New synagogue looks for members to join congregation (From Borehamwood Times)

New synagogue looks for members to join congregation

10:58am Thursday 19th November 2009

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A NEWLY formed Sephardi Synagogue is looking for members to join their congregation in Elstree this week.

The Elstree and Borehamwood Rambam Sephardi Synagogue, based in Allum Hall, Allum Lane, will be holding their third Shabbat service on Saturday at 9am.

Their first Shabbat service, held in September, attracted over 70 adults and children and was followed by a well-attended Yom Kippur service and a second Shabbat service at the end of October.

The synagogue has received the support and guidance of the Spanish & Portuguese Jews' Congregation, which is the oldest Jewish community in this country. Sephardi Jews follow the customs and traditions of the Jews who lived in the Iberian Peninsula (modern Spain and Portugal) before their expulsion in the late fifteenth century.

Although the various Sephardi communities developed their own traditions, most of these communities use a similar Siddur (prayer book) and nusach (choice of prayers, order of prayers, text of prayers and melodies used in the singing of prayers) which are distinct from those used by Ashkenazi Jews.

Daniel Couceiro, from Furzehill Road, Borehamwood, was one of the founders of the synagogue.

He said: “We felt that the time was right to start a Sephardi minyan in the area, but were nevertheless surprised at the number of people who came to the services, among them several Ashkenazis seeking an alternative to existing services in the area.

“If the monthly services prove popular then weekly gatherings will be introduced.

"We can then start thinking about acquiring our own premises. We are a young congregation, with lots of children. Looking ahead, we may even want to start our own nursery school and primary school."

For further information on Elstree and Borehamwood Rambam Sephardi Synagogue’s services and activitie visit www.rambam.org.uk

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