chief operating officer || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Amit Handelsman]] || Director of community partnership || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Sarita Robinson]] || Director of community partnership || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Jackie Tabick|Rabbi Dr Jackie Tabick]] || Beit Din convenor || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Sharon Daniels]] || Head of safeguarding and wellbeing || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|-
| [[Gilly Shulman]] || Director of HR || <ref name="Leadership2021" />
|}

== Accounts ==
The table gives the MRJ charity’s results for periods before the operational transfer; it is not a statement of [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]]’s separate finances.<ref name="MRJAccounts2025" />
{| class="wikitable"
|+ MRJ charity 1139806: annual accounts (£)
! Year ended 31 December !! Income !! Expenditure !! Net assets / funds !! Source
|-
| 2024 || 2,628,742 || 2,482,731 || 2,099,992 || <ref name="MRJAccounts2025" />
|-
| 2025 || 3,123,094 || 2,934,164 || 2,288,922 || <ref name="MRJAccounts2025" />
|}
The 2025 report acknowledges grants from organisations including [[United Jewish Israel Appeal|UJIA]] and [[Netzer Olami|Netzer Olami (Tamar)]]. Its acknowledgements page does not give the amounts of those individual grants.<ref name="MRJAccounts2025" />

== Relationship with Israel ==
MRJ’s Israel page, preserved in a 26 October 2021 capture and still accessible in the movement’s retained website text on 6 November 2026, states its organisational position as follows:<ref name="MRJIsrael2021">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://web.archive.org/web/20211026021459id_/https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/israel/ Israel], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', Wayback capture, 26 October 2021, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MRJIsrael">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/israel/ Israel], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
<blockquote>We are unequivocally Zionist. We have a non-negotiable commitment to the State of Israel and its security. We believe that the pursuit of peace is the highest ideal and priority. We are deeply committed to democracy; human rights and social justice; and religious pluralism.

We are committed to two viable states as the only just and realistic solution to the present situation.

We believe that Israel should be a Jewish state and a state for all its citizens.

We believe that exponents of moderate, liberal Judaism should ally with moderate, liberal secularists and work together to combat both religious and secular extremism.</blockquote>
The page also states that the movement supports organisations building bridges between Israeli Jews and Arabs, and between Israeli Jews and Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza.<ref name="MRJIsrael2021" /><ref name="MRJIsrael" />

=== Organisations listed in 2021 ===
Under “Organisations whose work we support”, the October 2021 website capture listed the following. This is the website’s description of support for their work, not an account of amounts donated or proof of payments to each organisation.<ref name="MRJIsrael2021" />
*[[Abraham Initiatives|Abraham Fund Initiatives]]
*[[British Friends of Merchavim]]
*[[Center for Jewish-Arab Economic Development]]
*[[Israel-Palestine Center for Research and Information]]
*[[Leo Baeck Education Center]]
*[[Mahapach-Taghir]]
*[[New Israel Fund]]
*[[OneVoice Movement|OneVoice]]
*[[Parents Circle – Families Forum]]
*[[Rabbis for Human Rights]]
*[[Women of the Wall]]
*[[Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism|Israel Movement for Reform & Progressive Judaism]] (IMPJ)

=== Israel Desk ===
The [[Alliance for Progressive Judaism]] announced the appointment of [[Carrie Shaw]] as Israel Desk coordinator in July 2017. Its announcements describe a partnership involving [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Liberal Judaism]], MRJ, the [[Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism]], [[ProZion]], [[Friends of Leo Baeck Haifa]] and [[Friends of Progressive Judaism]], working on education, engagement and coordination of messages and campaigns. The MRJ announcement described the role as part-funded by Israel, while Liberal Judaism specified funding by partners in Israel; neither announcement provides a funding split.<ref name="Desk2017">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/alliance-appoints-israel-desk-coordinator/ Alliance appoints Israel Desk coordinator], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', 6 July 2017, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="LJDesk2017">Liberal Judaism, [https://www.liberaljudaism.org/2017/07/alliance-appoints-israel-desk-coordinator/ Alliance appoints Israel Desk coordinator], ''Liberal Judaism'', 4 July 2017, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> These sources document Shaw’s appointment in 2017, not current staffing in 2026.<ref name="Desk2017" /><ref name="LJDesk2017" />

=== MPJ’s stated position after the operational union ===
[[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]] describes itself as a Zionist movement committed to a Jewish, pluralist and democratic state and to two safe and secure states, Israel and Palestine. Its Israel page says that its leaders, rabbis and cantors are developing a detailed framework, welcomes the diversity of views among its members, and describes work alongside the [[Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism]].<ref name="MPJIsrael">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/israel/ Our Relationship with Israel], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== RSY-Netzer youth movement ==
MRJ sponsored [[RSY-Netzer]], whose name stands for Reform Synagogue Youth and Noar Tzioni Reformi (Reform Zionist Youth). Its archived statement identifies it as part of [[Netzer Olami]].<ref name="MRJAbout" /><ref name="RSYBeliefs2021">RSY-Netzer, [https://web.archive.org/web/20211016204733id_/https://rsy-netzer.org.uk/about/what-we-believe/ What We Believe], ''RSY-Netzer'', Wayback capture, 16 October 2021, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The October 2021 statement describes an annual ''veidah'' conference examining beliefs and practices, with decisions recorded in a Policies, Beliefs and Actions booklet; it sets out Reform Judaism, Reform Zionism, Tikkun Olam and Livluv as its values.<ref name="RSYBeliefs2021" />

Its programme page advertises five Shemesh summer camps, Choref winter camps, the Course Hadracha leadership programme for 15–17-year-olds and a post-GCSE Israel tour intended to engage participants with Progressive Judaism and Reform Zionism. It also describes a Shnat gap-year programme organised by Netzer Olami and shared with [[LJY-Netzer]], as well as work with Reform communities across Britain.<ref name="RSYProgrammes">RSY-Netzer, [https://rsy-netzer.org.uk/about/what-we-do/ What We Do], ''RSY-Netzer'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The current page identifies RSY-Netzer as part of [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]] and displays MPJ charity number 1214734.<ref name="RSYProgrammes" />

On 8 July 2020 RSY-Netzer publicised a statement against the proposed annexation of territories in the occupied West Bank by the Israeli government.<ref name="RSYAnnex2020">RSY-Netzer, [https://twitter.com/RSYNetzer/status/1280806667983171586?s=20 Statement against the proposed annexation of West Bank Territories by the Israeli Government], ''X'', 8 July 2020, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== Members and communities ==
MRJ’s preserved website text contains different figures: “43 communities” under “Our Partners” and “42 Reform communities” under “Our Communities”. Its 2025 trustees’ report describes an association of 42 Reform congregations.<ref name="MRJAbout" /><ref name="MRJAccounts2025" /> These are not interchangeable with the current membership of [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]], whose directory describes “around 80” communities across the UK and Ireland.<ref name="MPJDirectory">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/find-a-community/ Find a Community], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

The table identifies Reform heritage and directory listings rather than certifying the current operating or legal status of every congregation. It includes [[The West London Synagogue of British Jews|West London Synagogue]], which [[JCR-UK]] says suspended MRJ membership in 2020 and whose affiliation lapsed in February 2023; JCR-UK now lists it as unaffiliated to MPJ, and it is not in MPJ’s current directory.<ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="MPJDirectory" /> JCR-UK marks Reform heritage with “(R)” in its list.<ref name="MPJJCR" />

The MPJ directory uses “South Hampshire Progressive Community”; that community’s own website calls it [[South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community]] and expressly describes membership of MRJ. JCR-UK likewise marks it as Reform heritage.<ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="SouthHampshire">South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community, [https://southhantsreform.wordpress.com/ About SHRJC and how to contact us], ''South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MPJJCR" /> Conversely, JCR-UK identifies [[The Ark Synagogue (Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue)|The Ark Synagogue]], [[Beit Klal Yisrael]], [[Crawley Jewish Community]], [[Crouch End Chavurah]], [[Kehillah North London]], [[Lincolnshire Jewish Community]] and [[South Bucks Jewish Community]] as Liberal heritage; they are not included as Reform communities below.<ref name="MPJJCR" />

