Saturday, January 13 - 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service
Rabbi Berman will speak "Renewed Beginnings: Reflections for People Who Celebrate Two New Years!"
Our observance of Rosh Hashanah...and our celebrations of January 1, point to the unique ways in which we, as Jews, each have one foot in two worlds. This dual reality poses special challenges as well as possibilities. Before our resolutions - from either September or January - fade from our consciousness, we will explore how the annual gift of two different kinds of new beginnings can help us grow spiritually! An Oneg Shabbat reception follows
The BJS Choir will rehearse at 5:30 PM.
Saturday, January 21 - 10:00 AM
Torah Study with Rabbi Devon Lerner
Our Torah Study has taken on a new format. BJS member Rabbi Devon Lerner is leading our Sabbath Torah Study Services this year. We will now cover two topics during every session. The first topic will focus on a general subject, the second topic will address a current event through the lens of traditional texts, commentaries, current writing and our own experience.
Friday, January 27 - 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service – Torah Service
We will read and study key texts from the current weekly Torah Readings from the Book of Exodus, which begin this month, and their stirring narratives of slavery, liberation and Revelation. Our Oneg Shabbat reception follows
The BJS Choir will rehearse at 5:30 PM.
2011 - 2012 SPIRITUALITY AND THE ARTS SERIES
Join BJS/Emmanuel Center's series of "talk back" discussion forums for this season's productions of Boston's famed Speakeasy Stage Company. This event will follow selected Sunday afternoon performances of each play and will feature commentary by Rabbi Howard Berman, Rev. Pamela Werntz, and the cast and directors of the performances. The discussions will focus on spiritual, ethical and social issues raised by the plots and themes of each of these varied performances.
Each production begins at 3:00 PM unless otherwise noted.
To order Tickets at discounted BJS/ Emmanuel price: Call Jim Torres, Director or Marketing: 617-482-3279 or email - jimtorres@speakeasystage.com
Sunday, October 9, 2011 – Next Fall
Sunday, November 13, 2011 – The Divine Sister
Sunday, January 22, 2012 – Red
Sunday, March 25, 2012 – Next to Normal
2011
Saturday, December 3 - 10:00 AM
Sabbath Morning Torah Study
Our Torah Study is taking on a new format. We will now cover two topics during every session. The first topic will focus on a general subject, such as the meaning of the Holidays or a survey of Jewish theologies. The second topic will address a current event through the lens of traditional texts, commentaries, current writing and our own experience.
Topics for December 3rd
Religious Freedom in the Light of Chanukah: Honoring Others’ Religious Freedom as Well as Our Own, and
Current Events: Our Economic Crisis: A discussion on Economic Justice
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Friday, December 9 - 6:30 PM
Member Appreciation Sabbath Eve Service
As the holiday season gets underway, we will take this opportunity to celebrate our BJS family - both newer members and longtime congregants who together contribute to the growing strength and mission of our temple. A number of our members will share personal "testimonials" of the role that BJS plays in their lives, to inspire each of us in reflecting upon our own commitment and support.
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SAVE THE DATE
A Light Through The Ages
Sunday, December 18, 2011 - 4 PM
Visit www.alightthroughtheages.org to learn more about this year's Chanukah event, listen to past audio clips and view BJS member's menorahs. Mark your calendars for this free musical holiday event - where BJS welcomes our neighbors from all faiths to share our holiday tradition.
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Tuesday, November 29 - 7:00 PM
Jewish-Muslim Interfaith Dialogue
Exploratory meeting to discuss a new BJS program of Jewish-Muslim interfaith dialogue. Details will follow!
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Friday, November 18, 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service
Rabbi Berman will speak: "Seek a Place You Do Not Know..." At this beginning of the new year's reading and study of the Torah, we will explore some of the major themes of the current weekly chapters from the Book of Genesis, recounting the early beginnings of Jewish history with the lives of Abraham and Sarah.
At this service, the BJS family will celebrate the Naming Ceremony of Jia Samra, Granddaughter of Sandy and Steve Shapiro. A special Oneg Shabbat reception will follow, hosted by the family, including Jia's parents, Julie and Bajit.
The BJS Choir will rehearse at 5:30 PM.
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Sunday, November 13, 3:00 PM
SPIRITUALITY AND THE ARTS SERIES
"The Divine Sister"
Nun of the Above
"We are living in a time of great social change. WE must do everything in our power to stop it", Mother Superior counsels in Divine Sister, Charles Busch's riotously funny send up of Hollywood's fascination with Christian monastic religious life from happy nun stores like The Bells of St. Mary's and The Sound of Music to more disturbing tales like Doubt and The DaVinci Code.
Underneath the farce (way, way underneath) Busch addresses spiritual and moral questions about: the nature of healing and visions, of heresy and truth, of faith and myth, of chance encounters and enduring relationships, of the complexity of human experience and the search for meaning. "We are all haunted by memories of lost love," Mrs. Levinson explains when she reflects on her regrets and her determination to abide by the choices she has made, "no matter how foolish." Divine Sister exposes the absurdity of religion when it adopts a posture of preserving itself (at all costs) as an institution hell-bent on controlling people rather than a living breathing expression of the spirit of the Divine. The play is a hilarious tribute to our unnamed and unknown sisters and the power of Love.
Emmanuel Center will host a post talk-back reception in the South End at the home of one of our members on Sunday, November 13. For more information or to RSVP, please email us at info@bostonjewishspirit.org.
Theater tickets should be purchased directly from Speakeasy. Please identify yourself as being part of BJS for a discounted seat.
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Saturday, November 12, 10:00 AM
Torah Study with Rabbi Devon Lerner
Torah! Torah! Torah!: Exploring Its Many Meaning
First we will take a look at one of BJS's Torah scrolls. Then we will talk about how reading and studying the Torah can relate to our contemporary lives. And finally, we will consider an understanding of Torah that goes beyond the sacred texts to embrace contemporary writing, history, the arts and more. Together all forms of Torah can teach us ethical principles that inform, guide and nourish our spiritual lives.
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Friday, November 4, 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service
"BACK TO BASICS: Thoughts as we begin a new season of Temple life at BJS."
Our Oneg Shabbat Social Hour will follow the service.
BJS Choir Practice will begin at 5:30 PM.
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Wednesday, October 12, 6:00 PM
The Festival of Sukkot
Plan to join us for the decorating of our beautiful Sukkah on Newbury Street, followed by a brief celebration Service and holiday Oneg. The BJS Sukkah has become a widely popular tradition, visited by many hundreds of passerby in the Back Bay!
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Friday, September 16th, 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service
Watching the Moon: Spiritual Preparation for the High Holy Days
As the sacred season of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur approach, our Jewish tradition offers many meaningful insights and resources to help us most fully experience this transforming time.
