Events

In a time when antisemitism is rising, and the world feels increasingly uncertain, how do we guard ourselves, our faith, and our communities — while still shining as a light for Hashem and Israel?

Join us for an immersive Young Adult Retreat focused on the powerful lessons of Nehemiah: leadership, courage, unity, and vigilance. Together, we will explore what it means to live out שמר (shamar) — to guard what Hashem has entrusted to us, spiritually and communally.


• All sessions hosted at our retreat hotel near Tysons Corner, VA

• Shabbat morning services with Ahavat Yeshua Messianic Synagogue

• A high-energy escape room experience designed to build teamwork and problem-solving

• Deep teaching, meaningful conversations, and real community connection

Early Bird Overnight Package: $230

  • Share room space 

  • 3 Nights at Hotel Stay

  • Friday night catered dinner

  • Metro card

  • All meals, except Sunday evening

Early Bird Commuter Package: $125

  • Friday night dinner

  • Saturday dinner

Register Today

Join friends from the NW region for a relaxing and enriching weekend. There is no charge for this event, though registration is required. If you would like to offset the costs you can do so by making a donation here.

Friday 

Optional Ma'ariv service and dinner at Beit Hashofar -- times are on BHS's website

Saturday

10am - 12pm Garden Walk at Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden

1-2pm Noshes at Beit Hashofar

2-2:30pm Mincha

2:30-5pm Rabbi Russ teaching

5-6pm Break/Social time

6-8:30pm Dinner at Beit Hashofar

Sunday

10am - 11:30am Weekday Shacharit

11:30am - 1:30pm Rabbi Russ teaching

1:30pm - 3:30pm Lunch at Beit Hashofar

Register for NW Regional

2026 Torah Cantillation Class with Cantor Jeanne Bradshaw


Are you a lover of Jewish prayer, liturgy, and communal worship? Are you a volunteer cantor? Worship leader? Would you like to grow in this area and learn from others who share your passion?

We want to serve and strengthen you! 

The goal of the UMJC Lay Cantor Training Series is to equip lay leaders with deeper knowledge of the background and history of traditional Jewish prayer, plus tools to lead your congregation in prayer with excellence and understanding. 

In this class students will learn the melodies, the different cantillation marks, how each one is sung, what they mean, and how to utilize them to chant Torah. Chanting Torah is so much more than singing. Chanting helps to express the meaning of the text with its pauses and connectors. Join this class to learn more about this wonderful legacy and be able to share your new abilities with your congregation.

Ability to read/sound out Hebrew words is necessary for success in this class.

Class meets via Zoom for live instruction and coaching. Class sessions are once a week (adjusted for holidays) on Sundays 7:00 - 8:30 PM Eastern Time. Students who attend class sessions and actively participate will receive a certificate from the UMJC upon course completion. 

Cost: $275.00

Registration is limited to ensure high-quality instruction and attention to each student. Register now before the class fills up! 

Register Today