Lifelong Learning Committee
Lifelong Learning Committee
Mission
The Adult Learning Committee develops and helps implement adult learning activities at Havurah. Adult learning falls into three broad categories: Expressive (hands-on, experiential learning, like cooking or constructing ritual garments); Culture (classes in history and literature); and Spiritual Practice (prayer, Hebrew, Torah study). Members of the committee reach out and listen to the interests of the community, mindful to be responsive to changing needs and interests over time. We offer regularly scheduled foundational classes, along with other creative learning opportunities.
Do you have an idea for a class? Or a skill you'd like to share? Please contact Adult Learning Committee Chair Eve Berry or Education Director Deborah Eisenbach-Budner by April for classes that will start in the upcoming year’s programming, which begins in the autumn.
Adult Learning
Our community offers us the opportunity to learn together. Havurah's adult learning opportunities are available to all members free of charge, though a materials fee may apply. See our online calendar for details. Non-members are welcome, though tuition and materials fees may apply.
Adult Learning in 2019-20
Please check our online calendar for updates and to register.
Hashiveinu: Musical and Spiritual Preparation for the Days of Returning
We will interweave singing High Holiday melodies with reflecting upon and discussing the themes and meaning of this sacred time. Facilitated by Rabbi Benjamin and others. 7-8:30 pm, Thursdays, Sept. 12, 19, 26
Music and Meaning in the Shabbat Morning Service
A walk through the Shabbat morning service, focusing on the meaning and resonance of prayers we generally sing at Havurah. Taught by Rabbi Benjamin. 7-8:30 pm, Wednesdays, Oct. 30; Jan. 8, 15
Familiar Food That Is Full of Surprises (and usually also garlic)
Join us to learn the fascinating history behind old and new Jewish foods. We’ll discuss, cook and (best of all) eat. Taught by David Feder. 10-11:30 am, Sundays, Nov. 3; Dec. 1
Moroccan Flavors of Jewish Cooking
An introduction to the broad scope of Moroccan Jewish cooking in in its cultural and historical context. Participants will also prepare a simple salad often served on Shabbat and other festive occasions. Taught by Oren Kosansky. 3-5 pm, Sunday, Nov. 17
Tallit Class
Would you like to create your own tallit? Then please join our class as we learn to create a tallit, tie the tzitzit and learn of the meaning of the gematria wound and knotted into the holy fringe. 10:30-12 pm, Sundays, Nov. 17; Dec. 8
InterPlay Torah Study: Fun as a Spiritual Practice!
Step into the Living Torah! Beginning in text, we’ll use simple, incremental forms of “sacred play” to find and express our own meaning and connections. Facilitated by Cassandra Sagan. 7-9 pm, Tuesdays, Jan. 7, 14, 21; Feb. 4, 11, 18
Jewish Power and Powerlessness
“They tried to kill us, we survived, let’s… talk about it.” The 20th century provided examples of extreme Jewish powerlessness and unheard-of Jewish power as well. We’ll break down the longer history, from Philo to philo-Semitism. Taught by David Feder. 10-11:30 am, Sundays, Jan. 12, 19, 26
Musical Theater New Works Workshop
Join us as we workshop a new musical—Freedom: The Untold Story of Moses. This will culminate in a staged reading performance. Facilitated by Chari Smith. 7-8:30 pm, Mondays, Jan. 13, 20, 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24; Mar. 2, 16, 30; Performances Sunday, Apr. 5, 2 pm and 7 pm
Reconstructing Judaism: An Exploration
What does it mean that Havurah is a member of Reconstructing Judaism? We will explore values and approaches that have inspired and guided the movement. Taught by Rabbi Benjamin. 7-8:30 pm, Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19
Writing Group
An amateur writing group exploring our interest in memoir. We’ll generate short pieces each week, culminating in a Friday Oneg for the Havurah community. Facilitated by David Kertzner. 7-9 pm, Thursdays, Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27; Mar. 5, 12 and 19; Oneg and public reading Friday, Mar. 20
Extreme Parenting
A workshop/support group for parents of young adults struggling with mental or physical health conditions, disabilities, addiction or history of trauma. Facilitated by Laura Orgel, psychologist and child/family therapist, and Deborah Eisenbach-Budner. 7-8:30 pm, Mondays, Feb. 10, 24
2000 Years of Jewish Understandings of Slavery and Freedom: Preparing for Passover
We will look at themes of freedom and slavery throughout the Torah narratives, 600 years of haggadot, the construction of the seder by the rabbis, and the liberation of gender that has marked the last 40 years of creative Jewish seders. Led by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner. 7-8:30 pm, Wednesdays, Feb. 26; Mar. 4, 11, 18
