The only synagogue in Manchester city centre held a 'solemn' final service this weekend (November 27), in an emotional end to the building's 70-year history. The Manchester Reform Synagogue at Jackson's Row is due to be demolished to make way for a 41-storey tower and five-star hotel backed by Gary Neville.
Tears filled the eyes of congregants who embraced during the deconsecration service which saw holy scrolls taken out of the building in a special procession. It followed the final Saturday service held at the synagogue the previous day.
"Yesterday, our sanctuary was bursting as we held our last ever Shabbat service here in this building," Principal Rabbi Robyn Ashworth-Steen said. "Today is a quieter, more solemn service – a time for gratitude and paying honour."
