Discussion Groups, Conferences and Seminars
In addition to family events, JCSS adults enjoy monthly Sunday
morning discussion groups. Adults may also participate in conferences/seminars hosted by CSJO, the Society for Humanistic
Judaism, the International Federation for Secular Humanistic Judaism. JCSS also co-sponsors trips to the theater, concerts,
museums, historic sites and events. Our Adult Program chair is a nationally known lecturer and writer on Secular Jewish topics.
He has published numerous articles in Jewish magazines and has spoken at North American conventions.
Unless otherwise noted, the JCSS holds these meetings at
10 or 10:45am (see full schedule) in the same rented facilities used for Sunday
morning children's classes and members' meetings: at the West Orange JCC (760 Northfield Ave) in the Early Childhood Wing.
Enter from the rear parking lot.
ALL ARE
WELCOME! Members are encouraged to bring family and friends.
For further
information contact Bennett Muraskin @ 973-734-1972 (h), 908-964-8476 (w), bmuraskin@optonline.net.
Check back here for updates to the schedule.
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Adult Program Calendar 2011-2012
September 18, 2011 10:00 AM
Introduction to Secular Humanistic Judaism:
Bennett Muraskin, adult education director, author and columnist will discuss the roots,
development and current expressions of secular humanistic Judaism---a challenging way to be Jewish, based on shared culture,
history and ethics. What do we have in common with Jews on the religious spectrum?
How are we different? How do we relate to Jewish tradition? Who are our leading thinkers? Come and find out and bring your friends.
November 6, 2011
10:00 AM
Field Trip to National Museum of American Jewish History:
Carpool
to Philadelphia to visit this brand new museum located on
Independence Mall. Then at 2 PM, attend a special event at the museum sponsored
by our sister organization, the Secular Jewish Community of Greater Philadelphia, in honor of the centennial of secular Jewish
schools and summer camps in North America. Meet other secular humanistic Jews
and learn about our rich history as a movement in American Jewish life. Featured
speaker: Adam Chalom, Dean of the International Institute for Secular Humanistic
Judaism. Entertainment includes klezmer and Jewish choral music. Reception will follow. Contact
Bennett Muraskin for information on advance reservations.
December 4, 2011 10:00
AM
The Dreyfus Affair: Anti-Semitism
and the French National Character: In 1894, a French military court convicted Alfred
Dreyfus, a young Jewish artillery officer, of treason. Although an investigation proved his innocence, he remained in captivity
on Devil’s Island until he was pardoned by the French President in 1899. His exoneration
and reinstatement in the army did come until 1906. This case, one of the greatest
political scandals in history, divided France
into warring camps, with the military, the Church and other anti-Semites pitted against the defenders of democracy and civil
rights. What does this “affair” tell us about modern anti-Semitism and the search for “national identity”
today? Join Abbie Gorin, former JCSS teacher, for a stimulating presentation. Abbie is an attorney for Essex Newark Legal
Services where he advocates for tenant and homeowner rights.
January 8, 2012 10: 00 AM
Secular Jewish Summer Camps for Your Kids: As you begin planning
for your children’s summer, why not consider giving them a secular Jewish camping experience? Come and
listen to spokespersons from three of them: Camp Kinder Ring in Hopewell Junction,
NY, sponsored by the Workmen’s Circle, Camp Shomria in Liberty,
NY, sponsored by Hashomer Hatzair and Camp Kinderland in Tolland Massachusetts. All
three are Jewish, secular and promote progressive humanist values. See what they
have to offer, pick up literature/videos and ask questions. JCSS is proud to
offer this opportunity to enhance your children’s Jewish identity in a fun filled
and caring environment.
February 12, 2012 10 A.M.
Jews and Rock 'n Roll: From the earliest days of Rock 'n' Roll right through today, Jews have played an important part in
the development of the genre. Come hear about Jewish disc jockeys, promoters, managers, songwriters and performers and
their contributions to the music that has shaped three generations. Whether you are a hard-core fan or just a general music
lover, you will tap your feet, sing along and leave this program with a new appreciation of the Jews who have made this music
their own! Susan Ryan is a member of The City Congregation in New York City. She has been a rock music and popular culture maven for over 36 years,
and is an acknowledged expert on The Beatles.
March 25, 2012 10 AM
The Bible: The Greatest Marketing Tool Ever Written:
Bernard Beck, professor of marketing at Rutgers University, will discuss the significant of the Bible in the formation of the Jewish
people. He will show how the ancient biblical narrative used modern day marketing techniques to mold the tribes of Israel into a unique and proud nation. Combining marketing
methodology with scholarship, Beck will bring the Bible alive in a way you have not appreciated before. Come join us for a fresh and provocative presentation on the “greatest story every told.”
April 22, 2012 10 AM
Holocaust Memorial: In memory of the martyrs and victims
of the Holocaust, Bennett Muraskinwill lead a Holocaust memorial including readings,
poetry and song. You are invited to bring your family memories to share with the group.
May 6, 2012 10 AM
Jewish Short Stories:
Come and listen to some of the greatest Jewish short stories read by celebrities such as Leonard Nimoy, Rhea Pearlman,
Julie Kavner, Eli Wallach and Alan King.
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All sessions, unless otherwise noted, take place at the JCC 760 Northfield Ave West Orange, NJ in the Early Childhood Center. Park in the rear lot and enter through the sliding glass doors.
For further information contact Bennett Muraskin at 973-734-1972 (h) 908-964-8476 (w) or bmuraskin@optonline.net
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