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Events & Programs
adult education
Please click through the three tabs below to view all of our Adult Education programming.
Talmud on Tuesdays Lunch & Learn (formerly Shabbat Afternoon Talmud Study) with Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz
Tuesday, Oct 27th 12:30p to 1:30pResumes on Tuesday, October 13 and continues weekly 12:30–1:30 PM A Shabbat afternoon favorite moves to the Tuesday lunch hour! We will continue our exploration of the talmudic tractate Beitzah, focusing upon the celebration of our festivals. Newcomers are more than welcome to join us. No prior knowledge is necessary.
Drop-in Hebrew Prayer Reading
Tuesday, Oct 27th 2:30p to 3:30pPractice your Hebrew reading of prayer and text with our Shlicha Netta Asner-Minster. This is designed for those who want to strengthen their Hebrew reading and familiarity with prayers. Recommended to bring and use the Sim Shalom prayerbook for Shabbat and Festivals. Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/404382516
The Real Story of Chanukah with Steve Kerbel
Wednesday, Oct 28th 9:30a to 11:00aWednesday, October 7 (continuing six more Wednesday mornings, concluding November 18) 9:30–11:00 AM $80 Friends of the Haberman Institute or B’nai Israel Members $95 General Public Travel back to the sources and study selections from the books of Maccabees I & II as we explore the story of the war against the Assyrians and the formation of the last independent Jewish government for 2000 years. As obtaining these texts can be difficult, a reader will be provided for all students. Zoom information will be provided once registration is received. Presented by the Haberman Institute for Jewish Studies.
Prophet Sharing: The Roles of the Prophets with Rabbis Nissan Antine, Mitchell Berkowitz, Gary Pokras, Adam Raskin, Michael Safra, & Baht Weiss
Thursday, Oct 29th 9:30a to 11:30a(Thursday, October 15 (continuing for 11 more sessions, skipping November 26, December 24 & 31, concluding on January 21) 9:30–11:00 AM $75 for B’nai Israel members or Friends of Haberman Institute $90 for general public History thinks of the prophets as superheroes: people who can see the future, speak with God, and communicate inspiring messages. But how is the prophetic message received? Nobody wants to hear that society is doomed unless people make changes they are not prepared to make. With all their eccentricities, it is easy to dismiss the prophets. This was as true in ancient times as it is today. Through text study, our diverse group of rabbis explores the role of the prophet in ancient times to understand the implications of the prophetic message for today. Presented by the Haberman Institute for Jewish Studies.
Online Israeli Wine Tasting with Steve Kerbel
Thursday, Oct 29th 8:00p to 8:45pThursdays, October 8-November 12 8:00 PM This unique case of curated Israeli wines has been assembled by wine educator Steve Kerbel. Each week Steve will hold a 45 minute Zoom wine tasting, when we will choose a white wine and a red wine to enjoy together and taste. We will learn about the wines, winemakers and wineries, about the wine growing regions of Israel and about the growing wine culture of Israel, built on ancient practices of wine making in the Land of Israel. Once the case from Kosherwine.com has been purchased, you will receive the Zoom invitation and tasting and food pairing notes. Click here to purchase.
Sacred Ecology: Divine Energy in Heaven and Earth during Kabbalat Shabbat with Debra Band
Sunday, Nov 1st 7:30p to 9:00pAs Shabbat arrives, the Shekhina enters our world and souls, enacting the exchange of human and divine energy that inspires our Friday evening traditions. In this slide- discussion, Debra Band shares her illuminated paintings from Kabbalat Shabbat: the Grand Unification, exploring how our Kabbalat Shabbat customs, drawn from the Jewish mystical tradition and the community of Rabbi Isaac Luria, support this divine ecology in ritual, blessing and song. Copies of Kabbalat Shabbat: The Grand Unification will be available for purchase with personalization at no additional charge (10 word limit). Order by October 20 to have your copy available at B’nai Israel for pickup during the week prior to the event. Cost is $37.50 (after a special 25% discount on the list price of $49.95). Presented by the Arts Task Force of the Adult Education Committee.
