PROGRAMS, SPECIAL SERVICES, AND EVENTS
Brooklyn Heights Synagogue is a thriving community with a broad range of events that intentionally are designed for many different constituencies. While much of our regular programming is primarily for members only, there are a variety of other programs on a regular basis that are open to the public and we welcome you to join us. In addition, to our special services and events, there are also lifelong learning opportunities. Learn more.
Click here to view our full calendar of events.
The Other Friday Night
Join us for a special Chanukah edition of The Other Friday Night featuring Shabbat services led by Rabbi Bailey and Ben Romano, where we’ll enjoy latkes and sing together!
Please RSVP here.
Women's Group
The BHS Women’s group gathers to discuss social issues, relationships, relationships, and ideas, while exploring Jewish identity and building community. Please note this is a BHS members only group. For interest in joining, please reach out to ruthgerson@gmail.com.
Men's Group
Men’s group, facilitated by Congregant Jeff Gold, meets together monthly to support one another and hold thoughtful discussions. Please note this group is for BHS members only. For questions or interest in joining, please reach out to Jeff at jeffreygold12@gmail.com.
Chanukah Concert
Come rock out with BHS for a night of music, donuts, and schmoozing! Our family-friendly Chanukah Concert will feature Michelle Citrin, an award winning music producer and singer-songwriter.
Please note this event is for BHS members and Preschool families only.
About Michelle: Michelle Citrin is a Brooklyn-based singer, songwriter, and producer inspired by Rav Kook’s philosophy: “What is old make new, what is new make holy.” She uses music and the creative arts to spark connection with Jewish wisdom and culture in ways that are meaningful, modern, and accessible.
Her celebrated career has earned numerous accolades, including recognition by Time.com in its “Top Ten Jewish Rock Stars” list and by the Jerusalem Post as “The Jewish IT Girl.” Michelle has also been named one of The Jewish Week’s “36 Under 36 Next Wave of Jewish Innovators,” ranked among Billboard Music’s “Top Songwriters,” and honored as a VH1 Song of the Year finalist.
With viral YouTube hits viewed by millions and a globe-trotting Shabbat residency program, Eat.Pray.Sing, Michelle continues to inspire audiences through creative worship, workshops, and performances that build community and bring the spirit of tradition to life.
Get a glimpse of Michelle’s concerts and community impact through a video reel here.
Beginner Hebrew for Adults
Join our Beginner Hebrew for Adults course! New to learning Hebrew? Need a refresher on what you already know? Acquire some vocabulary and grammar skills, and learn how to pronounce (“decode”) any Hebrew word you may encounter by the end of the course.
Taught by BHS Congregant, Leslie Schwartz, who moved to Brooklyn and joined BHS two years ago. She is Professor Emerita of Chemistry at St. John Fisher University, where she taught and did research for 18 years — a Jewish lifetime! Since retiring, Leslie has spent the past 15 years teaching a variety of Hebrew classes. She loves helping adults begin their Hebrew journey and is excited to contribute to adult education at BHS!
Israel Matters: History of Zionism with Rabbi Joshua Weinberg
In this hopeful moment in the Middle East, when a cease fire has been achieved, and the possibility of an enduring peace is being considered, please join us for a 4-part program on the History of Zionism, presented by Rabbi Josh Weinberg, URJ Vice President for Israel and Reform Zionism, and Executive Director, ARZA.
Join our Israel Matters group for this forum on Wednesdays at 7pm on November 19, and December 3, 17, and January 7. Please register here.
Israeli Dance
Join us for Israeli Dance, engaging in mindful movement and learning basic classic and modern Israeli dances. The class is taught by dance instructor Elaine Sohn, who has led the Brooklyn Heights International Folk Dance group for more than thirty years. No prior experience or partners are necessary.
RSVP here.
Tot Singalong & Chanukah Candle Lighting
Join Rabbi Bailey Romano for a special tot singalong and Chanukah candle lighting. For families with young children up to age 5 years old.
Bring your favorite menorah, and we will supply the candles!
Latkes & donuts to follow.
RSVP here.
The BHS Latke VS. Hamantaschen Debate
You've never seen a food fight like this! Come cheer on six zany panelists from the community as they debate the relative merits of the latke vs. hamantash, at this festive Chanukah event.
Come for the laughs, for the chance to vote for the best Jewish-holiday food, and post-debate nosh – latkes and hamantaschen (and vodka) of course! Get ready to shout out our panel:
David Jaroslaw (Our Emcee)
Ross Brown
Cliff Fonstein
Miriam Katowitz
Pam Karlin, Director of BHS Early Childhood Education
Mark Katz
Madison Powers, BHGSY President
*This gathering is suitable for adults, and kids ages 12 and up.
Israeli Movie Watch Group
In our next film group meeting we will discuss A Serious Man, a 2009 film directed by brothers, Joel and Ethan Coen. Please note this group is for BHS members only. No RSVP required.
Shir Shabbat
Join us for an evening of spirit, music and prayer Shabbat Services with the BHS Band! Led by Cantor Ayelet Porzecanski, Rabbi Lippe, and BHS Choir Members.
Moms & Margaritas
With Rabbi Bailey Romano, explore the joys and oys of being a Jewish mother or a mother to Jewish children. Margarita optional! Parents who identify as non-binary are always welcome to attend.
Join us on Thursday January 7, from 7:30-9pm at Custom House on Montague Street.
Book Group
At our next Book Group meeting we will discuss Kosher Soul, by Michael Twitty.
Please note this group is for BHS members only. No RSVP required.
A Mixed Multitude: Medieval & Early Modern Jewish History in Europe, Asia, & North Africa
A Lifelong Learning Class
Getting to Know You Dinners
The Getting to Know You (GTKY) Dinners are a wonderful opportunity for both BHS members and preschool families to connect, whether it’s your first GTKY Dinner or one of many. The evening begins at 5:30pm at BHS with festive cocktails and appetizers, followed by Havdalah. After the service, everyone heads to their dinners at 7:30pm (those who can’t make the cocktail party may head straight to dinner). Anyone with space for six or more guests is welcome to host, coordinating the menu with their guests; hosts typically provide the entrée and guests bring side dishes and dessert. We can’t wait to come together and enjoy good company and a warm evening with our community!
Stay tuned for RSVP information. Interested in hosting? Click here!