Summer Bim Bam
Fridays, June 8-August 10 | 10:15-11:00AM, 11:15AM-12:00 noon | BJ Chapel
Bim Bam gives children under 3 a fun space to explore Shabbat through interactive songs and stories, while learning traditions such as lighting candles, saying Kiddush, and giving tzedakah. The 10:15AM session features both English and Hebrew songs, while the 11:15AM class is full Hebrew immersion. The series (nine classes) is $180/$270 (members/non-members). After the first registered child, each additional child receives 50% off. New BJ members attend for free. The program is led by Shira Averbuch. Questions? Email Allison Kapusta. No class on July 6.
Monday Minha Meditation
Mondays through June 25 | 6:30-7:00PM | BJ Chapel
The Center for Prayer and Spirituality is thrilled to launch this new mindfulness initiative. Join us on Monday evenings for a community sit, as we work toward building a sustained communal meditation practice. The Monday Minha Meditations will contain explorations of guided teachings, meditation techniques, and silent sits, and will also provide an opportunity for community members to recite the Mourner’s Kaddish. No registration necessary. Whether you are experienced in meditation or are thinking about beginning a practice, all are welcome.
Steve Shepard in Conversation With Sandee Brawarsky: A Literary Journey to Jewish Identity
Tuesday, June 19 | 7:00PM | BJ Sanctuary
Join BJ members Steve Shepard and Sandee Brawarsky for a lively conversation as they discuss Steve’s new book, A Literary Journey to Jewish Identity: Re-Reading Bellow, Roth, Malamud, Ozick, and Other Great Jewish Writers.
Free for BJ Members / $10 for Non-members
Books will be available for sale on the night, or you can purchase in advance at the BJ Amazon storefront.
Rally for Refugees and Immigrants
Wednesday, June 20 | 5:30PM | Bryant Park — Meet Us at West 42nd Street and 5th Avenue, SW Corner
Lunch Program Volunteers Needed
Thursdays | 11:30AM-1:15PM | Frankel Hall
As we approach the summer, our Judith Bernstein Lunch Program needs extra volunteers to serve our guests and assist with other tasks as needed. Please contact Larissa, lwohl@bj.org, if you are interested and able to help out.
Hakhanah laTefillah
Saturday, June 23 | 8:45-9:25AM | BJ Chapel
Please join Rabbi Roly Matalon to prepare the soul and open the heart for Shabbat morning prayers through the singing of piyutim and reflections on kavannah.
Occupy the Roof: Summer Social Justice Film Series
Tuesdays, June 26, July 10, July 24, August 7, August 21 | 7:00PM | BJ Rooftop
Sponsored by Panim, BJ’s Social Action Social Justice Groups, this film series will celebrate stories of people that shine a light on justice in a changing world. Light refreshments will be served.
Community Forum: Citizen Engagement and the 2018 Election
Thursday, June 28 | 7:30–9:00PM | BJ Sanctuary
Summer Canvassing with JFREJ
Sunday, July 1 | 10:00 AM-2:00PM | Exact Location TBA
We are excited to co-sponsor this day of action with JFREJ. Knock on doors and call your neighbors to discuss issues that impact the everyday lives of New Yorkers, and how we can bring those concerns to the polls this upcoming election season. This day of action will take place in the Bronx at a location accessible by the MTA. Once you’ve signed up, please email Larissa, lwohl@bj.org, so we can keep a count of our BJ participants.
Sponsor a Light Summer Kiddush
Saturdays, July 7 through September 1 | Following Shabbat Morning Services | BJ Community House
During the summer months, we provide a light kiddush of fruit and cookies following Shabbat morning services. If you’re interested in sponsoring a light kiddush, please email Davia or call her at x234.
Summer Yom Iyyun with Hadar
Wednesday, July 18 | 8:30AM to 5:00PM | BJ Chapel
Join Hadar for a day of learning on the topic of Virtue: Who We Are and Why it Matters. Jewish ethics focuses not just on what we do, but on who we are. Character traits are essential to living a moral and holy life. Join us as we explore such questions as: What kind of human beings are we asked to be? What is the relationship between right actions and right intentions? Why is law necessary, but not sufficient to Judaism’s vision of a religious life? Should we assess our leaders primarily by their accomplishments or their character?
Hadar has kindly offered a reduced rate of $65 for BJ members with the case-sensitive discount code BJ65Yi.
Notary Services for BJ Members
Business hours | BJ Community House
Our Human Resources and Administrative Associate, Shakeara Hatchett, is now authorized to provide notary services (for personal or business purposes) to all BJ members. Email Shakeara to set up a notary appointment.
Volunteers Needed for Hesed: Shabbat Connections
Our community is strongest when we care for each other in times of need. Do a deed of lovingkindness by connecting with members of the BJ community who are homebound, lonely, or in need of some extra care. With regular and consistent phone calls we can brighten the days and warm the hearts of those who need it most. Please contact Joni Brenner at ShabbatConnections@bj.org for more information on how you can help.
Meals for New Parents
Service and Hospitality: Volunteer with the Judith Bernstein Lunch Program
Thursdays | 11:30AM-1:00PM | 88th Street Frankel Hall
Every Thursday at BJ we welcome guests into our synagogue for a delicious lunch, friendly companionship, and music performed by a BJ member every other week. Join our lunch program by volunteering and taking part in the warm and welcoming atmosphere we offer to our guests. To learn more about this opportunity or to volunteer contact Larissa Wohl or call x272.