Everything You Always Wanted to Know, But Were Afraid to Ask Conversion is a scary topic — mostly for Jews. But it is inevitable that some non-Jewish partners will begin to think about becoming Jewish. It is also a fact that some Jews wish their non-Jewish spouse would convert. But talking to each other can…
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Cooking Jewish Whether You’re Jewish or Not: Passover
Passover this the most observed Jewish holiday in America. The central element is the meal around the Seder table that reenacts the historical exodus from Egypt. Food and ritual are at the center of this home based holiday. What if you are not Jewish or were not raised Jewish but you are in charge of…
Read More »Jewish Jokes – Just for Fun
This is not an event of Building Jewish Bridges, it’s just a fun event taking place in Berkeley and I’m inviting you to come with me. A Night of Jewish Jokes Where They’ve Been and Where They’re Going The Borscht Belt, the cluster of Jewish summer resorts in upstate New York where Milton Berle, Eddie…
Read More »Kabbalah According to Jim Carrey
Kabbalah, the increasingly popular study of mystical Jewish teachings, can seem dauntingly complex. Its building blocks known as the Sefirot, the perspectives of revelation of G-d’s character, all the more so. In this class, using the films and humor of Jim Carrey, we will look to uncover these foundational concepts and hope to bring new…
Read More »Basic Judaism classes coming this spring
Taking a basic Judaism class together is a great way to establish a shared understanding of Jewish traditions and practices. I encourage couples to take a class together and to spend time discussing what they learn. The Course (and by that they mean an introduction to Judaism) With Emanu-El Clergy “The Course” is a pathway…
Read More »Did you see the San Francisco Chronicle Ad?
A Taste of Judaism Are You Curious? A Taste of Judaism has been around for more than ten years and literally tens of thousands of people have taken it. It is aimed at the adult learner who has little knowledge of Judaism, but a curious mind. The class covers the three pillars of Judaism: Jewish…
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