Time Slot Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Lunch Session 4 Session 5 Session 6 Later

Room 10:00 - 11:00 11:10 - 12:10 12:20 - 13:20 13:20 - 14:20 14:20 - 15:20 15:30 - 16:30 16:40 - 17:40 17:40-18:20

Christian and Jews: The untold story of 's Evidence, Faith, Religion and the Scientific Room 1 Fascination with ‟s Negev – The rebirth of Zionism Darwin, Hawking, Dawkins - A Jewish Reponse Method What loving Israel means History/Religion Israel Religion vs. Science Faith/Cont.issues Discussion David Ariel Raymond Dwek Eli Lejeune Adam Squires Hannah Weisfeld

An Oxford Mystery-the City‟s Hidden Jewish The Israel Defence Forces: Military Cultural Room 2 An old linen bag of letters History A short history of Israeli rock music Narratives In the middle of nowhere? History History/Community Israel/Music Israel/Cont. issues Text/Religion/Faith Jonathan Wittenberg Evie Kemp Nick Gendler Ofer Fridman Clive Lawton

CHAVRUTA: Tweet Me Some Torah: Madame Rosa – another Tall Story by Romain The Arab-Israeli Conflict. Are we getting both Malaria in Palestine 100 years ago and its current The Jewish Settlement in Palestine During the Room 3 A river runs through it Gary sides of the story? overlooked or forgotten lesson to the world First World War Text/Religion/Faith Literature Israel/Cont. issues Israel/history Israel/History Zvi Solomons, Hadassa Davis Judi Lyons Nomi Ben Ari Anton Alexander Glenda Abramson

Vienna and the Jews – The making of the In conversation with the Serpent – Analysing the A Hitch-hiker‟s guide to the Jewish Year: Jewish Israel and Esau: The common origin of Reform Room 4 Deciphering the Red Heifer twentieth century Dialogue of Creation Festivals and the meaning of Life and Chasidic Judaism Religion/History History Text/Religion/Faith Text/Religion/Faith Religion/History Gary Fellman John Dunston Laurence Lyons Shira Solomons Gary Fellman

Israel‟s treatment of African Asylum Seekers: Room 5 Legal Aspects The Emerging Self - Isaac and Joseph Jewish humour through limericks and haikus The Jewish Diet and Disease Prevention There are Still Jews in Ethiopia Israel/Cont. issues Text/Psychology Arts/Recreation Contemporary issues Contemporary issues Ruvi Ziegler Gloria Goldman Jeremy Ison Hilda Glickman Sybil Sheridan

One of the most important Jewish Should the current Chief be the last Chief The Other – How should Jews relate to those who How to crochet a kippa and how to tie your own Room 6 Commandments Moses‟ Other Wife A Jewish view of Christianity Rabbi ? are not of our Faith? tallit Community Text/Religion/Faith Text/Religion/Faith Text/Religion/Faith Religion/Community Religion/Recreation Carolyn Addleman Sybil Sheridan Jonathan Romain Zvi Solomons Hila Bram

Laugh for No Reason 13:40 - 15:20 Israeli Dancing 2 Room 7 Living Life Regardless of Circumstances (Laughter Yoga) Israeli Dancing To Be Or Not To Be Journeys into Judaism (Outdoors if weather permits) Film (99 min) Contemporary issues Recreation Recreation Faith/Cont. Issues Recreation Julian Fraser Stephen Ison Naomi Sassoon Danny Allen, Maya, Ellen, Gregg Naomi Sassoon

“I am What I Wear” - "But I'm in love!" - an Orthodox approach to Painting on Silk 16:40 - 18:20 Room 8 Art workshop interfaith relationships Traditional Jewish Papercuts (Up to 15 participants) Drawing with words – the art of Micrography To Be Or Not To Be Film (99 min) Religious/Creative workshop Religion/Community Creative workshop Creative workshop Arts/Text Caroline Ingram, Neomi Luz Zvi Solomons Sarah Montagu Rosalie and Eli Lejeune Helena Miller

To what extent should Diaspora Jews be involved Is being a Descendent of a Shoah Survivor or Sing-A-Gogue! New songs, rounds and chants Woven threads and torn fabric - Yosef and in Israel‟s affairs? Drama Studio Refugee a problem for you? What Should The Modern Jew Believe? (singing workshop) Zulaikha - Bible based Storytelling Defected Terrorist, Defected Politician Tells All (In dining room) History/Cont. issues Faith/Cont. issues Religion/Music Storytelling Performance Israel/Cont. issues Israel/Cont. issues Teresa Howard Alexander Massey Adele Moss, Jumana Moon Sami Hussein Panel/chair: Clive Lawton

Reception / Shuk

Young

s Session One Session Two Session Three 10:00 - 11:00 11:10 - 12:10 12:20 - 13:20

