First Thursdays: Parsing Antisemitism in the Merchant of Venice

Parsing Antisemitism in the Merchant of Venice with Dr. Brien Brothman Thursday, February 1, 7:30 pm (Hybrid) Of all Shakespeare’s plays, The Merchant of Venice was apparently among Hitler’s favorites. Germans enjoyed many performances during the Third Reich, including a special radio broadcast shortly after Kristallnacht. For some, this seems to settle any arguments about […]

Monthly Mussar Moments

Monthly Mussar Moments with Rabbi Milan-Polisar Mondays according to schedule, 12:00-1:00 pm (Zoom only) The response to Rabbi Milan-Polisar’s series on Mussar was so enthusiastic that we are going to offer a monthly Zoom-only lunch time session on Mussar. Even if you have a “day job,” we hope you can make the time to join […]

First Thursdays: Sholem Aleichem and Fiddler on the Roof

Sholem Aleichem and Fiddler on the Roof Led by Mark Pinzur Thursday, January 4, 7:30 pm (Hybrid) Part historical context, part literary background, part sing-along…plan to join congregant Mark Pinzur for an evening of fun and learning at our January First Thursday program. No cost for congregants; $15 for non-members. Registration is required and will […]

My Heart is in the East

My Heart Is in The East Led by Rabbi Frenkel Three Wednesdays, January 10, 24 & 31, 10:30-11:45 am (Hybrid; No session Jan. 17) We apologize that the first session (Jan. 10) of this course has been CANCELLED. Please continue to check your emails or this website for updated scheduling. A look at early and […]

First Thursdays: My Journey as a Genealogy Researcher

My Journey as a Genealogy Researcher Presented by Evan Fishman Thursday, November 2, 7:30 pm (Hybrid) During this First Thursday session, Evan Fishman will take us through his own genealogy research journey sharing some of what he found when exploring his own roots. Evan Fishman has taught genealogy classes at the Katz JCC and LaGuardia […]

First Thursdays (note special date): Matzah Balls, Machine Guns, & Mentschlichkeit

Note: Our December First Thursday program will take place on Thursday, November 30. Matzah Balls, Machine Guns, & Mentschlichkeit: Jews and America’s Greatest Generation Led by Lance J. Sussman, DDiv Thursday, November 30, 7:30-8:45 pm (Zoom only) Generally attributed to Tom Brokaw, the idea of the greatest generation is actually part of a spectrum of […]

Exploring Mussar

Exploring Mussar: Finding Balance Through Ancient Wisdom Led by Rabbi Ariel Milan-Polisar Three Wednesdays, November 1, 8 & 15, 10:30-11:45 am (Hybrid) Whether this is the first you’re hearing of Mussar, or you’ve spent a lot of time studying it, all are welcome in this deep dive into the Jewish study of balance. Mussar is […]

Introduction to Jewish Genealogy

Introduction to Jewish Genealogy Led by Evan Fishman Three Wednesdays, October 11, 18 & 25 , 10:30-11:45 am (Hybrid) This three-session course is designed for individuals interested in learning how to do genealogy research. We’ll delve into the basics of the research process and discover some of the unique situations that distinguish Jewish genealogy. Our […]

Elul: Power and Purpose

Led by Rabbi Jennifer Frenkel Three Wednesdays, August 9, 16 & 23 The Hebrew month of Elul (this year beginning in mid-August) leads us into our High Holy Day season and provides us with the time and opportunity to enter this season with intention and mindfulness. It offers us a necessary “warm up” for our major […]

OY. My Child the Doctor

OY. My Child the Doctor: Judaism’s Dance with Medicine Led by Rabbi Richard Address Three Wednesdays, June 7, 14 & 21, 10:30-11:45 am (via Zoom) An examination of the historical linkage between medicine and Judaism.  We will look at important figures, texts on medicine, health and wellness and ethics. June 7: Why Religion, Judaism and […]