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HISTORIC INTERFAITH WORSHIP PLANNED FOR SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
Boston Jewish Spirit will join the other faith communities of Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood, as we gather to mark the Tenth Anniversary of the national tragedy of 9/11/2001 with a special Interfaith Worship Service in Copley Square on Sunday, September 11, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. This Service, whose theme will be “From Remembrance to Hope”, will represent an unprecedented coming together of our diverse religious traditions – Jewish, Christian and Islamic - for shared worship that will take the place of each congregation’s regularly scheduled worship on that day. Each participating church and synagogue has covenanted to suspend their own individual Services to share an inclusive liturgy that will reflect our different traditions as we together proclaim our common life and ideals as American people of faith – both in solemn memorial and in affirmation of the hope for universal reconciliation, peace and justice embraced by all of our religious teachings.
This Service, under the auspices of the Back Bay Clergy Association, will feature music by the combined choirs of the participating congregations, and will include opportunities for participation by children. In case of inclement weather, the Service will be held in Trinity Church.
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Saturday, September 10th, 9:00 AM
Tobin Fall Clean-Up
Join community groups in preparing the outdoor spaces for
fall. A great way to support Tobin school children fulfilling our
mission of “the creation of a community of worship, learning and service".
Location: Maurice Tobin K-8 School
40 Smith Street, Roxbury Crossing
Short walk from Longwood or Brigham Circle stops on the
E: Heath Green line T on Huntington Avenue
Rain or shine. Breakfast and lunch provided.
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Friday, August 19th, 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service
"Pulpit Dialogue for a Summer's Eve" (rescheduled from last Service)
We will use the opportunity of our summer worship for open discussion of various questions of Jewish thought and practice raised by members... one of our periodic chances to " ask the Rabbi" about those religious questions that have been on your mind! This will also be an opportunity for members to share impressions and experiences from their summer travels to places of Jewish interest.
We will celebrate the Naming Ceremony of John Anthony Lissner, son of Adrienne and Dan at this Service.
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Friday, July 15 - 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service
"Pulpit Dialogue for a Summer's Eve"
We will use the opportunity of our summer worship for open discussion of various questions of Jewish thought and practice raised by members... one of our periodic chances to "ask the Rabbi" about those religious questions that have been on your mind!
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Tuesday, August 9 - 7:00 PM
An Evening of Poetry with Bonnie Lyons
The Emmanuel Center is pleased to host an evening of poetry and discussion with noted poet, Bonnie Lyons on Tuesday, August 9th from 7:00-9:00 PM. She is the mother of Boston Jewish Spirit member Eve Lyons and will offer us an evening of dramatic, beautiful, and thought-provoking poems from the perspective of women in the Bible.
Bonnie Lyons' first chapbook, Hineni, was published by Finishing Line Press in 2003 and her second chapbook, Meanwhile, was published in 2005. Her poems, articles, and interviews have appeared in a wide variety of literary magazines and scholarly journals, including The Paris Review, Contemporary Literature, and Shenandoah. About her book In Other Words, published by Pecan Grove Press in 2004 and from which Lyons will be reading, fellow poet Wendy Barker said it "pulses with the terrible questions that plague the often unnamed, unvoiced women of the Bible. From the searing rage of Tamar to the patient insight of Rizpah, from Jezebel's ferocious warning to Jael's painful revelation, these forceful revisionary versions of Biblical episodes offer us a series of dramatic monologues that build to a resounding chorus."
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Wednesday, June 8 – 7:00 PM
Annual Pride Vigil at the Holocaust Memorial
Join Rabbi Berman and other Boston religious leaders for this beloved tradition of LGBT Pride Week, our tribute to the gay men and women who were oppressed and persecuted through the ages and died in concentration camps with our fellow Jews in the Holocaust. BJS has sponsored this event since its inception.
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Friday, June 10 - 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service
Our Service will celebrate our congregation’s commitment to the Jewish ideal of Tikkun Olam, the healing of our world with acts of justice and peace, through our Social Action program’s partnership with Tobin School in Roxbury. The school’s Principal, Cheryl Watson-Harris will be our guest, and will share her own reflections on the significance of Boston Jewish Spirit’s efforts in building bridges in our community.
Another special highlight of our worship will be a performance by our own Jill Silverstein and Judy and Marty Arick, of Mozart’s The Kegelstatt Trio for clarinet, viola and piano. We hope that this will be the first of many opportunities for our members to enrich our spiritual experience by sharing their talents in the arts, literature and music.
BJS Choir practice will begin at 5:30 PM.
Our Oneg Shabbat Social Hour will follow the Service.
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Saturday, June 11 – 10:00 AM
Annual Interfaith Pride Service
Old South Church
645 Boylston Street, Copley Square
Click here to view
BJS is a proud sponsor of this 34th Annual Service, celebrating pride in the diversity of our community. This year’s Speaker will be the Rev. Liz Walker, award-winning Boston television journalist and film producer. Rabbi Berman will participate in the Service.
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Sunday, June 12 - 5:00 PM
Annual Meeting of the Congregation
We will have a short business meeting with updates on our temple life, the upcoming year’s budget, and previews of some of the initiatives to come in FY11-12. The meeting will be followed by a potluck supper (bring your favorite main dish, side dish, salad or dessert) and friendship.
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Sabbath Eve Service
Friday, May 13 - 6:30 PM
Rabbi Berman will speak:
“Hear O Israel… Who and What “Israel” Means…”
Our Oneg Shabbat Social Hour will follow the Service.
BJS Choir practice will begin at 5:30 PM.
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BJS Mitzvah Day at Tobin School
Saturday, May 21 - 9:00 am
We will combine our monthly Torah Study session with our Social Action Committee's annual "School Clean Up Day" at Tobin School in Roxbury. Following brief Shabbat Prayers and reflections of the theme of Tikkun Olam, our Jewish mandate to repair and heal our world through justice, BJS members will join others from the community to work on Spring clean up projects around the School with whom we have partnered over the past year - planting, painting, and other projects to enhance the students' learning environment.
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Emmanuel Center
Spirituality and the Arts Theatre Series at Speakeasy Stage
“The Drowsy Chaperone”
Sunday, May 22 – 3:00 PM
Mayhem, mix-ups and a wedding mark the high-spirited hijinx of The Drowsy Chaperone, winner of five 2006 Tony Awards. The fun begins when a die-hard musical fan plays his favorite cast album, a 1928 smash hit called "The Drowsy Chaperone" and the show magically bursts to life. Suddenly the man finds himself immersed in the glamorous, hilarious tale of a celebrity bride and her uproarious wedding day, complete with thrills and surprises that take both the cast (literally) and the audience (metaphorically) soaring to the rafters.
Run time: 1 hour 40 minutes without an intermission
Join BJS/Emmanuel Center's series of "talk back" discussion forums for this season's productions of Boston's famed Speakeasy Stage Company. This event will follow selected Sunday afternoon performances of each play and will feature commentary by Rabbi Howard Berman, Rev. Pamela Werntz, and the cast and directors of the performances. The discussions will focus on spiritual, ethical and social issues raised by the plots and themes of each of these varied performances. Each production begins at 3:00 PM unless otherwise noted.
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BJS OPEN BOARD MEETING
Sunday, May 22 – 5:30 PM
Please join us for our annual Pot Luck open board meeting.
