Jewish Book Discussion Group (Beit Midrash)
The Red House
Saturday, October 10, 12:45–2:30 p.m.
by Mary Morris, led by Ginny Baird
Thirty years after her mother, Viola, vanished without a trace, Laura returns to Italy seeking answers. The only clues are Viola’s haunting paintings of a red house and the cryptic words, “I will not be here forever.” As Laura uncovers her mother’s hidden past, she begins to unravel the mystery that has haunted her family for decades.
2Low Classical Concert (Social Hall)
Sunday, October 11, 6:30–8:00 p.m.
Join us for a concert by 2Low, featuring Charles Chandler (bass) and Amos Yang (cello) of the San Francisco Symphony! Tickets are $20 per person. Please RSVP.
Members, please RSVP [here]
Guests, please RSVP [here]
RSVP coming soon! Patrons Free – email [here] to RSVP.
Hazak Presents: Brooklyn Odyssey—My Journey out of Hasidism (Social Hall)
Sunday, October 18, 2:00–3:30 p.m.
Growing up in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, Zalman Newfield was immersed in the strict religious traditions of the Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic community. Trained to become a Lubavitch emissary, he traveled the world doing Jewish outreach. In Brooklyn Odyssey: My Journey out of Hasidism, Newfield recounts how reading, travel, and education broadened his perspective and ultimately led him to leave the faith of his youth. The cost is $10 per person. Please RSVP by October 16 by emailing Hazak [here].
Understanding Fallacies About Israel, Zionism, and the Jews—and How to Respond (Offsite)
Sunday, October 18, 3:00–5:00 p.m.
Congregation Beth Am, 26790 Arastradero Road, Los Altos Hills
Charlotte Korchak will provide an overview of Israel, Zionism and the Jews, and will outline some of the common fallacies typically encountered which challenge us, explaining why they’re false, and offering effective responses to use. Charlotte Korchak is well known for her deep knowledge of Middle East history and current events, and her ability to break down the most challenging concepts into comprehensible pieces.
Bocce & Dinner at Campo di Bocce (Offsite)
Sunday, October 18, 4:00–7:00 p.m.
Join us at Campo di Bocce for drinks and an early dinner beginning at 4:00 p.m., followed by bocce court time starting at 5:30 p.m. Please RSVP by 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 16 by emailing Men’s Club [here].
Navigating the Sea of Sacred Jewish Literature (Zoom)
Tuesday, October 20, 7:30–9:00 p.m.
Join Rabbi Roller as we embark together on a voyage of discover through the vast and diverse world of Jewish sacred literature. We will examine the unique characteristics of each genre and explore their historical contexts.
Starting with the varieties of biblical literature as a foundation, we will see how rabbinic, medieval, and modern texts build upon, reinterpret, and expand this core. Through this journey, we’ll gain insight into the rich tapestry of intertextuality that characterizes Jewish literature, witnessing how each era contributes to an ongoing, dynamic conversation within Jewish tradition. Sign up for Zoom [here].
Alternative Shabbat Sessions (Beit Midrash)
with Rabbi Hugh Seid-Valencia
Saturdays, October 24, November 21, December 19, 10:00–11:00 a.m.
Explore teachings from early Hasidic masters on the weekly Torah portion as a springboard for mindfulness meditation. Come ready to study, discuss, and experiment with meditation. No prior text study or meditation experience is needed.
The Former Prophets with Rabbi Roller (Beit Midrash)
Saturday, October 24, 12:45–2:00 p.m.
Discover the most exciting biblical stories you have never heard before! We will be going through the Nevi’im Rishonim (Former Prophets) from Joshua through Kings. Explore stories of war, love, betrayal and revenge that rival anything on a bestseller list. We will be primarily using Robert Alter’s translation. Other translations of Hebrew Bible are acceptable as well. Please bring any Hebrew Bible you might have from home. There are a limited number of texts available for use during class.
Experiencing Israel During War (Beit Midrash)
Sunday, October 25, 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
San Jose resident Anastasia Torres-Gil shares her experiences about what it is like to be in Israel under rocket attack and describes her encounters with Israeli resilience and community there.
AAi Blood Drive (Social Hall)
Wednesday, November 4, 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Join Jews, Christians, and Muslims to assist American Red Cross staff, check-in donors, sterilize chairs and tables in donor waiting areas, refill refreshments for donors post-donation, and ensure donors are feeling well before departure. No experience is necessary! American Red Cross staff will train you to accomplish these tasks easily and safely, providing everything you need. Volunteer to help. Please sign up [here]. Volunteer to donate. Please sigh up [here].
Pinot Noir Passport: A Wine Tasting Around the World (Mercaz)
Sunday, November 8, 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Join us on a tasting journey as we explore the rich and diverse world of Pinot Noir!
How it works:
- Bring a Bottle: Bring your favorite bottle of Pinot Noir to share. (Domestic and/or Kosher)
- Share the Story: Include a few quick tasting notes—tell us about its region, vintage, flavors, or simply why you love it.
- Taste & Vote: We’ll sample the selections together, compare their unique characteristics, and vote on the group’s top favorites!
- Enjoy: Delicious light snacks will be provided to complement the wines.
Once a Paratrooper: The Story of a Lone Soldier in the Gaza War (Beit T’Fillah)
Wednesday, November 11, 7:30–9:00 p.m.
IDF soldier Ira Kohler will speak about his personal experience as a “lone soldier” in the IDF Paratroopers, before, during and after October 7. Mr. Kohler will highlight his 100 days serving at the front in Gaza, the realities of serving as a lone soldier, and the broader lessons and experiences gained from the war. Mr. Kohler will bring copies of his new book, ‘Once a Paratrooper’, for sale this evening. This event is co-sponsored by Beth David membership programming. Cost is $18 per person, please RSVP by November 6. Members, RSVP [here]. Guests, RSVP [here].
Global Shabbat Rhythm and Sound of Africa in celebration of SIGD (Social Hall)
Friday, November 13, 5:30–9:00 p.m.
Join our Global Shabbat service featuring the rhythm and sounds of Africa as we celebrate the Beta Israel holiday of SIGD and the ancient and emerging Jewish communities of Africa. The event is free, but please RSVP [here].