2023/24 Adult Education Programs
The History of Modern Zionism - taught by Rabbi Moshe Re’em
Starting: December 5, 2023, at Temple Beth El
Dates: December 5, 12, 19 January 2, 9, 16
Tuesdays 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Text: Daniel Gordis, Israel: A Concise History of a Nation Reborn
Have you been wondering: What is Zionism? How did the modern State of Israel come into being? What is the historical background of the current conflict between the Palestinians and Israel? This course is designed to provide you with some of the background necessary to begin to understand the complexity of the current crisis.
Introduction to Hebrew - taught by Rabbi Moshe Re’em
Starting: December 5, 2023, at Temple Beth El
Tuesdays 8:00-8:45 p.m.
Hebrew is an essential tool for unlocking the rich cultural background of the Jewish people. If you would like to learn Hebrew from the beginning so that you can read the prayerbook and decode simple Hebrew words, this course is for you! We will start from the basics (the Hebrew alphabet) and proceed until basic reading proficiency skills are achieved.
Prayer Learning and Leading - taught by Shari Spark
Starting January 8, 2023, at Temple Beth El
Mondays through January 29, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Prayer learners and aspiring leaders will gain an understanding of the words and context of tefillot, helping us frame the act of personally praying, as well as being able to use the vehicle of praying to support our davening community. Participating requires only your willingness to learn and a desire to engage in prayer with others. We’ll begin by exploring the prayers of the Torah Service. A basic knowledge of Hebrew is helpful, but not required
Chavurat Torah organized by Adina Re'em 
Every Saturday after Kiddush in the library! All are welcome to join in this weekly Torah study led by a rotation of group members. Our goal is to understand Torah on its own terms, enriching our perspective with methodologies of biblical scholarship and rabbinic commentaries.
GPS (Guided Prayer Service) with Shari Spark
In-person, Shabbat Mornings:
In each class, we will learn about a different aspect of Judaism related to our interaction with tefillah. We’ll finish each session with a bit of prayer practice to refine our skills.
Past Adult Education Class
Beginners Hebrew with Elaine Langer
If you have never learned Hebrew or long since forgotten your reading skills, AND if you wished you could decode the Hebrew siddur or keep up with your Hebrew school-age kids, then this course is for you! Learn the alef-beit and vowels in 8 lessons with easy-to-understand materials in a fun, relaxed environment.
Chanting the Torah with Shari Spark
In-person at Temple Beth El or on Zoom (hybrid). Participants can choose to join in person or Zoom. Link provided when you have joined the class.
Learn the basics on your way to becoming a Torah reader. Covering the functions of cantillation and how to apply them, we’ll take a beginner's dive into the beautiful and meaningful art of “leyning”. This class is meant for beginners who have never chanted AND those who want to refresh their skills. Basic Hebrew reading is required.
Coffee Talk with Shari Spark
A recurring class with “a shot” of study. Join Shari Spark for “On the Road from Purim to Pesach”, and explore the rituals that flow through our spring holidays.