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AN INTRODUCTION TO THE NEW "ART OF THE AMERICAS" WING OF THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS
Sponsored by the Emmanuel Center- the partnership between BJS and Emmanuel Church
Wednesday, June 1 - 6:30 PM
The recent opening of the magnificent new wing of the MFA, highlighting the art of North and South America, is the talk of the art world and a major cultural event for our community. Rabbi Berman will lead the latest in his popular series of MFA tours with a special overview of the collections in the new wing - with our characteristic focus on the spiritual context for the art and culture of America, reflecting its democratic, pluralistic values.
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Friday, April 8 - 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service, Rabbi Berman will speak:
”Beyond the Gefilte Fish: Passover’s Timeless Messages of Liberation”
While the Seder is the focal point of our celebration, the ancient and universal themes of Passover go beyond the rituals, songs…and eating…that are the highlights of the observance. In preparation for the Seder, we will take this opportunity to highlight the deeper messages of universal and personal freedom that are at the heart of this Festival’s powerful and inspiring meaning.
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Saturday, April 16 - 10:00 AM
Sabbath Morning Torah Study
“Passover Memories”
Rabbi Devon Lerner will lead an overview of the highlights of holiday traditions. Reminiscence of childhood impressions or other recollections of the Seder are so much a part of many of our celebrations, and we will share these special experiences together.
Join us for discussion and our bagel brunch (before the 7 days of Matzah arrive and bagels become an elusive fantasy!).
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BJS FAMILY PASSOVER SEDER
Second Night of Passover
Tuesday, April 19 - 6:30 pm
We are looking forward to our BJS annual second night Seder on Tuesday April 19 at 6:30 pm. Our participatory Haggadah ceremony with singing, discussion and full catered dinner has become a beloved holiday tradition. We will be joined by invited guests from Emmanuel Church.
Please note that due to limited seating, our Seder is open only to BJS members and their invited guests, on a first come-first served basis. Member Cost: $45.00 per person. Adult Guests- $50.00.
Temple members also have the opportunity of sponsoring a fellow BJS Family member who may not be able to cover the cost of joining us, by donating a "Seat for Elijah".
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Emmanuel Center Purim/Mardi Gras Celebration
Sunday, March 6 from 5 – 7:30pm in the Parish Hall
Potluck hors d’oeuvres, dinner, dessert AND entertainment to knock your socks off!
Willie Sordillo, noted jazz musician
Trium, our beloved vocal trio
Sara Peattie, Emmanuel’s master puppeteer
Costumes welcome and encouraged. Smiles and good cheer required!
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Friday, March 11 - 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service
Rabbi Berman will speak: “For Such A Time As This…”
Purim, the Feast of Esther, will be observed this year on March 20. Beyond the merriment and fun-filled celebrations that mark this holiday, are the deeper themes and messages of the Megillah – the Biblical Book of Esther, which tells the inspiring and exciting story of a young woman who found herself placed in a unique position to change history and stand up to evil by drawing on her own faith and courage. We will add meaning to our other celebrations of Purim as we reflect on these spiritual challenges which have important messages for our own lives and times.
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Saturday, March 19 - 10:00 AM
Sabbath Morning Torah Study
The Festival of Purim – Reading of the Megillah
Our annual reading and discussion of the Book of Esther.
Please join us for our brief Service, study and discussion, and our bagel brunch – featuring Hamantaschen, of course! Everyone is urged to bring their favorite versions from your local bakery- or, even better- home made!
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Saturday, February 26 - 10:00 AM
Sabbath Morning Torah Study
The 200th Anniversary of Reform Judaism - Our Founding Texts
We continue our ongoing observance of our Movement's Bicentennial as we
study the major documents that have shaped the liberal Jewish vision over the past two centuries. All of the progressive values that our congregation is founded upon are rooted in these texts, beginning with key passages from the Bible itself, through the contemporary statements of the principles of our Classical Reform Jewish tradition.
Israel Jacobson (1768-1828) – “The Father of Reform Judaism”.
We will study Jacobson’s Sermon for the Dedication Service of the world’s first Reform Temple in Germany in 1810, setting forth a broad, universal vision of Judaism’s mission in the modern world.
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Sunday, February 13 – 11:00 AM
Community Interfaith Celebration at Old South Church, Copley Square
As part of a nation-wide Day of “Faith Shared”, Rabbi Berman will join the Rev. Nancy S. Taylor and Dr. Abdul Cader Asmal of the Islamic Center of Boston in Wayland, for a special Worship Service exploring the traditions of pluralism and religious friendship shared by our three religious traditions.
An Educational Forum will precede the Service, at 9:45 am.
All BJS members are urged to share in this important opportunity for dialogue and healing at this volatile time of political and religious polarization in our country and throughout the world.
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Friday, February 11 - 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service
Rabbi Berman will speak: “The Possibilities of Faith” – Part II
We will continue our reflections on the challenges of our differing understandings of God, faith and prayer, as we confront the struggles that many people may have with personal belief and the language of worship. We will continue to explore the many ways to interpret the concepts expressed in the Prayer Book, as each of us moves along our own spiritual journeys and broadens our intellectual and spiritual horizons. We hope to keep this conversation going as one of the most important priorities of our life together as a congregation.
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2011 SPIRITUALITY AND THE ARTS SERIES
Sunday, February 6 – 3:00 PM
Two-Time Tony Award-Winner – Best Musical: NINE
Producing Artistic Director Paul Daigneault celebrates SpeakEasy's 20th anniversary with a very special production of his all-time favorite musical, nine. Based on Fellini's classic film 8½, this spectacular show tells the story of film director Guido Contini, who is facing both mid-life and marital crises after turning 40. Drifting toward a nervous breakdown, Guido finds himself examining his past flawed relationships with the many women who have come through his life, while struggling to accept and live life as a mature adult man.
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Saturday January 22 - 10:00 AM
Sabbath Morning Torah Study
The Festival of Tu Bi’Shevat – “The New Year of the Trees”
A Celebration of Nature in Poetry
In observance of this traditional holiday, which falls on January 20, our Torah Study this month will explore the theme of Jewish values related to the appreciation of nature and the environment. Rabbi Berman will share some insights from our tradition, and Eve Lyons will lead the sharing and discussion of poetry from various sources on the celebration of Creation. All participants are urged to bring a poem or personal reflection on their own experiences of nature as a setting for spiritual encounter.
Our bagel brunch will include fruits of the season, appropriate to this holiday.
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Friday January 14 - 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service
Rabbi Berman will speak: “The Possibilities of Faith”
While we reflect often at BJS on the challenges of our differing understandings of God, faith and prayer, we must continually confront the struggles that many of us have with formal worship and the language of our Service. There are many ways to interpret the concepts expressed in the Prayer Book, and each of us must move along our own spiritual journeys as we broaden both our intellectual and spiritual horizons. We hope to keep this conversation going as one of the most important priorities of our life together as a congregation.