Christian and Jews: The untold story of England's Fascination Israel’s Negev – The rebirth of Zionism Darwin, Hawking, Dawkins - A Jewish Reponse with Judaism David Ariel Raymond Dwek Eli Lejeune Religion/History Room 1 Israel Room 1 Text/Religion/Faith Room 1 The session will explore the paradox of Christian Hebraists in England - who were Ben Gurion University has campuses at Beer Sheva, Sde Boquer and Eilat. The Lecture Devoted to brief description of the creation of the universe and the evolution of fascinated by Judaism, but were contemptous of Jews university was established to serve the needs of the Negev. The positive outreach the species according to the latest finding of science and how they compare with - who preserved the European Jewish legacy in the manuscripts collection of the programmes of the students, the science base and the important water researches are Jewish belief. Discussion on topics: "Evidence for Religion" and "TIKKUN OLAM". . inspirational.

An old linen bag of letters An Oxford Mystery-the City’s Hidden Jewish History A short history of Israeli rock music

Jonathan Wittenberg Evie Kemp Nick Gendler History Room 2 History/Community Room 2 Arts/Music/Israel Room 2 In a discarded trunk I found a bag of letters between my great-grandmother and her six Who was Mildegod and what was her connection with a peacock? How did Deadman‟s It‟s not only Milk and Honey, Dana International and “Push the Button”. Israeli popular children, dating from 1938-1948. They document their diverse fates in personal detail: Walk get its name? Which Jew set up a coffee house 320 years before Starbucks? music has a unique sound and character. A meeting of European and Mizrachi styles, Palestine, Theresienstadt, Treblinka, New York. I will read a selection and put them in What was the amazing story of the Corpus Christi siddur? Where can you find a reflecting the country‟s history, psychology and sociology. Come and hear the story close historical context. reference to Pesach in the Ashmolean Museum? Find out the answers to these and from the songs of the Land of Israel to heavy metal and hip hop. much more in this fun overview of Oxford Jewish heritage from medieval times to the modern day.

Tweet me some Torah: A River runs through it Madame Rosa – another Tall Story by Romain Gary The Arab-Israeli Conflict. Are we getting both sides of the story? Zvi Solomons, Hadassah Davis Judi Lyons Nomi Ben Ari Text/Religion/Faith Room 3 Arts and Literature Room 3 Israel/Contemporary Issues Room 3 Text study as you‟ve never experience it. Chavruta (learning in pairs) is one of Romain Gary was born in Vilnius in 1914, moved to Paris at 14, joined the Free Using many photos and quotations, we will discuss together whether reporters should Limmud's great traditions. Join other Limmud-niks to discuss, debate and take part in French in 1940, was part of the French diplomatic corps and later in Los Angeles report only what they see or are told, or whether it is acceptable also to comment; the great dialogue of the Jewish people. Our special Thames Valley Limmud learning became the French “ambassador” to Hollywood. He wrote under both his own name whether so-called eye witnesses are reliable; staged events, incorrect captions, and booklets and our facilitators will guide you as we float downsteam, and you can share and a pseudonym (AJAR). Amongst his early works are the “European Education” and many more issues. Finally we will consider what we, the public, can do to ensure we your ideas with everyone on our #Twitter feed, if you tweet. “Madame Rosa” (la vie devant soi), which was later turned into a movie. In this are reliably informed, and how to disseminate facts when the media has failed to do so. session, I will show some clips from the film, as well as talk about this man‟s life and times.

Deciphering the Red Heifer Vienna and the Jews – The making of the twentieth century In conversation with the Serpent – Analysing the Dialogue of Creation Gary Fellman John Dunston Laurence Lyons Religion/History Room 4 History Room 4 Text/Religion/Faith Room 4 Jewish tradition considers the precept of the Red Heifer as unfathomable, its true Vienna at the turn of the 20th century was a melting pot as the Habsburg Empire Genesis describes the foundation of mankind yet the Torah text is difficult to meaning and significance beyond our reach. However our tradition obligates us to ended and the modern world exploded. And the Jews were right at the heart of it. This comprehend beyond the popular fairy-tale myth. As Maimonides remarks, a superficial comprehend all of the commandments to the best of our abilities. Therefore join the illustrated lecture explores why that was, and asks a few “What if‟s...” reading of the text tends to lead the reader astray. Following his previous Limmud presenter in a trip back in time to the origin of the sacrificial cult and, though an session Did Adam and Eve sin? this interactive session explores the conversations analysis of the textual evidence, unravel the hidden symbols and history of the Red which took place in the garden and offers some interesting and novel insights. Heifer.

