advertisement

Temple Chai offers adult learning programs

Temple Chai, a Reform Jewish congregation in Long Grove, is initiating ambitious daytime adult learning programs for temple members and guests. The sessions are being presented by temple clergy, staff and guest speakers.

"The goal of our study sessions is to provide opportunities for temple clergy and staff to engage with congregants," said Senior Associate Rabbi Ilana G. Baden. "In that way, we are sharing personal histories and learning from each other about matters that may affect and enrich our everyday lives. Our guest speakers enhance our learning experience."

Baden described some of the programs. "We are offering monthly 'Lunch and Learn' minimesters. Each minimester is an in-depth study of a specific topic during three one-hour weekly discussions on Tuesdays or Wednesdays."

In March, Senior Rabbi Stephen Hart scrutinizes what it means to live a Jewish life in today's diaspora. He and participants will discuss inter marriage, assimilation and the challenge of revealing one's Jewish identity.

In May, Cantor Scott Simon confronts the irrepressible concerns of inevitable aging by study, contemplative listening, mindfulness meditation and the cultivation of spiritual qualities. With the help of the book "Wise Aging" by Rabbi Rachel Cowan and Dr. Linda Thai, the cantor will offer real world suggestions on how to age wisely when relating to spouses and adult children, dealing with loss and finding romance.

June's Lunch and Learn features Laura Siegel Perpinyal, the temple's director of Congregational Learning. She examines the history of several new Jewish holidays that relate directly to Israel, including Jerusalem Day, Israel's Independence Day and Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers. She and the class will then consider how American Jews may react to those holidays.

Baden said that the temple also has Third Thursday monthly afternoon programs. Each Third Thursday presents an hour and a half discussion on an interesting topic.

In March, Rabbi Hart analyzes the meaning of the Ten Commandments. April focuses on how to create a Seder that will appeal to multiple generations and interfaith families.

In May, Cantor Simon directs a presentation celebrating the influence of Jewish melodies on secular theater and 20th century pop music. In June, Dr Jeff Kondritzer, the temple's emeritus director of education, discusses the customs, rituals and food of Jews living in China, Japan, Costa Rica and other lands; all have a story to tell.

Perpinyal said that the temple is continuing to offer Sunday school for Grown Ups, where the curriculum complements the temple's annual theme. This year's theme is "The Story of Us."

"Within our theme, we are relating stories that help us to better connect with each other on a meaningful level," said Perpinyal. "The stories emphasize the personal narratives and delve into Jewish history, the relationship of American Jews to Israel, and the ongoing ties between Judaism and social justice."

In March, adult Sunday school will host members of the Skokie Holocaust Museum and, in April, a guest speaker will address the conflicting positions on current issues confronting Israel.

Rabbi Baden said that the temple continues to offer adult Hebrew classes during the week and weekly Torah study on Saturday morning "to enhance Shabbat with an informal discussion about the week's Torah portion."

"Each of our adult learning programs is crafted and, if necessary, re-crafted to be reflective and responsive to what our congregants want," said Baden.

"We continually check the pulse of our members," said Perpinyal. "We have learned that they want multiple opportunities to study with temple clergy and staff. We are now providing those opportunities."

For information about adult learning sessions, contact Laura at lperpinyal@templechai.org.

• Submit 'Your News' at www.dailyherald.com/share.

Laura Siegel Perpinyal, Temple Chai director of Congregational Learning Courtesy of Temple Chai
Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.