Special events are coming up through the Mother Lode Jewish Community, with a number of fall gatherings planned.

The first-of-the-year Kabbalat Shabbat Service will take place on Friday evening, Oct. 19 at 5:30 p.m. at a private home in Murphys. The evening begins with a ‘dairy/vegetarian/parve’ potluck dinner followed by a service around 7 p.m.

On Sunday, Oct. 21, the group will host its first Jewish Learning Workshop, led by Rabbi Andra Greenwald, in which attendees will explore facets of evening and morning prayers. This is the first of a series of three such classes, with the other two to take place in November and in February. Each class will be meaningful if attended separately; however, the long-term goal is that this would be the beginning journey for those interested in becoming bar/bat mitzvah. This class will be held at a private meeting hall in Columbia from 1 p.m. to 3 pm. Refreshments will be served.

The MLJC’s mission is to provide opportunities and events that nurture a vibrant and enduring Jewish identity, culture and community in the Mother Lode. New members and guests are always welcome. Call 209-533-1650 to learn more. These gatherings are open at no charge to non-members who wish to participate and learn more about the Jewish community.