B'nai Israel Congregation

“Don’t let your vote be the one that defeats this bill.” On April 9, 1970, the New York State Assembly debated a bill that would create the most expansive abortion law in U.S. history. This event is now featured in a newly released New Yorker Magazine documentary, titled Deciding Vote. It presents how New York State lawmaker George Michaels cast the historic vote to legalize abortion in the state. That vote ended his political career. Following a viewing of the 19-minute film, Rabbi Jim Michaels, son of George Michaels and B’nai Israel congregant, will discuss the documentary and his father’s legacy. If you wish to watch Deciding Vote in advance, you can see it on YouTube. RSVP to juliann.goldman@yahoo.com. All are welcome.

Fleeing from the persecution of a tyrannical Russian czar to the desolate fields of a new world, forty-three families traveled across the ocean in 1882 and established a farming-based community that eventually emerged as the first successful Jewish agricultural settlement in the United States. Produced and directed by Susan Kehnemui Donnelly and filmed by Ted Salins, ALLIANCE is a remarkable story of courage, perseverance, and family against the backdrop of immigration that showcases the impact of this unique social experiment known as the Alliance Colony. Donnelly has a personal connection to the story, as her great-great-grandparents were among the original settlers. For more information and to help support the making of this film, visit www.alliancefilm.com.

Join us for a tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of American History (NMAH) through a Jewish lens. NMAH docent and B’nai Israel member Sylvia Rosenthal will highlight Jewish connections to “the greatest single collection of American history in the world.” Space is limited for each date. Advance registration required.

Join us as we continue our study of 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.

Noar B'Yachad program for Lessans Talmud Torah teens in grades 7 and up.

$36/members; $50/nonmembers While demographic surveys bemoan the decline of the institutions of the Conservative movement, they suggest that the ideology of Conservative Judaism—a centrist approach that values traditional Jewish norms alongside secularizing influences—is alive and well. This short course will explore the history and ideas that created the Conservative movement. Through case studies, we will explore how the halakhic process informs our approach to issues of modernity. Our last session will look to the future and explore the positive and negative ramifications of change. February 13 – The History and Ideas of the Conservative Movement February 20 – Case Study: Driving to the Synagogue on Shabbat February 27 – Case Study: LGBTQ+ March 19 – The Future of Conservative Judaism: Are We Still a Halakhic Movement?

The Purim Spiel will be “The Little Mermaid of Shushan” and will be a Purim-spin on the classic tale. The music and story are recognizable, upbeat and fun and the show has great comedic characters.

The Purim Spiel will be “The Little Mermaid of Shushan” and will be a Purim-spin on the classic tale. The music and story are recognizable, upbeat and fun and the show has great comedic characters.

$150 (Registration includes a hard copy of the textbook and a class Shabbat dinner at Beth El) 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, 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. Presented by The Haberman Institute for Jewish Studies.

Join us on selected Saturday mornings at 9:00 AM for discussions about the weekly Torah parsha. Interested in leading a session? Contact Wendy Fanaroff. September 9 – Nitzavim/Vayeilech with Eric Luftman September 23 – Ha'azinu with Wendy Fanaroff October 14 – Breshit with Alan Siegel October 28 – Lech Lecha with Fonda Lowe November 4 – Vayera with Matt Lowe November 11 – Chaye Sarah with Adrienne Rulnick December 2 – Vayishlach with Rabbi Stone December 16 – Miketz with Judy Saks January 6 – Shemot with Rabbi Safra January 20 – Bo with Larry Kravitz

Everyone in the congregation is invited to hear the story of Purim as our members read Megillat Esther. Cheer for Esther and Mordechai. Boo for Haman. Celebrate the miracle of Purim.