Green 27
Miracles were once a key butress to religious belief, but in recent centuries they seem to have become an embarrassment. Can God intervene in history without ripping the fabric of causation and human freedom? We'll look at texts from Saadia to Rosenzweig, and at the science of randomness and chaos to see if there's still room for miracles.
Orange 10
We tell ourselves that we can't vote in Israeli elections so how can we be responsible for its government's policies? Yet Israel claims to be a home for all of us, and to represent all Jews. So, do they have nothing to do with us? What if they betray our principles of justice and law - are we complicit? And if not, can we do anything?
Red 2
Some think Secular Judaism is subtraction, deleting religion from Jewish life with nothing to meet those human needs. Jewish life is enriched by a positive focus on what human knowledge and power can do to understand and improve the world. “Whence cometh my help?” asks Psalm 121. Secular Humanistic Judaism responds, “From you, from me and from us.”
Red 5
There are a number of challenges facing the Jewish community. Antisemitism is on the rise, Brexit is on the horizon and shul membership is declining. How is the Board of Deputies of British Jews facing up to these challenges? Is it still relevant in these turbulent times?
Red 3
We will explore how miscarriage, infertility and childlessness affect us as Jews & as people. A safe space to share our stories, try to make sense of them in relation to the Jewish narratives, and to consider creating our own rituals for healing, transition & acceptance. Open to women, men, singles, couples of any persuasion.
Blue 32
Breaking bread, broken vows, and saving lives. Limmud takes you one step further in your daf yomi.
Green 26
It's not about what we want to be, it's about HOW we want to be. Come to this session and learn what essential skills every leader needs. Walk out with the necessary tools for an individual to hold in their toolbox to be more successful.
Red 7
Jewish spirituality is simple (but not always easy!) and anyone can begin to explore their own Jewish spiritual path. This session will be active and participatory – be prepared to talk, think and reflect. No special knowledge is required – anyone can join whether you think you are religious or secular; knowledgeable or not.
Blue 33
Artist Jacqueline Nicholls will describe her Jerusalem Dreams art installation, which was part of the Jerusalem Biennale. It explores the many versions of a heavenly Jerusalem, the threads of connection between William Blake/Hubert Parry’s Jerusalem, the Jewish longing for “Next Year In Jerusalem” and the Balfour Declaration.
Yellow 21
I wanted to do my part to help repair the world (tikkun olam) so I used the web and built a billion dollar global industry. Do you want to know how? Come and hear my story. A tale of Rabbis and miracles. A tale of Jews, Christians, Muslims and a Marxist. A tale of fake news and fishing. [Obviously I won't be a secret any more after this session.]
Orange 12
In this session, we will explore the use and abuse of photographic images during and after the Holocaust. Join us to learn about the work of Heinz Jost, Henryk Ross, and Francisco Boix Campo as we think about ways photographs can be used to perpetuate victimhood and how to avoid it. Suitable for all, no prior knowledge required.
Linda Berkowitz David Bilchitz UK Jewish Film Festival Adam Schwarz
Orange 13
Introduced by Linda Berkowitz, this powerful film explores the role of South-African Jews in the fight against apartheid. Followed by a discussion with invited speakers Adam Schwarz and David Bilchitz. An Act of Defiance | 124 mins | Netherlands & South Africa | 2017 | Dir Jean van de Velde
Red 4
Rav Kook was one of the spiritual giants of the 20th century. In these sessions we will explore his revolutionary approach to the nature of Israel, his thoughts on Divine service, and his goal of bringing redemption through the reconciliation of the particular and the universal.
Green 25
What moral & emotional qualities, what faith, enables communities & individuals to withstand fear & suffering while maintaining their values? Rabbi Leo Baeck was head of German Jewry from 1933 till his deportation in 1943. He survived, teaching the prophets of Israel despite the horrors of Theresienstadt. What gave him such strength?
Blue 34
Israeli Filmmaker Yariv Mozer will share the fascinating story behind the making of the documentary film "Ben-Gurion, Epilogue". The session includes excerpts from the film and deleted scenes from the previously unseen interview with Israel's founder, David Ben-Gurion.
Orange 11
Benjamin Disraeli, an enigmatic figure of 19th century Britain. A publisher, novelist, politician and finally twice prime minister. Born a Jew and baptised at the age of twelve. What were his true feelings about Judaism in later life? Was he play-acting the "Christian" part as a means to an end?
Red 1
The Commonwealth contains 53 nations across the world and Israel is always on the look out for international allies. As a former British mandate territory it definitely qualifies. But could it/should it join? Howard and Clive, both heavily involved in the Commonwealth Jewish Council, will explore the possibilities and dream.