MPJ’s directory still uses the name [[Harlow Jewish Community]], while its 4 February 2026 announcement records the formation of [[Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community]] from Harlow and [[Chelmsford Jewish Community]].<ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="Harlow2026">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/harlow-and-chelmsford-merge-to-create-new-combined-community/ Harlow and Chelmsford unite and create new combined community], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', 4 February 2026, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> [[Makor Hayim]] is also still listed, but its 2025 report announced expected closure by 31 May 2026; that prospective statement does not confirm completed closure or asset transfer.<ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="Makor2025">Makor Hayim, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A19191068&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=5157701&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=5157701 Trustees’ report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2025] ''Makor Hayim'', pp. 2–3, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Reform-heritage communities and predecessors; directory status checked 6 November 2026
! Community !! Heritage !! Directory / affiliation qualification !! Source
|-
| [[Alyth|Alyth (North Western Reform Synagogue)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Beth Shalom Reform Synagogue|Beth Shalom Reform Synagogue, Cambridge]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Bournemouth Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Bradford Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Brighton and Hove Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Bromley Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Cardiff Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Cheshire Reform Congregation|Menorah Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Coventry Jewish Reform Community]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Darlington Hebrew Congregation]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Edgware and Hendon Reform Synagogue|Edgware & Hendon Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Finchley Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Glasgow Reform Synagogue SCIO|Glasgow Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community|Harlow Jewish Community]] || Reform || Reform predecessor; merged Harlow and Chelmsford community announced February 2026 || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="Harlow2026" />
|-
| [[Isle of Wight Jewish Society]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Kehillat Kernow – The Jewish Community of Cornwall]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Kol Chai - Hatch End Jewish Community|Kol Chai – Hatch End Jewish Community]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Liverpool Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Maidenhead Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Makor Hayim]] || Reform || Listed in directory; closure announced for May 2026, completion not established || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="Makor2025" />
|-
| [[Manchester Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Milton Keynes & District Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Mosaic Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Ne've Shalom – Hull Reform Synagogue|Ne’ve Shalom]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Newcastle Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[North West Surrey Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue|Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue (previously SWESRS)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Radlett Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Seven Hills Shul|Seven Hills Shul (Sheffield)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sha'arei Shalom (North Manchester Reform Congregation)|Sha’arei Shalom]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sha'arei Tsedek North London Reform Synagogue|Sha’arei Tsedek (North London Reform Synagogue)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sinai Synagogue (Reform)|Sinai Synagogue, Leeds]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community]] || Reform || Listed by MPJ as South Hampshire Progressive Community || <ref name="SouthHampshire" /><ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="MPJDirectory" />
|-
| [[Southend & District Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Southport & District Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sukkat Shalom Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Swindon Jewish Community]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Thanet & District Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[The West London Synagogue of British Jews|West London Synagogue of British Jews]] || Reform || Former MRJ member; JCR-UK records affiliation lapsed February 2023; not in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Tikvah Chadasha (Brentwood Reform Synagogue)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Totnes Jewish Community]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Wimbledon and District Synagogue|The Wimbledon Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|}

== Affiliations ==
MRJ’s preserved explanatory website identifies the following institutional relationships:<ref name="MRJAbout" />
* [[World Union for Progressive Judaism]] and [[European Union for Progressive Judaism]]: constituent movement.
* [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Liberal Judaism]]: the other British Progressive movement with which it worked before the operational union.
* [[Leo Baeck College]]: rabbinic and educational training.
* [[RSY-Netzer]]: sponsored youth movement.
The [[World Zionist Organization]] lists the [[World Union for Progressive Judaism]] among its affiliated international Zionist organisations.<ref name="WZO">World Zionist Organization, [https://www.wzo.org.il/Affiliated-Zionist-organizations International Zionist Organizations], ''World Zionist Organization'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> [[Westminster Synagogue]] is listed by [[JCR-UK]] as an unaffiliated Progressive congregation, rather than a constituent MPJ community.<ref name="MPJJCR" />

== Contact ==
The movement’s website gives its institutional address as The [[Sternberg Centre for Judaism]], 80 East End Road, London N3 2SY, and telephone number 020 8349 5640.<ref name="MRJAbout" /> [[Companies House]] gives the registered office as Movement For Reform Judaism, 80 East End Road, Finchley, London N3 2SY.<ref name="MRJCompany" />

== See also ==
* [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]]
* [[Liberal Judaism (UK)]]
* [[Synagogues in the United Kingdom]]
* [[Jewish Schools in the UK]]

== External links ==
* [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk MRJ website]

== Notes ==
<references/>

[[Category:Synagogue movements UK]]
[[Category:Zionist movement UK]]

Liberal Judaism (UK)

2026-11-07T12:38:04Z

Synagogue research: Update operational and burial-scheme status; preserve history and reconcile community listings

{{short description|'''British Liberal Jewish movement whose continuing charity retains its burial scheme following the 2026 operational union'''}}
{{Infobox organization
| name = Liberal Judaism (UK)
| logo = [[File:Liberal Judaism logo from 2025 report.png|200px]]
| type = Jewish religious movement; continuing charitable company
| founded = {{Start date|1902}}
| founder = [[Lily Montagu]]; [[Claude Montefiore]]
| registration_id = 1151090 ([[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]]); company 08281223
| status = Charity continues to operate burial scheme; other operational activities transferred to [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]] on 1 January 2026
| headquarters = The [[Sternberg Centre for Judaism]], 80 East End Road, London N3 2SY (registered office)
| registration = England and Wales
| key_people = [[Edward David Kessler|Dr Edward Kessler]]; [[Amanda McFeeters]] (trustees on the Charity Commission list, checked 6 November 2026)
| website = https://www.liberaljudaism.org
}}
'''Liberal Judaism (UK)''', legally '''Liberal Judaism (ULPS)''', is a British Liberal Jewish movement whose operational activities, except its burial scheme, transferred to [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]] (MPJ) on 1 January 2026. Its own 2025 trustees’ report states that the original charity continues to receive residual legacies and donations and to operate the burial scheme.<ref name="LJAccounts2025">Liberal Judaism (ULPS), [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/08281223/filing-history/MzU0MDI4OTI0NWFkaXF6a2N4/document?format=pdf&download=0 Annual report and financial statements, 31 December 2025], ''Liberal Judaism'', 22 July 2026, pp. 1–10, 15–16, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> This continuing function distinguishes the operational union from dissolution of the original charity.<ref name="LJAccounts2025" /> [[Companies House]] listed company 08281223 as active on 6 November 2026, while the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] continued to list charity 1151090.<ref name="LJCompany">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/08281223 Liberal Judaism (ULPS) (08281223): overview], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="LJGovernance">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5033836/governance Liberal Judaism (ULPS): governance], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

Liberal Judaism and [[The Movement for Reform Judaism]] voted to unite on 18 May 2025; their announcement said further legal formation work remained. Liberal Judaism’s subsequent report dates the operational transfer to 1 January 2026.<ref name="Vote2025">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/history-made-as-progressive-judaism-forms/ History made as Progressive Judaism forms], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', 18 May 2025, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="LJAccounts2025" /> Its historical international and communal relationships included the [[World Union for Progressive Judaism]] and [[LJY-Netzer]], its youth movement.<ref name="LJLinks">Liberal Judaism, [https://www.liberaljudaism.org/resources/links/ Links], ''Liberal Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="LJY">Liberal Judaism, [https://www.liberaljudaism.org/what-we-do/ljy-netzer/ LJY-Netzer], ''Liberal Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== History ==
The [[British Broadcasting Corporation|BBC]]’s historical account traces the British movement to the founding of the [[Jewish Religious Union]] by [[Lily Montagu]] and [[Claude Montefiore]] in 1902. It dates the first Liberal synagogue in Britain to 1911 and the first Liberal rabbinic appointment to 1912, naming [[Israel I. Mattuck]] as the movement’s first rabbi and describing its early character as resembling the radical end of American Reform Judaism.<ref name="BBC2009">BBC, [https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/judaism/subdivisions/liberal_1.shtml Liberal Judaism], ''BBC Religions'', 12 August 2009, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

The [[Union of Liberal and Progressive Synagogues]] was founded in 1944. The BBC’s 2009 account records 11 affiliated synagogues by 1949, 28 by 1991 and 31 by 2005. Those are historical figures, not a current [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]] membership count.<ref name="BBC2009" /> In 2009 the BBC also reported a worldwide membership estimate of around 1.7 million for the [[World Union for Progressive Judaism]] and described it as the largest grouping of Jews; that estimate concerned the international union, not Liberal Judaism’s British membership.<ref name="BBC2009" />