Rethinking Israel/Palestine
We’ll address questions about the origins of Zionism in Eastern Europe and about confrontations between Israel and its neighbors. Taught by Prof. Joel Beinin. 7-8:30 pm, Tuesdays, Mar. 3, 10, 17, 31; Apr. 7, 14, 21, 28; May 5, 12
Intergenerational Conflict and Sexuality in Yiddish Poetry
Using sexuality as a focal point, we will see how Jewish language and culture are used in early 20th century Yiddish literature to explore themes of generational conflict, identity and cultural transition. Led by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner. 12-1 pm, Thursdays, Apr. 30; May 7, 14
Va’ani Tefilati: A Prayer Leadership Workshop
For those interested in leading tefilah (prayer), or who already lead, we will cover details of language, melody and choreography and also explore the craft of attuning to and guiding the community’s energy as a leader of prayer. Facilitated by Rabbi Benjamin. 7-8:30 pm, Wednesdays, May 6, 13, 20
Israeli and Palestinian Literature
We will read four works of fiction that offer a perspective on Israel/Palestine, centering the human dimension and reminding us of the vibrancy of both modern Hebrew and Palestinian Arab culture. Taught by Prof. Joel Beinin. 7-8:30pm, Tuesdays, May 19, 26; June 2, 9, 16, 23
Mikvah Learning Sessions
While visiting the community mikvah, Rachel’s Well, we’ll learn about this ritual bath of “living waters” sourced from rain. Led by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner and community members. Dates TBD
Mon, March 18 2024
8 Adar II 5784
Need Help? If you are a Havurah member in need of help, log in to find resources here.
Havurah Updates
Hineinu: Purim is coming!! and lots more.
Havurah Purim Celebration
6 pm to 8 pm on Saturday, March 23 at Havurah Shalom
Come as you aren't! All are welcome! Fun f
Upcoming Events
-
Monday ,
MarMarch 18 , 2024
Monday, Mar 18th 7:00p to 8:30p
-
Monday ,
MarMarch 18 , 2024
Monday, Mar 18th 7:00p to 8:15p
For all ages! This class is for anyone who has ever wanted to stage a play. As a group we’ll figure out how to retell the story of Queen Esther dramatically in a way that’s relevant for our times, and then perform that play on Purim for the Havurah Shalom congregation. Over four sessions, we’ll explore what makes good theater, how to write a script and a song, and then turn our crazy ideas into a fully staged production. Actors, writers, artists, and musicians, no matter what your age or experience, this is your chance to show off your talents, create a captivating theater experience for your community, and have fun! Join in anytime, even if you've missed sessions! Taught by Karen Polinsky. -
Tuesday ,
MarMarch 19 , 2024
Tuesday, Mar 19th 6:30p to 8:00p
-
Wednesday ,
MarMarch 20 , 2024
Wednesday, Mar 20th 6:30p to 8:30p
-
Wednesday ,
MarMarch 20 , 2024
Wednesday, Mar 20th 7:00p to 8:30p
Facilitated by Rabbi Benjamin. In this class, we’ll be exploring various ways in which the Divine is represented and imagined in Jewish tradition. Beyond simply the intellectual, our lens will be more one of spiritual reflection and practice. In other words: As we encounter and interact with the metaphors that the tradition offers for experiencing and connecting with God/Spirit/Life, what do we notice within our hearts and minds? How do particular images shape our consciousness and perception? As a guide for this exploration we will read Rabbi Toba Spitzer’s book, God is Here, which should be purchased for the class (contact Rabbi Benjamin for a free copy if needed). RSVP here by March 1. -
Thursday ,
MarMarch 21 , 2024
Thursday, Mar 21st (All day)
Click to learn how to submit your contributions to our monthly newsletter. The deadline for the April 2024 Hakol is Thursday, March 21. -
Thursday ,
MarMarch 21 , 2024
Thursday, Mar 21st 7:00p to 8:30p
Join the monthly meeting of the Racial Justice Committee to learn what we are up to and how you can be involved. Join us even if you haven't joined in the past. New members always welcome! Please note: While Racial Justice Committee Monthly Meetings normally meet on second Thursdays, this meeting will take place on March 21st. -
Saturday ,
MarMarch 23 , 2024
Shabbat, Mar 23rd 10:00a to 12:00p
Led by community members and Rabbi Benjamin, this service includes davening, Torah reading, and discussion. For Zoom link (Zoom Room Aleph), email info@havurahshalom.org. -
Saturday ,
MarMarch 23 , 2024
Shabbat, Mar 23rd 6:00p to 8:00p
All are invited to celebrate Purim at Havurah Shalom! Havurahniks: Check out our open volunteer roles for the Purim party (from decorating to teen helpers to bringing potluck snack items) and consider making Purim delicious by making hamantashen for the bake-off! -
Monday ,
MarMarch 25 , 2024
Monday, Mar 25th 6:00p to 7:30p