Today is December 11, 2024 /

Shavu’ot

“LOVE THE CONVERT” (Deuteronomy 10:19)

Shavu’ot has always had a special significance for Jews-by-choice.  As the festival on which we celebrate the Revelation at Sinai, we celebrate our ancestors’ decision to accept God’s Torah as well as those who have done so by joining the Jewish people over the centuries. 

Shavu’ot Schedule

Click here to view the live stream of Shavu’ot Services

Tuesday, June 11- Erev Shavu’ot
4:00 PM: Dinner Preparation with Rabbi Lubliner (Sign Up to volunteer)
6:45 PM: Evening Service 
7:15 PM: Dinner (RSVP Required)
Desserts by Margo’s Catering through the evening!
8:15 PM: Study Session  1
9:30 PM: Study Session 2

Study Session Topics

“Really? I Didn’t Know They Had Converted!” – Rabbi Jonathan Lubliner
From the Talmud to the 21st Century, Jews-by-Choice have played pivotal roles in shaping our destiny as a people.  Join us for a fascinating exploration of individuals who impacted Jewish life by their decisions to convert.

Why Judaism Could Not be “Ruthless” – Hazzan Jesse Holzer
You are invited on a voyage into the book of Ruth and the midrashim named after the heroine, the first Jew-by-Choice.

The Mitzvah Map to Conversion – Rabbi Shira Rosenblum
There may be a yellow brick road to Oz, but the road to the conversion isn’t quite so clear cut.  Must one observe all the mitzvot as a prerequisite to becoming Jewish?  If not, which ones are essential?  Beyond the conversionary rituals themselves, what Jewish beliefs and practices are integral to becoming a Jew?

Wednesday, June 12- Shavu’ot Day 1

9:00 AM: Morning Service followed by Kiddush co-sponsored by the Bud Shorstein Kiddush Fund and the Jacksonville Jewish Center in honor of the Foundations of Judaism Class Graduates
Panel Discussion (during sermon block): The Journey to Judaism: Personal Perspectives on Conversion 
10:30 AM Mini/Mighty Minyan: Shavu’ot Style
11:00 AM Gan Shavu’ot
8:15 PM: Minhah followed by study session & Ma’ariv
9:09 PM: Candle Lighting 

Thursday, June 13- Shavu’ot Day 2

9:00 AM: Morning Services followed by Kiddush co-sponsored by the Bud Shorstein Kiddush Fund and the Jacksonville Jewish Center in honor of the Adult B’nei Mitzvah Class
10:30 AM Mini/Mighty Minyan: Shavu’ot Style
11:00 AM Gan Shavu’ot
8:15 PM: Minhah followed by study session & Ma’ariv
9:11 PM: Festival Ends