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2010
CHANUKAH FESTIVAL SERVICE CANTATA :
"A LIGHT THROUGH THE AGES"
Sunday December 5 - 4:00 PM
FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
It’s finally here! Our congregation’s inauguration of a new holiday tradition for our community, our Cantata, A Light Through the Ages. We hope to see you, your family and friends as we join together for this wonderful experience of the deeper meaning of our Festival of Lights. Free and open to everyone.
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Saturday December 11 - 10:00 AM
Sabbath Morning Torah Study
"The 200th Anniversary of Reform Judaism - Our Founding Texts"
We continue our ongoing observance of our Movement's Bicentennial as we study the major documents and principles that have shaped the liberal Jewish vision over the past two centuries. All of the progressive values that our congregation is founded upon are rooted in these texts, beginning with key passages from the Bible itself, through the contemporary statements of the principles of our Classical Reform Jewish tradition.
Rabbi Devon Lerner will lead a discussion on the role of women in Reform Judaism.
Please join us for our brief Service, study and discussion, and our bagel brunch!
Friday December 17 - 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service
Rabbi Berman will speak: "The New MFA: A Celebration of America's Heritage of Diversity"
Everyone in Boston is excited and inspired by the recent opening of the new “Art of the America’s” wing of the Museum of Fine Arts. We will reflect on the various ways that the creative new approach to the exhibition of American art proclaims the many cultural and religious streams that have shaped our nation- including our own Jewish presence and influence.
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Friday, November 12 – 6:30 pm
Sabbath Eve Service
Rabbi Berman will speak: "November Musings: On the Meaning of Elections, Veteran's Day, Autumn and Thanksgiving".
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Spirituality and the Arts Series
Body Awareness
Wendesday November 17 - 7:30 PM
Join BJS/Emmanuel Center's series of "talk back" discussion forums for this season's productions of Boston's famed Speakeasy Stage Company. This event will follow selected Sunday afternoon performances of each play and will feature commentary by Rabbi Howard Berman, Rev. Pamela Werntz, and the cast and directors of the performances. The discussions will focus on spiritual, ethical and social issues raised by the plots and themes of each of these varied performances.
“Body Awareness” week on a Vermont college campus is the setting for this smart and touching comedy about ordinary people grasping for connection. When Phyllis, the organizer, and her partner, Joyce, agree to host a photographer famous for his female nude portraits, a firestorm erupts that could break apart their unconventional family.
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Saturday, November 20 – 10:00 am
Sabbath Morning Torah Study
New Series for 2010 – 11
"The 200th Anniversary of Reform Judaism - Our Founding Texts"
We continue our ongoing observance of our Movement's Bicentennial as we study the major documents that have shaped the liberal Jewish vision over the past two centuries. All of the progressive values that our congregation is founded upon are rooted in these texts, beginning with key passages from the Bible itself, through the contemporary statements of the principles of our Classical Reform Jewish tradition.
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Tuesday, November 23 – 6:00 pm
Annual Interfaith Community Thanksgiving Service
King’s Chapel, Corner of Tremont and School Streets (Park Street /Downtown Crossing /State T Stops).
Please plan to make the holiday week more meaningful by joining us for this fifth annual Service, sponsored by the Back Bay Clergy Group and all of the churches of the central part of Boston. BJS has been a sponsor of this beautiful experience from the beginning, and many of our members attend. Rabbi Berman will participate with other area clergy.
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Spirituality and the Arts Series - IN THE NEXT ROOM (or the vibrator play)
Sunday October 3 - 3:00 PM
Join BJS/Emmanuel Center's series of "talk back" discussion forums for this season's productions of Boston's famed Speakeasy Stage Company. This event will follow selected Sunday afternoon performances of each play and will feature commentary by Rabbi Howard Berman, Rev. Pamela Werntz, and the cast and directors of the performances. The discussions will focus on spiritual, ethical and social issues raised by the plots and themes of each of these varied performances.
"Insightful, fresh, and funny." - The New York Times
This laugh-out-loud, provocative and touching play is a comedy about marriage, intimacy and electricity. Set in the 1880s at the dawn of the age of electricity and based on the bizarre historical fact that doctors used vibrators to treat 'hysterical' women (and some men), the play centers on a doctor and his wife and how his new therapy affects their entire household.
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Sabbath Eve Service - Dedication of BJS' New Torah Scroll
Friday October 15 - 6:30 PM
As we begin a New Year of the reading and study of the Torah, our Temple will appropriately dedicate our new Torah Scroll. [for website only - Please see the full story below]. Two very special highlights of this Service will be a reading from the Torah by Lisa Plotnick, whose family arranged for its presentation, and our welcome of Rabbi Edward P. Cohn of Temple Sinai in New Orleans, who was responsible for the acquisition of our first Torah in 2007, and will be our guest at this Service.
A Special Oneg Shabbat reception to celebrate this milestone will follow the Service.
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Emmanuel Center "Choral Festival of Psalms"
Sunday October 17 - 4:00 PM
Click for larger image
Sabbath Morning Torah Study Service
New Series for 2010-11
"The 200th Anniversary of Reform Judaism- Our Founding Texts"
Saturday October 23 - 10:00 AM
Our Torah Study for this season will continue our ongoing observance of our Movement's Bicentennial as we study the major documents that have shaped the liberal Jewish vision over the past two centuries. All of the progressive values that our congregation is founded upon are rooted in these texts, beginning with key passages from the Bible itself, through the contemporary statements of the principles of our Classical Reform Jewish tradition.
Please join us for our brief Service, study and discussion, and our bagel brunch!
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Boston Jewish Spirit Receives Our Second Torah Scroll
Our Temple is marking another joyous milestone as we prepare to welcome in the New Year – the arrival of BJS’s second Torah Scroll! The Torah had been used for over 75 years by the Community Center of Israel, an Orthodox synagogue in Bronx, New York, which has just recently disbanded due to demographic transitions. This was the family Shul of BJS member Lisa Plotnick, and coincidentally, where her husband Neil’s Bar Mitzvah reception was held. Through their efforts, and the intervention of Lisa’s parents, Lenny and Gail Zavlick, and her uncle, Dr. Steven Schwartz, we were suggested as a fitting place for one of the Scrolls. The connections are all the more meaningful in that Lisa and Neil’s son Marty was BJS’s first Bar Mitzvah in 2007! A family caravan transported the Torah from New York to Boston, and it was delivered to Rabbi Berman and President Jill Silverstein this past Monday, August 30. We will use our new Torah for the first time on Rosh Hashanah morning, and we will formally dedicate it at a Sabbath Service in the coming months. Our heartfelt thanks to the Zavlick and Plotnick families for making this wonderful and sacred gift possible!
BJS Members Marty and Judy Arick, Rabbi Berman and Temple President Jill Silverstein were on hand to accept the Torah.
