With the High Holidays rapidly nearing, it is often a time for introspection and spiritual elevation. Many synagogues and schools offer programs or lectures to assist in this process, while other individuals reach out to friends and family via social media or offer other personal, heartfelt apologies.

But something different to add to the calendar this year is a lecture given by “Jew in the City” Allison Josephs, called “Sleepless in New Jersey: A childhood murder, a search for meaning,” where she will discuss her personal teshuvah story. Ms. Josephs’ funny and inspiring lectures leave her audiences both laughing and crying. She has heard from attendees, even years later, that they are still thinking of the message she left them with.

“Jew in the City” has been invited to speak all over the world, and our community is lucky enough to host her at the home of Barry and Joy Sklar on Motzei Shabbat, Sept. 19, at 8:30 pm. Ms. Josephs has been involved in Jewish outreach for over 15 years, selflessly dedicating her life to inspiring and instructing others in the beauty of Jewish culture and tradition. Those she teaches are not only the religiously uneducated, but even those from a frum background have found strength in her personal stories and meaning in the lessons she shares.

Often considered a spokesperson for Orthodox Jews, Ms. Josephs works to portray the religious sects in a positive light, a conclusion she arrived at after much soul-searching. This can be the year that we are all open-minded and accepting of those like ourselves, and unlike ourselves. And the message of “Jew in the City” is not one to be missed! Light refreshments will be served.