Shaare Zedek welcomes author Roy Doliner as scholar-in-residence

Shaare Zedek Synagogue welcomes Roy Doliner, co-author of “The Sistine Secrets,” for a weekend of events Nov. 17-20.

Doliner, a writer based in Rome, Italy, brings a background in theater, film, art history and Judaic studies to the learning and discussion events, made possible by Shaare Zedek’s Sara & Leo Wolf Adult Education, and is partially underwritten by the Schwartz family (Stephen and Bunny, Jerry and Roz, and David and Darlene) in memory of their parents, Clara and Julius Schwartz.

Doliner’s eclectic background includes several foreign languages, art history, religious history, Italian history, theatre, film and Judaic studies.  His book, “The Sistine Secrets: Michelangelo’s Forbidden Messages in the Heart of the Vatican” (co-authored with Rabbi Benjamin Blech), is an international bestseller.  His new book, “Caravaggio: A Light in the Shadows,” has recently come out in Italy in both Italian and English to critical acclaim and is on the way to becoming another bestseller.  

At 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 17, there will be a dinner, followed by Doliner’s talk about “The Sistine Secrets” at 7:30 p.m.  The cost for dinner is $12.50 for adults, $8 for children (12 and under) – specify chicken or vegetarian when making a reservation with Nancy at 314-727-1747. RSVPs required by Nov. 12 – also requested from those planning to attend only the lecture program.

On Nov. 20, following Shabbat Kiddush, Doliner will present a Lunch and Learn entitled “Keeping Kosher at the Coliseum” about his experience being a Jew in Rome and in the Vatican.

Also on Nov. 20, at Shaare Zedek’s Mincha/Seudat Shleshi/Ma’ariv services, he will conclude with a lecture entitled “Eternal People and the Eternal City – Secrets of Jewish Roman History.” Please join us for this unique experience of learning about Rome, Jewish history and Michelangelo. For more information contact the Shaare Zedek office, 314-727-1747.