Portnoy on “Portnoy”: Discussing Philip Roth (z”l) with Rabbi Mindy Avra Portnoy
Monday, Nov 2nd 7:30p to 8:45pMonday, October 19 (continuing for 5 more sessions) 7:30–8:45 PM “Portnoy” is the Russian word for “tailor,” but the late writer Philip Roth changed its meaning forever when he published the best-selling book Portnoy’s Complaint in 1969. This 6-week class will focus on the life and works of Roth. Our study will highlight the different stages of his life and writings beginning with Goodbye Columbus (1959) and continuing until Nemesis (2010). Themes will include: Jews in America, families, mortality, sex and love, and politics, as well as his views of women, his love of baseball, and his attachment to Newark. We will also discuss some of the reactions to his award-winning work, especially in the Jewish community. The reading of Goodbye Columbus or Portnoy’s Complaint before the first session is recommended but not required.
Talmud on Tuesdays Lunch & Learn (formerly Shabbat Afternoon Talmud Study) with Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz
Tuesday, Nov 3rd 12:30p to 1:30pResumes on Tuesday, October 13 and continues weekly 12:30–1:30 PM A Shabbat afternoon favorite moves to the Tuesday lunch hour! We will continue our exploration of the talmudic tractate Beitzah, focusing upon the celebration of our festivals. Newcomers are more than welcome to join us. No prior knowledge is necessary.
Drop-in Hebrew Prayer Reading
Tuesday, Nov 3rd 2:30p to 3:30pPractice your Hebrew reading of prayer and text with our Shlicha Netta Asner-Minster. This is designed for those who want to strengthen their Hebrew reading and familiarity with prayers. Recommended to bring and use the Sim Shalom prayerbook for Shabbat and Festivals. Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/404382516
The Real Story of Chanukah with Steve Kerbel
Wednesday, Nov 4th 9:30a to 11:00aWednesday, October 7 (continuing six more Wednesday mornings, concluding November 18) 9:30–11:00 AM $80 Friends of the Haberman Institute or B’nai Israel Members $95 General Public Travel back to the sources and study selections from the books of Maccabees I & II as we explore the story of the war against the Assyrians and the formation of the last independent Jewish government for 2000 years. As obtaining these texts can be difficult, a reader will be provided for all students. Zoom information will be provided once registration is received. Presented by the Haberman Institute for Jewish Studies.
Prophet Sharing: The Roles of the Prophets with Rabbis Nissan Antine, Mitchell Berkowitz, Gary Pokras, Adam Raskin, Michael Safra, & Baht Weiss
Thursday, Nov 5th 9:30a to 11:30a(Thursday, October 15 (continuing for 11 more sessions, skipping November 26, December 24 & 31, concluding on January 21) 9:30–11:00 AM $75 for B’nai Israel members or Friends of Haberman Institute $90 for general public History thinks of the prophets as superheroes: people who can see the future, speak with God, and communicate inspiring messages. But how is the prophetic message received? Nobody wants to hear that society is doomed unless people make changes they are not prepared to make. With all their eccentricities, it is easy to dismiss the prophets. This was as true in ancient times as it is today. Through text study, our diverse group of rabbis explores the role of the prophet in ancient times to understand the implications of the prophetic message for today. Presented by the Haberman Institute for Jewish Studies.
Singing Circle with Cantor Bolts
Thursday, Nov 5th 7:15p to 8:00pPrepare for Kabbalat Shabbat services by singing together and learning new tunes with Cantor Sarah Bolts.
Online Israeli Wine Tasting with Steve Kerbel
Thursday, Nov 5th 8:00p to 8:45pThursdays, October 8-November 12 8:00 PM This unique case of curated Israeli wines has been assembled by wine educator Steve Kerbel. Each week Steve will hold a 45 minute Zoom wine tasting, when we will choose a white wine and a red wine to enjoy together and taste. We will learn about the wines, winemakers and wineries, about the wine growing regions of Israel and about the growing wine culture of Israel, built on ancient practices of wine making in the Land of Israel. Once the case from Kosherwine.com has been purchased, you will receive the Zoom invitation and tasting and food pairing notes. Click here to purchase.
