It will be some time before the Jewish Center in Kreuzberg is completed. But even though there is no building yet, the programmes and content have already been in development for several years - geared towards the needs of Jewish initiatives and organizations. Art programs such as LABA Berlin, networking opportunities such as Eruv Hub, learning opportunities such as Kreuzberg Beit Midrash and various cultural events will find a home in the Jewish Center in Kreuzberg once the building is completed.
Jewish art and culture
One of the aims of the Jewish Center is to present and promote the impressive diversity of Jewish art and culture.
In the last decade, the number of Jewish artists working in Berlin and Germany has risen sharply. The LABA Berlin program was founded in 2021 with the aim of making contemporary German-Jewish art visible. Jewish artists are supported in developing their own art projects on an overarching theme and presenting them to the public. In 2023, LABA was awarded the prestigious art promotion prize "The Power of the Arts".
The open-air cinema in the garden of the Fraenkelufer synagogue has taken place every summer since 2021. The film series presents films on Jewish topics in cooperation with Jewish Moving Pictures e.V. The public film evenings are very popular every year.
In addition, the synagogue regularly hosts concerts and performances in collaboration with many actors from the cultural sector.
A place for Jewish learning - for all generations
The center is intended to be a place of learning for all age groups - from the youngest in the planned daycare center to adults who want to continue their education in the spirit of lifelong learning. A wide range of offers will reflect the broad spectrum of Jewish traditions and perspectives. Open exchange is a top priority: Learning, discussion and dialog with other religions and cultures are encouraged - in different languages and on a variety of topics.
As part of the Jewish learning and teaching center Kreuzberg Beit Midrash, we have explored key topics from the Jewish tradition in several series of events on Fraenkelufer.
Networking and social innovation
The Jewish center is intended to facilitate encounters between generations, religions and nationalities. It will also provide a home for a variety of Jewish initiatives and organizations in Berlin that do not have their own premises or want to network with others.
Networking, mutual support, encounters and learning are the goals of the Eruv Hub - a Jewish co-working space where various partner organizations from the Jewish world have come together over several years.