jewishwisdomandwellness.org
Jewish wisdom& wellness A FESTIVAL OF LEARNING APRIL 26-MAY 3
“Healing is a task of all Jews and requires a search for wholeness where the individual and the community are joined in care for all.” Rabbi William Cutter Founding Director, Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion
the huc-jir Kalsman institute on judaism & health In the connections between Judaism and health, the Kalsman Institute of HUCJIR is a catalyst for interaction, learning and partnerships among spiritual leaders, healthcare providers, Jewish community professionals and members. Through a network of nearly 3,000 Kalsman Partners, the Institute makes contributions to Jewish thought and practice through training, collaboration and dialogue. On the Los Angeles HUC-JIR campus, Kalsman also provides pastoral education to our future Jewish leaders.
“The Festival of Learning connects the entire community through a deep engagement of classic and contemporary texts as well as sacred ritual to spark greater spiritual wellness, wisdom and healing; a “refuah shleimah” in the broadest sense of the term.” Rabbi Jason Weiner Senior Rabbi and Manager of Spiritual Care, Cedars-Sinai
Cedars-Sinai Cedars-Sinai has a proud tradition of providing the highest quality care, leading-edge research, outstanding medical education, and community service to those in need. These efforts not only represent our mission, they also exemplify our Jewish values every day.
JEWISHWISDOMANDWELLNESS.ORG
A FESTIVAL OF LEARNING APRIL 26-MAY 3
opening event SUNDAY | APRIL 26 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Glass Half Full: Jewish Responses to Life’s Challenges Can Judaism bring new insight and hope to life’s challenges? Join four distinguished rabbis: Rabbi Amy Bernstein, Rabbi Zoe Klein, Rabbi Elazar Muskin, Rabbi David Woznica with Moderator Rob Eshman, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the Jewish Journal as they explore the impact of Jewish wisdom on modern life. Hosted by: Cedars-Sinai and HUC-JIR Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health Location: Cedars-Sinai, Harvey Morse Auditorium, 8700 Beverly Blvd, South Tower Plaza Level, Los Angeles, CA 90048
Soul Journey: a Concert with Neshama CarlebacH and Josh Nelson The Festival closes with a rousing concert by two superstars in Jewish entertainment. Come raise your voice in joyful song and devotion! Hosted by: Leo Baeck Temple and HUC-JIR Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health In memory of Debbie Friedman z”l and Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach z”l Location: Leo Baeck Temple 1300 N. Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049
JEWISHWISDOMANDWELLNESS.ORG
closing concert SUNDAY | MAY 3 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Counting the Days: Storytelling with East Side Jews Wednesday, April 29, 2015 7:30PM - 9:30PM Location: Mack Sennett Studios, 1215 Bates Ave, Los Angeles An evening of stories on humility and victory in the healing process. Storytellers will include local community members and veteran storytellers including 9-time winner of The Moth StorySLAM Bill Ratner, writer director Jessie Kahnweiler, Cantor Rebekah Mirsky, and filmmaker Eli Rarey.
TM
Presents The Farewell Party
Tuesday, April 28, 2015, 7:30 PM Location: Laemmle’s Music Hall 3, Beverly Hills – Cost: $18 Advance ticket purchases are REQUIRED to attend the screening and discussion. Tickets are available at www.laemmle.com/farewell THE FAREWELL PARTY is a unique, compassionate and unlikely funny story of a group of friends at a Jerusalem retirement home facing a life and death dilemma. They hatch an elaborate plan involving euthanasia. The film is a dark comedy that provides an insightful perspective on the struggles of aging with dignity. Jewish Wisdom & Wellness POST FILM DISCUSSION is for the audience of the screening only. Join ethicists and rabbis for a Jewish perspective on issues raised in the movie including aging with dignity, dementia, and end of life care.
Refuah LA: Healing Abounds Friday, May 1 - Saturday, May 2 This Shabbat, join with hundreds of Jewish voices raised for healing. See our website for a service near you.
Beit T’Shuvah (Culver City) Beth shir shalom (Santa Monica) Kol ami (West Hollywood) nashuva (Brentwood) temple beth israel of highland park and eagle rock
temple emanuel of beverly hills university synagogue (Brentwood) wilshire boulevard temple (Wilshire Center)
calendar of events a festival of learning april 26 - may 3, 2015 sign up today at JEWISHWISDOMANDWELLNESS.ORG
SUNDAY | APRIL 26
OPENING EVENT Glass Half Full: Jewish Responses to Life’s Challenges 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Hosted by: Cedars-Sinai and HUC-JIR Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health At: Cedars-Sinai, Harvey Morse Auditorium With Rabbi Amy Bernstein, Rabbi Zoe Klein, Rabbi Elazar Muskin, Rabbi David Woznica and Moderator Rob Eshman 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM TorahTrek Hiking Retreat Hosted by: TorahTrek - The Center for Jewish Wilderness Spirituality At: Malibu Creek State Park (See event page on website for details) In the heightened awareness of the sacred in wilderness, we invite God’s healing presence through blessings, meditative walking, mindfulness exercises, and prayer. 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM Revitalizing Judaism’s Holiest Practices: An Introduction to Tahara and Chevra Kadisha (Valley) Hosted by: Jewish Burial Society of So. California & Shomrei Torah Synagogue At: Shomrei Torah Synagogue, 7353 Valley Circle Blvd., West Hills Explore the unique power of Jewish funeral practices and learn how to develop a congregational Chevra Kadisha. 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM Revitalizing Judaism’s Holiest Practices: An Introduction to Tahara & Chevra Kadisha (Westside) Hosted by: Jewish Burial Society of Southern California and IKAR At: Address emailed upon registration Explore the unique power of Jewish funeral practices and learn how to develop a congregational Chevra Kadisha. 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Just Harvest: How Our Food-Buying Decisions Can Change the World Hosted By: Netiya At: Valley Beth Shalom, 15739 Ventura Blvd, Encino Learn how to make decisions about food purchasing that are based in religious values and encourage sustainable local economies. 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM The Invitation: Living a Meaningful Death Hosted by: Walking Stick Foundation At: Chumash Indian Museum, 3290 Lang Ranch Parkway, Thousand Oaks Ancient Jewish shamanic teachings about death and dying, and their lessons for enriching life. 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM Middle Ages Remedies for the Modern Age Person ~ With Healing Crystal and Tibetan Singing Bowls Hosted by: Ahavat Torah At: Ahavat Torah, Social Hall, 343 S. Church Lane, LA Discover Maimonides’ enduring wisdom for wellness through herbal remedies, Jewish meditation and a soothing sound spa experience.
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM Body T’Shuvah Hosted by: Westside Jewish Community Center At: 5870 Olympic Blvd., LA An energetic exploration of personal transformation, growth and change. 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Contemporary Issues in Bio-Ethics; An Interactive Workshop Hosted by: Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center At: 1434 N. Altadena Drive, Pasadena Explore the intersection of medical advances and Jewish values by discussing case studies with Dr. Jacob Zighelboim. 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM Telling Stories, Changing Lives Hosted by: JQ International At: Address emailed upon registration LGBTQ Jews are invited to write their personal narrative as a tool to integrate their past, understand their present, and envision their future. 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM Vision of Wholeness: A Spiritual Response To Autism. Principles, Practices and Parables that Transform Lives Hosted by: Vision of Wholeness and Temple Judea At: 5429 Lindley Ave., Tarzana A workshop exploring spiritually-rooted and relationship-based responses to Autism.
Glass Half Full: Jewish Responses to Life’s Challenges 4:00 PM- 6:00 PM
Hosted by: Cedars-Sinai & Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health At: Cedars-Sinai, Harvey Morse Auditorium, 8700 Beverly Blvd., LA
MONDAY | APRIL 27 8:30 am - 10:00 am What’s Jewish About Breast Cancer and Ovarian Cancer? Hosted by: Sharsheret |Your Jewish Community Facing Breast Cancer and National Council of Jewish Women/Los Angeles (NCJW/LA) At: 543 N. Fairfax Ave., LA Learn about the unique risks and issues that impact Jewish women facing breast cancer and ovarian cancer, how increased awareness can save lives, and how Sharsheret can help those at elevated risk and those facing cancer. 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Blood Drive: An Act of Chesed Hosted by: Shalhevet High School & Westside JCC At: Westside JCC, Weinberger Auditorium, 5870 West Olympic Blvd., LA Do a mitzvah and support the health of our community by participating in this daylong blood drive. Appointments recommended. 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM The Magic of Camp for Children & Young Adults with Disabilities Hosted by: Temple Beth Am and Camp Ramah At: Pilch Hall, 1039 S. La Cienega Blvd., LA Learn best practices from the Tikvah program and how you can bring camp to your home during the year. 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Green Burial is Jewish! Values and Options Around Our Final Disposition Hosted by: Jewish Burial Society of Southern California and Temple Akiba At: 5249 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City Learn Jewish teachings on Green burials and discover options in the LA area.
