Adult ed fall 2007
By Jewish Review
Ad Olam
Rabbi Hanan Sills will be holding Torah and Text classes this fall on Wednesday evenings. Specific dates and times announced at www.adolam.org or call 541-344-7945.
Ahavath Achim
Shabbat Speaker Series held every third Shabbat of the month during regular services at Congregation Ahavath Achim, 3225 SW Barbur Blvd. For information call 503-227-0010 or visit www. ahavathachim.com.
Chabad of Eugene
Unless specified, classes meet at Chabad House, 1307 E. 19th Ave. For information call 541-484-7665 or visit www.chabadofeugene.org.
Weekly Torah Study
Journey into the heart of the vast world of Jewish wisdom, ideas and principles to live by as they are learned from the weekly Torah portion. Mondays, 7:30-9 pm.
Ask the Rebbetzin
Women’s Circle meets for lunch at the atrium in the EMU, University of Oregon. Wednesdays, 1-2:30 pm.
Kosher Cooking Club
Learn the basics of kosher cooking, how to make Shabbat meals and traditional Jewish foods. Even if you’ve never cooked before, this is an ideal opportunity to learn to cook exotic, healthy and authentic Jewish dishes. Thursdays, 3-6 pm.
Monthly Rosh Chodesh
Join other Jewish women from your community in celebration of the new moon: traditionally a special holiday for women. Learn about the highlights of the month and engage in a fun, creative project to enhance your learning. Call for meeting dates and location 503-484-7665.
Chabad Clark County
Classes meet at 9604 NE 126th Ave., Suite 2320, Vancouver. For information call 360-993-5222 or visit www.chabadclarkcounty.com.
The Story Behind the Story
A text based study of Jewish ideas and concepts based on the weekly Torah reading. Mondays, 7:45-8:45 pm.
Chabad of Oregon
Classes meet at Congregation Bais Menachem, 6688 SW Capitol Hwy. For information or to register call 503-977-9947 or visit www.chabadoregon.com.
Jewish Women’s Circle
Established to create an atmosphere of inspiration, creativity, camaraderie and learning. All Jewish women in Portland—regardless of background or affiliation—are invited to attend. Each gathering features a fun and informative hands-on experience, while exploring the Jewish heroines from our collective history. Meets monthly in different homes around the women’s holiday of Rosh Chodesh. Contact Simi Mishulovin at 503-977-9947.
Talmudic Studies
Enjoy the lively discussion that characterizes Talmudic studies and have the opportunity to grapple with the famous logic that has embodied the ultimate Jewish scholarship for nearly two millennia. Sundays, 10-11 am.
Inner Dimensions
A serious look at the personal relationship one has with God. Based on the teachings of the Kabbalah and Chassidic masters, this text-based class is geared for beginning and intermediate level students. Study, discussion and review will be in English. Saturdays, 9 am.
Halachah
Traverse the entire Torah through the focused lens of Halacha. Dispel the myths and shed light on the intricate details of the vast sea of Jewish observance straight from The Code of Jewish Law. In the course of time you will study every ordinance of Judaism and gain valuable insight into many of their philosophical underpinnings. Monday-Friday, 8-8:30 am.
Tanya—Window to the Soul
Discover your soul on this fascinating trip into the deepest shades of your psyche. Drawing on the ancient wisdom of the Kabbalah, as redacted in the text of the most celebrated and seminal volume of Chassidic and Mystical teaching, "The Tanya." Daily, 7:50 pm.
Chabad of Salem
Classes meet at 520 Tower Dr. NW, Salem. For information or to register contact Rabbi Avrohom Yitzchok or Fruma Perlstein at 503-363-0522 or by email at Chabadofsalem@gmail.com.
Weekly Torah Study
$7 per class or $35 for the seven-week series, includes textbook. Tuesdays, 7:30 pm.
Practical Kaballah
If you’ve ever wondered about the purpose of creation, if there is free choice, if there is a reason for evil, if there is life after death or what a soul is, this is the class for you. Learn the Torah’s view on all these topics and many more.