Israel’s treatment of African Asylum Seekers: Legal Aspects The Emerging Self - Isaac and Joseph Jewish humour through limericks and haikus

Ruvi Ziegler Gloria Goldman Jeremy Ison Israel and contemporary issues Room 5 Text/Religion Room 5 Arts/Music/Recreation Room 5 The session offers legal perspectives on the (mis)handling of African asylum seekers How does Carl Jung‟s theory of Individuation inform our understanding of the Jeremy will read from his book of Jewish limericks, which Jackie Mason (noch) has in Israel, over sixty years after the Refugee Convention which Israel was instrumental developing personalities of Isaac and Jacob in the Book of Genesis? called "entertaining". The audience will compare and contrast the Jewish limerick and in drafting. The session critiques the absence of a sound asylum system, analysing the Jewish haiku and, pooling their creative powers, will produce their own verses as a legislation, government policies, and public rhetoric. Limmud souvenir.

One of the most important Jewish Commandments Moses’ Other Wife A Jewish view of Christianity

Carolyn Addleman Sybil Sheridan Jonathan Romain Community Room 6 Text/Religion/Faith Room 6 Text/Religion/Faith Room 6 Prepare to be changed. Welcome to an interactive session that will increase your Miriam and Aaron are angry with Moses because he married a „Cushi‟, but everyone So what do we really think about Christianity? Is it monotheism or a form of higher understanding and empower you to make a difference to the future of the Jewish knows he was married to Zipporah. Was there a divorce? Was there an elopement? paganism? How do we approach the Gospels or the claims made about Jesus or the Community Stories tell of Moses‟ 40 years in Ethiopia. How he got there, what he did there and claims made about Jews? The talk will steer a fine line between being respectfully P.C. who this mysterious woman was, will be the subject of this talk; accompanied by and brutally honest. pictures of the places he may have been and the sights he may have seen.

Living Life Regardless of Circumstances Laugh for No Reason (Laughter Yoga) Israeli dancing (for beginners)

Julian Fraser Stephen Ison Naomi Sassoon Contemporary issues Room 7 Recreation Room 7 Recreation and Israel Room 7 Most of us perceive that our experience of life comes from the world around us and the An exhilarating and fun exercise for adults of all ages. The history and benefits are Come and experience a session where Israeli culture and dance intertwined to circumstances we are faced with. This can lead to bad feelings and difficult briefly explained, then laughter exercises are demonstrated and enjoyed. Benefits are enhance our connection with Isarel. A mixture of old, new, circle, line and partner relationships when circumstances don‟t go our way. This workshop will give you an stress reduction, promoting a sense of well being, strengthening the immune system dances. This will be a fun, lively session, so get your dancing feet on and enjoy !! understanding of the principles that explain how our thinking creates our reality and and releasing endorphins. You need to be willing to have fun. There will be chairs in that our experience of life is not externally generated. This understanding has the the room but those able to participate fully will be walking around and doing mild potential to make huge difference to your life. stretching excises.

“I am What I Wear” - art workshop for adults "But I'm in love!" - an Orthodox approach to interfaith Traditional Jewish Papercuts relationships. Caroline Ingram, Neomi Luz Zvi Solomons Sarah Montagu Arts\Religion Room 8 Religion/Community Room 8 Arts/Recreation Room 8 How would you describe your Jewish identity? Choose from a plethora of fabrics and Not everyone Jewish is able to find love with a Jewish partner. In this session we A practical session looking at traditional techniques in papercutting and a chance to yarns to contribute your thoughts discuss our own experiences and view them through the lens of the Orthodox produce your own original artwork using the tecchniques shown and feelings in the making of a giant Arba Kanfot installation which will form the exit mainstream. You may be surprised as some of your preconceptions are challenged. from Limmud at the end of the day. Open to all. No textiles experience required.

Is being a Descendent of a Shoah Survivor or Refugee a What Should The Modern Jew Believe? Sing-A-Gogue! New songs, rounds and chants for synagogue problem for you? (singing workshop) Teresa Howard Norman Solomon Alexander Massey History/Contemporary Issues Drama Studio Faith and Contemporary issues Drama Studio Music and religion Drama Studio In Jewish circles, any discussion about the long-term legacy of the Shoah for Taking themes from my recent book TORAH FROM HEAVEN I shall ask how modern Come and sing some new tunes to old (and some new) texts – songs that are filtering subsequent generations is always lively and tends to centre on whether it is more science, archaeology and changing moral perspectives challenge our traditional belief into communities in the UK, USA, Germany and Australia. Alexander (the composer) constructive to „dwell on the past‟ or to „focus on the future‟. Perhaps there is a third system, and what the response should be. is a singing teacher and choir leader. Songs include Shabbat texts, psalms, blessings, way that connects the richness of the past to the present. Teresa will introduce the and prayers. We‟ll also discover and explore the stories and teachings behind them. session with a Shabbat story and then open for responses from the assembled group. There are voice parts for most ability levels - suitable for late teenage upwards. The intention is to provide a context where new connections can be made between past and present. Session Four Session Five Session Six 14:20 - 15:20 15:30 - 16:30 16:40 - 17:40

Evidence, Faith, Religion and the Scientific Method What loving Israel means How to crochet a kippa and how to tie your own tallit

