Jewish Detroit Community Calendar

Once Upon My Mother
2026-05-05 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Detroit) | The Berman Center For The Performing Arts 6600 W Maple Rd,
A box office mega hit, this inspiring, joyful, and heartwarming film is basedon the true story of a Sephardic Jewish mother fiercely determined that heryoungest son lead a full life despite his physical setbacks. Blending humorwith deeply moving moments, _Once Upon My Mother_ is a celebration of thetransformative power of unconditional love. 98 minutes, French.
Tickets: $12 advanced purchase. $15 at the door.
**Silver Film Sponsor:** Opening the Doors a program of Jewish Family Service
**Bronze Film Sponsor:** Congregation Shaarey Zedek Sisterhood
Organized by: The J, Lenore Marwil Detroit Jewish Film Festival
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15000

Debra Nelson Memorial Lecture Featuring Rabbi Elie Kaunfer - "Can American Jews Pray Again?"
2026-05-06 19:00 - 20:00 | Congregation Shaarey Zedek 27375 Bell Rd, Southfield
The entire community is invited to the inaugural Debra Nelson MemorialLecture, as we welcome the world-renowned Rabbi Elie Kaunfer of New York’sHadar Institute.
Please join us to lift up Debra’s memory, and to continue to bring comfort toAlicia and Rabbi David Nelson and their family. We are grateful to theanonymous donor who is generously sponsoring the event.
Can American Jews Pray Again? Prayer, when taken seriously, is miraculous. Ithas the power to elevate us, to bring us closer to God, and focus ourpriorities on what matters. And yet, we are often so far from that experienceof prayer. In this lecture, we will explore strategies to infuse prayer withmeaning. We will ask: Can doubters pray? What do you do when you disagree withthe prayer’s content? Does God really need our praise?
Rabbi Elie Kaunfer is President and CEO of the Hadar Institute. Elie haspreviously worked as a journalist, banker, and corporate fraud investigator. Agraduate of Harvard College, he completed his doctorate in liturgy at theJewish Theological Seminary, where he was also ordained. He also receivedsemikhah from his long-time teacher, Rav Daniel Landes. A Wexner GraduateFellow and Dorot Fellow, Elie has been named multiple times to Newsweek’s listof the top 50 rabbis in America. He is the author of Empowered Judaism: WhatIndependent Minyanim Can Teach Us About Building Vibrant Jewish Communitiesand is completing a book on the Amidah.
Organized by: Congregation Shaarey Zedek
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14793

Love, Statistically Speaking, featuring film short Double Happiness
2026-05-06 19:00 - 21:00 | The Berman Center For The Performing Arts 6600 W Maple Rd,
When an 80-year-old actuary teams up with his free-spirited granddaughter tonavigate a hilarious, heartfelt quest for lost life insurance money, hediscovers along the way that life is full of surprises that can never bemeasured by numbers alone. This feel-good Israeli comedy features a notablecast including Yehoram Gaon, Meshi Kleinstein, and Michal Yanai. 108 minutes,Hebrew.
Opening with short film** _Double Happiness_** __(17 minutes, English), anaward-winning romance/drama celebrating a heartwarming, cross-cultural romancebetween a Jewish widow in NYC and a Chinese-American restaurant owner.
Tickets: $12 advanced purchase. $15 at the door.
**Silver Film Sponsor:** Temple Israel
**Bronze Film Sponsor:** Women of Temple Israel
Organized by: The J, Lenore Marwil Detroit Jewish Film Festival
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15001

Women's Day at Adat Shalom
2026-05-07 09:30 - 15:00
Boutique shopping, speaker, and lunch

Women's Day @ Adat Shalom 2026
2026-05-07 09:30 - 15:00 | Adat Shalom Synagogue 29901 Middlebelt Rd, Farmington Hills
PROGRAM:
9:30am – 11:45am | Registration
9:30am – 3:00pm | Boutiques
11:00am – 11:30am | Meet & Greet with speaker, Linda Gradstein
11:45am – 1:15pm | Speaker and award presentation
1:15pm – 2:15pm | Luncheon and door prizes | 50/50 raffle
Honoring **Lillian Schostak** and **Carol Vieder** as the 2026 SisterhoodWomen of Distinction. Their ongoing presence and dedication to Sisterhood hasbeen invaluable.
Our featured speaker for Women’s Day 2026 is **Linda Gradstein**. Linda is anaward-winning journalist who spent 2 years as the Jerusalem correspondent forVoice of America and CBS Radio. She also teaches journalism at NYU Tel Aviv,and is a frequent guest on the Promised Podcast.
All meals are gluten and dairy free
Organized by: Adat Shalom Sisterhood, Adat Shalom Synagogue
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14735