Neil Plotnick hands our new Torah to Rabbi Berman
The High Holy Days - 5771
Eve of Rosh Hashanah ~ Wednesday September 8
Rosh Hashanah Morning ~ Thursday September 9
Kol Nidre - Eve of Yom Kippur ~ Friday September 17
Yom Kippur ~ Saturday September 18
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The 2nd Annual Joint Emmanuel/BJS Potluck Lunch and "House Cleaning" at Emmanuel Church
Sunday, September 19 – 12:00 pm to 3:00pm
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The Festival of Sukkot - Sukkah Decorating and Service
Wednesday September 22 - 6:00 PM
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Friday, August 13 – 6:30 pm
Sabbath Eve Worship, "Tales of a Traveler"
Rabbi Berman will share some impressions of his recent visit to Paris, and encounters with landmarks and sites of Jewish, Christian and general cultural significance in the "City of Light."
Please note: The August Service presents a great opportunity to introduce BJS to those friends who may be seeking a place to celebrate the High Holy Days and become part of a spiritual community. Please reach out to anyone you feel might be interested!
Our Oneg Shabbat Social Hour will follow the Service.
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Sabbath Eve Service
Friday, July 9, 2010 - 6:30 PM
Rabbi Berman will speak: "The Spiritual Possibilities of Summer"
With the season for relaxation and vacations well underway, we will consider some of the many creative ways we can experience summer travel and leisure as opportunities for spiritual growth and Jewish learning.
Our Oneg Shabbat Social Hour will follow the Service.
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Wednesday, June 9 - 7:30 PM
Annual Pride Vigil at the New England
Holocaust Memorial
Click to view larger image
BJS is the co-sponsor of this annual gathering during Pride Week to
commemorate all those of the GLBT community who have suffered persecution through the ages, including extermination during the Holocaust. Rabbi Berman, Rev. Pam Werntz of Emmanuel and Rev. Kim K. Crawford Harvie of Arlington Street Church co-officiate at this ceremony. All BJS members are invited to share in this moving highlight of Pride Week.
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Friday, June 11 - 6:30 PM
Monthly Sabbath Eve Worship
Rabbi Berman will reflect on the recent tragic events in the Israel-Palestinian conflict, and offer some thoughts on our responses as American Jews.
Our Oneg Shabbt Social Hour will follow this Service.
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Saturday, June 12 - 10:00 AM
Annual Interfaith Pride Worship Service
Old South Church, Copley Square
BJS is a co-sponsor, and Rabbi Berman is a participant in this annual gathering of Boston's faith communities to launch the city's Pride Parade with a spiritual affirmation of freedom and equality.
Click to view larger image
Sunday, June 13 - 5:00 PM
Boston Jewish Spirit Annual Meeting of the Congregation
All BJS members are urged to join us for our year-end review of the very busy and successful season we have shared together, as we look forward to major highlights in the coming months. Our meeting will be followed by a pot luck supper. Please bring a light entree, side dish or dessert for 12 people.
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Friday, May 7 – 6:30 pm
Sabbath Eve Service – Rabbi Berman will speak:
“Beyond the Scandal: A Jewish Perspective on the Emergence of an American Catholic Church.”
The clergy sex abuse scandal is fueling a revolutionary development in American religion unfolding before our eyes – the birth pangs of a truly American Catholic Church- as opposed to the 2000 year old Roman Catholic Church. We will consider the pluralistic, democratic influences in American history and culture that have shaped Judaism and the Protestant Churches., which are now transforming Catholicism.
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Sunday, May 16, 3:00 pm
Emmanuel Center “Spirituality and the Arts”
Speakeasy Stage Production of "The Great American Trailer Park Musical"
The Hilarious Off-Broadway Musical Hit
Music and lyrics by David Nehls
Book by Betsy Kelso
Directed by Paul Daigneault
Music Direction by Nick Connell
Choreography by David Connolly
Run time: 95 minutes, no intermission
Boston-Area Premiere! Leigh Barrett, Mary Callanan, Kerry A. Dowling and David Benoit star in this delightful new musical about agoraphobia, adultery, spray cheese, road kill, hysterical pregnancy, kleptomania, flan and disco. When Pippi, a stripper on the run, comes between Dr. Phil-loving, agoraphobic Jeannie and her toll-collector husband, neighbors Betty, Lin and Pickles team up to save their friend's marriage.
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Our Emmanuel Center “Talk Back” will follow the performance, with the Rev. Pam Werntz and Fred Weber of Emmanuel Church, and BJS President Jill Silverstein.
Saturday, May 22 – 10:00
Sabbath Morning Torah Study Service - The Festival of Shavuot
BJS will celebrate this important holy day in the Jewish calendar, commemorating the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai, with a special Service of worship and study. Rabbi Devon Lerner will be with us to lead the Service and our study of the text of the Ten Commandments from the Book of Exodus. Our own Eve Lyons will also share poetry selections on the theme of Torah, from a variety of writers.
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Saturday April 24 - 10:00 am
Sabbath Morning Torah Study Service
We will continue our study of the Prayer Book, as we move along in the order, history and personal meanings of our Jewish worship Service. Our topic for this session will be the Sanctification, the Kedusha Prayer, taken from the Prophet Isaiah’s vision of the “heavenly host” praising God, proclaiming “Holy, Holy Holy”…a core text in Christian worship as well.
Our regular bagel brunch will be served.
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Sunday, April 11
BJS Open Board Meeting
Sunday April 11th - 10 am
Greater Boston Holocaust Remembrance Day
Yom HaShoah Observance in Faneuil Hall
BJS is a sponsoring Congregation of Boston’s official Holocaust educational and tribute programs in our community. Holocaust Remembrance Day/Yom HaShoah event is a crucial part of that effort. This observance honors the Survivors and pays homage to the millions who perished.
We hope that you will join with JCRC, New England Holocaust Memorial, American Association of Jewish Holocaust Survivors of Greater Boston, Synagogues, Schools, Associations and Organizations in our community by sharing in the Greater Boston Holocaust Remembrance Day/Yom HaShoah event at Faneuil Hall.
Let us stand together in the Great Hall, Survivors, Generations After, educators, students, religious leaders, civic leaders and the Greater Boston community to pay tribute to the Survivors who live in our community, to recite Kaddish for lives destroyed by hatred and to sing and pray for justice and peace.
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Sunday, April 18 – 1:00 pm
Saturday, April 24 -11:30 am
The City on the Hill: The Spirituality of Boston Architecture
As an extension of BJS's popular annual walking tour of Boston's central neighborhoods, Emmanuel Center is pleased to present this special Event to members of Boston Jewish Spirit and Emmanuel Church. Rabbi Berman will lead a personal guided tour of historic Boston buildings, focusing on the religious dimensions of our city's landmarks, particularly the Jewish and Episcopalian influences in Boston’s history.
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Friday, April 16 - 6:30 pm
Sabbath Eve Service - "Ask the Rabbi"
In place of a sermon this evening, we will have an open “Pulpit-Pew” dialogue session, with the opportunity to ask Rabbi Berman questions on any aspect of Jewish belief, observance or history. Give some thought beforehand to that pesky little thing (or that big cosmic dilemma) you've always wondered about, but have not had an opportunity to ask... final word on the matter is not guaranteed, but helpful insights will be gladly offered...and as always, there is no such thing as a "silly question..."
