Adult Education

Adult Learning and Reflection at Dorshei Tzedek

All classes and programs take place at 60 Highland Street in West Newton, in the Second Church of Newton, and are open to the community unless otherwise indicated. 

Programs

Preparing Ourselves for the High Holydays

with Rabbi Toba Spitzer

Tuesday, September 1, and Wednesday, September 9, 7:30pm-9:00pm

How can we make the Yamim Noraim, the Days of Awe, most meaningful in these challenging times?  All are welcome to join  Rabbi Toba for an exploration of teachings about teshuvah, "turning/returning" onto the desired path of our lives, as well as  key prayers of the High Holydays liturgy, as we prepare for the Jewish new year. It is fine to come to one or both of the sessions. Have something available to do a bit of writing.  Zoom registration available HERE. 

Documents for class 2: Shema Koleynu Shema Koleynu Questions

Video Recording of Class 1
Video Recording of Class 2
 

A Conversation about COVID-19: discussion and Q&A with Lisa Samelson, Paul Hattis, and Rob Saper

Thursday, June 11, 2020 • 19 Sivan 5780

5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Join us for a deeper fact-based understanding of how to live our lives with COVID-19 around us. Come listen as panelists and fellow CDT-members Lisa, Paul, and Rob answer our questions to help us all set out individual and family "policies" to stay safe in these uncertain times.

A link to the recording of the event is on this calendar event page.

Please send all your questions, general and specific, to office@dorsheitzedek.org

Metaphor & Meaning: Part 2! 

          with Rabbi Toba Spitzer      Zoom                                                                     Wednesday evenings, 7:30-8:45pm, May 6, 13, 20 and 27 

Back by popular demand, this continuation of Rabbi Toba's March class continues the exploration of new/old metaphors for how we think about and experience God, incorporating text study and practice.  Whether or not you took the first three sessions in March, you are welcome to join as we look at metaphors of Voice, Fire, and more! Please go to THIS LINK to register.

SUNDAY MORNING ADULT LEARNING PROGRAMS

These programs happen during religious school hours on Sunday mornings, at JCDS, 57 Stanley Avenue in Watertown.

Chanukah for Grown-Ups

with Rabbi Shahar Colt

Sunday, December 15, 11am-noon, JCDS

What meaning does Chanukah hold beyond lighting the menorah and eating latkes? We will examine themes of assimilation and identity.  

How to Stop Losing Your S**t with Your Kids

Book Talk with CDT member Carla Naumburg

Sunday, January 12, 10:30-11:30am

Ever lose it with your kid? If so, you’re definitely not alone.  Parenting is stressful and you’re only human. Carla Naumburg, PhD, a clinical social worker, was so at a loss with her daughters that she found herself googling “how to stop yelling at my kids” during a particularly grueling evening. That moment led to this book--a short, emphathic, tip-filled program for how to manage your triggers, stop the meltdowns, and become a calmer, happier parents with calmer happier kids. 

Parenting Through a Jewish Lens

Parenting Through a Jewish Lens is a class that is organized and run through Hebrew College, at locations around the Boston area. For parents of children ages 0-9, this six-session program offers support, encouragement, and connection as you explore parenting through the Jewish tradition. Each session will incorporate Jewish values and texts to guide you in becoming a more purposeful parent, making difficult topics easier, and finding balance in everyday life. Taught by Ayelet Lipton.

Registration is required. To register, please go to this link and indicate that Dorshei Tzedek is the site you are choosing (listed under Watertown). Finances should not be a barrier to participation; you will see information about tuition subsidies on the registration page, and please be in touch with Melissa Colten, Executive Director, if additional assistance is needed.

6 Sundays: 10:15am-11:45am at JCDS, 57 Stanley Ave, Watertown
January 5, 12, 26     February 2, 9     March 1

Ongoing Programs:

Shabbat Morning Torah Study

with Rabbi Toba Spitzer
Saturday once monthly, 8:45am

Each month before the Shabbat morning service, we will explore the parshat hashavua, the weekly Torah portion, through the lens of commentaries both traditional and contemporary. No prior experience in Torah study is necessary. Bring your own caffeinated beverage!

Mindful Mornings

Monday and Thursday mornings, 8:30am-9:15am

This weekly gathering combines guided and silent meditation to develop our capacity for mindful awareness, and to help us cultivate qualities of patience, gratitude, and compassion. On the first Thursday of each month, Karen Arnold will lead a meditation based on the weekly Torah portion. On the second Thursday of each month, Rabbi Toba Spitzer will incorporate chant (the singing of simple Hebrew phrases from liturgy and biblical texts) as well as mindfulness meditation. At other sessions, Carole Slipowitz and other CDT members will facilitate the meditation. All are welcome, whether experienced in meditation or not.

No need to make a weekly commitment; join us when you’re able! For more information, please contact mindful-mornings-leaders@dorsheitzedek.org.

Exploring the Bible

with Dr. Sanford Goldfless
Meets weekly through May

In this class we get familiar with the Jewish Bible (the Tanach or Torah, Prophets, and Writings) by reading it in English and discussing large parts of it together. We often look at the biblical text from a historical perspective, and we always pay attention to the literary features of the text that are essential for conveying its meaning. We also enjoy conversation about the course of Jewish history and culture through the ages.

The class is very low key and interactive and is open to all Dorshei Tzedek members and their friends.

Cost: $15 per session (fee can be reduced to whatever you feel comfortable with)
Contact information coming soon!

Film Club

See more information about the film club here.