Temple Emanuel

Close Reading: Sons and Daughters by Chaim Grade - A Jewish Novel Taught by Dr. Susanne Klingenstein
2026-01-15 18:30 - 19:30, 2026-01-26 18:30 - 19:30, 2026-01-29 18:30 - 19:30, 2026-02-05 18:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Virtual
The sharp Yiddish novelist, Chaim Grade, described the falling apart of the orthodox world in Eastern Europe in the 1930s. Sons and daughters of rabbis get out of the shtetl, but the fathers claw them back through guilt. Grade’s characters are incredibly alive; they are goofy, mad, heroic and wise. The novel is long, learned and confusing, so we will read it together at the clip of 50 pages each week, accompanied by one of discussion each week to help understand the religious world of the Lithuanian rabbis.
Class dates: Nov 6, 13, 20, Dec 4, 11, 17, 30, Jan 8, 15, 26, 29, Feb 5
All classes will meet on Zoom.
Cost: (Scholarships available)

$180 for Temple Emanuel Members
$250 for Non-Members
This class is now at capacity.
About Dr. Susanne Klingenstein
Dr. Susanne Klingenstein is an Associate at the Center for Jewish Studies at Harvard University. She served as professor of Writing and Humanistic Studies at MIT, as Lecturer in the Humanities at Harvard Medical School, and as Director of the Communication Curriculum in the Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology. She the author of six books, her new book on Chaim Grade will be published in the spring of 2026. She has offered courses at TE since 2006 and is a popular, sought-after teacher.

You, Too, Can Cantillate: Haftarah Edition
2026-01-19 18:15 - 19:30, 2026-01-26 18:15 - 19:30, 2026-02-02 18:15 - 19:30, 2026-02-09 18:15 - 19:30 | Slater Conference Room, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
While not as ancient as the public reading of the Torah, chanting of the prophets, known as the Haftarah, began in the 1st century CE. Join Hazzan Sheni/Ritual Director Dan Nesson for seven sessions to learn this sacred tradition. A reading knowledge of Hebrew is recommended.
Yes, you, too, can Cantillate!
Class Dates: January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23
Register→

Learn to Lead Weekday Services with Cantor Elias Rosemberg
2026-01-20 18:30 - 19:30, 2026-01-27 18:30 - 19:30, 2026-02-03 18:30 - 19:30, 2026-02-10 18:30 - 19:30 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Learn to lead weekday evening services and understand the order and structure of the service in these classes with Cantor Rosemberg!
Basic Hebrew reading skills necessary.
Class Dates: January 20, 27, February 3, 10
Register→

Shabbat Morning Service with Guest Speaker Robert Leikind
2026-01-24 09:30 - 12:00 | Rabbi Samuel Chiel Sanctuary, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join us for a special Shabbat Service with guest speaker Robert Leikind, Regional Director of AJC New England.
Sermon Topic: Clarity, Courage, and Commitment: Confronting Antisemitism Now
The surge of antisemitism has left many of us unsettled, confused, and struggling to understand what type of Jewish future is possible in the Diaspora. In fact, we can have a large hand in shaping our future, but to do this we first need to better understand the challenge before us.
About Robert Leikind
Rob Leikind has been director of AJC New England since 2008. A child of parents who survived Hitler’s Europe, he grew up with a deeply rooted regard for the opportunity that American democracy affords Jews and other vulnerable minorities. Throughout his career, Rob has been a passionate defender of civil rights, an ardent advocate in the fight against antisemitism and other forms of bigotry, and a vocal proponent of a just and secure future for Israel and its neighbors.
Rob began his career working with Holocaust survivors in Brooklyn, New York. A lawyer by training, he served as an Assistant District Attorney before going on to be Director of the ADL’s Connecticut and Boston offices and Senior Vice President of Hebrew College.
Rob has been a contributor to various media on topics ranging from Israel and anti-Semitism to intergroup relations and civil rights. He received his bachelor’s degree from Vassar College, an M.S. from Columbia University and his J.D. from the Boston College Law School.

Chai 385 Morning Service
2026-01-24 10:45 - 12:00 | Gann Chapel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join us in prayer at 10:45am in the Gann Chapel for a special service led by our 6th graders in Chai385 with Cantor Elias Rosemberg!

A Taste of Ballroom Dancing
2026-01-26 19:30 - 20:15, 2026-02-09 19:30 - 20:15 | Adelson Community Hall, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Why watch Dancing with the Stars when you can be one?
Put on your dancing shoes! Understand the movement of dance and learn the steps from the waltz to the rhumba. Join a 4-class series taught by world-class dance instructor, Tibor Kerekes, owner of TK Dance Studio. With over 20 years of teaching ballroom and Latin dancing, multiple awards and vast certifications, students say that “his zeal inspires them to overcome their inhibitions and become better dancers”.
* No prior dance ability needed* No partners necessary, singles or couples are welcomed.
Class is scheduled for 7:30-8:15pm on:
January 26
February 9
February 23
March 16
Cost: $120 per person
Class size is limited to 26 people – register today!
Register→
If you have any questions about the class or the instructor, please contact Kathy Rogozinski.

