Hull Hebrew Congregation joins the United Synagogue

Hull Hebrew Congregation has become a member of the United Synagogue, the latest chapter in a community story that can be traced back over three centuries.

The decision, which was approved unanimously on Tuesday, brings the community’s 100 members into the US.

Discussions about an affiliation began many months ago but were delayed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Philip Daniels, president of Hull Hebrew Congregation, said his community looked forward to “the mutual support of being part of a network of communities.”

He said: “How the United Synagogue can assist us has become increasingly evident as discussions regarding our joining have progressed. The Hull community anticipates a positive future within the United Synagogue.”

Michael Goldstein, President of the United Synagogue, added: “Hull has a long and proud Jewish history dating back to the eighteenth century.

“We look forward to learning from and working with Hull Hebrew Congregation as they begin their exciting new chapter with the United Synagogue.”

Jewish life has been represented in Hull and East Yorkshire for over 250 years, with many moving to the region at the beginning of the 1900s, when thousands fled oppression in Eastern Europe.

Hull Hebrew Congregation was formed in 1994 when several Orthodox synagogues in the city were amalgamated.