Weekday Services: From Beginning to End with Cantors Josh Perlman and Sarah Bolts
Sunday, Nov 8th 11:30a to 12:15pSunday, October 18 (and continuing for 7 more sessions) 11:30 AM–12:15 PM Learn to lead weekday services and/or to chant Torah. These practical skills-focused classes are set up as units; participants may sign up for one unit or for both. Unit 1: Intro to Chanting Torah with Cantor Bolts October 18, 25, and November 8, 15 Unit 2: Intro to Leading Weekday Services with Cantor Josh November 22, and December 6, 13, 20
Portnoy on “Portnoy”: Discussing Philip Roth (z”l) with Rabbi Mindy Avra Portnoy
Monday, Nov 9th 7:30p to 8:45pMonday, October 19 (continuing for 5 more sessions) 7:30–8:45 PM “Portnoy” is the Russian word for “tailor,” but the late writer Philip Roth changed its meaning forever when he published the best-selling book Portnoy’s Complaint in 1969. This 6-week class will focus on the life and works of Roth. Our study will highlight the different stages of his life and writings beginning with Goodbye Columbus (1959) and continuing until Nemesis (2010). Themes will include: Jews in America, families, mortality, sex and love, and politics, as well as his views of women, his love of baseball, and his attachment to Newark. We will also discuss some of the reactions to his award-winning work, especially in the Jewish community. The reading of Goodbye Columbus or Portnoy’s Complaint before the first session is recommended but not required.
Singing Circle with Artist-in-Residence Eliana Light
Thursday, Nov 12th 7:15p to 8:00pPrepare for Shabbat with the words and sounds of our Friday evening prayers.
Schilit Nursery School Shabbat Sing with Artist-in-Residence Eliana Light
Friday, Nov 13th 10:00a to 10:30pJoin Eliana Light to sing, celebrate, and get ready for Shabbat together! All preschool age kids and their grownups are welcome.
Hachana L’Shabbat: A Moment of Preparation for Shabbat with Artist-in-Residence Eliana Light
Friday, Nov 13th 4:00p to 4:20pPause for a few moments before the onset of Shabbat to frame the approaching day with mindfulness and clarity.
Havdalah & Kumsitz with Artist-in-Residence Eliana Light
Motzei Shabbat, Nov 14th 5:30p to 6:00pWish farewell to Shabbat and greet the week ahead with song.
Author Presentation: The Lives of Isaac Stern with David Schoenbaum
Sunday, Nov 1st 11:00a to 12:00pIn celebration of Jewish Book Month, local author and B’nai Israel member David Schoenbaum will present his new book, The Lives of Isaac Stern. A centennial celebration of the sixty-year career and legacy of Isaac Stern, the first made-in-America violin virtuoso and one of the twentieth century’s greatest musicians. Co-Sponsored by the Men’s Club, the Sisterhood, and the Blumberg-Zalis Family Library.
Rabbi Matthew Simon's Winter Book Review
Sunday, Nov 8th 10:00a to 11:00aJoin us once again for Rabbi Matthew Simon’s seasonal book review series, full of information, insight and interesting anecdotes.
Book Discussion Group: Hidden in Plain Sight by Karen Batshaw
Wednesday, Nov 11th 11:30a to 12:30pDiscussion Leader: Estelle Schwalb Anna, a young Jewish woman from Salonika, has gone to live in Athens. Trained as a doctor, Anna masks her faith and her vocation to live as a Christian and avoid arousing any suspicion. Documenting the terrible, brutal occupation of Greece by the Nazis, Hidden in Plain Sight shines a light on the plight of Greece’s Jews and the brave attempts of the Archbishop of Athens to protect them. Following this discussion, join us on Sunday, November 22 as we welcome author Karen Batshaw for a special program.
Visiting Local Jewish Author
Sunday, Nov 22nd 11:00a to 12:00pKaren Batshaw will discuss her book and research documenting the terrible, brutal occupation of Greece by the Nazis. Hidden in Plain Sight shines a light on the plight of Greece’s Jews and the brave attempts of the Archbishop of Athens to protect them. Carefully researched and expertly plotted, this novel’s attention to detail and compelling characters will appeal to fans of historical fiction and those of Jewish faith and Greek Heritage.
