Our History

Finchley Reform Synagogue (originally called the Woodside Park and District Reform Synagogue) was established with just 20 families.

The community were kept informed by a newsletter which subsequently became the Tree of Life

Beame affiliated to the Reform Synagogues of Great Britain

High Holy Day Appeal raised money to build a well in West Bengal – the first of many appeals to raise money for those in need.

FRS employs its first Rabbi – Henry Goldstein

Saw the arrival of Rabbi Jeffrey Newman whose commitment and passion ensured that the synagogue became the cutting edge of Reform Judaism in the UK.

Launch of FRS’s innovative Friday Group – learning and training for B’nei Mitzvah

A Soviet Jewry committee was established which formed links with Refuseniks.

FRS Charity group was formed

FRS kindergarten opened its doors to under 5s in the local Jewish community.

New Connexions started, a group set up by Rabbi Howard Cooper to explore spirituality.

Hospitality lunches were offered to the homeless.

FRS was twinned with Kol HaNeshama, a Reform community in Jerusalem.

Established Outreach and the Czech Scroll Group.

Jeffrey Newman retired as Principal Rabbi.

Rabbi Miriam Berger appointed Principal Rabbi.

Cantor Zöe Jacobs, first Reform cantor in the UK appointed to FRS. Launch of Kochavim, an innovative education programme for 5 to 11 year olds. FRS twinned with the Jewish community in Polotsk, Belarus.

Involvement with London Citizens.

50^th anniversary celebrations.