The charitable company was incorporated on 5 November 2012 and registered as charity 1151090 on 5 March 2013. The charity register records funds received from predecessor charity 236590, [[Union of Liberal and Progressive Synagogues]], on 15 April 2016.<ref name="LJCompany" /><ref name="LJGovernance" />

=== Alliance for Progressive Judaism ===
On 17 September 2014 Liberal Judaism and [[The Movement for Reform Judaism]] announced the [[Alliance for Progressive Judaism]], expanding collaboration in student chaplaincy, social justice and social action. The announcement expressly said it was not a merger and that both movements would retain autonomy and distinct identities.<ref name="Alliance2014">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/liberal-and-reform-together-launch-alliance-for-progressive-judaism/ Liberal and Reform together launch alliance for Progressive Judaism], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', 17 September 2014, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

=== Movement for Progressive Judaism ===
[[JCR-UK]] records the intention to unite as announced in April 2023, followed by the parallel votes of 18 May 2025. It dates incorporation of the separate [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]] company, 16501951, to 6 June 2025 and registration of charity 1214734 to 29 August 2025.<ref name="MPJJCR">JCR-UK, [https://jewishgen.org/jcr-uk/Affiliations/Progressive.htm Movement for Progressive Judaism], ''JewishGen'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The May 2025 announcement distinguished the votes from the legal formation work still to be completed.<ref name="Vote2025" />

Liberal Judaism’s own report, approved on 22 July 2026, says that its operational activities, with the sole exception of the burial scheme, transferred to MPJ from 1 January 2026. It says the charity would continue to receive residual legacies and donations and operate that scheme.<ref name="LJAccounts2025" /> MPJ’s January 2026 privacy policy identifies the new company and charity and refers to integration continuing during 2026.<ref name="MPJPrivacy">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/MPJ-Privacy-Policy-2026_v1.1.pdf MPJ Privacy Policy 2026], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', January 2026, p. 1, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

The May 2025 announcement identified Rabbi [[Charley Baginsky]] as Liberal Judaism chief executive and Rabbi [[Josh Levy]] as MRJ chief executive. They signed a joint statement on 1 September 2026 as the co-leads of MPJ.<ref name="Vote2025" /><ref name="MPJLeads2026">Josh Levy and Charley Baginsky, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/statement-on-the-possibility-of-uk-action-on-settlement-expansion/ Statement on the possibility of UK action on settlement expansion], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', 1 September 2026, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> These dated operational titles are distinct from trusteeship or directorship of the continuing Liberal Judaism charity.<ref name="LJAccounts2025" /><ref name="LJTrustees">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5033836/trustees Liberal Judaism (ULPS): trustees], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="LJOfficers">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/08281223/officers Liberal Judaism (ULPS) (08281223): officers], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== Governance and charitable status ==
The [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] identifies Liberal Judaism (ULPS), charity 1151090, as a charitable company linked to company 08281223. Its governing-document summary identifies memorandum and articles incorporated on 5 November 2012, amended on 1 January 2026. The objects are to promote religion by teaching and advancing the beliefs and practices of Liberal and Progressive Judaism generally.<ref name="LJGovernance" /><ref name="LJObjects">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5033836/governing-document Liberal Judaism (ULPS): governing document], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> [[Companies House]] describes it as a private company limited by guarantee without share capital, with an exemption from using “Limited” in its name.<ref name="LJCompany" />

=== Trustees and directors ===
The two registers give different current lists. On 6 November 2026 the [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] listed two trustees, [[Edward David Kessler|Dr Edward Kessler]] and [[Amanda McFeeters]]. [[Companies House]] listed three active directors, adding [[Michele Ruth Saffer]]. The 2025 report, approved in July 2026, also lists Michele Saffer among trustees appointed on 1 January 2026. These are the respective source records, rather than an assertion that the charity-register list and company/report lists are identical.<ref name="LJTrustees" /><ref name="LJOfficers" /><ref name="LJAccounts2025" />
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Charity Commission trustee list, checked 6 November 2026
! Name as recorded !! Appointment !! Status in this register !! Source
|-
| [[Edward David Kessler|Dr Edward Kessler]] || 1 January 2026 || Trustee || <ref name="LJTrustees" />
|-
| [[Amanda McFeeters]] || 10 July 2024 || Trustee || <ref name="LJTrustees" />
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Active company directors, company 08281223, checked 6 November 2026
! Name as recorded !! Appointment !! Resignation !! Source
|-
| [[Edward David Kessler]] || 1 January 2026 || Not recorded; active || <ref name="LJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Amanda McFeeters]] || 10 July 2024 || Not recorded; active || <ref name="LJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Michele Ruth Saffer]] || 1 January 2026 || Not recorded; active || <ref name="LJOfficers" />
|}

=== Selected former company officers ===
The following is a non-exhaustive selection of former officers, using the names, offices and dates recorded by [[Companies House]].<ref name="LJOfficers" />
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Selected former company officers
! Name as recorded !! Office !! Appointment !! Resignation !! Source
|-
| [[Janet Mary Berkman]] || Director || 7 July 2020 || 19 July 2022 || <ref name="LJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Rosalind Clayton]] || Director || 4 July 2017 || 12 July 2023 || <ref name="LJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Alex Kinchin-Smith]] || Director || 6 July 2021 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="LJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Amanda McFeeters]] || Director || 4 July 2017 || 4 July 2021 || <ref name="LJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Leslie Norman Moss]] || Director || 6 July 2021 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="LJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Karen Melanie Newman]] || Director || 1 July 2018 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="LJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Owen Power]] || Director || 7 July 2020 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="LJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Ruth Deirdre Seager]] || Director || 25 July 2013 || 30 October 2023 || <ref name="LJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Paul Richard Silver-Myer]] || Director || 4 July 2019 || 19 July 2022 || <ref name="LJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Amanda McFeeters]] || Secretary || 15 November 2017 || 6 July 2021 || <ref name="LJOfficers" />
|}

== Historical people listings: December 2021 ==
The following names and roles appear in the website capture of 9 December 2021. They are historical listings, not current staff, ministerial postings or offices after the operational union.<ref name="LJPeople2021">Liberal Judaism, [https://web.archive.org/web/20211209032325id_/https://www.liberaljudaism.org/who-we-are/whos-who/ Who’s Who], ''Liberal Judaism'', Wayback capture, 9 December 2021, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

=== Staff ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Staff in the December 2021 capture
! Person !! Role listed !! Source
|-
| Rabbi [[Charley Baginsky]] || Chief Executive Officer || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Shelley Shocolinsky-Dwyer]] || Chief Operating Officer || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Alexandra Gellnick]] || Director of Community Partnerships || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Becca Fetterman]] || Director of Youth || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Ali Simmons]] || Office Coordinator || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Tanya Garfield]] || Senior Administrator || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Janet Manderson]] || Financial Accountant || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Simon Rothstein]] || [[LJ Today]] Editor & Public Relations || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Thomas Rich]] || Fundraising & Events Manager || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Jess Mindel]] || [[LJY-Netzer]] Movement Worker || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Joe Shotton]] || [[LJY-Netzer]] Movement Worker || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| Rabbi [[Anna Posner]] || Student Chaplain || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| Rabbi [[Eryn London]] || Chaplaincy Project Manager || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Shaan Knan]] || Project Manager; Heritage Projects || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Alison Turner]] || Liberal Judaism Archivist || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|}