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Tuesday, March 30 - 6:30 pm
BJS FAMILY PASSOVER SEDER - Second Night of Passover
We are looking forward to our BJS annual second night Seder on Tuesday March 30 at 6:30 pm. Our participatory Haggadah ceremony with singing, discussion and full catered dinner has become a beloved holiday tradition.
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Sunday, March 28 - 3:00 PM
"Spirituality and the Arts" Series at Speakeasy Stage "Adding Machine: A Musical"
Join Emmanuel Center's series of "talk back" discussion forums for this season's productions of Boston's famed Speakeasy Stage Company. This event will follow the second Sunday afternoon performance of the play and will feature commentary by Rabbi Howard Berman, Rev. Pamela Werntz, and the cast and directors of the performances. The discussions will focus on spiritual, ethical and social issues raised by the plots and themes of each of these varied performances.
"Adding Machine: A Musical" Original music by Joshua Schmidt Libretto by Jason Loewith and Joshua Schmidt Based on the play The Adding Machine by Elmer Rice Directed by Paul Melone Starring Brendan McNab
“Brave and bold!” –Variety
A musical adaptation of Elmer Rice’s incendiary 1923 play, Adding Machine tells the story of Mr. Zero, who after 25 years of service to his company is replaced by a mechanical adding machine. An eclectic score gives passionate and memorable voice to this stylish and stylized show.
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Sunday, March 21 - 2:00 pm
The Wellesley Players - "FIDDLER ON THE ROOF" at Babson College
Rabbi Berman has been the Consultant for this production, which is always a favorite. If you have never seen Fiddler performed live, it's a very special experience, and, of course, a deeply emotional encounter with Jewish history.
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Saturday, March 20 - 10:00 AM
Sabbath Morning Torah Study Service
"Seder Brush Up" - As we approach Passover, we will review the major themes and texts of the Haggadah. Since the holiday is ten days away, we can still enjoy our bagel brunch!
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Wednesday, March 17 - 6:30 PM
BJS EVENING AT THE MFA- Part II
This second in our series of visits to the Museum of Fine Arts will have a broader focus than January's specific study of Jewish subjects. With our friends from Emmanuel Church joining us, Rabbi Berman will discuss universal spiritual themes reflected in the art of various cultures- exploring the many ways that humanity's religious quest for meaning finds expression in painting and sculpture.
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Sunday, March 14 - 4:00 pm
Chorus Pro Musica Performance of
Ernst Bloch's "Sacred Service"
John Hancock Hall- 180 Berkeley Street
This magnificent symphonic setting of our Reform Union Prayer Book Sabbath Service, composed in 1934, is rarely performed in Boston. It is the most important orchestral setting of Jewish liturgy, for orchestra and chorus. All BJS members are urged to attend this concert, for a unique experience of the broader musical traditions of Jewish worship! For more information, click here.
We will have an opportunity to discuss the Concert at the Monthly BJS Board Meeting, which will follow the program (around the corner from Emmanuel).
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Friday, March 12 - 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Service - "Ask the Rabbi"
In place of a sermon this evening, we will have an open dialogue session, with the opportunity to ask questions on any aspect of Jewish belief, observance or history. Give some thought beforehand to that pesky little thing (or that big cosmic dilemma) you've always wondered about, but have not had an opportunity to ask... final word on the matter is not guaranteed, but helpful insights will be gladly offered...and as always, there is no such thing as a "silly question..."
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Sunday, March 7 - 3:00 pm
Institution of The Reverend Pamela Louise Werntz
We hope you can join us in celebrating with our friends at Emmanuel Church. This is a special service celebrating the Institution of The Reverend Pamela Werntz as the twelfth Rector of the Emmanuel Church Parish.
The Wardens, Vestry and People of
Emmanuel Episcopal Church
Invite you to
a Celebration of New Ministry
and Service of Institution of
The Reverend Pamela Louise Werntz
as the Twelfth Rector of the Parish
The Right Reverend M. Thomas Shaw, SSJE
Bishop of the Diocese of Massachusetts
presiding and preaching at
EMMANUEL CHURCH
15 Newbury Street
Boston Massachusetts
Sunday, March 7, 2010 at 3:00 in the afternoon
Your prayers and presence are requested
Reception following
If you are planning to attend please respond to
Barbara Kroft
617-536-3355
rsvp.emmanuel@gmail.com
Saturday, February 27 - 10:00 am
Sabbath Morning Torah Study Service
The Festival of Purim- Reading of the Megillah
Purim begins this evening, and we will celebrate with our study of the Megillah Story of Queen Esther. In place of our regular Shabbat bagels, we'll enjoy Hamantaschen!
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Friday, February 12 - 6:30 pm
Sabbath Eve Worship
Rabbi Berman will speak: "A Rabbi Goes to Catholic School"
Observations and impressions from my recent experiences teaching Judaism to Middle and High School students at Boston College High School.
An Oneg Shabbat social hour will follow our Service.
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Sunday, January 31 - 3:30 PM
Spirituality and the Arts Series at Speakeasy Stage
"[title of show]" and Talk Back Session
Emmanuel Center "Spirituality and the Arts" Series
As part of the programs of the newly established Emmanuel Center, the interfaith partnership between Boston Jewish Spirit and Emmanuel Church, our two congregations co-sponsor a series of "talk back" discussion forums for each of the season's productions of Boston's famed Speakeasy Stage Co. These in-theater events follow specified Sunday afternoon performances of each play, and feature commentary by the Rev. Pamela Werntz and Rabbi Howard Berman. The discussions focus on spiritual, ethical and social issues raised by the plots and themes of each of these varied productions.
January 31's production, "[title of show]" is a love letter to musical theatre and to the joy of collaboration. This charming new musical is about two struggling young writers writing a new musical about two struggling young writers writing a new musical. In the span of 90 minutes, the pair, along with the help of two friends, write and perform their show-within-a-show at a musical theatre festival, and along the way learn lessons about themselves as people, friends and artists.
All performances are at the Calderwood Pavilion, 527 Tremont Street in the South End. Special discounted tickets ($35) will be available by calling Jim Torres at Speakeasy (617) 482-3279. Callers should identify themselves as members of Emmanuel Church or BJS, and can pick up tickets and pay at the door the day of the performances.
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Saturday, January 23 – 10:00 am
Sabbath Morning Torah Study
We will continue our study and discussion of the structure, history and meaning of our Jewish worship Service. All are invited to join us for our Service and our popular and lively conversations – every session is self-contained, and requires interest and imagination rather than academic background! A Bagel Brunch will accompany Torah Study.
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Wednesday, January 13 - 6:30 PM
An Evening at the MFA
As part of our temple's Fifth Anniversary, we will be presenting this "Special Edition" of our annual tour of the Museum. Rabbi Berman will lead a personal guided study of major spiritual themes reflected in selected highlights of the Museum's collection, including the MFA's newly acquired 18th century German Chanukah Menorah. This program is being coordinated by our own BJS member Katie Getchell of the Museum's Executive Staff. Following the tour, we will be hosted at an elegant buffet reception in the Museum's signature restaurant, BRAVO...
