Can we create meaningful moments for ourselves and our loved ones through simple rituals inspired by Jewish wisdom and global traditions? How can we mark life's milestones in a way that fosters lasting memories?
Join us on a journey to explore traditional Jewish rituals alongside practices from diverse cultures. Discover how these traditions can cultivate mindfulness and enrich our presence in both daily life and special occasions—helping us fully embrace the moment and create lasting memories.
- Session 1 | March 4 | Shabbat | Raise a Glass! (But not too many?!) The Role of Wine in Judaism—Is It Really That Special?
- Session 2 | March 11 | Purim | Dressing the Part: How Special Garments and Accessories Shape Our Emotions in Everyday and Special Moments
- Session 3 | April 1 | Passover | Breaking Matzah, Breaking a Glass: Why Do We Break Things at Life's Most Joyous Moments?
- Session 4 | April 22 | Yom HaShoah and HaZikaron | Gathering the Light: Fire as a Central Symbol in Jewish and Global Rituals
- Session 5 | May 6 | Counting the Omer | The Final Countdown: Why Are We Obsessed with Numbers—and Who is Omer Anyway?
- Session 6 | May 20 | Shavuot | Feasting with Meaning: How Food-Centered Rituals Help Us Connect, Celebrate, and Remember
Tova Birnbaum is a faculty member at the Mandel Institute for Nonprofit Leadership and a Rabbinic Ordination student at the Shalom Hartman Institute. She was the Director of Jewish Content at the Oshman Family JCC and a Senior Jewish Education Specialist at the JCC Association. Tova was born in B'nai B'rak, Israel, in an Ultra-Orthodox home, and was one of the founders of the BINA Secular Yeshiva in Tel Aviv, where she was a faculty member. She also served as the Central Shlicha (emissary), Director of the North America Region of the World Zionist Organization. Tova is a Judaic studies teacher, theater midrash workshop facilitator, and a secular Jewish life cycle ceremonies officiant. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School and on the Birthright Israel International Education Committee. Tova holds a bachelor's degree in psychology and Jewish philosophy and a master's degree in theater. Tova and her husband live in Mountain View and are the proud parents of two daughters.
Tuesdays, March 4, 11, April 1, 22, May 6, 20
9:00–10:30 AM
Leslie Community Meeting Room (Bldg. D), Room D-129
$18 Single session | $95 Six Sessions
Contact: Luba Palant | [email protected]
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