Adam Squires Hannah Weisfeld Hila Bram Faith and cotemporary issues Room 1 Israel/Community Room 1 Recreation/Religion Room 6 Can we reconcile Science and Religion? Adam will probably fail to tackle this For a long time, diaspora Jewry's role has been to support Israel financially and Always wanted to make a kippa or create your own tallit ? In this session you fundamental question in the course of his session. However, he will make the case politically. A new generation are increasingly saying they want more: they want a say in can learn how to do both or either– you can start them and finish at home or collect that for Science, the important point is not its specific theories, but its approach; not the direction of Jewish destiny and the future of the Jewish homeland. Yachad's ideas for how to make your own another time. Learn how to tie tzitzit – and the what it currently believes, but its capacity for modifying this belief. This lecture / purpose is to harness that energy and work towards a vision of Israel that is both principles behind crocheting a kippa with a pattern or even with your name. Materials discussion will cover the Big Bang, Evolution, Intelligent Design, Relativity and various secure and at peace with her neighbours. Come and share your views and find out provided for a small fee, or bring along your own. Beginners and those with some other topics in science, religion and spirituality. more. experience both welcome

The Israel Defence Forces: Military Cultural Narratives In the middle of nowhere? Israeli dancing 2 (Outdoors if weather permits)

Ofer Fridman Clive Lawton Naomi Sassoon Isarel/Cont. issues Room 2 Text/Religion/Faith Room 2 Recreation and Israel Room 7 The IDF is an army and, as any other army, it has its own cultural narratives that Calendrically, we‟re just after Shavuot and apparently nowhere near anything much Come and experience a session where Israeli culture and dance intertwined to influence its effectiveness. Leadership style, strategic thinking, military education coming up of significance. Why does this happen every year? Are we supposed to see enhance our connection with Isarel. A mixture of old, new, circle, line and partner system, etc. – all these define the IDF as it is today. This session will discuss the this as weeks of Jewish downtime with nothing much to do, or is some other current at dances. This will be a fun, lively session, so get your dancing feet on and enjoy !! history of the IDF‟s military cultural narratives in an attempt to point to the main work? advantages, as well as disadvantages, of the IDF in the beginning of the 21st century.

Malaria in Palestine 100 years ago and its current overlooked The Jewish Settlement in Palestine During the First World War To Be oe Not to Be or forgotten lesson to the world Anton Alexander Glenda Abramson Film 16:40 - 18:20 Israel/History Room 3 Israel/History Room 3 Art Room 8 The mosquito has been described as Israel's most formidable enemy. It almost denied This lecture describes the situation in Jewish settlement in Palestine after the outbreak To Be or Not to Be is a 1942 American classic comedy directed by Ernst Lubitsch, the creation of the early Zionist's dreams. This is a glimpse of the situation which of the First World War. The war thrust the yishuv into a major crisis. Contemporary about a troupe of actors in Nazi-occupied Warsaw who use their abilities at disguise existed in Palestine 100 years ago and of probably the start of the first successful documents clearly convey its sense of panic and despair. To add to its problems, a and acting to fool the occupying troops. Regarded as one of the best films of national malaria eradication campaign anywhere in the world plague of locusts devastated the country in 1915. In 1917, fearing that the war was Lubitsch's, Benny's and Lombard's careers. IMDB Ratings: 8.2/10. lost, the Turkish authorities exiled all the Jews from Jaffa-Tel Aviv to the north of the country where many died of starvation and disease

A Hitch-hiker’s guide to the Jewish Year: Jewish Festivals and Israel and Esau: The common origin of Reform and Chasidic To what extent should diaspora Jews be involved in Israel’s the meaning of Life Judaism affairs?’ Shira Solomons Gary Fellman Panel Text/Religion/Faith Room 4 Religion/History Room 4 Contemporary issues Dining Room Why bother observing Jewish Holidays? Do you do it for duty? Habit? Food? Not at Apocalyptic visions, messianic movements, close cooperation between religious and Chair: Clive Lawton all? What do our holy days teach us about our place in the world or the meaning of secular authorities in the hunt for heretics. Whilst this may describe the Iberian Lively discussion is expcted, variety of opinions and ideas and food for thought to life? Find out how being a good Jew and embracing our festivals can help you to peninsula during the Baroque era it is also an accurate description of the European close the day. You are welcome to submit a question to the panel in reception become a better human being. Jump on board as we leave Egypt and begin our long Jewish community during the 17th and 18th century. Whilst the world around the during the day. journey through the wilderness of life. Jewish community was also changing it was primarily these internal pressures that would lead to the eventual establishment of both the Chasidic and Reform denominations.

