MJC&S offers a varietiy of adult education classes with Rabbi Judith. Whether you are new to Judaism, are a lifelong learner, or simply have an interest in a particular subject, there’s something for everyone. Below are our 2012-2103 classes. Come learn with us!
A Novel Approach to Jewish History
Tuesdays beginning October 16
6:00–7:00 p.m.
Location: Library
Join Rabbi Judith as we open the pages of Jewish history through literature. Each month, we will investigate one or two books on a similar theme. In October, we will begin with The Dovekeepers by Alice Hoffman, a story of the women of Masada, and then read As a Driven Leaf by Milton Steinberg to give an alternate perspective on the same time period (72 CE). In November we will reexamine the story of Dinah, Jacob’s sister, as portrayed in The Red Tent by Anita Diamant. Next, we’ll read My Glorious Brothers, the classic novel of the Maccabees by Howard Fast. We’ll end the semester with Marek Halter’s saga The Book of Abraham. In the spring, we will be reading books such as The Last Jew by Noah Gordon, a story of Spain in 1492; Rashi’s Daughters by Maggie Anton; and The Yiddish Policeman’s Union: A Novel by Michael Chabon. Even if you have read these books before, it is an opportunity to explore our Jewish roots in an imaginative and fun discussion.
Open only to synagogue members; no charge
The Essentials of Kabbalah
Wednesdays, October 24 & 31; November 7 & 14
7:30–9:00 p.m.
Location: Small Sanctuary
Using Daniel Matt’s The Essential Kabbalah as our guide, we will explore the basic principles of Kabbalah as they relate to our own spiritual search. This class is interactive, exciting, and life changing. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to study Jewish mysticism with Rabbi Judith!
Synagogue members: no charge Nonmember guests: $200 for series
The Tales of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov
Wednesdays: Nov 28; Dec 5, 12 & 19
Location: Small Sanctuary
Rabbi Nachman of Breslov was one of the greatest mystics of the nineteenth century, and his tales continue to inspire. With Rabbi Judith’s guidance, we open these tales and find their meaning for our lives. The first tale discussed will be “The Chandelier,” a story of light and Hanukkah. Be prepared to participate in a creative project in this interactive class. Limited to 22 participants.
Members: no charge Nonmember guests: $200 for the series
Waking Up to Jewish Ethics
Thursdays beginning October 18
7:30–8:30 a.m.
Location: Rabbi’s Office
We will continue our ongoing ethics study, using The Book of Jewish Values by Rabbi Joseph Telushkin as our guide. Join us for a coffee, pastry, and a lively discussion every Thursday morning.
Open only to synagogue members; no charge
Torah Study
Saturdays; ongoing
9:30–11:30 a.m.
Each Saturday, we will delve into the portion of the week as we explore the relevance and connection of Torah to our lives. Join Rabbi Judith for this lively discussion that contin-°©‐ ues to reveal new understandings as we cycle through the years.
Open to all; no charge. Just come!
