Melton Class Registration
Anshe Emet Synagogue
Jewish Medical Ethics: A 21st Century Discussion
Within the field of ethics, one of the most challenging frontiers is medical ethics. While contemporary medical knowledge preserves life, modern advances have raised moral and ethical dilemmas related to the sanctity and dignity of life—issues whose scope was unimaginable a generation ago. Written by Rabbi Elliot Dorff, PhD, Jewish Medical Ethics explores Jewish approaches to many 21st century ethical issues, including human cloning, surrogate motherhood, transsexual surgery, assisted suicide, and genetic manipulation. (10 sessions)
New Rachel Wasserman Scholar course for 2019!
**Anshe Emet members register directly with Rolly Cohen at 847.291.7788 x1304 or rolly@bjechicago.org or with Merle Tovian at 847.291.7788 x1321 or merle@bjechicago.org**
Mondays 7–8:30 p.m.
Begins: October 28, 2019
Instructor: Rabbi Michael Siegel
THE HOLOCAUST AS REFLECTED IN DIARIES AND MEMOIRS
Students explore the profound record of first-person accounts in diaries and memoirs uncovered in the years since the Holocaust and gain remarkable insights into the struggle for life as both young and old writers describe day-to-day life coping in the ghettos, imprisoned in the death camps, hiding on the run, and fighting for their lives. (10 sessions)
**Anshe Emet members register directly with Rolly Cohen at 847.291.7788 x 1304 or rolly@bjechicago.org or with Merle Tovian at 847.291.7788 x1321 or merle@bjechicago.org**
Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Begins: November 6, 2019
Instructor: Tzivia Garfinkel
BJE Campus
Core II – Sponsored by Congregation Beth Shalom at the BJE Campus
Ethics of Jewish Living (Revised 2018): examines the relationship between Jewish Life and ethical behavior and sheds light on how Jewish scholars and thinkers with multiple approaches consider contemporary issues that affect us individually and as a community.
Crossroads of Jewish History: spotlights defining periods in Jewish history and emphasizes the richness of Jewish memory, exploring significant crossroads where Jews made decisions that shaped our identity and destiny.
Couples Discount $50 available; contact Rolly Cohen.
Tuesdays 7–9:15 p.m.
Begins: TBD
Instructors: Rabbi Marianne Novak, Rabbi Dr. David Bauman
The Star and The Crescent: The Longstanding Relationship Between Judaism and Islam
(10-Lessons) This course will examine the longstanding relationship between Judaism and Islam, broadening our understanding and challenging our assumptions. Jews and Muslims have co-existed, at times peacefully and at other times contentiously, for more than a millennium. Although there were moments of strife, during the first thousand years after the founding of Islam, it was better to be Jewish in a Muslim country than in a Christian country. Outside the Middle East, though, Jews and Muslims continue to find ways to co-exist peacefully and often productively.
Mondays 7–8:30 p.m.
Begins September 23, 2019
Instructor: Rabbi David Rosenberg
Jewish Answers to Life’s Most Challenging Questions (4 sessions)
When dealing with life’s hardships and disappointments, when the suffering is overwhelming or the loss is devastating, many people ask themselves timeless questions. These will be explored in this course.
Day/Time: Wednesdays, 7 – 8:30 pm
Begins: October 23, 2019
Instructor: Rabbi Michael Balinsky
BERESHIT (GENESIS) I: FROM ADAM TO ABRAHAM –
The First Twenty Generations
The stories take us from the universal tales of the creation of the world, the flood, and the Tower of Babel to the foundational tales of Abraham and Sarah, and the beginnings of the Jewish people. The themes of family and faith, honor and dishonor, passion and power provide a rich exploration of our people and ourselves. (10 sessions)
Mondays 10–11:30 a.m.
Begins: December 9, 2019
Instructor: Rabbi Marianne Novak
Israeli Literature as a Window to Israeli Society
(10-Lessons) This course of study offers a fresh and fascinating examination of Israeli society since the birth of the State in 1948. Through the pens of its leading writers, participants encounter an Israeli society that is original, contemporary, honest and proud. Reflections of the mythic Israel are matched by poetry and prose that is challenging and self-critical, and both offer profound insight into the Israeli national psyche.
Mondays 7–8:30 p.m.
