‘A visit in Abuja with the Igbo Jews of Nigeria’

Next Adult Education Program at Temple Habonim

Rabbi Barry Dolinger and Naomi Baine in Abuja, Nigeria. /COURTESY | Shai AfsaiLast August, Rabbi Barry Dolinger, his wife, linguist Naomi Baine, and writer/photographer Shai Afsai visited the Igbo Jews in Abuja, Nigeria. Their story is the topic of the next program in the Adult Education series at Temple Habonim, 165 New Meadow Road in Barrington. On May 21, at 7 p.m., Dolinger, Baine and Afsai will talk about this visit as well as the special relationship between Rhode Island Jewry and the Igbo Jews. The story of this relationship is one of continuing friendship, of commonalities and differences, and of the primacy of identity.

Dolinger received his ordination in 2011 from RIETS affiliated with Yeshiva University.  He currently serves as rabbi and spiritual leader of Congregation Beth Sholom, the oldest operating Orthodox Synagogue in Providence.

Afsai’s articles and photographs have appeared in many newspapers, journals and other publications, including The Jerusalem Post, The Times of Israel and The Providence Journal. Much of his recent work has focused on the religious traditions of Jews from Ethiopia and on the Igbo practicing Judaism in Nigeria. His photography will be on exhibit at Temple Habonim.

This program is free and open to the community. For more information go to www.templehabonim.org or call the temple office at 401-245-6536.

LOIS KEMP is a member of the Adult Education Committee at Temple Habonim.