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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240906T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240906T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240827T163038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240828T201954Z
UID:31258-1725616800-1725620400@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Clergy Talk: Messiah or Martyrdom: Religion and Violence in the Name of God
DESCRIPTION:Join Rabbi Jay Stein of Greenburgh Hebrew Center for this month’s Clergy Talk (formerly Challenging Times\, Ageless Insights). \nEach month\, we feature meaningful conversations with Rivertowns clergy. Your voice matters and makes these conversations all the more valuable. These are on the first Friday of every month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/clergy-talk-messiah-or-martyrdom-religion-and-violence-in-the-name-of-god/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Common-Ground-Interfaith-Dialogue-Messiah.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240912T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240912T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240827T154641Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240828T202117Z
UID:31254-1726135200-1726138800@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Interfaith Dialogue: People of Faith and The Election: Gun Control\, Abortion\, Economy\, Immigration\, Character
DESCRIPTION:We may not all agree with the correct solutions to every problem in our country\, but can we agree on what the problems are? In this session\, Reverend Evans and Rabbi Stein will explore what our sacred traditions believe are the important issues that should guide our decisions when we enter the voting booth. \nThis is part of the Common Ground: Interfaith Dialogue series. Rabbi Jay Stein\, Greenburgh Hebrew Center\, and Rev. Gareth Evans\, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church of Irvington\, come together for an enlightening conversation to build bridges across real and perceived differences. Your participation as a “fly on the wall” and/or an engaged conversationalist is welcome. These are on the 2nd Thursday of every month. 
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/interfaith-dialogue-people-of-faith-and-the-election-gun-control-abortion-economy-immigration-character/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Common-Ground-Interfaith-Dialogue.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240913T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240913T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240827T175609Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240905T160156Z
UID:31279-1726221600-1726225200@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Can I Have a Do Over? Please?
DESCRIPTION:Join with Rabbi Ron Symons in uncovering the importance of mulligans or do overs not just in sports and games but also in the most important moments of life. This conversation is inspired by the Jewish New Year and will expand into our everyday lives no matter your faith tradition. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, will lead an interactive guided conversation about life that weaves general spirituality with a Jewish lens. We end our time together with a little grape juice and challah. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.  \nfor more Jewish Life events\, click here
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-can-i-have-a-do-over-please/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240920T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240920T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240827T180008Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240828T202138Z
UID:31282-1726826400-1726830000@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Apologies are So 20th Century!
DESCRIPTION:Join with Rabbi Ron Symons in exploring the power of authentic apologies and the damage of inauthentic apologies. Think about the last time you received a really good apology… How long ago was it? This conversation is inspired by the Jewish practice of apologizing on Yom Kippur and will expand into our everyday lives no matter your faith tradition. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, will lead an interactive guided conversation about life that weaves general spirituality with a Jewish lens. We end our time together with a little grape juice and challah. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month. 
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-apologies-are-so-20th-century/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240927T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240927T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240827T180324Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240828T202156Z
UID:31285-1727431200-1727434800@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Happy Birthday to You!
DESCRIPTION:Join with Rabbi Ron Symons in discussing the history of birthdays and their celebration rituals. With Rosh Hashanah\, often called the “birthday of the world\,” just days away\, this conversation will help us appreciate why marking time is valuable\, no matter how old in body or young in heart you are. While this conversation is inspired by Rosh Hashanah\, it will expand into our everyday lives no matter your faith tradition. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, will lead an interactive guided conversation about life that weaves general spirituality with a Jewish lens. We end our time together with a little grape juice and challah. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-happy-birthday-to-you/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241007T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241007T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240905T142332Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240918T171709Z
UID:31391-1728327600-1728331200@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:A Communal Remembrance: October 7 and a Year of War
DESCRIPTION:We will come together to acknowledge all of our losses since October 7\, 2023\, including the loss of innocent lives across faiths\, ethnicities\, and nationalities; the loss of physical and emotional security felt in the Middle East\, the U.S.\, and around the world; the loss of relationships across differences; and more. Our time together will be a-political and filled with music\, readings\, and private reflection time.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/a-communal-remembrance-october-7-and-a-year-of-war/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Yitzgor-Memorial-Candles-AdobeStock_201094943-scaled-1.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241010T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241010T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240927T165653Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240927T165653Z
UID:31473-1728554400-1728558000@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Common Ground: Has Politics Replaced Religion in America?
