Menschwork’s BrotherKeeper Online Magazine (January 2026)

Please click this link to read the January 2026 edition of Menschwork’s BrotherKeeper Online Magazine.

Menschwork’s
BROTHERKEEPER
Online Magazine
Year 4/Edition 1

 IN THIS ISSUE OF BROTHERKEEPER

A Word From The Magazine Editor

As the BROTHERKEEPER Magazine begins its fourth year of publication, I have decided to step aside and pass along the editorship to two experienced JMR men, David Shaw and Terry Sexton. Not only are they exceptionally talented writers, but they also are deeply committed to our mission. I’m delighted that they have agreed to become co-editors and I couldn’t be happier. When I started our online magazine three years ago, I wanted to create a semi-annual publication that would capture the depth, beauty and brotherhood of our Menschwork community. It has been an honor to serve you all. Now it’s your turn! Step up and volunteer your talents to keep growing our unique community. – Allen M. Spivack

New Logo for BrotherKeeper Magazine

Many thanks to our JMR brother and graphic artist, Boaz Kimelman, for designing the new logo for our magazine. We appreciate his efforts to spruce up our image!

New Co-Editors For
BROTHERKEEPER Magazine

David Shaw and Terry Sexton

JMR34: A Resounding Success

With over 90 men in attendance, JMR34 was a resounding success. This year, the JMR attracted a large number of first time attendees, including many younger men. The weekend featured heartfelt conversations during our mishpacha groups; religious services that resonated with exceptional davenning and inspired drashot; creative and impactful Pathways sessions; a Saturday night campfire featuring an Ohel Avot (sweat lodge); and opportunities throughout the weekend to make new friends and reconnect with old ones.

We deeply appreciate the inspired work of the three co-chairs, David Piver, Gabi Silver and Ralph Benmergui, and all of the men who served on the planning team who birthed this event. It was truly a labor of love!

We’ve collected an assortment of photos from the JMR34 weekend for your enjoyment. Be sure to click on the purple button below to view Phil Wachsler’s photo montage. Now’s the time for you to pre-register for JMR35 (see below to do that).

Opening Circle at JMR34

Photo by Shawn Zevit

Mealtime at JMR34

(L to R): Rabbi Eugene Fleischman Sotirescu, David Malchman, Ben Richmond, Ira Spool

Photo by Allen Spivack

Saturday Night Campfire

Photo by Reb Shawn Zevit

Closing Circle at JMR34

Alan Harris Blowing the Shofar

Photo by Phil Wachsler

Derek Magiotta Reflects On Attending His First Jewish Men’s Retreat

JMR34 was a deeply meaningful experience for me. In the aftermath of October 7th, I’ve found myself actively searching for a stronger sense of Jewish community, a community of Jewish men with whom I could connect authentically, feel grounded with and reflect openly. JMR34 provided exactly that. From the moment I arrived, I was met with warmth and openness. Everyone was incredibly welcoming and intentional about making sure that I (and every other participant) felt included, supported, and encouraged to fully embrace both the experience and one another.

One of the highlights for me was my mishpacha group, where I had the opportunity to dive deeply into conversations around nature, spirituality, and finding awe, both in our surroundings and within ourselves. Those discussions were powerful and grounding, and they reminded me how much meaning can be found when I slow down and reflect.  Meeting Jewish men of all ages and from many different walks of life gave me a renewed sense of perspective. In a time marked by uncertainty and pain, it was inspiring to see the common thread that binds us together-our shared values, resilience, and commitment to community. Overall, JMR34 left a lasting impression on me, and I truly cannot wait to attend the next retreat.

New Sculpture Unveiled at JMR34

To commemorate his personal milestone of attending his 30th JMR, Allen M. Spivack created a sculpture called Brotherkeepers. The tabletop sculpture measures 32”w x 36”h x 14”d. The sculpture honors the transformative power of the JMR experience and the ways in which men have been nurtured and mentored over three decades. The sculpture was displayed at JMR34.

Visit his website: www.theothermanofsteel.com