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Normalizing Despair Hosted by: HUC Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health At: Hebrew Union College-JIR – 3077 University Ave., LA What can the Bible teach us about accepting and normalizing the dark and difficult times in our lives? With Rabbi Elie Spitz.
TUESDAY | APRIL 28
4:15 PM - 5:15 PM The Spirituality of Imagination Hosted by: HUC Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health At: Hebrew Union College-JIR – 3077 University Ave., LA Come explore the role of imagination in ritual and the healing process, combining text and guided meditation. With Rabbi Elie Spitz. 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Deeper Self with Rabbi Mordecai Finley Hosted by: Silverlake Independent Jewish Community Center At: SIJCC, Dance Studio, 1110 Bates Ave., LA Explore the Jewish soul through meditations and insights from the work of Carl Jung and others. 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM A Death Cafe in the South Bay Hosted by: Jewish Burial Society of Southern California and Congregation Tikvat Jacob At: 1829 N Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach Everyone will experience it, but few will talk about it. A safe and comfortable space to discuss death and enhance life, and we provide the cake and coffee. 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Angelina’s ‘Jewish Gene’ Hosted by: Sharsheret At: Address emailed upon registration What does Angelina Jolie’s personal decision to have prophylactic surgeries to mitigate her risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer mean for you? Learn about the unique risks and issues that impact Jewish women facing breast cancer and ovarian cancer. 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Look at us Now, Mother! Hosted by: Bruce Corwin, member of the HUC-JIR Board of Overseers At: Address emailed upon registration Award-winning documentarian Gayle Kirschenbaum screens her new film and shares how to learn to love and forgive a critical parent. 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Making Prayer Real: Healing, Unscripted Prayer and Chant Hosted by: TorahTrek - The Center for Jewish Wilderness Spirituality and the HUC Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health At: Address emailed upon registration Does prayer change God or does it change us? Join us as we explore its healing power. 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Alzheimer’s Disease Today: Still Alice Hosted by: University Synagogue, The Judy Fund, & the Alzheimer’s Association At: 11960 Sunset Blvd., LA What do we need to know about Alzheimer’s? Join an important discussion with Alzheimer’s experts, clergy, and the Co-Producer of the film Still Alice.
CAREGIVING
END-OF-LIFE ISSUES
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Poetic Responses: A Respite from Record Keeping - Session 1 Hosted by: Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health and Cedars-Sinai At: Cedars-Sinai, Chapel, 8700 Beverly Blvd., LA Rabbi William Cutter and Dr. Ron Andiman explore health, illness, the power of touch, and the wisdom of poetry. The two sessions (T/Th) will focus on different poems. 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Creativity and Healing in a Jewish Context Hosted by: Bel and Jack M. Ostrow Library, American Jewish University At: 15600 Mulholland Dr., LA Israel-based American artist, Judith Margolis, draws on the spiritual when confronting the political. Many of her paintings, drawings and artist books came about as a “creative response to infirmity.” 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM Mikvah: Defined and Redefined Hosted by: Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies of American Jewish University At: American Jewish University, Room 109, 15600 Mulholland Drive, LA A modern approach on how the mikveh’s waters can consecrate profound moments in our lives. 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Kvetching & Kvelling: Jewish Journaling for Clarity, Joy and Stress Management Hosted by: Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills At: Davidson-Sheffer Room, 8844 Burton Way, Beverly Hills An interactive workshop introducing students to the joys of free-writes, literary kvetching, and DIY Midrash to free the imagination. 5:30 PM - 6:45 PM Moving Into Shabbat - Session 1 Hosted by: Feldenkrais Educational Foundation of North America At: Century City Physical Therapy, 2080 Century Park East, Suite 410, LA Slow down and experience where Judaism, Feldenkrais and Yoga intersect to prepare for Shabbat reflection and renewal. Registration required. 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM You Don’t Have to be An Addict to be in Recovery Hosted by: Beit T’Shuvah At: 8831 Venice Blvd., LA An insightful look at human brokenness through mind-body integration, spiritual counseling, and mindful living with the first Jewish residential treatment center. 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Reluctant Volunteer? Why Helping Out and Giving Back Makes Us Happier Hosted by: Temple Israel of Hollywood and Big Sunday At: 7300 Hollywood Blvd., LA David Levinson, the founder of Big Sunday, discusses the surprising health and spiritual benefits of giving back.
