Stevenage-based North Herts Liberal Jewish Community has become a full constituent member of Liberal Judaism.

The congregation was given “developing community” status in 2010, including rabbinic and financial support. As a result of its progress, Liberal Judaism’s council voted unanimously on Sunday to upgrade it.

Liberal Judaism chief executive Rabbi Danny Rich said: “North Herts is another example of where Liberal Judaism has invested effort and money. The congregation is now in a position to make financial and other contributions to help us establish the next new community.” Part-time NHLJC rabbi Ariel Friedlander said the community had developed “from a few people holding services together into a congregation making the commitment to become part of the national movement.”

On the same weekend, North Herts celebrated the graduation of lay leader Linda Paice as part of Liberal Judaism’s second Ba’alei Tefillah programme.

NHLJC chairman Terry Wolfe said the congregation held “numerous social activities, including quizzes and excursions. One new member commented that she had made 40 friends. How wonderful is that?”