The J offers many programs that address the mind, body, and soul
Send your programming questions to Director of Special Projects Zoe Weil.
Featured fall program
November 6: ‘That’s So Jewish’ quiz show
Created by comedian Eitan Levine, the That’s So Jewish traveling quiz show, made possible in part by the Epsman Fund at the Birmingham Jewish Foundation, will celebrate Jewish culture with humor and pride. Part trivia and part comedy, the show will feature two Jewish comedians along with our very own Andy Saag in a hilarious competition of Jewish trivia and culture. Get your tickets today!
*Asterisks below denote daytime scheduling that might be more convenient for retirees and seniors.
Adult classes (LJCC membership not required)
Starting in September, our new four-week creative series will introduce you to a variety of artistic styles, including oil and chalk pastels, acrylics, collage, and watercolors.
All are welcome to attend these services on Fridays at 11 a.m. unless otherwise noted. RSVP required (due two days prior); complimentary lunch included:
- August 29, 11 a.m. with Rabbi Friedman
- September 12, 11 a.m. with Rabbi Wright
- October 24, 11 a.m. with Rabbi Henkin
- November 7, 11 a.m. with Rabbi Friedman
- December 19, 11 a.m. with Rabbi Wright
Read more: “New grants fund two-part Shabbat program that strengthens ties to Israel“
Join the Roz Feigelson Circle of Life Knitting Group that meets Tuesdays at 10 a.m. No experience necessary.
Beginner Classes
- Taught by Dawn Holloway
- $100 for members / $150 for non-members
- 3 classes for 2 hours each
- Offered quarterly (December 2025 is full)
- Class limit is 12, so if you’re interested fill out the interest form and we’ll send you the registration link before the next quarter’s sessions go live
Mahjong open play Thursdays 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
- Free and open to the public
- For intermediate/advanced players
- Titles and cards provided
Mahjong open play Tuesdays 5-7 p.m.
- Free for members / $5 pay-to-play for non-members
- For beginners
- Tiles and cards provided
Mahjong cards
- Purchase your official 2025 card at The J in March ($14 for small print, $15 for large)
Explore life stories through guided writing exercises, group sharing, and supportive feedback to inspire connection, self-expression, and a sense of l’dor v’dor | legacy through storytelling.
Join us for drinks, connection, and conversation as we spotlight local organizations making a difference. Meet others who are passionate about similar work, learn about the nonprofit’s mission, and hear from Jewish community members who are connected with the featured groups.
The first session, on September 4, will focus on Greater Birmingham Ministries through the eyes of Rev. Carolyn Foster, community coordinator for the organization, and board member Karen Weinrib.
Join Rabbi Yossi Friedman for an open conversation about all things Jewish as part of our monthly lunchtime series that explores pretty much whatever you’ve ever wanted to know about the world of Judaism.
September 9
“Exploring Good & Evil”
Tackling the Jewish understanding of free will, the yetzer hara | evil inclination, and how the tradition sees morality and temptation.
November 11
“Chosen People?”
A discussion of what chosen-ness really means in Jewish thought: privilege, responsibility, misunderstanding, and modern perspectives.
December 9
“Jewish Identity in a Christian Culture”
A talk about what it means to be Jewish in a majority-Christian society — especially in December.
January 13
“Heaven, Hell, and the World to Come”
A return to big questions: What does Judaism say about the afterlife, the soul, and the messianic era?
February 10
“Angels, Demons & Dreams: Mysticism in Judaism”
An engaging session on Kabbalah, supernatural beliefs, and how traditional Judaism approaches mystical ideas.
(March TBD)
May 12
“Why Do Bad Things Happen?”
How does Judaism confront suffering, injustice, and tragedy?
Membership not required.
This LJCC oral history program uses a live-interview format to present stories about Jewish life in Birmingham and across the South.
Complimentary tickets include lunch.
See what’s coming up, get tickets, and view past SJV events.
Wednesdays, noon-1 p.m.
Neither membership nor registration required to attend this free event.
Join us for some relaxing tai chi lessons in the senior lounge. Galina Waites will be instructing this journey into mindfulness as a partner with United Way of Central Alabama. Everyone is welcome. No prior experience required.
In partnership with the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Office of Service Learning and Undergraduate Research, The J is excited to offer a helpful course to support members with using smartphones and other technology.
Each class will include a short lesson on a specific topic, followed by time to ask questions or get help with your own devices.
Created by comedian Eitan Levine, the That’s So Jewish traveling quiz show coming November 6 will celebrate Jewish culture with humor and pride. Part trivia and part comedy, the show will feature two Jewish comedians along with our very own Andy Saag in a hilarious competition of Jewish trivia and culture. Get your tickets today!
‘TA Nosh of Yiddish: A Little Taste of a Big Tradition
Adult fitness (LJCC membership required)
Check out our myriad cycling, group fitness, low-intensity, and mind-body offerings for members (reservations not required).
The J offers dozens of group fitness classes, including many that are geared specifically for seniors:
- Aqua Aerobics
- Body Balance
- Chair Yoga
- Creative Movement
- J-Move
- Retro Aerobics
- Yoga (with instructor Nan)
- Zumba Gold
Learn more and see schedules here. Send queries to Fitness Director Camari Princewill.
If you are uncertain about where to start your fitness journey or are ready to set new goals, working with a certified personal trainer could be right for you.
Our personal trainers will evaluate your current status, teach you the fundamentals of exercise technique, and recommend particular exercises specific to your needs. They will teach you how to exercise properly in order to achieve weight goals, increase strength, and perform everyday functional movements to decrease the risk of injury.
Send queries to Director of Fitness Camari Princewill.
If you are uncertain about where to start your fitness journey or are ready to set new goals, working with a certified personal trainer could be right for you.
Our personal trainers will evaluate your current status, teach you the fundamentals of exercise technique, and recommend particular exercises specific to your needs. They will teach you how to exercise properly in order to achieve weight goals, increase strength, and perform everyday functional movements to decrease the risk of injury.
Send queries to Director of Fitness Camari Princewill.