[Previous entry: "ANNUAL BOARD MEETING 3RD APRIL 2004"] [Main Index] [Next entry: "UPJ CONFERENCE"]

04/14/2005 Entry: "Jeffery Rose dinner"

EUROPEAN REGION HONOURS PAST CHAIRMAN JEFFERY ROSE

On Sunday 3rd April, the European Region of the World Union for Progressive Judaism held a dinner in honour of Jeffery Rose, a former chairman of the European Region and Vice-President of the World Union to mark the occasion of his 80th birthday last December. The dinner also honoured his wife Joyce, who together with Jeffery have both made an outstanding contribution to Progressive Jewish life throughout the world

Over 100 people from around the world gathered at North Western Reform Synagogue, Alyth Gardens, where Jeffery has been a lifelong member. During his illustrious career, he has been chairman of the Synagogue and is currently its President. He has also been chairman of the Reform Synagogues of Great Britain and the Leo Baeck College. “I never sought office but I have always answered the call. I dislike vacuums and like working in the Jewish community”.

Tributes were paid by Ruth Cohen, President of the World Union, Rabbi Tony Bayfield, Chief Executive of the RSGB, Rabbi Professor Jonathan Magonet Principal of the Leo Baeck College, and Raymond Goldman past chairman of North Western Reform Synagogue.

A special tribute was paid by Rabbi Kati Kelemen from Szim Shalom in Budapest. Jeffery had been particularly involved with establishing this Progressive community. In 1995 he and colleague Ernest Bello had donated silverware for the Torah Scroll which was designed by Hungarian silversmith Peter Vladimir.

At Jeffery Rose’s request, funds raised at this event will go towards sponsoring individuals and student rabbis from developing congregations throughout mainland Europe to attend the World Union for Progressive Judaism’s 32nd International Convention in Moscow in July.

Gordon Smith, chairman of the European Region presented Jeffery and Joyce with an inscribed silver salver.