Current Classes


Torah Study

Join Torah Café every Saturday morning at 9:30 AM as we explore the Torah through The Social Justice Torah Commentary in 5783.

Every Saturday at 9:30 AM on Zoom

Forgiveness Inside Out

Where does forgiveness come from? To whom is it given? What does it really mean to forgive someone? Are there some hurts that can’t or shouldn’t be forgiven? What about apology? Shouldn’t that be in the mix, too? Whatever forgiveness is, it’s almost the High Holy Days…Are you ready?

 

We’ll encounter all these questions and more in Rabbi Neil’s three-part discussion in preparation for the High Holy Days, “Forgiveness Inside Out.” Come join in what is sure to be a lively conversation! Only three Wednesday sessions, all beginning at 6:30: August 30, September 6 and September 13. You may want to peruse “Forgive for Good” by Dr. Fred Luskin beforehand in as much as some of the approaches will be from this book (available on Apple Books). 

Zionism 101

Join Rabbi Alex to explore the many types of Zionism that existed before the State of Israel was founded in 1948. We will spend time explore Political, Revisionist, Religious, Binational, Labor Zionisms. We will conclude learning about Zionism & Anti-Zionism today and attempting to define the terms for ourselves. 

This is a great way to learn a bit of Israel’s history before our community trip in June 2024!  

Sundays on Zoom: 10/29, 11/19, 12/17, 1/21, 2/25, 3/17, 4/21
Closing Session In-Person: 5/19 @ Beth Shir Shalom, 12pm 

Are Reform Jews Commanded?

Remember the “Push-Me-Pull-You” from Dr. Doolittle? In case you don’t here’s a refresher:

Reform Jews have a “Push-Me-Pull-You” relationship with Judaism’s commandments. Do we do them? If so, why? Do we change them to fit our contemporary lifestyles and schedules? Do we light candles to mark the beginning of Shabbat? Do we keep kosher? Do we pray three times a day? Do we say the Shema morning and evening? Do we wear a kippah? A tallit? OY! OY! Which way to go! It’s a “Push-Me-Pull-You!” Help!

Rabbi Neil will help guide us through an exploration of the Reform movement’s sometimes fraught relationship with Judaism’s foundational principle of the commandments coming from God at Sinai. Come join in the Push-Me-Pull-You!