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Journey to Judaism

An intro course for all things Jewish

Discovering or Rediscovering Judaism

Class begins Thursday, Dec. 5th at 6:30 PM

Our Journey to Judaism program provides some of the essential elements needed for a foundation in Jewish basics. By design, it is not strictly a "conversion" course, but is required for anyone seeking conversion. During our 22 weeks together, we will review many topics that relate to Jewish theology, tradition, sacred texts and peoplehood. However, it is impossible for any one class to encapsulate the depth and breadth of Jewish wisdom, history and tradition, and, therefore, each student is asked to begin the course with an awareness that this program is by conception and implementation just a stepping stone into greater Jewish study and practice. We can provide, at best, an outline to the vastness of Jewish law, knowledge, literature, observance, and contemporary concerns. Jewish learning and living is a journey, not a destination. We are so honored that you want to begin that journey with us!

Because most of us learn best by doing, students are encouraged to actively participate in as many aspects of Jewish life as possible. Religious services, lectures, social action, community programs and Shabbat/holiday observances will help students gain a deeper understanding of Jewish life and the Jewish community.  

 

I look forward to learning, studying and growing together.

 

Shalom u'vracha, peace and blessings,

Rabbi Sydney 

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Metal plate with matzah or matza and Passover Haggadah on a vintage wood background presen

Course Outline

  • Week 1:  WELCOME AND COURSE INTRODUCTION

    • During this class, we will spend some time getting to know one another and learn about each other's motivations for taking this class.​

  • Week 2-3: WHAT IS A JEW?  WHAT IS JUDAISM?

    • Communal definitions and self-definitions. What does it mean to be Jewish? Who’s in and who’s out? 

  • Week 4-5: GOD

    •  A glimpse at the diverse Jewish views on God throughout the ages.

  • Week 6-7: TORAH AND TALMUD

    • The textual sources of Jewish wisdom.

  • Week 8-9: JEWISH DENOMINATIONS

    •  Reform, Conservative, Orthodox and everything in between.

  • Week 10-11: PUBLIC JEWISH SPIRITUALITY

    • Prayer and ritual observance.

  • Week 12-13: PRIVATE JEWISH SPIRITUALITY

    •   The Jewish home and family.

  • Week 14-15: HOLIDAY CUSTOMS

    • Jewish Calendar and High Holidays.

  • Week 16-17: HOLIDAY CUSTOMS CONTINUED

    • Shabbat, festivals and minor holidays.

  • Week 18-19: THE JEWISH LIFE CYCLE

    • birth, coming of age, marriage, conversion and death.

  • Week 20-21: ANTI-SEMITISM, THE HOLOCAUST, AND THE JEWISH STATE

    • Classical and emerging definitions of Anti-Semitism, ​the history of Jew hatred culminating in the Holocaust, and the need for a Jewish state.

  • Week 22: ASKING THE QUESTIONS AGAIN

    •  What is a Jew and What is Judaism?

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Course Registration

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