Reexamining Revelation: Understanding the Ten Commandments
2026-05-07 18:30 - 19:30 | Congregation Shaarey Zedek 27375 Bell Rd, Southfield
We will explore together a surprising connection between two of the Bible’smost pivotal moments.
What if one of the Torah’s most troubling stories – Jacob deceiving his fatherto get a blessing – is actually the key to understanding why God chose theJewish people? As we once again re-approach Sinai on our count-up to Shavuot,are you ready to see the Torah in a whole new light?
Join Ritual Director Saul A. Rube for two Thursday nights: April 30 & May 7 at6:30 PM.
Light snacks will be provided.
There is no fee, but please register by Monday, April 27th.
Organized by: Congregation Shaarey Zedek
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14791

Mix, Match & Mahj!
2026-05-08 12:00 - 15:00, 2026-05-15 12:00 - 15:00, 2026-05-22 12:00 - 15:00, 2026-05-29 12:00 - 15:00 | West Bloomfield Township 5725 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield
Mix, Match & Mahj is a weekly Mahj program held **every** Friday from**12pm–3pm.**
Come enjoy a relaxed, social Mahj experience where players mix and match attables upon arrival—no need to come with a group.
**To help us plan and ensure a smooth experience for everyone, advanceregistration is required.**
Bring your Mahj set and get ready to mix, match, and play!
*** These sessions will take place in West Bloomfield. The address and anyadditional details will be shared directly with registered participants viaemail the week of the event.**
**Register here:** https://www.temple-israel.org/event/MixMatchMahj
Questions? Please email Marni at mmorrison@temple-israel.org
Organized by: Temple Israel
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15437

Chai Women's Israel Trip 2026
2026-05-10 00:00 - 2026-05-19 00:00
Some journeys stay with you forever. A mom’s trip to Israel is one of them.
Join us for an unforgettable trip to Israel that blends Jewish sisterhood,captivating history, exhilarating adventure, and elevated travel.
We’ll explore Israel’s past and present, celebrate Jewish life, and take inthe beauty of the land. Expect laughter, connection,and lasting memoriescreated together.
Join us May 10–19 2026, and return home inspired and connected.
Trip includes:
* 2 days and nights up North in a beautiful boutique hotel * 6 nights in a luxury hotel in the center of Jerusalem * Delicious meals and snacks * Coach bus transportation * Entrance fees to all attractions * Security, tour guides, and 24 hour logistical coordinator
This trip is geared towards active Jewish moms between the ages of 40 and 60.
Price: First time participants: $2,199 + airfare
Returning participants: $3,499+ airfare
*This is a highly subsidized trip. Actual cost per person is $5,500 plus airfare
Spaces are limited; apply today.
Organized by: Partners Detroit
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14854

Resume Writing Workshop
2026-05-11 10:00 - 11:30 | 29699 Southfield Rd 29699 Southfield Rd, Southfield, Southfield Road 29699, Southfield, Michigan, 48076, United States
Join Gesher Human Services for a free Resume Writing Workshop by CertifiedProfessional Resume Writers. Gain valuable tips and tools to write a dynamicresume.
There will be an opportunity to sign up for free 1-on-1 resume assistance atthe conclusion of the workshop.
Organized by: Gesher Human Services
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14471

