Temple Emanuel

Torah for our Times
2025-10-23 09:30 - 10:30 (America/New_York) | Virtual
With Rabbi Michelle Robinson
While some of the difficulties we face today are new, grappling with an uncertain world is an age-old challenge. Our Jewish tradition offers us a timeless toolbox of traditional texts that offer us ancient wisdom we can apply to our modern challenges. Join us each Thursday morning as we grapple with the big questions of who we are and how we might craft a life worth living.
NEW THIS YEAR: Each week we explore a compelling story from the Talmud through the eyes of commentators whose insights can spark our own.
Our class takes place on zoom – whether you’re in Newton, New York, Nevada, or anywhere else around the world, come learn with us!
Register and join us on Zoom here.
View the 2025-26 calendar HERE→

Seated Zumba Gold
2025-10-23 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
With Ketty Rosenfeld
Thursday mornings
Session Dates: Sept 11, 25; Oct 23, 30; Nov 6, 13, 20; Dec 4, 25; Jan 8, 22, 29; Feb 5, 12, 19, 26; March 5, 12, 19; April 16, 23, 30; May 21, 28
Join us Online via Zoom
Meeting ID: 871 2457 6849
We are grateful for the Temple Emanuel Senior Fund for supporting Zumba Gold this season. No RSVP needed – No Charge – All are welcome. Questions? Please contact Tracy Schneider.

Memory Cafe
2025-10-23 12:15 - 14:00 | Reisman Hall, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
What is a Memory Café? A memory café is a model of social programming that provides an inviting place for people with forgetfulness or other changes in their thinking – and their family/friends!
Please RSVP for the lunch programs to Tracys120@yahoo.com
*CHANGE OF DATE* Dec 5 – Sing Along with Ruth Rappaport
Join singer/guitarist Ruth Rappaport for a festive Sing Along with song sheets to prompt.
Lunch at 12:15pm sponsored by Bette and Phil Levine. Program at 1pm.
Jan 8 – Celebrate the Art of the Tree in honor of Tu Bishvat with Michele Marram
Join us in multiple projects to make images with trees in honor of Tu Bishvat.
Michele Marram (M.A., M.L.S.) is a research librarian and art educator who leads interactive Artist Workshops for multiple ages. Through her presentations and hands-on workshops attendees explore both the historical context and style of the subject’s life and creative works.
Lunch at 12:15pm sponsored by the Temple Emanuel Senior Fund. Program at 1pm.
Feb 5 – Special Adapted Exercises Bingo with prizes
Lunch at 12:15pm sponsored by Claire Farkas in memory of her beloved husband George, and by the Temple Emanuel Senior Fund. Program at 1pm.

Memory Café is proudly co-presented by Temple Emanuel Senior Fund and the Deanna and Sidney Wolk Center for Memory Health at Hebrew SeniorLife

Modern Spoken Hebrew III
2025-10-23 17:00 - 18:00 | Virtual
Spoken Modern Hebrew: Everyday Language for Life and Legacy
This continuing course welcomes all learners at an equivalent level. Together, we read, write, speak, and listen in Hebrew—building practical skills for everyday life and deepening our connection to the language.
It’s a golden opportunity to model Hebrew for our children and grandchildren, while also supporting cognitive health and brain function.
Newcomers: We’d love to welcome you! To assess your level and join the course, please reach out to Sigalit.
Session Dates
Session 1: Oct 16, 23, 30; Nov 6, 13, 20; Dec 4
Session 2: Dec 11, 18; Jan 8, 15, 22, 29; Feb 5
Session 3: Feb 12, 26; Mar 5, 12, 19, 26; Apr 16
Session 4: Apr 23, 30; May 4, 14, 28; June 4, 11
Register→

Adult Child Support Group
2025-10-23 18:30 - 19:30 | Virtual
Thursday evenings | 6:30 – 7:30 pm on Zoom
Are you caring for an aging parent? Are you looking for local resources and support?
Join us for monthly discussions on all topics about managing the care of our parents and maintaining our own expectations. We will have guest speakers set up by the team at Adelaide, a Benchmark community.
Register Here→
For the best experience, participants are encouraged to attend regularly. There is no cost to attend- but registration is required. Questions? Please contact Tracy Schneider.
This series is sponsored by Adelaide and co-presented by TE senior fund.