The Jewish Diet and Disease Prevention There are Still Jews in Ethiopia

Hilda Glickman Sybil Sheridan Contemporary issues Room 5 Contemporary issues Room 5 30% of cancer is associated with diet (The Lancet). Amazing new scientific information June 2013. The Jewish Agency plan to finish their operations in Ethiopia bringing the shows how natural chemicals in certain foods can slow down ageing, prevent cancer, last of the Beta Yisrael (Ethiopian Jews) to Israel and closing the Jewish school and heart disease and eye problems. This is an upbeat positive talk, not without humour, synagogue. At least 5,000 remain in Gondar city alone with countless others in about foods that you could easily add on to your diet plus one food, eaten more by villages across the North of the country. Why they were left behind, and what will Jewish people, that is certainly detrimental. This will surprise you. happen to them is a long story that Rabbi Sheridan will begin to tell…

Should the current Chief Rabbi be the last Chief Rabbi ? The Other – How should Jews relate to those who are not of our Faith? Jonathan Romain Zvi Solomons Text/Religion/Faith Room 6 Religion/Community Room 6 When the first Chief Rabbi was elected in 1840 (though some say 1802), British Jewry In a diverse world how does our tradition help us to deal with the Other? When we live needed a central religious authority and one that was Orthodox, but today the in a Christian country with a strong secular movement what does our own tradition tell community is very different and multi-denominational. Is it not time to admit that a us about how to treat non-Jews? Be prepared for some challenging texts. Chief Rabbi in the 21st century is as outdated as the clerical collars worn by the original incumbents ?

To Be oe Not to Be Journeys into Judaism

Film 13:40 - 15:20 Danny Allen Art Room 7 Faith/Contemporary Issues Room 7 To Be or Not to Be is a 1942 American classic comedy directed by Ernst Lubitsch, People come to Judaism from very different backgrounds and for very different about a troupe of actors in Nazi-occupied Warsaw who use their abilities at disguise reasons. This panel presents three unique and fascinating journeys of self-discovery, and acting to fool the occupying troops. Regarded as one of the best films of each culminating in an appearance before the Beit Din (and not for marriage!). Lubitsch's, Benny's and Lombard's careers. IMDB Ratings: 8.2/10. Whether you were born Jewish, chose to be Jewish or somewhere in between, you will be challenged and enlightened, and hopefully some stereotypes will be destroyed in the process. There will be a Q&A session following.

Painting on Silk (Up to 15 participants) Drawing with words – the art of Micrography

Eli Lejeune, Rosalie Lejeune Helena Miller Arts and recreation Room 8 Religious/Creative workshop Room 8 Brief demonstration of the technique, including use of Gutta (outliner) and fabric Micrography is a Jewish art form developed in the 9th century, with parallels in paints. No prior artistic expertise necessary. Christianity and Islam. The word literally becomes the visual image as Hebrew characters blend and weave together to tell a story. We will explore some examples of micrography and participants will have the opportunity to create their own visual image. No experience necessary!

Woven threads and torn fabric - Yosef and Zulaikha - Bible Defected Terrorist, Defected Politician Tells All based Storytelling Adele Moss, Jumana Moon Sami Hussein Story telling performance Drama Studio Israel/Contemporary Issues Drama Studio Yosef had dreams in Canaan. Zulaikha had visions in Barbary. Yosef left his father The daily life of a young Muslim Arab who, brain-washed at 19, joined a left-wing with a bloody coat. Yosef left Zulaikha with a torn robe. Can these stories meet? Palestinian terrorist organisation in the early 70s, later settling in , and Jumana and Adele share their encounter with this multi layered story, drawing on becoming involved in Arab politics in 1991 . Arab Spring, Muslim Brotherhood, Iran: traditional resources from Islam and Judaism and the 15th century love poem by poet how will these affect the future of Israel ? and mystic, Jami. Presenters

Glenda Abramson Glenda Abramson was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, educated in Israel and received her PhD from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. She now holds the titles of Professor of Hebrew and Jewish Studies and Emeritus Fellow of St Cross College and of the Oxford Centre for Hebrew and Jewish Studies.

The Jewish Settlement in Palestine During the First World War Session 5 Room 3

Carolyn Addleman Formerly in private practice running a small Wills and Probate department, Carolyn is currently Head of Legacies at KKL Executor & Trustee Company a subsidiary of JNF UK. She is a Board member of Jewish Legacy.

One of the most important Jewish Commandments Session 1 Room 6

Anton Alexander I am a retired solicitor, and only came across this forgotten topic of malaria in Palestine 100 years ago when assisting the Zionist Federation three years ago with their displays at London University of Israeli technical achievements.

Malaria in Palestine 100 years ago Session 4 Room 3

Danny Allen Danny Allen is the chair of Thames Valley Limmud for the last 5 years. Ellen, Maya and Greg will share and discuss their journeys into Judaism. "Not with you alone do I seal this covenant, but with whoever is here, standing with us today before the Almighty our God, and with whoever is not here with us today." (Deuteronomy 29:13). According to the Talmud, the souls of all converts were actually present at Mount Sinai when the Torah was given (Talmud - Shavuot 39a).