8:00 PM - 9:00 PM Zumba for the Jewish Soul with Sara Tanz Hosted by: Westside Jewish Community Center At: Weinberger Auditorium, 5870 W. Olympic Blvd., LA A dance exercise class that connects us to our culture with Jewish-themed music.
ETHICS
HEALING & SPIRITUALITY
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10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Jewish Yoga Hosted by: University Synagogue At: Klein Hall, 11960 Sunset Blvd., LA Enhance your mind-body connection and your Jewish spirituality.
*Except for the movie, THE FAREWELL PARTY
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Oy Vey! Can I Be Orthodox and Gay? Hosted by: Eshel and JQ International At: Address provided upon registration or call the contact on event page. A confidential discussion group that will cover a host of topics related to being Orthodox and LGBTQ, facilitated by a licensed therapist. 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM New Kabbalistic Insights on the Hebrew Letters Hosted by: Leo Baeck Temple At: 1300 N Sepulveda Blvd., LA Experience the insights of our Jewish sages into the mystical healing properties of the Hebrew letters. 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Moving Through Grief and Beyond Hosted by: University Synagogue & Jewish Family Service of Los Angeles At: 11960 Sunset Blvd., LA Grief counseling and Jewish mourning traditions come together for healing. 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM “Un-Orthodox” Spiritual Washing Ceremonies from the Jewish Tradition Hosted by: Jewish Burial Society of Southern CA and Wilshire Boulevard Temple At: Erika J. Glazer Family Campus, 3663 Wilshire Blvd., LA Discover how the Home Funeral Movement honors deceased loved ones in a ritual of closure and healing. 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Biblical Sex for Our Modern Lives Hosted by: Moishe House At: Address emailed upon registration Ancient Jewish laws and perceptions about intimacy and sex still offer ways to re-envision the tensions between Judaism and American culture with a sex-positive, all-inclusive lens. 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Sacred Conversations: Learning How to Have End of Life Conversations in Your Family and Facilitate Them with Other Families Hosted by: Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills and Temple Isaiah At: TEBH, 8844 Burton Way, Beverly Hills Learn how to hold a sacred conversation with your loved ones around end-of-life advance directives. 7:15 PM - 8:30 PM Moving Into Shabbat - Session 2 Hosted by: Feldenkrais Educational Foundation of North America At: Century City Physical Therapy, 2080 Century Park East, Suite 410, LA Slow down and experience where Judaism, Feldenkrais and Yoga intersect to prepare for Shabbat reflection and renewal. Registration required. 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM Jew Boost: Death Hosted by: Silverlake Independent Jewish Community Center At: SIJCC, Dance Studio, 1110 Bates Ave., LA Boost your Jew with this contemporary exploration of Jewish ideas, practices and rituals on death.