Begins January 13, 2020
Instructor: Rabbi David Rosenberg
Congregation Beth Judea
Jewish Answers to Life’s Most Challenging Questions (4 sessions)
When dealing with life’s hardships and disappointments, when the suffering is overwhelming or the loss is devastating, many people ask themselves timeless questions. These will be explored in this course.
Day/Time: Wednesdays, 10 – 11:15 am
Begins: October 16, 2019
Instructor: Rabbi Marianne Novak
Congregation Beth Shalom in Naperville
Core I
Rhythms of Jewish Living: examines the Jewish calendar, holidays, and life-cycle events. Students explore ideas, beliefs and practices that define Jewish life.
Purposes of Jewish Living: explores Jewish thought and beliefs. Essential Jewish theological concepts are presented through in-depth examination of the Bible, Talmud and other sacred texts.
Wednesdays 7–9:10 p.m.
Begins September 11, 2019
Instructors: Rabbi Yehoshua Ben Avraham and Marc Stopeck
COURSE IS FILLED
Congregation Beth Shalom in Northbrook
Bundled Core II – Ethics (8 sessions) Sponsored by Congregation Beth Shalom at the BJE Campus
Ethics of Jewish Living (Revised 2018): examines the relationship between Jewish Life and ethical behavior and sheds light on how Jewish scholars and thinkers with multiple approaches consider contemporary issues that affect us individually and as a community.
Tuesdays 7 – 8 p.m.
Begins: TBD
Instructor: Rabbi Marianne Novak
Location: BJE Campus, 3320 Dundee Road, Northbrook
Congregation Etz Chaim
Jewish Answers to Life’s Most Challenging Questions (4 sessions)
When dealing with life’s hardships and disappointments, when the suffering is overwhelming or the loss is devastating, many people ask themselves timeless questions. These will be explored in this course.
Sundays 12 – 1:30 p.m.
Begins: March 1, 2020
Instructor: Rabbi Yehoshua Ben Avraham
**Etz Chaim members register directly with Rolly Cohen at 847.291.7788 x1304 or rolly@bjechicago.org**
Social Justice: The Heart of Judaism
Social justice is a response to the suffering and indignity in our lives and in the larger world that is different from a service response. This new Melton course will draw from text and from history to explore just how social justice work goes beyond addressing short-term immediate needs and looks at structural causes of injustice and how these are best addressed today. (10 sessions)
**Etz Chaim members register directly with Rolly Cohen at 847.291.7788 x1304 or rolly@bjechicago.org**
Mondays 10:00–11:30 a.m.
Begins September 9, 2019
Instructor: Rabbi Yehoshua Ben Avraham
COURSE IS FILLED
Jewish Denominations: Addressing the Challenges of Modernity
Exploring the historical and ideological development of the major movements of modern Judaism, students look at key topics such as religious expression, gender, assimilation, Israel and post-denominationalism. (10 sessions)
**Etz Chaim members register directly with Rolly Cohen at 847.291.7788 x1304 or rolly@bjechicago.org**
Mondays 10:00–11:30 a.m.
Begins March 2, 2020
Instructor: Rabbi Yehoshua Ben Avraham
JUF Professional Cohort
JUF Professional Cohort – Core – Rhythms – 25 sessions
The Jewish Professional Cohort includes Rhythms of Jewish Living and offers an exceptional study experience that will enhance your work and enrich your life as a Jew. Experience the award-winning, text-based Melton curricula with a community of Jewish professionals.
Thursdays Noon–1 p.m.
Begins November 14, 2019
Instructors: Rabbi Scott Aaron and Rabbi Reni Dickman
Beyond Borders: The History of the Arab-Israeli Conflict – 20 sessions
This Scholars course provides students with a strong, text-based historical overview from the late nineteenth century through today. Course material is designed to encourage discussion and debate, and to challenge students to appreciate the basis of the conflicting historical claims made by all sides in the conflict. The complexity of the conflict forces students to grapple with issues of religion, culture, history, politics, economics, identity and survival—all reflected through primary sources, including newspaper articles, poetry, songs, government documents, speeches, photographs and memoirs.
Tuesdays, Noon – 1 p.m.
Begins November 5, 2019
Instructors: Rabbi Reni Dickman and Rabbi Michael Balinsky
Moriah Congregation
Core I
Rhythms of Jewish Living: examines the Jewish calendar, holidays, and life-cycle events. Students explore ideas, beliefs and practices that define Jewish life.
Purposes of Jewish Living: explores Jewish thought and beliefs. Essential Jewish theological concepts are presented through in-depth examination of the Bible, Talmud and other sacred texts.
