A number of organizations have basic Judaism classes that run from fall to spring but are offered in modules so it is easy to start the class throughout the year. Even if you see that a class has already started, give the synagogue or institution a call and see if you can join the class….
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Selichot – a peaceful opening to the High Holidays
As we move closer to the High Holidays in the shadow of 9/11 it is a good time to think about Selichot. To quote Rabbi Mark Bloom of Temple Beth Abraham in Oakland, “Selichot, the penitential service which occurs on the Saturday night before Rosh Hashana.” Selichot is a time to reflection on who we…
Read More »Basic Judaism classes – Fall 2014
Introduction to Judaism classes around the Bay! Starting September through November NEW! ** Don’t worry about missing the first class. I’m sure they will gladly bring you up to speed. In fact, it’s a great opportunity to sit down and get to know Rabbi Leider – one on one. Judaism 101 with Rabbi Susan Leider…
Read More »What’s all that about the Jews being “chosen”?
(A bee doing her job.) The concept of ‘chosen-ness’ really messes with some people’s minds. Let’s clear it up so we can be productive. I read a drash/teaching by a friend for the parshah Kedoshim (teaching on a section of the Jewish bible). He said: The Parshah of Kedoshim begins with the statement, ’You…
Read More »Feast of Jewish Learning in Palo Alto
The Feast is bigger and better than ever! It’s a full day of activities, classes and workshops for adults, families, teens and kids of all ages. There is also childcare available so you can learn with some of the best and brightest educators in the Bay Area while the kids play with new friends. No…
Read More »A Non-Jewish Mother Reflects on Raising Jewish Children
In January 2014 my Mixed and Matched column addressed the concerns a Jewish Dad had about his wife’s ‘failure’ to raise the kids Jewish. Many people reacted to the article with some anger at his failure to take responsibility for raising his own children. But some non-Jewish spouses had other thoughts. One non-Jewish mother had…
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