Origins / Beliefs

Judaism dates back over 3500 years, to the patriarch Abraham. Jews believe in one God who is the origin of the universe, and who, through the law (Torah), instituted a covenant with the Jewish people.

Worship takes place in synagogues, and is still based on the traditions from the law. This is also reflected in the high holy days, such as the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). Devout Jews live their lives according to God’s will, by doing good and by obeying his laws.

Practice

Orthodox men and a few Orthodox women pray 3 times a day at morning afternoon and evening time. Food is prepared according to the teachings of the Torah and is prepared in such a way as to preserve health.

Observant Jews dress in a modest manner. Jewish men will cover their heads in respect to God with a Kippur (skull cap) and wear a tsitsith or prayer shawl under their shirt. Married women cover their heads with a wig or a scarf and may wear a headscarf or hat when praying.

History of Judaism in Preston

Jews began to arrive in Preston from the early nineteenth century, and by 1894 an organised congregation existed. For the following thirty-plus years the Congregation used a series of temporary synagogues, many of them shared.

In 1932 the Congregation purchased a villa in the discreet location of Avenham Place. This was used for fifty years, until 1982.

They were able to appoint a very effective young minister in 1938 but when he left in 1946 he was not replaced, and for most of its last thirty years the members carried the burdens of the services, apart from the occasional visiting minister.

After the war the community produced a Justice of the Peace, and the only Jewish Mayor of Preston, as well as two other Councillors.