The idea for a Lunch and Learn program was an initiative inspired by the shuttering of our synagogue in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. The organizers of the program were concerned about helping members maintain a connection to the shul and each other while the doors were locked and everyone was sheltered in place at home. Enter Lunch and Learn.

Every Monday,  Lunch and Learners zoom in (via Zoom, a videoconferencing antidote to the shelter-in-place restrictions) for sessions led mostly by our members. July offerings included a sailing trip with Dan and Nancy Torchio aboard the Rhapsody, the straight talk about Covid-19 from eminent surgeon Lewis Teperman, MD, insights on picture-taking in the digital age from Ellen Jaffe, a professional photographer; and a fascinating trip backstage at the United Nations led by Francis Dubois.

Each Thursday, Rabbi Gadi fills the noontime slot with probing questions about Judaism, often a follow-up to the theme of the Monday program. We learned about Judaic laws that govern boating, God’s perspective on Covid, and a Biblical ban on idols and images.

What have we cooked up for August? Zoom at noon every Monday and Thursday at noon, and find out. You’ll discover that our shul members are pretty talented and interesting folks, willing to share ideas and expertise with viewers. There’s always discussion, Q&A, and chitchat. It’s instructive, it’s entertaining, it’s fun.

To Zoom at noon for Lunch and Learn, visit www.tiferethisraelgreenport.org, click on “Go to meeting/services,” follow the prompts, and enter code 955110. Come learn. Bring lunch.