Jewish Women's Circle
Have a blast with other Jewish women from the Salem area as you explore Jewish topics and schmooze with friends. Activities include: book club, challah baking, crafts, recipe sharing, discussion of Jewish women in history, secrets to the Jewish femininity and current events. For more information contact Mrs. Fruma Perlstein at chabadofsalem@gmail.com or call 503-363-0522. $10 per class. Last Monday of the month.
Chabad of S. Oregon
Classes meet at 420 Bridge St., Ashland. For information call 541-482-2778 or visit www.chabadofashland.com.
Weekly Kabbalah Class
Text-based, in-depth study of the teachings of the ancient mystics—Kabbalistic concepts. Sundays, 10:30-11:30 am.
Weekly Torah Study
A stimulating and interactive class exploring the deeper meaning of the week’s Torah portion and how it applies to our daily lives. Thursdays, noon-1 pm.
Weekly Torah Discussion Group
Join a lively discussion of the week’s Torah portion and current events explored through the lens of the Torah’s lessons. Saturdays, 11:15 am-noon.
Cong. Beth Israel
Classes meet at Congregation Beth Israel, 1972 NW Flanders. For information call 503-222-1069 or visit www.bethisrael-pdx.org.
CBI Book Group
Sept. 16, "Suite Francaise" by Francine Nemirovsky; Oct. 21, "The Yiddish Policeman’s Union" by Michael Chabon; Nov. 18, "Beautiful as the Moon, Radiant as the Stars: Jewish Women in Yiddish Stories" edited by Sandra Bark. RSVP not required. For information, call Ellen Rosenblum at 503-241-9040. Select Sundays, 9 am.
Mini-mester: Bio-Ethics
Four-part course. To register contact the main temple office by Oct. 6 at 503-222-1069. $18 for members, $36 for nonmembers. Tuesdays, Oct. 9-30 at 7-8:30 pm.
Cong. Kesser Israel
Check individual class listings for location. For information call 503-222-1239 or visit www.kesserisrael.org.
Talmud—Back to the Source
Experience the exhilaration of Talmud study. This is an intellectually engaging, hands-on experience co-sponsored by Congregation Kesser Israel and Portland Kollel. PJA Chapel at the JCC, 6651 SW Capitol Hwy. Sundays, 9-10 am.
Mystic’s Guide to the Bible
Use classic texts, with a special focus on kabbalistic sources to unlock the secrets of the Torah. Portland Kollel, 2429 SW Vermont St. Wednesdays beginning Oct. 10, 8-9 pm.
Book of Yona: Women’s Study Group
Engage with one of the most read and least understood books of the Bible. This will be an interactive learning experience. Portland Kollel, 2429 SW Vermont St. Meets Aug. 29, Sept. 5 and 19 from 8-9 pm.
Congregation Kol Ami
Classes meet at Kol Ami Learning Center, 1006-B NE 146th St. For information call 360-896-8088 or visit www.jewishvancouver.usa.com.
Weekly Torah Study
A text-based study of Jewish ideas and concepts exploring the weekly Torah reading. Saturdays, 10 am.
Weekly Hebrew Study
Beginning Hebrew language study for adults. Call for details about course materials. Class begins Oct. 9. Tuesdays, 7-8:30 pm.
Cong. Neveh Shalom
Unless specified, classes meet at Congregation Neveh Shalom, 2900 SW Peaceful Lane. For information call 503-246-8831 or visit www.nevehshalom.org.
Shabbat Torah Study
Study and discussion on the parasha of the week every Shabbat morning in the library. Saturdays, 9-9:45 am.
Lunch and Learn
Using the text "Swimming in the Sea of Talmud" and other materials, Rabbi Isaak will facilitate these "brown-bag" discussions the second Wednesday of each month. Portland Visitor’s Association, 1000 SW Broadway, Suite 2300. Noon-12:45 pm.
Lunch and Learn
Using the text "Swimming in the Sea of Talmud" and other materials, Rabbi Isaak will facilitate these "brown-bag" discussions the third Thursday of each month. Intel, Jones Farm Campus, 5200 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Noon-12:45 pm.