Sisterhood/ Brotherhood Sponsored Community Shabbat Dinner
2026-01-30 19:30 - 21:30 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Come to Shabbat Alive at 6:30pm followed by a joyous and festive Shabbat dinner in Adelson Community Hall at 7:30pm. We will schmooze, share, and connect with each other over friendships made and continued.
There will be a special short performance by our Brotherhood’s choir Misparachim in celebration of Shabbat Shira.
The entire Temple Emanuel Community is invited to attend!
Open seating; groups of five or more may reserve a table. Tables with Sisterhood and Brotherhood hosts will also be available.
Register→
For more information, please contact Marcie Abramson.

Shabbat Shira
2026-01-31 09:30 - 12:00 | Rabbi Samuel Chiel Sanctuary, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join us this Shabbat morning for an extraordinary musical celebration of Shabbat Shira, the Shabbat of Song. This special Shabbat, which features the reading of Shirat HaYam, the Song of the Sea, and Shirat Devorah, Devorah the Prophet’s poetic praise, is always a highlight! This year we’ll be celebrating the amazing musical compostions of our fabulous artist-in-residence, Jeremiah Klarman. Come lift your voices together with our clergy and our wonderful Temple Emanuel choirs: Kol Emanuel, Zamira, and the Children’s Chorus. Come for service, stay for a delightfully delicious kiddush!

A Night of Music and Shmoozing with Minyan Ma'or
2026-01-31 19:00 - 21:30 | Reisman Hall, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join Minyan Ma’or for a fun and entertaining evening filled with lively music and good times! Experience inspiring performances by our talented members, let your voice shine in spirited sing-alongs, and enjoy great conversation along with casual refreshments as you mingle with fellow community members.
The event is open to all, including families with teens and older kids.
NOTE: There will be no babysitting provided
Register→

Finding Esther: A Creative Journey Through Illuminations
2026-02-01 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-02-08 10:00 - 12:00 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Sponsored by Returning The Sparks
In this hands-on visual art class, we will consider the imagery surrounding Purim through a personal lens. Starting with images of the large collection of Illuminated Esther’s Scrolls from the fabulous online archive of the Center of Jewish Art we will conduct visual journeys into the imagery. We will use simple but effective techniques of adding, subtracting, layering, and obscuring imagery to investigate the historical art from a variety of perspectives while tracing a path to original creations. No prior art experience necessary, all materials provided. The teacher will provide individual creative and technical support for each participant to pursue their own unique vision.
February 1 @ 10:00am – Adelson Community Hall
February 8 @ 10:00am – Benjamin Vestry
Register→

TE Connects: Small Groups Launch Party
2026-02-01 10:30 - 12:00 | Reisman Hall, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
This event is for Temple Emanuel members only.
Join us for a fun morning with food, raffle and activities to learn more about becoming part of a small group at TE. Establishing connections through small groups will help insure the future for TE for another 90 years!
Registration for the launch party is now closed, walk-ins are welcome.
Complete the survey HERE by February 8th!
Questions or need more info? Please contact committee co-chairs at teconnects@templeemanuel.com.

Stars of David Meeting
2026-02-01 12:30 - 14:30 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
The Stars of David is a group of adults with disabilities that meet for fun and spirited Jewish themed activities at Temple Emanuel. The group ages 30-70, meets one Sunday per month, and always includes lunch.
New participants are warmly welcomed by all including our many volunteers! Come see for yourself! Aides and family members are also welcome as needed and you need not be a Temple Emanuel member to attend. RSVPs for each meeting are appreciated.
For further information and to confirm the starting time for each meeting (sometimes we start at noon), please contact Debbie Sussman at templestarsofdavid@gmail.com or call (617) 620-8384.

