Our annual Anne Frank service was held at College Hall in Hereford Cathedral this year. Joining 3CLJC were Chancellor of the Cathedral, James Pacey, Lama Tenzin Choesang, representing the Buddhist community. In addition, Revd. David Wiseman and his wife Mary, representing the Church of England and Midge & Geoff Ault on behalf of the BaHa’I community. Rabbi Anna, very skilfully crafted a Shabbat service, which included elements of the Shavuoth service, together with a celebration of Anne Frank’s birthday. Our guests enjoyed the Shabbat service which they found to be most moving, and tucked in to a delicious Kiddush afterwards.
Anne Frank fled with her family from Germany in 1933 to escape the Nazis and settled in Amsterdam. Of course, we all know about her famous diary, but I for one did not know she had written another book called Tales from the Secret Annex. This consists of short stories and essays which capture life in a different neighbourhood expressing her feelings and struggles while the Frank family are in hiding.
We were encouraged to learn from the important messages in this book, with two readings read beautifully by Jade and Josh. I am reminded of a poignant thought that, at the time, Anne Frank was the same age as Josh is now.
I would like to finish with a quote written by Anne:
“ALL PEOPLE HAVE THE RIGHT TO LIVE IN FREEDOM”.