Synagogues and community (upcoming)

Thursday, 30th July 2026, 6:00pm
(Online)

The Institute for the Impact of Faith in Life will be hosting an online panel discussion with representatives of different Jewish communities to discuss synagogues’ community function, including the different events and activities they organise, how they support people of different ages and backgrounds, and how they engage with the wider community.

You can register your interest in attending here.

About

We will be joined by Rabbi Michael Pollak (London School of Jewish Studies), Susan Siegel (Chair of Garnethill Synagogue), and Rabbi Kath Vardi (Menorah Reform Synagogue). The discussion will be moderated by Michael Rowe, a paralegal, Chair of the Young National Jewish Assembly, and Cantor.

The panel

Michael Rowe

Moderator

Michael Rowe is a paralegal, Chair of the Young National Jewish Assembly, and synagogue cantor. Michael participated as a panellist in IIFL’s ‘Living as a Jew in modern Britain’ event in 2024.

Rabbi Michael Pollak

Panellist

Rabbi Michael Pollak works as part of the team at the London School of Jewish Studies, where he helped found the Master’s course in Jewish Education, and as the Director of Education at Yad Vashem UK. He also teaches Ethics and Religion at Hendon School.

Susan Siegel

Panellist

Susan Siegel is the Chair of Garnethill Synagogue, the first purpose-built synagogue in Scotland and home of the Scottish Jewish Heritage Centre. Susan is passionate about interfaith dialogue and serves on the Board of Interfaith Scotland, as well as Vice Chair of the Jewish Council of Scotland.

Rabbi Kath Vardi

Panellist

Rabbi Kath Vardi is the Rabbi of Menorah Synagogue (Cheshire Reform Congregation). Kath was ordained as a rabbi at Leo Baeck College in London in 2017 and holds a Master of Public Administration in Faith Based Leadership from the University of Birmingham. Prior to this, Kath worked as a mental health nurse and services manager.