Tu Bishvat Seder
2026-02-01 18:00 - 19:30 | Reisman Hall, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Please join us for a community Tu Bishvat Seder! Enjoy a wonderful light meal, fruits, wine or grape juice, and comradery, while experiencing the meaning of this ancient pre-spring festival.
View the booklet here!
Register→

Brotherhood Wellness Series: Intelligent Aging
2026-02-02 18:00 - 19:30 | Benjamin Vestry, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Intelligent Aging is a philosophical approach based on the latest research in biogerontology. It focuses on educating adults who believe that aging is an opportunity for lifelong learning and what might be possible today in creating a more resilient person with each passing year.
Schedule:
6:00 pm – Light Dinner
6:30 pm – Lecture and Q&A
About the Speaker
Bryan Agurcia is an Intelligent Aging Strategist focused on educating adults on how to use the process of aging to grow, learn and thrive throughout their lifetime. He has formal training in exercise physiology and gerontology from the University of New Orleans.
Register HERE

First Friday @ Shabbat Alive! Winter Celebration
2026-02-06 18:30 - 20:30 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Cold outside? It’s warm in shul! Join us on Friday, February 6th, for a warm evening of uplifting prayer and song followed by our First Friday Winter Celebration with hot drinks and soup bar.
What is First Friday? Start with an inspiring musical Shabbat Alive! Service in the Rabbi Samuel Chiel Sanctuary, then stay for a beautiful post-service Oneg filled with delicious food and fellowship.
Who is First Friday for? First Fridays are for everyone, age 0 on up!
Why come to First Friday? To lift your spirit. To be inspired by ancient words animated with new melodies. To connect with a community of friends – old and new. To stand generation to generation, together.
View the First Friday 2025-26 Calendar HERE→

Shabbat Morning Service with Guest Speaker Adrian Gonzalez: 30 Years to “I am Jewish”
2026-02-07 09:30 - 12:00 | Rabbi Samuel Chiel Sanctuary, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Over the last 30 years, Adrian Gonzalez met and married his beloved, Leslie, joined Temple Emanuel, raised four wonderful children, and celebrated their bnei mitzvah right here on the Rabbi Samuel Chiel bimah. For all of this time, Adrian has been on his own spiritual journey. This year, he made the decision to officially join the Jewish people. Join us this Shabbat in the Rabbi Samuel Chiel Sanctuary or virtually via livestream as Adrian shares about his journey and about the love that brought him into the covenant.

SPACE Family Havdalah
2026-02-07 18:00 - 19:30 | Leventhal-Sidman Community Court, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join us in the Leventhal-Sidman Community Court for a spirited family Havdalah service led by Cantor Rosemberg and our Religious School Kitah Bet (2nd grade) class.
THEN, learn about Dr. Jeffrey Hoffman, a local Jewish astronaut, by watching the documentary film, SPACE TORAH (25 min), followed by Q & A with the film’s executive producer, Rachel Raz! You can learn more about the film here.
Younger children can choose to participate in an interactive story-time during the film. Space-themed crafts and activities will be available to all.
Program is free of charge, and RSVP appreciated. We are no longer taking preorders for pizza but a limited amount will be available for purchase at the event.
Register→
This film is the story of how Dr. Jeffrey Hoffman realized a childhood dream by becoming an astronaut; how he was a key member of the spacewalking team that made critical repairs to the Hubble Space Telescope; how his own faith journey evolved as he took various Jewish objects on his five Space Shuttle missions; how his community came together to make it possible for that small Torah to be with him on his final flight, when we read from the book of Genesis while soaring through space “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”

World Wide Wrap Morning Service
2026-02-08 08:00 - 09:00 | Gann Chapel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
On January 28th 2001, the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs launched the World Wide Wrap, a global event uniting World Jewry by engaging in the Mitzvah of Tefilin. Held annually on Super Bowl Sunday, World Wide Wrap Day reminds us that Tefilin connect our heads, hands and hearts.
On Sunday February 8th, celebrate this iconic day by either joining us in the Gann Chapel for Minyan at 8:00 am, or with our Religious School at 9:30 am. Sets of Tefilin are available at both services.
To learn how Tefilin are worn, please click here.

World Wide Wrap Learner's Minyan & Brunch
2026-02-08 09:30 - 12:00 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
For grades 5-8 and open to all!
Get ready to wrap and roll!
Celebrate World Wide Wrap Day by participating in the mitzvah of wrapping tefillin with our community.
5th-7th graders and their parents are invited to a special learner’s morning minyan service followed by a bagel and lox brunch and learn. Students in 8th-12th grade as well as “curious-about-tefillin” adults are encouraged to join us as well.
9:30-10:00 The wrapping begins
10:00-11:00 Learner’s Service in Gann Chapel
11:00-11:45 Brunch and Learn
5th and 6th graders will use the tefillin they hand-make at Religious School prior to the program.
7th graders should bring their tefillin they received their bar/bat mitzvah year as well as the tallit they made in 6th grade.
8th graders and up should bring any tefillin or tallit they may have. Some pairs will be available to borrow.
For food ordering purposes, RSVP is appreciated if you or your child are not part of the grades 5-7 Religious School community. Please email Risa to RSVP.
This program is generously made possible by the Temple Emanuel Brotherhood.