TM
Presents THE FAREWELL PARTY 7:30 PM Cost: $18
At: Laemmle’s Music Hall 3, 9036 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills
A group of friends at a Jerusalem retirement home hatch a plan involving euthanasia and are left to wrestle with the consequences. Directly following, join rabbis, an ethicist, and grief expert for a Jewish perspective on issues raised in the movie. Advanced ticket purchases are REQUIRED at www.laemmle.com/farewell
WEDNESDAY | APRIL 29 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM New Kabbalistic Insights on the Hebrew Letters Hosted By: Sinai Temple At: Gold Hall, 10400 Wilshire Blvd., LA Experience the insights of our Jewish sages into the mystical healing properties of the Hebrew letters. 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Healing Service Hosted By: University Synagogue At: Beit Midrash of the Weinstein Family Library, 11960 Sunset Blvd., LA An opportunity to feel God’s healing presence within a community through song and prayer. 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM The December Project Comes to Los Angeles Hosted By: Leo Baeck Temple and Skirball Hospice At: 1300 N Sepulveda Blvd., LA Engage with the issues of aging, based on the teachings of Rabbi Zalman SchachterShalomi z”l. 11:15 AM - 1:15 PM “Un-Orthodox” Spiritual Washing Ceremonies from the Jewish Tradition Hosted by: Jewish Burial Society of Southern California and University Synagogue At: 11960 Sunset Blvd., LA Discover how the Home Funeral Movement honors deceased loved ones in a ritual of closure and healing. 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Embodied Jewish Learning: Yoga and Netzach (Patience) Hosted by: Jewish Learning Works and the HUC Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health At: Hebrew Union College-JIR – 3077 University Ave., LA Enrich your life with this gentle Iyengar-based yoga and movement class exploring the theme of Netzach and the counting of the Omer. 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Cedars-Sinai Grand Rounds: Genetics and Personalized Medicine in Israel and in Jewish Law with Rabbi Professor Avraham Steinberg, MD Hosted by: Cedars-Sinai At: Harvey Morse Auditorium, 8700 Beverly Blvd., LA Explore the crucial challenges of holding together medical advantages, ethical and theological concerns. 12:00 PM– 1:30 PM What it Means to go to War, and What it Means to Heal: A Jewish Perspective Hosted By: Platt/Borstein Galleries, American Jewish University & Craft in America Center At: Craft in America Center, 8413 W 3rd St., LA Jewish veterans who found strength and healing through the arts - a show and discussion. 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Judaism You Can Use: Five Mindfulness Practices to Cultivate Inner Wholeness in a Fractured World Hosted By: Leo Baeck Temple and The Jewish Mindfulness Network At: 1300 N Sepulveda Blvd., LA Pratice living a more mindful life. 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Evening with Jim Cohen at Craft in America Hosted By: Platt/Borstein Galleries, AJU & Craft in America Center At: Craft in America Center, 8413 W 3rd St., LA Hear an artist’s story of pursuing his craft after a military and legal career, the effect of Judaism on his art and his place in the history of American Jewish metalsmiths. 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Wrestling with End-of-Life Decisions from a Jewish Trans-denominational Perspective Hosted By: Skirball Hospice At: Los Angeles Jewish Home, Eisenberg Village, Zuckerman Bd Rm, 18855 Victory Blvd., Reseda Examining the intersection of medicine and Jewish law in end-of-life decisions.
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Am I My Brother’s Keeper? Finding Hope and Healing in Relationships with Our Siblings Hosted By: Temple Isaiah At: 10345 W. Pico Blvd., LA The wisdom of Judaism can offer understanding and opportunities to heal our sibling relationships.
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM A Visual Tour of New Beginnings: The Triumphs of 120 Cancer Survivors Hosted by Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills and the Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health At: TEBH, Davidson-Sheffer Hall, 8844 Burton Way, Beverly Hills Acclaimed Photographer Bill Aron has just published a moving record of the new beginnings that can open up for survivors of cancer. A Show and Discussion.
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Healing our Jewish Selves Hosted By: Westside Jewish Community Center At: Singer Solarium, 5870 W Olympic Blvd., LA Unpack your Jewish baggage to unlock places of comfort and delight with Rabbi Anne Brener.
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Art Opening: Culture Lab // Margin Hosted By: Silverlake Independent JCC & Hebrew Union College-JIR At: HUC-JIR 3077 University Ave., LA A multi-media artists’ collaboration exploring the theme of margin in Jewish culture and religion.
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM The Mysterious Healing Power of the Mourner’s Kaddish: Heart, Song and Word with the Kirtan Rabbi Hosted By: Kehillat Israel At: 16019 Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades Go deep into the power of the Mourner’s Kaddish through meditation, chanting and text study.
