Community Calendar

Can We Still Be Optimistic About the Future? Judaism says yes. But perhaps not for the reason you think. The headlines give us plenty of reasons to worry. What gives us reason to hope?What if the world isn’t broken… just unfinished? Join us for Can We Still Be Optimistic About the Future? A thought-provoking five-session journey into Moshiach, redemption, and the future Judaism envisions. Explore a bold vision of what’s ahead and discover how it can change the way you see your life today. Find deeper purpose in the ordinary, a fresh perspective on human potential, and reasons for optimism that go beyond wishful thinking. Come with your questions. Bring a friend. Enjoy a lavish brunch and a conversation worth having.  Five Sundays. Five big questions: 1️⃣ What if the world isn't broken… just unfinished? 2️⃣ Are you seeing reality… or just the surface? 3️⃣ Who would you be if you had nothing to prove? 4️⃣ What if your ordinary life is more sacred than you think? 5️⃣ What if the future has already begun? 📅 Sundays, 11 AM – 12 noon, starting November 8 📍 Jewish Discovery Center, 831 Maple Rd., Williamsville 🥐 Lavish brunch served · All welcome · […]

Our mini chefs will join together to cook, bake, create fun crafts, while learning about Jewish themes! From Latkes and Doughnuts, to Chanukah cookies and Caesar salad, our mini chefs will learn about mitzvahs through foods and crafts they create. Additionally, a portion of the food will always be shared with those who are less fortunate.

Join us for a guided tasting on the Agave Trail, Tequila meets Mezcal. For those 21 and older. Enjoy 6 premium Agave Spirits with chef-inspired pairings. Registration is required, to reserve your spot please complete the registration form: https:bit.ly/4zMOJaE. Contact Aramand Morrison with any questions, 716-983-8557.

Everyone is welcome.

Hanukkah Toolkit: Bring Hanukkah to the Classroom! Help share the joy and traditions of Hanukkah with your child’s or grandchild’s classroom! PJ Library and Buffalo Jewish Federation invite parents and grandparents to bring a little Hanukkah magic into local classrooms with our Hanukkah Toolkit! Designed to make sharing the holiday easy and fun, each toolkit includes everything you need to lead an engaging, age-appropriate Hanukkah experience, including a simple lesson plan, stories, hands-on activities, and more. No teaching experience necessary! Whether you're sharing Hanukkah traditions for the first time or continuing a family tradition of classroom visits, this is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Jewish identity while helping classmates learn about the holiday. Location: JCC Benderson Building Lobby We look forward to helping you bring the light of Hanukkah into your classroom!

Kabbalah and the Hidden Architecture of You Reincarnation, Soulmates, Dreams, Names—What These and Other Mysteries Say about the Design of Your Life A six-week course on concepts from kabbalah and how these concepts come together to answer some of life’s biggest questions. Instructor: Rabbi Laizer Labkovski No charge, all are welcome! Hot dinner served

Jewish Men Rooted, facilitated by local clergy and educators, is an opportunity for men to gather over food and drink for casual conversation about issues and events that matter; politics, Jewish culture, antisemitism, and celebrating our collective experiences through a Jewish lens. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Join this zoom only program with Rabbi Sara Rich. Bring your favorite Torah commentary as we study the weekly parsha together. For more information or to register, email Rabbi Sara Rich at [email protected].

Where it's fun to be Jewish at Jewish Discovery Center - 831 Maple Rd. Dinner served at 5:00 PM For more information call Brocha Leah Greenberg at 716.908.0133 https://jewishdiscovery.org/jem

Errol Craig Sull, well-known baker and long-time JCC member, will be offering baking demonstrations.  This is an event you do not want to miss!  Each event begins with Errol’s Fun Food Facts, then goes into the interesting science behind baking (e.g., just why IS it called double-acting baking powder?), and the piece de resistance:  each person in attendance gets to sample the desserts!  Errol is well-known for his monthly baking demonstrations at Whole Foods, his over-the-top cakes (you’ll never find them in a bakery), and gregarious personality. You must register for this presentation. 

Jewish Men Unscripted, facilitated by local clergy and educators, is an opportunity for men to gather over food and drink for casual conversation about issues and events that matter such as fatherhood, politics, Jewish culture, and antisemitism. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Center for Jewish Life invites you to a Pre-Chanukah Menorah Workshop • Ladies, come together for a fun and relaxing night out • Design your own stunning resin and glass menorah • Discover the deeper meaning of the Chanukah • Enjoy rosé and delicious Chanukah refreshments

Timeless lessons for real life from the Torah’s first book. The stories of Genesis are our family’s story, filled with big dreams, difficult choices, strained relationships, and remarkable courage. From Adam and Eve to Abraham and Sarah, from Jacob and Esau to Joseph and his brothers, discover how these foundational stories speak to the challenges we face today. Each class explores the weekly Torah portion, uncovering insights into faith, family, identity, and purpose, with practical lessons to bring into your own life. No prior knowledge necessary. Each class stands on its own, so join us whenever you can. Refreshments served. Also available on Zoom.

