A rousing rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone by more than 200 Barnet Synagogue members provided an apposite farewell to Liverpool fan Rabbi Barry Lerer, who is leaving the congregation after 12 years for the Central Synagogue pulpit.
The Anfield anthem concluded a motzei Shabbat “Desert Island Discs” at which Richard Carlowe asked Rabbi Lerer, an 80s’ music aficionado, about key moments in his life and the music he was listening to at the time. Presentations included a good luck message signed by the Liverpool players and manager.
At an afternoon tea on Sunday, the children’s choir, led by Serena Kurash, performed a song titled Thank You To The Lerers. The rabbi and his wife Naomi were presented with the song lyrics and a book of memories contributed by congregants.
The Lerers said they would miss life in Barnet, saying the congregation had become like extended family.