For Communities Community FAQs
The Global Day of Jewish Learning will take place on November 13, 2011. On that day, Jews all over the world will come together to in their communities to study Jewish texts and teachings.
The goal of the Global Day is to have communities from different backgrounds and denominations to come together on November 13th learn as a unified Jewish community. Each community throughout the globe differs – a community could entail your local JCC, synagogues, federation and schools coming together or it could be a collaboration of a number of local synagogues or a chavurah or a Hillel.
Our goal is to spark and nourish a love for Jewish learning – and to celebrate the unity that Jewish learning can engender.
Why participate in the Global Day of Jewish Learning?
The Global Day of Jewish Learning is an opportunity for Jews around the world to unite and share in an historic day of learning and community building. Through participation in the Global Day of Jewish Learning, your community can benefit in many ways:
- Uniting your entire community, regardless of affiliation;
- Partnering with local day schools, synagogues and other local agencies;
- Promoting Jewish education and empowering local educators;
- Using the event as a launching pad for your own community initiatives;
- Including your community in a worldwide, groundbreaking event.
What is Rabbi Steinsaltz’s involvement in this year’s Global Day?
The Aleph Society, Rabbi Steinsaltz’s educational organization in North America is the spearheading organization for the Global Day. Rabbi Steinsaltz continues to be visionary behind the Global Day and its activities. The Global Day was created from his motto – “Let My People Know” and in 2011, the Global Day continues to exemplify his mantra by brining Jewish learning to Jews all across the globe.
This year, Rabbi Steinsaltz will be giving three-twenty minute pre-recorded lectures on the Shema – the unity of the Jewish people (our theme for this year) and he will also be making a special appearance in a community on the Global Day of Jewish Learning which we hope we will be able to telecast live to other communities who want to join in.
Is there a cost to register my community?
No, there is no cost to register your community to participate in the Global Day of Jewish Learning.
What is the curriculum this year?
While each community event creates their own programming, we have developed a curriculum on the Shema – the prayer that defines the unity of the Jewish people which involves a number of different topics. Each community will decide what topics and classes they will offer.
How do I plan my Global Day program?
The Global Day Community Resource Guidebook is the tool that will assist you with your planning process – it offers sample models, programmatic examples from last year and other helpful information about planning your event. If you still have more questions – just email or call Rachel Weiss-Berger.
Why is it only one Day? What happens after?
At each Global Day event, communities will have the opportunity to promote the learning opportunities they provide. The Global Day event should be seen as a springboard for individuals and local communities to explore their relationship to Jewish learning.
