Brondesbury Park Synagogue celebrated the opening of its new £7 million building and the dedication of a Sefer Torah with a party and street parade.

The revival of the once-dwindling community was evidenced by a turnout of close to 500 people at Sunday’s events, presided over by Rabbi Baruch and Kezi Levin with Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis among the VIP guests.

The street parade was followed by speeches, dancing, food and drink, with activities arranged for the community’s children and youth. Rabbi Levin also led prayers for the people of Ukraine.

Addressing guests from the shul’s new prayer hall, Chief Rabbi Mirvis praised Brondesbury Park’s community spirit, speaking of its “wonderful kehillah”. He described the rebirth of Jewish life in Willesden as “one of the greatest revival stories of Judaism in Great Britain”.

Ingrid Sellman, a member of the community for 57 years, was also among the speakers, as was shul chair Victoria Portnoi, who said that “what we have here is very special.

“After four years as nomads and two years of living through the pandemic, now we can look ahead to our future as a community, implement our vision, embrace our identities and give our children the precious gift of inhabiting their own Judaism.”

Reflecting on an “epic moment in the life of our community”, Rabbi Levin said it represented “a springboard towards a bright future.

“That there were so many children and young people in attendance speaks volumes about the regeneration of Jewish life in the area and I, together with Kezi and each of our children, look forward with relish to the journey ahead.”

The shul currently has 358 member households, including more than 130 young families.