Classes and Workshops
Jewish learning comes in so many forms for all ages. Regular classes offered include several levels of Hebrew; Introduction to Judaism; and Love & Religion, our interfaith couples workshop. Meet our Jewish Life instructors.
Please make sure to read our registration policies before registering for a class.
Hot Topics in Jewish Thought
Thursdays, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
December 5, January 9, February 6, and March 12, 2020
Taught by Rabbi Hyim Shafner of Kesher Israel: The Georgetown Synagogue
In this four-week series, we will study and discuss select Jewish writings as they pertain to complex issues we face as a nation today. Topics will include immigration (Dec. 5), gun control and the right to bear arms (Jan. 9), the opioid crisis (Feb. 6), and reproductive rights (March 12). No previous knowledge necessary. Open to individuals of all backgrounds and affiliations.
Torah of Our World
Thursdays, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
January 16 & 30, February 13 & 27, and March 12 & 26, 2020
Taught by Shira Hecht-Koller, Rabbi Adam Mintz, or Dr. Erica Brown
In this six-week series, we will examine each of the five books of the Torah – and the Book of Esther – with an eye toward literary structure, broad themes, and historical context. The course will draw upon the daily reflections of contributors to 929 English, a project dedicated to creating global Jewish conversations anchored in Tanakh and focused on issues that unite and divide us. No previous knowledge necessary. Open to individuals of all backgrounds and affiliations.
Third Fridays Book Club: Exploring Israeli History Through Literature
Fridays, February 21 and March 20, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
They say if you want to understand Israel, read its literature. Gather with us on the third Friday of every month in the EDCJCC’s Salzberg Family Library to enjoy lunch and join in discussion, led by EDCJCC CEO Carole Zawatsky, about the complex and vibrant history of modern day Israel through the eyes of its contemporary authors. Together, through literature, we’ll strengthen our connection to Israel and celebrate a shared passion for the written word.
Hebrew Classes
Winter/Spring 2020 Session: Mondays, Tuesdays, or Wednesdays
January 6 – May 6, 2020
Taught by Gila Efrati or Sarit Lisogorsky
The Edlavitch DCJCC offers many levels of conversational Hebrew, from learning the aleph-bet to reading advanced literature. Our teachers are native Hebrew speakers with extensive teaching experience, including at the university level.
Introduction to Judaism
Winter 2020 Session: Tuesdays, February 11 – March 31
7:30 PM – 9:15 PM
Taught by JoHanna Potts
Come explore the rich fabric of Judaism! Using traditional texts and modern examples, we will cover the fundamentals of Jewish life, including Shabbat and holidays, prayer, lifecycle rituals, ethics, and beliefs. Register now for the winter session – or register in advance for the spring or summer sessions.
Love & Religion: An Interfaith Workshop for Jews and their Partners
One-Day Intensive: Sunday, March 29
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Taught by Marion Usher, Ph.D.
Being part of an interfaith couple can be challenging, but you don’t need to find the answers alone. For over 20 years, our four-session workshop has been a model to guide couples in openly discussing issues they may face as partners from different religious backgrounds. We offer a safe environment to work on creating your religious lives together. You can make Jewish choices while still respecting your partner’s religion. Join this class and be part of our ever-expanding interfaith community.
Usually a four-part series, we are offering this special, day-long intensive for those looking to complete the workshop on a weekend.
Everything You Wanted to Know About Making a Seder
Wednesday, April 1
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Taught by Marion Usher, Ph.D, and Amanda Herring, MA
The seder plate, the Hagaddah, the guest list, the menu! There’s so much to consider when creating your own Seder experience. Although Passover is the most commonly observed Jewish holiday among American Jews, there’s no one way to host a Seder! Explore all the parts of creating a Seder experience, and leave feeling confident and ready to host your first Seder your own way, acknowledging tradition, your family’s background, and who’s going to be around your table. We’ll cover selecting or creating your own Haggadah, menu selection and recipes, hosting tips, and how to make your Seder fun and interactive for all!
Classes for Theater Lovers:
Beyond the Script
Tuesdays, April 7 – May 19, 2020, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Taught by Theater J Artistic Director Adam Immerwahr
Take a deep dive into Theater J’s 2020-2021 plays in a friendly, book club-like setting. Learn how a theater professional analyzes a script as we read and discuss the plays in our season. (Participants will need to purchase scripts for this class.)
The Edlavitch DCJCC embraces inclusion in all its programs and activities. We welcome and encourage the participation of all people, regardless of their background, sexual orientation, abilities, or religion, including interfaith couples and families.