In pictures: A Rabbi's day

Rabbi Dr Reuven Silverman, of Manchester Reform Synagogue, consults one of the most important tools of a busy modern day Rabbi - his personal organiser

Even Rabbis need a holiday. Rabbi Silverman helps Marianne Philipps, 82, prepare for a reading of the ancient Hebrew scriptures. She sill be taking his place in August when he goes on holiday to Cornwall.

The Rabbi meets with synagogue development director Belinda Copitch to plan an annual conference with members of all the northern reform synagogues.

The present synagogue, right in the heart of the city centre, was completed in 1953. The first Manchester Reform Synagogue was destroyed by a bomb in June 1941.

The Rabbi says the congregation is like an extended family. Synagogue caretaker James McGinty pops in with great grandchildren Chloe and Connor for a chat.

One of Rabbi Silverman's many important roles is to help youngsters prepare for their Bar Mitzvahs. David Gould is pictured in the synagogue with son Ben.

Ben prepares a reading from the scriptures. "The Bar Mitzvah is vitally important," says Rabbi Silverman. "It's the boy's entry into adulthood."