Weekly Bible Class
Informal sessions offer the opportunity for lively discussion of Bible passages being studied. RSVP not required. Thursdays, 4:30-5:15 pm.
Weekly Talmud Class
Studying the Talmud is like listening to conversations of rabbis who lived 2,000 years ago. Rabbi Stampfer helps interpret their conversations to make them more understandable and timely. RSVP not required. Tuesdays, 5-6 pm.
Walking with God
Explore the Jewish portrayal of God within different streams of Jewish thought. We will dive into texts that reveal God in: Kabbalah, the Hebrew Bible, the Talmud, Medieval Jewish philosophy, Midrash, Halachah, modern Jewish thought and Hassidut. No knowledge of Hebrew necessary. Nov. 5-Dec. 10. Day TBA, 7:15-8:15 pm.
P’sukei d’Zimra
Cantor Linda Shivers will teach a class for learning P’sukei d’Zimra (verse of song) service for Shabbat. Class meets weekly with the goal of leading the beginning of Shabbat service. All students must be able to read Hebrew. Oct. 23-Nov. 20. Tuesdays, 7 pm.
Israel Through Music
This unique way to understand and enjoy Israel’s colorful history will cover the years leading up to Israel’s independence through current times. Milestone events occurring in Israel and in the Middle East will be explored, as well as how these events were reflected in the folk tunes of the day. $120 for members, $160 for nonmembers. Sept. 10-Nov. 12. Mondays, 8:15-9:15 pm.
Beginning Hebrew
Learn Hebrew for the first time or refresh your knowledge from childhood. Study will include basic vocabulary, use of verb constructs, nouns, pronouns and prepositions. Contact Susan Bernstein at 503-293-7306 for information. $120 for members, $160 for nonmembers. Sept. 10-Nov. 12. Mondays, 7-8 pm.
Judaism and Islam
A historical survey of topics:Jews in Islamic lands, Jewish sources for the Koran, Islamic mythology and Hadith, angeology and mysticism and Sharia and Halachah. In addition, compare the relationship of Jewish and Islamic thought on the topics of creation, women and gender, scripture, the end time, redemption, the Messiah, etc. Email jonseidel@aol.com for more information. $90 for members, $120 for nonmembers. Oct. 10-Dec. 12; no class Nov. 21. Wednesdays, 1-3 pm.
Cong. Shir Tikvah
Check individual class listings for location. For information call 503-282-1787 or visit www.shir-tikvah.net.
Weekly Torah Study
An absorbing, interactive exploration of the week’s parasha prior to Shabbat service. Bridgeport facility, 621 NE 76th Ave. Saturdays, 9-10:15 am.
Beginning Hebrew
Call for specifics about course materials; $180 fee applies. Sundays, time and location TBA.
Lunch and Learn Series
Session dates are: Oct. 7 and 21, Nov. 4 and 18 and Dec. 2 and 16. Free for members, $100 for nonmembers. Emerson School, 105 NW Park Ave. Noon-2 pm.
Florence Melton Adult Mini-School
Classes meet at Congregation Neveh Shalom, 2900 SW Peaceful Lane. For information call 503-892-3015 or visit www.meltonportland.org.
Adult Jewish Literacy
A non-denominational, pluralistic study of the foundational Jewish text, the Tenach—Torah, Prophets and Writings—in English, to examine the purpose of life, ethics, lifecycle and history according to Judaism. Classes meet two hours a week, 30 weeks a year for two years. $525-675 per year. Begins Sept. 18. Tuesdays, 9:30-11:45 am or 7:15-9:30 pm.
Numbers
A look at the historical setting in which the book was written and the passages that convey key Biblical principles that have a direct application to modern day challenges. $80 per five-week class. Sept. 25-Oct. 23. Tuesdays, 10:30-11:45 am.
Ezekiel
A look at the historical setting in which the book was written and the passages that convey key Biblical principles that have a direct application to modern day challenges. $80 per five- week class. Oct. 30-Dec. 4. Tuesdays, 10:30-11:45 am.
