Lifelong Jewish learning is a priority at Temple Israel. Educational opportunities for adults are offered at all levels for the study of Hebrew, enabling many of our older students to bond in their journey to become B’nei Mitzvah. Members often enjoy Torah study, as well as the exploration of diverse subject areas relating to various dimensions of leading a Jewish life. Throughout the year, adults may join weekly study groups, enroll in multi-session classes, or attend presentations by guest scholars.
Every Shabbat morning, adults gather in the Temple library to study the weekly Torah portion with members of our clergy. Through stimulating and participatory discussions, the group explores the Torah’s lessons and its relevance to our lives. Interested adults are invited to join the group at any time. All levels of knowledge and diverse opinions and beliefs are welcome.
Adult Hebrew students travel through a two-year journey culminating in an Adult B’nei Mitzvah experience. This has been an inspiring experience geared towards any adult who was unable to celebrate their becoming bar or bat mitzvah at the age of 13. Through this life-cycle experience, a class of learners study Hebrew, Torah, ritual and history with an instructor and our rabbis and cantor. The highlight of the class is the evening of becoming Adult B’nei Mitzvah in front of the community where each student chants Torah and gives a “d’var Torah” (literally a “Word of Torah”), sharing with our congregation each of their spiritual paths.
Adults can also take Hebrew classes which enables both beginner and intermediate level students to focus on basic reading skills and to develop comfort with the prayerbook and participation in Temple services. After two years of Hebrew study, adults students are then eligible to celebrate their Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Conversational Hebrew groups and classes are available, as well, to anyone who is interested.