Creating opportunities for meaningful, purposeful and relevant Jewish exploration.
Adult Engagement + Learning
The Center for Jewish Engagement and Learning offers a multitude of learning opportunities and classes for adult learners of all ages and levels. Contact Susan Schwartz directly for information about upcoming Hebrew classes, Intro to Judaism, Mussar cohorts, and Wise Aging groups. Or, reach out to explore creating a new learning opportunity through The Center for Jewish Engagement and Learning.
Susan Schwartz
Director, Adult Engagement
Classes
Introduction to Judaism
Instructors: Board of Rabbis and Cantors
Day/Time: Wednesdays, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Fee: $72/Session
In collaboration with the Buffalo Board of Rabbis and Cantors, this exceptional course is designed for:
- Couples considering intermarriage
- Individuals interested in conversion or learning more about Judaism
- Jews wishing to learn more about their religion and history
The Jewish calendar and life cycles, worship and beliefs are all explored. In addition, the Bible, Rabbinic literature, anti-Semitism, the Holocaust, Zionism and the State of Israel are discussed.
Alef-Bet: Beginning Hebrew
Instructor: Michal Lewis
Time: Wednesdays, 7:45pm – 9:00pm
Fee: Fee: $175/Session (books purchased separately)
This basic introductory Hebrew reading course is for beginners interested in learning the Hebrew alphabet, grammar and vocabulary. During the process of teaching the letters and vowels, students will start reading prayers for Shabbat, synagogue services and traditional blessings. The goal of the course is for students to become familiar enough with Hebrew to be able to follow along in the prayer book when they attend any Jewish service.
Intermediate Hebrew
Instructor: Michal Lewis
Time: Wednesdays, 6:15pm – 7:30pm
Fee: Fee: $175/Session (plus one-time $60 for new curriculum)
This course is for students who already know the Hebrew alphabet and can read several Hebrew words and phrases. Students will review prior learning and be taught additional Hebrew prayers for Shabbat and holidays. The history of the Hebrew language and structure will also be explored, in addition to modern Hebrew vocabulary related to holidays, traditions and Israel. We will be using a new language curriculum from Ulpan Or – iHebrew which encourages individual learning at a student’s own pace and at their Hebrew level.
Session 1 (14 weeks, September 2018 – January 2019)
September 26
October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
November 7, 14, 28 (no class 11/21)
December 5, 12, 19
January 9, 16
Session 2 – (14 weeks, January 2019 – May 2019)
January 23, 30
February 6, 13, 27 (no class 2/20 – February break)
March 6, 13, 27 (no class 3/20 – Purim)
April 3, 10, 17 (no class 4/24 – Passover)
May 1, 8, 15
General information for all:
All classes take place at the JCC Benderson Building: 2640 North Forest Road, Getzville; 2nd Floor
For more information, contact Susan Schwartz, Director of Adult Engagement, Center for Jewish Engagement and Learning: susan@buffalojewishfederation.org
Programs
Mussar for Moms
Mussar, a Jewish spiritual practice, provides tools for living a more balanced life. If you are a working mom in your 30s or 40s, you probably have more on your ‘to-do’ list than time! But, many have found that taking time to reflect, be more mindful and grateful, has helped provide more balance. If you are intrigued, consider joining us for a 5-month long Jewish learning journey with other women.
Mussar for Moms will meet on Sunday evenings twice a month from November – March.
TO REGISTER/FOR MORE INFORMATION: email Susan Schwartz susan@buffalojewishfederation.org.
Mussar for Couples
Mussar, a Jewish spiritual practice, provides tools for living a more balanced life. This Jewish learning experience is designed for couples where one partner identifies as Jewish and the other partner identifies within a different faith. Mussar for Couples will be open to partners at any stage of committed relationship regardless of age. Participants will be exposed to Jewish thought and ideas and the flow of the Jewish calendar.
Mussar for Couples will meet one Sunday a month from November – June.
TO REGISTER/FOR MORE INFORMATION: email Susan Schwartz susan@buffalojewishfederation.org