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Friday, January 15 – 6:30 pm
Sabbath Eve Service
Rabbi Berman will speak on "The Exodus Story as a Universal Model for Liberation." As we observe Martin Luther King Day, coinciding with the beginning of weekly Torah Readings from Exodus, the second book of the Torah, we will reflect on how our ancient story of freedom from slavery has been an inspiration to many oppressed people through the ages.
An Oneg Shabbat Social Hour will follow the Service.
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2009
Saturday - December 19 - 10:00 am
Sabbath Morning Torah Study Service
Rabbi Berman will lead a discussion of "The Christmas Story: A Jewish Perspective", reflecting on the profound influence of Jewish tradition and symbolism in the Gospel narrative of the Nativity Story. Come and learn about many of these fascinating parallels...did you know that according to ancient Jewish legend, there were a Star and Wise Men present at the birth of....Moses?
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Friday December 11- 6:30 pm
The First Night of Chanukah
Sabbath Eve Service and Holiday Celebration
In place of our regular Service, we will welcome in our beloved Festival of Lights with the presentation of Rabbi Berman's original cantata of story and song recounting the celebration of Chanukah throughout our history. This sermon was a long-time favorite at our rabbi's previous pulpits in New York and Chicago, where it was broadcast on radio each year, attracting thousands of listeners and winning broad recognition.
The Service will culminate with our own BJS tradition of the kindling of all of our Menorahs together - please be sure to bring your own, with two candles (Shammas and First Night candle).
Following the Service, we will share in a special Pot-Luck Holiday Oneg Shabbat! Please bring a dessert, cheese or fruit plate for 10 people. Anyone who brings their own homemade potato latkes will be awarded a special prize!
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Annual Back Bay Community Thanksgiving Service
Tuesday, November 24 - 6:00 pm
Lindsey Chapel
BJS and Emmanuel Church are this year's hosts of our interfaith Service, now an established tradition in our community. Members of all local area congregations will form our Choir, under the direction of Nancy Granert. Rev. Stephen Murray, Pastor of the First Baptist Church on Commonwealth Avenue will be this year's preacher.
BJS has been part of this annual holiday event from its inception, and it is always a popular Service with our temple members... come and join us to usher in our beloved annual celebration of America's shared spiritual heritage!
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Saturday November 21 - 10:00 am
Sabbath Morning Torah Study Service
Paula Dickerman will lead our Service, and Eve Lyons will lead a discussion of selected poetry on Jewish spiritual themes by the prominent contemporary writer Marge Piercy.
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Friday November 13 - 6:30 pm
Sabbath Eve Service
Rabbi Berman will discuss the current film "A Serious Man", a contemporary interpretation of the Biblical Book of Job - exploring the timeless question of "why bad things happen to good people..."
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Friday, October 23 – 6:30 PM
BJS Fifth Anniversary Service of Celebration
Our entire Temple Family is urged to share in this celebration of our congregation’s milestone birthday. Through prayer, special music (and musical guests), and reflections by our rabbi, members and invited guests, we will look back on our journey together so far, and envision our future hopes.
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Sunday, October 18 – 4:00 PM
Julie Silver in Concert!
We are thrilled to welcome back Julie Silver, one of the most beloved performers of contemporary Jewish and secular music today, as we celebrate Boston Jewish Spirit's fifth anniversary. We look forward to every BJS member participating in this major kick-off to our temple's Fifth Anniversary.
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Saturday, October 10 – 10:00 am
Sabbath Morning Torah Study- Festival of Simchat Torah
As we conclude the High Holy Day season with the annual renewal of the Reading of the Torah, we will reflect on the enduring meaning and messages of the final...and beginning words of the Torah.
Following our Torah Study Service, we will all join together in dismantling our Sukkah. Our first Sukkah has made a tremendous impact on the community, with hundreds of passersby stopping to see it and learn about the holiday symbols and traditions! Please come prepared to lend a hand!
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Sunday, October 4 - 3:00 pm
The Savannah Disputation - New England Premiere!
Emmanuel Center "Spirituality and the Arts" Theatre Event
A Pentecostal missionary gets more than she bargained when she pays a visit to two Catholic spinsters and sparks a crisis of faith. To fight back, the sisters enlist the help of their unsuspecting parish priest, setting the stage for a comic showdown of biblical proportions. Nancy E. Carroll and Paula Plum star in this touching and funny new play.
Following the performance, Rabbi Berman and Rev Werntz will lead a “talk back” discussion on the many religious, ethical and social issues raised in this play. Please join us!
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Saturday, October 3 - 9:30 AM
BJS Sukkot Celebration
This year, as part of our temple’s “coming of age” on our Fifth Anniversary, we will mark yet another milestone in BJS’s development – the building of our first Sukkah!
Sukkot, the ancient Biblical harvest festival, is observed the week following Yom Kippur. As ordained in the Torah, our people have always built the Sukkah, the “booth” or “tabernacle,” as a sign of God’s sheltering love and care, and as a symbol of the ingathering of the harvest. The wooden arbor frame is decorated with branches, fruits and flowers of the season, proclaiming the bounty of Creation. Sukkot has become Judaism’s “Environmental Festival”, celebrating our commitment to the preservation of the earth and its natural resources, as we seek harmony in our place in the universe of living things. It is also regarded as the Biblical model that inspired the Pilgrims in celebrating their first Thanksgiving at Plymouth in 1621.
BJS Celebrates Sukkot!
(L-R) Jim Hood from Old South Church, who contributed cornstalks, with David Silverstein
BJS President Jill Silverstein, and Rabbi Howard Berman, James Robinson on ladder...
Our temple celebrated the Bibilcal Harvest Festival of Sukkot with the building of the first public Sukkah in the history of Back Bay! This outreach effort, sharing our Jewish tradition with the broader community, was a huge success! Many hundreds of people stopped by to see, learn, pray and enjoy the spirit of this Festival. There were many meaningful and moving encounters with passersby, tourists and even school groups who deeply appreciated this opportunity to experience this ancient tradition. One conversation with a group of visitors from Japan was particularly memorable... the tour guide asked me if this was a "quaint old New England custom," and I answered that it was even older than New England itself! A photo of the Sukkah was featured on the front page of the Boston Courant, and we have received many messages of appreciation for making this holiday observance available to all our neighbors!
Howard
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Friday, September 18
Service for the Eve of Rosh Hashanah
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Saturday, September 19
Rosh Hashanah Morning Service
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Sunday, September 27
Kol Nidre Evening Service
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Monday, September 28
Yom Kippur Morning Service
Afternoon Study/Discussion Forum
Yizkor Memorial Service followed by Concluding Service
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Sunday, September 13 – 11:30 AM
Annual “Fall Clean Up” of our shared home with Emmanuel Church members, as we spruce up, polish and get the Sanctuary and Chapel ready for the new season of our worship.
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Friday, September 11- 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Worship
As we prepare for the coming High Holy Days, our prayers and music will help us begin to capture the mood of this sacred season. Rabbi Berman will speak on the prophetic legacy of Senator Ted Kennedy, and his long and very close relationship to the Jewish community.
