Judaism offers many ways for us to imbue our lives with meaning and purpose.  At this year’s Neshama Women’s Retreat, we will focus on one of these many paths - the way of blessings.  Many of us know at least a few Jewish blessings - like the motzi that we say over challah at the shabbat table.  Blessings, in the words of one of my teachers, help us recognize - and create - holiness in this world.  At a time when so much around us feels downright unholy, we’ll take this retreat time to count our blessings, and find ways of returning to our everyday lives with a sense of renewal.

Jen is a teacher at Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School and an instructor with Lehrhaus Judaica. Ordained from HUC-JIR, she has a deep interest in teaching Jewish adults; she wrote her rabbinical school thesis on the spirituality of adult Jewish learning.  A spiritual seeker herself, and a lifelong outdoorsperson, she recently completed the Torah Trek Guides Track, a program focused on Jewish spiritual practice in nature.  She is also a current participant in Kol Zimra, a Jewish chant leader training program with Rabbi Shefa Gold. A former rabbi/educator at Congregation Beth Am in Los Altos Hills, Jen came to the Bay Area in 2008, and she lives on the Peninsula with her family.

Don't be disappointed - register early to assure yourself a place in this popular program (limited to 36 participants).  Registration is open to members only.  Prices will go up beginning March 31 if spaces remain.  The Congregation never wants money to be a barrier to full participation in our community.  If you would like to attend but feel that you can't afford the full cost, please contact our executive director, Ellen Bob, to make alternative arrangements.