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

What’s Next? The Jewish Journey of the Soul

 with Rabbi Toba Spitizer                                                                               Wednesday evenings, 7:30-9:00pm, October 30, November 6, 13 & 20

An 18^th century author wrote, “’Tis impossible to be sure of any thing but Death and Taxes” (what he didn’t add is that Judaism has a lot say about both!). In this class, we will explore one of those certainties—human mortality—and the rich Jewish tradition of the soul’s journey after death. Jewish teachings about the afterlife offer powerful ways to think about our own mortality, as well as new perspectives on grief and loss. Questioning, skepticism, and general discomfort with the topic welcome! The class will be cumulative, so attendance at all four sessions, if possible, is recommended.

Everyone Can Drash!

with Rabbi Shahar Colt                                                                                     Thursday evenings, 7:30-9:00pm, November 21, December 5, 12 & 19

In this class we will explore what it means to “drash”- to explore Torah texts, develop one’s own wisdom and share it with the community. Over the course of four classes each person will develop a drash on their own or with a partner. We hope these drashot will be shared at a Dorshei Tzedek Shabbat morning service in the spring, but anyone is welcome to join the class without committing to presenting. The class will be cumulative, so attendance at all four sessions, if possible, is recommended.

Metaphor & Meaning: New Ways to Encounter the Divine

with Rabbi Toba Spitzer                                                                                             Thursday evenings, 7:30-9:00pm, March 19 & 26, April 2

Over her winter sabbatical, Rabbi Toba will be working on a book about God and metaphor, and the ways in which Jewish texts and tradition offer new and sometimes surprising ways to think about divinity and our relationship to it. In this class, she will share some sections of the forthcoming book, and the texts that inspired it. Whether you are comfortable with God language, have no use for it, or are somewhere in between, this class is for you!

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

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 Stan Fleischman at: stanfma@gmail.com or 617-332-5433 for more information.

Film Club

See more information about the film club here.