DESCRIPTION:Given the divisiveness throughout our country\, is it possible that some people think political affiliation is more important than religious affiliation? Join us to discuss with Rabbi Jay Stein from the Greenburgh Hebrew Center and Rev. Gareth Evans from the St. Barnabas Episcopal Church of Irvington. \nThis is part of the Common Ground: Interfaith Dialogue series. Rabbi Jay Stein\, Greenburgh Hebrew Center\, and Rev. Gareth Evans\, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church of Irvington\, come together for an enlightening conversation to build bridges across real and perceived differences. Your participation as a “fly on the wall” and/or an engaged conversationalist is welcome. These are on the 2nd Thursday of every month. 
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/common-ground-has-politics-replaced-religion-in-america/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Common-Ground-Interfaith-Dialogue.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241011T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241011T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240927T170147Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241008T184359Z
UID:31475-1728639000-1728642600@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: The Power of My Word
DESCRIPTION:With all the words that easily fly around us on the news\, social media\, and in conversation\, it seems that the weight of our words is less than it used to be.  We’ll discuss the importance of sticking to what you say.  While this conversation is inspired by the themes of Yom Kippur\, its application can touch our everyday lives\, no matter your background or faith. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-the-power-of-my-word/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241015T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241015T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240903T165511Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240911T154410Z
UID:31367-1729018800-1729024200@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Inside the Middle East: Navigating the Storm One Year After October 7
DESCRIPTION:As the Middle East navigates a storm of unprecedented challenges\, we stand at a pivotal juncture that will define the future of Israel\, the Palestinians\, and the entire region. Avi Melamed\, former Israeli intelligence official and senior advisor on Arab affairs\, will lead a special briefing on the issues underscoring the escalating conflict. We’ll delve deep into the forces driving these turbulent times\, unravel the intricate complexities beneath the surface\, look at “the day after\,” and assess the far-reaching implications for both the region\, and the world. \nAvi Melamed is a Middle East geopolitical expert and intelligence analyst. He is the founder of Inside the Middle East\, an apolitical non-partisan educational nonprofit providing analysis on current affairs. Avi is the author of Inside the Middle East: Entering a New Era\, and has been a featured expert in the media including CNN\, Newsweek\, and USA Today.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/insight-the-middle-east-navigating-the-storm-with-avi-melamed/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241018T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241018T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240927T170332Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241008T184433Z
UID:31477-1729243800-1729247400@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Shelter Us!
DESCRIPTION:On this second day of the fall holiday of Sukkot\, which celebrates the power of shelter in our lives\, we will explore both the contemporary challenges of affordable housing in our region and the spiritual power of being sheltered in all kinds of ways.  While this conversation is inspired by the themes of Sukkot\, its application can touch our everyday lives\, no matter your background or faith.  (Weather permitting\, we might hold this session in our Sukkah (Harvest Hut) on the quad of the JCC.) \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-shelter-us/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241025T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241025T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240927T170705Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241008T184510Z
UID:31479-1729848600-1729852200@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Voting is Good for Your Health
DESCRIPTION:We all know that voting is a good thing to do so that your voice is heard\, but what if there was more to it?  Join us for a values-based conversation about the way the election process impacts our neighbors: not the political impact\, the moral impact on us as neighbors. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-voting-is-good-for-your-health/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241101T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241101T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240827T171536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241024T181841Z
UID:31267-1730453400-1730457000@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Clergy Talk: Racism: What’s Judaism got to do with it?
