Torah for our Times
2026-01-15 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→

Out of the Darkness: Combat-Related Trauma & The Niv Nirel Center
2026-01-14 18:00 - 19:30 | In Person – Temple Emanuel, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Come hear the remarkable team of Tami Raviv and Dr. Kfir Feffer speak about the pursuit of their common vision – the creation and operation of the Niv Nirel Trauma Center.
Tami Raviv, a leader in Israel’s business community, lost her 27 year-old daughter, Niv, and her future son-in-law, Nirel, in the slaughter at Kfar Aza. She was introduced to Dr. Kfir Feffer, a leading psychiatrist in Haifa after mentioning to a mutual friend her desire to do something for those in trauma – a tribute to Niv and Nirel, both of whom were pursuing careers in helping others in need. Kfir’s reserve service in the IDF found him working with Golani infantry soldiers suffering from combat related PTSD, post October 7, and understood that the skyrocketing needs to help address them.
The Niv Nirel Center, now a reality, is known as a pioneering, world-class trauma and rehabilitation facility, dedicated to providing state-of-the-art treatment to victims of combat-related trauma.
For more information, please contact Sue Rosenbaum.

The Bible Players: Comedy Workshop and Play with Kesher
2026-01-14 17:00 - 18:00 | Reisman Hall, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Kesher will be hosting The Bible Players, a team of “edutainers” using improv and comedy to teach Jewish values to all ages! They will be joining us for workshops during Kesher, and even have a performance at 5:00pm for the entire community!
We would like to thank the Temple Emanuel Sisterhood Fund for their support in this program.

Drop-In Play
2026-01-14 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

Modern Spoken Hebrew VI
2026-01-13 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→

Modern Hebrew I: Speaking Foundations
2026-01-13 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→

Modern Spoken Hebrew V
2026-01-13 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→

Sisterhood Tuesday Morning Study Group
2026-01-13 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.

You, Too, Can Cantillate: Haftarah Edition
2026-01-12 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→

Biblical & Siddur Hebrew V
2026-01-12 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→

Bible & Siddur Hebrew I
2026-01-12 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→

Stars of David Meeting
2026-01-11 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.

ONOT Kayitz Israeli Dance Troupe
2026-01-11 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→

Temple Emanuel Children's Choir
2026-01-11 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→

Kitah Gan (K) Bedtime Shema
2026-01-11 10:45 - 12:00 | TE Preschool, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Parents and caregivers are invited to join the Religious School Gan (Kindergarten) to decorate their own pillowcases with the Shema prayer on them. We will then have our beloved Rabbi Robinson read a story and lead us in a “practice bedtime” following an adult learning session about this special Jewish bedtime routine.
Don’t forget to wear your PJ’s and bring a stuffy! Milk and cookies will be served.
Parents should drop their children off at 9:30 as usual and meet us back in the classrooms at 10:45.
TE Kindergarteners who are not enrolled in the Religious School are invited to join us at 10:45 this special morning. Email rwagner@templeemanuel.com to RSVP.

100 Jewish Brides: Stories from Around the World
2026-01-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Reisman Hall, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Barbara Vinick will discuss her book, 100 Jewish Brides: Stories from Around the World. Recent winner of an Award of Excellence from the Religion Coordinators Council, the book features an amazing array of stories of Jewish brides from 83 countries on 6 continents. Her talk and captivating slideshow highlight diverse customs and rituals related to Jewish weddings now and in the past.
Come in from the winter cold to enjoy a delicious complimentary brunch and a meaningful morning of conversation, culture, and community.
Can’t make it in-person? We will provide a livestream link the week before the event (but no virtual food).
Books can be reserved for $25.
Added bonus! Check out the TE museum for a Jewish marriage exhibit on display in January. 100 Jewish Brides will be available for purchase during the event.
Register→

Join the Jewish Conversation
2026-01-11 10:00 - 11:30 | Reisman Hall, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join the Jewish Conversation! This is for parents and students in 6th grade who are having a B’nei Mitzvah at Temple Emanuel in 2026-2027. we will explore our Jewish values, learn about our services, and more. Each session will begin with food and an opportunity to get to know the families in your cohort, then will transition into a meaningful, discussion-based curriculum led by clergy and staff.
Light breakfast will be served from 9:30-10:00am.
Facilitator Schedule
November 9- Rabbi Michelle Robinson
January 11 – Rav Hazzan Aliza Berger
March 8- Rabbi Wes Gardenswartz
Register→
Contact AJ Helman with any questions!

Yoga Minyan
2026-01-11 09:00 - 10:00 | Virtual
With Michelle Silberman Hubbard, Yoga Instructor
Sundays mornings | 9 – 10 am
Our rabbis taught us that the soul is joined intimately to the body. The two move together and each can be used in the service of God. In this innovative morning minyan we will be using our bodies to pray, our voices to chant, and movement to connect with holiness in a Jewish way. Awaken your senses as you awaken your soul. Expect an uplifting morning service and a great sweat. No previous Yoga or davening experience necessary. Dress for comfort. Bring a yoga mat or towel, a small towel, and water. Time to get up and stretch your body! Grab your mat or towel and join in via Zoom. New participants always welcome!
Zoom link will be provided upon registration.
Register Here→
Sponsored by Sisterhood Temple Emanuel

ONOT Aviv Israeli Dance Troupe
2026-01-11 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→

Temple Emanuel Teen Choir
2026-01-11 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→

Brotherhood College Hockey Night
2026-01-10 18:00 - 21:00 | Agganis Arena, 925 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA, 02215, United States
Join us in attending Brotherhood College Hockey Night on Saturday, January 10, when we watch the Boston University Terriers play the UMass Minutemen at Agganis Arena. The game starts at 6:00 pm and tickets are $23 – great price to see a great game!
After the game we will celebrate the victory with some drinks and food at a nearby establishment.
Register→

Rocking Tot Shabbat with Wayne Potash
2026-01-10 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!

Ruach Shabbat Services: Grades K-6
2026-01-10 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!

Youth Shabbat Morning Service
2026-01-10 09:30 - 12:00 | Rabbi Samuel Chiel Sanctuary, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join us for an incredible Shabbat morning as our teens dazzle us with gorgeous davenning, beautiful Torah reading, and insightful divrei Torah. Led start to finish by Temple Emanuel teens, this service will fill your heart with joy and hope for the future.

Talmud Class with Our Clergy
2026-01-10 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

A Taste of Shabbat Alive
2026-01-09 17:45 - 18:15 | Rabbi Samuel Chiel Sanctuary, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Join us in the Rabbi Samuel Chiel Sanctuary for a musical Kabbalat Shabbat service filled with singing, dancing, and stories, geared specifically for families with young children from birth to age 5. After services, we’ll share a festive Shabbat dinner in Adelson Community Hall – a perfect place to meet other young families!
Registration required.
Register→
Generously supported by the Dr. Trudy Karger Family Education Fund

Yisod Challah Take-n-Bake
2026-01-08 19:00 - 21:00 | Reisman Hall, 385 Ward Street, Newton, MA, 02459, United States
Get ready to mix, knead, and braid! Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, connect with other Yisodniks over the most classic of Jewish traditions and prepare a challah that will be ready to bake in your home—just in time for Shabbat!
Registration deadline: January 6
Register→

Close Reading: Sons and Daughters by Chaim Grade - A Jewish Novel Taught by Dr. Susanne Klingenstein
2026-01-08 18:30 - 19:30 | 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.

Adult Child Support Group
2026-01-08 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.

Modern Spoken Hebrew III
2026-01-08 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→
