Community

While this Purimspiel is hosted by Nottingham Liberal Synagogue (NLS), I feel the Derbyshire Jewish Community has a good claim to it too. NLS Purimspiels are the work of Derby resident, Mike Sacker, who year after year combines the Purim story with what often seems like a completely incompatible story from pop culture. Last year, we didn’t think he could combine Purim with Austin Powers, but he proved us wrong.  This year, the task has been even more challenging as the cast w

Two books in the Bible don’t mention God; Esther is one of them (the other is Song of Songs). But maybe there is a lesson here. There are a number of what could be called coincidences in the Megillah but maybe a coincidence is another way of saying God is acting behind the scenes. In the first place, Mordechai just happens to be within ear-shot of two of King A’s guards (I’m calling him King A because I don’t want an argument on how to actually spell or pronounce his name). S

The Derbyshire Jewish Community welcomes Derby City Council’s cross-party motion on antisemitism. With 93% of respondents to our July 2025 consultation not feeling completely safe, this recognition matters. We thank Councillor John Wright for raising the issue and look forward to working with partners to ensure meaningful action for the safety and dignity of Jewish residents.

Holocaust Memorial Day 2026 saw the Derbyshire Jewish Community deliver three meaningful events across the county, bringing remembrance into civic, cultural, and multi-faith spaces. Through partnership with local authorities, the sharing of survivor testimony, and the presence of the 80 Candles Quilt at every event, we ensured that Holocaust remembrance was visible, respectful, and rooted in lived experience across Derbyshire.

As Chanukah draws to a close, with the final candles now lit and the menorahs gently extinguished for another year, this feels like a natural moment to pause and reflect - not only on the festival just passed, but on the year of 2025 as a whole. Chanukah is a story of resilience, continuity and quiet defiance. It reminds us that Jewish survival has never depended on overwhelming power, but on commitment, identity and the determination to keep a flame alive even when circumsta

Mitzvah Day 2025 was marked by a month-long programme of volunteering by members of the Derbyshire Jewish Community in support of Joybank Sheffield. Volunteers gave their time to help a community food bank supporting individuals and families facing food insecurity. We were also joined by members of Seven Hills Synagogue, highlighting the strength of collaboration and the impact of sustained acts of kindness.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the tragic incident in Crumpsall. At times like these, we are reminded of the importance of unity, compassion, and standing together against hate. We send strength and comfort to all impacted.”

We would like to wish all our members a very happy Rosh Hashanah, however you are celebrating.   It has been an exciting year for our...

Early in August I went to Israel, yes just me!! Ever since the October 2023 massacre and ensuing wars I’ve wanted to do “something”....

This consultation was carried out by the Derbyshire Jewish Community to understand how local Jewish residents have been impacted by rising antisemitism and public discourse since the Hamas terror attacks on 7th October 2023. The survey aimed to gather honest, grassroots testimony about changes in behaviour, levels of fear, and attitudes toward public Jewish identity, with the intention of informing local MPs, councillors, and public bodies across Derby and Derbyshire.

Derbyshire may now have a growing Jewish community, but challah remains hard to come by—so Julia decided to bake her own. When others shared their challah troubles, she offered to teach them, and a community event was born. With ovens fired up at Grassmoor Community Centre, nine bakers gathered for a joyful afternoon of kneading, singing, learning, and laughter. This is the power of challah—and of coming together.

The Derbyshire Jewish Community proudly joins the Yellow Candle UK initiative for Yom HaShoah, lighting candles in memory of Holocaust victims. Each candle honours an individual, ensuring their name and story are not forgotten. This act of remembrance unites us with Jewish communities nationwide as we reflect, remember, and reaffirm our commitment to “Never Again.” Below are the names we honour this year as part of our collective memorial.

Pesach, or Passover, is a cherished Jewish festival celebrating the Exodus from Egypt and the journey from slavery to freedom. Families gather for the Seder, sharing symbolic foods, reading the Haggadah, and reflecting on themes of liberation and hope. At this special time, the Derbyshire Jewish Community wishes everyone a joyful, meaningful Pesach. Chag Pesach Sameach – may your holiday be filled with love, light, and connection.

Even a small act in Derbyshire can ripple across the world — our Purim donation is now helping earthquake survivors in Myanmar.

Honoured to represent Derbyshire Jewish Community at HMS Sherwood’s 75th in Nottingham—supporting our Navy & celebrating shared service.

Nottingham Liberal Synagogue’s Purimspiel went full Austin Powers this year! A groovy mix of laughs, music, and Jewish mojo saved the day.

I donate to charity year-round, but on Purim & Rosh Hashanah, I choose causes mindfully. This year, we raised funds for Aquabox—clean water!

The Derbyshire Jewish Community is featured in the Jewish Telegraph, highlighting our mission to unite and support local Jews.