Considering inclusivity since its foundation in 1946, the Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation stands before us. This congregation, also known as DJPC, has a fascinating story. The Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation’s story begins with Lawrence Eleazar Elyan. He was a civil servant from Cork who proposed a Liberal Jewish congregation.
Early members were prominent figures. Dr Bethel Solomons was Master of the Rotunda Hospital and a former Irish rugby international. Professor Mervyn Abrahamson was from the Royal College of Surgeons. Abraham Jacob Leventhal, a lecturer at TCD and friend of Samuel Beckett, also joined. Dr Ernst Schreyer, a lawyer from Germany, contributed too. He taught German at TCD.
Interestingly, Dr Hans Waldemar Rosen, conductor of the RTÉ Singers, was the organist for over 40 years. He was not even Jewish. The Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation first met in a Quaker meeting house. In 1952, the foundation stone was laid for their synagogue on Leicester Avenue. It stands beside the Church of the Three Patrons in Rathgar.
The Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation experienced growth. By 1956, religion classes had 55 children. The first cantor, Revd D Friedmann, served from 1946 to 1948. Rabbi Dr Jakob Jankel Kokotek was the minister from 1948 to 1951. Rabbi Kokotek was born in Poland and raised in Germany. Before Dublin, he served in England. Later, he held positions in Liverpool and Belsize Square.
The last resident rabbi departed in 1972. Since 2005, Rabbi Dr Charles Middleburgh has served part-time. He founded a congregation in Copenhagen. He was also Dean at the Leo Baeck College in London. Rabbi Emeritus Charles Middleburgh still visits the Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation frequently.
The Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation is based on inclusivity. Membership is open to all Jews. Non-Jewish spouses or partners are welcome. It has a reputation for warm services. Services occur every Erev Shabbat. They also happen on High Holy Days, Festivals, and many Shabbat mornings. Family services are frequent. Special events mark Jewish milestones like births and weddings.
Jacqueline Solomon, a founder member, celebrated her bat mitzvah at 82. Rabbi Middleburgh led the service. In May 2016, the Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation celebrated its 70th anniversary. A gala dinner and weekend of events marked the occasion. Representatives from various traditions attended, including Archbishop Diarmuid Martin and Archbishop Michael Jackson.
The Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation is an international partner in Mitzvah Day UK. Members engage in Irish interfaith activities. Cheder takes place on Sunday mornings. Children learn Hebrew, Bible studies, Jewish customs, and practices. Outings and special events enrich their experience. Older youth attend Jewish camps organized by Liberal Judaism.
The Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation has its own cemetery. It’s located in Woodtown, near Rathfarnham. It was established in 1952. The Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation welcomes tourists. Contact them first by mail if you plan to visit. As you stand here, remember the Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation’s commitment to inclusivity. Remember its vibrant history.