Bereavement Group
2025-10-23 20:00 - 21:00 | Virtual
This bereavement group is open to adult children who have lost an elder parent or elder spouses who have lost a spouse, partner or friend within the last year.
Disclaimer: We ask that all dialogue and information shared during the group discussion remain confidential to the participants.
There is no cost to attend- but registration is required. This series is open to Temple Emanuel members as well as the greater community.
Session Dates: October 23rd & 30th, November 6th & 13th on Zoom
Call Tracy Schneider at 617-959-4928 or email Tracys120@yahoo.com for the zoom link and registration.
Nikki Stournaras, MTS, Four units clinical pastoral education, St. Vincent Hospital, Worcester. Reiki Master. Nikki has been with West River Care for nine years as a Spiritual Care Coordinator/Bereavement facilitator. She has nine bereavement groups. She lives in Framingham with her husband Nicholas. She has three children and seven grandchildren. She is involved with community outreach and loves meeting new people and hearing their stories.
Bereavement Group is sponsored by West River Care.
West River Care is part of the Wingate Collective and provides home health, hospice, and private duty services wherever you call home. We believe every day should be lived to its fullest. Let us help you achieve just that.

Community Shabbat Dinner
2025-10-24 18:30 - 21:00 | Adelson Community Hall, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join us for a joyous Fall Community Shabbat Dinner on Friday, October 24th as we come together to celebrate Shabbat with great food and community spirit. Enjoy a delicious meal and connections with others from our Temple Emanuel Family.
The program will begin with Shabbat Alive services at 6:30 pm. We will then all join together for dinner in Adelson Community Hall. Special reserved tables will be available for all new 2025-26 TE members. We look forward to seeing you.
Pricing:
Adults: $36 each
Children: $18 each
Registration is now closed. Please reach out to LauraSue HERE to join the waitlist.

Talmud Class with Our Clergy
2025-10-25 08:30 - 09:20 | Hybrid (In Person and Virtual Options), 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Start Shabbat each week with a special hour of learning and discussion on a variety of Jewish issues with Wes, Michelle, Elias, Aliza and Dan as our clergy team connects the lessons of our sacred texts with the realities of our lives. The clergy team will close with a song that leads into Shabbat morning services at 9:30.
Join us on livestream in the Rabbi Samuel Chiel Sanctuary

Ruach Shabbat Services: Grades K-6
2025-10-25 10:45 - 12:00 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
For Grades K-6. Join Jon Tatelman on Shabbat morning in Room 22 at Temple Emanuel for a fun children’s service!

Tot Shabbat
2025-10-25 11:00 - 11:45 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join us for a fabulous Tot Shabbat service geared towards children from birth to age 5! We will sing our favorite songs, create beautiful crafts, and have challah and grape juice. After the service, we’ll all go up onto the bimah for a special treat!

Rocking Tot Shabbat with Wayne Potash
2025-10-25 11:00 - 11:45 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join us for a special Rock n’ Roll Tot Shabbat with rockstar Wayne Potash! In this fabulous service, we have prayerful songs and games perfect for children from birth to age 5 and their parents. Join us for the service and then stay for a delicious lunch with friends!

Cradles to Crayons Clothing Drive
2025-10-26 - 2025-11-09 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Have clothes for kids ages 0-12 that you don’t need anymore? Come donate new or gently used: Clothing, Jackets, Shoes, PJ, Socks (new), and Underwear (new)! There will be donation bins in the front vestibule and next to the Rabbi Marshall R. Lifson Library. Help families to get the everyday essentials their children need!
There will be an event on November 9th for 6th-8th graders to help sort all the donations!

