Special Programs

Resolving Fears About The Future

Monday, March 27, 2017, 7:30 p.m.
This talk is intended to truly help audience members understand the big Why. Why is it so important to plan for the future instead of just reacting to it? Learn how to have these often-difficult conversations with tips including generational communication differences to using humor and stories to convey concerns.
Presented by Erin Marcus, who has spent more than 15 years working with families as they navigate the different aspects and unique challenges faced by aging loved ones. She is the author of Talking about the End is Only the Beginning. Conversations Every Child Must Have With Their Aging Parents, and her business, Caring Transitions, has assisted families with senior relocation and estate liquidation.

"Nurture the Wow: Finding Spirituality in the Frustration, Boredom, Tears, Poop, Desperation, Wonder, and Radical Amazement of Parenting"

Tuesday, January 24, 2017, 7:30 p.m.
Wine, Cheese & Book Discussion with Author Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg. Described as "deeply affecting, funny, and insightful," this book by a Chicago rabbi and parent of young children teaches us that, if we can learn to approach the demanding and draining work of parenting with a different mindset, then perhaps parenting itself can satisfy our inner spiritual longings and provide the solace we seek. Rabbi Ruttenberg will join us for an evening of thoughtful conversation about raising children, maintaining our sanity, and finding inner balance.

Wise Aging – Living with Joy, Resilience & Spirit

7-Week Session: Dates TBD
In Fall and Winter 2016, trained BJBE lay leaders will facilitate small peer groups on a thought-provoking, seven-session journey to discern the unique opportunities for personal and spiritual growth in the years beyond mid-life. Developed by the Institute for Jewish Spirituality, the program is geared to those in their 50s through active aging. The series will focus on topics including becoming your authentic self, cultivating spiritual qualities for well-being, changing bodies and body images, revitalizing relationships, leaving a legacy, and living with loss, change and death. Wise Aging will be offered at no charge to BJBE members, and space in each group is limited.
Contact: Julie Webb

Tikkun Leil Shavuot – Shavuot Late-Night Learning

Tuesday, May 30, 2017, 7:00-11:00 p.m.

Participate in the tradition of studying Torah on Erev Shavuot, in celebration of receiving Torah at Mt. Sinai. A set of late-night study sessions will be offered by our BJBE clergy and volunteer teachers. 

Contact: Phyllis Steiner