Maidenhead Synagogue welcomes key figures for Civic Shabbat

Maidenhead Synagogue welcomed civic, political and faith leaders to its Civic Shabbat on Saturday morning.

The initiative, which was created by the Board of Deputies of British Jews (BoD), offers communities the chance to experience Shabbat, which is also known as the Sabbath, to foster a better understanding of how it is observed and celebrated by the Jewish community.

Shabbat is the Jewish day of rest and starts on Friday evening, continuing through Saturday.

For some, the Shabbat sees them attend the synagogue and pray.

Others spend time resting at home, sharing meals with their family, going out or stepping away from everyday pressures of life.

There is no single way to observe Shabbat and the diversity of the practice is a pivotal part of Jewish life.

Saturday’s service was led by Rabbi Dr René Pfertzel and was designed to be ‘both authentic and accessible’.

The event saw Rabbi René welcome the congregation and guests and guide them through the traditions and prayers of Shabbat.

He provided explanations along the way, allowing guests to understand its meaning and significance.

As part of the service, attendees were welcomed into the rhythm of Shabbat prayer, song and reflection.

Guests were also invited to take a closer look at the Torah scrolls as Rabbi René explained their significance, holiness and centralised role within Jewish life.

The service featured moments of quiet as well as communal singing, and shared learning which allowed guests to experience Shabbat as a lived tradition.

Kiddush (a blessing which is traditionally recited over wine), followed the service and guests enjoyed light refreshments.

Dignitaries attending included Royal Borough mayor Cllr Mandy Brar, Maidenhead MP Josh Reynolds, Slough MP Tan Dhesi, and Windsor MP Jack Rankin.

Father Jeremy Harris of All Saints Church was also in attendance alongside Imam Abid Hashmi and Zia Mahiudin of Maidenhead Mosque, chair of the Windsor and Maidenhead Community Forum (WAMCF) Nimi Johal, chief executive of the BoD Michael Wegier, and other interfaith and community representatives.

Through the event, Rabbi René and Maidenhead Synagogue looked to deepen understanding, build relationships, and strengthen connections across the borough.

Maidenhead Synagogue has members from Maidenhead, Slough, Windsor, Beaconsfield, Reading and beyond and functions as both a place of worship and a community hub.

Under Rabbi René’s leadership this includes supporting vulnerable people through cooking initiatives, helping those who are homeless, conducting environmental projects and on-going interfaith co-operation.

Rabbi René said he was ‘very pleased’ with how the event went and spoke of the importance of building relationships with people.

Sapir Tal, Under 35 Observer for Maidenhead Synagogue to the BoD, said: “[It was] amazing. It’s exactly what I’d hoped it to be.

“An insight into what we do and what the start of the weekend is for us. But also bringing guests also elevates that, and we want to welcome people into the synagogue.”

Maidenhead MP Josh Reynolds, said: “The warmth of the welcome, the beauty of the traditions, and the strength of community spirit were truly moving.

“Moments like these remind us how much richer our town is for its diverse faith communities coming together.”

Windsor MP Jack Rankin, said: “I was very pleased to join the Civic Shabbat and to stand alongside our local Jewish community in a moment of reflection, unity and shared values alongside fellow Parliamentarians from across the political spectrum and other community leaders.”

Nimi Johal, chair of WAMCF, said: “The service was conducted with great warmth and gave us wonderful insight to Shabbat.

“It was inspiring to see representatives from different faiths and civic dignitaries united in a shared message of love, inclusion, and community harmony.”

Michael Wegier, chief executive of BoD, said: “I was delighted to attend the Civic Shabbat service.

“The Rabbi and whole community could not have been more welcoming.

“To see local political, religious and civic leaders all come together to support the Jewish community directly what was needed and is a model for communities all over the country.”