Glass Demo at Michigan Hot Glass: 6th Michigan Regional Glass Exhibit
2026-05-17 13:30 - 15:30 | Michigan Hot Glass Workshop 1600 Clay St, Detroit
**6th Michigan Regional Glass Exhibition 2026**
**Exhibit Dates:** May 3 – June 24, 2026
**Opening Reception:** Sunday, May 3, 1 – 4 p.m.
**Hot Glass Demonstration by Herb Babcock:** Sunday, May 17, 1:30 PM
**Lecture by Alli Hoag:** Sunday, May 31, 1 PM
**Artist Talk:** Sunday, June 7, 2 PM
Meet up with us at Michigan Hot Glass for a one-of-a-kind demo with glassartist Herb Babcock.
Russell Industrial Center | Exhibition Center
1600 Clay St, Detroit, MI 48211
1:30 PM
Herb received both his BFA and his MFA in Sculpture: his bachelor’s degreefrom the Cleveland Institute of Art and his master’s from the CranbrookAcademy of Art. He also studied Sculpture at the Skowhegan School in Maine andGlass at the Toledo Museum of Art.
He is currently an independent studio artist and Professor Emeritus after 40years as the Glass Department Chairman, College for Creative Studies, Detroit,Michigan.
His work is represented in galleries, museums and collections both nationallyand internationally. His work includes large scale, municipal public artprojects. Herb has a diverse body of work. His sculpture background ispredominately metal fabrication.
Registration is required.
_Special Feature in the Upper Gallery:_**“Tchotchke”** — A tribute to AlbertYoung, legendary artist and founder of Michigan Hot Glass. This showcasebrings to life an exhibit concept he envisioned before his passing.
Artist Spotlight: (TBD)
**Exhibit Sponsors** :
Dr. Judy Balan Pearl, Prudence Bernstein Trust, Esther Hankin, Rebecca & FredHankin, Helene & Arthur Indianer, Manat Foundation, Nancy & Sam Shamie
**Program Sponsors:**
Judy & Dr. John Marx, Arlene & Jack Schultz
For more on exhibits and events, visit[charachgallery.org](https://charachgallery.org/).
**OPEN HOURS DURING EXHIBITS:**
_Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday – 10 am – 4 pm_
_Thursday – 11 am – 7 pm_
_*Visit the website or social media for up-to-date information & holidayclosures._
Organized by: Janice Charach Gallery
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15434

Coffee House Featuring Metro Food Rescue and Detroit Crime Commission
2026-05-18 10:45 - 13:00 | Congregation Shaarey Zedek 27375 Bell Rd, Southfield
Detroit’s Comeback Story – The Other Half Speaks
This is a great opportunity to get an inside scoop on some of the mostrecognized and impactful nonprofits in Detroit.
This month we will feature Chad Techner, Founder and CEO of Metro Food Rescue,and Andy Arena, Executive Director of Detroit Crime Commission. At Metro FoodRescue, they rescue food that would otherwise be discarded and deliver it to anetwork of food pantries throughout Metro Detroit thereby helping to feedindividuals and families in need.
Founded in 2011, the Detroit Crime Commission is an independent, tax-exemptnonprofit organization that works collaboratively with residents and communityleaders to create safe communities for all citizens.
Organized by: Congregation Shaarey Zedek
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14795

The History of Jews in America: A Tikkun Leyl Shavuot Conversation
2026-05-21 18:00 - 21:00 | Congregation Shaarey Zedek 27375 Bell Rd, Southfield
Join us as we celebrate Shavuot through prayer, learning, friendship, andnosh!
At 6:00 p.m., Ritual Director Saul A. Rube will lead us in minchah in-personand online.
Then, at approximately 6:15 p.m., Rabbi Starr and Rabbi Dahlen will lead us ina conversation about the history of Jews in the United States as we celebrateAmerica’s 250th birthday.
We will then conclude our evening by beginning the Shavuot holiday at 8:45p.m., when Hazzan David Propis leads us in Maariv in-person and online
Organized by: Congregation Shaarey Zedek
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14916

Tikkun Leil Shavuot - The Best Jewish Jokes
2026-05-21 20:00 - 22:00 | Adat Shalom Synagogue 29901 Middlebelt Rd, Farmington Hills
Join the clergy for **The Best Jewish Jokes: & What They Reveal About Us**Tikkun Leil (Night of Learning) on Erev Shavuot. Why has humor always beensuch a central part of Jewish culture?
From the shtetl to modern life, Jewish jokes have helped us make sense of theworld. We’ll uncover the insights they offer about Jewish values, history, andthe art of laughing through life.
**_What are you favorite Jewish jokes? You are invited to share your favoritejoke along with the clergy’s favorites_**.
Mincha service (including Synagogue Thrival Kit Celebration of learning
Learning and sharing jokes along with tasty dessert
Ma’ariv service
Organized by: Adat Shalom Synagogue
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15342