Bereshit II
A look at the key narratives in Bereshit and a combination of classic and modern commentaries to examine how different readings of the text might challenge our assumptions. $160 not including text. Sept. 25-Dec. 4. Tuesdays, 9-10:15 am or 7-8:15 pm.
The Relationship Between Judaism and Christianity
Trace the transformation of the Jewish Nazarene sect into the Hellenistic gentile faith using Torah, Talmud, early Christian texts and contemporary scholarship. $160 not including texts. Sept. 25-Dec. 4. Tuesdays, 10:30-11:45 am.
Hadassah Portland
Locations and times for this series are forthcoming from Hadassah. For up-to-date information call 503-244-6389 or visit www.portlandhadassah.org.
Israel Speaker Series
Features speakers from fields of diplomacy and government, medicine, academia, arts and culture, environmental protection, etc. Locations and times for this series are forthcoming from Hadassah. Call for details.
Machon—"And you think your family has problems?"
An informal Bible-based curriculum for women that is fun and engaging. The cost for this course is included in annual Hadassah membership, $36 per year or $360 for a lifetime. Hadassah Multnomah Village, 3570 SW Troy St. Two meeting times offered: Sundays starting Nov. 11, 10 am-noon and Wednesdays starting Nov. 28, 10:30 am-12:30 pm.
Harold Schnitzer Program in Judaic Studies at PSU
Classes meet at Portland State University, 1825 SW Broadway. Check PSU Web site for specific classroom locations. For information or to register call the School of Extended Studies at 503-725-4832 or visit www.judaic.pdx.edu.
Introduction to Judaism
Judaism is a religion of ancient ties to a foundational text, a land, a people and a way of life. In this course you will explore the religious beliefs and practices of Judaism, from its Biblical origins to the variety of its modern forms. Call for tuition. Sept. 24-Dec. 2. MWF, 9-10:05 am.
Jewish and Israeli Literature
Survey of modern Jewish literary creativity looks at fiction and poetry translated from Hebrew, Yiddish, French, Russian and German. Topics include the relationship between sacred and secular literature; the transition from a diasporic European Hebrew literature to a national Israeli literature; the representation of the Holocaust in literature. Call for tuition. Sept. 24-Dec. 2. MW, 12:45-2:35 pm.
Jewish Life and Culture in the Middle Ages
Survey of Jewish history and culture from late antiquity to modern times. Topics include Jewish life under medieval Islam and Christendom; philosophy, Kabbalah and Jewish mysticism; Medieval Spain; and messianic movements. Call for tuition. Sept. 24-Dec. 2. Wednesdays, 5:30-9:10 pm.
Jewish-Christian Relations After the Holocaust
The Holocaust raised questions about the contribution of Christian theology to the mood of hate. Since that period there have been changes in Jewish-Christian relations. How did these changes develop? Analyze this dramatic issue through examination of the Roman Catholic Church’s Vatican II documents of the 1960s. Call for tuition. Sept. 24-Oct. 19. T/TH, 6:40-9 pm.
First-Year Hebrew
First in a three-course sequence of grammar and syntax, reading, writing and speaking. For non-native speakers of Hebrew. Call for tuition. Sept. 24-Dec. 2. MWF, 9-10:05 am.
Second-Year Hebrew
Second in a three-course sequence of grammar and syntax, reading, writing and speaking. Prerequisite: Hebrew 103 or equivalent. For non-native speakers of Hebrew. Call for tuition. Sept. 24-Dec. 2. MWF, 9-10:05 am.
Third-Year Hebrew
This course advances beyond second-year modern Hebrew, developing reading, writing and speaking skills with an emphasis on literary readings and essays. Prerequisite: Hebrew 203 or equivalent. For non-native speakers of Hebrew. Call for tuition. Sept. 24-Dec. 2. MW, 4:40-6:30 pm.
Havurah Shalom
Classes meet at Havurah Shalom, 825 NW 18th Ave. For information or to register contact Melinda at 503-248-4662 or by emailing info@havurahshalom.org.
