The Adult Education Committee of Temple Israel and Temple Concord will hold the program “Bridging Old and New Worlds: How Contemporary Jews Draw upon the Eastern-European Hasidic Movement to Enliven Our Jewish Practice” featuring Rabbi Micah Friedman on Sunday, December 10, from 10 am-noon. Everyone is welcome to attend. There is a suggested donation range of $5-20 per person. Refreshments, including Hanukkah food, will be offered. 

Those interested are asked to RSVP by Wednesday, December 6, by calling or writing the synagogues’ offices: TempleConcordbinghamton@gmail.com or 607-723-7355, or titammy@stny.twcbc.com or 607-723-7461 or 607-231-3746. Walk-ins on the day are also welcome. There will be a Zoom option available; contact the synagogue offices for the link.
“After a joyous, uplifting gathering on November 5 as part of the Global Day of Jewish Learning, the Adult Education Committee is looking ahead to more enriching opportunities to come together,” said organizers of the event. “Rabbi Micah Friedman will offer an innovative, multimedia presentation.” 

In July 2023, Friedman moved to Vestal to serve as the rabbi and spiritual leader of Temple Israel. Raised near Tampa, FL, Friedman was ordained by the faculty of Hebrew College in Boston, where he received a fellowship in contemporary Jewish mysticism. He studied with scholars in a variety of rabbinic disciplines including Talmud, midrash, halachah and Chasidism. He also edited a biography of a Chasidic rabbi titled “Defender of the Faithful.” Friedman has taught people of all ages in a wide range of Jewish communal contexts, including most recently here in the Binghamton area. 

“During this difficult and challenging time throughout the world, it is important and empowering to recommit ourselves to Jewish community and Jewish practice,” organizers added. “Coming together to learn allows us to to assert our faith in our ability to overcome this challenging moment in our people’s history. Please, join us for a joyous, thought-provoking, and community-building morning.”