=== Rabbis ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Rabbinic postings and roles in the December 2021 capture
! Person !! Role / community as then listed !! Source
|-
| [[Rebecca Birk]] || [[Finchley Progressive Synagogue]]; Co-Chair of The [[Conference of Liberal Rabbis and Cantors]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| Dr [[René Pfertzel]] || [[Kingston Liberal Synagogue]]; Co-Chair of The [[Conference of Liberal Rabbis and Cantors]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Charley Baginsky]] || Chief Executive Officer of Liberal Judaism || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Rachel Benjamin]] || [[The Liberal Jewish Synagogue|Liberal Jewish Synagogue]] (St John’s Wood) || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Rebecca Birk]] || [[Finchley Progressive Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Janet Burden]] || (Emeritus) [[Ealing Liberal Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Elana Dellal]] || [[The Liberal Jewish Synagogue]] (St John’s Wood) || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Nathan Godleman]] || The [[South London Liberal Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Aaron Goldstein]] || [[The Ark Synagogue (Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue)|Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| Dr [[Andrew Goldstein]] || (Emeritus) [[The Ark Synagogue (Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue)|Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Roberta Harris-Eckstein]] || [[Eastbourne Liberal Jewish Community]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| Dr [[Frank Hellner]] || (Emeritus) [[Finchley Progressive Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[David Hulbert (rabbi)|David Hulbert]] || (Emeritus) [[East London & Essex Liberal Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| Dr [[Margaret Jacobi]] || [[Birmingham Progressive Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Richard Jacobi]] || East London & Essex Liberal Synagogue || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Leah Jordan]] || [[Kehillah North London]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Yuval Keren]] || [[Southgate Progressive Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Sandra Kviat]] || [[Crouch End Chavurah]] & [[Shir Hatzafon]] (Copenhagen) || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Miri Lawrence]] || Ealing Liberal Synagogue || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Monique Mayer]] || [[Bristol and West Progressive Jewish Congregation|Bristol & West Progressive Jewish Congregation]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| Dr [[Charles H Middleburgh]] || (Emeritus) [[Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Lea Mühlstein]] || [[The Ark Synagogue (Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue)|Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| Dr [[René Pfertzel]] || [[Kingston Liberal Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Anna Posner]] || Student Chaplain, [[Beit Klal Yisrael]], & [[Norwich Progressive Jewish Community|Norwich Liberal Jewish Congregation]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Danny Rich]] || (Emeritus) [[Kingston Liberal Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Tanya Sakhnovich]] || [[Nottingham Liberal Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Mark Solomon]] || [[Sukkat Shalom Edinburgh Liberal Jewish Community (SCIO)|Edinburgh Liberal Jewish Community]] & [[Leicester Progressive Jewish Congregation|Leicester Progressive Jewish Community]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Jackie Tabick]] || [[West Central Liberal Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Elizabeth Tikvah Sarah]] || [[Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue|Brighton & Hove Progressive Synagogue]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Pete Tobias]] || [[The Liberal Synagogue Elstree]] || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Alexandra Wright]] || The Liberal Jewish Synagogue (St John’s Wood) || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Igor Zinkov]] || The Liberal Jewish Synagogue || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|}

=== Board of National Officers ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+ National officers in the December 2021 capture
! Person !! Office listed !! Source
|-
| [[Ruth Seager]] || Chair || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Karen Newman]] || Deputy Chair || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Paul Silver-Myer]] || Treasurer || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Amanda McFeeters]] || Company Secretary || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Ros Clayton]] || Officer; Legal Governance || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Hannah Stephenson]] || Officer; Youth || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Susanne Szal Combe]] || Officer; Education, Complaints and Policies || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Owen Power]] || Officer; Inclusion and Communications || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Janet Berkman]] || Officer; Communities || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Alex Kinchin-Smith]] || Officer; Strategy/Structure and HR || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Leslie Moss]] || Officer; Strategy and Finance || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|}
The capture says that the chair or chairs of the [[Conference of Liberal Rabbis and Cantors]] also sat on the Board of National Officers. It lists [[Amanda McFeeters]] as company secretary; the statutory record separately gives her secretarial appointment as 15 November 2017 to 6 July 2021.<ref name="LJPeople2021" /><ref name="LJOfficers" />

=== President and vice presidents ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+ President and vice presidents in the December 2021 capture
! Person !! Office listed !! Source
|-
| Rabbi Dr [[Andrew Goldstein]] || President || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Simon Benscher]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Monique Blake]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Stanley Fink|Lord Fink]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Louise Freedman]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Sharon Goldstein]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Lucian J. Hudson]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[David Lipman]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Corinne Oppenheimer]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[David Pick]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| Rabbi [[Danny Rich]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Tony Sacker]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Joan Shopper]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Phil Stone]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|-
| [[Beverly Taylor]] || Vice president || <ref name="LJPeople2021" />
|}

== Accounts ==
The following are the continuing Liberal Judaism charity’s pre-transfer annual results, not [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]]’s separate accounts.<ref name="LJAccounts2025" />
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Liberal Judaism (ULPS), charity 1151090: annual accounts (£)
! Year ended 31 December !! Income !! Expenditure !! Net assets / funds !! Source
|-
| 2024 || 1,579,539 || 1,554,949 || 790,545 || <ref name="LJAccounts2025" />
|-
| 2025 || 1,828,320 || 1,841,489 || 777,376 || <ref name="LJAccounts2025" />
|}
The report says that 2025 income included £125,000 of donated legal services. It acknowledges grants supporting [[LJY-Netzer]] from organisations including [[United Jewish Israel Appeal|UJIA]], without giving a separate UJIA amount on that acknowledgements page.<ref name="LJAccounts2025" />

== Relations with Israel ==
A capture of Liberal Judaism’s own explanatory page on 18 November 2023 states:<ref name="LJPolicy2023">Liberal Judaism, [https://web.archive.org/web/20231118145015/https://www.liberaljudaism.org/who-we-are/what-is-liberal-judaism/ What is Liberal Judaism?], ''Liberal Judaism'', Wayback capture, 18 November 2023, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
<blockquote>We affirm a love for the Land of Israel and a strong commitment to the State of Israel. We pray for her people, care about her security and wish to enact the vision of her founders of a Jewish state for all its inhabitants, at peace with its neighbours, democratic and prosperous. We promote a two-state solution, and oppose all boycotts. We also strive to emphasise the value of, and to nurture, the unique symbiosis between Israel and the Diaspora. We combine this vision of Israel with strong support for religious pluralism within the State, and partner with selected organisations within Israel to advance the cause of Progressive Judaism inside Israel and the rights of all Israelis, including those of other faiths and none.</blockquote>

Its retained links page lists the [[World Union for Progressive Judaism]] as its international umbrella organisation. The [[World Zionist Organization]] lists that international union as an affiliated Zionist organisation.<ref name="LJLinks" /><ref name="WZO">World Zionist Organization, [https://www.wzo.org.il/Affiliated-Zionist-organizations International Zionist Organizations], ''World Zionist Organization'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

=== Israel Desk ===
The [[Alliance for Progressive Judaism]] announced [[Carrie Shaw]]’s appointment as Israel Desk coordinator in July 2017. The primary announcements describe a partnership involving Liberal Judaism, [[The Movement for Reform Judaism]], the [[Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism]], [[ProZion]], [[Friends of Leo Baeck Haifa]] and [[Friends of Progressive Judaism]], working on education, engagement and coordination of messages and campaigns. The MRJ announcement describes the role as part-funded by Israel; Liberal Judaism’s announcement says funded by partners in Israel. Neither provides a funding split. These are 2017 appointment descriptions, not confirmation of current staffing in 2026.<ref name="Desk2017">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/alliance-appoints-israel-desk-coordinator/ Alliance appoints Israel Desk coordinator], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', 6 July 2017, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="LJDesk2017">Liberal Judaism, [https://www.liberaljudaism.org/2017/07/alliance-appoints-israel-desk-coordinator/ Alliance appoints Israel Desk coordinator], ''Liberal Judaism'', 4 July 2017, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

=== MPJ’s organisational position ===
[[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]] describes itself as a Zionist movement committed to a Jewish, pluralist and democratic state and to two safe and secure states, Israel and Palestine. Its Israel page describes partnership with the [[Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism]], says that a detailed framework is being developed and welcomes diversity of views among its members.<ref name="MPJIsrael">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/israel/ Our Relationship with Israel], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

== LJY-Netzer ==
[[LJY-Netzer]], Liberal Judaism’s youth movement, dates its origins to the 1947 [[Federation of Liberal and Progressive Jewish Youth Groups]]. Its own historical account describes subsequent names including ULPSNYC and formal affiliation to [[Netzer Olami]] in 1993, followed by adoption of the LJY-Netzer name in 2004.<ref name="LJYHistory">LJY-Netzer, [https://web.archive.org/web/20170920223755/http://www.ljy-netzer.org/history/ History], ''LJY-Netzer'', Wayback capture, 20 September 2017, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The same historical account describes a 1988 proposal for affiliation and concerns among the adult movement’s leadership that commitment to Liberal Judaism might be overshadowed by Zionism; it dates the eventual affiliation to 1993.<ref name="LJYHistory" />