Move with Kavannah
Each one-hour session begins with a brief meditation on a Torah or prayer verse, followed by a fun aerobic workout that includes Middle Eastern and Klezmer movement and music. All skill levels welcome. Register by Oct. 1. Six sessions beginning mid-Oct. Call for day and time.
Outtakes of Jewish History in Fact and Fiction
Exploration of alternate possibilities and imaginings of Jewish and Zionist history. Amy Dockser Marcus’ "Jerusalem 1913," will be compared to Michael Chabon’s "The Yiddish Policeman’s Union" and Phillip Roth’s "The Plot Against America." Register by Sept. 27. $20 for nonmembers. Oct. 17-Nov. 7. Wednesdays, 7-8:30 pm.
Begin with Aleph: Learn to Read Hebrew
For beginners focusing on basic reading competency. Uncover bits of Judaism only accessible though its original language. Class text is "Aleph Isn’t Tough." Register by Oct. 24. $20 fee for nonmembers. Nov. 14-Dec. 5. Wednesdays, 6:30-8:15 pm.
Palestine Before Israel
Examine original documents—in translation—by Jews and Arabs who lived in Palestine under Ottoman and British rule (1900-1948) in order to understand the political, social, economic, cultural, and philosophical influences that spawned the State of Israel. Register by Dec. 3. $20 fee for nonmembers. Dec. 12-Jan. 16. Wednesdays, 7-8:30 pm.
Get Your Groove On
Learn traditional Middle Eastern rhythms and how to provide percussive backdrops for beautiful Sephardic melodies and other Shabbat songs. All skill levels welcome. Register by Sept. 24. $50 fee. Oct. 1-Oct. 29. Thursdays, 7-8 pm.
Havurah Shir Hadash
Classes meet at Havurah Shir Hadash, 185 N. Mountain Ave., Ashland. For information call 541-488-7716 or visit www.havurahshirhadash.org.
Talmudic Studies
Weekly study led by Rabbi Zaslow. Mondays, 10 am.
Weekly Torah Study
Torah study led by Rabbi Zaslow will cover the portion specific for each week and teachings about the Torah in general. Tuesdays, noon.
Beginning and Intermediate Hebrew
Time and location of this class forthcoming from Havurah Shir Hadash. For up-to-date information check Web site.
Kabbalistic Meditation
Learn the authentic methods of Lurianic meditation, including isolation of specific sounds and colors for each of the 10 primary energy centers of the body. Each class will include 45 minutes of lecture and 45 minutes of group practice. $36 for members, $50 for nonmembers. Six weeks class beginning Oct. 9. Tuesdays, 7:30 pm.
Jewish Federation of Greater Portland
Classes meet at Jewish Federation of Greater Portland, 6680 SW Capitol Hwy. For information call 503-245-6219 or visit www.jewishportland.org.
Weekly Torah Study
Led by Executive Vice-President Charles Schiffman, a weekly reading and discussion of Torah. Class goes at its own pace rather than following the Torah portion of the week. RSVP not required. Fridays, noon-1 pm.
Jewish Learning Institute
Check individual class listings for location. For information or to register call 503-977-9947 or visit www.MyJli.com.
The Land and the Spirit
Many people love their homes and their countries, but once they relocate, they form new allegiances. If you have ever wondered about Israel and its place in the world—and in your heart—then this course is for you. Three meeting locations offered. Visit www.MyJli.com for day, time and location specifics.
Kol Shalom
Classes meet at the Mittleman Jewish Community Center, 6651 SW Capitol Hwy. For more information about classes call 503-459-4210 or visit www.kolshalom.org.
Sunday Forum
Check Web site for specific discussion topic information. Sundays, 9:45 am.
Matan
Call for information and class location at 503-892-6478.
Women in Jewish History
Ten week, non-denominational exploration of great women in Jewish history for mothers and their bat mitzvah-age daughters. Combines text study with creative activities such as drama, art and music. To register, email geobonnie@aol.com. $250 per mother/daughter pair. Oct. 23-Jan. 15. Tuesdays, 7-9 pm.