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Death Cafe on the Westside Hosted By: Jewish Burial Society of Southern California and the Westside JCC At: 5870 W Olympic Blvd., LA Everyone will experience it, but few will talk about it. A safe and comfortable space to discuss death and enhance life, and we provide the cake and coffee.
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM Praying for Healing, Praying for Mercy: When Faced with Illness, What are We Asking from G-d? Plus a Singing Bowls Meditation Hosted By: Temple Ramat Zion At: 17655 Devonshire Street, Northridge Examine prayers for healing and experience a healing sound spa.
Counting the Days: Storytelling with East Side Jews 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Hosted By: Silverlake Independent Jewish Community Center At: Mack Sennett Studios, 1215 Bates Ave., LA Award-winning storytellers share their tales of humility and victory in the healing process. See website for April 8 pre-event workshop
THURSDAY | APRIL 30 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Jewish Yoga Hosted by: University Synagogue At: Klein Hall, 11960 Sunset Blvd., LA Enhance your mind-body connection and your Jewish spirituality. 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Giving Care and Taking Care Hosted By: Adat Ari El and Jewish Family Service of Los Angeles At: 12020 Burbank Blvd., Valley Village A workshop exploring perspectives on honoring our families and creating balance for ourselves as caregivers of those with memory loss and other illnesses. 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM Poetic Responses: A Respite from Record Keeping - Session 2 Hosted By: Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health and Cedars-Sinai At: Cedars-Sinai, Executive Conference Room, 8700 Beverly Blvd., LA Rabbi William Cutter and Dr. Ron Andiman explore health, illness, the power of touch, and the wisdom of poetry. The two sessions (T/Th) will focus on different poems. 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Continuum Movement: Liquid Kabbalah Hosted By: Holistic Jew At: Continuum Movement Studio, 1629 18th St., Studio 7, Santa Monica Experience the subtle energy of your body through Continuum practice and integration with Torah to enjoy the fullness of what it means to be alive.
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM It’s Enough Already! Hosted By: Skirball Hospice At: Los Angeles Jewish Home, 18855 Victory Blvd., Reseda When is it time to cease life-support and let a loved one die with dignity? 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Tai Chi Prayer: Techiyat ha-Meitim and the Tailbone with the Kirtan Rabbi Hosted By: Temple Isaiah At: 10345 W. Pico Blvd., LA In this Jewish tai chi class, learn how proper attention to the tailbone and spine is crucial to health, longevity and energy. 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Spiritual Guidance and Support for the Hidden Potential of “Special Needs” Children Hosted By: Walking Stick Foundation At: Ahavat Torah, Fireside Room, 343 S. Church Lane, LA Using Jewish wisdom and traditions to foster the capabilities of special needs children. 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Queer Bodies, Queer Text and Rockin’ LGBTQ Identities Hosted By: Congregation Kol Ami and JQ International At: 1200 N. La Brea Ave., LA An LGBTQ positive lens on how Jewish texts and practices address queer identity and foster healthy lives. 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM Drumming for the Jewish Soul Hosted By: Beth Chayim Chadashim At: 6090 W. Pico Blvd., LA Grab a drum and join in the healing rhythms of a Jewish drum circle! 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM Embodied Jewish Learning: Dancing the Sacred Sefirot Hosted By: The Open Temple - Re-Enchanting Judaism in Venice At: The Electric Lodge Performing Arts Center, 1416 Electric Ave., Venice An experiential workshop to free your mind, body and spirit through movement, music and Jewish mystical teachings. 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM New Kabbalistic Insights on the Hebrew Letters Hosted By: Sinai Temple At: Ziegler Hall, 10400 Wilshire Blvd., LA Experience the insights of our Jewish sages into the mystical healing properties of the Hebrew letters.
FRIDAY | MAY 1 All Weekend A Bushel of Big Sunday Events Hosted By: Big Sunday At: See Website See what Big Sunday has to offer - 5/1 -5/3. Volunteering is good for your health. 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM New Kabbalistic Insights on the Hebrew Letters Hosted by: Leo Baeck Temple At: 1300 N Sepulveda Blvd., LA Experience the insights of our Jewish sages into the mystical healing properties of the Hebrew letters. 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Yoga of Creation and Rest Hosted By: Yoga Daya At: 8985 Venice Blvd., #F LA Stretch, strengthen & expand as we celebrate life with yoga poses inspired by the days of creation and the holy energy of Shabbat.
