Maureen Lipman leads Liberal Jewish Chanukah celebration

Dame Maureen Lipman was the keynote speaker at the Liberal Jewish Synagogue (LJS) multi-faith Chanukah celebration. 

Now in its 13th year, the annual event brings together faith leaders from London’s different religions – including the Christian, Muslim, Hindu and Jain communities – to celebrate Chanukah and light the menorah.

Around 150 adults and children attended the event at the LJS, in St John’s Wood, with a similar number from all around the world watching live on YouTube.

Senior Rabbi of the LJS and Liberal Judaism President, Rabbi Alexandra Wright, said: “This event brings together a microcosm of this great city we all live in. We are all representatives of different faiths, races, nations, cultures, languages and so much more. The fact that we can stand or sit together, celebrating our diversity and inclusivity – marking this festival of Chanukah, the festival of lights – is a tribute to all who have joined us.”

Dame Maureen Lipman, who was accompanied by family members including her 10-year-old granddaughter, reflected on the meaning of the word ‘light’ and how it is central to Chanukah. She also brought laughter as she told stories of her life and career, including meeting her late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II on the set of Coronation Street.

Reflections were then given by Revd Graham Buckle (St Stephen’s Westminster), Imam Mehmed Stublla (British Albanian Muslim community), Ashwin Mehta (Jain community), Smita Oza (Neasden Temple) and Mehri Niknam MBE (National Council of Imams and Rabbis).

After the service, long-term LJS members and Liberal Judaism Vice Presidents Bob Kirk BEM and Ann Kirk BEM gave guests a tour of the synagogue, before everyone enjoyed traditional Chanukah latkes and doughnuts.