Temple Israel will host this year’s Intersisterhood event on Tuesday, September 24, at 7 pm. The evening will feature a presentation by Dr. Allan Arkush on “Reconstructing the High Holidays.” Following the presentation, attendees will enjoy a musical interlude by Kaskeset, Binghamton University’s Jewish a cappella group. The program will begin with time for refreshments and schmoozing. All members of the community are welcome to attend; the cost for the event is $6. The event is made possible by the generous sponsorship of the Victor and Esther Rozen Foundation, Those interested in attending are encouraged to make reservations by contacting their synagogue office by Friday, September 20, to ensure a spot. The phone numbers for the synagogues are Beth David 607-722-1793, Temple Concord 607-723-7355 and Temple Israel 607-723-7461.
Attendees will also have the chance to participate in a raffle, thanks to the generous donations from local organizations. Prizes include two memberships in the Binghamton Philharmonic’s “Best Seats Club,” tickets to a KNOW Theatre production, gift certificates for PS Restaurant, Weis Markets and Price Chopper, and tickets for an Anderson Center concert.
Arkush is a distinguished scholar who has been teaching courses on modern Jewish history and thought at Binghamton University since 1987. He is also a senior contributing editor of the Jewish Review of Books, a position he has held since 2009. His talk will explore the ethical significance of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, drawing on the perspectives of Rabbi Mordechai Kaplan, the founder of Reconstructionist Judaism. “Attendees can expect a deep and engaging discussion on how these holidays continue to resonate with contemporary ethical challenges,” said organizers of the event.
Organizers continued, “This event promises to be a rich experience, combining thoughtful intellectual discussion, inspiring music and a strong sense of community, all in preparation for the High Holidays. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of these sacred days and connect with fellow community members.”