Refuah LA: Healing Abounds Look for healing services across LA Friday - Saturday 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM Healing from Brokenness Hosted by: Beit T’shuvah At: 8831 Venice Blvd., LA Through uplifting music, prayer, and relevant Judaism, our Shabbat service unites us in personal and communal healing and connection. Dinner provided following the service. 6:45 PM – 8:30 PM Shabbat Refuah: A Service of Healing and Hope Hosted By: Congregation Kol Ami At: 1200 N. La Brea Ave., LA With Rabbi Denise Eger and Student Rabbi Jeremy Gimbel. 6:45 PM – 8:30 PM Nashuva: Return to Hope and Healing Hosted By: Nashuva At: Brentwood Presbyterian Church, 12000 San Vicente Blvd., LA Join us for a night of music, prayer and healing, of wisdom, joy, community and transformation with Rabbi Naomi Levy and the Nashuva Band. 7:15 PM – 9:00 PM Kabbalat Shabbat Healing Service Hosted By: Beth Shir Sholom At: 1827 California Ave., Santa Monica Join special guest Rabbi Andrew Hahn (the Kirtan Rabbi), Rabbi Neil ComessDaniels, and Cantor Diane Rose for a restorative and balancing service based in music, chant, dance, and meditation. 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM Healing Oriented Kabbalat Shabbat Hosted By: Temple Beth Israel of Highland Park and Eagle Rock At: 5711 Monte Vista Street, LA A soulful, restorative, musical Shabbat service with healing meditation, and community connection with Rabbi Hanien. 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM The Torah Has Left the Closet Hosted By: Beth Chayim Chadashim and JQ International At: 6090 W. Pico Blvd., LA A Friday night service exploring the intersection of Jewish and queer identities through text, prayer and practice.
SATURDAY | MAY 2 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Shabbat Morning Sermon with Rabbi Professor Avraham Steinberg, MD Hosted by: Young Israel of Century City At: 9317 West Pico Blvd., LA 10:00 AM - 12:15 PM Healing Service: Saturday Morning @Emanuel with Rabbi Jonathan Aaron Hosted by: Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills At: Bess P. Maltz Center, 8844 Burton Way, Beverly Hills 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Shiru L’Adonai: Sing a New Song Unto God – Finding Your Inner Voice Hosted by: Temple Mishkon Tephilo At: 206 Main St., Venice Open your heart and reduce stress through the healing power of song. 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM Art Boxes of Hope and Healing Hosted by: Silverlake Independent Jewish Community Center At: SIJCC, Dance Studio, 1110 Bates Ave., LA Create 3-D art boxes that embody your personal journey of cleansing and healing with artists Aleka Corwin and Rae Antonoff. 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM Nosh ‘n’ Drosh: Genetics in Halacha, Beyond Levis, Jews and Genes Hosted by: B’nai David Judea At: Address emailed upon registration Genetics, personalized medicine and how Jerusalem’s Shaare Zedek run their clinic according to Jewish law with Rabbi Professor Avraham Steinberg, MD. 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM Yoga Havdala Hosted by: Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center At: 1434 N. Altadena Drive, Pasadena Stretch, strengthen & expand to experience the 6 days of creation & the deep relaxation of Shabbat. Refreshments & Havdalah to follow 6:10 PM - 7:10 PM Cutting Edge Medicine & Halacha with Rabbi Professor Avraham Steinberg, MD Hosted by: Young Israel of Century City At: Young Israel of Century City 9317 West Pico Blvd., LA Pre-mincha lecture on recent and future medical ethics dilemmas and halachic answers. 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm Healing, from the view of a Master of Kabbalah; Holistic Jew Shabbat by the Sea – 3rd Meal Hosted By: Holistic Jew Location: Address Provided Upon Registration Songs, meditation, movement, Kiddish, snacks and so much. We will study text, share learning and conclude with a joyous musical Havdalah. With Rabbi T’mimah Ickovits. 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Healing Havdalah with Nefesh Hosted By: Wilshire Boulevard Temple At: WBTLA, Erika J. Glazer Family Campus, 3663 Wilshire Blvd., LA Connect with our community and take in some food for your soul as Shabbat closes.
