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Shavuot 5785

Shavuot is the "time of the giving of Torah," marking the mythical moment at Sinai when the Israelite people entered into covenant with the Source of Life and with one another. One Shavuot tradition is the Tikkun Leil Shavuot, an all-night study session as we prepare ourselves to receive Torah once again. Join CDT for the first part of the evening at our own tikkun, after which there are other communal opportunities to continue the study!

CDT Tikkun Leil Shavuot

Sunday, June 1, 8:00 pm-midnight
60 Highland St, West Newton (and first session on Zoom)

This year, we once again dedicate our Shavuot learning to the memory of CDT rebbetzin Gina Fried z”l, a master teacher in our community and beyond. We will also be remembering CDT member Bob Hausman on the occasion of his 2nd yahrzeit.

We are thrilled to kick off our evening of learning at 8pm with From Despair to Hope, Biblical Styles with Dr. Susie Tanchel. Susie is a CDT member and a beloved teacher here.She is a Bible scholar, and served as Head of School at the Jewish Community Day School for many years before her current position as Vice President of Hebrew College. This session will be both in person in the CDT sanctuary and accessible on Zoom. We’ll end this session with the lighting of the yizkor and holiday candles, with a special remembrance of CDT member Bob Hausman on the occasion of his yahrzeit. We will then continue in person:

9:15pm  Two Workshops:

Restorative yoga with Laya Steinberg: Come practice some gentle yoga to get your energy flowing and your heart opening to possibility and receptivity. No experience necessary!  Bring your own yoga mat, or some will be provided.

Creative Text Study with Matthew Valleau: We'll dive into sacred texts and explore the powerful themes of Shavuot together. We’ll then engage in a creative, hands-on exploration to bring these timeless ideas to life using mixed media and reflective practice. Come learn, create, and be inspired!

10:15pm  Nosh Break
Tea/coffee, cheesecake (plus dairy alternatives) and shmoozing!

10:45pm  The Torah of Elisha ben Abuyah with Rabbi Toba 
In a powerful midrash related to the Book of Ruth (which is traditionally read on Shavuot), we’ll learn about the life and teachings of the Talmud’s most famous rebel and heretic, Elisha ben Abuyah (also known as “The Other”), and his beloved student, Rabbi Meir. As many of us struggle to stay connected to Jewish teachings and community in these painful times, what does “the Other” have to say to us?

11:40pm  Preparing to receive Torah - a meditation

Come to any part or all of the evening! Guests are welcome.

Zoom Tikkun Shavuot with Temple Israel of Boston

Sunday, June 1, 5:00 pm-Monday, June 2, 6:00 pm
Zoom

Learn alongside people from around the world as dozens of teachers, artists, and facilitators lead us in study, prayer, art making, music and more over 25 hours in the zoomosphere. Sessions run back to back all night and day, and you can pop in for an hour or two, or brew a pot of coffee and stay with us for the long haul. Visit the Temple Israel website for more details.

Community Tikkun Leil Shavuot

Sunday, June 1, 8:00 pm-Monday, June 2, 4:00 am
Children's program: Sunday, June 1, 5:30-9:45 pm
Kehillath Israel, 385 Harvard St & 100 Centre St, Brookline

Want to continue the learning after we finish at CDT? Join with members of the greater Boston community for an evening of learning, song, sermon slam, and more! Full schedule and registration info can be found at https://sites.google.com/view/shavuotbrookline/home.

Thu, May 22 2025 24 Iyyar 5785