One of the greatest rabbis in Jewish history is Rabbi Akiva. He lived in the years immediately following the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem--a time of harsh Roman rule. Rabbi Akiva is famous for many teachings, but most of all, he is known for his Jewish journey. You see, Rabbi Akiva did not start learning about Judaism until the age of forty. Though he knew he was Jewish, he had never really investigated his Jewish heritage. In middle age, Akiva took an introduction to Judaism course to reconnect with his Jewish identity. Today, we continue that tradition of learning to reestablish our connection with Judaism and the Jewish people. Beginning in January, Temple Emanu-El is going to offer an Introduction to Judaism course.
Introduction to Judaism courses are not only for people pursuing conversion to Judaism, though many people do enroll if they are interested in formalizing their Jewish identity. This is also the perfect series for interfaith partners looking to deepen their Jewish knowledge, or for Jews looking to reconnect with their Jewish heritage and identity. There are also those who will love this course because they are spiritual seekers who are just interested in learning more about Judaism as a culture and a religion.
The participants in our Introduction to Judaism course have various backgrounds and experiences with Judaism, but everyone shares the desire to deepen their knowledge of Judaism and the Jewish people for themselves or their family.
Maybe you know an interfaith couple who wants to introduce Judaism to their partner from a different religious background. Maybe you’re part of an interfaith family getting ready to celebrate your child becoming bar or bat mitzvah and you want to learn more about Judaism. Or, maybe you are reading this and are ready to make the intentional choice to formalize your relationship with Judaism through conversion.
Please encourage anyone you may know who might benefit from this sort of course to register here. Our series, taught by Rabbi Spike, Rabbi Rachael, and me, takes place on Tuesdays from 6:15-8:15 pm beginning on January 7th and concluding on April 14th. Tuition for the course is $180 for an individual and $216 for a couple. If you have any questions, give me a call or send me an email!
L’shalom | In Peace,
Rabbi Max
