Kenton United Synagogue

2016 2017 2019

Event:

ShabbatUK at Kenton comprised a good balance of learning and socialising, thanks to the contributions of guest speaker Rabbi Michael Pollak, who was warmly received, and the communal lunch that brought members together. Rabbi Pollak led a learning session on Friday night in Rabbi Black’s home, and imparted his knowledge further at a Shabbat Kodesh programme that followed Shabbat morning prayers, and then again in the afternoon. Participants saw out Shabbat with an upbeat musical Havdalah.

Evaluation from Irene Leeman:

“We had a wonderful scholar in residence in Rabbi Michael Pollak, and we had a wonderful Shabbat ruach with Zemirot at meals, led by our own Rabbi Black and members of the community. The good mixture of learning, relaxing and resting well over Shabbat maintained a Shabbat atmosphere and the sense of a united community. Attendees enjoyed listening to our speaker so much that they would like to invite him back – maybe a learning series could be on the cards.”

Participant Feedback:

“It was good to see so many experiencing more of Shabbat than they would normally do.”

“What an excellent guest speaker!”

“It was pleasing to see a slightly higher than usual attendance and the guest Rabbi, Michael Pollak, gave an enjoyable and insightful sermon.”

“The day was enhanced by the several talks given by our scholar in residence, the delicious food served, the warm, friendly, and relaxed atmosphere and by the musical Havdalah.”

“As a regular shul-goer it was lovely to be able to stay at shul after davening, the Shabbat Kodesh programme and Kiddush to be with so many members of the community for lunch. Looking forward to next year!”

Event:

The programme was successful in that it attracted members to come as a mixture of social and educational activity. It was a programme throughout Shabbat, so it was varied and provided a communal atmosphere of Shabbat. It met the objectives of in-reach within the community as we tried to attract members who come to shul infrequently.

I personally know of two couples who became more observant after last year’s Shabbat UK, and they still are, so that is significant.

Evaluation from Irene Leeman:

Our members particularly enjoy communal shabbatons, and such events unify the community. The name Shabbat UK is now a memorable recurring feature of the calendar.

Participant Feedback:

“Nice to mix with friends and neighbours at this event.”

“All enjoyable and the talks stimulating!”

“It was enjoyable, informative and interesting in a socially pleasant atmosphere.”

Event:

Kenton were joined by the Travelling Chassidim who helped to create a beautiful atmosphere over ShabbaUK, greatly enhancing the services through traditional Chassidic song and dance. A highlight was the Shabbat afternoon Q & A session, where the community posed questions to the Chassidim, leading to intimate insights and understandings. The climax was the moving and meaningful Havdalah followed by a spectacular concert for everyone.

Evaluation from Irene Leeman:

Our guests were so friendly and transmitted the love and enjoyment of a whole Shabbat – all the meals and services with beautiful singing. We shared stories and experiences, sang and danced and knew straight away that we had made good friends, who will come back again, for more. The Chassidic families also enjoyed being with us as much as we did with them, and there was a great spirit of togetherness.

Participant Feedback:

“I enjoyed learning about the Chassidim and their way of life and that we must not judge people by perception or stereotyping. We are all Jews together”

“I attended both the Friday night and Shabbat. Both were excellent stimulating and very spiritually uplifting. We hope the travelling Chassidim come to Kenton again!”