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Home > LEARNING > Adult Education

Adult Education

Explore the wide variety of learning opportunities available year-round at Congregation B’nai Jacob. Our programming includes book talks, engaging lectures, and interactive classes, all designed to inspire thoughtful conversations and foster personal growth.

Many of our classes and programs are free of charge, and we welcome participants of all ages, genders, and affiliations. For information on upcoming programs, class times, and any registration or fee requirements, please consult our newsletter or calendar.

 

Upcoming Guest Speakers and Special Events

SundaySun, 12 OctOctober, 2025

Docomomo - US Tour Day at CBJ

Sunday, Oct 12th 10:00a to 12:00pDocomomo, a nonprofit dedicated to the documentation and conservation of Modern Architecture, celebrates CBJ’s 1961 modernist building, designed by the German Jewish architect, Fritz Nathan. In coordination with Docomomo’s 2025 theme, “Places of Worship,” New Haven Preservation Trust volunteer Kyle Driebeck will present a multimedia lecture about American temple architecture highlighting our beautiful building. The talk will follow a tour augmented with insights from congregants Joe Blumberg and David Skolnick.

MORE INFO

SundaySun, 9 NovNovember, 2025
SaturdaySat, 22 NovNovember, 2025

Lunch & Learn with Cantor Kochava

Shabbat, Nov 22nd 1:00p to 2:00pPlease join Cantor Kochava in a soulful, uplifting musical session following Kiddush. We will sing niggunim and songs of blessing and thanks together as we joyfully enter into the week of Thanksgiving

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SaturdaySat, 13 DecDecember, 2025

A Look at Childhood Over Time and Cultures with Dr. Rosalind Atkins

Shabbat, Dec 13th 1:00p to 2:00pWhile children are a relatively unchanging fact of life, childhood is a constantly shifting concept. Child Psychologist, Roz Atkins views historical perspectives on childhood and reflects on the extent to which theories and practices are universal or based in particular times and cultures.

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Introduction to Judaism
September 10 – April 29

Wednesday Nights (on Zoom*)
7:30–8:30 PM

A 20-week course introducing the basics of Judaism, suitable for those converting, interfaith couples, and anyone interested in learning more. The course follows the Miller Introduction to Judaism Curriculum. Five in-person sessions are included to foster community among participants.

*Occasionally in person

Sponsored and taught by the New Haven Board of Rabbis and Cantors.
Contact rachel.beaver@yale.edu for more information.

 

MondayMon, 27 OctOctober, 2025

The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic Book Study with Rabbi Rona Shapiro

Monday, Oct 27th 7:30p to 9:00pUsing Gila Fine’s award-winning book, The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic, we will study the talmudic passages about the six named women in the Talmud. This will give us the opportunity to learn some Talmud together, to think more about the role of women in the Talmud, and to dig into Fine’s work more deeply. Everyone is welcome. No experience necessary. Free for members; non-members $100.

MORE INFO

MondayMon, 3 NovNovember, 2025

The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic Book Study with Rabbi Rona Shapiro

Monday, Nov 3rd 7:30p to 9:00pUsing Gila Fine’s award-winning book, The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic, we will study the talmudic passages about the six named women in the Talmud. This will give us the opportunity to learn some Talmud together, to think more about the role of women in the Talmud, and to dig into Fine’s work more deeply. Everyone is welcome. No experience necessary. Free for members; non-members $100.

MORE INFO

MondayMon, 10 NovNovember, 2025

The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic Book Study with Rabbi Rona Shapiro

Monday, Nov 10th 7:30p to 9:00pUsing Gila Fine’s award-winning book, The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic, we will study the talmudic passages about the six named women in the Talmud. This will give us the opportunity to learn some Talmud together, to think more about the role of women in the Talmud, and to dig into Fine’s work more deeply. Everyone is welcome. No experience necessary. Free for members; non-members $100.

MORE INFO

MondayMon, 17 NovNovember, 2025

The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic Book Study with Rabbi Rona Shapiro

Monday, Nov 17th 7:30p to 9:00pUsing Gila Fine’s award-winning book, The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic, we will study the talmudic passages about the six named women in the Talmud. This will give us the opportunity to learn some Talmud together, to think more about the role of women in the Talmud, and to dig into Fine’s work more deeply. Everyone is welcome. No experience necessary. Free for members; non-members $100.

MORE INFO

MondayMon, 1 DecDecember, 2025

The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic Book Study with Rabbi Rona Shapiro

Monday, Dec 1st 7:30p to 9:00pUsing Gila Fine’s award-winning book, The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic, we will study the talmudic passages about the six named women in the Talmud. This will give us the opportunity to learn some Talmud together, to think more about the role of women in the Talmud, and to dig into Fine’s work more deeply. Everyone is welcome. No experience necessary. Free for members; non-members $100.

MORE INFO

 

Ongoing Learning & Prayer

Shir Hadash

Shabbat Morning, 9:00 AM
(See calendar for specific dates)
Join us for a songful, prayerful, and soulful service led by Cantor Kochava Munro and Rabbi Rona Shapiro. Through the power of music and the kavanah (intention) of our words and hearts, we strive to make God’s presence manifest in our lives.

Shabbat Schmooze

Every Friday Evening, 6:00 PM
Join us for a casual gathering with wine and cheese before Shabbat services. It’s a chance to schmooze with friends and build community. Services begin at 6:30 PM.

Bread & Torah

Shabbat Mornings, 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM 
Rabbi Rona Shapiro leads an engaging study session exploring Jewish texts and teachings. No experience necessary, and everyone is welcome.
Note: These regular weekly classes will occasionally be canceled; please check our calendar or newsletters for updates.

Prayerful Shabbat Walks

Shabbat Mornings, 8:30 AM
(See calendar for specific dates)
Join Rabbi Shapiro at Woodbridge Town Center for a peaceful, prayerful walk through the woods. Please wear comfortable walking shoes.

For information on upcoming programs, class times, and any registration or fee requirements, please consult our newsletter or online calendar.

 

Learning to Become a Gabbai 
with Cantor Kochava 

(see calendar for specific dates)

Discover the role and responsibilities of a gabbai, including the history, language, and procedures involved in this vital role. Open to everyone, though a moderate to high Hebrew reading level is beneficial. Interested participants should email Cantor Kochava at cantorkochava@bnaijacob.org.

Adult Education Committee Co-Chairs: JoAnne Burger and Cindy Gerber

Tue, September 16 2025 23 Elul 5785