Lectures & Courses

Join Cesare Civetta, a native New Yorker who has conducted over 60 orchestras in 15 countries with sold-out performances at Lincoln Center and Madison Square Garden, as he explores the fascinating life and music of George Gershwin – one of the greatest Jewish composers of the 20th century. We will take a trip down memory lane as we hear iconic pieces ranging from Rhapsody in Blue, An American in Paris, and Porgy and Bess. Lunch will be served.

Learn more & Register »

Beginning in January, we will be offering a weekly series of drop-in programs on mindfulness, healing, and rejuvenation to help you restore, replenish, and reconnect. These programs are open to all.

Healing Service
First Thursday of the Month: Feb. 7, Mar. 7, Apr. 4, May 2, Jun. 26
Led by Rabbi Lori Koffman and Rory Michelle Sullivan
A sacred space to process our fears and struggles. Through prayer, meditation, sharing, and singing, we will find healing, strength, and hope in one another.

Mindful Movement and Meditation
Second Thursday of the Month: Feb. 14, Mar. 14, Apr. 11, May 9, Jun. 13
Led by Cantor Julia Cadrain
A rare time-out. A place to exhale, stretch, and meditate before we rejoin the fray and frenzy of our typical routines. No special clothing, background, or equipment is required.

Caregiver Café
Third Thursday of the Month: Feb. 21, Mar. 21, Apr. 18, May 16
Led by Rabbi Lori Koffman and Social Worker Jackie Pykon
Caring for a sick loved one can be fraught, confusing, exhausting, and difficult. Offering support both practically and emotionally, the first half-hour will feature a visiting expert, followed by a facilitated sharing session.

Joy is Central
Fourth Thursday of the Month: Jan. 24, Feb. 28, Mar. 28, Apr. 25, May 23
Led by Rabbi Lori Koffman
Inspired by Rabbi Buchdahl’s Yom Kippur sermon reflecting on the Torah’s commandment to be joyful, this class will focus on a different practice each month—gratitude, mindfulness, relationships, and more.

Brooklyn’s Borough Park is home to many different Chasidic Jews, as well as other types of Ultra-Orthodox Jews, and the area remains a continuously transitional part of New York. Join us as we explore the area and learn more about the past, present, and potential future of this dynamic neighborhood.

Register »

Pirkei Avot, one of the best-known and most-cited of Jewish texts, is a collection of succinct rabbinic statements on how to live a meaningful life. Join Jewish educator Lisa Lisser for five compelling sessions that will dive into the words of Hillel and Shammai, Rabbi Akiva, and many more, to explore how our tradition can guide us on ethics and interpersonal relationships. No prerequisites for participation. Open to members and non-members.

Register »