“Turn it, and turn it, for everything is in it. Reflect on it and grow old and gray with it. Do not budge from it, for there is nothing better.” (Pirkei Avot 5:22)
The wise Rabbi Ben Bag Bag urged us to seek all that we need in our sacred Torah scrolls; that each time we turn the scroll we are exposed to new learning that will inspire, challenge and ultimately transform our lives indefinitely. Jewish learning was meant to be reflective, with purpose and with seriousness, and it was most assuredly not limited to the young. No, according to this text, as we grow old, grey even, The study of Torah, is to remain a fundamental cornerstone of our lives.
Here at Temple Israel, adult education is not confined to the four walls of a classroom. We invite you – encourage you – to see Jewish learning as a chance to nurture your soul, immerse yourself in the wonders of Jewish life, and stimulate your natural and intellectual curiosity about our tradition. Through formal, informal, intergenerational, and experiential opportunities offered in unique and diverse settings, we foster collaboration, social connectedness, and a warm and nurturing community in which to learn and grow.
Introduction to Judaism
September 29 – February 2
Introduction to Judaism is an engaging learning program designed for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Jewish life. Open to all, this is an 18-week course designed for individuals and couples who are Jewish or of any faith background. We’ll explore all the significant building blocks of Jewish life and practice through the Reform perspective, including Jewish holidays, ceremonies, and liturgy. Find out more here.
Each journey towards conversion is as unique and varied as the individual student. The timing and process will depend on the student’s “sponsoring clergy” and what their journey has involved thus far.
As clergy we want our students to study, but also live a Jewish life for at least a full year of holidays, study, and traditions! Here at Temple Israel, conversion students truly guide their path – choosing topics they want to explore more fully – like Israeli politics, the different philosophical understandings of God, or the history of Anti-Semitism. We honor and treasure students on the path to learning more about Judaism and conversion as they are invested, engaged, and wonderfully curious about topics and traditions we hold dear. Our conversion students hold a mirror up to our souls and ask us to share what is so special and sacred about our faith tradition.
If you or anyone you know is ready for a life-altering, ever-inspiring leg in your journey, please contact us – we would love to hold your hand while you take your first steps on this path, regardless of where it takes you.
Dreaming of your own moment at the Torah? Feel like you missed out when you were a teen? Wish you could do it again? It’s never too late to read from our most precious and sacred text!
Interested adults with basic decoding skills should contact Cantor Irena Althul.