Monday, May 4, 2026 | 17 of Iyar, 5786

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To see the full schedule of WLCJ events and programs, visit our calendar.

JUST ANNOUNCED: Dvar Torah Guest - Rabbi Chaya Rowen Baker, Dean of the Schechter Rabbinical Seminary

Ordained in 2007 by the Schechter Rabbinical Seminary, Rabbi Rowen Baker served as the Rabbi of Kehillat Ramot-Zion in French Hill, Jerusalem, for 16 years and headed the practical rabbinics training at SRS for 7 years. Rabbi Rowen Baker’s efforts to strengthen in Israel a vibrant and inclusive Jewish approach and practice focused on the synagogue space and on the public sphere are now invested in training skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate rabbis for Israeli society.

She is a former Rikma Fellow, Tannenbaum Fellow and Honey Foundation Fellow, and was the first Masorti Rabbi—and the first female Israeli Rabbi—ever to be invited to teach Torah at the Israeli President’s residence.

TORAH FUND STANDS WITH ISRAEL: THE CURRENT DYNAMICS AND THE ROLE OF THE JEWISH STATE

Wed | May 6 | 7:30 pm ET | Online

How can a single consulate bridge the gap between Israel and the diaspora during these complex times? Join us for a critical educational forum featuring Tsach Saar, Deputy Consul General of Israel in New York and Rabbi Chaya Rowen Baker,  Dean of the Schechter Rabbinical Seminary. Gain firsthand insight into the current dynamics of our Jewish State and explore the consulate's pivotal role in fostering vital community relationships. This virtual session also includes a special D'var Torah and a deep dive into the diplomatic efforts shaping our future.

She holds a BA from the Hebrew University in Jewish History and Archaeology, and an MA, magna cum laude, from the Schechter Institute in Jewish studies.  

Rabbi Rowen Baker lives in French Hill, Jerusalem with her husband Etai, and their four children.

TOTAL ACCEPTANCE AND KINDNESS DEFINE WLCJ

What defines the Women’s League experience? For Elaine B. Smith, it comes down to two essential pillars: total acceptance and kindness. Discover the profound impact of finding a space where every woman is welcomed and valued, and how these principles continue to strengthen the bonds of our global sisterhood.

OUR PLANET: PROTECT, SAVE–KEEP IT BEAUTIFUL!

Missed the live session? Catch the recording of our Earth Day panel featuring Nobel Peace Prize nominee Yosef Abramowitz and Jewish Farmer Network Director Shani Mink. Dive into a deep dive on solar energy breakthroughs and sustainable agriculture. Get the factual insights and actionable steps you need to contribute to a greener tomorrow.

THE REVOLUTIONARY AND FOUNDING PERIOD

As we celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month and look ahead to America 250, the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations continues its inspiring initiative to highlight the rich history and enduring contributions of Jewish Americans. This week, they explore the Revolutionary and Founding Period (1776-1825). From key patriots like Francis Salvador, the first Jewish person to hold public office in America, and Haym Salomon, who crucially financed the Revolutionary War, to trailblazing women like Abigail Minis and Rebecca Gratz, who supplied rebel troops and pioneered the modern Jewish Sunday school respectively, the stories of these individuals highlight the vital role Jewish Americans played in the fight for independence and the founding of the nation.

COMFORT CASES

No child's suitcase should be a trash bag. Join us in supporting Comfort Cases. Help us bring dignity to youth entering foster care by replacing trash bags with backpacks filled with pajamas, fresh toiletries, and comforting blankets.

There is a critical need for teen items! Teenagers are often the most underserved group in the foster system. Your donations of adult-sized pajamas, full-size hygiene products, and journals will make a massive difference to an older child navigating a difficult transition.

WLCJ SHABBATON & CONVENTION 2026

Friday–Wednesday, July 10–15, 2026

Registration is now open!

Take advantage of our $1,150 Early-Bird special through May 14, 2026! Regular registration is $1,295 beginning May 15.

Hotel room rates are guaranteed through June 7, 2026, so be sure to make your reservations early.

Click here to register and learn more. We look forward to seeing you there!

GET YOUR VIRTUAL JOURNAL AD TODAY

Whether you want to honor a trailblazing President, past or present, celebrate a major Sisterhood Affiliate milestone, or simply share a heartfelt message of gratitude, a virtual ad ensures your tribute will be seen and celebrated by attendees far and wide.

TURNING SISTERHOOD GOALS INTO ACTION

Thurs | May 7 | 7:30 pm ET | Online

Is your sisterhood ready to move from planning to performing? Join us for our next Toolbox Talks session featuring Past International President Carol Simon, where she will break down how to bridge the gap between holding a title and truly leading. Whether you’re looking for real solutions to leadership challenges or want to turn big ideas into meaningful accomplishments, this dynamic session is for you.

DRESS AS YOUR BEST SELF!

Thurs | May 28 | 12:00 pm ET | Online

In preparation for Convention, join us for an exclusive webinar on mastering your Convention wardrobe. Learn from travel expert Alexandra Jimenez (Travel Fashion Girl) on how to "Dress as Your Best Self," and get creative tips from WLCJ Creative Judaic Arts Chairperson Jody Glass on perfecting your look for our "Midnight at the Masquerade" gala. From capsule wardrobes to masquerade masks, we’ve got you covered.

STRATEGIES FOR PROGRAM SUCCESS

Thurs | May 28 | 7:30 pm ET | Online

Ready to add some serious zest and zing to your sisterhood events? Join Kehilah-Education for an energizing workshop dedicated entirely to strategic programming and fresh ideas. You'll learn proven best practices directly from Region Vice Presidents Gilda Schwartz, Rona Walters, and Susan Winter. Additionally, WLCJ Vice President Anise Parnes will show you exactly how to unlock available program materials on the WLCJ website. 

Click the image to read the latest Chadashot.

Click the image to read Torah Fund’s message about the Creating New Spaces campaign!

Does your Region/Sisterhood Affiliate have any upcoming programs that are virtual or hybrid? If so, please send the details to info@wlcj.org so we can include them in a future edition of WL Week.

UPCOMING REGION EVENTS:

Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday | Online

12 noon ET, 9am PT, 10am MT, and 11am CT

A virtual service for our WLCJ Sisters to recite Mishaberach (the Prayer for Healing) and Psalms, and study Kaddish.

Zoom link can be found in WL Week. Please email info@wlcj.org if you are not in our mailing list.

Parashat Behar-Bechukotai

What lessons can be learned from the obligation to allow not just ourselves to rest, but also our planet? Rabbi Margie Cella reminds us who the earth truly belongs to, inspiring us to practice environmental renewal and sustainability. She also explores how the double parashah inspires not only the betterment of our natural environment, but also the cognizance to treat others with the same dignity and respect that we are to afford nature.

Order the official WLCJ 5786 Calendar Diary here (for mail-in orders, use this link).

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