Exploring Judaism

A series of sixteen classes at Or Shalom Synagogue

 

Who should attend?  Seekers considering affirming Judaism for the first time are welcome, as are Jews returning to Judaism and practicing Jews wanting to increase their basic knowledge.  Everyone interested in attending must speak with the Or Shalom Rabbi.

 

What is our approach?  In keeping with the Renewal Movement’s philosophy, we both (1) explain Jewish customs in their historical and intellectual context, and (2) emphasize the ways that Judaism speaks to the psychological and spiritual needs of individuals and groups.

 

What will we study?  We will study a number of key topics in Jewish thought and practice, ranging from Shabbat traditions, prayers, and holidays to new directions in Kashrut to controversial ideas in theology.  Discussion, questions, and a diversity of viewpoints will be offered by the instructors and solicited from students in the class.

 

Who will teach? Rabbi Laura Duhan Kaplan and Education Director Barbara Halparin.

 

Where will the class be held? Or Shalom, 710 E. 10th Avenue at Fraser, unless another location is arranged with the class.

 

When will the class be held?

7:30-9:30 p.m., two Tuesday nights per month, September through December

 

What should students bring? An open heart, and open mind, and  -- when it is their turn on the schedule -- a dairy or vegetarian snack.

 

What should students read?  In addition to readings distributed or suggested in class, please read Jewish With Feeling, by Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, founder of the Renewal Movement.

 

How much does the class cost? The class is free to Or Shalom members.  Nonmembers are asked to pay $200 per individual, or $250 per couple.

 

What role does the class play in preparing for conversion to Judaism? If you are considering affirming Judaism for the first time, we ask that you participate in

1.         the “Exploring Judaism” course

2.         Or Shalom Shabbat or other Or Shalom events at least once a month

3.         other adult education opportunities of your choice at Or Shalom and in the Jewish community

4.         consultation and counseling with the Or Shalom rabbi about spiritual issues and questions of importance to you.

 

Please note that there is no magic formula for calculating when a person is ready to affirm Judaism.  This will be determined on a person-by-person basis through consultation with the rabbi.

 

Whom should I call if I have questions about the course or the process?  Please contact Rabbi Laura Duhan Kaplan at Or Shalom via phone at 604-872-1614 or via email at reblaura@telus.net.

Revised June 5, 2009

 

 

 

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