The High Holy Days are right around the corner — and so is Stephen Wise Free Synagogue!
If you’re seeking a community to become a part of this new year, this Upper West Side Reform synagogue, located at 68th street between Columbus and Central Park West, is opening its arms to new members.
“Stephen Wise Free Synagogue is so much more than a place,” said Isaiah Benedek, director of membership engagement. “It’s a community that comes together — through smachot and trying times — to learn and educate the next generation; that worships as one, wherever we might be; and that cares for each other and the greater world.”
Stephen Wise nurtures Jewish community and education for ALL ages — beginning as early as 3 months old.
Their Reggio Emilia-inspired Early Childhood Center (ECC) views children as capable, strong, and rich with wonder and knowledge and provides a play-based environment for children to grow into creative thinkers and problem solvers. “Here, students help guide the curriculum,” explained ECC Director Miriam Kalmar.
“Not only did my children have a great preschool experience, but they were fully prepared for Kindergarten,” said a happy Stephen Wise mom. “And I made lifelong friends and found a truly wonderful community.”
For children ages five to 18, the Religious School helps students build their Jewish identities in a comfortable setting, while forming lifelong friendships and connections to the synagogue and wider community.
“It takes a village,” said Director of Congregational Learning Rabbi Dalia Samansky. “If we do our job right, we’re helping you to raise the mensch you’re trying to raise.”
“I loved being here when I was younger — singing and having t’filah — and now I come during the High Holidays and still know all the songs,” reflected a nostalgic Stephen Wise Religious School alumna.
Jewish community isn’t just for the kids. There are endless opportunities for adults to connect through a myriad of cultural, educational and social programming.
They’ve got afternoon mahjong games open to all skill levels; adult study sessions and book groups; an Adult B’nai Mitzvah program; religious action initiatives addressing issues like antisemitism, food insecurity and immigrant rights; an Emergency Food program; concerts and musical events; missions to Israel; Shabbat family experiences filled with age-appropriate activities; and a whole host of exciting annual events which take place both onsite and at neighboring UWS institutions.
“Everyone engages with their Judaism in a different way,” said Benedek. “At Stephen Wise, there’s something for everyone.”
To learn more, please visit swfs.org or contact Stephen Wise’s director of member engagement, Isaiah Benedek, at (212) 877-4050, ext. 223, or ibenedek@swfs.org.
