Summer 2023

The summer season is the apex of Knesset Israel's annual program calendar. Year-round denizens of the Berkshires mingle with snowbirds, seasonal residents, and first-time visitors to create a vibrant and engaging experience. 

Knesset Israel is offering a full range of programming this summer, indoors, outdoors and online. We look forward to welcoming old friends and new faces.

Highlights this summer include:

Services & Meals

• In-Person services every weekend - Friday night, Saturday morning, Sunday morning, plus Tisha B'av and Selihot. Friday night services will be ba'ohel, weather permitting, while other services will be in the sanctuary & livestreamed.
• Kiddush luncheon every Shabbat from July 8 through the end of August.
• Three Communal Shabbat Dinners after Kabbalat Shabbat services - June 30, July 21, August 11. Dinner requires advance registration.
• Zoom Davening - Tuesday and Thursday evenings (click on calendar for ID)

Cultural & Social Programs

• The Berkshire Jewish Film Festival - fascinating films - every Monday afternoon & evening from July 10 to August 14. 
• A Klezmer Concert on Monday night, August 21. Click for more information and to register.
• Ramblin' with the Rav - Hikes of varying difficulty led by Rabbi Weiner - exercise, community, and a little Torah in the glorious Berkshires. Some Wednesdays, some Sundays. Click for more information and to register.

Adult Education

• A Weekend with Ruth Messinger - The Berkshires synagogues have collaborated to bring Ruth Messinger to the county for shabbat, August 18-20. She will be spending shabbat morning at Knesset Israel, giving the D'var Torah and teaching after lunch.
• JTS in the Berkshires - Top-notch scholars from the Jewish Theological Seminary deliver classes on Friday mornings at the Bernstein Theater at Shakespeare & Co. in Lenox. This year: Professors Arnie Eisen (July 7), Gordon Tucker (July 21), & Shira Billet (August 4)!
• Lunch & Learns with Rabbi Michael Strassfeld on Saturday, July 15 and Rabbi Marc Margolius on Saturday, August 12.