DESCRIPTION:Can an oppressed people like the Jews ever be considered racist? Why should Jews—and white Jews in particular—take racism personally?  Cantor Robin Joseph ponders these questions\, among others\, and explores what are some of our Jewish tradition’s responses to racism and how they might inform our individual perspectives. \nJoin Cantor Robin Joseph of Temple Beth Shalom for this month’s Clergy Talk (formerly Challenging Times\, Ageless Insights). Each month\, we feature meaningful conversations with Rivertowns clergy. Your voice matters and makes these conversations all the more valuable. These are on the first Friday of every month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/clergy-talk-racism-whats-judaism-got-to-do-with-it/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/torah.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241108T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241108T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20241023T203737Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241023T203925Z
UID:31658-1731058200-1731061800@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Patience
DESCRIPTION:As we wait for the election results to be finalized\, let’s all take a deep breath and find that place inside where we can wait for resolution. The soul trait of patience is a useful tool when it comes to election results and so much more in our lives. We will dust off the cobwebs that prevent us from accessing patience in hopes that we can use it well now and into the future. As always\, your presence makes our conversation all the richer. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-patience/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241115T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241115T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20241023T204104Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241023T204104Z
UID:31661-1731663000-1731666600@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Patriotism\, Nationalism\, Partisan Politics\, and Jewish Wisdom
DESCRIPTION:In this hypersensitive partisan time in American life\, we will benefit from a discussion that draws from the wisdom of Dan Rather from his book What Unites Us\, along with 3\,000 years of Jewish wisdom to help us make our way through these challenging weeks. As always\, your presence makes our conversation all the richer. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-patriotism-nationalism-partisan-politics-and-jewish-wisdom/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241122T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241122T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20241023T204246Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241121T203121Z
UID:31663-1732267800-1732271400@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Cultivating Gratitude and Joy: How Every Day Might be Thanksgiving
DESCRIPTION:If only we could be thankful the other 364 days of the year. We will gather around in preparation for Thanksgiving to feast on an array of morsels of wisdom and insight to help us strengthen our gratitude muscles. As always\, your presence makes our conversation all the richer. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-cultivating-gratitude-and-joy-how-every-day-might-be-thanksgiving/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241206T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241206T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240827T172224Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241122T143535Z
UID:31271-1733477400-1733481000@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Clergy Talk: The Maccabees in Their Own Words
DESCRIPTION:The Books of the Maccabees were written too late to be included in the Hebrew Bible\, and too early to make it into the New Testament. They tell the story of Hanukhah from the perspective of those who experienced it\, and that retelling is as fascinating for what it leaves out as for what it includes. We’ll look at selected passages and get the eyewitness account of the origin of the Festival of Lights. \nJoin Rabbi David Holtz of Temple Beth Abraham for this month’s Clergy Talk (formerly Challenging Times\, Ageless Insights). Each month\, we feature meaningful conversations with Rivertowns clergy. Your voice matters and makes these conversations all the more valuable. These are on the first Friday of every month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/clergy-talk-the-maccabees-in-their-own-words/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/maccabees.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241211T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241211T201500
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20241108T181536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241203T194648Z
UID:31721-1733943600-1733948100@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Mohammad Darawshe: Israeli Jews and Israeli Arabs Building Shared Society
