As I write, we’re making the final preparations for Rosh Hashanah, preparing to mobilise our own army. This unit is very special, made up of people who give of themselves, their time and their energy to make our community what it is. BES Volunteers literally make the magic happen, not just for Rosh Hashanah but for everything that happens week in and week out.
I promise you; nobody takes this for granted, we are totally reliant on volunteers to deliver our services, programmes and make BES the community it is. A huge thank you for all you are about to do. Just last Sunday, Rabbi Alex and Eva Chapper held a volunteer reception for those helping our BES Care team (see picture). If you would like to help over Yom Tov, please do speak to one of the honorary officers or email the shul, we’ll find something for you (we’re looking for help with the Succah and deliveries – see below).
As we prepare for Rosh Hashana, our thoughts turn to Israel and those who will not join their family and friends for Rosh Hashana. I was privileged to meet three of the Nova survivors this week and to watch their incredible stories of love, faith, community and heroism at a screening of the BBC documentary Surviving October 7th: We Will Dance Again. I urge you all to watch it, to share it widely so that the truth, the real story of that horrific day will be seen by as many people as possible. It airs at 9pm on BBC2 on Thursday 26th September and will be on iPlayer too. A massive thank you to our member Gail Garcia for all the hard work she has done on this programme.
I hope and pray for peace and a much happier and healthier New Year, Shana Tova.
Shabbat Shalom,
Lara Lipsey
Vice Chair Croxdale
