What We Offer
Lifelong learning is a core part of Judea Reform Congregation values of Torah (Teaching) and Limud (Study). We are deeply committed to Adult Learning and offer robust ongoing opportunities for our community. We offer weekly Torah study, an annual scholar-in residence lecture, Adult B'Mitzvah programs, LEAD JRC: a signature leadership class, various rabbinic classes, along with occasional study groups, visiting lecturers, and lay leader presentations. Our offerings vary from year to year.
Rabbinic Classes
Our Judea Reform Rabbis, and others, offer many opportunities for learning each year through multi-week classes, one-time Lunch & Learns, and lectures. Class topics will vary from year-to year. Recent classes/lectures/programs include:
- Laughing with the Rabbis with Rabbi Soffer (2025)
- Pirkei Avot with Rabbi Bender (2025)
- Tisha B'Av Study with Rabbi Bender (2024)
- Preparing to Commemorate October 7 with Rabbi Simon (2024)
- Jewish Chosenness in Post- Holocaust Theology with Rabbi Bender (2024)
- Cultivating Gratitude with Rabbi Robin Damsky (2024)
- Conversations on Jewish Sacred Aging with Rabbi Richard Address (2023, 2024, 2025)
- How to Understand "The Conflict" with Rabbi Simon (2024)
- Making a Mitzvah out of the December Dilemma with Rabbi Matthew Soffer (2024)
Adult Education Committee
Our Adult Education Committee’s mission is to foster the Jewish education of adults in our congregation. The Committee acts in an advisory capacity to the clergy, giving feedback and ideas about congregational interests, opportunities, and desires for lifelong learning. The Committee also organizes learning opportunities (in collaboration with staff) which can include speakers, extended courses, and study groups, visiting lecturers, and lay members. We have a deep interest in welcoming learners to our offerings not only for educational enrichment but also to create a sense of community. Questions? Contact Jodi Lampley, Executive Assistant.
Some recent Committee Adult learning opportunities:
- Jewish Humor in Mad Magazine with Judith Yaross Lee, congregant and scholar
- History of Italian Jewry with Ugo Goetzl, congregant and scholar
- Jews in Rock & Roll with historian Marv Meyer
Community Learning Collaborations
Introduction to Judaism:
This yearly Introduction to Judaism class provides an open and engaging 18-week experience geared towards both Jews and non-Jews who want to learn more. Organized by Jewish for Good, this class is taught by local rabbis, including Judea Reform's Rabbi Soffer and Rabbi Bender, and is in-person at Jewish for Good. In partnership with Beth El Synagogue, Kehillah Synagogue, and Judea Reform Congregation. Email Madeline Seltman if you are interested in learning more.
Jewish Book Festival:
A yearly festival that showcases Jewish authors and their books. This program is coordinated by Jewish for Good and Beth El Congregation. Judea Reform Congregation is a sponsor.
