Jewish Life & Learning Classes for Adults

The Florence Melton Adult Mini-School

In this project of Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jewish adults learn about their heritage and culture in a challenging and inspiring course of study. With over 150 local graduates, our sophisticated, sequential curriculum introduces the shared, classical heritage of the Jewish people and its development into contemporary forms of Judaism. A basic knowledge of Judaism is a prerequisite for enrollment. Classes consist of readings, analysis of text, and discussions. Participants are asked to commit themselves to 2 1/2 hours a week over two years of study. There are no examinations or grades. Family Shabbat and Havdallah experiences are held, as well. Upon completion, participants receive a Certificate of Jewish Study from Hebrew University. Registration deadline is September 1, 2012. Start the Jewish New Year with study for yourself! For more information visit our Melton page or contact Aliza Orent at (512) 735-8030 or aliza.orent@shalomaustin.org.

Hebrew Ulpan Aleph Adults

Ulpan is an Israeli method for teaching and improving all Hebrew language skills – speaking, comprehension, reading and writing. In an interactive setting, participants are introduced to the Hebrew Alef-Bet, vowels, essential pronunciation, sight-reading, and conversational skills
using the most updated materials for modern Hebrew. No prior knowledge is needed, as this is a continuation of the beginner-level course that started in the fall. The purchase of the book “Hebrew from Scratch Part 1” by Shlomit Chayat, Sara Israeli and Hilla Kobliner is required. Teens
will be considered for participation on a case-by-case basis. For more information, contact Aliza Orent at (512)735-8030 or aliza.orent@shalomaustin.org. Meets in Room 222.
M I 6:30-7:45 PM I 1/28-3/18 I 8x I $112m/$135nm I JE4112

Hebrew Ulpan Bet Adults

Ulpan is an Israeli method for teaching and improving all Hebrew language skills – speaking, comprehension, reading and writing. Participants will need a foundational understanding of Hebrew – this is a continuation of Ulpan Aleph. In an interactive setting, participants will focus on enriching and perfecting the four language skills: reading, writing, listening comprehension and conversation. The purchase of the book “Hebrew from Scratch Part 1” by Shlomit Chayat, Sara Israeli and Hilla Kobliner is required. Teens will be considered for participation on a case-by-case basis. For more information, contact Aliza Orent at (512)735-8030 or aliza.orent@shalomaustin.org. Meets in Room 222.
M I 8-9:15 PM I 1/28-3/18 I 8x I $112m/$135nm I JE4111

Israeli Folkdance All Ages

Come be a part of the community. Israeli Dance is more than just fitness; it is socialization, dancing, and being a part of what is happening worldwide. When you learn Israeli Dance, you can go anywhere in the world and dance the same dances. Led by Melinda Torrence and Teresa Pomerantz. Get ready to learn and have fun doing it! All levels are welcome. For more information, contact Teresa Pomeranz at (903)513-4095 or teresa@pomeranch.com. Meets in Dance Studio.
T I 7-9:30 PM I Ongoing I $4 members, students & seniors/$6 non-members

Jewish Yoga Adults

Using gentle yoga poses, meditation, and simple Hebrew chanting, we will experience the deep wisdom of Judaism through body, mind, and spirit. Each class will focus on the spiritual traits of one of our biblical ancestors, and will enable us to grow through the experiences and qualities of these key Jewish figures. No yoga experience is necessary – yoga poses will be extremely gentle, and can be modified to be done in a chair as well. Wear comfortable, loose clothing and bring a mat or blanket to sit on. Taught by Rabbi Rebecca Solielle Epstein, Registered Yoga Teacher®.For more information, contact Aliza Orent at (512)735-8030 or aliza.orent@shalomaustin.org.
Meets in Room 150C.
Th I 7-8:15 PM I 3/7-4/25 I 8x I $115m/$135nm or $18 per session I JE1111

Mo’adon HaSefer/Hebrew Book Club Adults

This club meets to discuss new and not-so-new Israeli literature. Participants may read the book in translation, if it’s available. Discussion is held in Hebrew. Dates, times and meeting locations vary. If you would like to be added to the club’s e-mail list and receive date and location
information, contact Iris Rempe at (512)294-0045 or irisrempe@aol.com. For additional events or opportunities for the Israeli community or to be placed on an e-mail list for the local Israeli community, please contact aliza.orent@shalomaustin.org.

What’s Love Got to Do With It?

A Jewish Take on Love and Relationships Adults While the Beatles may have crooned, “All you need is love,” were they right? Or do we actually need more than that? Come explore the Jewish perspective on love and relationships. A Jewish “take” on love posits that love happens in relationship (with ourselves, with friends and neighbors, family members, intimate others, G-d, and even with our most frequent festival, Shabbat). When we understand how to capture a Jewish sensibility of love, we enhance our capacity of influence in our lives, communities and maybe even the world, for the better. Taught by Rabbi Rachel Kobrin, Congregation Agudas Achim. For more information, contact Aliza Orent at (512)735-8030 or aliza.orent@shalomaustin.org. Meets in JCC Room 150C
Th I 10:30-12 PM I 2//14-3/28 I 7x I $90m/ $110nm I JE1112

Women’s Beit Midrash Rosh Chodesh Series Adults/Young Adults

Rosh Chodesh, the first of the new Jewish month, has historically been associated with women, and has become an opportunity for Jewish women to gather for study and spiritual exploration. This spring, join an intergenerational group of women from across our community for three special Rosh Chodesh celebrations. We will share in music and ritual, as well as explore a theme related to the specific month. Enjoy a special time of spiritual rejuvenation and connectedness. 2/11- Adar: Our sages teach us “Be Happy, It’s Adar.” But happiness can be elusive – how do we
achieve happiness? What is happiness exactly? Explore this topic through text study, ritual, and personal reflection in a welcoming and stimulating environment. 3/4- Nisan: We celebrate Passover, the Festival of Freedom, during this month. But what does it mean for us to be free in our own lives today? In what ways are we enslaved, personally? What “seeds” do we need to plant and how can we help them to grow? Share in studying and reflecting on this topic, and enter the Passover season with your own unique spiritual intention. 4/8- Iyar: Iyar is understood to be a month for spiritual and physical healing, because the word Iyar is an acronym for Ani Adonai Rofecha, “I am God your Healer.” Join together in an evening dedicated to exploring Jewish healing through text study, song, reflection, and celebration. Led by Rabbi Rebecca Epstein. For more information, contact Aliza Orent at (512)735-8030 or aliza.orent@shalomaustin.org. Meets in Federation Building Conference Room.
Classes may be purchased individually at $15 JCC member/$20 Nonmembers

M I 7-8:30 PM I 2/11, 3/4, 4/8 I 3x I $45m/$60nm I JE1113