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Liberal Judaism

Liberal Judaism
This is a Liberal congregation, a member of the Liberal Judaism movement (the Union of Liberal and Progressive Synagogues). Liberal Judaism is the growing edge of Judaism, and in 2002 celebrated the centenary of its establishment in the UK. It reveres Jewish tradition and seeks to preserve all that is good in the Judaism of the past. But it also lives in the present. It desires that Judaism shall be an active force for good in the lives of Jewish individuals, families and communities today. Liberal Judaism values truth above tradition, sincerity above conformity, and human needs above legal technicalities. It is the Judaism of the past in process of becoming the Judaism of the future.

  • Liberal Judaism holds truth above tradition but with reverence for the past.

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  • Liberal Judaism is always willing to re-examine and re-evaluate beliefs, practices and values; there is scope to modify, innovate and experiment while still cherishing and honouring the richness of our heritage.

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  • Liberal Judaism maintains sincerity above conformity; it is unafraid to engage in discussion with others; it looks for sane, humane answers to find meaning in life.

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  • Liberal Judaism values human needs above legal technicalities; is accessible to all Jews and champions equality and inclusivity.

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  • Liberal Judaism is honest, spiritually rewarding and intellectually satisfying; it gives opportunity for creativity, passion and concern.

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  • Liberal Judaism has an inclusive attitude to Jewish identity, embracing all who have a good claim to be regarded as Jewish and welcoming sincere converts.

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  • Liberal Judaism proclaims and practises total sexual equality.

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  • Liberal Judaism guides individuals and encourages them to follow their enlightened consciences.

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  • Liberal Judaism places a higher emphasis on ethical conduct than ritual observance

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Liberal Judaism publishes a series of leaflets that describe the Liberal Jewish stance on a number of different issues. These are reproduced here.

WHERE WE STAND

These pamphlets are produced by the Rabbinic Conference of Liberal Judaism.


MESSAGE FROM THE RABBI
Whether you are a visitor to London or someone looking for a Jewish spiritual home, WCLS would be delighted to welcome you. Why not join us for our unique 3 pm Shabbat service and get to know some new friends?

Shalom u'vrachah, Peace and blessings, Rabbi Janet

NOTABLE DATES

We regret that our synagogue is able to seat only a small number of visitors. If you will be visiting the London area during the High Holy Days, please contact Liberal Judaism's headquarters at www.liberaljudaism.org for advice.

EREV ROSH HASHANAH Monday, 29 Sept 6:30 for 7 pm
ROSH HASHANAH MORNING Tuesday, 30 Sept, 10:30 for 11 pm

Then Shabbat Shuvah, as normal at 3pm

KOL NIDRE Wednesday, 8 Oct 6:30 for 7 pm
YOM KIPPUR Thursday, 9 Oct 10:30 for 11, lasting until 7 pm or so
SUKKOT Tuesday, 14 Oct 3:00 pm

West Central Liberal Synagogue
The Montagu Centre, 21 Maple Street
London W1T 4BE
Phone: (020) 7636 7627; Fax: (020) 7631 9838; Email: wcls@liberaljudaism.org