Temple Emanuel Teen Choir
2025-10-26 09:00 - 09:30 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Calling all 6th-12th graders who love to sing and make music! Perform at holiday and concert events. All levels welcome.
Meets right before Religious School, but any Temple Emanuel teen can participate. Morning snack provided!
Register→

ONOT Aviv Israeli Dance Troupe
2025-10-26 09:00 - 09:30 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
ONOT Aviv is Temple Emanuel’s premiere Israeli Dance Troupe for children in grades 2-5!
(ONOT means “seasons” and Aviv means “Spring”)
Students will learn Harkeda (popular, just-for-fun) dances as well as a choreographed routine that will be performed at the Israel Folkdance Festival of Boston and at the Zimkudiyah! They might even pick up some Hebrew along the way!
ONOT Alumna, Ruthie Holzer will be instructing the class with the help of Temple Emanuel dance teacher, Avi Wald.
Tuition is included with Religious School tuition, apart from a $25 t-shirt/costume fee. $180 for students outside of the Religious School. Beginners welcome!
Register→

8th & 9th Grade Mock Trial Workshop
2025-10-26 11:00 - 12:00 | Slater Conference Room, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Learn about the biggest debates in Judaism from the Talmud and beyond with Rabbi Wes Gardenswartz!
Meets monthly in Slater conference room. Snack provided.
Register→

Temple Emanuel Children's Choir
2025-10-26 12:00 - 12:30 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
For any Temple Emanuel children in grades 1-5 who love to sing! Work with Morah Eugenia Gerstein on making beautiful music together.
Meets directly after Religious School (but open to all) from 12:00-12:30. Snack provided!
Register→

ONOT Kayitz Israeli Dance Troupe
2025-10-26 12:00 - 12:45 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
ONOT Kayitz is Temple Emanuel’s premiere Israeli Dance Troupe for teens in grades 6-12!
(ONOT means “seasons” and Kayitz means “Summer”)
Students will learn Harkeda (popular, just-for-fun) dances as well as a choreographed routine that will be performed at the Israel Folkdance Festival of Boston and at the Zimkudiyah! They might even pick up some Hebrew along the way.
ONOT Alumni, Eliana Blankstein and Daniella Bunch will be instructing the class with the help of Temple Emanuel dance teacher, Avi Wald.
$180 includes instruction, costume rental and t-shirt and snacks!
Register→

Family Ice Skating with Brotherhood
2025-10-26 12:15 - 14:00 | Warrior Ice Arena, 90 Guest Street, Boston, MA, 02135, United States
Immediately after Religious School, bring your child with you for An Afternoon of family fun! Public ice skating at Warrior Ice Arena in Brighton!
Public skating starts at 12:30pm and ends at 1:50pm. Warrior has “ice walkers” for children and adult beginners as well as skate rentals ($6) for those who need to rent. Adults and children are both welcome. We’ll provide lunch at Warrior so everyone can grab a bite before skating.
Only $9 per person including admission and lunch!
Register→

Teen Fall Hike Up Cold Spring Park
2025-10-26 13:00 - 15:00 | Cold Spring Park, 1094 Beacon Street, Newton Highlands, MA, 02461, United States
Join us at Cold Spring Park for a beautiful fall hike with your friends from TE. We will gather at the parking lot near the tennis courts and take a loop (or two) around the trail, shoot baskets, play soccer or other lawn games and enjoy the fall weather*. Snacks and water will be provided.
No cost but RSVP required.
Please provide your own transportation to and from the park.
*In case of rain we will have a youth lounge hangout with indoor games and fun at the synagogue
Register→

Women's Clothing & Goods Swap
2025-10-26 16:00 - 18:00 | Benjamin Vestry, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Ladies – looking to mix up your wardrobe but also trying to not spend any money? Let’s go through our closets and swap items!
Bring in 2-3 items (clothing, purses, shoes, accessories, even small home goods) that you don’t want anymore to Temple Emanual on Sunday, October 26th from 4-6pm. We’ll shop each other’s giveaways and take what we like. Anything that is leftover afterward, Shira and Julia, your event hosts and Professional Organizers, will take to a donation center.
Make sure to bring a bag for the items you’d like to take (you can reuse the bag that you brought items in). Email Shira at contact@set-things-straight.com with any questions!

