Experience Joyous Judaism!
Makom Simcha is the place for Meaningful, inspiring and fun programs at:
Bellerose Jewish Center
254-04 Union Turnpike
Floral Park, N.Y. 11004
(718) 347-2084
Upcoming programs and events:
The Journeys in Judaism Series:
Join Rabbi Menashe Bovit in an exploring and celebrating Jewish spirituality through highly entertaining classes that on a variety of subjects including Kabbalah, Jewish music and meditation, history and archeology, the Hebrew Bible (Torah, Prophets and writings) and much, much more. Every class starts with a mini-concert of Jewish folk music and always includes lively discussion and fellowship. There are no prerequisites, non-denominational and open to people of all backgrounds. See our Events/Classes page for the schedule of classes.
Chavurah (Gathering of Friends):
Hosted in private homes chavurah is a more intimate gathering that includes Torah study, singing, socializing and often a vegetarian potluck. Expand your knowledge while making new friends. Check back for more details.
Shabbat Services:
Creative worship services based upon Jewish tradition that are egalitarian, lively, musical and feature informative, inspiring and entertaining commentary. Who says shul has to be boring? Shabbat mornings at 9am. Innovative Friday night services will begin in the fall. Check back for more information.
High Holiday Services:
BJC has a new chazan! Cantor Yossie Lissauer joined us a few months ago. This year he will be adding his energetic and truly melodic voice to Rabbi Bovit's insightful commentary and inspiring oration to create an incredible davening experience.
Other Classes and workshops:
"Stepping Up To The Bimah" will give you the knowledge and confidence to finally accept that aliyah to the Torah.
Conversion to Judaism: Course begins November 2010
You don't have to be Jewish. You won't go to Hell or be struck by lighting if you're not. You're not an infidel. God is not so small that there can be only one valid spiritual path. However if you feel a sense of special comfort and connection with Judaism/Jewishness; If what you have experienced with it nourishes your soul like nothing else; If your spouse is Jewish and you would like to share in his/her spiritual traditions; If you would like your children to be raised with the values of Judaism; If Judaism's concepts turn you on and its spirituality excites you; Perhaps you are turned on by Judaism's ability to evolve and stay relevant or wish to connect to the root of Western religious traditions and monotheism. If the idea of becoming Jewish seems like coming home, perhaps conversion to Judaism is what your neshoma (soul) needs. This program is unique in that it it is not only a class but is a deep and soulful encounter with Judaism/Jewishness.
Pastoral Counseling:
Rabbi Bovit is available for private appointments. Contact us for details.
Religious School:
The religious school at the Bellerose Jewish Center offers a unique personalized approach that your child will benefit from whether or not he or she has had previous Jewish education or not.
Bar/Bat Mitzvah Instruction:
Even if your family has not been a member of a congregation and your child has little background or classroom experience, she or he can in a reasonably short time be trained to have their Bar or Bat Mitzvah. More importantly your child will be inspired by a unique educational process which is a truly transformational coming of age experience that will be fun, meaningful and designed personally for your child. A package that includes synagogue membership, personal instruction, the service/ceremony and celebration is available. Whether one or both parents are Jewish, the entire family will be included in a unique, meaningful, enjoyable process and ceremony. Contact us for details.
Weddings and Commitment Ceremonies:
Traditional but uniquely personalized Jewish weddings and commitment ceremonies. Contact us for details.
We hope to see you again! Check back later for new updates to our website. There's much more to come! Shalom!
