Exploring Jewish Living

An introduction to the basic traditions, structure and meaning of Judaism. 

Welcome!  We are so happy that you are looking to explore your Jewish journey at Congregation Beth Shalom.

The Exploring Jewish Living class at Congregation Beth Shalom provides an opportunity to experience and learn about the Jewish calendar and holidays, examine Jewish life cycle rituals and meanings, and learn about numerous other aspects of Jewish life. The class provides space for the exploration of the meaning and wisdom behind this ancient tradition.  You will explore Jewish living in a program designed with opportunities for you to connect with others on a journey of discovery.  
In addition to an hour of class about Jewish traditions, you will have the opportunity to take a Hebrew class geared toward your level of proficiency because basic Hebrew knowledge provides a powerful window into Jewish living and meaning.

The class is for current members of the Beth Shalom community, those who aspire to be part of the Jewish community and anyone who is curious about Judaism and wants to learn more. 

This class is appropriate for you if —

1 –  you have been Jewish your whole life but haven’t had the opportunity to engage in Judaism as an adult either because you didn’t learn as a child or because that which you did learn didn’t speak to the spiritual questions you are asking today.

2 – you are not Jewish but interested in learning more about Judaism.

3 – you are looking to convert to Judaism through Beth Shalom.

Timing and Tuition

Class will meet in person on Wednesday evenings, September 25, 2024 through May 14, 2025 (no class on 10/2, 10/16, 11/27, 12/25, 1/1, 2/19, 4/16). The class fee includes tuition for Hebrew I, which meets on the same evening (or a different one of our Hebrew class offerings that meets your needs). Hebrew classes meet 7-7:55 pm and Exploring Jewish Living from 8:05-9:00pm. Tuition is $585/member, $759/non-member. Take it with a partner for a discount: $819 for partners (members), $1079 for partners (non-members). Note that only one partner needs to be a member. Scholarships are also available. 

More Information

Check out these resources to deepen your learning about Jewish life. Here are topics that will be covered in class. 

To know that Beth Shalom is a good fit, we request that folks considering conversion learn about Conservative Judaism prior to filling out the application below and beginning the official conversion process.  You may choose to do this by reading this article from My Lewish Learning and/or this article from Jewish Virtual Library, or by attending Shabbat morning services.  Please click here for more information about our Shabbat morning services, and here to register to join us for services. Please let us know if contact from a Beth Shalom staff member is important to you prior to attending services and we will reach out to you.

Exploring Jewish Living 2024-25 Application