Congregation Kneseth Israel offers a new adult Hebrew class
Congregation Kneseth Israel, 330 Division St. in Elgin, is forming a new adult Hebrew class. It will meet every other Sunday for eight sessions from 11 a.m. to noon. Classes begin March 1.
The class is designed to be a "crash course." By the end of the class students will know how to decode Hebrew words that are written in a different alphabet and read from right to left. They also will learn the basic prayers of the Friday night Sabbath service. This is not a conversational or Biblical Hebrew class but will give students the building blocks for either if they wish to continue their studies.
They have partnered with the National Jewish Outreach Project which has been engaging people in the study of Hebrew throughout North America. What the grant, they are able to offer this class free to Kneseth Israel members with your RSVP so that they have enough materials for you.
The fee for non-CKI, PJC members is $100, and the fee for non-CKI, non-PJC members is $250 for the entire series.
The class will be taught by Rabbi Margaret Frisch Klein. Her master's thesis was entitled, "Teach them Diligently: The Mechanics of Teaching Hebrew Decoding." Rabbi Klein brings to her rabbinate 20 years of conducting supplementary Hebrew Schools as the principal. She has taught students of all ages, from preschool through adult learners.
Rabbi Klein states, "When people come into a synagogue, sometimes they are intimidated by the amount of Hebrew we use. Even with transliteration guides they can still feel uncomfortable or lost. This class will help lower those barriers and make people feel more welcome. I am excited about teaching this class and unlocking the doors to the deep meaning that exists in Judaism."
For questions or to register, contact Rabbi Margaret Frisch Klein at rabbi@ckielgin.org
Congregation Kneseth Israel serves the diverse Jewish community of the greater Fox Valley area. It offers weekly services, a religious school, observance of all life cycle events, and a variety of additional programming. For details, visit www.ckielgin.org or call (847) 741-5656.