Lifelong Learning for Adults
We believe that learning is a central part of life for both adults and children. Our adult learning community is an integral part of many members' lives in their lifelong pursuit of Jewish literacy and personal growth.
Our programs are driven by the diverse interests of our members. We provide learning opportunities that are accessible to learners at all levels of understanding. See detailed listings of our current Lifelong Learning offerings below.
Temple Beth Shalom members, want to be added to the Lifelong Learning email list? Log in to your account and add lifelong learning to your subscriptions.
Non-members, complete our Membership Inquiry Form for information about membership and congregational life.
Have ideas for a class you'd like to lead? Submit our proposal form!
Updated April 14, 2025
Lunch & Learn: A Monthly Exploration of Jewish Topics
For Temple Beth Shalom members; no RSVP needed
From 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. at Temple Beth Shalom, Room 202-203
Upcoming classes:
May 8 - Rabbi Will Hall
More dates coming soon!
Bring your lunch and let's explore Jewish topics together! Let by a rotating schedule of our clergy and our director of education, these meetings are open to Temple Beth Shalom members. Expect a one-time lesson on an article, a piece of music, current events, a Jewish text or holiday...we will enjoy a different topic each time!
Explore Jewish Morocco With Temple Beth Shalom
Join Rabbi Steinman and Rabbi Eger next year, from Oct. 18-28, 2025, to explore the rich Jewish heritage of Morocco. Get excited by exploring the trip details here!
Recipes & Reminiscing
Join us for our occasional cooking classes featuring seasonal treats and eats! As classes are scheduled, they will appear on this page.
Want to view the recipes compiled from other meetings of Recipes & Reminiscing? Check them out here!
Torah Study
Saturdays at 9:00 a.m.
For the first Saturday of each month, Torah study is in person at Temple Beth Shalom, for members only. Members, see access information on the Links for Members webpage.
For remaining Saturdays in the month, Torah study is held on Zoom only, for members and non-members.
Whether you have the Torah memorized, or you haven't read the Torah for years, or you've never read it, this group is open to those interested in delving into the text. Learn what the Torah says and how it is relevant in our daily lives. The group is guided through an insightful and lively discussion led by one of our rabbis, educators, or lay leaders. It is helpful but not at all necessary to have your own Torah. Contact us to receive more information about taking part in Torah Study. Free for members and non-members.
Kol Hakavod Ensemble
Do you sing? Play a musical instrument? Join the Kol Hakavod ("Voice of Honor") Ensemble, our congregational choir and instrumental group!Kol Hakavod is both a dedicated choral and instrumental ensemble and an opportunity for ongoing adult education. Being a choir member provides you with a unique opportunity to explore Jewish music from the past and present under the guidance of Cantor Abby Gostein. See more information and fill out our participation form here.
Learn to Read Hebrew for Adults
Ten one-hour online classes, $250
Get started with the aleph-bet!
Familiarity with Hebrew can be key to feeling at home in the Jewish community. Learn the shapes and sounds of the Hebrew alphabet in this ten-session online course from the Union for Reform Judaism.
This class will help you recognize and understand common Hebrew words and phrases often heard in Reform congregations and in Jewish prayer. This course assumes no prior Hebrew experience and is perfect for Introduction to Judaism alumni and other adults!
Developed specifically for online learning, each session introduces new material and includes practice with an experienced instructor in a collaborative classroom environment. Registration includes online access to all class materials, including audio recordings of each practice exercise. Participants will be asked to purchase a workbook.
Tuition: $250
Adult B'nai Mitzvah Program
Contact us for more information.
The Adult B'nai Mitzvah Program includes 15 months of study, Hebrew language learning, and the opportunity learn alongside fellow members, clergy, and Jewish educators. The first cohort of students concluded with the simcha of a shared b’nai mitzvah.
URJ Classes
The URJ has a great slate of classes and events! In addition to Learn to Read Hebrew for Adults (listed above), check out these offerings:
Trans-Generations: Supporting Grandparents of Trans and Gender-Expansive Youth
Join with other Jewish and Jewish-adjacent grandparents who share the experiences, challenges, and emotions that arise when a grandchild expresses a gender identity that might be new to grandparents. Trans-Generations facilitators are experts in Jewish LGBTQIA+ mental health and gender identity.
Tuesday, April 29, 6 PM Central
Abraham Joshua Heschel: Prophecy and Social Justice
Register for a free, one hour “study break” on Jewish social justice. This session is part of a monthly series from LAASOK, the liberal Beit Midrash, and is co-sponsored by the Union for Reform Judaism.
Monday, May 12, 2 PM Central
Being an LGBTQ+ Ally in Challenging Times
Join us for a conversation on being an effective ally, creating safe spaces, and using Jewish values to guide our support. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your allyship or understand how to ask for what you need, this free session is for you.
Thursday, May 15, 7 PM Central
All programs except Hebrew will be auto-captioned on Zoom. Reach out to learning@urj.org with questions and accessibility requests. URJ is committed to reducing financial and other barriers to participation.