First Years Visit Belfast Synagogue

Tues 26th April - Twenty pupils from classes 1B, 1E and 1H (raffle winners) visited the Star of David Jewish Synagogue on Somerton Road, North Belfast. They were accompanied by Mr. Peter White and Ms. Marie Lafferty, along with third year pupils Ella Bonner and Shannon Harkin who helped to oversee the day’s activities. The tour was hosted by Mr. Michael Black, Chair of the Belfast Hebrew Congregation. Michael showed the group around the Synagogue, and a special room where each person who dies in the Jewish Community is remembered. Michael described the services the synagogue provides, and the differences and similarities when compared to a Christian Church. He also outlined the history of Jews in Northern Ireland and Donegal, giving an account of a Jewish family called Danker who once lived in Moville. The pupils asked some great questions, such as Lorcan McFeely who got into a debate with Michael about the types of foods that Jews can (and can’t) eat. Subjects such as Jewish funerals, weddings, and women in Judaism were also discussed. The synagogue is well worth a visit; it was an excellent tour. Many thanks to Mr. Michael Black.