Running a short, guided discussion session is a powerful alternative to a formal class to complement
your beginner services. There are several resources for running such discussion groups. Again, the
topic does not necessarily have to be specifically on the High Holidays (though it is always best to tie
it in somehow).
Aish UK’s Q & Aish
A nicely packaged packet of cards with questions on one side and answers on the other. The answers are spelled out nicely with sources given for reference,rather than text-based study. (Note: Some of this material has been integrated with the NLE Resources Prayer Service Companions)
Rabbi Yaakov Haber and the OU’s Pardes Project Model
Each module offers questions followed by Jewish sources for discussion, with some additional ideas and sources added by NLE Resources. See their Recommended Guidelines for Moderating a Discussion Group.
Can a Person Change?
Facing Up: Asking or Granting Forgiveness
What’s with the Guilt?
The Challenge and Opportunity of Money
Pondering the Existence of God
Transforming Character
Is it All About Me?
Is Life Just a Roll of the Dice, A Play of the Cards?
Does Our Profession Reflect Our Essence?
See also: 2001: A Space Odyssey Workshop
YU’s Shabbat Table Discussions
Discussion primers that present hypothetical cases and Jewish sources for discussion about them. The full listing of Shabbat Table discussions can be found here. Not all topics will be relevant to a High Holidays service, but here are some that potentially could connect:
