Lifelong learning is a cherished value and tradition here at Congregation B’nai Israel. Our adult education program engages our learners in a wide variety of formats and compelling topics, including Hebrew language, Jewish texts, tradition, values, music, ritual, Israel and contemporary topics. Check out the current line up here.
We strive to offer single and multi-session courses that appeal to all ages and stages, at varied times during the week to enable everyone to participate. If there is a topic that interests you … or something you want to learn … please let us know!
Recurring Classes – Weekly
The Story of the State of Israel Through Its Music
75th Birthday Edition!
Monday Mornings May 1-May 22 // 9:30 am // Zoom
In this 4-session module, we will be celebrating Israel’s 75th birthday as we focus on the birth of the State of Israel and its first decade. The War of Independence burst out anew on May 15th 1948, and did not end until March 1949. During the war, the State was securing its foundations and welcoming immigrants, many survivors of the Shoah. We will learn about this first generation of an independent Israel through the music that tells their story.
Each song presented will be accompanied by a commentary that includes the story behind the song. We will review song lyrics in translation as we explore their context and meaning.
We’ll be listening mostly to both original and updated versions of these songs, and we’ll gain knowledge of leading vocalists and groups – becoming familiar with a ‘Who’s Who’ in the history of Israeli song.
To join us on Zoom, click HERE
Meeting ID: 846 9767 0924// Passcode: CBI
About Lecture Leader Len Hausman:
Len Hausman has had an interest in the music of Israel since his youth. He completed a year of training in Israel toward being a teacher in the diaspora, sponsored by the World Zionist Organization. He has enjoyed teached teaching on a range of subjects at CBI and other venues. Professionally, Len is a psychologist with practices in Greenwich Village, New York and locally.
The Upright Path: How Pirkei Avot (Ethics of Our Ancestors) Can Transform Our Lives
Thursday Mornings from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Zoom, beginning November 10th.
Join us weekly on Thursday mornings as we study the commentaries of Rabbis Tamar Elad Applebaum and Gordon Tucker on Pirkei Avot and aspire to instill the lessons of this timeless text into our lives.
This course will be taught by Rabbi Ari Isenberg .
To register, please email Joi Noel HERE.
Click here for class materials!
Talmud Class
Monday Evenings from 7:30-9:00 p.m. on Zoom, beginning October 24th
This semester ~ Origins of the Jewish Prayer
Study the Origins of Jewish Prayer as it is discussed through the Talmud with Rabbi Akiba Lubow.
Recurring Classes – Monthly
Chanting Circle with Len Hausman
Sunday Afternoons from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Zoom
Special Programs
Ongoing Opportunities
Hebrew Reading ~ At Any Level
Whether you want to learn the aleph-bet, become proficient in a particular prayer or a few prayers, improve your Torah reading, or lead a service, Rabbi Julie will meet with you for individual 30-minute sessions at a mutually convenient time to study on your own terms.
Introduction to Torah/Haftarah Chanting
Reach out to Cantor Lorna Wallach to arrange a time for private lessons learning Torah or Haftarah trope. She will work with you until you are ready to confidently chant from the Torah for Shabbat or a simcha.
Please contact Rabbi Julie to discuss your interests!