Welcoming Alan Morinis
Author of The Shabbat Effect

The Buffalo Jewish community is excited to welcome back Dr. Alan Morinis during his current book tour. Alan is the founder of The Mussar Institute and one of the leading voices in the contemporary revival of the Jewish spiritual practice known as Mussar.

Mussar is a centuries-old Jewish tradition focused on the cultivation of middot -soul traits such as patience, humility, gratitude, and generosity. Through study and daily practices, Mussar invites us to grow in self-awareness and to live with greater intention and compassion.

Community Jewish educators Evie Weinstein and Susan Schwartz had the privilege of studying with Dr. Morinis in 2013, when he personally trained them as Mussar facilitators. Since then, Susan and Evie have facilitated Mussar groups and developed curricula that have introduced hundreds of people in the Buffalo community to the study and practice of Mussar.

Both Susan and Evie have continued their involvement with The Mussar Institute in their retirement from full-time professional work. Evie co-authored the original Teen Mussar curriculum, “Challenges and Choices,” while Susan has played an active role in the planning teams for the past three Mussar Institute retreats.

Dr. Morinis did not begin his career in Jewish spiritual teaching. A filmmaker, anthropologist, and Rhodes Scholar, he came to Mussar at a turning point in his life and studied with Rabbi Yechiel Perr, who carried forward an unbroken line of Mussar transmission. Alan’s books—including “Everyday Holiness” and “With Heart in Mind,” have helped bring these timeless teachings to modern readers.

Alan’s newest book, “The Shabbat Effect,” explores how the rhythms and practices of Shabbat can deepen our awareness and shape how we navigate our lives throughout the week.

The wisdom of Mussar has been transformative in both Susan and Evie’s lives, and they hope you will join them in welcoming Alan Morinis to our community on Wednesday, April 15, when he will speak about his newest book. A book signing and Q&A will follow his presentation.

For more information and to register, please click here.