Weekly Life Long Learning
Chevrah Torah (Torah Study) Saturday Morning
9:00am in the Library
In Judaism, the study of our sacred texts is considered an act towards Divine Connection on par with prayer. It is rare that one has the time to be “spiritually selfish,” meaning to take the time to further one’s own spiritual development. Chevrah Torah is an opportunity to explore, struggle and delve in a nurturing and intimate environment.
Hosted in the intimate setting of our library, surrounded by learners of every age and various backgrounds, our Torah study lifts up our sacred stories to examine the existential and timeless societal quandaries of the human condition. No formal knowledge of Judaism or Hebrew is necessary; every study session is made accessible through commentary and translation.
Classes Begin August 2025
All classes are in-person only.
From Sinai to Us:
Insights on Receiving the Torah
Sunday, August 24, 2025
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Max Miller
Where does the Torah come from? Explore the origins of the Torah through traditional lenses and scientific methods.
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Job: Why do bad things happen
to good people?
Sunday, September 7, 2025
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Max Miller
One of the biggest mysteries in life: why do the righteous suffer? For thousands of years, humanity has turned to the Book of Job for answers. We will examine this classic text to better understand a Jewish approach to suffering.
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Jonah:
A Whale of a Time
Sunday, September 14, 2025
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Max Miller
Jonah is the reluctant prophet. Every other prophet was eager to accept God’s charge, everyone except Jonah. We will better understand Jonah as the most relatable of all the prophets.
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Sukkot:
Sacred Tradition or Pagan Parallels
Sunday, October 5, 2025
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Rachael Miller
This class explores the origins and significance of Sukkot, examining whether its traditions are rooted in sacred Jewish practices or influenced by pagan rituals.
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Jewish Creation Narratives:
Echoes of Eden
Sunday, October 19, 2025
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Rachael Miller
This class delves into the Jewish creation narratives, exploring the themes and symbolism found in the stories from the garden of Eden.
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Beyond the Ark:
Hidden Stories in the Torah
Sunday, October 26, 2025
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Rachael Miller
This class uncovers lesser-known narratives within the Torah, revealing the stories we “don’t tell” and why you may have missed them in Sunday School.
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Hope Amid Havoc:
Messianism and Disaster in Judaism
Sunday, November 2, 2025
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Spike Anderson
In times of turmoil and uncertainty, the Jewish tradition offers profound insights through the lens of messianism. Explore how the concept of hope in the face of disaster serves as a guiding light for communities, fostering resilience and unity.
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Sacred Decisions:
Jewish Ethics in Modern Medicine
Sunday, November 9, 2025
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Spike Anderson
Exploring the intersection of faith and health, "Sacred Decisions: Jewish Ethics in Modern Medicine" delves into the profound moral questions raised by contemporary medical practices. Join us as we navigate the ethical landscape that shapes our choices and influences the well-being of our community.
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Messengers of Meaning: The Lives and Lessons of the Prophets
Sunday, November 16, 2025
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Spike Anderson
In a world filled with noise and ambiguity, the stories of the prophets serve as beacons of truth. Their lives reflect profound lessons that transcend time and culture, urging us to cultivate compassion, seek justice, and embrace humility.
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Subversive Principles:
Pirkei Avot
Sunday, December 7, 2025
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Max Miller
Pirkei Avot, the most studied book of our sages, is not what it seems. Avot is a revolutionary text meant to compel its readers to act differently. We will use the approach of the scholar David Aaron to uncover the subversive meaning in Avot.
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Enchanting Judaism:
Spells, Magic, and Sacred Objects
Sunday, December 14, 2025
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Max Miller
Ancient Jewish spells and magic Jewish amulets, these are the topics we will uncover in our class about the relationship between Jews
and the occult.
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Voices of Valor:
Jewish Resistance in Times of Peril
Sunday, January 25, 2026
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Max Miller
To be a Jew is to be a rebel, to be counter-cultural, and to resist the mainstream. Learn about Judaism as the most ancient movement of resistance against tyranny.
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Circumcision:
Let's Cut to the Chase
Sunday, February 1, 2026
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Rachael Miller
This class examines the practice of brit milah, ritual circumcision and the evolution of conversation and practices around one of Judaism’s
oldest rituals.
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Jewish Weddings: Tradition,
Transformation, and Modern Twists
Sunday, February 8, 2026
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Rachael Miller
This class explores the rich traditions of Jewish weddings, examining how they have evolved over time and adapted to modern sensibilities.
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Dying to Move On:
The Jewish Funeral
Sunday, March 8, 2026
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Rachael Miller
This class provides an in-depth look at Jewish funeral practices, exploring the rituals and traditions that honor the deceased and support the mourners.
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Harmony and Strife: Jews in Arab Lands Throughout History
Sunday, March 15, 2026
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Spike Anderson
Throughout history, the relationship between Jews and the various Arab lands has been marked by a complex interplay of harmony and strife. From periods of prosperity and cultural exchange to times of conflict and persecution, the Jewish communities in these regions have navigated a multifaceted existence. Delve into the rich tapestry of their experiences, exploring how historical events and cultural interactions have shaped their identities across the centuries.
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The Mighty and the Flawed:
Samson in the Book of Judges
Sunday, March 22, 2026
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Spike Anderson
In the Book of Judges, we encounter one of the most compelling figures of the Tanakh: Samson. Known for his incredible strength and heroic exploits, Samson symbolizes might and valor. However, his story also reveals profound flaws, illustrating the complexities of human nature. Through his victories and eventual downfall, we are reminded that even the mightiest can succumb to weaknesses. As we reflect on Samson's journey, we can explore themes of power, morality, and the consequences of our choices.
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Freedom's Ripple: How the Passover Story Shaped the World
Sunday, March 29, 2026
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Spike Anderson
As we reflect on the profound significance of Passover, it's essential to understand its far-reaching impact throughout history. This ancient narrative of liberation and resilience not only serves to commemorate the Jewish people's exodus from Egypt but has also inspired countless movements for justice and freedom across the globe. From civil rights advocates to modern social justice efforts, the themes of oppression and liberation portrayed in the Passover story continues to resonate deeply, reminding us that the struggle for freedom is universal.
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Divine Directives:
Wisdom of the Torah
Sunday, April 19, 2026
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Rabbi Max Miller
Torah is a guide to holy living. Together we will uncover pragmatic ways to living a sacred life.
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