Winter-Spring 2026 Classes & Events
Starting Sat, Jan 3, 2026: Siddur Series: What is (This) Prayer?
A monthly meet-up to take a deep dive into the prayerbook (siddur). We will explore the history of different prayers, how the prayerbook came to be developed, and think together about what the words mean and why we still hold them dear. Whether you’re a novice just encountering these prayers for the first time or a lifetime devotee interested in deepening your understanding, this group is for you. Led by Rabbi Treu following shabbat morning services (over kiddush lunch).
Feb 7 – Shema
Mar 7 – Amidah
Apr 11 – Aleinu
May 9 – TBD
Wed, Jan 7: A Torah Trope Class with Cantor Kissner
Come learn “trope,” the system of symbols and melodies we use in Jewish tradition to chant biblical text such as Torah and Haftarah. We’ll learn both the actual system of trope as well as independently preparing for a Torah reading. All levels welcome. Interested? Email Michelle Tattenbaum… or just show up!
Thu, Jan 29: Zeman School for Grownups: 3,000 Years in Two Hours
What came first, the Maccabees or Queen Esther? The expulsion of Jews from Spain, England, or Syria? Join Rabbi Treu for a quick romp through the timeline of Jewish history; it will refresh your memory — and maybe teach you something new. Watch Rabbi Treu talk about this class (40 sec).
Wed, Feb 4, 11, 25, Mar 4: Talmud for Beginners
Because you’ve wondered your whole life what the fuss is about. Written over the course of 500 years, the collected teachings of the rabbis shaped Judaism as we know it. This course will serve as a refresher for those with some background from childhood, and an introduction to the uninitiated. We will start at the beginning (brachot) and then skip around to visit some of the famous debates and stories from the 40,000 pages of our culture’s greatest work. More seasoned Talmud students are invited to join the long-running Talmud class started a generation ago by David Schechner z”l and now run on Tuesday mornings by Rabbi Lisa Vernon and friends. For more information, contact Rabbi Treu or Rabbi Vernon.
Wed, Feb 4: Taking Back Independence: An Evening with the Mobility Independence Foundation
A special event celebrating Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month. We will be screening The Mobility Independence Foundation‘s (MIF) multi-award-winning documentary The Power to Move, winner of ‘Best Documentary” at Festigious International Film Festival, which spotlights the urgent need for wheelchair repair rights and accessible innovation. We will also have a live Q&A discussion with the founder and executive director of MIF, Thomas Quiter. Lastly, we will announce the release of MIF’s book, written by Dr. Daniel Chaves, about a little boy’s quest to find a wheelchair that gives him the power of independence.
Sun, Mar 8: Startup Nation at War: Innovation, Resilience, and Resolve
Join Gary Survis, Operating Partner at Insight Partners—one of the largest investors in Israeli tech—for a conversation with Israeli entrepreneurs on how the startup nation is navigating war without losing its edge. Hear how founders are adapting, raising capital, and staying resilient in the face of ongoing conflict. It’s a rare, behind-the-scenes look at Israel’s innovation engine under extraordinary pressure.
Sat, Mar 28: Rabbi Jeffrey Salkin: “What Happens After You Die?”
The prayer book has some answers! In this year’s Beth Torah Lecture, Rabbi Salkin walks you through the prayers that mention death (as well as one that does not) to provide inspiration and comfort. Rabbi Jeffrey Salkin is a noted writer and author. He has discussed the American political scene on CNN and the BBC. His column, “Martini Judaism: For Those Who Want to be Shaken and Stirred,” published by the Religion News Service, has won several awards for best religion column of the year, and is also an award-winning podcast. His essays have appeared in The Washington Post, Commentary, The Wall Street Journal, Tablet, and the Forward.