Board of Jewish Education presents informative programs for month of April
The End of Ambition: America’s Past, Present, and Future in the Middle East
The BJE will host an engaging evening with acclaimed author and foreign policy expert Steven A. Cook 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 15 at Beth Israel in Northfield.
The event will feature a dessert reception followed by a conversation with Cook about his new book, “The End of Ambition: America’s Past, Present, and Future in the Middle East.” Cook will address one of the most pressing foreign policy debates of our era: what role the U.S. should play in the Middle East after decades of war, upheaval and uncertainty.
Drawing on more than 75 years of history, Cook argues that while the U.S. has made serious mistakes in the region, it has nevertheless largely succeeded in protecting its key interests. His talk will explore what went wrong, what lessons can be learned, and what a more disciplined and realistic American strategy in the Middle East might look like today.
Cook is the Eni Enrico Mattei Senior Fellow for Middle East and Africa Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and is widely recognized as one of the nation’s leading experts on Middle East politics and U.S. foreign policy.
Advance registration is required. To RSVP, contact [email protected] or call 609-822-4404 ext. 124. For more information, visit bjeatlantic.org.
Jewish History of Sarajevo Brunch & Learn
Originally scheduled for February but cancelled due to snow\, BJE will present a Brunch & Learn program, “The Jews of Sarajevo,” 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 16 at the Marjorie & Lewis Katz JCC.
The program will take attendees on a journey through the history of Sarajevo’s Jewish community from the 15th century to the present, exploring the rich blending of Sephardic and Ashkenazi traditions that shaped its unique identity. From its origins following the expulsion from Spain to its growth as a vibrant center of Jewish life in the Balkans, the story of Sarajevo’s Jews reflects both cultural creativity and deep communal bonds.
The presentation will also examine the profound challenges faced by this community, including the devastation of World War II and the hardships of the Bosnian War. Through these moments of rupture and resilience, participants will gain a deeper understanding of a community that embodies both the beauty and fragility of Jewish life in Europe.
The event is free, with a suggested $5 donation. RSVP is required by emailing [email protected] or calling 609-822-4404.
“Shabbat & Schmooze” Community Gathering
BJE will host a Shabbat & Schmooze program o10:30 a.m. Friday, April 17 at the Marjorie & Lewis Katz JCC.
Community members are invited to gather for a relaxed Shabbat morning featuring light brunch fare and conversation. The program offers an opportunity to connect with others in a welcoming, informal setting while enjoying a traditional “schmear” and friendly company.
The event is free, with a suggested $5 donation. RSVP is required by emailing [email protected].
Israel Independence Day: 2 Programs
BJE invites the community to two meaningful programs with Josh Wikoff, former IDF lone soldier and author of “Israel: Contested Land, Uncontested Truth.”
As part of this year’s Israel Independence Day observance, community members will have two opportunities to hear from Wikoff and engage in thoughtful conversation about Israel, Jewish identity, and the challenges of our current moment.
The first program will take place 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 21 at Shirat Hayam in Ventnor and will include a dessert reception. The evening will begin with a moving observance of Yom HaZikaron, Israel’s Remembrance Day, followed by an Israel update from the Jewish Federation and Josh Wikoff’s presentation.
The conversation will continue the following morning 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 22 at the Marjorie & Lewis Katz JCC, where guests are invited to gather for a brunch of bagels and shmear and continue exploring the themes of Wikoff’s important new book.
In “Israel: Contested Land, Uncontested Truth,” Wikoff explores the historical, moral and legal foundations of Israel’s legitimacy while addressing the rise of misinformation, antisemitism and anti-Zionist narratives in today’s world. Through research, personal reflection and lived experience, he offers insights that are both timely and deeply personal.
These programs are an opportunity for the community to come together for reflection, learning and conversation during a meaningful moment in the Jewish calendar. Both events are free and open to the community.
Advance registration is required. To RSVP, email [email protected] or call 609-822-4404. More information online at www.bjeatlantic.org
BJE Coffee Klatch and Bagel Brunch to Foster Community Conversation
The Board of Jewish Education will host a Coffee Klatch amd Bagel Brunch 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 23 at the Marjorie & Lewis Katz JCC.
The program offers a casual, community focused setting where participants can discuss local news, current events and issues of shared interest. Designed to be both welcoming and engaging, the gathering will feature coffee and a light brunch in a relaxed, conversational atmosphere.
The session will be moderated by Tina Serota of JFS Lynn Kramer Village by the Shore, who will help guide discussion and encourage thoughtful participation.
The event is free, with a suggested $5 donation. RSVP is required by emailing [email protected].