L'chaim Club: Potluck Shabbat Dinner for Friends Age 55+
2026-05-29 18:00 - 21:00 | Phil & Hilda Neuman’s Home , Farmington Hills
Supported by the Downtown Synagogue and home-hosted by community members,L’chaim Club is a new potluck Shabbat program for the 55+ crowd. We’ll gatherfor meaningful Shabbat ritual, a delicious meal, new (and rekindled!)connections, and raise a glass together — l’chaim, to life! Come as you areand leave nourished in body, spirit, and friendship.
Our hosts, Phil & Hilda Neuman, will provide the main course and side dishes(vegetarian/dairy). Guests are encouraged to bring a **vegetarian** appetizeror dessert. Space is limited and registration is required. Registeredattendees will receive the address by email a few days before the dinner.
While this program is supported by the Downtown Synagogue, attendees do nothave to be members to participate. Our hope is that this program will continueevery-other month with changing hosts and attendees. Interested in hosting afuture dinner? Contact Marisa Mahoney at[mahoney@downtownsynagogue.org]([REDACTED]
Organized by: Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14333

Community Forum On Dementia - Coping with Challenging Situations in Dementia Care
2026-06-02 11:00 - 12:00
Please join us as Alejandro DeJesus from PAC (The Positive Approach to Care)presents on three topics related to caregiving for someone living withDementia.
Forum hosts: Gesher Human Services, Jewish Hospice and Chaplaincy Network,Jewish Senior Life, The J, Jewish Family Service and The Dorothy and PeterBrown Jewish Community Adult Day Program.
Organized by: Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit, Jewish Senior Life ofMetropolitan Detroit, Gesher Human Services, The J, The Jewish Hospice andChaplaincy Network

Community Forum On Dementia - Humor and Caregiving
2026-06-02 14:00 - 15:00

Community Forum On Dementia - Communication and Dementia
2026-06-02 18:30 - 19:30

Tof Me’od Drum Circle with Hazzan Gross
2026-06-03 19:00 - 20:00 | Adat Shalom Synagogue 29901 Middlebelt Rd, Farmington Hills
Step into the joy of rhythm in a vibrant, welcoming space where the focus issimple: have fun! A drum circle is not only about making music; it is aboutlaughing, connecting, and feeling the shared pulse that lifts everyone up.Rhythm naturally strengthens community, eases stress, sparks creativity, andhelps each person discover their own inner voice.
_No experience needed._ Just bring your enthusiasm, an open heart, and beready for a little ruach, and a whole lot of joy! Drums provided. Space islimited
Organized by: Adat Shalom Synagogue
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15440

Jewish Bar Annual Awards Ceremony
2026-06-04 17:00 - 21:00 | Knollwood Country Club 5050 W Maple Rd, Royal Oak

Gesher Residential Spring Clean-Up
2026-06-07 09:00 - 12:30 | 23800 W 10 Mile Rd , Southfield
**MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN JUST ONE MORNING!**
Gesher Human Services is hosting its **1st Annual Spring Clean-Up **at manyof our 16 residential homes serving individuals with mental health challenges.Whether you have a green thumb, are looking for a meaningful family activity,or want to organize a volunteer opportunity for your company, we would love tohave you join us!
Plant Flowers – Pull Weeds – Lay Mulch – and more!
All ages welcome. No experience needed.
**Date:** Sunday, June 7, 2026
**Time:** 9:30 a.m. – Check-in and Orientation; 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Cleanup at residential homes (Additional details will be provided to registeredvolunteers prior to the event.)
For questions or more information, please contact** Mark Osborne, **Volunteer& Engagement Coordinator, at mosborne@geshermi.org or 248.233.4213.
Organized by: Gesher Human Services
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13702

Artist Talk: 6th Michigan Regional Glass Exhibit
2026-06-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Janice Charach Gallery 6600 W Maple Rd,
**6th Michigan Regional Glass Exhibition 2026**
**Exhibit Dates: **May 3 – June 24, 2026
**Opening Reception: **Sunday, May 3, 1 – 4 p.m.
**Hot Glass Demonstration by Herb Babcock: **Sunday, May 17, 1:30 PM
**Lecture by Alli Hoag: **Sunday, May 31, 1 PM
**Artist Talk:** Sunday, June 7, 2 PM
Hear from our talented glass artists of the 6th Biannual Glass Exhibitionduring our artist talk. Get into the minds and the process behind the makersthemselves and hear their stories!
Registration required.
_Special Feature in the Upper Gallery:_**“Tchotchke”** — A tribute to AlbertYoung, legendary artist and founder of Michigan Hot Glass. This showcasebrings to life an exhibit concept he envisioned before his passing.
Artist Spotlight: (TBD)
**Exhibit Sponsors** :
Dr. Judy Balan Pearl, Prudence Bernstein Trust, Esther Hankin, Rebecca & FredHankin, Helene & Arthur Indianer, Manat Foundation, Nancy & Sam Shamie
**Program Sponsors:**
Judy & Dr. John Marx, Arlene & Jack Schultz
For more on exhibits and events, visit[charachgallery.org](https://charachgallery.org/).
**OPEN HOURS DURING EXHIBITS:**
_Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday – 10 am – 4 pm_
_Thursday – 11 am – 7 pm_
_*Visit the website or social media for up-to-date information & holidayclosures._
Organized by: Janice Charach Gallery, The J
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14607