Bible & Siddur Hebrew I
2025-10-27 15:30 - 16:30 | Virtual
How does Hebrew used for liturgical purposes differ from Modern Hebrew?
Pronunciation varies across ethnic traditions, and globalization has influenced the way Hebrew is spoken and understood today. In this course, learners will build a strong foundation for engaging with Jewish texts—including prayers, the Torah, the Bible, and more.
Session Dates

Session 1: Oct 20, 27; Nov 3, 10, 17; Dec 1, 8
Session 2: Dec 22, 29; Jan 5, 12, 26; Feb 2, 9
Session 3: Feb 23; Mar 9, 16, 23, 30; Apr 13, 20
Session 4: May 4, 11, 18; June 1, 8, 15, 22

Register→

Biblical & Siddur Hebrew V
2025-10-27 17:30 - 18:30 | Virtual
This group is dedicated to deepening our understanding of Torah, Haftara, and Prayers—texts that form the bedrock of Modern Spoken Hebrew in Israel. These sacred sources have played a vital role in the revival and survival of Hebrew, sustaining its transmission MiDor L’Dor (from generation to generation).
New participants are warmly welcomed! If you’re joining us for the first time, please ensure you have the necessary background knowledge. We’re here to support your journey and help you find your place in the learning community. Contact Sigalit with any questions.
Session Dates

Session 1: Oct 20, 27; Nov 3, 10, 17; Dec 1, 8
Session 2: Dec 22, 29; Jan 5, 12, 26; Feb 2, 9
Session 3: Feb 23; Mar 9, 16, 23, 30; Apr 13, 20
Session 4: May 4, 11, 18; June 1, 8, 15, 22

Register→

You, Too, Can Cantillate: Learn to Read Torah
2025-10-27 18:15 - 19:30 | Slater Conference Room, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
There is a rich history to Torah Cantillation. During these sessions you will learn not only methodology, but the history behind the creation of the cantillation system. At the conclusion. anyone who so wishes will have the opportunity to chant Torah on a Shabbat morning, Shabbat Mincha, or weekday morning service.
A reading knowledge of Hebrew is required.
Session Dates: October 20, 27, November 3, 10, 17, 24
Register→
View the teaser below!

Sisterhood Tuesday Morning Study Group
2025-10-28 09:30 - 10:30 | Virtual
With Rabbi Wes Gardenswartz

The theme of Tuesday Sisterhood Torah study is the power of “And.” How two things that are in direct conflict with one another can both be true. That is true in life. That is true in Torah study. Solomon was the wisest King and the author of Song of Songs, Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. And Solomon violated all the Torah’s rules about a Jewish king. The Torah says not too many horses, Solomon had too many horses. Not too much silver and gold, Solomon had too much silver and gold. Not too many foreign wives as they will turn the King’s heart towards the worship of false Gods. Solomon has too many wives and they turned him into an idolater.
We will study the Torah, and we will think about our lives, through the evocative lens of “And”.

Join in on Zoom.

