New synagogue merger after finance and attendance concerns
Waltham Forest Hebrew Congregation and Wanstead and Woodford Synagogue have voted overwhelmingly to merge after worries about finances and poor attendance.
At specially-convened meetings, members opted by significant majorities to combine forces, with 87 votes to 27 at Waltham Forest and 80 votes to seven at Wanstead and Woodford.
It comes only two week Clayhall and NewburyPark shuls voted to form Redbridge United Synagogue after 18 months consultation, the way for the first merger of two United Synagogue communities in over a decade.
Honorary Officers at WalthamForest said they had the “full backing” of the United Synagogue, adding: “The key factors in reaching this decision have been to ensure the long term viability and future of both communities.”
The new merged shul is likely to be called Forest United Synagogue with elections held for the new Board in May 2016.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
