Community
Catford in dogged pursuit of minister to lead revival
South London Orthodox community sees potential for growth
November 17, 2021 10:00
South London Orthodox community sees potential for growth
November 17, 2021 10:00Catford and Bromley Synagogue is inviting applications for an “enthusiastic minister to inspire the community”, which its chair believes has the potential for growth.
The United Synagogue-affiliated shul of around 230 families is looking for a part-time minister to succeed Rev David Rome, who served the South London community for close to a decade.
Catford and Bromley chair Joe Burchell was “very keen” to progress recruitment for the post, which comes with a four-bedroom house.
The shul’s membership decline in recent years has been attributed to an ageing congregation and economic factors.
But Mr Burchell sees hope for a revival, citing the area’s Jewish population and more affordable properties, which he said were drawing in younger people.
The shul had also been receiving inquiries from members of the US’s South London Synagogue, which is in the process of closure.
New congregants would be warmly welcomed.
“We have a good cheder, a youth club and, hopefully, we will have a new enthusiastic minister who will inspire the community,” Mr Burchell said.
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