Norwich Synagogue is so fortunate to have such a wonderful building to use as the focus of our Jewish Community. But the building is in turn blessed in its way by being brought to life by the members and supporters of our community who support each other by coming to our services and our other events.
We are enormously grateful in particular to those who always seem to go the extra mile whether by offering to help with security, with weekly kiddush, with ensuring we have a Minyan, with organising events, preparing food for events, clearing up after events etc. And that includes the enthusiastic young wielders of the big floor sweeping device. You know who you are and thank you!
But there are other people who may not be quite as frequently visible, but give of their time and support in other ways, whether by financial support or behind the scenes introductions or other help or involvement, all of which is invaluable to our community, but which is not so obvious to others. They quietly help things happen in or around the Synagogue which are of benefit to us all, and also to the wider community of Norwich. Again, you know who you are and thank you!
It is so gratifying when a new “volunteer” comes forward, whether with an offer of regular help or some special contribution or idea which they are prepared to follow through for the benefit of us all. This not only takes some of the pressure off the “regulars”, but is also part of the community bonding which draws us together and can give so much satisfaction to those who are able to engage in this way.
So, this is really a plea to anyone who does feel able to do so to get more involved in what we do, in addition of course to attending our services, whether Daniel’s Orthodox services or the monthly egalitarian Kehilat Meir. It can start with just being more responsive when we ask for volunteers to read in services, or when we are looking for help with security, but also extends to attending and supporting the community and wider social events which other members work so hard to lay on for us. We cannot prosper without your real support and active contribution.
We must also have an eye on the future management of the Shul, and the need to enable and encourage new (and younger) people to join the management committee and take on some of the responsibilities involved in deciding on what direction we should be heading in, and keeping us on course. If anyone is prepared to consider doing so, whether now or in the future, please do have a word with any member of the existing (and aging) committee, or at least be receptive if you get a tap on the shoulder!