Scholars-in-Residence Weekend

Scholars-in-Residence 2025 Highlights and Resources

We are delighted to share highlights from an extraordinary and inspiring 2025 Scholars-in-Residence weekend at WJC. With journalist Abigail Pogrebin and Rabbi Dov Linzer at the helm, the weekend was filled with deep learning, spirited discussion, and a powerful sense of community. From their thoughtful reflections on Torah to the lively Hevrutah session and an engaging Passover workshop, our scholars brought insight, warmth, and a dynamic exchange of ideas that resonated with all who attended.

As you prepare for the upcoming Passover holiday, our 2025 WJC Scholars-in-Residence have generously provided several thoughtful and useful resources that follow up on their weekend conversations with us:

Rabbi Dov Linzer has written and provided links to the following three commentaries:

• The Rehabilitation of Hametz (As noted in our Shabbat morning sermon)

This article expands on the concept of tzimtzum and also acting and putting yourself out in the world – the theme of our sermon.

• Taking Responsibility for the Story We Tell (Expanding on the theme we discussed in the Hevrutah Torah study)

Taking responsibility for our text, our story, is at the core of the mitzvah of recounting the Exodus on the seder night.  The focus on speech and telling a story is central to the idea of freedom.

• Playing an Active Role in our Redemption (More thoughts on a theme that came up in the Sunday morning learning)

In our religious lives, we must learn to take an active role. . . Too often in our Judaism and religious practice, we look for meaning to be provided from the outside.

. . . and to the following comprehensive booklet prepared for Passover 5785:

• YCT’s Pesach Torah Reader

This year’s Yeshivat Chovevei Torah compilation includes articles offering practical guidance, thought-provoking pieces to deepen the holiday’s meaning, and creative seder approaches for engaging children.

Abigail Pogrebin has authored and provided the following two Passover resources that she referenced in the Sunday morning session:

Haggadah by Abby Pogrebin
This comprehensive 32-page guide for Seder leaders integrates all the essential seder steps, along with fun and engaging activities for everyone around your table.

Speed Maggid Game
Included in the Haggadah Roadmap, this fast-paced Passover trivia game is a delightful way to involve even the youngest seder attendee in retelling the Passover story.

2025 Scholars-in-Residence Weekend: Closing Conversation: No More Boring Seders –How to Make THIS Passover Meaningful and Memorable