Studying in the Learning Center
“Study leads to all the commandments”--Adapted from Mishnah Peah 1:1
This is the quotation that is prominently displayed just as you enter our Learning Center, a quote that is significant in the culture of Beth Israel. The opportunities and choices for adult learning are evident throughout the year.
Below are some of our ongoing Adult Learning programs. We also offer additional one-time programming throughout the year. These programs are listed in our home page or on our events listing.
Torah Study
Saturday mornings, 9:30am
Our weekly hour rich study session where we debate the meaning of these ancient words. The Torah has been compared to a spiral. We return to the same stories at the same time each year and see how much we have changed. It is an invitation of discovering ourselves through the reading and studying of our people’s sacred text.
No prior knowledge required – All are welcome!
Read this week’s Torah Portion.
Chevruta
Rabbi Pincus and Rabbi Shaffer love the traditional Jewish method of one-on-one study known as Chevruta (partnership). This approach to learning is inviting, non-judgmental, and proves yet again that the Jewish people have always been well ahead of their time. If there is something you have always wanted to learn about but were afraid to ask, now’s the time!
Contact: Rabbi Michael Pincus, moc.liamgnull@sucnipibbar, 860-233-8215 x228
Contact: Rabbi Dena Shaffer, moc.liamgnull@reffahsibbar, 860-233-8215 x226
Lunch and Learn
Wednesdays, 12-1 pm with the Rabbis
Our Rabbis lead a one-hour study session on various topics. You can bring your own lunch. Drinks are provided.
Contact: Cheryl Goldberg, Rabbinical Administrator, gro.tcibcnull@grebdlogc or 860-233-8215 x224
See our events listing for the current topic.
Adult Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah
Adults may study independently with our clergy or in a small group.
Contact: Rabbi Michael Pincus, moc.liamgnull@sucnipibbar, 860-233-8215 x228.
Brotherhood Breakfasts
Brotherhood plans a monthly Breakfasts on select Sunday mornings, featuring a timely speaker and a light breakfast.
Brotherhood members prepare the breakfast. A small donation of your choice is welcome.
See our events listing for the next session.
Dr. Robert A. Kramer S.A.G.E. Programs • Seniors for Arts, Growth, and Education
S.A.G.E.meets every Tuesday. Every program is open to the public, and all ages are welcome.
The day starts at 10:15 am with an exercise program, followed at 11:15am by a provocative discussion group.
Lunch begins about 12:15pm. The cost is $5 for CBI members and $7 for guests.
Afternoon programs at 1pm are always intriguing and the best deal you will find anywhere—they are free!
S.A.G.E. always loves to see new faces, so if you work, take a break for lunch on Tuesdays; if you are retired, come and join this lively group!
See our events listing for the next session.
Contact: Libby and Julian Adler, co-chairs, at 860-236-4452.
Introduction to Judaism
Introduction to Judaism is open to the community. This course is offered every fall at Beth Israel and runs through to the following spring. Faculty includes all of the Greater Hartford Reform Rabbis. The curriculum for this 18 week class offers basic Hebrew, Jewish history, liturgy, holidays and life cycle events, as well as the Jewish perspective on spirituality, values, and community.
Contact: Cheryl Goldberg, Rabbinical Administrator, gro.tcibcnull@grebdlogc or 860-233-8215 x224
CBI Book Group
Our Book Group meets on the first Wednesday of every month at 7:15pm.
Our members include both men and women who read and discuss books with a Jewish interest.
See our events listing for the next session. 2011-2012 CBI Book Group Schedule (pdf format)
Contact: Jane Zande, gro.tcibcnull@ednazj, 860-233-8215 x230.