9.00-10.00am      10.15-11.15am      11.30am-12.30pm      12.45-1.45pm      2.00-3.00pm      3.15-4.15pm      4.30-5.30pm      5.45-6.45pm 

Monday 10.15 - 11.15am

"But it's only marijuana" - A Parent's Nightmare
Raphael Aron

Drug and alcohol abuse by our youth and young adults remains a serious threat to individuals and families. Marijuana, ecstasy and alcohol as well as minor tranquilizers have become part of the staple diet for party goers often at great risk to themselves and their future. This presentation addresses possible solutions and approaches to the addiction issues with particular emphasis on the role of the family. Citing personal and poignant experiences from working in this field for over 25 years, Raphael addresses parents, teachers and community leaders who seek an appropriate response to this issue. Raphael is the author of "Believe - From Addiction to Redemption" (Fontaine 2009)

The Spirit of Kashrut: The Case for Jewish Vegetarianism
Benji Holzman

In Judaism, we are exhorted to observe ts'ar ba'alei chayim - prevention of cruelty to animals, yet chicken soup is referred to as Jewish medicine. What's going on? In this session we'll explore the case for Jewish vegetarianism as fundamental to Kashrut observance in the 21st century, using both biblical sources and the writings of contemporary thinkers such as Rav Kook and Rabbi David Rosen. We'll also look into vegetarianism as a philosophical protest against the Shoah.

Cows and bees rather than milk and honey: a new approach to the teaching of Israel in the Jewish day school
Ronnen Grauman

After participating in a programme of study in Israel, Marilyn and Ronnen created a new curriculum for the teaching of Israel. In 2007 Modern Israel Studies weas introduced as a one unit, compulsory Year 11 subject at Moriah College. The approach is to look at Israel in a realistic way, warts and all. All perspectives are presented. In this session, they will discuss the rationale and goals of this course, present an outline of the topics and conduct a sample lesson.

A Sacred Prayer in Motion - Kabbalah Tai Chi
Gad Levy, Orna Triguboff

This sacred practice is an original concept, a celebration of synchronicity between ancient mystical Jewish concepts such as the Kabbalistic mapping of the 10 Divine energy channels in the body, called in Hebrew Sefirot, with the Traditional Chinese Medical mapping of energy centers and enery channels in the body, named Dan Tiens and meridians. We've created a workout that combines Tai Chi and Qigong energy flow with meditation in motion, chanting, blessing and expressing gratitude. Through our practice of Kabbalah concepts and Tai Chi we promote harmony through a spiritual Jewish interconnection to the Almighty.

Women of the Tanach: Sibling Rivalry: Miriam and Tsippora
Amanda Gordon, Peta Jones Pellach

Two women vied for favour with Moshe - sisters-in-law from totally different backgrounds. Miriam was a hero of the Jewish people, even from her childhood. Tsippora, a newcomer to the family and tribe, was equally forthright and strong. Meet these remarkable yet very 'human' women, through the text and through the interpretation of two real sisters, who re-enact the rivalry and reconciliation.

Jewish rituals as spiritual practice, making the connection
Fruma Schapiro

This session will provide a fascinating and deep insight into the relevance of ancient rituals in our daily lives, in a modern world. Through the lens of kaballah, we will glean a perspective on the spiritual and practical impact that ritualistic judaism has to offer us, and how we can connect both worlds in a meaningful way.

Celebrating Batmitzvah in 2009
Shelley Einfeld, Jacquie Seeman Charak

What is batmitzvah? How can it be celebrated in an Orthodox environment? In this workshop, we explore texts ranging from the Talmud to contemporary scholars to explore the meaning of this major life event. We draw on experiences overseas and in the Sydney community to help illustrate the different options available.

Intermarriage: Is it Good or Bad for the Community?
Yvonne Haber, Kirsten Shteinman, David Klahr, Justin Moddel

This is a panel discussion on the affects of intermarriage on the community - both positive and negative aspects.

Israel Update: what's going on?
Eli Yerushalmi

An update on recent events in Israel.

The mystery of the Jewish calendar
Rachel Elior

TBC

Australia - the future of interfaith dialogue?
Jeremy Jones

If it's Hebrew is it Jewish?
Erez Safar, Y-Love

A close look at HaDag Nachash, Idan Raichel, and other Israeli artists and how the fit into the "Jewish music" genre.