The Jewish Men’s Retreat (JMR) retreat community represents a broad range of Jewish men: young adults and elders; all sexual orientations; single, married, and divorced; JMR veterans and many newcomers; and men with a broad range of Jewish knowledge and observance. Along with the connections that naturally develop among men who meet at our retreats, many men have used the JMR as an occasion to deepen their relationships with their fathers, sons, or brothers, friends, and congregants by inviting them to join them for the weekend. About 400 men have participated in JMR over the past 25 years. Give yourself and others the gift of experiencing this truly unique weekend!

Our Vision
The vision of JMR is to call men forth into the fullness of their being as individuals and as active participants in their communities and in the wider world.

Our Mission
The mission of JMR is to create loving, transformative experiences that encourage men to take the next steps on their journeys as  empowered Jewish men.

History
JMR previously existed under the auspices of Eilat Chayim Jewish Renewal Retreat Center and Camp Isabella Freedman, now part of Hazon.

Future Dates

JMR28: 
October 25-27, 2019

​JMR29: 
​November 13-15, 2020

"The Jewish Men’s Retreat brings together an incredible group of men each year. The generosity of spirit, affirmation of the image of G-d in each other, and cultivation of our best selves at these retreats inspires and uplifts long after the closing circle. The JMR is a great way to reconnect with yourself as a man and to find out how other men are doing. It’s not often safe to be vulnerable with other men, but at JMR this is not only possible but encouraged and supported."
—Mark Dwortzan

Sample Jewish Men's Retreat Weekend

​Every JMR is different and reflects the creative energy of the Co-Chairs and their planning team.  Each JMR will share the common elements of Shabbat services and
Menschwork's trademark Mishpacha Groups (confidential, nonjudgmental,
​deep discussion groups relating to the weekend's theme). 

Below is a sample weekend agenda.

Erev Shabbat
Arrival & Check-In (2:00 - 4:00 p.m.)
Welcoming Ceremony
Candle Lighting & Kabbalat Shabbat
Dinner
Mishpacha Group, Session 1 (small groups where safely discuss the weekend's theme)
Niggun Jam or Drum Circle
 
Shabbat
Breakfast
Shabbat Services 
Lunch
Early Afternoon Activities
Mishpacha Group, Session 2
Dinner
Evening Program, Mariv, and Havdalah
Campfire
 
Sunday
Breakfast
Morning Activity(ies)
Mishpacha Group, Session 3
Lunch
Closing Ceremony
Departure (around 1:30 p.m.)