Islington Jewish community to dedicate new Torah scroll to much-loved lawyer

According to the Law Society Gazette, he was “always willing to step up to the mark”, share his knowledge or provide a helping hand, right up until the end.

Julian’s partner, Judy Ramjeet, told the JC that it meant “so much” to have the Torah scroll dedicated in his name, a man whose faith “meant everything to him”.

“We are really going all out for this dedication ceremony,” she said. “It will be an amazing, joyous affair, and it is only being made possible by the many wonderful people who supported the fundraising effort for the scroll. I will never forget their kindness. It would also have touched Julian’s heart.”

Fundraisers have included music events and stand-up comedy nights, featuring Chabad Islington’s Rabbi Mendy Korer as both compere and the headline act.

Rabbi Mendy Korer (Photo: Chabad Islington)[Missing Credit]

In the 19th and early 20th century, the north London district boasted multiple synagogues and hundreds of Jewish families as residents.

Rabbi Korer said the dedication was “a key milestone for the revival of a thriving Jewish community in Islington”.

Sunday’s festivities will include a lively procession, accompanied by klezmer music and optional dancing, through closed-off city streets.

As the scribe completes the scroll’s final letters, guests will enjoy entertainment, including a classical music concert, an opera singer and comedians.

There would also be speeches and a delicious “bagel buffet”, said Rabbi Korer. As is tradition, the honour of writing or sponsoring the final letters of the Torah will be auctioned off on the day.

Korer – also a passionate Arsenal fan – first befriended Julian in 2015, when they and other supporters of the team were celebrating in Islington following the team’s FA Cup win.

“There were thousands of people on the street for that celebration. I invite everyone to join this celebration in a similar fashion,” Korer said.

The dedication will take place on Sunday. Chabad Islington is encouraging all to attend to dress in their “holiday finest”.

For more information, go to: jewishislington.co.uk/event/torah or click here