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!
greatest Hits of the Talmud – Fall 2023 Session
Mondays, 1:00–2:00 pm, Oct. 16 – Dec. 18 (no class Nov. 20)
Join Rabbi Geffen in studying 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.
Hot Topics: What Does Judaism Have to Say About …
Select Tuesdays from 7:00–8:30 pm at NSCI
November 7th – The Jewish Ethics of War
November 28th – Artificial Intelligence
December 19th – The Death Penalty
Learn what Jewish wisdom has to say about the “hot topics” of our time. Each session focusing on one topic viewed through the lens of traditional Jewish texts (Torah, Talmud, Post-Halachic Literature, and Commentaries). The classes do not reflect any particular political point of view, nor is their intention to implicitly or explicitly endorse any particular political party or candidate in any way. As such, you may encounter viewpoints from Jewish tradition of which you were previously unaware and/or about which you may find personally challenging. Bring your curiosity and open mind!
Stories for Seekers
Wednesdays, November 29th, December 6th, and 13th, 12:00–1:00 pm on Zoom
In 1947, renowned Jewish philosopher Martin Buber gave a series of radio lectures in which he told and interpreted a series of Jewish spiritual parables. These lectures turned into a brief and lovely book called The Ways of Humanity: According to Chasidic Teaching, with a brand new English translation from one of Rabbi Leizman’s favorite rabbinical school teachers, Rabbi Bernard Mehlman. Discuss these widely accessible and deeply poignant stories that offer insights into life for all who are open to them.
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.
