Westborough – On Thursdays from Nov. 3, to Feb. 9, clergy from three area synagogues – Westborough’s Congregation B’nai Shalom (CBS) and Beth Tikvah Synagogue, and Worcester’s Temple Emanuel-Sinai – will lead a weekly class, “Introduction to Judaism.” from 7 to 9:30 p.m.
According to CBS’s Rabbi Gurevitz, “This course is designed for all who wish to learn more about Judaism, or get a refresher on the basics. It is for Jews and non-Jews.”
Classes cover Jewish holidays, rituals, readings, philosophy, lifecycle events, social justice and history.
“For those in interfaith relationships or marriages, it provides a helpful foundation for those who did not grow up Jewish,” Gurevitz noted. “Jewish partners are encouraged to attend, as the shared experience can provide an adult-level refresher and stimulate ongoing conversations about how to observe faith traditions as a family.”
Gurevitz commented that the course is recommended for those who are interested in gaining a better understanding of Jewish practices and the historical foundations of Judaism. Also, the course would provide a foundation for those interested in conversion to Judaism, when accompanied with additional learning and practice as determined with a sponsoring rabbi.
This is the first time that CBS and Temple Emanuel-Sinai, which are both Reform synagogues, and Beth Tikvah, which is unaffiliated, have collaborated on a teaching program.
“Introduction to Judaism” is free to members of the three synagogues. The fee is $120 for non-members, payable by Thursday, Nov. 10. All participants will be required to purchase four books for the course. No one will be turned away from the class; speak to Rabbi Gurevitz at 508-366-7191 about financial concerns.
Classes will not be held on holidays (Nov. 24, Dec. 22 and 29). Classes during 2016 will be held at CBS, and those in 2017 will take place at Temple Emanuel-Sinai.
Congregation B’nai Shalom is located at 117 E. Main St., Westborough; Temple Emanuel-Sinai is at 661 Salisbury St., Worcester.
For more information and to sign up, visit http://bit.ly/2dmPVet.
