Stephen Wise Free Synagogue

10/08/2026

Starting November 1. When it comes to Israel, it seems like everyone has an opinion — but not the historical, theological and geopolitical context to back up their positions… And with anti-Israel rhetoric and activity on the rise — in our streets, workplaces and our children’s classrooms — it’s more important than ever for teens and the adults in their lives to engage in these conversations before students head to college.

During this three-session course (Nov 1, 8, 22) for grades 10-12 and their parents, learners will study the historical Jewish connections to Israel, the purpose and definition of Zionism, and what makes Israel unique — and not-so-special — among nations.

Learn more at the link in comments.

10/07/2026

“It is so offensive to so many Jews that it is hard to describe how offensive it is,” Rabbi Hirsch said. “And it exacerbated the feeling that American Jews and New York Jews have had since he first came to prominence, which is that he has a problem with collective Jewish empowerment and he hates the state of Israel.”

Read the article at the link in comments.

10/07/2026

To read Rabbi Hirsch's full statement, visit the link in comments.

10/05/2026

Thu., Oct. 22: Uncover the untold story of the power couple that reshaped New Orleans. 🌟

Join us for the New York launch of Roberta Brandes Gratz’s "Fearless Philanthropy: Edith Rosenwald Stern’s Campaigns to Transform Lives in New Orleans."

When Edith Rosenwald Stern and her husband, Edgar, moved to New Orleans in 1921, they didn't just fit in—they shook up the status quo. Defying local racism and antisemitism, they spearheaded groundbreaking civil rights efforts, co-founded Dillard University, created Pontchartrain Park (the nation’s first FHA-backed Black middle-class community), and helped save the iconic French Quarter.

Event Details:
• Live author talk & Q&A with Roberta Brandes Gratz
• Book signing (copies available for purchase on-site)
• Reception with light refreshments to follow

🎟️ Link to Register in Comments.

10/03/2026

10/02/2026

Stephen Wise Free Synagogue Livestream

09/29/2026

Read James Fanelli's article in the Tuesday, Sept. 29 edition of The Wall Street Journal. Link in comments below.

09/29/2026

Join Rabbi Samantha Natov as, buffeted by nor'easter winds and the sounds of New York City, she takes us on a tour of Stephen Wise's three sukkot.

09/26/2026

09/25/2026

In her Sukkot sermon, Rabbi Samantha Natov asserts that Artificial Intelligence cannot replace embodied, lived human experience. AI may offer efficiency, but offloading critical thinking and life interpretation risks stripping away morality and soul. As with Sukkot, true understanding comes from active participation. As Rabbi Natov highlights, "Sukkot teaches that some forms of knowing cannot be outsourced, because they require dwelling, uncertainty, embodiment, relationship and time." Ultimately, "the method of knowing is dwelling."