Adult Learning
For us, community is not just a vehicle for study, but also a result of learning together.
Check out our upcoming and ongoing Adult Learning opportunities below. All are available to Havurah Shalom members free of charge (a materials fee may apply) except where noted, and all will be held at Havurah Shalom. See our online calendar for last minute changes. Non-members are welcome – tuition and materials fees may apply. Non-members should register by email or call 503-248-4662.
Photo above was taken by Barbara Gundle.
Adult Learning & Exploration
Talmud Lite
We are studying a section from Tractate Brachot, which grapples with the order for familiar rituals, such as Kiddush and Havdalah and the washing of the hands – and how we lend structure to the passage of sacred time. Talmud Lite meets twice a month on Tuesdays, from 12:10 – 1:00 pm, at a downtown location. We study with the English translation, and no previous knowledge is required. Led by Rabbi Joey. To learn more, contact Rabbi Joey.
For specific dates, see our online calendar.
Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation
We will gather on Tuesdays, from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm, to find some moments of quiet. We’ll start with a brief teaching or song, then sit and walk together in silence. This is for folks with experience in meditation and those with curiosity but no experience. Led by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner & Michelle Bobowick.
For specific dates, see our online calendar.
Davenology 101
It’s one thing to be able to pray, but it’s another to lead others in prayer. Like driving, there are routes to choose and considerations for accommodating other passengers on the journey. With GPS you can get where you need to go without realizing where you are. As leaders, we need to do more. We’ll go over options for how to lead with both spiritual impact and a sense of direction. And we’ll learn some of the melodies that help us appreciate the ride. Taught by Ilene Safyan & Rabbi Joey. Register by Nov. 1.
Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2016, 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Being Jewish Makes a World of Difference: Equity, Privilege and Otherness
First we will scrutinize biblical and Talmudic insights about inclusivity. The rabbis had much to say about privilege and bias. Then we will address issues of privilege, race, culture, identity differences, and otherness in our communities and daily interactions. Taught by Rabbi Joey & an outside educator. Register by Nov. 7.
Wednesday, Nov. 30; Dec. 7; Dec. 14. 7:00 - 8:30 pm &
Tuesday, Jan 3; Jan 10; Jan 17 7:00-9:00 pm
Trope
This class is for Havurahniks who want to read Torah or refresh their trope skills. Beginning Hebrew reading skill required. The goal is for each student to learn how to chant a short aliyah from the Torah. Taught by Ken Lerner.
Wednesdays, April 19 & 26; May 3 & 10, 2017, 7:00 – 8:30 pm
A Bird’s Eye View of Jewish History
Have you ever wondered how and why Jewish people dispersed from one small land in the Middle East to live in every part of the globe? Or what brought your ancestors to live in the United States? Using illustrations and maps, we will learn the themes, geography, and journey of the Jewish people. In advance, please obtain Barnavi’s A Historical Atlas of the Jewish People from the Time of the Patriarchs to the Present. Taught by Roger Brewer. Register by Jan 4.
Wednesdays, Jan. 11, 18 & 25; Feb. 1, 2017; 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Our New President & Congress’ Policy on Israeli-Palestinian Issues
J Street will offer an afternoon program at Havurah to examine the policy toward Israel and the peace process by the newly elected President and Congress. A speaker will lead the program and open the session to discussion. Organized by Nancy Becker. Register by Jan. 23.
Monday, Feb. 6, Time TBA
Revenge, Justice, Survival & Celebration
Our joyous and beloved Purim and Pesach traditions are mixed with strains of revenge. Complicated questions echo throughout our texts and celebrations: what are the lines between revenge and justice, survival and subjugating others, self-love and selfishness? The Mekhilta, an ancient midrash collection, which tends to be more universalist and human-centered than most, will be our starting place. Taught by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner. Register by Feb. 22.
Wednesdays, March 8, 15, 22, 2017; 7:00 – 8:30 pm
