Watching the State Opening of Parliament reminds me of my feelings when first elected Vice-Chair of BES@Croxdale last May. I was excited yet apprehensive, with a touch of imposter syndrome following my predecessor Benjy Arnold’s long tenure.
However, I found a warm, welcoming community of all ages and backgrounds. My goal was to make Croxdale inclusive for everyone, gaining new volunteers along the way. It’s heartening to see people of diverse ages and observance levels mingling on Shabbat mornings.
We’ve expanded our offerings despite space constraints, including alternative services like Limmud, Hashkama, and Reflections. Our children’s services are thriving, with highlights like the new Family Service launched with Katie Matlin, Francesca Saltman, and Rabbi Chapper. Monthly birthday breakfasts and token swaps add to the fun.
Youth provision was another priority, with weekly activities and a refurbished hangout room for teenagers. We’re lucky to have volunteers like Melanie Arazi and Louise Shama as part of our wider youth team.
I’m immensely proud of our community’s support for Israel since 7 October. From the Yom Ha’atzmaut BBQ to weekly Reflections sessions and hosting Orit Meir, mother of hostage Almog Meir Jan, we’ve shown our solidarity. The head of WZO UK even called Borehamwood the most Zionist community in the country!
None of this would be possible without our army of volunteers, though we always welcome more help. If you’d like to get involved, please do speak to me. I’m grateful for everyone’s support and warmth. My children often complain that I’m the last to leave kiddush, but I cherish these moments of connection.
Let’s appreciate our wonderful community and strive to go from strength to strength.
Shabbat Shalom,
Lara Lipsey
BES Vice Chair, Croxdale