Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation celebrated its 70th anniversary with a sold-out gala dinner during a packed weekend of events attended by leaders of other faiths.

The British, Israeli and Austrian ambassadors and members of the Dublin City Interfaith Forum were among guests at a Friday night service incorporating the induction of Rabbi Charles Middleburgh as DJPC rabbi emeritus.

Shul president Dr Helen Marks told the congregation that "by meeting and praying together, we create the type of dialogue and understanding that is essential in creating the future we all want for ourselves and our children".

At the dinner, Dr Marks highlighted the shul's work with organisations in the wider community, such as Inner City Helping Homeless.

On Sunday, youngsters from the community planted apple trees in the synagogue garden in honour of the efforts of rabbis Middleburgh and Andrew Goldstein to build and sustain the congregation.

Liberal Judaism chief executive Rabbi Danny Rich and chair Simon Benscher played a full part in the weekend.

The shul involves 225 people - 180 adults and 45 children. They are mostly living in the Dublin area, although the membership stretches to Wicklow, Limerick and even Belfast.