The retained Liberal Judaism programme page describes LJY-Netzer as a branch of Netzer Olami, the worldwide Progressive Zionist youth organisation, offering activities for ages 8–23. It names day events, youth clubs, residentials, summer camp Machaneh Kadimah, Europe Tour (Kayitz), Israel Tour and a Shnat Netzer gap year for 18-year-olds. Its spring camp is called Machaneh Shamayim on that page. The page also retains event notices from 2023; it is not a dated prospectus for every 2026 programme.<ref name="LJY" />

The retained page describes professional movement workers based at Liberal Judaism’s central-London head office, together with volunteers. Companies House now lists the registered office at the [[Sternberg Centre for Judaism]] in Finchley.<ref name="LJY" /><ref name="LJCompany" /> The page identifies four ideological pillars: Liberal Judaism, Progressive Zionism, Tikkun Olam and Youth Empowerment.<ref name="LJY" />

== Members and communities ==
The [[British Broadcasting Corporation|BBC]]’s dated historical figures and the [[Institute for Jewish Policy Research]]’s survey measure different things. The latter’s 2016 “Liberal” strand included congregations affiliated to Liberal Judaism and the unaffiliated [[Belsize Square Synagogue]]; it counted 6,514 member households, 8.2% of UK synagogue household membership, across 42 synagogues. Those figures are not a current count of MPJ member communities.<ref name="BBC2009" /><ref name="JPR2017">Donatella Casale Mashiah and Jonathan Boyd, ''Synagogue membership in the United Kingdom in 2016'', Institute for Jewish Policy Research and Board of Deputies of British Jews, July 2017, pp. 11–12, 36–37 (supplied PDF, accessed 6 November 2026).</ref>

The table below compares Liberal-heritage community names with [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism|MPJ]]’s current directory and [[JCR-UK]]’s heritage designations. MPJ’s directory describes “around 80” communities across the UK and Ireland but does not itself publish the old article’s claimed 28-UK-Liberal breakdown. A directory listing does not establish a congregation’s current charity or legal identity.<ref name="MPJDirectory">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/find-a-community/ Find a Community], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MPJJCR" />

JCR-UK identifies [[The Ark Synagogue (Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue)|The Ark Synagogue]], [[Beit Klal Yisrael]], [[Crawley Jewish Community]], [[Crouch End Chavurah]], [[Kehillah North London]], [[Lincolnshire Jewish Community]] and [[South Bucks Jewish Community]] as Liberal heritage, also corroborated by Liberal Judaism’s own retained community list. Conversely, [[South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community]], listed by MPJ as South Hampshire Progressive Community, is marked Reform by JCR-UK and expressly describes MRJ membership on its own website; it is not included as Liberal here.<ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="LJCommunities">Liberal Judaism, [https://www.liberaljudaism.org/where-we-are/communities/communities-list/ Communities List], ''Liberal Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="SouthHampshire">South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community, [https://southhantsreform.wordpress.com/ About SHRJC and how to contact us], ''South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Liberal-heritage directory listings, checked 6 November 2026
! Community !! Geographic scope !! Qualification !! Sources
|-
| [[Bedfordshire Progressive Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Beit Klal Yisrael|Beit Klal Yisrael (London)]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Birmingham Progressive Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Bristol and West Progressive Jewish Congregation]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Crawley Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Crouch End Chavurah]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation]] || Ireland || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Ealing Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[East London & Essex Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Eastbourne Liberal Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Finchley Progressive Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Kehillah North London]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Kent Liberal Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Kingston Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Leicester Progressive Jewish Congregation]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Lincolnshire Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Mosaic Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Norwich Progressive Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Nottingham Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Peterborough Liberal Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Reading Liberal Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[South Bucks Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Southgate Progressive Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Stevenage Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Suffolk Liberal Jewish Community|Suffolk Liberal Jewish Community (Ipswich)]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sukkat Shalom Edinburgh Liberal Jewish Community (SCIO)|Sukkat Shalom (Edinburgh Liberal Jewish Community)]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[The Ark Synagogue (Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue)|The Ark Synagogue (previously Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue)]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[The Liberal Jewish Synagogue|The Liberal Jewish Synagogue (St John’s Wood)]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[The Liberal Synagogue Elstree]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[South London Liberal Synagogue|The South London Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Three Counties Liberal Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Wessex Liberal Jewish Community|Wessex Liberal Jewish Community (Bournemouth)]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[York Liberal Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|}

=== Other historical or associated communities ===
The retained Liberal list separately names [[Oxford Liberal Jewish Services]] as developing or associated. JCR-UK calls an Oxford community [[Oxford Progressive Group]], while MPJ’s directory uses [[Oxford Jewish Congregation]]; these source labels are not treated here as proof of one legal identity.<ref name="LJCommunities" /><ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="MPJDirectory" />
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Other historical, associated or differently scoped listings
! Community !! Source-specific status / qualification !! Sources
|-
| [[Manchester Liberal Jewish Community]] || Classified Liberal in the 2016 survey; absent from the retrieved current MPJ directory; present operating status not established || <ref name="JPR2017" /><ref name="MPJDirectory" />
|-
| [[West Central Liberal Synagogue]] || Classified Liberal in the 2016 survey; JCR-UK now lists the chavurah as unaffiliated; absent from MPJ directory || <ref name="JPR2017" /><ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="MPJDirectory" />
|-
| [[Shir Hatzafon]] (Copenhagen) || JCR-UK lists as an affiliated community abroad; not a UK/Ireland directory entry || <ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Beit Ha’Chidush]] (Amsterdam) || Developing/associated on retained Liberal list; JCR-UK lists as an affiliated community abroad || <ref name="LJCommunities" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Oxford Liberal Jewish Services]] || Developing/associated on retained Liberal list; do not silently equate the different Oxford labels || <ref name="LJCommunities" /><ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="MPJDirectory" />
|}

== Programmes ==
[[Progressive Jewish Students]] is described on the retained Liberal Judaism website as offering educational, religious, rabbinic and pastoral support. The page distinguishes external advocacy from internal support: it describes combating antisemitism, supporting student election candidates, engaging with media, fostering dialogue and advocating Progressive voices within Orthodox-normative student life. It also describes egalitarian prayer spaces, connections with local communities, educational sessions and resilience workshops.<ref name="Students">Liberal Judaism, [https://www.liberaljudaism.org/what-we-do/students/ Progressive Jewish Students], ''Liberal Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The youth programme is [[LJY-Netzer]], described above.<ref name="LJY" />

== Affiliations ==
The retained Liberal Judaism links page describes the following as sister or partner organisations, and separately lists schools. This records the website’s descriptions, not proof that each relationship or legal membership continued unchanged after the operational union.<ref name="LJLinks" />

=== Progressive Judaism ===
*[[World Union for Progressive Judaism]]
*[[European Union for Progressive Judaism]]
*[[Netzer Olami]]
*[[Union for Reform Judaism]] (North America)
*[[The Movement for Reform Judaism]] (UK)
*[[Leo Baeck College]]
*[[Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism|The Israel Movement for Progressive Judaism]]
*[[Israel Religious Action Centre]]
*[[The Friends of Progressive Judaism in Israel & Europe]]
*[[ProZion]]/[[Arzenu UK]]

=== Partner Organisations ===
*[[Citizens UK]]
*[[The Faith and Belief Forum|The Faith & Belief Forum]]
*[[Council of Christians and Jews]]
*[[Mitzvah Day 365]]
*[[Board of Deputies of British Jews]]
*[[Jewish Leadership Council]]
*[[Jewish Book Service]]

=== Jewish Schools ===
*[[Akiva School]]
*[[Clore Shalom School]]
*[[Clore Tikva School]]
*[[JCoSS School]]
*[[Mosaic Jewish Primary School]]

== Contact ==
[[Companies House]] gives the registered office as The [[Sternberg Centre for Judaism]], 80 East End Road, London, United Kingdom N3 2SY. The retained Liberal Judaism website footer still gives The [[Montagu Centre]], 21 Maple Street, London W1T 4BE, and telephone 020 7580 1663. These are the respective source listings rather than a claim that the older website footer has been updated to the company’s current registered office.<ref name="LJCompany" /><ref name="LJCommunities" />

== See also ==
* [[The Movement for Progressive Judaism]]
* [[The Movement for Reform Judaism]]
* [[Synagogues in the United Kingdom]]
* [[Jewish Schools in the UK]]

== External links ==
* [https://www.liberaljudaism.org Official retained website]
* [https://www.twitter.com/liberaljudaism Official Twitter/X link listed by the movement]

== Notes ==
<references/>

[[Category:Synagogue movements UK]]
[[Category:Zionist movement UK]]

The Movement for Reform Judaism

2026-11-07T12:35:37Z

Synagogue research: Update operational and legal status; preserve history and reconcile Reform heritage listings

File:Liberal Judaism logo from 2025 report.png

2026-11-07T12:33:21Z

Synagogue research: Logo of Liberal Judaism. Cropped from the unpaginated cover (PDF page 1) of Liberal Judaism (ULPS), Annual Report and Financial Statements, 31 December 2025, approved 22 July 2026: https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/08281223/filing-history/MzU0MDI4OTI0NWFkaXF6a2N4/document?format=pdf&download=0. Accessed 6 November 2026. Cropped from scanned cover; no explicit reuse licence identified; copyright presumed retained by the organisation/rightsholder. For factual id...

