Explore Mussar — the ancient/modern Jewish system for personal growth — in the supportive environment of your peers. Are you interested in becoming a better person? Perhaps more patient? Or more compassionate? Or having more gratitude? The list could go on…. Each of us has a “spiritual curriculum” – areas we need to work on. The Mussar tradition offers a Jewish path and methodology for identifying and working on that personal curriculum. This work is best done by working with a partner — your chevruta — in the context of a group, called a va’ad. It entails courage, openness, and discipline. But mostly, it requires awareness or mindfulness and clear intention. Be prepared to change.

This group will meet roughly every two weeks for eight 90-minute sessions (dates below). Between sessions, you will be expected to do reading (usually 10-15 pages), some journaling (to be specified), and work with a “focus phrase.” You will also be expected to meet at least once between sessions with your chevruta (by phone or online is fine). Chevruta partners will be arranged by the end of the first session.

Dates: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays from mid-November through early March. Specific dates are as follows: 11/19/25, 12/03/25, 12/17/25, 1/07/26. 1/21/26, 2/4/26, 2/18/26, and 3/4/26)

Instructors: Dan Fendel and Lynn Simon

Text: Everyday Holiness, by Alan Morinis

Applications Due: Thursday, Oct 16

Notification: Monday, October 20

Please apply using the form below. In reviewing applications, we will attempt to create a gender balance as well an age spread.