SUNDAY | MAY 3 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Volunteering for “Bingo ‘n’ Brunch” Hosted by: Big Sunday At: Address emailed upon registration Break bread with those in need and play together to lighten the soul.
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Coping with Chronic Illnesses in Iranian American Jewish Families Hosted by: Iranian American Jewish Federation (IAJF) At: IAJF, 1317 North Crescent Heights Blvd., LA Experts in the field discuss chronic illnesses in the Iranian-American community from medical, psychological and cultural perspectives. In Farsi. 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Faith, Prayer and Healing: An Iranian Jewish Perspective Hosted by: Iranian American Jewish Federation (IAJF) At: IAJF, 1317 North Crescent Heights Blvd., LA An esteemed panel explores the Iranian Jewish community’s connection with faith, prayer and healing. In English. 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM Trans-Torah: The Family Journey Hosted by: Eshel, JQ International and the Youth and Gender Media Project At: Jewish Federation of Los Angeles, 6505 Wilshire Blvd., LA Hear real stories of complexity and love from trans youth and their families and learn how our sacred texts can shed light on gender and sexuality. 2:45 PM - 4:30 PM Zemene – A Film Premiere and Panel Discussion Hosted by: LA Jewish Film Festival and Jewish Wisdom & Wellness At: Laemmle Theaters: Music Hall 3 - 9036 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills An inspirational documentary of hope, love and a journey of unimaginable possibilities for a spirited 10-year-old girl, Zemene, who struggles with a lifethreatening condition and the physician, who changes her life. Advance ticket purchases are REQUIRED. 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM Unveiling the Jewish Woman’s Invisible Burden: A Pathway to Healing Hosted by: Temple Beth Am At: 1039 S. La Cienega Blvd., LA A workshop for Jewish women to enhance their spiritual, emotional and physical well-being.
closiNG concert Soul Journey: A Concert with Neshama Carlebach and Josh Nelson 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Hosted by: Leo Baeck T emple and the
Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health At: Leo Baeck Temple, 1300 N. Sepulveda Blvd.. LA In Memory of Debbie Friedman z”l
PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS Adat Ari El Ahavat Torah American Jewish University -Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies -Platt and Borstein Galleries The Angell Foundation Beit T’Shuvah Beth Chayim Chadashim Beth Jacob Beth Shir Sholom Big Sunday The Board of Rabbis of Southern California/The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles B’nai David Judea Bruce Corwin, HUC-JIR Board of Overseers Camp Ramah Cedars-Sinai Congregation Kol Ami Congregation Tikvat Jacob Craft in America Center East Side Jews Eshel Feldenkrais Educational Foundation of North America Holistic Jew Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion Iranian American Jewish Federation IKAR Jewish Burial Society of Southern California Jewish Family Service of Los Angeles The Jewish Journal Jewish Learning Works The Jewish Mindfulness Network JQ International The Judy Fund of the Alzheimer’s Association The Kalsman Institute on Judaism & Health Kehillat Israel The Kirtan Rabbi Laemmle Theaters Leo Baeck Temple Los Angeles Jewish Film Festival Los Angeles Jewish Home Moishe House Nashuva National Council of Jewish Women/LA Netiya The Open Temple Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center Shalhevet High School Sharsheret Shomrei Torah Synagogue Silverlake Independent Jewish Community Center Sinai Temple Skirball Hospice Stephen S. Wise Temple Temple Akiba Temple Beth Am Temple Beth Israel of Highland Park and Eagle Rock Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills Temple Isaiah Temple Israel of Hollywood Temple Judea Temple Mishkon Tephilo Temple Ramat Zion TorahTrek - The Center for Jewish Wilderness Spirituality University Synagogue Vision of Wholeness Walking Stick Foundation Westside Jewish Community Center Wilshire Boulevard Temple Yoga Daya Yoga Garden Studios Young Israel of Century City The Youth and Gender Media Project
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