Jewish Life & Learning
Our mission is to offer diverse pathways and opportunities for our members to connect to Jewish knowledge, tradition, values, and community in a personally meaningful way.
AN EVENING WITH GEORGIA HUNTER
In Honor of International Holocaust Remembrance Day
January 27, 2026 • 7:00 pm • Hart Theater
Generously underwritten by Terri and Harold Bobry
For more information on Georgia Hunter, please visit www.georgiahunterauthor.com or www.prhspeakers.com.
Highlights
Tu B'Shvat Seder
Join us for a beautiful Tu B’Shvat Seder! Share in the warmth of community, enjoy a delicious meal, and celebrate Shabbat at the JCC. It’s a chance to connect with others, foster new friendships, and celebrate together.
Ancient Lives, Modern Lessons
An Interfaith Exploration
Join us for a unique four-part Lunch & Learn series where timeless stories inspire thought-provoking conversations.
Holey Wholly Holy
Visualizing Jewish Disability Justice
B’tzelem Elohim: we are all created in God’s image. Whatever shape we’re in, we’re all simultaneously messy and gloriously whole and dignified. How can visual imagery help us envision a more just, inclusive world for people of all abilities?
JReads
Each month a different member of our community will choose a book to share that they are passionate about. There will be time for discussion and Q&A — and snacks!
Ancient Lives, Modern Lessons
An Interfaith Exploration
Join us for a unique four-part Lunch & Learn series where timeless stories inspire thought-provoking conversations.
Holey Wholly Holy
Visualizing Jewish Disability Justice
B’tzelem Elohim: we are all created in God’s image. Whatever shape we’re in, we’re all simultaneously messy and gloriously whole and dignified. How can visual imagery help us envision a more just, inclusive world for people of all abilities?
Behind the Mask
A Creativity Workshop for Purim
This Purim, step into a joyful space where creativity and spirituality intertwine. No art skills are needed — only curiosity and a willingness to explore!
Nina Is An Athlete
Don’t miss this powerful and uplifting documentary about Nina Gorodetsky, the remarkable Israeli badminton champion who competes from a wheelchair. This is her pivotal moment—her first and possibly final opportunity to qualify for the Paralympics.
Guy Mintus
Live in Concert
Don’t miss the chance to witness Israeli-born, award-winning pianist, composer, vocalist, and educator Guy Mintus — a true force in Jazz, Classical, and World music.
Jewish Life Programs & Events Calendar
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Opportunities to Connect
Torah & Tea with Rishi
Wednesdays, 10:30am–12pm
A weekly meetup for women
Looking for inspiration? Camaraderie? Spiritual insights into life? Stimulating conversations? This weekly informal get-together, facilitated by Rishi Hein, is designed to do this. Drop in for this informal weekly meetup with friendly Jewish women. Free
Weekly Torah Wanderings with Rabbi Michael Silbert
Wednesdays, 10–11am
Join us for an exploration into the week’s Torah reading as we examine this ancient text together, connecting with its enduring meaning and drawing on its contemporary relevance. Free
Singing with Rabbi Silvana
Sundays, 9:30-10:30am; Before/After Care Rm 6
- September 14
- October 12
- November 23
- December 14
Silvana Bacman will lead a 30-minute Jewish-focused, engaging, and interactive session for the under-five crowd, which will include music, singing, and dance—no registration necessary – open to all.
Bagels and coffee provided.
FREE and open to all (non-members are welcome).
Shabbat Sing
Kick-off each Shabbat at the Louis. S. Wolk JCC with Shabbat Sing! Join the Wolk Children’s Center to welcome Shabbat every Friday with singing, prayers, and ruach (spirit). All are welcome!
Sha-Baby: Shabbat Sing, Storytime, and Sensory Play
Starts September 5
Fridays, 10-11am Cafe Lobby/Family Room
Enjoy a morning filled with music to start your Shabbat! We will join the Wolk Center’s Shabbat Sing in the café and, afterward, spend time in the family room playing, reading stories, and having fun.
Songs and Play with the Shinhinim
Begins September 29
Mondays, 10-10:30am
Ages 0-5 with a caretaker.
Singing Hebrew songs, learning a Hebrew word of the week, and playing games led by the ShinShinim (Israeli Teen Ambassadors).
FREE and open to all (non-members are welcome).
Jewish Arts + Culture
Authors + Innovators Festival
For 30 years, you’ve connected with your favorite authors and to other readers who care about books as much as you do fostering important community conversations. The new Lane Dworkin JCC Rochester Authors + Innovators Festival expands the core of a Book Festival beyond a traditional lineup by welcoming creative innovators to share their world-changing ideas and adding interactive workshops and events. Learn More
Rochester Jewish Film Festival
The JCC established the Ames Amzalak Rochester Jewish Film Festival to present the best contemporary Jewish-themed films from around the world to the Rochester community.
RJFF exists to promote awareness and pride in the diversity of all people; to strengthen community consciousness of Jewish identity, history, and culture; to provide a forum for community gatherings that allows valuable dialogue; and to create an international showcase for filmmakers who are Jewish or whose work explores Jewish themes. Learn More