Big gains buoy small US congregations

THE INAUGURAL United Synagogue small communities conference brought together delegates from 18 congregations to discuss common issues and aspirations.

“One of the main themes to emerge from a very successful day was the need to energise communities and to attempt to make a difference,” said Sutton Synagogue’s Paul Sarfaty, who chaired the event with Shenley’s Phil Diamond.

“It was encouraging that at the end of the day, many of the delegates were asking when the next event would take place.”

There were productive discussions on increasing provision for Friday night family events at smaller US shuls.

In his keynote speech, Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis gave examples of communities in the UK and abroad which had been revived after energising the local populace.

“It was truly inspirational speech,” Mr Sarfaty said. “It really captured the mood of the event.”