As of 2012[update], the congregation had the largest community of any single Orthodox congregation in Europe.[2] The congregation is a constituent of the United Synagogue,[3] and it worships in the Ashkenazirite.
The congregation became affiliated with the United Synagogue in 1946, becoming a district synagogue in 1952 and subsequently a constituent (member) synagogue. The congregation has previously been called the Stanmore and Canons Park District Synagogue and the Canons Park & District Hebrew Congregation.[1]
The current building (Main Shul) was consecrated on 18 March 1951 by DayanDr I. Grunfeld and Isaac Wolfson Esq. The synagogue was built facing north rather than east (towards Jerusalem). The community centre was consecrated on 8 September 1963. The Freeman Susman Hall (above the community centre) is bigger than the main synagogue. The corridor between the main synagogue and the community centre was widened in an extension in 2002. As part of the extension a garden was established at the front of the building. A lift was added to the building in 2008 to enhance accessibility; and in 2014 the main shul was refurbished as well as half of the classrooms.[citation needed]
Clergy
The following individuals have served as rabbi of the congregation:[1]
Stanmore and Canons Park Synagogue is well known for its youth activities. Stanmore provides a huge variety of programmes for the youth of the community. This includes trips, plays, youth clubs, Jewish Learning and external groups. Stanmore is also well known for its "Learn To Lead" programme, which is now also used in Bushey, Radlett, Edgware and many other communities following its enormous success in Stanmore.
A range of clubs during the week that take place in the community centre or the "Youth Lounge". As for Jewish learning, the synagogue runs a Beit Midrash programme where sixth formers can pair up with older Chavrutahs to learn texts or discuss issues.[6]
Learn to Lead is an extensive programme where young people are given the opportunity to run the activities for the younger children. This starts with weekly sessions then the Learn to Lead Israel Trip (February Half term year 9), the Prague Trip (February half-term, year 10), the Leadership Weekend and finally the Tribe Poland Trip.[7] The programme is linked closely with Tribe and many of the leaders Stanmore produces go on to lead in other communities.[8] Stanmore's various trips are usually connected with Tribe (Tribe Poland Trip). Year 9–13 participates in the Tribe Football Frenzy.[9]
