Israeli athletes visit Newcastle Reform Synagogue

This year’s World Transplant Games took place in Gateshead and Newcastle. Newcastle Reform Synagogue (NRS) were delighted that Nadia Stock, who received a bone marrow transplant 16 years ago, is one of the competitors. Nadia’s parents, Lisa and Paul, suggested that the Israeli team might like to join with NRS for Kabbalat Shabbat.

Eight of the athletes were among a crowd of about 50 people who enjoyed an Israeli-style meal, with home made hummus, shakshuka, salads and salmon, followed by a traditional English pudding of blackberry and apple pie.

At the conclusion of the meal Chair, Linda Scott, invited competitors to describe how receiving a transplant had altered their lives.

NRS was delighted to receive a gift of candlesticks, hand forged in Israel, the beginning of a friendship forged in shul.