JEWISH IDENTITY
Bet Midrash & Jewish Identity
PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES
Although admiration for traditional values is prevalent in Or Yehuda and Ramat Gan, Torah study is not. Our programs are working to change that and provide a way for all people, young and old, men and women, to experience Torah as something relevant and meaningful to their lives. In parallel with this, we are also working to foster Jewish identity. Read more about our programs below.
Bet Midrash for Men & Women
In our men's Bet Midrash, community members convene for intense Torah study and lessons three times per week, as well as special visit by respected Rabbis once per month. We also offer a women's Bet Midrash, which meets one morning for four hours and one evening for two hours. The study for women includes workshops, lessons, and time for individual learning with partners. There are also special community events which include “Rosh Chodesh” gatherings, the separation of Challah, and more.
Talmud Torah for Children
This program runs three afternoons weekly for an hour and a half each time. The Talmud Torah serves children from grades 1-4, who are divided into two study groups. Staff members include an educational director and two experienced Talmud Torah teachers. There is also a Saturday night program for mutual study between parents and their children.
Bar & Bar Mitzvah
Members of the Garin Torani prepare children for their Bar Mitzvot. The preparation consists of teaching the boys what to do when they are called up to the Torah and reading from the Torah, putting on Tefilin, and basic Jewish concepts are also addressed. We are also preparing for eight workshop sessions for mothers and daughters around the topic of Bat Mitzvah. These meetings will include creative study pertaining to the feminine figures throughout Jewish History. The girls and their families will participate in a moving synagogue ceremony upon completion of the program.
Jewish Identity Center
Through the Jewish Identity Center, we host experiential and special lessons around the Jewish calendar. These activities are held in the schools and after-school programs, where the children are taught about the holidays and special national Jewish events. In addition, we also produce festivities that are open to the general public. The themes of the events align with the holidays and include kids' activities, craft fairs and more. There are also activities for adults in the form of joint study and discussion. The GT, community, and National Service girls work together planning and carrying out the activities. Hundreds of thousands of Or Yehuda residents participate in these annual events.
