Welcomed by Rabbi David Touboul and his team, Masorti Europe Coordinator Carmen McPherson, joined by Massorti France Director Eitan Chikli, and NOAM France Director Elias Garzon, were delighted to visit the Maayane Or community in Nice, France, for a Shabbat celebration. They met with the community leaders and learned more about the work that has built such a strong and forward-looking example within Masorti Europe.

Discussions on the importance of Massorti France within Masorti Europe, outlined the statistical reality of European Jewry and the potential for Masorti Judaism to impact modern Jewish life. Whilst with a focus on Jewish activity in Nice, we also explored the model built by Maayane Or of unity and collaboration at local and regional level, which has been so transformative and impactful for their community and neighbours.

At a meeting with Jérôme Culioli, President of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France (CRIF) South-East Corsica, this positive and purposeful message of unity was reinforced as we heard how the Maayanne Or community, through representation by President, Franck Medioni, has been instrumental in developing close relationships with all Jewish groups in the area. Culioi maintained that this unified approach of common aims and objectives ensures that Jewish life is thriving with mutual care and respect across the local area for all Jewish groups. It was especially positive to learn of the support offered by the Mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, and a walk through the town on Shabbat provided opportunity to see the flag of Israel flying at the town hall - a symbol that Mayor Estrosi has declared must remain until all hostages of 7 October are returned home.

Before Shabbat, Garzon shared a powerful message on the importance of the upcoming WZO Elections and encouraged everyone present to register to vote, which was actioned with great enthusiasm! Garzon also provided a wonderful musical accompaniment to the Kabbalat Shabbat service, and with a packed synagogue for the evening it was great to see all ages enjoying this contribution as we joined together.

During a superb Shabbat dinner, speeches were delivered and messages of gratitude shared for the incredible work shown by the congregation and the welcome that extended across the entire weekend. McPherson spoke about the future vision for Masorti Europe and the crucial role our communities in France hold within European Jewry, calling for collaboration across all our congregations. Chikli, shared about the choices we make in holding Masorti Judaism at the heart of our work, lives and activities, and the importance of our movement within Jewish life and for Massorti France.

McPherson shared: "Our Masorti movement is centred around communities, and we are now approaching forty congregations (old and new) across Europe. It is easy perhaps to think of these in terms of numbers, but it is people who make community happen. This is very evident here at Maayanne Or, where under the exemplary leadership of Rabbi David Touboul and its president Franck Medioni, you have created a community that sets an example to inspire and motivate others to follow. One that contributes so significantly to Masorti Europe and we hope will continue to grow and flourish."