A new group of Liberal Jews has formed in Durham, and recently held the first Shabbat service in Durham since the last orthodox synagogue closed in 1955.
“We wanted to reach out to the descendants of the Orthodox synagogues in Bishop Auckland, Stockton-on-Tees, Durham, West Hartlepool, Sunderland and Middlesbrough which closed as the collieries and shipping industries dwindled,” explained spokesperson Hava Fleming. “Both Jewish people and their non-Jewish partners and children are equally welcome,” she said.
“In Durham,” continued Hava Fleming, “we hope to engage not only in religious services and study, but also in community life, and social action. We are keen to engage with interfaith partners both in the wider community and amongst the universities and hospitals, both staff and students.”
The next Shabbat service will be held on 6th August. Anyone interested should contact the Durham & NE Liberal Jewish Community. Contact details can be found here in the JSCN community pages.
So pleased that there is a new community in Durham.
I would love to attend some of your services. Can you email me the date of your next service please?
Good luck!
Interesting to revive the vibrant Jewish communities of the North East. My grandfather was from Sunderland and I shall be staying in Durham from the 1st of August. Unfortunately I’m leaving on the 6th so I shan’t be at the service. Good luck!