Historic synagogue suspends services due to low turnout

Liverpool’s oldest shul has suspended services due to low congregant turnout.

The 147-year-old Liverpool Hebrew Congregation on Princess Road made the announcement last week. Writing to the local community, senior warden Saul Marks said the shul has seen “a number of disappointing attendances” since reopening last month.

After repeatedly struggling to get a minyan, with half the numbers during Yom Kippur and Rosh Hashanah compared to pre-pandemic levels, he announced the closure.

Marks said two shul officials “Edward Marks and Neil Nevitt now feel that the mental and physical strain of attending on foot, combined with their responsibilities during the services, is no longer sustainable on a regular basis.”

It said last Shabbat and Simchat Torah had been cancelled due to low numbers, but Shemini Atzeret on Tuesday was due to take place.

“Given that it appears that too few members and officiants are both willing and able to attend on a weekly basis, all services after shemini atzeret will be suspended until further notice.”

“The charitable trustees are scheduled to meet in the first week of October and discussions will be held as to how frequently services can be provided.

“I am sure you will all agree that this is an exceedingly sad state of affairs and will therefore do your best to attend when services resume.”