B'nai Israel Congregation

For many years, our Lunch and Learn group has explored the text of the Torah verse-by verse, chapter-by-chapter, book-by-book. We “unpack” not only the more obvious meaning of the words and ideas but how they interface with contemporary issues and our own personal concerns and challenges. This season will be especially meaningful as we complete our study of the Book of Deuteronomy, the last section of the Torah. We will then continue with excerpts from the Book of Joshua, the next text in the biblical sequence. Comments Elie Wiesel: “(Joshua) is the narrative of a stunning adventure, the echoes of which reverberate in our consciousness—and in our newspapers—to this day: a nation still exuberant and young, still homeless, is about to take possession of a territory, still inhabited by other tribes and other entities, in the name of an ancient promise, on the authority of a higher inscrutable will.” As the “regulars” will attest, our conversations are lively, and we are not a “closed club.” Newcomers are always warmly welcomed, as together we discover anew the power of the Bible.

For many years, our Lunch and Learn group has explored the text of the Torah verse-by verse, chapter-by-chapter, book-by-book. We “unpack” not only the more obvious meaning of the words and ideas but how they interface with contemporary issues and our own personal concerns and challenges. This season will be especially meaningful as we complete our study of the Book of Deuteronomy, the last section of the Torah. We will then continue with excerpts from the Book of Joshua, the next text in the biblical sequence. Comments Elie Wiesel: “(Joshua) is the narrative of a stunning adventure, the echoes of which reverberate in our consciousness—and in our newspapers—to this day: a nation still exuberant and young, still homeless, is about to take possession of a territory, still inhabited by other tribes and other entities, in the name of an ancient promise, on the authority of a higher inscrutable will.” As the “regulars” will attest, our conversations are lively, and we are not a “closed club.” Newcomers are always warmly welcomed, as together we discover anew the power of the Bible.

A close examination of the most written about character in the Book of Bereshit. We know more about Joseph than his father, grandfather and great grandfather, who get mentioned in our daily prayers. Why is so much ink spent on Joseph – was he a great man or an opportunist? We will look at the Torah closely to try to find the answers.

A new year and a new tractate of Talmud! Join us to study Tractate Berakhot which includes a comprehensive discussion of the Shema and Amidah, the essential components of the prayer service. Newcomers are more than welcome to join us. No prior knowledge is necessary.

To attend this service, please contact Allison to reserve your space.

The Answers to Your Questions and Then a Whole New Set of Questions A multi-denominational journey into the heart of Judaism taught by seven Metro DC-area rabbis representing the Reform, Conservative and Orthodox movements. No matter your background, the Miller Intro to Judaism Program, developed by American Jewish University, is here to guide you on your Jewish journey. Whether you’re soul-searching or seeking your community, the Intro Program will walk you through Judaism’s big ideas and the nuts and bolts of daily Jewish living. We know you have questions—so do we—and we can’t wait to discuss them all with you. Join us in person or participate online!

Celebrate each month’s birthdays at the end of Youth & Family services with songs and treats!

Now offered almost every week, Family Minyan includes spirited prayer, an engaging Torah reading, and lively conversation about the weekly Torah portion. This service is organized by our shlicha, Netta Asner-Minster, who leads it alongside Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz, and Moshe Ben-Lev, Educational Director.