Temple Israel - 80 Years of Service

On behalf of the Board, I am pleased to congratulate Temple Israel on its upcoming 80th birthday celebrations. Despite the challenges posed by changing demographics in the Hillbrow area, Temple Israel continues to serve as a place of worship, but at the same time it has succeeded in transforming itself into a vibrant centre of social outreach for the broader Johannesburg population. In doing so, it has given practical expression to the timeless Jewish values of caring and compassion for those in need of a helping hand, and indeed in realizing the noble Jewish ideal of Tikkun Olam – Healing the World. In congratulating all the dedicated people who are or have been involved in this unfolding story, I would like to pay a special tribute to Reeva Forman, a long-serving and highly valued member of the SAJBD whose name, in addition, has become synonymous with Temple Israel over the decades.  

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SAJBD celebrate 120 years with a gala dinner

On Monday evening, 11 November, the South African Jewish Board of Deputies celebrated its 120th anniversary with a gala dinner attended by more than 300 guests, including ministers; deputy ministers; the heads of parliamentary portfolio committees; representatives from eight political parties; members of the diplomatic corps; a 16-person delegation from the American Jewish Council; two chief rabbis; more than 40 journalists; student leaders; interfaith community representatives; industry leaders; and prominent figures within the South African Jewish community. The broad spectrum of attendees underscored the Board’s continuing significance in South Africa, highlighting its mandate and its role as a pillar for the community and a bridge to wider society.