DESCRIPTION:The October 7 Hamas attack and its aftermath deeply impacted all of Israel’s ethnic groups. The Jewish majority experienced indescribable fear\, while many citizens comprising the Arab minority–which makes up one-fifth of Israel’s citizenry—faced its own fear of being seen as Hamas terrorists. \nMohammad Darawshe\, a faculty member at the Shalom Hartman Institute and director of strategy for the Givat Haviva Center for Shared Society\, will discuss his work with Givat Haviva and its impact on Jewish-Arab relations to foster dialogue and mutual respect in Israel and beyond. Q&A will follow. \nAbout the Speaker \nMohammad Darawshe is considered a leading expert on Jewish-Arab relations. He has presented lectures and papers at the European parliament\, NATO Defense College\, World Economic Forum\, and Club de Madrid\, US Congress\, Herzliya Conference and Israel’s Presidential Conference. Mohammad was the recipient of the Peacemakers Award from the Catholic Theological Union\, and the Peace and Security Award of the World Association of NGO’s\, and was Leadership Fellow at the New Israel Fund. In 2008\, Mohammad Darawshe was elected as a city council member in his hometown Iksal. In 2009\, he served as a member of The National Committee which drafted Israel’s Coexistence Education policy. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from The Hebrew University in Jerusalem and a Master of Arts in Public Administration from Hartford University. He lives in Iksal with his wife and four children.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/mohammad-darawshe-israeli-jews-and-israeli-arabs-building-shared-society/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Mohammad-Web-Hero2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241213T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241213T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20241122T142653Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241122T142653Z
UID:31891-1734082200-1734085800@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: ‘Tis The Season to Be… Interfaith
DESCRIPTION:Join Rabbi Ron Symons in a conversation about the power of and challenges with confronting interfaith dialogue\, especially now in a world filled with divisions. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-tis-the-season-to-be-interfaith-2/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241220T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241220T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20241122T142108Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241122T142407Z
UID:31887-1734687000-1734690600@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Don’t Let The Light Go Out
DESCRIPTION:Join Rabbi Ron Symons in uncovering the deeper meanings of Hanukkah beyond candles\, dreidels\, latkes\, and gelt. Our conversation will help us return to the core light that might spark something new or old deep down inside. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-tis-the-season-to-be-interfaith/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250103T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250103T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20240827T173141Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241220T141140Z
UID:31275-1735896600-1735900200@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Clergy Talk: Mental Health and Melody: The Power of Music for Wellness
DESCRIPTION:Our sacred texts are rife with stories about the mental health of our ancestors. So too do the teachings of our sages grapple with our mental and emotional well-being. We’ll explore how mental health has played a role in Jewish texts\, thought\, and practice\, as well as how Jewish composers have written–and continue to write– music to illustrate and soothe personal turmoil. \nJoin Cantor Jenna Mark of Woodlands Community Temple for this month’s Clergy Talk (formerly Challenging Times\, Ageless Insights). Each month\, we feature meaningful conversations with Rivertowns clergy. Your voice matters and makes these conversations all the more valuable. These are on the first Friday of every month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/clergy-talk-mental-health-and-melody-the-power-of-music-for-wellness/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/music17.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250110T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250110T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20241220T141735Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241220T142124Z
UID:32028-1736501400-1736505000@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Endings and Beginnings
DESCRIPTION:Join a conversation about the power of turning the page on the past and starting a new chapter. At this season of new year along with a new administration\, we’ll discuss how we can use our past experiences to help us nurture future experiences for ourselves and the generations yet to be. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-endings-and-beginnings/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250117T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250117T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20241220T142437Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241220T142640Z
UID:32032-1737106200-1737109800@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: "The arc of the moral universe is long\, but it bends towards justice."