Monday Night at the Movies Discussion: "The Cousin"
Monday, Nov 23rd 7:30p to 8:30pA family man’s loyalties and values are tested when his Palestinian handyman is the target of venomous accusations by his neighbors. (1 hr. 32 min.; Hebrew with English Subtitles)
Book Discussion Group "On Division" by Goldie Goldbloom
Wednesday, Dec 9th 11:30a to 12:30pDiscussion Leader: Harriet Fredman Goldie Goldbloom's On Division is an excavation of one woman's life, a story of awakening at middle age, and a thoughtful examination of the dynamics of self and collective identity. It is a steady-eyed look inside insular communities that also celebrates their comforts. It is a rare portrait of a long, happy marriage. And it is an unforgettable new novel from a writer whose imagination is matched only by the depth of her humanity.
Monday Night at the Movies Discussion "Is That You?"
Monday, Dec 21st 7:30p to 8:30pThis award-winning Israeli film is the story of a 60-year-old Israeli film projectionist, who has been fired from his job and is going now to the U.S. in a search for Rachel, the love of his youth. (1 hr. 23 min.; English)
Book Discussion Group: "The Book of V." by Anne Solomon
Wednesday, Jan 13th 11:30a to 12:30pDiscussion Leader: Adrienne Rulnick The Book of V. interweaves the stories of three women from different centuries, illuminating how motherhood, desire, power and femininity have changed and also remained the same through the years.
Monday Night at the Movies Discussion: "Mr. Kaplan"
Monday, Jan 18th 7:30p to 8:30pMr. Kaplan is a hilarious, crowd-pleasing black comedy revolving around a Jewish Holocaust survivor retiree who is convinced the shy, old German owner of a local seafront restaurant is, in fact, a former Nazi. (1hr. 38min.; English)
L.I.F.E. LECTURE - Israel’s Political System in the Age of Coronavirus with Ambassador Ido Aharoni
Sunday, Nov 15th 10:30a to 12:00pIsrael’s parliamentarian democracy is facing an unprecedented dual challenge: an historically complex and prolonged political deadlock coupled with the need to manage a first-of-its-kind health crisis. What are the solutions and how can Israel’s uniquely vibrant democracy cope with both? In this presentation Ambassador Aharoni will address the unique characteristics of Israel’s political system, pointing to both its advantages and disadvantages trying to answer the question of what will happen in the foreseeable future.
L.I.F.E. LECTURE - Judaism & Islam: Bridging the Great Divide with Ambassador Akbar Ahmed
Sunday, Jan 31st 7:30p to 9:00pSunday, January 31 7:30 PM No two religions are closer than Judaism and Islam, yet ironically, no two religions are further apart. Using history, culture, and theology as his guide, Ambassador Ahmed reflects on the challenges and opportunities for building bridges between the Muslim and Jewish communities. He will also offer strategies for traversing the political divide in world affairs.
Please click here to learn more about Adult Education.
Tue, October 27 2020
9 Cheshvan 5781
announcements
Explore Our Exciting Adult Education Offerings
Learn more here.
The Perlman Cantors Concert
Sunday, November 8
Don't miss this special afternoon of music and laughter with the Perlman brothers.
Click here for details.
Weekend with Eliana Light
Thursday, November 12–Saturday, November 14
Click here for information.
Join Us Virtually
Click here for our upcoming events and programs. We look forward to connecting our community.
Daily Minyan & Shabbat Services are Virtual
Click here for our worship schedule and access information.
weekday services
Sunday | 9:00 AM & 8:00 PM
Monday–Thursday | 7:15 AM & 8:00 PM
Friday | 7:15 AM
*Service times vary on holidays.
Click here to join the virtual minyan.
shabbat services
Friday | 6:15 PM
Saturday | 9:00 AM & 12:30 PM (Minha)
Click here for information about livestreaming.
inclement weather policy
Click here for information.
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We are accessible
B’nai Israel is proud to be accessible to all.
Large print siddurim, assistive listening devices and page magnifiers are readily available. Our entire building and grounds are wheelchair accessible. We can provide sign language interpreters upon request and subject to availability.