Bessie Spector Oldest Jewish Americans Celebration
2026-06-12 10:30 - 12:30 | Adat Shalom, 29001 Middlebelt Rd, Farmington Hills, Michigan, 48334, United States
Join us for our 25th annual brunch for community members who are or will be 95 or older by December 31, 2026.
We are excited to welcome honorees, friends and family to a festive brunch with entertainment by Adat Shalom’s beloved Hazzan Gross, who will lead a Broadway sing-along.
Honorees are invited free of charge with a guest.
Additional attendees are $45 per person.
Dietary Laws Observed

Resume Writing Workshop
2026-06-18 10:00 - 11:30 | 29699 Southfield Rd 29699 Southfield Rd, Southfield, Southfield Road 29699, Southfield, Michigan, 48076, United States
Join Gesher Human Services for a free Resume Writing Workshop by CertifiedProfessional Resume Writers. Gain valuable tips and tools to write a dynamicresume.
There will be an opportunity to sign up for free 1-on-1 resume assistance atthe conclusion of the workshop.
Organized by: Gesher Human Services
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14472

Summer Shorts: Three Great Documentaries with Michigan Connections!
2026-07-21 19:00 - 21:00 | The Berman Center For The Performing Arts 6600 W Maple Rd,
**SAVE THE DATE!** Join us for three great documentaries with Michiganconnections:
**_Only Twice A Year _**About the Beth Olem cemetery, inside the GM Poletownplant in Hamtramck.
(Documentary; English; 35 minutes)
** **
**_Sapiro v. Ford: The Jew Who Sued Henry Ford_**
Jewish lawyer, Aaron Sapiro takes on automobile magnate Henry Ford,challenging Ford’s antisemitic attacks with an unprecedented libel suit in aDetroit federal court that riveted the nation.
(Documentary; English; 69 minutes)
** **
**_Mark Schwartz: Luthier, Mentor, Champion of the Arts!_**
Profiles Flint resident Mark Schwartz, who has devoted his life to the localarts community for fifty years – one instrument, one student, one repair at atime. (Documentary; English; 10 minutes)
**Silver Film Sponsor:** SAJE
**Bronze Film Sponsor:** ADL Michigan; Temple Israel Brotherhood
Organized by: Lenore Marwil Detroit Jewish Film Festival
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15093

safeTALK
2026-07-27 09:30 - 13:00 | Jewish Family Service 6555 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield Township
**LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!**
**Become a safeTALK-trained helper and reduce the number of suicides in ourcommunity.**
Most people with thoughts of suicide don’t truly want to die but arestruggling with pain in their lives. Through their words and actions, theyinvite help to stay alive. Those trained in safeTALK can recognize theseinvitations and take action by connecting them with life-saving interventionresources.
* **Free safeTALK training open to anyone over the age of 15.** * **No prior experience is necessary.** * **3 Social Work CEU’s are available for this training at no cost.** Please be sure to provide your license number in the requested field to be eligible to receive these.
**You’ll learn to:**
* Notice and respond to situations where suicide thoughts might be present * Move beyond the common tendency to miss, dismiss, and avoid suicide * Apply the TALK steps: Tell, Ask, Listen, and Keep Safe
Organized by: Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/15427

ASIST Training: Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training - ASIST is a two-day workshop you will need to be present for both full days.
2026-11-04 08:30 - 16:30 | Jewish Family Service 6555 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield Township
**Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)** is a two-dayinteractive workshop that teaches how to recognize when someone may be at riskof suicide and how to work with them to keep them safe. Open to ages 16+.
**You’ll learn to:**
• Understand how personal and societal attitudes affect views on suicide andinterventions
• Provide guidance to a person at risk in ways that meet their safety needs
• Identify key elements of an effective safety plan as well as how toimplement it
**12 Social Work CEU’s are available for this training at no cost.** Please besure to provide your license number in the requested field to be eligible toreceive these.
Organized by: Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14921

ASIST Training: Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training
2026-11-05 08:30 - 16:30 | Jewish Family Service 6555 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield Township