L’Chaim
2025-10-28 12:15 - 14:00 | Hybrid (In Person and Virtual Options), 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
All are welcome to join us on Tuesdays to connect with friends and be inspired!
Contact Tracy Schneider at tracys120@yahoo.com to RSVP and for more information.
Dec 23 in Reisman Hall – Annual L’Chaim Holiday Hannukah Party! Featuring Steve Siagel, Followed by lighting of the menorah
Come schmooze & wish your friends a Chag Sameach!
About Steve Siagel: Steve’s love for Jewish music comes from his late father Lou Siagel, who was a violinist, and the music director here at Temple Emanuel for 27 years. Lou led a professional choir of vocalists for Friday night services, and the High Holidays. Steve continues L’dor V’dor following in his father’s footsteps by sharing his love of music with others.
Steve Siagel is the owner of Siagel Productions, an entertainment and event planning company which he founded in 1976. He is regarded as a pioneer in the Disc Jockey industry in Boston. Steve is a graduate of Boston University’s School of Fine Arts where he earned a bachelor’s degree in piano and musical composition. As an accomplished pianist Steve began his entertainment business by performing Jewish music at bar mitzvah events and offering disc jockey services for kids’ parties.
12:15pm Latkes and catered lunch1:00pm Program
Kosher catered lunch by Gourmet Catering By AndrewLunch is fully sponsored from generous donations by 1 Wingate Way East and West River Care in appreciation for the senior programming.
Jan 6, 13, 27 on Zoom – Talking About Senior Sex with Joan Price
Well known Senior-Sex Coach and Activist, Author of trailblazing Naked at Our Age: Talking Out Loud About Senior Sex
Tuesdays at 8pm on zoom, January 2026
This is a lecture-style event and participants should not be sharing their personal/sexual information.
You may submit questions beforehand to Tracy as well as enter questions on the chat.
Please RSVP to Tracys120@yahoo.com for program zoom link.
Jan 13 in Reisman Hall – Book Talk with guest Jill Ebstein, TE member & author
Jill Ebstein, TE Member, Marketing Consultant and Newton Author of two new books as well as the “AT MY PACE” collection of books, wherein ordinary women share important stories.
Book 1: Alfred’s Journey to Be Liked
Book 2: Hannah’s Journal to Be Happy
We will delve into the teenage characters portrayed in the books listed above and relate those characters to our real lives and how we face the world. Like the protagonist Hannah in Hannah’s Journey, we can ask ourselves if we can…
• Scrap a to-do list and relax.
• Record moments of anger and ask whether we voiced our feelings and felt heard.
How can we decode social cues…body language…eye contact…
Can you face your fears?
Do you feel the burden of perfection?
Do you wish you had do overs in your life ?
Join us for lunch and discussion. RSVP is required to Tracy at Tracys120@yahoo.com
Feb 3, 10, 17 on Zoom – Jewish Women Portrayed in Film with Debra Block
6:30pm-7:30pm
We recommend watching the following films in advance of each presentation
SESSION 1: Hester Street (watch here) – Gitl (Carol Kane), a young Jewish orthodox woman, comes to America in the 1890’s only to discover that her husband Jake (Steven Keats) has given up the ways of the old country, and taken up with a new girlfriend, and a new life! Gitl faces the New World with strength and grace!
SESSION 2: Crossing Delancey (watch here)– Izzy Grossman faces two romantic choices reflecting two conflicting aspects of her life…uptown world where she works and the traditional world of her grandmother where Izzy lives on the Lower East Side. In Marjorie Morningstar & Goodbye Columbus, both women are using their romantic involvement with men to challenge the middle-class values of their parental homes.
SESSION 3: Today, the portrayal of Jewish women in film and television is undergoing a shift, moving away from one-dimensional caricatures toward more nuanced, self-defined, and diverse characters. While traditional, negative stereotypes persist, the rise of Jewish women in creative roles behind the camera is driving a “renaissance” in representation. We will give examples of these portrayals in films such as Unorthodox (watch here) and in several television programs.
About the facilitator, Debra Block, Artistic Director and Creator, DGB Productions
Debra Block is the Artistic Director and Creator of DGB Productions. She presents educational programs on film, theatre and culture to age 55+ senior communities. Debra possesses a strong Jewish identity, having lived and taught in Israel for two years, and has directed numerous musical theater productions focusing on Jewish themes. She has taught English and theater at Shaloh House, a Jewish Day School and has been contracted by various synagogues and Jewish community centers to develop meaningful theatrical experiences. She graduated BA cum laude in psychology with a performing arts minor. After graduating college, she continued her studies at the Master’s level in the performing arts and in Judaism.
Please email Tracys120@yahoo.com to register. Zoom info will be provided upon registration.