Enjoy a complimentary, delicious lunch while listening to an engaging discussion of Jewish ethics from practical as well as spiritual perspectives.

Held every Wednesday, a brief yet restorative healing serivce with music, meditational moments, and words of prayer.

This course is a welcoming exploration of Jewish beliefs, traditions, values, and culture. Designed for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of Judaism, including those who are exploring conversion, members of interfaith couples, and those who are curious to learn more. Through discussions on Shabbat, holidays, spirituality, ethics, Israel, Jewish history, and contemporary Jewish life, participants will gain a deeper understanding of what it means to live Jewishly today. Experiential opportunities, including a Shabbat dinner and a Hebrew session, will complement classroom learning. No prior Jewish knowledge is required. 16 sessions plus a 1 week Hebrew 'intersession' CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Join us for the annual business meetings and election of officers of the Buffalo Jewish Federation & Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies

Gate to the Heart In this class, you’ll combine text study, introspective conversation, and simple meditation to introduce the basic concepts of Kabbalah and to experience the reality those ideas describe. Work from the book “Gate to the Heart” by Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi and explore ‘four worlds’, Sefirot, levels of the soul, and different modes of encounter with The Divine. No experience with either Kabbalah or meditation is required, only openness and curiosity. Wednesdays 7:00 - 8:00 pm 8 weeks: October 14 – December 23 Cost: $180 (plus cost of book) Instructor: Rabbi Shlomo Schachter CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Happiness is Learned. Your weekly dose of Jewish inspiration. Hot dinner served The Torah Studies class brings you the tradition of classical Jewish learning in a series of enticing weekly classes. Each class introduces ideas and issues from the current weekly Torah portion and, through discussion and debate, creates a meaningful connection between the timeless wisdom of the Torah and modern-day living.

Discover the timeless wisdom of the Talmud in a welcoming and engaging weekly study group. Explore fascinating discussions, Jewish law, ethics, and insights into everyday life while gaining a deeper appreciation for the richness of Jewish learning. ​Whether you're new to Talmud study or have years of experience, you'll enjoy lively discussions, thought-provoking questions, and meaningful lessons in a warm, friendly atmosphere.

Lighting the Path is Jewish Family Services of WNY's annual appreciation event for our donors and supporters. The event will be held from 6pm-8pm on Thursday, December 3, 2026 and will feature a holiday market, food, drinks, program updates, and more! It will be a celebration and show of gratitude for the impact we were able to make together in 2026.

No experience necessary. This course is for beginners interested in learning the Hebrew alphabet, grammar, vocabulary and trope with a focus on reading prayers for Shabbat, synagogue services, and traditional blessings. • Thursdays 6:30–7:30 pm • 8 weeks: October 15 - December 10 • Cost: $180 • Instructor: Cantor Susan Lewis-Friedman CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Jewish Women Unscripted brings women 30ish to 55ish together for deep Jewish conversations, authentic connection, and shared exploration of life's joys and challenges. Through engaging discussion inspired by Jewish wisdom and values, we'll explore topics that matter most while building community and connection along the way. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

The Spirit of Shabbat (Zoom Only). Give yourself a spiritual Shabbat treat. Join Rabbi Greenberg for penetrating insight along with a delightful story. Zoom connection information: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2268494785?pwd=YVFLK0E5TzZGRUk5aUhsVWNzWXZ5Zz09 Meeting ID: 226 849 4785 Password: 613 (if prompted) or Call +1 929 205 6099

Interactive, age-appropriate guided Shabbat activites for children in grades 1-5.

A fun, interactive, age-appropriate program of Shabbat activities for children ages 0 - 5. All children must have a grown-up with them to attend this program.

Join us for an extraordinary evening of music and history celebrating the vibrant legacy of Jewish composers. This special event highlights two interconnected themes: the joyous, cozy sounds of the winter season and the surprising, foundational contributions of Jewish songwriters to iconic Christmas music and the modern holiday tradition. Concert Highlights  The performance takes audiences on a musical journey through the winter season while exploring the rich stories behind timeless holiday classics written by Jewish artists, including beloved hits like "White Christmas," "Silver Bells," and "Let It Snow!" Winter Celebration: Breathtaking arrangements honoring the warmth, reflection, and beauty of the winter months. Cultural Crossroad: A tribute to the Jewish songwriters and arrangers who helped shape the soundscape of American holiday celebrations. Live Performance: A dynamic mix of vocal and instrumental selections designed to inspire, educate, and delight listeners of all ages. Museum Exhibition Accompanying the concert is a museum-wide exhibition. Guests are invited to explore interactive displays, historical artifacts, sheet music, and art detailing how Jewish composers, performers, and creative pioneers helped build the modern holiday season and enrich global culture.