Journeys into Judaism Session 5 Room 7

David Ariel David Ariel is president of The Oxford Centre for Hebrew and Jewish Studies and the author of four books, including "What do Jews believe?" and "Kabllah: The mystic quest in Judaism".

Christian and Jews: The untold story of England's Fascination with Judaism Session 1 Room 1

Nomi Ben Ari An „Israel Activist‟, my life consists of defending Israel against lies and misinformation. I follow what is going on in Israel and read (translations of) the Arab media. I regularly give talks in schools and have written educational material for an educational website on the subject. I was a university lecturer for many years.

The Arab-Israeli Conflict. Are we getting both sides of the story? Session 3 Room 3

Hila Bram Hila worked for many years in informal education in Israel before returning to Britain where she works in Jewish education; with children from 3 to teenage, and also adult education classes; as a day job she works as Community Development worker for Oxford synagogue; and is now very involved in a new charity, Meketa supporting Ethiopian Jews.

How to crochet a kippa and how to tie your own tallit Session 6 Room 6

John Dunston John Dunston is a former Vice-President of the Oxford Jewish Congregation and a member of , from where he led a tour to explore historical and contemporary Jewish China in April. He is founder/conductor of OxfordShir, the choir of the Oxford Jewish Community. John was Head of two Quaker schools between 1990 and 2010: Sibford, near , and Leighton Park in Reading. He now works as a Reporting Inspector for the independent Schools Inspectorate and is an unrealistically optimistic supporter of Reading FC.

Vienna and the Jews – The making of the twentieth century Session 2 Room 4

Raymond Dwek Professor Raymond Dwek, CBE, FRS, is Director of the Glycobiology Institute. He is Scientific Advisor to the President of Ben- Gurion University, and is involved in establishing the National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev (NIBN). In 2013 he was awarded the CBE for services to UK/Israel scientific collaborations.

Israel‟s Negev – The rebirth of Zionism Session 1 Room 2

Gary Fellman Gary went to the Yeshiva of Eastern Parkway. He has a B.A. in History and Masters in both Engineering and Religion. Gary has been an active member of the Jewish community in three continents, including three terms as the President of the Australian Capital Territory Jewish community

Deciphering the Red Heifer Session 1 Room 4 Israel and Esau: The common origin of Reform and Chasidic Judaism Session 5 Room 4

Julian Fraser Julian Fraser is COO of Tikun where he has helped establish it as a focus for sharing Torah wisdom, a responsibility to improve the world and wellbeing through the 3 Principles .He is a graduate of the Three Principles Professional Institute and now splits his time between sharing Innate health with clients and his operational responsibilities.

Living Life Regardless of Circumstances Session 1 Room 7

Ofer Fridman Ofer Fridman is a PhD student at the Graduate Institute of Political and International Studies, at the University of Reading, UK. He is a M.A. graduate in Government with a specialization in Counter-Terrorism and Homeland Security from the Interdisciplinary Center (IDC) in Herzeliya, Israel. He is a retired IDF officer with a 15 year experience of active service.

The Israel Defence Forces: Military Cultural Narratives Session 4 Room 2

Nick Gendler Nick is co-chair of Masorti Judaism and earns a living as a career coach, executive sounding board and psychotherapist. He loves his Jewish life, music, cycling and stove fires.

A short history of Israeli rock music Session 3 Room 2

Hilda Glickman Hilda has been a lecturer at the Open university for 20 years teaching the module 'Health and Disease'. Also trained as a nutritionist and has helped hundreds of people improve their health through diet. Published articles include , 'Foods that Fight Cancer'... Gives entertaining and upbeat talks with stimulating pictures.

The Jewish Diet and Disease Prevention Session 4 Room 5

Gloria Goldman Gloria is a student of Classics & Archaeology; later graduate studies in Psychology in the USA; most recently with her love of textual study, an MA in Jewish Studies - all concerned with getting beneath the surface of self, people & ideas.

The Emerging Self - Isaac and Joseph Session 2 Room 5

Teresa Howard Teresa has drawn on her experience as the daughter of a Jewish refugee from Berlin by organising and convening annual workshops in Germany for people who would like space to talk about their inheritance from the Shoah. Teresa has a multicultural background: is an architect, a psychotherapist and organisational consultant.

Is being a Descendent of a Shoah Survivor or Refugee a problem for you? Session 1 Drama Studio

Sami Hussein Sami was born to a tolerant Muslim family in a Jewish quarter of Baghdad, became a terrorist at nineteen for three months. Escaped Sadam Hussein‟s Iraq, settling in London with my family in the 1980‟s. A regular speaker in schools, churches and synagogues, giving the facts of the Arab-Israeli conflict, defending real peace, through understanding of the Muslim/Arab mentality, which is becoming increasingly difficult.