== Summary ==
Logo of Liberal Judaism. Cropped from the unpaginated cover (PDF page 1) of Liberal Judaism (ULPS), Annual Report and Financial Statements, 31 December 2025, approved 22 July 2026: https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/08281223/filing-history/MzU0MDI4OTI0NWFkaXF6a2N4/document?format=pdf&download=0. Accessed 6 November 2026. Cropped from scanned cover; no explicit reuse licence identified; copyright presumed retained by the organisation/rightsholder. For factual identification, not endorsement.

File:Movement for Reform Judaism logo from 2025 report.png

2026-11-07T12:32:51Z

Synagogue research: Logo of The Movement for Reform Judaism. Cropped from the unpaginated cover (PDF page 1) of The Movement for Reform Judaism, Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2025 (approved 22 July 2026): https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07431950/filing-history/MzU0MDI4OTMwNGFkaXF6a2N4/document?format=pdf&download=0. Accessed 6 November 2026. Cropped from scanned cover; no explicit reuse licence identified; copyright presumed ret...

== Summary ==
Logo of The Movement for Reform Judaism. Cropped from the unpaginated cover (PDF page 1) of The Movement for Reform Judaism, Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2025 (approved 22 July 2026): https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07431950/filing-history/MzU0MDI4OTMwNGFkaXF6a2N4/document?format=pdf&download=0. Accessed 6 November 2026. Cropped from scanned cover; no explicit reuse licence identified; copyright presumed retained by the organisation/rightsholder. For factual identification, not endorsement.

The Movement for Progressive Judaism

2026-11-07T12:28:16Z

Synagogue research: Clarify operational union and continuing predecessor charities; update governance and directory scope

{{short description|'''Progressive Jewish umbrella movement operating across the UK and Ireland since January 2026'''}}
{{Infobox organization
| name = The Movement for Progressive Judaism
| logo = [[File:The Movement for Progressive Judaism logo.png|200px]]
| type = Synagogue movement; registered charity and company limited by guarantee
| founded = {{Start date|2026|01|01}}
| registration_id = 1214734 ([[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]]); company 16501951
| headquarters = The [[Sternberg Centre for Judaism]], 80 East End Road, London N3 2SY
| registration = England and Wales
| area_served = United Kingdom and Ireland
| key_people = [[Edward David Kessler|Dr Edward Kessler]] (chair); [[Josh Levy|Rabbi Josh Levy]] and [[Charley Baginsky|Rabbi Charley Baginsky]] (co-leads)
| website = https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/
}}
'''The Movement for Progressive Judaism''' (MPJ) is the umbrella movement formed by the operational union of [[The Movement for Reform Judaism]] (MRJ) and [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Liberal Judaism]] on 1 January 2026. It is a separate charitable company, incorporated on 6 June 2025 as company 16501951 and registered on 29 August 2025 as charity 1214734.<ref name="MPJAccounts2025">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/16501951/filing-history/MzU0NzU5NTc5NWFkaXF6a2N4/document?format=pdf&download=0 Trustees’ report and financial statements for the period ended 31 December 2025], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', 9 September 2026, pp. 1–5; filed 25 September 2026, accessed 7 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MPJCompany">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/16501951 The Movement for Progressive Judaism (16501951): overview], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 7 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MPJRegister">Charity Commission for England and Wales, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5265589/full-print The Movement for Progressive Judaism: full register record], ''Register of Charities'', accessed 7 November 2026.</ref>

The operational union did not dissolve the predecessor charities. MRJ’s 2025 report says that it continues to receive residual legacies and donations; Liberal Judaism’s separately issued report says that its burial scheme remains outside the operational transfer and that its charity also continues to receive residual legacies and donations.<ref name="MRJAccounts2025">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07431950/filing-history/MzU0MDI4OTMwNGFkaXF6a2N4/document?format=pdf&download=0 Trustees’ annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2025], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', 22 July 2026, pp. 1–5, 7–11, 16–18, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="LJAccounts2025">Liberal Judaism (ULPS), [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/08281223/filing-history/MzU0MDI4OTI0NWFkaXF6a2N4/document?format=pdf&download=0 Annual report and financial statements, 31 December 2025], ''Liberal Judaism'', 22 July 2026, pp. 1–10, 15–16, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> MPJ’s own first report independently describes the 1 January 2026 transfer of funds, assets, liabilities and activities, with the Liberal burial-scheme exception.<ref name="MPJAccounts2025" />

MPJ describes itself as the largest synagogal body in the UK and Ireland by number of communities, representing around 30% of synagogue-affiliated Jews. Its directory describes “around 80” communities across the UK and Ireland; that geographic scope is not a count of UK congregations alone.<ref name="MPJAbout">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/what-is-the-movement-for-progressive-judaism/ What is The Movement for Progressive Judaism?], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 7 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MPJDirectory">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/find-a-community/ Find a Community], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 7 November 2026.</ref> Its co-leads are Rabbi [[Josh Levy]] and Rabbi [[Charley Baginsky]], who signed its 1 September 2026 statement in those roles.<ref name="MPJLeads2026">Josh Levy and Charley Baginsky, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/statement-on-the-possibility-of-uk-action-on-settlement-expansion/ Statement on the possibility of UK action on settlement expansion], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', 1 September 2026, accessed 7 November 2026.</ref>

== History ==
[[The Movement for Reform Judaism]] and [[Liberal Judaism (UK)|Liberal Judaism]] announced an intention to unite in April 2023, according to [[JCR-UK]]. The member communities voted for unification at parallel extraordinary general meetings on 18 May 2025.<ref name="MPJJCR">JCR-UK, [https://jewishgen.org/jcr-uk/Affiliations/Progressive.htm Movement for Progressive Judaism], ''JewishGen'', accessed 7 November 2026.</ref><ref name="Vote2025">The Movement for Reform Judaism, [https://www.reformjudaism.org.uk/history-made-as-progressive-judaism-forms/ History made as Progressive Judaism forms], ''The Movement for Reform Judaism'', 18 May 2025, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref> The May announcement distinguished the vote from the further work of legal formation; MPJ’s account says that more than 95% voted in favour at each meeting.<ref name="Vote2025" /><ref name="MPJAbout" />

The new company was incorporated on 6 June 2025 and the separate charity registered on 29 August 2025. Its first report describes the period to 31 December 2025 as dormant, with no transactions; the operational transfer occurred on 1 January 2026.<ref name="MPJCompany" /><ref name="MPJRegister" /><ref name="MPJAccounts2025" /> These are separate dates for the vote, corporate formation, charity registration and operational union, rather than one legal-completion date.<ref name="Vote2025" /><ref name="MPJAccounts2025" />

== Affiliation and governance ==
[[JCR-UK]] records membership of the [[World Union for Progressive Judaism]] from formation. It describes 77 extant predecessor communities at the time of the union, two overseas affiliates in the Netherlands and Denmark, and subsequent additions and changes; this is a differently dated and scoped description from MPJ’s current UK-and-Ireland directory.<ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="MPJDirectory" />

The [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] identifies MPJ as an umbrella or resource body operating throughout England and Wales, Scotland and Ireland. Its governing document is the memorandum and articles incorporated on 6 June 2025, as amended that day. Its objects are to promote, advance and foster Judaism and charitable purposes furthering the welfare of Jewish people in the UK, Israel or elsewhere in the world.<ref name="MPJRegister" /> [[Companies House]] lists the company as active and as limited by guarantee without share capital, with exemption from using “Limited” in its name.<ref name="MPJCompany" />

