Scholar in Residence Weekend

Experience a weekend of inspiration, creativity, and meaning with Rabbi Jeffrey Sirkman, Temple Judea’s Scholar-in-Residence, as we explore Art in the Torah, a journey through text, emotion, and imagination. Rabbi Sirkman brings Torah to life with a unique blend of artistry and heart, revealing how its teachings guide us through moments of joy and challenge, love and loss, family and faith.

Temple Judea’s Scholar-in-Residence Weekend is made possible through the Baskin-Gordon Technion Memorial Lecture Endowment Fund.

Shabbat Service
Friday, November 14 | 6 PM

Begin the weekend with a moving Shabbat experience as Rabbi Jeffrey Sirkman shares his passion for Torah and art. Through his original cartoons and storytelling, Rabbi Sirkman invites us to see sacred text in a whole new way—illuminating how humor, emotion, and imagination bring Torah to life.

How Loss Leads Us Back to Life
Healing, Hope, and the Art of Living Again
Friday, November 14 | 7:30 PM

In this special session, Rabbi Sirkman guides us through a deeply moving conversation about navigating life’s transitions—from raising children to caring for aging parents—and discovering light and love even in moments of loss. Through text, reflection, and art, we’ll explore how faith and community help us return to joy and purpose.

This evening is open to the entire congregation and especially meaningful for adults in life’s “in-between” seasons.

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Parasha Havuah and Its Meanings for Today
Saturday, November 15
Minyan | 10:00 AM & Torah Study | 11:00 AM

Join Rabbi Sirkman for a morning of prayer and deep learning as we explore the weekly Torah portion through the lens of creativity and heart. The Minyan will offer time for reflection and song, followed by a lively Torah Study where we uncover how ancient wisdom continues to speak to modern life. Together, we will reflect on the beauty of interpretation—seeing Torah as both sacred text and living art that inspires compassion, purpose, and joy.

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Chayei Sarah: Brunch & Learn
Balancing Career, Family, and Jewish Values
Sunday, November 16 | 9:30–11:00 AM

Join us for a meaningful morning with Rabbi Sirkman as we explore the Torah portion Chayei Sarah and what it teaches us teaches us about building a home filled with faith, love, and lasting values.

Enjoy a light brunch and coffee while diving into conversation, community, and inspiration. Rabbi Sirkman will guide us through how Sarah’s story continues to shape our understanding of leadership, love, and legacy, both at home and in the world.

This program is ideal for parents of preschool and Religious School children, as well as anyone balancing family life and career.

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Rabbi Jeffrey Sirkman was ordained by Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in 1987. He received his B.A. in Religion with a concentration in Judaic Studies and a minor in Christianity and his M.A. in Theology, working under the guidance of Prof. Elie Wiesel at Boston University.  Arriving at Larchmont Temple some 37 years ago as Education Director/ Assistant Rabbi, he was instrumental in creating a vibrant and dynamic program for nursery through college-age children. As Senior Rabbi of Larchmont Temple since 1994, Rabbi Sirkman – in partnership with the spiritual leadership of the Temple – has helped to create a covenant of congregational life, fostering personal Jewish commitment on the part of every member/household through an ever-developing relationship with Torah (Jewish Study), Avodah (Spiritual Search), and Gemilut Hasadim (Deeds of Sacred Kindness).