Guildford commemorates 750th anniversary of Jewish Expulsion
Rabbi Kath Vardi of North West Surrey Synagogue, along with the community’s Board of Deputies delegates Philip Goldenberg and Stuart Lanceman, represented Progressive Judaism at a historic civic and interfaith Day of Reconciliation held at the Guildhall in Guildford.
The event marked the 750th anniversary of the expulsion of the Jews of Guildford by Queen Mother Eleanor of Provence.
In a symbolic act of unity and commitment to religious freedom, the civic and faith leaders signed the Guildford Declaration of Freedom of Religion and Belief, reaffirming their dedication to fostering a community of tolerance and respect.
Rabbi Kath said: “This historic Day of Reconciliation underscored the importance of interfaith and intercommunity engagement and dialogue. With representation from the wide diversity of faith communities across Guildford the day highlighted both the importance of interfaith understanding and the perils to us all when prejudice is allowed to flourish unchallenged.”
Philip Goldenberg, who is also the synagogue’s Interfaith Officer, added: “It has been a memorable year for Jews in Guildford. A few months ago, Rabbi Alex Goldberg was inducted as the first Rabbi of Guildford since the expulsion of Guildford’s Jews in 1275.
“Now the 750th anniversary has been marked by the Guildford Declaration signed by numerous civic and faith Leaders. The Lord Bishop of Guildford spoke movingly, and is to be commended for fully and courageously apologising for the churches’ historic involvement in antisemitism.”
After Lord Bishop Andrew Watson’s address, the ceremony also featured speeches from Mayor of Guildford Cllr Sallie Barker and Rabbi Alex.
The event was attended by Saj Hussain, Chair of Surrey County Council, and faith leaders from various denominations, highlighting the diverse and inclusive nature of the day.
