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 Our Community's unique History
It all started when Reverend A.I Lewin left Palmers Green Synagogue and
moved to 53 Wellington Road in Enfield in 1936. Reverend Lewin used his
residence to house refugees during the Second World War and held
regular Friday night and Shabbat services at his home.
In 1949 the Enfield & Bush Hill Park Hebrew Congregation was
formed by a few dedicated people who had a tremendous desire for a
centre of Jewish life in Enfield. Reverend Lewin kindly allowed his
house to be used by the community for services. With Mr Henry Diamond
as Chairman and Reverend Lewin as Minister and Treasurer the community
quickly grew from 12 members to seventy in the space of three months.
With the remarkable generosity of Mrs Jane Bernstein - who could not
believe Jews lived in Enfield - the synagogue was able to get on its
feet and in 1950, Hebrew classes were started with 19 children, a
ladies guild was formed and two Torah scrolls were purchased.
As the community grew the need for a permanent community centre became
apparent. So in 1954 a large house was bought with the intention of
converting it in to a synagogue and community centre. Unfortunately the
planning permission was not granted and the house was sold.
In 1960, 53 Wellington Road was bought for £1,974.10.0d from Reverend
Lewin with a 35-years lease and a tenancy agreement was made with
Reverend. Lewin to live there free of charge. This became the
community's permanent address.
In August 1960, Reverend Lewin unfortunately passed away.
In 1962 the community unanimously voted in favour of becoming
affiliated to the United Synagogue. Henceforth we became known as the
Enfield & Winchmore Hill Synagogue.
In 1967 Reverend M. Golomb, an Australian and graduate from Jews'
College, took up the position of Minster of the community.
Reverend Golomb is remembered fondly by the members of the community
who knew him. He was respected for his depth of Torah knowledge, and
his power of oratory; indeed, his pearls of wisdom are often still
quoted in the Shul. He acted as Mohel for the community and was also a
scribe. He had a particular affinity with the children and youth of the
community. Regular classes for adults were held at his home for many
years, which combined Torah learning with an incisive wit and humour.
Reverend Golomb is especially remembered for giving comfort to people
in the time of need, and always being ready to help the community to be
more observant of the Mitzvoth. Reverend M. Golomb served as Minister
until 1991.
The position of Rabbi has been filled. Click here
for more information.
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