== Charity, officers and accounts ==
The registered institutional address is The [[Sternberg Centre for Judaism]], 80 East End Road, London N3 2SY.<ref name="MPJRegister" /><ref name="MPJCompany" /> The [[Charity Commission for England and Wales|Charity Commission]] lists 13 trustees. The table records its names and appointment dates.<ref name="MPJRegister" />
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Charity trustees listed on 7 November 2026
! Name as recorded !! Appointment !! Role !! Source
|-
| [[Edward David Kessler|Dr Edward Kessler]] || 6 June 2025 || Chair || <ref name="MPJRegister" />
|-
| [[Richard Maurice Emile Reuben|Richard Reuben]] || 1 January 2026 || Trustee || <ref name="MPJRegister" />
|-
| [[Lev Benson Taylor|Rabbi Lev Taylor]] || 1 January 2026 || Trustee || <ref name="MPJRegister" />
|-
| [[Jack Morrie Lubner|Jack Lubner]] || 1 January 2026 || Trustee || <ref name="MPJRegister" />
|-
| [[Jonathan Clive Lewis|Jonathan Lewis]] || 1 January 2026 || Trustee || <ref name="MPJRegister" />
|-
| [[Paul David Freedman|Rabbi Paul Freedman]] || 1 January 2026 || Trustee || <ref name="MPJRegister" />
|-
| [[Tommer Shalom Davis Spence|Tommer Spence]] || 1 January 2026 || Trustee || <ref name="MPJRegister" />
|-
| [[Tanya Chanelle Anita Townsend|Tania Townsend]] || 1 January 2026 || Trustee || <ref name="MPJRegister" />
|-
| [[Nigel John Cole|Nigel Cole]] || 16 June 2025 || Trustee || <ref name="MPJRegister" />
|-
| [[Noeleen Cohen]] || 16 June 2025 || Trustee || <ref name="MPJRegister" />
|-
| [[Michele Ruth Saffer|Michele Saffer]] || 16 June 2025 || Trustee || <ref name="MPJRegister" />
|-
| [[Paul Anthony Langsford|Paul Langsford]] || 6 June 2025 || Trustee || <ref name="MPJRegister" />
|-
| [[Karen Melanie Newman|Karen Newman]] || 6 June 2025 || Trustee || <ref name="MPJRegister" />
|}

=== Company officers ===
[[Companies House]] lists 13 active directors and four resigned directors. Company-office dates are recorded separately from the charity register.<ref name="MPJOfficers">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/16501951/officers The Movement for Progressive Judaism (16501951): officers], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 7 November 2026.</ref>
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Directors of company 16501951, checked 7 November 2026
! Name as recorded !! Appointed !! Resigned / status !! Source
|-
| [[Noeleen Cohen]] || 16 June 2025 || Active || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Nigel John Cole]] || 16 June 2025 || Active || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Paul David Freedman]] || 1 January 2026 || Active || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Edward David Kessler]] || 6 June 2025 || Active || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Paul Anthony Langsford]] || 6 June 2025 || Active || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Jonathan Clive Lewis]] || 1 January 2026 || Active || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Jack Morrie Lubner]] || 1 January 2026 || Active || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Karen Melanie Newman]] || 6 June 2025 || Active || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Richard Maurice Emile Reuben]] || 1 January 2026 || Active || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Michele Ruth Saffer]] || 16 June 2025 || Active || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Tommer Shalom Davis Spence]] || 1 January 2026 || Active || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Lev Benson Taylor]] || 1 January 2026 || Active || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Tanya Chanelle Anita Townsend]] || 1 January 2026 || Active || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Nicholas Paul Bendeth Aleksander]] || 16 June 2025 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Penelope Beral]] || 16 June 2025 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Rachel Crasnow]] || 16 June 2025 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|-
| [[Colin Eimer]] || 25 September 2025 || 1 January 2026 || <ref name="MPJOfficers" />
|}

The charity register spells [[Tanya Chanelle Anita Townsend|Tania Townsend]]’s forename “Tania”, while the company officers page records “Tanya Chanelle Anita Townsend”. The company officers page records [[Colin Eimer]]’s appointment as 25 September 2025, whereas MPJ’s first report gives 16 June 2025; both record resignation on 1 January 2026.<ref name="MPJRegister" /><ref name="MPJOfficers" /><ref name="MPJAccounts2025" />

=== Accounts ===
MPJ’s first company filing, approved on 9 September 2026 and filed on 25 September, covers the dormant period ending 31 December 2025. It says that no transactions took place and reports net assets of £0. It is not an account of MPJ’s operational income or expenditure during 2026.<ref name="MPJAccounts2025" /><ref name="MPJFilings">Companies House, [https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/16501951/filing-history The Movement for Progressive Judaism (16501951): filing history], ''Find and update company information'', accessed 7 November 2026.</ref>
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Company 16501951: first financial period
! Period ended !! Income / expenditure disclosure !! Net assets (£) !! Source
|-
| 31 December 2025 || No transactions; separate income and expenditure statement not presented || 0 || <ref name="MPJAccounts2025" />
|}
The charity register states that accounts and annual returns are not yet required for the newly registered charity; this does not mean that no company accounts have been filed.<ref name="MPJRegister" /><ref name="MPJFilings" /> The predecessor MRJ and Liberal Judaism annual results are separate entities’ pre-transfer accounts, not MPJ income.<ref name="MRJAccounts2025" /><ref name="LJAccounts2025" />

== Relations with Israel ==
MPJ’s organisational policy page describes it as “a Zionist movement – committed to there being a Jewish, pluralist and democratic State in the historic homeland of Israel”. It supports “two safe and secure states – Israel and Palestine” and describes work alongside the [[Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism]]. The same page says that a detailed framework is still being formulated and explicitly welcomes a diversity of views among its members.<ref name="MPJIsrael">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/israel/ Our Relationship with Israel], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', accessed 7 November 2026.</ref>

On 25 February 2026 MPJ’s co-leads opposed a [[Knesset]] bill that would give the [[Chief Rabbinate of Israel]] sole control of the [[Western Wall]], including its egalitarian section, in occupied [[East Jerusalem]].<ref name="UNJerusalem">United Nations, [https://www.un.org/unispal/document/auto-insert-209755/ Yearbook of the United Nations 1997: Middle East (excerpts)], ''United Nations'', “Occupied territories” and General Assembly resolution ES-10/2 (25 April 1997), accessed 7 November 2026.</ref> Their statement described the bill as a threat to religious pluralism and urged opposition to it.<ref name="MPJKotel">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/progressive-leaders-speak-out-against-kotel-control-bill/ Progressive leaders speak out against Kotel control bill], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', 25 February 2026, accessed 7 November 2026.</ref>

On 10 June 2026 Rabbi [[Josh Levy]] and Rabbi [[Charley Baginsky]], writing as MPJ co-leads, welcomed targeted UK sanctions against those financing, enabling or committing settler violence in the occupied [[West Bank]]. They opposed settlement expansion and annexation, distinguished settlements from Israel, and stated that the movement did not support [[Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions|BDS]] or broad boycotts.<ref name="MPJSanctions">Josh Levy and Charley Baginsky, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/statement-welcoming-targeted-sanctions-against-settler-violence/ Statement welcoming targeted sanctions against settler violence], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', 10 June 2026, accessed 7 November 2026.</ref>

In their 1 September 2026 statement they described the [[E1]] settlement project in the occupied West Bank as “part of an explicit project, led by [[Bezalel Smotrich]] and [[Itamar Ben-Gvir]], to establish permanent Israeli control and make a viable Palestinian state impossible”. They stated: “We defend Israel’s security, condemn [[Hamas]] and reject BDS”, while opposing occupation, dispossession and settler violence. They called for any government measures to be lawful, targeted and effective, and to distinguish Israel from settlement activity.<ref name="MPJLeads2026" />

== Member communities ==
MPJ’s directory, retrieved on 7 November 2026, contains 77 community headings: 76 in the UK and one in Ireland. Its introduction says “around 80” communities across the UK and Ireland, without publishing a Reform/Liberal breakdown. The tables distinguish directory listings and predecessor heritage; they are not a certification of present legal membership or charitable identity.<ref name="MPJDirectory" /> [[JCR-UK]] supplies the heritage designations and separately identifies overseas affiliates and unaffiliated Progressive congregations.<ref name="MPJJCR" />

