Mary Reid

In 1967 a group of Progressive Jews from the Kingston and Surrey area decided to set up their own congregation. For some years they met in Tudor Hall, but then got the chance to buy a redundant school in Long Ditton. Although they moved outside the borough boundary they still kept the Kingston name, and today they marked their fortieth anniversary with an inclusive and celebratory service.

Actually I was at the synagogue only three months ago for the Civic Service, and this time I was quite taken aback - the sanctuary had been enlarged and the ark moved to a different spot, making the place look completely different. It is light and airy, with a flexible layout as you can see in this photo.

So congratulations and best wishes to Trainee Rabbi Charley Baginsky, Rabbi Danny Rich who acts as her mentor, and Paul Levene the Chair of the Synagogue.