Adult Education

Follow along when viewing Wendy Lerman’s livestream lecture
on Sunday March 16th at 11:30am
with her handout – Moses Meets God at the Burning Bush.

Our dynamic adult education programs enhance knowledge of the Jewish people.

Wide Ranging Programs

Formal and informal programs explore our traditions, customs, and culture as well as the wider contemporary Jewish world as we study the contours of Jewish life past and present. Most adult education programs are open to the community, free of charge and on our YouTube Channel.

Rabbi's Lecture Series

The annual thematic lecture series spearheaded by Rabbi Fine is one of our most popular adult education programs. The presentations are lively, invite audience participation, and often end with a cliff-hanger, inspiring everyone to come back for more. Rabbi Fine holds a doctorate in modern European history from The City University of New York (CUNY) and brings university-level depth to his presentations. Past topics have included:

  • German Jewish History
  • History of Israel
  • Jewish Life in Muslim Lands
  • American Judaism
  • Anti-Semitism

Adele Rebell Memorial Scholar-in-Residence

Each year, we invite a distinguished scholar to join us for a Friday evening and Saturday morning weekend of learning. Past speakers have included:

  • Dennis T. Olsen (Princeton Theological Seminary)
  • Gerald Cohen (Jewish Theological Seminary)
  • Patricia Klindienst (author)
  • Benjamin D. Sommer (Jewish Theological Seminary)
  • Deborah Waxman (Reconstructionist Rabbinical College)
  • Benjamin R. Gampel (Jewish Theological Seminary)

Rabbi Selig Salkowitz Memorial Distinguished Speaker Series

This series is in memory of Rabbi Selig Salkowitz. Rabbi Salkowitz was a valued member of our synagogue who encouraged us to collaborate with the Reform movement. Last year’s speaker was Rabbi Daniel Friedlander, speaking on the “disorganization” of organized Judaism.

Town Halls

Forums held throughout the year allow congregants and community members to bring their expertise to topics of current interest. Past topics have ranged from whether the Exodus actually took place, planning for the end of life, and interactions with local elected officials.

Temple Library

Temple Israel’s library provides access to a wealth of knowledge. Materials include reference works, nonfiction, fiction, children’s books, and recorded literature and film

Adult Education Events