Adult learning and gathering
Welcome to a rich offering of adult learning opportunities here at NSCI. Whether you are curious about a topic and have never come to a class, come to everything we offer, or somewhere in between, jump in for a one-time program or an ongoing course of study. From basics of prayer and Judaism to Talmud study to creating new ritual, to delving into deeper meanings of prayer to exploring questions of Jewish identity and faith, to chanting sacred text, we’ve got it—and so much more.
We offer learning in our NSCI building, out in the community, and on the road, too. We teach, welcome stellar visiting teachers, and proudly partner with wonderful community organizations. Come by yourself or bring a friend or a family member. We can’t wait to learn with you!
Hebrew Classes:
Hebrew in a Hurry (New Learners)
Mondays, September 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th, 12:00 - 1:00 pm on Zoom
Led by Rabbi Shira H. Joseph
Cost: $72 for congregants; $180 for non-congregants
Finally ready to learn Hebrew? Here’s your chance! Study with an expert Hebrew teacher over Zoom. In four sessions, you can learn the Hebrew alphabet and begin to read Hebrew! Yalla! Let’s go! Participants will receive a bag of materials and supplies before the first class. Confidential scholarship available for NSCI congregants; please contact Rabbi Greene.
Rabbi Shira H. Joseph was ordained by Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion and holds an MA in Secondary Education with a specialty in special needs. She served as the spiritual leader of Congregation Sha’aray Shalom in Massachusetts from 2003–2022 and is now the temple’s first Emerita.
Learn High Holy Day Hebrew Prayers
Mondays, September 9th, 23rd, and 30th, 7:00 - 8:00 pm on Zoom
Led by Rabbi Shira H. Joseph
This course is $72 for congregants and $180 for non-congregants.
Avinu Malkeinu, Al Chet, Kol Nidrei … Come brush up on your Hebrew reading skills and practice some of the best-known passages of the High Holy Day prayers. Basic knowledge of alef-bet and the vowels is necessary (even if you forget a few letters and read like a snail).
Rabbi Shira H. Joseph was ordained by Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion and holds an MA in Secondary Education with a specialty in special needs. She served as the spiritual leader of Congregation Sha’aray Shalom in Massachusetts from 2003–2022 and is now the temple’s first Emerita.
adult b’nei mitzvah: a life-changing journey
The current session of Adult B'nei Mitzvah has begun. Please reach out if you are interested in being added to the next group.
Adult B’nei Mitzvah is a journey of learning and community culminating in a group service led by our students who read Torah and share their thoughts. Class meets two hours/week on Monday nights during the school year, one hour of Hebrew and one of prayer, holiday, theology, and other topics. Adult B’nei Mitzvah draws students from varying backgrounds. Learn and explore your beliefs—you’ll read and study, and reflect on where you are and what you think. It’s a wonderful opportunity to get to know others in our community with whom you might never have met.
Interested in learning more about it? Rabbi Greene is thrilled to speak with you! If you are interested, please contact Jennifer for more information.
Learning Opportunities from the Union for Reform Judaism
The URJ offers many incredible learning opportunities for individuals of all ages. If you're interested in any of the classes listed below or to learn more about what URJ has to offer, click here.
- Just Add Water: An Introduction to Mikveh
- Being an Ally for LGBTQ+ Loved Ones
- Learn to Read Hebrew (for adults)
- Introduction to Judaism (online)
For the recordings from past programs, click here. For learning resources, click here. To learn about the difference between a mitzvah and a Simcha, read here.
