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 150th Anniversary celebrations.
On Shabbat 8th July 2000, we were delighted to have celebrated our
150th Anniversary in the presence of the Chief Rabbi, Professor
Jonathan Sacks and other invited guests of honour.
Following personal invitations to members and friends of Central, and advertisements
in the Jewish press, an estimated 400 congregants filled the shul.
The highlight of the service was the dynamic, moving, and
inspirational sermon delivered by the Chief Rabbi. He spoke
of the wonderful history and importance Central has had to
Anglo-Jewry over the last 150 years and how some of the
most important families in Anglo-Jewry history have been involved
at Central Synagogue from the Rothschild family who laid the foundation
stone at the original site of the shul, through to the Wolfson family whose
involvement with Central Synagogue is now moving into its fourth generation.
The service was led by Rabbi Barry Marcus and Chazan Jonathan Murgraff.
Our Emeritus Rabbi, Cyril Shine and our retired Chazan, Reverend
Simon Hass took part in the service as a fond reminder of
Central Synagogue through the 1960's, 70's, and 80's.
Our guests included Mr Eldred Tabachnik, Head of the Board of
Deputies; Councillor Michael Brahams,the Lord Mayor of Westminster;
and Mr Amiram Magid, the Minister Plenipotentiary of the Israeli Embassy.
Perhaps though, the most important guests were the congregants
who attended.
Many whose own families had been involved at Central Synagogue in
years gone by. Some who had entered the doors for the first time in
over 30 years.
Many congregants were there for the first time - attracted perhaps
by the special occasion. Others perhaps, by the promise of an
excellent Kiddush provided by the Ladies Guild, which
certainly did not disappoint.
The Kiddush was preceded by the children of Central Synagogue who
serenaded the congregation with their version of
Hinei M'tovo Ma'Naim.
A team has been set up at Central, to publish a book to commemorate
this special milestone in our history. If you have any special
memory of a Wedding, Barmitzvah or other Simcha at the Central we
want to hear from you. If you have photos or other memorabilia that
you would like included in the book, or a story or
anecdote, please contact the Shul office by letter, fax, or e-mail.
Here's to the next 150 years at Central.
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