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Friday, January 16 - 6:30 pm
Sabbath Worship Service followed by an Oneg Shabbat Social
Please note that our Sabbath Eve Service this coming Friday, January 16, at 6:30 PM will be a Service of Thanksgiving and Blessing in Honor of the Inauguration of Barak Obama as President of the United States. Boston Jewish Spirit has been invited to participate in a special Inauguration project by the Library of Congress, which will be collecting videotaped Services from various Houses of Worship throughout the country this weekend, as a permanent archive of the commemoration of this historic event by America's religious communities. Our Service this Friday will be taped as part of this program...come join us and be part of history!
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Wednesday, January 14 - 7:00 pm
Living Conversations: Torah/ Bible Study Group
A new Adult Education program, under the joint sponsorship of BJS and Emmanuel Church, through the Emmanuel Center. Living Conversations, will meet on a biweekly basis in the Mezzanine Library at 15 Newbury Street. Conversations will focus on the Book of Genesis/ Be'reshit while using Bill Moyers best-selling book: "Genesis: A Living Conversation" as our guide. This group will study the timeless spiritual and ethical issues raised in the Torah's Creation epic and stories of the Mothers and Fathers of the Jewish, Christian and Islamic traditions. Participants are asked to bring copies of the book for each session.
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Saturday, January 31 - 10:00 am
Sabbath Morning Torah Study Service
Our new series of Shabbat study Services has been very successful, with great enthusiasm and participation by a large group of our BJS family! Come join us for prayer, song and Torah study- and, of course, bagels and coffee!
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February 11 and 25 - 7:00 PM
Living Conversations: Torah/ Bible Study Group
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Sunday, February 8 - 3:00 pm
Emmanuel Center "Spirituality and the Arts" Theatre Event
The New Century Four short comic plays by Paul Rudnick. A Jewish matron with three gay children, a flamboyant TV host, and a Midwestern scrapbook/cake decorating enthusiast each tell their stories and then meet, in this outrageous look at contemporary society in the new millennium. All performances at the Calderwood Pavilion of the Boston Center for the Arts, 527 Tremont Street in the South End.
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Friday, February 13 - 6:30 pm
Sabbath Eve Worship followed by Oneg Shabbat Social Hour
Rabbi Berman will speak "On Being a Religious Reform Jew".
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Saturday, February 28 - 10:00 am
Sabbath Morning Torah Study Service
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Sunday, March 8 - 12:15 pm
Songs of the Spirit: The Psalms in Jewish and Christian Tradition
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March 11 and 25 - 7:00 pm
Living Conversations: Torah/Bible Study Group
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Friday, March 13 - 6:30 pm
Sabbath Eve Worship, followed by Oneg Shabbat Social Hour
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Saturday, March 28 - 10:00 am
Sabbath Morning Torah Study Service
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Sunday, March 29 - 3:00 pm
The Wrestling Patient
Performance at the Calderwood Pavilion of the Boston Center for the Arts, 527 Tremont Street in the South End.
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Sunday, April 5 - 12:15 pm
Jewish and Christian Interpretations of the Narratives of the Death of Jesus
An Emmanuel Center Forum: "The Passions of the Passion". This Emmanuel Center program presents a panel discussion of the complex historical contexts, theological interpretations and ethical challenges surrounding the Gospel narratives of the death of Jesus of Nazareth. The panelists include the Rev. Pamela L. Werntz; Rabbi Howard Berman of Boston Jewish Spirit; and Charles Blandy, performer of the Evangelist, in Emmanuel Music’s production of Bach’s St. Matthew Passion, which follows the discussion.
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April 8 and 22 - 7:00 PM
Living Conversations: Torah/ Bible Study Group
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Thursday, April 9 - 6:00 pm
BJS Family Seder
Our participatory Haggadah ceremony with singing, discussion and full catered dinner has become a beloved holiday tradition. The celebration is open to BJS members and their invited guests.
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Friday, April 17, 6:30 pm
Sabbath Eve Worship followed by Oneg Shabbat Social Hour
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Saturday, April 11, 10:00 am
Sabbath Morning Torah Study Service
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Friday, May 8 – 6:30 pm
Sabbath Eve Worship
Rabbi Berman will speak on “Lindsey Chapel as a Synagogue”. While clearly designed as a Christian worship space, Emmanuel Church’s gothic architecture has also played an important role in the art and design of Synagogues through the ages. We will reflect on the Jewish dimensions of this style as well as its universal spiritual symbolism. We will also honor all Mothers in our BJS family at this Mother’s Day weekend service. Worship is followed by Oneg Shabbat Social Hour.
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Tuesday May 12 – 6:00 pm
Bishop Gene Robinson will be our guest at the Emmanuel Center, in conjunction with the screening of the film “The Bible Tells Me So”, portraying different religious understandings of GLBT rights.
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Saturday, May 16 - 10:00 am
Sabbath Morning Torah Study Service
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Sunday, May 17 - 3:00 pm
Emmanuel Center Spirituality and the Arts Theatre Series
Speakeasy Stage Presents: “Jerry Springer The Opera” – Following the performance of this highly controversial portrayal of the excesses of popular culture, Rabbi Berman and Rev Werntz will lead a “talk back” discussion on the many religious, ethical and social issues raised in this musical.
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Wednesday, June 10 - 7:30 PM
Annual Pride Vigil at the New England Holocaust Memorial (Near Fanueil Hall.)
This important part of Boston's GLBT Pride Week is hosted by our Congregation each year. Rabbi Berman will lead the brief program of tribute to gay and lesbian victims of oppression through the ages, as well as those homosexual victims of the Holocaust.
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Friday, June 12 - 6:30 PM
Monthly Sabbath Eve Worship and Oneg Shabbat
This Service will feature special musical highlights by our BJS Musicians and Guests!
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Saturday, June 13 - 10:00 AM
Annual Boston Interfaith GLBT Pride Service- Old South Church (Copley Square).
Co-Sponsored by BJS. Rabbi Berman and Paula Dickerman will be participating.
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Sunday, June 14 - 5:00 PM
BJS Annual Meeting
All Temple Members are urged to join us for this important gathering - we will elect and install new Officers of the Congregation, review the many highlights of our growth and progress over the past year, and preview our exciting plans for our upcoming Fifth Anniversary! Please bring a Pot-Luck entree or side dish for 10 people!
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Friday, June 12 - 6:30 pm
Sabbath Eve Worship followed by Oneg Shabbat Social Hour
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Friday, July 17 - 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Worship
Rabbi Berman will speak on “Summer Spirituality”, sharing reflections on adding special meaning to our vacations with Jewish dimensions to our travel and our poolside reading!
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Friday, August 7 - 6:30 PM
Sabbath Eve Worship
Rabbi Berman will speak on “Monthly Torah Reading Highlights" highlighting the many important themes in the current Sabbath Torah texts from the Book of Deuteronomy. This last of the Five Books of Moses is a summary of the key teachings and narrative of the previous four sections of the Bible, and include texts such as the Shema and the Ten Commandments that are the core ideals of Judaism.
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