Defected Terrorist, Defected Politician Tells All Session 5 Drama Studio

Caroline Ingram Caroline and Noemi are the left and right hand of “Ma‟asei Yadeinu” embroidering Jewish ritual textiles for home and synagogue. By day, Caroline does messy art in Reception class and at Wimbledon and District Synagogue. By night, Noemi performs Flamenco dance in Seville tablaos. Her sock monkeys are legendary. Caroline is a textile artist who has taught everyone from primary school teachers and art students to Heder and preschoolers. Recent artwork is based on religious texts and this year she teams up with daughter Naomi to form “Ma‟asei Yadeinu”, embroidering one-off Jewish ritual textiles for home and synagogue.

“I am What I Wear” - art workshop for adults Session 1 Room 8

Jeremy Ison A privacy lawyer by day, in private life Jeremy enjoys making audiences laugh with poems on subjects close to his heart such as the impossibility of pleasing Jewish parents and the soulfulness of bagels. Author of two books (as Jerry Markison) - "Wickedly clever", says writer David M Bader.

Jewish humour through limericks and haikus Session 3 Room 5

Stephen Ison Stephen Ison is one of Britain‟s few qualified Laughter Yoga Leaders. He presents „laughter sessions‟ to people of varying age groups and audience sizes to inform, engage, entertain and promote the therapeutic benefits of laughter. He works for “two” major Jewish Charities, is married with three sons and has two grand-daughters. He sings in the Shabbaton Choir, is a keen country walker, enjoys leisure cycling, and is a part time driving instructor.

Laugh for No Reason (Laughter Yoga) Session 2 Room 7

Evie Kemp Evie Kemp is the convenor of the Oxford Jewish Heritage committee, established in 1996 to raise the profile of Jewish history in the City. When she is not keeping her fellow exuberant committee members under control, she can be found working as a medical consultant at the John Radcliffe Hospital.

An Oxford Mystery-the City‟s Hidden Jewish History Session 2 Room 2

Clive Lawton Clive is Limmud‟s Senior Consultant, having been one of its founders in 1980. He is scholar in residence at the London Jewish Cultural Centre, a broadcaster and writer, and a magistrate on the North London Bench. He works worldwide as an educational consultant, within and outwith the Jewish world.

In the middle of nowhere? Session 5 Room 2 To what extent should diaspora Jews be involved in Israel‟s affairs?‟ Session 6 Dining Room

Eli Lejeune Eli has experience of executing artistic projects in a variety of media formats - Calligraphy, plaster casting, mosaics and priniting on silk. Formerly an accountant working in Singapore and Malaysia.

Painting on Silk Session 4 Room 8 Darwin, Hawking, Dawkins - A Jewish Reponse Session 3 Room 1

Noemi Luz Dance trained with a HNC in Fine Art (video installation), Noemi performs Flamenco dance in Seville tablaos and has choreographed cross cultural shows and opera and taught flamenco. Embroidering Mayan women‟s ritual cloths, Noemi is also the younger half of “Ma‟asei Yadeinu” Embroideries. Her sock monkeys are legendary.

“I am What I Wear” - art workshop for adults Session 1 Room 8

Judi Lyons Judi is a regular limmudnik and member of RHC. She leads study sessions and is an experienced adult educator. Last year she went on a Roots tour to Lithuania and rediscovered the writings of Romain Gary, as she passed his plaque on one of the walls in Vilnius.

Madame Rosa – another Tall Story by Romain Gary Session 2 Room 3

Laurence Lyons Dr Laurence Lyons is a leading authority on leadership and organizational change and is a member of Reading Hebrew Congregation.

In conversation with the Serpent – Analysing the Dialogue of Creation Session 3 Room 4 Alexander Massey Alexander Massey is an international solo singer, multi-instrumentalist and composer, and founder of the Jewish Music UK network; he has led davennen and singing for several Jewish communities. He is also a writer, lyricist, group facilitator (UK, Europe, Australia), and singing teacher and choir leader. Website: www.lashon-hakodesh.co.uk

Sing-A-Gogue! New songs, rounds and chants for synagogue (singing workshop) Session 3 Drama Studio

Helena Miller Micrography is a Jewish art form developed in the 9th century, with parallels in Christianity and Islam. The word literally becomes the visual image as Hebrew characters blend and weave together to tell a story. We will explore some examples of micrography and participants will have the opportunity to create their own visual image. No experience necessary!

Drawing with words – the art of Micrography Session 5 Room 8

Sarah Montagu Sarah grew up in London and has lived in Oxford for the last 7 years. She read Hebrew Studies at Cambridge and is part of the Mosaic (adult education) group at the OJC; but (just to be different) is a midwife as her day job. Hebrew calligraphy is her hobby.

Traditional Jewish Papercuts Session 3 Room 8

Jumana Moon Jumana Moon is a storyteller who has a particular love of stories from her Islamic faith. She is involved in interfaith storytelling, sharing stories with people from many faiths and none. Jumana works particularly closely with Jewish storyteller Adele Moss, creating sessions that explore their experiences of both Judaism and Islam.

