The El Paso Jewish Federation continues to provide unique Jewish learning opportunities in areas not offered by other community institutions.  This responsibility falls to the Federation’s Office of Informal Jewish Experiences.

The IJE does not offer traditional courses or traditional formats.  Some classes are offered only once and some meet regularly.  For example, we were able to present  Pikuach Nefesh-CPR and Lifesaving and a new  seven part series for advanced  Jewish learning called Beyond the Basics.  This well-attended program attracted people from diverse backgrounds and interests who came together to study texts, theology, Israel, understanding Hebrew prayers, and other topics. 

Under IJE our community had the unusual opportunity to hear an update on Islam and Israel from Dr. Khaleel Mohammed and a nationally known Jewish murder mystery author, Rochelle Krich.  Over forty people participated in the Gary Rosenthal Hiddur Mitzvah project where they were given the opportunity to personally design the glass ornamentation on objects like dreydels, chanukiot and tzedakah boxes.

Other spectacular on-going programs to which we point with pride are:

Jewish Film Festival  Three film late summer spectacular
Art House Film Series  February of each year
Live from NY  World-class speakers through interactive satellite feed
PJ Library  Engaging young families through Jewish books
Special Crossroads Concert  Cross-cultural Jewish Music   

If there is a program you would like to see happen, run to your phone and call 584-4437 ext 14 and offer to lend a hand.