Simchat Torah 2026

This year’s Simchat Torah service was really well attended. The service was expertly led by Natasha as we honored our Kallat Bereshit Anastassiya and Chatan Torah, Sergei.

Amid laughter, singing and clapping, the scrolls were paraded the requisite 7 times, children without a scroll, followed the procession waving Israeli flags. We then settled down to hear Ana read Bereshit and Sergei reading Devarim so expertly. What a joy to listen to them. 

Louis presented certificates and gifts to Anastassiya and Sergei to mark the occasion. 

As per tradition, the children were blessed under a Tallit held this year by Sergei, Avi, Elliot and Nathan. You can just spot the youngest member of the congregation, Ezra, sitting next to the reading desk in the background. Ezra refused to cooperate and stand with the rest of the children. He was sitting next to the reading desk where he had insisted on sitting next to Granny, Natasha, for most of the service, totally absorbed by the small printed ‘baby scroll’ we have for little ones to parade.

A wonderful kiddish was enjoyed following the service, how fast did that huge Challah disappear? 

As usual, Geoff supplied us with some amazing photos. A few of which can be found here.