Woven threads and torn fabric - Yosef and Zulaikha - Bible based Storytelling Session 4 Drama Studio

Adele Moss Adele has a background in drama and education and has been telling stories for many years, mainly in Oxford. She is especially interested in the capacity of story to create connections between people of different faiths and cultures and feels deeply enriched by her story telling partnership with Muslim teller, Jumana Moon.

Woven threads and torn fabric - Yosef and Zulaikha - Bible based Storytelling Session 4 Drama Studio

Jonathan Romain Rabbi, writer and broadcaster, Jonathan Romain is minister of Maidenhead Synagogue and has written books on the history of British Jewry and Reform Judaism. He appears on radio and television, and is a columnist for the "Jewish Chronicle". He is chaplain of the Jewish Police Association

A Jewish view of Christianity Session 3 Room 6 Should the current Chief Rabbi be the last Chief Rabbi ? Session 4 Room 6

Naomi Sassoon Naomi Sasson is a 19 years old speech and therapy student at the university of Reading. She first begun Israeli dancing at 7 years old with The Israeli Dancing Institute and had performed with the troup at various locationns including Trafalgar Square, The Jewish Living Expo and Limmud Conference. In addition to the troupe, she dances in IDI weekly, Harkada classes in London.

Israeli dancing (for beginners) Session 3 Room 7 Israeli dancing 2 (Outdoors if weather permits) Session 6 Room 7

Sybil Sheridan Sybil Sheridan lives in Maidenhead. She was formerly the Rabbi of Reading Liberal Synagogue and now works Wimbledon Synagogue. A long standing educator; areas of interest include, Bible, Women‟s Studies and Social Action. She is joint founder of the charity Meketa which supports the Jews remaining in Ethiopia.

Moses‟ Other Wife Session 2 Room 6 There are Still Jews in Ethiopia Session 5 Room 5

Norman Solomon Norman Solomon has been in turn a United Synagogue Rabbi, an Interfaith Consultant, and a University Lecturer, latterly at Oxford. His books include A Very Short Introduction to Judaism, A Historical Dictionary of the Jewish Religion, the Penguin Classics Talmud Selection, and most recently Torah from Heaven: The Reconstruction of Faith.

What Should The Modern Jew Believe? Session 2 Drama Studio

Shira Solomons Shira has been a Jewish educator and events organiser in England since 2000. She runs the exciting new cheder at Reading Hebrew Congregation, where she works as Rebbetzin. She is passionate about practical spirituality and Jewish education that enables children, women and men to expand their intellectual and spiritual horizons.

A Hitch-hiker‟s guide to the Jewish Year: Jewish Festivals and the meaning of Life Session 4 Room 4

Zvi Solomons Zvi Solomons is Rabbi of Reading Hebrew Congregation. He has been an avid Limmudnick for 15 years, one more than his wife Shira, and several more than his three children. He is passionate about promoting the Universalist approach within Orthodoxy, and has a hinterland (he used to be an archaeologist and a surveyor). He is also very interested in diversity in Israel. Zvi collects fountain pens, books, and Limmud sessions.

"But I'm in love!" - an Orthodox approach to interfaith relationships. Session 2 Room 8

The Other – How should Jews relate to those who are not of our Faith? Session 5 Room 6 CHAVRUTA: Tweet me some Torah: A River runs through it Session 1 Room 3

Adam Squires Dr Adam Squires is a Physical Chemistry Lecturer and researcher in Biophysical Chemistry and Nanomaterials at the University of Reading. He also plays the keyboard, and, together with two Chemistry professors and a retired Food Bioscientist, is part of the least well known rock band in the Thames Valley area.

Evidence, Faith, Religion and the Scientific Method Session 4 Room 1

Hannah Weisfeld Hannah is one of the founders and director of Yachad, a pro-Israel pro-peace movement for British Jews. She has spent time living and working in Israel and Malawi and holds a BA in English Literature from Sussex University and MSc in Global Politics from the LSE.

What loving Israel means Session 5 Room 1

Jonathan Wittenberg Jonathan Wittenberg has been the rabbi of the New North London Synagogue for the last 25 years and Senior Rabbi of Masorti Judaism UK for last 5 years. He loves Judaism, literature, history, plants, animals and people. Inter-faith contacts and pastoral care interest him deeply.

An old linen bag of letters Session 1 Room 2

Ruvi Ziegler Ruvi Ziegler is a lecturer at the School of Law of the University of Reading, a DPhil candidate in Human Rights Law at Lincoln College, Oxford, and a researcher at the Israel Democracy Institute (analysing questions of immigration, asylum and citizenship). Previous positions: visiting researcher at Harvard Law School; legal advising officer in the Israeli Defence Forces.

Israel‟s treatment of African Asylum Seekers: Legal Aspects Session 1 Room 5