Welcome to our shul! This week: New West End Synagogue

Synagogue: New West End Synagogue

Rabbi:

Rabbi Dr Moshe Freedman

When was it founded?

1879.

How big is the congregation?

There are 465 members.

What do you offer families?

There is a wide and varied programme, ranging from monthly childrens’ services, parenting and adult education sessions, activities on the chagim (such as a Purim musical this year, based on Disney songs, succah decorating, Simchat Torah activities), activities for teenagers and the warmest welcome for young families.

We also intend to start a Sunday morning programme for under-fives – watch this space. With a new rabbi and rebbetzin who have four young children, together with a very active core of families, the synagogue is very welcoming to children and their parents.

Is there a cheder? 

We have a joint cheder with Holland Park Synagogue, with 36 children aged from five onwards.

Tell us some interesting facts about the synagogue

Although known for its beauty (it is a Grade-I listed building), musical tradition (the Mosaic Voices are the NWES’s full-time professional choir), and outward formality, the synagogue is among the warmest imaginable. Visitors and newcomers are welcomed and treasured.

What exciting events do you have planned? 

• On Saturday, 21 March, we are holding a Teen Movie night for teenagers – details of which will be announced.
• On Sunday, 22 March, there is Brain Food with Rabbi Malcolm Herman: Understanding God in a world of pain, at 8pm. For more information, email families@newwestend.org.uk.
• On Friday, 3 April, and Saturday, 4 April, we are hosting our NWES communal sedarim.
• On 18 April, there is Spirits and Spirituality with Rabbi Freedman, part of weekly sessions in the rabbi’s home after kiddush, offering wisdom and a drink before Shabbat lunch.
• On 3 June, there is a guild trip to see High Society at The Old Vic.

What are the highlights of the Shabbat morning kiddush?

There is a fantastic spread every week, organised by our kiddush committee, with the help of our active guild members, with biscuits, cakes, whisky, and wine. Special kiddushim are frequent, with cholent, or ice cream, or fruit, or bridge rolls for chagim and simchas.

Shul website and contact number: www.newwestend.org.uk; 020 7229 2631.