Shabbat UK 2018 at Meade Hill Shul
Shabbos started with a thought-provoking and humorous Introduction by special guest Rabbi YY Rubinstein of New York to a full Shul.  We had a very lively Kabbolas Shabbos with our friends from Heaton Park Shul which was led by the Travelling Chassidim’s Chazzan R’ Arye Blum and his choir.  Later at a packed Seuda, the young friendly families of the Travelling Chassidim sat among the Community, enjoying the meal together and breaking down barriers and stereotypes.  In between lively singing and dancing, Rabbi YY spoke in his inimitable style, with the crowds laughing and crying, and deeply inspired by his message.

Shabbos morning brought another inspiring tefillo with the accompaniment of the choir and a thought-provoking sermon from Rabbi YY.  Members had never experienced a davening of such beauty and warmth.  A wonderful seuda followed, again inspired by Rabbi YYs humour and pathos, and the singing led by the Chassidim.  Then two of those present,an ex Pastor and an ex Seventh Day Adventist shared emotional words , describing their present  journey towards conversion.  Their message inspired everyone how lucky we are to have been born into the precious gifts of Torah and the Shabbos.

After a lively Mincha, the Community were again inspired , this time by Rabbi Aviv Bar Ilan’s heartfelt message of growth and of continuing the inspiration further. Rabbi Prijs shared stories of the power of Shabbos to connect Jews to their roots , and thanked the selfless Chassidim for giving up their Shabbos to inspire others.

And the climax of the Shabbos was the beautiful candlelit Havdoloh with the Travelling Chassidim. As Yissy Shadmi played spirited music, even the most reluctant people were swept up by the incredible ruach.  Shtreimels and kashketels changed heads , and time was suspended in circles of pure unity between Yidden.  It was an unforgettable Shabbos for all those who experienced it.

Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis visits our Shul.

110th Anniversary Gala   Click here to see some wonderful feedback and photos to what was an amazing evening.