There are multiple opportunities for lifelong learning at Temple Emanu-El!
Temple Emanu-El provides adult education opportunities for those interested in expanding their understanding of Reform Judaism and in expanding relationships with other congregants. Weekly Saturday morning and Wednesday afternoon Torah study, led by the clergy, staff, and congregants, have been a popular venue for learning. Every other year, we have offered an Adult Hebrew class, which has led to multiple b’nai mitzvot celebrations. Rabbi Wright leads a thought-provoking lecture series annually. He teaches classes that focus on Jewish History, 19th Century Jewish Movements, and Theology. Rabbi Wright also teaches a popular 12-part Introduction to Judaism Course for both members and those in our greater community interested in learning more about our faith and traditions.
Due to COVID 19, all classes will be held virtually until we are able to safely be together in person.
Introduction to Judaism – Tuesday’s, January 5 – April 27, 6:00 PM
No class on January 19, February 16, March 16, March 30, & April 20
Join us for an engaging 12-session course for anyone interested in exploring Jewish life. Open to all, this course is perfect for interfaith couples, those rearing Jewish children, spiritual seekers, individuals considering a “return” – (conversion), and Jews who want a meaningful adult Jewish learning experience. Our programs welcome people from all backgrounds. Topics include holidays, life cycle celebrations, theology and core beliefs, prayer, Torah, history, antisemitism, and the Holocaust, Zionism, and Israel, the North American Jewish experience, and the tapestry of the Jewish people today. Click here to register.
Jewish Liturgy 101 with Cantor Wittner
Tuesday’s, May 4, 11, & 25 at 6:00 PM
What does our liturgy mean? Why do we say the Amidah every day, three times a day? What is the v’ahavta all about? Jewish liturgy includes reciting, chanting, or singing texts; using ritual objects and wearing ritual garments; performing choreographed physical actions and gestures, and reciting blessings. Although Jewish liturgy includes far more than just the texts that are recited, the texts themselves provide a valuable way of understanding what Jewish prayer and worship is all about. Join us for a three-part series with Cantor Wittner to answer these questions and more in Jewish Liturgy 101. Click here to register.
Blessing before the Study of Torah:
Transliteration: Baruch atah Adonai eloheynu melech ha-olam a-sher kid-shanu b’mitz-votav vitzi-vanu la-asok b-divray torah
English: Blessed are You, Eternal our God, Ruler of the Universe, who sanctifies us with Your Mitzvot and commands us to engage in the study of Torah.
Torah Study meets Saturday mornings at 9:00 a.m. and Wednesdays at noon. This is a very special learning experience, lead by clergy, staff, and congregants, with the opportunity for input and thought-provoking discussion.
Join us via Zoom at one of the following links:
- Saturday morning: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86458041679 (email monika@ourtemple.org for the password)
- Wednesday afternoon: https://zoom.us/j/661751570
Introduction to Judaism – Tuesday’s, January 5 – April 27, 6:00 PM
Transliteration: Baruch atah Adonai eloheynu melech ha-olam a-sher kid-shanu b’mitz-votav vitzi-vanu la-asok b-divray torah