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!
Intro to Judaism
Wednesdays, 7:00–8:30 pm, January 17–May 29
Several Reform synagogues on the North Shore of Chicago are coming together to offer another year of Introduction to Judaism. Class will be held in person at BJBE in Deerfield, Am Shalom, and NSCI in Glencoe, Sukkat Shalom in Wilmette, and Jeremiah in Northfield, which both invites participants to experience a range of Reform Jewish communities on the North Shore and also builds close connections with all of our participating clergy. The class is grounded in the URJ's Introduction to Judaism curriculum, and together we will explore some of the essential pillars of Jewish life, including Jewish texts, beliefs and values, holidays and rituals, and history. Rabbi Lily Goldstein, Cantor Julie Staple, Rabbi Jacob Leizman, Rabbi Brian Immerman, Rabbi Ally Tick Brill, and Rabbi Rachel Heaps will share in instructing the course on a rotating basis. Reach out to Rabbi Leizman with any questions.
Hebrew Classes: POSTPONED TILL FALL 2024
Hebrew in a Hurry (New Learners)
Led by Rabbi Shira H. Joseph
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!
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 emeritus.
Hebrew Reading Like a Snail
Led by Rabbi Shira H. Joseph
Learn how to read prayers more fluently while learning basic vocabulary and prayer history. To participate, you might remember most of your Hebrew letters and vowels. We’ll start with V’ahavta and move to Kaddish.
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 emeritus.
greatest Hits of the Talmud
Mondays, 1:00–2:00 pm, Feb. 12–May 20 (no class on 2/19, 3/25, 4/1, 4/22, and 4/29)
Led by Rabbi Wendi Geffen
Study a selection of the most well-known or important sugiyot (talmudic discussions) scattered throughout a variety of talmudic tractates. No experience necessary. Texts will be provided.
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.
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.