DESCRIPTION:Join a conversation about the impact of the life\, work and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.\, its roots deep in biblical themes and its branches reaching towards tomorrow. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-the-arc-of-the-moral-universe-is-long-but-it-bends-towards-justice/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250131T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250131T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20241220T142555Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241220T142555Z
UID:32034-1738315800-1738319400@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: The Power of Work
DESCRIPTION:Join a conversation about the impact good work has played on our lives and how those who have organized workers have advanced the common good. We can reflect on how meaningful work is an essential part of our individual and collective identities. Our conversation will reach back to the days of the Torah\, to the good work of labor organizers of the 20th century\, and to our own experiences of work. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-the-power-of-work/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250207T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250207T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20250122T213658Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250122T213658Z
UID:32252-1738920600-1738924200@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Clergy Talk: "Godshopping" with Rabbi Mara Young
DESCRIPTION:We know God is one\, but Judaism is anything but monolithic in how we understand this principle. Our written and oral traditions present a plethora of authentic “God concepts.” What is yours? In this interactive session\, we’ll investigate different ways of thinking about God and then “go shopping” for our own articulation of our relationship to the Divine. \nJoin Rabbi Mara Young of Woodlands Community Temple for this month’s Clergy Talk (formerly Challenging Times\, Ageless Insights). Each month\, we feature meaningful conversations with Rivertowns clergy. Your voice matters and makes these conversations all the more valuable. These are on the first Friday of every month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/clergy-talk-godshopping-with-rabbi-mara-young/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/mara-web.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250214T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250214T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20250122T214218Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250122T214218Z
UID:32258-1739525400-1739529000@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: You Shall Guard and Work The Garden
DESCRIPTION:Our earliest stories remind us that we have a responsibility to care for the earth so that we can preserve it for generations to come.  In a time when global warming and environmentalism are in the news\, join us for a values-based conversation about the balance between using our natural resources with abandon and caring for them. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-you-shall-guard-and-work-the-garden/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250228T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250228T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20250122T214608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250212T165501Z
UID:32262-1740735000-1740738600@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Love the Stranger as Yourself
DESCRIPTION:For thousands of years we have been instructed to love the stranger because of the way the ancient Israelites were once strangers in Egypt and how  powers throughout history have poorly treated the Jewish community.  With a new emphasis on immigration in America\, join us for a relevant values-based conversation about our obligation to and treatment of those deemed “strangers.” \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-looking-for-joy-especially-now/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250307T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250307T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20250225T150325Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250225T150325Z
UID:32483-1741339800-1741343400@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Purim: Looking for Joy\, Especially Now
DESCRIPTION:Who couldn’t use just a little more joy? Jewish tradition teaches us that joy increases in the month of Adar (beginning on March 1) as we anticipate the festival of Purim (March 14).  Let’s use this tradition to learn how we can infuse simchah (joy) into our daily lives given some of the challenges we face. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-purim-looking-for-joy-especially-now/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250321T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250321T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20250225T150547Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250225T150547Z
UID:32485-1742549400-1742553000@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Diversity\, Equity\, and Inclusion through Jewish Wisdom
DESCRIPTION:In a world in which DEI is being challenged rather than celebrated\, let’s come together to uncover the values from Jewish wisdom that might bring clarity to our understanding of the vast array of human expression. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-through-jewish-wisdom/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250328T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250328T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20250225T150907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250225T174458Z
UID:32487-1743154200-1743157800@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Yearning for Connection and Good in Our Lives
DESCRIPTION:The reality of our 21st-century world is that many of us are isolated and fret over the lack of goodness around us. Our coming together to explore Jewish wisdom and techniques to stay connected and to celebrate the good might actually help each one of us as we step out of winter into the spring. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-yearning-for-connection-and-good-in-our-lives/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250411T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250411T103000
DTSTAMP:20260403T140957
CREATED:20250325T194041Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T194041Z
UID:32685-1744363800-1744367400@www.shamesjcc.org
SUMMARY:Challah and Conversation: Passover: The Birth Song of Freedom for All Subsequent Challenges
DESCRIPTION:Join Rabbi Ron Symons in an interactive conversation about how the Passover and Exodus narrative serve as the inspiration for freedom throughout history.  The story we tell on Passover night resonates over and over throughout the generations for both Jews and non-Jews alike. \nIn the Challah and Conversation series\, Rabbi Ron Symons\, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement\, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other  lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd\, 3rd\, 4th\, and 5th Fridays of each month.
URL:https://www.shamesjcc.org/event/challah-and-conversation-passover-the-birth-song-of-freedom-for-all-subsequent-challenges/
CATEGORIES:Jewish Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.shamesjcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/challah-bread-wood-plate-wooden-table_93289-20.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR