Adult Education
Learning is a lifelong journey, and at Temple Beth-El, we offer engaging opportunities for adults to deepen their Jewish knowledge, explore spirituality, and build community.
From text study and Jewish history to current events, Hebrew, and guest lectures, our adult education programs are designed to inspire curiosity and connection at every stage of life.
*Pictured on the left, Rabbi Yael Karrie, who shared her experience of displacement in Israel and how photography can serve as a powerful tool for resilience, witnessing, and communal healing.
Limudim
לימודים
“To learn always”—reminding us that Jewish learning is a lifelong journey of curiosity, discovery, and connection.
Visiting Scholars
Temple Beth-El’s Adult Education program proudly hosts visiting scholars who bring fresh perspectives, deep expertise, and engaging teachings to our community. These special events offer unique opportunities to learn from renowned voices in Jewish thought, culture, and contemporary issues—enriching our understanding and inspiring meaningful conversation.
Israel Weekend with Joel Chasnoff | October 23-25
Comedian Joel Chasnoff — Barry Chasnoff's nephew, a former IDF lone soldier, and co-author of the National Jewish Book Award-winning Israel 201 — joins us for a full weekend on Israel. He'll lead a text study on the IDF's code of ethics, a session on the hidden wisdom in Hebrew words, and a candid conversation about Israel just days before its elections — plus a comedy night Saturday the 24th. Whether you love Israel, have questions about it, or wherever you stand — especially if you do — this weekend is for you.
Annual Rabbi Samuel Stahl Lecture | December 14 | 7pm
Presents Rabbi Angela Buchdahl
Senior Rabbi of Central Synagogue in New York City and a nationally recognized religious leader, Rabbi Angela Buchdahl is the first Asian American to be ordained as a cantor and rabbi in North America and the first woman to lead Central Synagogue in its 185-year history. She has been featured by the Today Show, NPR, and PBS, and her 2025 memoir, Heart of a Stranger, became an instant New York Times bestseller. We hope you’ll join us under the dome for this special evening of learning and inspiration.
Orly Erez Likhovski | December 20 | More coming soon
Join Orly Erez-Likhovski of the Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC) for Fighting for a Jewish and Democratic Israel: Challenges and Opportunities After the Israeli Elections. This timely conversation will explore the evolving landscape in Israel following the elections, including the challenges and opportunities facing efforts to advance religious freedom, equality, and democratic values. Hear insights from the front lines of IRAC’s work and learn about the issues shaping Israel’s future.
Rabbi Noam Katz | April 9-11 | More coming soon
Join us for a special Artist in Residence Weekend with Rabbi Noam Katz, a musician, composer, storyteller, and Jewish educator whose work inspires Jewish and interfaith communities. Through music, prayer, storytelling, and meaningful connection, Rabbi Katz brings Jewish tradition to life in an engaging and uplifting way. Come experience a weekend filled with song, learning, and community.
Adult Education Sunday Series
Select Sundays | 9:45-10:45am
On select Sundays while Religious School is in session, join us for our Adult Education Sunday Series—a chance to learn, connect, and explore something new.
September 27 | Simchat Torah Preview led by Rabbi Mara Nathan
Get ready for Simchat Torah with Rabbi Nathan and explore the meaning, traditions, and joy of this festive holiday.
November 15 | Shabbat Workshop led by Ellen Barshop
Deepen your connection to Shabbat with a practical and engaging workshop exploring ways to bring its traditions and meaning into your life.
January 10 | TBD with Adam Serwer
Adam Serwer is a staff writer at The Atlantic and is the author of the New York Times best-seller The Cruelty Is the Point.
January 31 | Raising Kids in a Digital World led by Dr. Laurel Bluntzer, Licensed Psychologist
Navigate the challenges of parenting in an increasingly digital world and explore thoughtful approaches to technology, screens, and kids.
February 28 | Hamantaschen Workshop led by Amy Strickland
Get ready for Purim with a hands-on workshop dedicated to everyone’s favorite three-cornered treat!
April 18 | Passover Workshop led by Rabbi Mara Nathan
Prepare for Passover with fresh ideas and meaningful insights to bring to your seder and holiday celebration.
Clergy Education Series
Rabbi Nathan | February 13, 20 & 27
More info coming soon.
Rabbi Falco | May 1, 8 & 22
More info coming soon.
Torah Study
Saturdays | 9:00–10:00am
Join us around the Torah table for a meaningful and thought-provoking study of the weekly Torah portion, led by a member of our clergy. Each session centers on a key question drawn from the parashah, inviting rich discussion and personal reflection. Together, we’ll explore the insights of classical and modern commentators—spanning centuries of Jewish thought—and bring them into conversation with our own contemporary experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned learner or new to Torah study, this welcoming and interactive space offers a chance to connect more deeply with our sacred texts, our tradition, and one another. Come with curiosity and leave with new perspectives.
Conversion Program
Temple Beth-El warmly welcomes individuals who are exploring Judaism and considering conversion. If you’re interested in beginning this meaningful journey, please fill out this form to learn more about our conversion process and discuss your path forward.
Conversion at Temple Beth-El includes:
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Completion of the Union for Reform Judaism’s Introduction to Judaism course
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Passing a basic Hebrew proficiency exam (recognition of Hebrew letters and vowels)
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Participation in Temple Beth-El’s Choosing Judaism conversion course (class schedules depend on interest and demand)
We are here to support you every step of the way as you explore and embrace Jewish life. Learn more about Conversion.
Past Adult Education Courses
Our past adult education offerings at Temple Beth-El have featured a rich variety of learning experiences, including thought-provoking classes led by our clergy, inspiring lectures from visiting scholars, and engaging presentations by renowned guest speakers. These programs have explored topics ranging from Jewish texts and history to contemporary issues, spirituality, and culture—providing meaningful opportunities for growth, connection, and discovery.