Cardiff Reform sees record number of conversions

The graduation at the Sternberg Centre marked the culmination of months of learning and shed light on Cardiff’s growing Jewish community.

Rabbi Loreggian said: "The day was a proud one for all of us at Cardiff Reform. [All the graduates] worked hard, and it was a pleasure to see every candidate do so well."

Cardiff executive committee member Eddie Cawston said: "Our teachers and leaders guided and supported them with care and sincerity. For the new members, it was both a personal affirmation and a communal celebration, one that reinforces the values at the heart of Progressive Judaism. Mazel tov to all involved."

Cardiff Reform Synagogue, originally called Cardiff New Synagogue, was founded in 1948 primarily by people who had fled the Nazis, many of whom had been part of the Liberal Jewish movement in Europe.

Initially holding services in the Temple of Peace, part of Cardiff Civic Centre, in 1952, the congregation moved into a Methodist chapel, which it completely renovated.

Describing itself as “a warm and welcoming, vibrant community”, Cardiff Reform holds services throughout the year and celebrates Jewish holidays, often inviting civic dignitaries to attend its Chanukah candle-lighting ceremonies. It also provides a calendar of social events.