JCR-UK marks [[The Ark Synagogue (Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue)|The Ark Synagogue]], [[Beit Klal Yisrael]], [[Crawley Jewish Community]], [[Crouch End Chavurah]], [[Kehillah North London]], [[Lincolnshire Jewish Community]] and [[South Bucks Jewish Community]] as Liberal heritage. Conversely, [[South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community]], called South Hampshire Progressive Community in MPJ’s directory, describes MRJ membership on its own website and is marked Reform by JCR-UK.<ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="SouthHampshire">South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community, [https://southhantsreform.wordpress.com/ About SHRJC and how to contact us], ''South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="MPJDirectory" />

MPJ’s directory still uses [[Harlow Jewish Community]], whereas its 4 February 2026 announcement records the formation of [[Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community]] from Harlow and [[Chelmsford Jewish Community]]. [[Makor Hayim]] remains directory-listed, but its 2025 report announced expected closure by 31 May 2026; that prospective statement does not establish completion or an asset recipient.<ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="Harlow2026">The Movement for Progressive Judaism, [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/harlow-and-chelmsford-merge-to-create-new-combined-community/ Harlow and Chelmsford unite and create new combined community], ''The Movement for Progressive Judaism'', 4 February 2026, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref><ref name="Makor2025">Makor Hayim, [https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search?p_p_id=uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet&p_p_lifecycle=2&p_p_state=maximized&p_p_mode=view&p_p_resource_id=%2Faccounts-resource&p_p_cacheability=cacheLevelPage&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_objectiveId=A19191068&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_mvcRenderCommandName=%2Faccounts-and-annual-returns&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=5157701&_uk_gov_ccew_onereg_charitydetails_web_portlet_CharityDetailsPortlet_priv_r_p_organisationNumber=5157701 Trustees’ report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2025] ''Makor Hayim'', pp. 2–3, accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>

=== Reform-heritage directory listings ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Reform-heritage directory listings; checked 7 November 2026
! Community !! Heritage !! Directory / affiliation qualification !! Source
|-
| [[Alyth|Alyth (North Western Reform Synagogue)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Beth Shalom Reform Synagogue|Beth Shalom Reform Synagogue, Cambridge]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Bournemouth Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Bradford Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Brighton and Hove Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Bromley Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Cardiff Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Cheshire Reform Congregation|Menorah Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Coventry Jewish Reform Community]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Darlington Hebrew Congregation]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Edgware and Hendon Reform Synagogue|Edgware & Hendon Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Finchley Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Glasgow Reform Synagogue SCIO|Glasgow Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Harlow and Chelmsford Jewish Community|Harlow Jewish Community]] || Reform || Reform predecessor; merged Harlow and Chelmsford community announced February 2026 || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="Harlow2026" />
|-
| [[Isle of Wight Jewish Society]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Kehillat Kernow – The Jewish Community of Cornwall]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Kol Chai - Hatch End Jewish Community|Kol Chai – Hatch End Jewish Community]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Liverpool Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Maidenhead Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Makor Hayim]] || Reform || Listed in directory; closure announced for May 2026, completion not established || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="Makor2025" />
|-
| [[Manchester Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Milton Keynes & District Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Mosaic Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Ne've Shalom – Hull Reform Synagogue|Ne’ve Shalom]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Newcastle Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[North West Surrey Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue|Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue (previously SWESRS)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Radlett Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Seven Hills Shul|Seven Hills Shul (Sheffield)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sha'arei Shalom (North Manchester Reform Congregation)|Sha’arei Shalom]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sha'arei Tsedek North London Reform Synagogue|Sha’arei Tsedek (North London Reform Synagogue)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sinai Synagogue (Reform)|Sinai Synagogue, Leeds]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[South Hampshire Reform Jewish Community]] || Reform || Listed by MPJ as South Hampshire Progressive Community || <ref name="SouthHampshire" /><ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="MPJDirectory" />
|-
| [[Southend & District Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Southport & District Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sukkat Shalom Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Swindon Jewish Community]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Thanet & District Reform Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Tikvah Chadasha (Brentwood Reform Synagogue)]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Totnes Jewish Community]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Wimbledon and District Synagogue|The Wimbledon Synagogue]] || Reform || Listed in MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|}

=== Liberal-heritage directory listings ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Liberal-heritage directory listings, checked 7 November 2026
! Community !! Geographic scope !! Qualification !! Sources
|-
| [[Bedfordshire Progressive Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Beit Klal Yisrael|Beit Klal Yisrael (London)]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Birmingham Progressive Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Bristol and West Progressive Jewish Congregation]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Crawley Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Crouch End Chavurah]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation]] || Ireland || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Ealing Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[East London & Essex Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Eastbourne Liberal Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Finchley Progressive Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Kehillah North London]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Kent Liberal Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Kingston Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Leicester Progressive Jewish Congregation]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Lincolnshire Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Mosaic Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Norwich Progressive Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Nottingham Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Peterborough Liberal Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Reading Liberal Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[South Bucks Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Southgate Progressive Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Stevenage Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Suffolk Liberal Jewish Community|Suffolk Liberal Jewish Community (Ipswich)]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Sukkat Shalom Edinburgh Liberal Jewish Community (SCIO)|Sukkat Shalom (Edinburgh Liberal Jewish Community)]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[The Ark Synagogue (Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue)|The Ark Synagogue (previously Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue)]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[The Liberal Jewish Synagogue|The Liberal Jewish Synagogue (St John’s Wood)]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[The Liberal Synagogue Elstree]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[South London Liberal Synagogue|The South London Liberal Synagogue]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Three Counties Liberal Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Wessex Liberal Jewish Community|Wessex Liberal Jewish Community (Bournemouth)]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[York Liberal Jewish Community]] || UK || Listed in MPJ directory; Liberal heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" />
|}

=== Oxford and differently scoped listings ===
MPJ’s directory uses [[Oxford Jewish Congregation]], whereas JCR-UK uses [[Oxford Progressive Group]] and the retained Liberal community list uses [[Oxford Liberal Jewish Services]]. These source labels do not establish that the entire cross-communal congregation and the different Progressive service/group names are one legal entity.<ref name="MPJDirectory" /><ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="LJCommunities">Liberal Judaism, [https://www.liberaljudaism.org/where-we-are/communities/communities-list/ Communities List], ''Liberal Judaism'', accessed 6 November 2026.</ref>
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Other source-specific listings
! Community !! Source-specific status !! Sources
|-
| [[Oxford Jewish Congregation]] || UK directory entry; the directory does not state predecessor heritage || <ref name="MPJDirectory" />
|-
| [[The West London Synagogue of British Jews|West London Synagogue of British Jews]] || Reform heritage; JCR-UK records MRJ membership suspended in 2020 and lapsed February 2023; currently listed as unaffiliated and absent from MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="MPJDirectory" />
|-
| [[West Central Liberal Synagogue]] || JCR-UK lists the chavurah as unaffiliated; absent from MPJ directory || <ref name="MPJJCR" /><ref name="MPJDirectory" />
|-
| [[Beit Ha’Chidush]] (Amsterdam) || Overseas affiliate in JCR-UK; not a UK/Ireland directory entry || <ref name="MPJJCR" />
|-
| [[Shir Hatzafon]] (Copenhagen) || Overseas affiliate in JCR-UK; not a UK/Ireland directory entry || <ref name="MPJJCR" />
|}

== See also ==
* [[The Movement for Reform Judaism]]
* [[Liberal Judaism (UK)]]
* [[Friends of Progressive Judaism in Israel and Europe]]
* [[Synagogues in the United Kingdom]]

== External links ==
* [https://progressivejudaism.org.uk/ Official website]

== Notes ==
<references/>

[[Category:Synagogue movements UK]]
[[Category:Zionist movement UK]]
[[Category:Jewish charities in the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Charities in England and Wales]]

File:Finchley-reform-synagogue-logo.png

2026-11-06T23:26:13Z

Synagogue research: Logo of Finchley Reform Synagogue, used to identify the organisation on its Powerbase profile. Source: https://images.shulcloud.com/1566/logo/1600431798.img (retrieved 6 November 2026). Copyright/licence status not established; no licence is claimed.

== Summary ==
Logo of Finchley Reform Synagogue, used to identify the organisation on its Powerbase profile. Source: https://images.shulcloud.com/1566/logo/1600431798.img (retrieved 6 November 2026). Copyright/licence status not established; no licence is claimed.