As part of Congregation Shaarei Kodesh’s commitment to vibrant Torah, thoughtful dialogue, and community engagement, we are hosting a series of guest scholars and signature learning experiences this season. These programs reflect our mission to create sacred space where contemporary issues meet Jewish wisdom, and they serve as key opportunities for relationship-building, visibility, and growth within the broader community.
Yisrael Klitsner, former Diaspora Affairs Advisor to Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, will join us for as our Scholar-in-Residence Saturday morning, focused on Israel Diaspora relations and the evolving realities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The visit will include a D’var Torah and a Lunch & Learn conversation addressing questions such as the future of the two-state solution and the relationship between Israeli society and Jewish communities worldwide.
Join us for a powerful evening of learning and conversation as we explore one of the Torah’s most repeated and urgent themes: the stranger.
Rabbi David Baum will open the program with a brief teaching on “The Story of the Stranger in Judaism and Jewish History,” examining why the Torah commands us no fewer than 36 times to care for the ger/stranger.
We will then hear from Renata, of the Florida Immigrant Coalition, presenting “Who Belongs? Immigration, Community, and the Struggle for Justice in Florida,” offering a real-world perspective on how immigration policies impact lives and how communities are working toward dignity and belonging.
Come ready to think deeply, engage respectfully, and explore what our tradition calls us to do today.
There will be plenty of refreshments for all, please join us.
Wednesday, April 1, 7:30 AM
Join Rabbi Baum and fellow chaverim for our annual Fast of the Firstborn (Ta’anit Bechorot) morning minyan and festive siyyum.
On the morning before Passover, firstborn Jews traditionally fast in gratitude for being spared during the tenth plague in Egypt. It is customary to participate in a siyyum, the completion of a tractate of Talmud, which transforms the fast into a moment of learning and celebration.
This year, Rabbi Baum will complete Masechet Horayot, the final tractate in Seder Nezikin (“Order of Damages”).
Horayot (“Decisions”) explores themes of leadership, responsibility, and communal accountability. Its three chapters address errors in legal rulings, the role of kings and High Priests, and the offerings brought for atonement. The tractate concludes with a powerful discussion about how we value and prioritize members of our community.
You can learn along – click here to read Masechet Horayot in English with commentaries on sefaria.org
Come begin Passover with learning, community, and a meaningful spiritual tradition.
Monday, April 13, 7:00 PM
Join us for a powerful and thought-provoking evening as we commemorate Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day.
We are honored to welcome Vince Pankoke, a retired FBI Special Agent and lead investigator of the internationally recognized Anne Frank Cold Case Investigation. With over 35 years in law enforcement, including work on major criminal and counterterrorism cases, Pankoke led a groundbreaking team that applied modern investigative techniques and artificial intelligence to one of history’s most enduring mysteries: who betrayed Anne Frank and her family.
In this compelling presentation, Pankoke will share insights into the investigation, the ethical complexities behind the case, and what this story continues to teach us about history, memory, and responsibility.
Following the keynote, there will be an open audience Q&A.
We will conclude the evening with a meaningful Maariv service to mark Yom HaShoah together as a community.
Learn more about Vince and his story on 60 Minutes – Click Here
All are welcome.
Shavuot 2026: Spicy Torah Get ready to turn up the heat.
After a year of bold conversations, big questions, and boundary-pushing learning, we’re bringing it all together for an unforgettable Tikkun Leil Shavuot—a full night of Torah that challenges, inspires, and ignites.
Join us as we explore the most meaningful, complex, and “spicy” ideas in Jewish life today—rooted in our sacred tradition and alive in our modern world. Through dynamic sessions, engaging teachers, and powerful conversations, we will journey together toward our own moment of revelation.
All-night learning experience (8:00 PM – 5:45 AM)
Sunrise service to welcome Shavuot
Multiple learning sessions – schedule coming soon Spicy Torah Finale—don’t miss it
Teen Program Included!
Teens are invited to be part of a parallel track designed just for them—real conversations, meaningful learning, and a night they won’t forget.
Bring your curiosity. Bring your questions.
Stay for an hour—or stay all night.
Because Torah should keep us awake!
Spirits of Shabbat – Friday, May 8, 6:15 PM
Join us for our final “Spirits” of Shabbat for the year with Rabbi David Baum and Cantorial Soloist Robin Koota.
This soulful, music-filled Friday night experience blends meditation, meaningful prayer, and live music to help you slow down and reconnect. Through song, silence, and reflection, we create space to leave the week behind and enter Shabbat with intention, presence, and community.
Following the service, join us for an oneg featuring cocktails and mocktails for all.
Join us for a season of learning, inspiration, and conversation.
Each of these programs deepens our shared commitment to Torah, community, and Jewish peoplehood.
Visit www.shaareikodesh.org for updates and registration details.
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