As our community grows and evolves — with more provision
for both young people and adults, through learning at all ages,
services and expanding membership — an aspect that the NLJC
can really also support is our pastoral and welfare side. That is,
when one member is ill, or grieving, dealing with a mental or
physical health concern for themselves or their family, we believe
our community should be there.
This is a deep Jewish value, often referred to as chesed,
or lovingkindness, the care we show each other when,
inevitably, life becomes difficult. And what about when one of
us is celebrating a simcha, a happy occasion? That’s also a
time when the community should reach out and celebrate together.
To that end, in the last year we have re-instituted the Norwich
Liberal Jewish Community Care Group, a team of five members
of the community and myself — all who, in different
ways, have personal or professional experience with pastoral
support.
Through this team we endeavour to recognise more of our
community members’ difficult times and joys, through sending ‘get well’
and congratulatory cards, making calls, and being a group to funnel the
Norwich Liberal Jewish Community’s personal news to best effect.
We keep the news in strictest confidence as needed and reach out as
best we can and grow the chesed in our community. Thank you to all, who
in your different, individual ways give so much to this community.
With all best wishes,
Rabbi Leah Jordan