International friends’ lunch date
REPRESENTATIVES OF the UK’s Jewish and Indian communities took part in an Indian-themed event prior to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in London this week.
The Commonwealth Big Lunch was organised by the Indian Jewish Association (IJA) and the Commonwealth Jewish Council, as part of a series of informal gatherings taking place across the world at which representatives from different communities have the chance to meet and celebrate their connections.
Those enjoying the food included Lord Mendelsohn and Lord Polak from the Jewish community, and Lord Gadhia and Vinu Bhattessa from the Indian community.
Zaki Cooper, a trustee of the IJA and an organiser of the event, said: “Our two communities have so much in common, not least enjoying a good chat over food. We realise that our common wealth lies in our values, and pride in our heritage alongside commitment to Britain. Old friends met again and new relationships were forged.”
The Chief Rabbi expressed support for the lunches on Sunday, sending his “very best wishes to all those ‘breaking bread’ with one another.
“In Jewish tradition, when we make a blessing over bread, we thank God, ‘who brings forth bread from the earth’. Yet, as we know, God Himself does not provide the bread. He provides the grain and the natural conditions from which people are able to make bread.
“The blessing teaches us the powerful lesson that the Almighty expects us to meet Him halfway.
“If we take responsibility for investing the effort into growing the crops, processing them into ingredients and then taking the time to mix and bake them, only then will we be rewarded with the staple food for our physical sustenance.”