Jewish Life

Basically Jewish

Rabbi Aaron and Rabbi Nora lead an experiential introduction to Judaism course designed for those looking to reconnect with Judaism, as well as non-Jews looking to discover.

Next Level: Israel

Designed as an entry point into the conversation, this series is for those who want to learn about or engage more deeply with Israel. With Rabbi Aaron as your guide, over four weeks, you’ll gain historical and contemporary frameworks to help you better understand a variety of issues related to Israel, with each week focusing on a different topic.

The Esties: A Purim Party

Experience a night of snubs, surprises, and stars at the first annual Estie Awards, hosted by Rabbi Aaron and Rabbi Nora. Show off your look on our red carpet, laugh along at irreverent, guaranteed-to-offend sketches, and dance the night away to live music at our after-party.

Post-Grad Shabbat: Dinner and Conversation

with Rabbi Nora

Designed with recent graduates in mind, this Shabbat experience led by Rabbi Nora is intended to foster connection, conversation, and community among those navigating this transitional, post-college phase.

Group Chat

Feel Free

With Passover just around the corner, join Rabbi Aaron for an informal text-based conversation about Nina Simone’s definition of freedom. In both pairs and as a full group, we’ll discuss a couple of texts that explore the intersection of fear and freedom, as well as share about the way fear shows up in our own lives and what steps we might take to live more courageously.

Shabbat: Exhale

At this one-hour alternative Shabbat service, unwind and reconnect through guided meditation, reflection on Jewish teachings, and communal singing.

Next Level: Antisemitism

Though it’s become increasingly visible, talking about antisemitism can feel fraught and overwhelming. With Rabbi Nora, discuss how it manifests as tropes and stereotypes, dive deep into the role of politics, polarization, and power as they relate to the perception of Jews, and examine contemporary responses to antisemitism.

Post-Passover Chametz Party

Following Passover, bring on the chametz with Sonny’s Pizza. As you satisfy your carbohydrate cravings, Rabbi Nora will offer contemporary insights on the holiday’s themes and share ideas for how you can support our community.

Friday Night Services with Dinner

with Rabbi Aaron

This inclusive service led by Rabbi Aaron and musicians Aaron Shneyer, Sarah Fredrick, and Jeff Geld blends contemporary and traditional elements for an experience that feels both familiar and fresh.

Trivia Under the Stars

Location: Wunder Garten

From sports and pop culture to geography and politics, we’ll test your knowledge of it all outdoors in the heart of NOMA at Wunder Garten.