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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.

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

Upcoming Guest Speakers and Special Events

SaturdaySat, 26 OctOctober, 2024

The Leadership Void in the American Constitution with Stephen Skowronek

Shabbat, Oct 26th 1:00p to 2:30pJoin CBJ member and esteemed political science scholar Stephen Skowronek as we step back from the heat of the election campaign to reconsider some fundamentals. He will discuss the framers' lack of a clear conception of political leadership and how this has led to improvisations in presidential leadership, potentially threatening constitutional governance.

MORE INFO

WednesdayWed, 30 OctOctober, 2024

The Future Fight Against Extremism and For Democracy: An ADL Program

Wednesday, Oct 30th 7:00p to 8:00pThe ADL, founded in 1913, is the world’s leading anti-hate organization, with a timeless mission: "to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment for all." In this talk, an ADL expert will address the rise in extremism, antisemitism, and hate, offering strategies to combat these growing threats. The program will also feature a panel discussion with the Connecticut FBI, focusing on how the community can play a role in the fight against extremism.

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SundaySun, 3 NovNovember, 2024

A History of the Jews in England

Sunday, Nov 3rd 10:00a to 12:00pJoin CBJ member Elaine Lawson for an illustrated talk exploring historical factors, along with her personal perspectives on the current Jewish community in England.

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MondayMon, 4 NovNovember, 2024

The Aish Kodesh (Sacred Fire) with Rabbi Rona Shapiro

Monday, Nov 4th 7:30p to 8:30pExplore the sermons delivered by Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira in the Warsaw Ghetto, focusing on cultivating faith and resilience amid unrelenting suffering. The course addresses the relevance of these teachings in today’s challenging times. No experience is necessary. Texts will be provided in English and Hebrew. Free for members; non-members $100.

MORE INFO

MondayMon, 11 NovNovember, 2024

The Aish Kodesh (Sacred Fire) with Rabbi Rona Shapiro

Monday, Nov 11th 7:30p to 8:30pExplore the sermons delivered by Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira in the Warsaw Ghetto, focusing on cultivating faith and resilience amid unrelenting suffering. The course addresses the relevance of these teachings in today’s challenging times. No experience is necessary. Texts will be provided in English and Hebrew. Free for members; non-members $100.

MORE INFO

MondayMon, 18 NovNovember, 2024

The Aish Kodesh (Sacred Fire) with Rabbi Rona Shapiro

Monday, Nov 18th 7:30p to 8:30pExplore the sermons delivered by Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira in the Warsaw Ghetto, focusing on cultivating faith and resilience amid unrelenting suffering. The course addresses the relevance of these teachings in today’s challenging times. No experience is necessary. Texts will be provided in English and Hebrew. Free for members; non-members $100.

MORE INFO

MondayMon, 2 DecDecember, 2024

The Aish Kodesh (Sacred Fire) with Rabbi Rona Shapiro

Monday, Dec 2nd 7:30p to 8:30pExplore the sermons delivered by Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira in the Warsaw Ghetto, focusing on cultivating faith and resilience amid unrelenting suffering. The course addresses the relevance of these teachings in today’s challenging times. No experience is necessary. Texts will be provided in English and Hebrew. Free for members; non-members $100.

MORE INFO

SaturdaySat, 7 DecDecember, 2024

Fire Safety During the Holidays with Marty Halprin

Shabbat, Dec 7th 1:00p to 2:00pIn Judaism, fire, candles, and oil hold great significance, especially during Hanukkah when we light the menorah and fry latkes. Marty Halprin, CBJ President and a former professional firefighter, will share essential fire safety tips to help prevent hazards during Hanukkah and throughout the year.

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MondayMon, 9 DecDecember, 2024

The Aish Kodesh (Sacred Fire) with Rabbi Rona Shapiro

Monday, Dec 9th 7:30p to 8:30pExplore the sermons delivered by Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira in the Warsaw Ghetto, focusing on cultivating faith and resilience amid unrelenting suffering. The course addresses the relevance of these teachings in today’s challenging times. No experience is necessary. Texts will be provided in English and Hebrew. Free for members; non-members $100.

MORE INFO

MondayMon, 16 DecDecember, 2024

The Aish Kodesh (Sacred Fire) with Rabbi Rona Shapiro

Monday, Dec 16th 7:30p to 8:30pExplore the sermons delivered by Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira in the Warsaw Ghetto, focusing on cultivating faith and resilience amid unrelenting suffering. The course addresses the relevance of these teachings in today’s challenging times. No experience is necessary. Texts will be provided in English and Hebrew. Free for members; non-members $100.

MORE INFO

 

Tue, October 15 2024 13 Tishrei 5785