B'nai Israel Congregation

Classes are in-person only at Temple Beth Ami $150 (Registration fee includes a hard copy of the textbook and a class Shabbat dinner at Temple Beth Ami) Back by popular demand! This is an excellent course for those interested in converting to Judaism, non-Jewish family members wanting to learn more to support their Jewish loved ones, and Jewish adults interested in learning (or relearning!) the basics. A multi-denominational journey into the heart of Judaism taught by Metro DC-area rabbis representing a variety of Jewish affiliations. No matter your background, this course is here to guide you on your Jewish journey. Whether you’re soul-searching or seeking your community, the program will walk you through Judaism’s big ideas and the nuts and bolts of daily Jewish living. Presented by The Haberman Institute for Jewish Studies.

In-Person and Zoom Event With all the news about Jews today: Anti- Semitism in the Diaspora, political strife and popular protest in Israel, the demonization of Israel and Zionism in the Arab world, this may be a good time to revisit the thinking that motivated the early Zionist leaders of the 19th and 20th Centuries. In part one of the class we will review the writings of the early thinkers: Ben-Yehudah, Pinkser, Zunz, Herzl, Nordau, Ginsburg (Ehad Ha’Am). What events were they responding to? What did nationalism and self-determination look like after 2000 years of exilic existence? We will see if their thoughts can help us understand today’s events. Presented by the Haberman Institute for Jewish Studies.

Enjoy a delicious deli dinner as we gather together to say farewell to Shabbat and hello to the week ahead. This program is designed for the entire B’nai Israel community, with programs and activities for members of all ages. Families with nursery school aged children will celebrate with a Pajama Havdalah, where children are invited to wear their pajamas, bring their favorite stuffed animals, and participate in a song-filled Havdalah service. We hope you will join us in saying goodbye to Shabbat and welcoming the new week. Contact Rabbi Berkowitz (301-816-5575, mhberkowitz@bnaiisraelcong.org) with questions.