Rabbi Jake's Fall Class
Rabbi Jake will be teaching a wonderful variety of class topics this fall. These classes are free-
standing events. Join us for one or all.
Highlights of Pirkei Avot – Wednesday, October 15, at 7:30 pm, on Zoom.
Pirkei Avot, or Ethics of the Ancestors, is a beloved tractate of the Mishnah that offers timeless wisdom on character, leadership, and ethical living. In this class, we will explore key teachings from Pirkei Avot, focusing on the most influential and thought- provoking passages. Through discussion and reflection, we will connect ancient rabbinic insights to modern life, gaining practical tools for personal growth and moral clarity. We’ll also hear how some of these pieces have been put to music over the years and used in Jewish worship.
Spiritual Radicals in Their Time: - The Early Chasidim and Their Legacy Today - Wednesday November 5, at 7:30 pm, on Zoom.
This course explores the revolutionary spiritual movement of the early Chasidim in 18th- century Eastern Europe. Through the teachings of figures like the Baal Shem Tov and his disciples, students will examine how Chasidism challenged religious norms, redefined personal piety, and reshaped Jewish communal life. We will also trace the enduring influence of these "spiritual radicals" on contemporary Jewish thought and practice, engaging with both historical texts and modern interpretations.
Jewish Rituals for Queer Life Journeys – Saturday, November 22, following services, at 12:30 pm. In person and on Zoom.
Let’s explore how Jewish ritual can honor and support the unique life journeys of LGBTQ+ individuals. We will examine traditional Jewish lifecycle practices—such as coming of age, naming, marriage, and mourning and discover how they have been reimagined or adapted to reflect queer experiences and identities. Through text study and creative ritual design, we will discover how Jewish tradition can be a source of affirmation, resilience, and celebration.
Antisemitism Then and Now – Saturday, December 13, following services, at 12:30 pm. In person and on Zoom.
This class examines the roots, evolution, and modern expressions of antisemitism, from ancient times to the present day. We will explore how antisemitic ideas have persisted and adapted across cultures and centuries—from religious and political accusations in the past to contemporary forms including conspiracy theories, hate crimes, and online rhetoric. We hope to gain tools to recognize, understand, and thoughtfully respond to antisemitism in today’s world.
The Zoom invitations will appear closer to their dates in our newsletter, on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/betmish, and on our website www.betmish.org. Classes are always free for members of Bet Mishpachah. Nonmembers are encouraged to donate $10 online.
standing events. Join us for one or all.
Highlights of Pirkei Avot – Wednesday, October 15, at 7:30 pm, on Zoom.
Pirkei Avot, or Ethics of the Ancestors, is a beloved tractate of the Mishnah that offers timeless wisdom on character, leadership, and ethical living. In this class, we will explore key teachings from Pirkei Avot, focusing on the most influential and thought- provoking passages. Through discussion and reflection, we will connect ancient rabbinic insights to modern life, gaining practical tools for personal growth and moral clarity. We’ll also hear how some of these pieces have been put to music over the years and used in Jewish worship.
Spiritual Radicals in Their Time: - The Early Chasidim and Their Legacy Today - Wednesday November 5, at 7:30 pm, on Zoom.
This course explores the revolutionary spiritual movement of the early Chasidim in 18th- century Eastern Europe. Through the teachings of figures like the Baal Shem Tov and his disciples, students will examine how Chasidism challenged religious norms, redefined personal piety, and reshaped Jewish communal life. We will also trace the enduring influence of these "spiritual radicals" on contemporary Jewish thought and practice, engaging with both historical texts and modern interpretations.
Jewish Rituals for Queer Life Journeys – Saturday, November 22, following services, at 12:30 pm. In person and on Zoom.
Let’s explore how Jewish ritual can honor and support the unique life journeys of LGBTQ+ individuals. We will examine traditional Jewish lifecycle practices—such as coming of age, naming, marriage, and mourning and discover how they have been reimagined or adapted to reflect queer experiences and identities. Through text study and creative ritual design, we will discover how Jewish tradition can be a source of affirmation, resilience, and celebration.
Antisemitism Then and Now – Saturday, December 13, following services, at 12:30 pm. In person and on Zoom.
This class examines the roots, evolution, and modern expressions of antisemitism, from ancient times to the present day. We will explore how antisemitic ideas have persisted and adapted across cultures and centuries—from religious and political accusations in the past to contemporary forms including conspiracy theories, hate crimes, and online rhetoric. We hope to gain tools to recognize, understand, and thoughtfully respond to antisemitism in today’s world.
The Zoom invitations will appear closer to their dates in our newsletter, on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/betmish, and on our website www.betmish.org. Classes are always free for members of Bet Mishpachah. Nonmembers are encouraged to donate $10 online.