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With the High Holy Days approaching, Upper West Siders seeking a year-round Jewish community are invited to explore membership at Stephen Wise Free Synagogue, a historic Reform congregation on West 68th Street between Columbus Avenue and Central Park West.
“Stephen Wise Free Synagogue is so much more than a place,” said Isaiah Benedek, the synagogue’s director of membership engagement. “It’s a community that comes together — through s’machot 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.”
That Jewish journey can begin as early as three months old — at Stephen Wise’s Reggio Emilia-inspired Early Childhood Center (ECC). “Here, children are valued as capable and competent members of the community,” said ECC director Miriam Kalmar. “We work in partnership with parents to provide a strong foundation for Jewish identity and a love of learning, while fostering a strong sense of caring for others.”
“Not only did my children have a great preschool experience, but they were fully prepared for kindergarten,” said one Stephen Wise parent. “And I made lifelong friends and found a truly wonderful community.”
For children and teens ages five through 18, Stephen Wise’s Religious School offers joyful, hands-on Jewish education. “If we do our job right, we’re helping you to raise the mensch you’re trying to raise,” said Rabbi Dalia Samansky, director of congregational learning.
Religious School students explore Jewish traditions and texts, learn Hebrew and prayer, deepen their connection to Israel and prepare for b’nai mitzvah — all while forming lifelong friendships. These connections extend into the Teen Program, where participants serve as teaching assistants, develop leadership skills and travel together around the world.
“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,” said one Religious School alumna.
And Jewish community isn’t just for the kids. Adults can participate in synagogue life through a myriad of cultural, educational and social programming.
Just a sampling of the opportunities includes adult study sessions and book groups; an Adult B’nai Mitzvah program; concerts and musical events; missions to Israel; and a host of exciting annual events held both onsite and at neighboring Upper West Side institutions. There are also opportunities to join social action initiatives addressing issues like antisemitism and immigrant rights, or volunteer with the Emergency Food program serving New Yorkers in need.
“Everyone engages with their Judaism in a different way,” Benedek said. “At Stephen Wise, there’s something for everyone.”
To learn more about membership at Stephen Wise, visit swfs.org or contact Stephen Wise’s director of member engagement, Isaiah Benedek, at (212) 877-4050, ext. 223, or ibenedek@swfs.org.
