How about stepping back in time to 1936? That was when the seeds of the Catford Synagogue were sown. This synagogue stands as a testament to faith community and perseverance.
Since 1936 the Catford And Bromley United Synagogue has united Jewish people from South-East London and Kent. Services were initially held in members’ homes. Imagine those early gatherings filled with hope.
By 1939 over 100 people had joined the congregation. Reverend Cooper became the first minister. The community was growing rapidly.
In 1940 the synagogue found its first official home at 53 Catford Hill. However those early years were tough. The outbreak of war led to declining membership. Bomb damage further threatened the synagogue.
The community persevered. In 1948 Rabbi J.H. Rockman became the minister. He helped the community to grow once more.
By 1952 new premises were needed. After a huge fundraising effort the Glennifer laundry sports ground was purchased on Crantock Road. Services were held in an old squash court. This was a temporary solution. Rabbi Rockman later returned to Catford Synagogue in 1958 after a brief period away in Harrogate.
The congregation continued to dream of a proper synagogue. In 1965 High Holy Day services were held in various venues hired from Bromley Council. The Arnold Robins Hall was not big enough. Funds were raised to create a purpose-built synagogue.
In 1967 the first newsletter called The Shofar was published. It was later renamed The Gazette.
Finally in February 1968 the new synagogue was completed. The first service was a memorable occasion. The first Bar Mitzvah followed in March. At last the community had a permanent home independent of the Town Hall. The Catford Synagogue could accommodate all its members.
The Catford Synagogue has continued to thrive. In 1999 the synagogue Contact Committee won the Chief Rabbi’s award for attracting community togetherness. In 2002 the Catford And Bromley United Synagogue and Bromley Reform Synagogue collaborated to organise a successful one-day Limmud in Bromley.
The Friendship Club celebrated 50 years since its first meeting in 2007. In 2012 Minister Cantor David Rome was appointed. He was the grandson of Rabbi Rockman.
In 2014 the community celebrated its 75th anniversary with a tea attended by Chief Rabbi Dr Jonathan Sacks. Rabbi Bryan Weisz joined in 2022 to lead the community. He had previously served synagogues in Berlin and Prague.
Today the Catford Synagogue is more than just a building. It is a vibrant community hub. It offers a place to pray socialize and learn. The synagogue welcomes new members and visitors. It maintains strong links with the wider community promoting interfaith dialogue. The Catford Synagogue has a proud history and a bright future.