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Living in the Age of Anxiety: the Reform Movement responds to the economic crisis

Thursday, 12 March 2009

The Reform Movement has announced a series of sessions designed to explore Jewish sources in order to help people deal with the anxiety and uncertainty they are facing in the current economic crisis. The ten weekly sessions beginning in late April will be facilitated by leading rabbis and Jewish educators.

Amongst those teaching at the seminars will be Reform Movement Head, Rabbi Dr Tony Bayfield, on the subject of ‘The Chmielnicki massacres, the Mitnagdim and the Chassidim’; and Executive Director, Rabbi Shoshana Boyd Gelfand who will launch the series on 28th April by exploring the theme of ‘Leadership in times of anxiety’.

The idea was originally formulated by West London Synagogue member, David Karat who developed the concept with Rabbi Tony Bayfield. Mr Karat who has extensive experience working in and advising financial institutions and professional firms on strategic issues commented: “I looked around at the many friends and colleagues who are feeling worried about what’s happening, who are concerned and anxious about their future and financial security, and I thought there should be a community response to what these individuals are going through. It’s great that the Reform Movement is responding in this way to something that affects all of us, both the younger and older generations.”

Rabbi Bayfield added: “Jews have always lived through uncertain times. By putting the current situation into this context, there are many lessons which can be learned from our extraordinary history; sharing these experiences can help guide us through this difficult time.”

Other topics to be covered include ‘Judaism and messianism’; ‘Business ethics for a time of greed and uncertainty’; ‘The Jewish Manager in a time of recession’; ‘The Great Depression, America and American Jewry’ and ‘The Shoah and our uncertain future.’

The seminars will take place on Tuesday evenings beginning 28th April at The Sternberg Centre, North London. Full and part bursaries are available so that all those with a genuine interest in participating are able to do so.

For more information and to book your place, contact Jon Papier at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .