WATERVILLE- The sixth annual Maine Conference for Jewish Life will take place at Thomas College and in downtown Waterville Friday, June 21 through Sunday, June 23. A program of the Center for Small Town Jewish Life, the conference offers an opportunity to be part of the largest gathering in Maine devoted exclusively to Jewish learning, music, food, culture, and community. Over 200 people are expected to attend the learning and experiential sessions at Thomas College June 21 through 22 and in downtown Waterville on Sunday, June 23.

The conference features dozens of dynamic speakers, and rich opportunities for learning and community building. Registration fees increase on May 31, and housing is limited, so early registration is encouraged.

For the full schedule of workshops and learning sessions and to register, go to  http://www.colby.edu/ jewishlife/conference/

Kids’ and teen programming will be offered. The conference includes meals, music, and the option to choose from several Sabbath prayer services and hikes.

Conference highlights include:

-Keynote speaker, Amir Tibon, Washington editor of the Israeli newspaper Ha’aretz. Immediately after the 2014 Gaza War, Tibon and his wife Miri moved from Tel Aviv to the kibbutz of Nahal Oz, the closest place in Israel to Gaza City. In his talk on Friday evening, June 21, Tibon will speak about  “Life on the - Gaza Border,” discussing his own experiences, as well as the broader political and security contexts.

For those who love a hands-on artistic experience, there will be Tallit Making at the Hathaway Center with two Maine artists. Participants will design their own one-of-a-kind silk tallit (prayer shawl) using pre-made silk scarves and fabric dye.
 Additional sessions include:

- Creating your own rituals
- Synagogue leadership and security
- A panel discussion on Maine conversion experiences
- Maine rabbis from across the state speaking on "My Favorite Text and Why in Ten Minutes"
 

The Center for Small Town Jewish Life at Colby College showcases how academic and community institutions can work together to improve the cultural life of small towns while enriching the education of college students.

For more information about the Center and the conference, and to register for the entire weekend or any of the individual days, go to jewishlife@colby.edu, or call 207-859-4271.