Temple Emanuel Teen Choir
2026-03-22 09:00 - 09:30, 2026-03-29 09:00 - 09:30 (America/New_York) | 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
2026-03-22 09:00 - 09:30, 2026-03-29 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→

Matzah Factory for Pre-K to 1st Graders
2026-03-22 09:30 - 10:30 | TE Preschool, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Our Pre-K to 1st graders will have the chance to learn how matzah is made, all the way from growing wheat stalks to the oven. They even get to make their own mini-matzah to eat! We would like to thank Aryeh Laufer from Chabad of Northern Rhode Island for leading this wonderful program.
This event takes place during Religious School, but is open to all TE members. If you are interested in joining, please email Risa.

Before We Forgot: Torah, Memory, and the Angel Lailah with Rabbi Jamie Kotler
2026-03-22 09:45 - 11:15 | Gann Chapel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Jewish tradition teaches that each soul begins its journey bathed in light, knowing the whole Torah — until an angel gently wipes our memory, and sends us into the world to figure it out all for ourselves.
In this class, we’ll explore the story of Lailah, the angel of night and birth, and what she can teach us about memory, forgetting, and wholeness. Through text study and conversation, we’ll reflect on what it means to spend a lifetime remembering what our souls once knew— and the small traces that sacred forgetting leaves behind. All texts will be in English and all are welcome!
This program is for Temple Emanuel members only.
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Temple Emanuel Children's Choir
2026-03-22 12:00 - 12:30, 2026-03-29 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
2026-03-22 12:00 - 12:45, 2026-03-29 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→

TEen Spring Pre-Passover Party
2026-03-22 12:00 - 13:30 | Solomon Youth Lounge, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join your fellow TEens and celebrate spring and enjoy Pre Passover activities, springtime games and tasty food as we gear up for the new season after a long winter. Lunch and snacks will be provided.
$10 per person
Register Here →

Bible & Siddur Hebrew I
2026-03-23 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
2026-03-23 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→

Sisterhood Tuesday Morning Study Group
2026-03-24 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.

Modern Spoken Hebrew V
2026-03-24 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
2026-03-24 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→

36th Annual Project Manna Concert
2026-03-24 19:00 - 21:00 | Rabbi Samuel Chiel Sanctuary, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join us for our 36th Annual Project Manna Concert featuring an array of choirs and singers. Proceeds benefit the Massachusetts Avenue Baptist Church Food Pantry. Don’t miss out on this fantastic evening of music, while doing an important mitzvah!
This year, we will honor Choir Director Eugenia Gerstein‘s 30 years working at Temple Emanuel!
Participating Choirs Include:
• Boston Children’s Chorus• Boston Community Chorus• Boston Jazz Voices• ShenaniGanns – Gann Academy• Shir Shalom – Temple Shalom of Newton• Adult choir – Temple Beth Elohim• Kol Emanuel• Zamira• Emanuel Children’s chorus
Ticket Information:$25 Per Adult$20 Per Student/ Senior
Register→
Proceeds benefit the Massachusetts Avenue Baptist Church Food Pantry

Modern Spoken Hebrew VI
2026-03-24 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
2026-03-25 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

Yisod Chocolate Tasting
2026-03-25 19:30 - 21:00 | Wild Child Chocolate, 260 Elm Street, Somerville, 02144, United States
Join Yisod and Trybal Gatherings Boston for a one-of-a-kind chocolate tasting experience at Wild Child Chocolate! Learn about the chocolate making process from an expert chocolatier, enjoy a tour of the factory, and savor the rich and creamy tastes of a variety of kosher chocolate. Spots are limited, so sign up now!
This event is for adults in their 20s & 30s
Register Here→

Torah for our Times
2026-03-26 09:30 - 10:30 | 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→

Matzah Factory for 2nd to 4th Graders
2026-03-26 15:45 - 17:45 | Adelson Community Hall, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Our 2nd to 4th graders will have the chance to learn how matzah is made, all the way from growing wheat stalks to the oven. They even get to make their own mini-matzah to eat! We would like to thank Aryeh Laufer from Chabad of Northern Rhode Island for leading this wonderful program.
This event takes place during Religious School, but is open to all TE members. If you are interested in joining, please email Risa.

Documentary Showing and Q&A - Eva's Promise
2026-03-26 15:45 - 17:45 | Reisman Hall, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
The Temple Emanuel Religious School we will be showing all the students a documentary called “Eva’s Promise” as part of our Yom Hashoah curriculum. This documentary is the story of a woman named Eva, a friend and neighbor of Anne Frank, who went into hiding from the Nazis. After showing the film, we will be hosting the producer and writer of the film to talk about the process of creating the documentary and to answer the student’s questions.
This program is open to all parents and community members as well.
Register→

Modern Spoken Hebrew III
2026-03-26 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→

Talmud Class with Our Clergy
2026-03-28 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
2026-03-28 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!

Rocking Tot Shabbat with Wayne Potash
2026-03-28 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!

Kitah Daled (4th Grade) Kabbalat Haggadah
2026-03-29 10:30 - 12:00 | Reisman Hall, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Kitah Daled (4th Grade) have been learning about the Passover Seder and preparing a very special showcase for you! Then, each child will receive their very own A Night to Remember Haggadah to take home. Religious School drop-off is at 9:30 as usual, then parents and grown-ups should meet their 4th graders in Gann Chapel at 10:30.

8th & 9th Grade Mock Trial Workshop
2026-03-29 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→

RAD (Rape Aggression Defense) Women's Self Defense Class
2026-03-29 13:00 - 17:00 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Temple Emanuel, in conjunction with the Newton Police Department, is offering a complimentary three part program that no woman should miss!
You will learn both physically how to protect yourself and the importance of awareness in the world. You will walk away feeling empowered and equipped in many situations including those that were never even on your radar!
This is a three part program. Classes will take place on Sundays from 1-5 pm at Temple Emanuel.
March 29th – Benjamin Vestry
April 12th – Room 24/25
April 19th – Reisman Hall
Due to an overwhelmingly positive response, the class is now full. If you would like to add your name to the list for future classes, please contact Joanne Kazarian.
