United Synagogue

Today we celebrate Yom Ha'atzmaut and Israel's 78 years of independence! יום עצמאות שמח

We are delighted that @willesdencem has been officially recognised as a Significant Cemetery by the Association of Significant Cemeteries in Europe (ASCE). You can read more about it here: theus.org.uk/community-news… Or view the listing on the ASCE website here: tr.ee/brWOXa

Today is Yom HaZikaron, where we remember the soldiers who lost their lives defending the state of Israel and the victims of terror. May their memories be an eternal blessing. Am Yisrael Chai

Kenton community returned to their shul this morning for shacharit, Director of Community Life, Barnaby Nemko joined the minyan to show support.

We will not be deterred! Despite last night's attack on Kenton United Synagogue, the community came together this morning for a well-attended shacharit service at a different location. Their rabbi, Rabbi Yehuda Black, had this message to share.

Firebombing of Kenton United Synagogue "We are yet again deeply saddened by the arson attacks that have taken place this weekend, including the attack on Kenton United Synagogue, one of our own communities. "A synagogue is not just a building, it is a place of worship, community and – theoretically – safety. To target it in this way is a deeply disturbing act that strikes at the heart of Jewish life. Thank God no one was hurt and we are grateful to the emergency services and Community Security Trust for their swift response today. "The Government and local police forces have responded well to the recent appalling attacks including Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation and Hatzola ambulances, but it is clear that more must be done to prevent these attacks occurring at all. The Prime Minister should declare publicly what the Jewish community has known for some time: this is an epidemic of anti-Jewish hate. "The Kenton community and the wider United Synagogue will not be deterred. Despite their shul being closed, just this morning, led by Rabbi Yehuda Black, the community held a busy shacharit minyan in a different location. They look forward to being back in their shul home very soon. "We will not be intimidated, and we will remain strong and united in the face of hatred." Saul Taylor President United Synagogue

Meet Juliette, Chair of Potters Bar and Brookmans Park Synagogue, who shares what makes it a warm, close‑knit community built on care and connection. Read more about their much‑loved Eco Garden, wide range of community‑led projects and how Juliette has seen the community grow here: theus.org.uk/community-news… #ShulThroughOurEyes #PottersBar #JewishCommunity #UnitedSynagogue

"We are deeply saddened and alarmed by the attempted arson at Finchley Reform Synagogue. The incident is being treated by police as an antisemitic hate crime, and sadly, such attacks are becoming all too frequent. An attack on any synagogue is an attack on us all. At a time like this, we stand united across our communities in solidarity and resolve. Jewish life will continue to thrive and we will not be intimidated. The community must stand together against vile antisemitism." Saul Taylor President, United Synagogue

We know that there are people in our community who are thinking seriously about Aliyah, and for professionals and founders, the practical questions tend to follow quickly. This online webinar from Asserson is the final session in a three-part series, and focuses on how to make Aliyah while continuing to run a UK business. The discussion covers governance, tax residence, management and risk, with insights from founders and advisers who have done exactly that. No need to have attended the earlier sessions. Aliyah & Your UK Business Wednesday 29 April, 12pm Sign up here: us06web.zoom.us/webinar/regist… *Sponsored content.

From Auschwitz, where he is with @MOTL_UK_, Richard Verber reflects on Yom HaShoah. Inspired by hearing October 7 survivor Agam Berger play a violin with its own Holocaust history, he reflects on bringing new meaning to places shaped by destruction.

Today is Yom HaShoah, where we remember the six million Jewish people who were murdered during the Holocaust. May their memories be a blessing. "For the dead and the living, we must bear witness." - Elie Wiesel

🚶Gentle Walks: Jewish Life, Heritage and Hidden Stories. A short, accessible walk designed for those who prefer a gentler pace, offering a relaxed way to explore the cemetery’s rich heritage. ❗Sunday 19 April, 11 am willesdenjewishcemetery.org.uk/events/gentle-…

☀️😎 We are excited to announce that we are launching Camp Shemesh, our inclusive, supportive summer camp experience with personalised care, adapted activities and a clear routine. Ideal for children aged 11–14 who may benefit from a smaller, structured environment and extra support, it provides a welcoming pathway into Tribe camps. Email rsteinberg@theus.org.uk to register interest.

Last month, The Jewish Chronicle's Jamie Shapiro visited the US Chesed Hub food bank as part of their new series, 'A day in the life of'. Read what he had to say about donning the purple apron and packing food parcels for Jewish families in need: thejc.com/community/i-vo…

Parenting neurodiversity: a journey of many tears thejc.com/community/pare…

15 participants from 14 US communities recently completed our second successful ‘Lead Together’ programme, to develop future senior lay leaders. Completed in March 2026, sessions featured senior figures and expert insights on leadership, strategy and community development. You can read more about it here: theus.org.uk/community-news…

Chag kasher v'sameach from the United Synagogue! All Pesach timings can be found at: theus.org.uk/resources/shab…

Looking for some Pesach inspiration? We have two Pesach special editions of the Daf Hashavua for you to read: theus.org.uk/resources/daf-…

Less speed, more haste? What the Exodus tells us thejc.com/judaism/less-s…