MJCC
Classes meet at the MJCC, 6651 SW Capitol Hwy. For information call 503-244-0111 or visit www.oregonjcc.org.
Conversational Hebrew
This class is based on the "Read Hebrew America" curriculum. Starting with phonetics and common phrases, the course will then focus on phrases and sentence structure. $66 for members, $80 nonmembers. Oct. 9-Nov. 27. Tuesdays, 8 pm.
Mah Jongg
Learn the ancient Chinese game of Mah Jongg played American style. Class is for beginners only; enrollment limited to eight. Sept. 19-Oct. 17 and Nov. 11-Dec. 12. Wednesdays, 7-9 pm.
Oregon Board of Rabbis
Introduction to Judaism
19 sessions included in this course are taught by 15 Portland area rabbis at several locations. Curriculum includes Jewish history, life-cycle events, holidays, ritual and daily practice, theology amd much more. $300 tuition. Contact Sheri Cordova for additional information at 503-639-0853 or by email at Lscord@comcast.net.
PCC Sylvania
Israel and Palestinians: The Missing Peace
History of the conflict from the beginning of the Zionist movement to the present. Explore the 1948 and 1967 wars, the Palestinian refugee problem, Jewish settlements and much more. $59 tuition. To register visit www.pcc.edu. PCC Sylvania Campus, 12000 SW 49th Ave. Sept. 22-Oct. 22. Mondays, 7-9 pm.
Portland Kollel
Unless specified, classes meet at Portland Kollel, 2429 SW Vermont St. For information call 503-245-5420 or visit www.portlandkollel.org.
Sunday Brunch
A light meal with learning on various topics taught by Kollel rabbis. Topic of the week found online. Sundays, 10 am-noon.
Pirkei Avos for Women
Hosted at a different home every first and third Tuesday of the month. Send an email of interest to cgpdx@comcast.net. Tuesdays, 7:30-8:30 pm.
Beis Midrash
Bring your own havruta—study partner—and study a text of your choice at the Kollel. Rabbis are available for help with your studying. Call ahead if you are in search of a havruta. Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 am.
Seudah Slishit
Join us for singing, schmoozing, words of Torah and a light meal to say farewell to Shabbat. Saturdays, times TBA.
Mystics Guide of Genesis
In-depth study of crucial issues as well as mysteries of the first book of the Torah. Use classic texts, paying specific attention to Kabbalistic sources to unlock the secrets of Genesis. Co-sponsored by Congregation Kesser Israel. Call for fee information. Oct. 10-Dec. 19. Wednesdays, 8-9 pm.
Shaarie Torah
Classes meet at Congregation Shaarie Torah, 920 NW 25th Ave. For information call 503-226-6131 or visit www.shaarietorah.org.
Learning Leads to Action
Meet, study and do mitzvot. Meeting dates: Sept. 17, Oct. 30, Nov. 11, Jan. 8, Feb. 3, March 23 and April 5. Location and times TBA via email from the education department.
Jewish History
Basic course in Jewish history based on a course from the National Jewish Outreach Program. For more information visit www.njop.com. Sundays beginning in Oct. Call for specific time and location.
Parasha Class
A discussion of the weekly Torah portion and its relevance to your life and week. Evenings beginning Oct. 10. Call for specific day and time.
Megillah Reading Class
Learn to participate in this festive holiday by leading one chapter of the Purim story: for adults only. Taught by Cantor Vitells. Nov. 7-March 7. Wednesdays, 7 pm.
Temple Beth Sholom
Classes meet at Temple Beth Sholom, 1274 Cunningham Lane S., Salem. For information call 503-362-5004 or visit www.tbshalom.org.
Adult Hebrew
Get down to basics. Text must be ordered and paid for in advance through the TBS office. Contact the office to register. $18 for nonmembers, $6 charge for class text applies to everyone. Sept. 9-Sept. 30. Sundays, 1-3 pm.
Pardes Class
The topic for this course is Joseph and his dreams. Free for members, $18 for nonmembers. Oct. 7-28. Sundays, 1-3 pm.