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DUES are $18 per person. Please consider making a small donation of appreciation to the L’CHAIM Group. Please mail checks of any donation to Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA 02459, ATTN: Eileen Rose/Controller. Please make checks payable to TEMPLE EMANUEL. In memo line please write L’CHAIM GROUP.

Modern Spoken Hebrew V
2025-10-28 14:00 - 15:00 | Virtual
The Sisterhood team continues to thrive—we are an active, engaged force!
Thank you for your leadership in making Hebrew a meaningful part of our community. We welcome new participants who meet the prerequisites.
Newcomers: To assess your level and join us, please reach out to Sigalit for guidance. We’re excited to help you find your place.
Session Dates
Session 1: Oct 21, 28; Nov 4, 11, 18; Dec 2, 9
Session 2: Dec 23; Jan 6, 13, 27; Feb 3, 10, 24
Session 3: Mar 10, 17, 24; Apr 14, 21, 28; May 5
Session 4: May 19, 26; June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Register→

Modern Hebrew I: Speaking Foundations
2025-10-28 17:00 - 18:00 | Virtual
Modern Spoken Hebrew: A Journey of Language and Culture
This course invites you to explore Modern Spoken Hebrew through reading, writing, speaking, singing, and listening—with a strong emphasis on comprehension. Whether you’re connecting to your heritage, preparing to travel to Israel, or simply curious about Israeli culture, this program offers a meaningful path forward.
You’ll build bridges across generations, deepen your understanding of Jewish identity, and even give your brain a healthy workout. We start from the basics and progress at the group’s pace, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all learners.
Session Dates
Session 1: Oct 21, 28; Nov 4, 11, 18; Dec 2, 9
Session 2: Dec 23; Jan 6, 13, 27; Feb 3, 10, 24
Session 3: Mar 10, 17, 24; Apr 14, 21, 28; May 5
Session 4: May 19, 26; June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Register→

Sisterhood Craft Night at Knot & Purl
2025-10-28 18:30 - 20:30 | Knot & Purl, 17 Lincoln Street, 2nd Floor, Newton Highlands, MA, 02461, United States
Join Sisterhood for an evening of art, food, and drinks at Newton’s newest craft studio, Knot & Purl. No art/craft experience or skill necessary–our amazing instructor will lead our project!
Register→
For Questions, contact Michelle Sandals.

Modern Spoken Hebrew VI
2025-10-28 20:00 - 21:00 | Virtual
Continuing the Journey: The Torch Holder Cohort
We move forward with joy and pride as part of the Torch Holder Cohort—dedicated learners committed to deepening their Hebrew through speaking, writing, reading, singing, and observing.
Language acquisition is a meaningful struggle, and reaching the intermediate level is no small feat. This group embraces the challenge with heart and determination.
Thank you to our inspiring leader for guiding us in this journey of Hebrew learning. Newcomers: If you’re ready to join, please reach out to Sigalit to assess your level. We’d love to welcome you into the cohort.
Session Dates
Session 1: Oct 21, 28; Nov 4, 11, 18; Dec 2, 9
Session 2: Dec 23; Jan 6, 13, 27; Feb 3, 10, 24
Session 3: Mar 10, 17, 24; Apr 14, 21, 28; May 5
Session 4: May 19, 26; June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Register→

Drop-In Play
2025-10-29 15:30 - 17:30 | Housman Activity Center, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join us for Drop-In Play to help your little one burn off excess energy in our Housman Activity Center!
Register Today!
This program is generously sponsored by the Cindy Levinson Fund for Parenting Education