Wednesdays 9:15 a.m. – 10:15 a.m
Starts October 23, 2019
Instructors: Lori Kramer and Rabbi Ben Kramer
Shemot II – Revelation and Revolution
This course follows the development of the emerging Jewish nation from their awe-inspiring encounter at Mount Sinai through the building of the tabernacle in the wilderness. The high points of divine revelation in “Ten Commandments,” “Encountering God,” and “Face to Face with God” are sharply contrasted with the low points of the “Golden Calf: Revolt or Reversion.” The text addresses some of the specific laws and regulations that were to become part of Jewish living as well as the meaning, purpose, and relevance to our lives today. (10 sessions)
Thursdays 9:30–11:00 a.m.
Starts September 12, 2019
Instructor: Rabbi Yehoshua Ben-Avraham
Bemidbar – Leadership Defied and Defended
(10 lessons) Israel’s fateful journey through the wilderness of Sinai presented numerous challenges to the leadership of Moses and Aaron; at times the nation challenged their competence as leaders, and at times individuals arose to challenge their very right to lead. This Melton Scholars course will survey the dramatic events of the fourth book of the Torah, Sefer BeMidbar, through analysis of biblical texts, artwork and related commentaries, old and new.
Thursdays 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Starts December 5, 2019
Instructor: Rabbi Yehoshua Ben Avraham
Exploring a Forgotten World – the Cairo Genizah
New for 2020! Come along for a journey of intrigue and adventure! This course brings to life an exotic era in Jewish history, revealing the inner thoughts of real-life characters and exploring the daily interactions and behaviors of Jewish men, women and families living along the Mediterranean more than 1,000 years ago. All of this has been uncovered through the discovery of a collection of worn-out scraps, text fragments and documents from ancient times. (10-Lessons)
Thursdays, 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Starts March 5, 2020
Instructor: Rabbi Yehoshua Ben Avraham
North Shore Congregation Israel
Bundling Jewish Holiday Core (8 sessions)
This course examines a variety of ancient and modern texts that reveal the depth of meaning found in our Jewish holiday practices.
No homework, no tests, no pressure!
Where – North Shore Congregation Israel, 1185 Sheridan Road, Glencoe, IL
** NSCI members register with Rolly Cohen at 847-291-7788 x1304 or rolly@bjechicago.org **
Mondays, noon – 1 pm
Starts December 9, 2019
Instructor: Judy Weiss
North Suburban Synagogue Beth El
Palaces in Time: A Year of Wonder
Rhythms of Jewish Living: examines the Jewish calendar, holidays, and life cycle events. Students explore ideas, beliefs and practices that define Jewish life.
** NSS Beth El members register directly with Rolly Cohen at 847-291-7788 x1304 or rolly@bjechicago.org **
Sundays, 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Starts October 6, 2019
Instructor: Ali Drumm
Register for year-long Core-Rhythms
Sundays, 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Starts October 6, 2019
Instructor: Ali Drumm
Register for Bundling Core-Rhythms – 8 sessions
Temple B’nai Israel
Jewish Denominations: Addressing the Challenges of Modernity
Exploring the historical and ideological development of the major movements of modern Judaism, students look at key topics such as religious expression, gender, assimilation, Israel and post-denominationalism. (10 sessions)
**TBI members register directly with Rolly Cohen at 847.291.7788 x1304 or rolly@bjechicago.org or with Merle Tovian at 847.291.7788 x1321 or merle@bjechicago.org**
Day/Time: Thursday evenings, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Begins: January 30, 2020
Instructor: Rabbi Ed Friedman
Modern Living/Maintaining Balance
This four-part course takes a look at a selection of classic and modern Jewish texts from the renowned Florence Melton School curriculum that relate to this contemporary challenge. Participants will discover Jewish wisdom that helps us to balance between the needs and demands of family, work, community and self.
Day/Time: Sunday afternoons, 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Begins: TBA
Instructor: Rabbi Ed Friedman
We Are What We Remember: The Ever-Evolving Transmission of Jewish History
This four-part course explores the impact of collective memory. Participants will encounter a number of different ways one of the most powerful keys to Jewish survival: the enduring determination to never forget.
Day/Time: Thursday evenings, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Begins: September 12, 2019
Instructor: Rabbi Ed Friedman
COURSE IS FILLED
Temple Chai
Modern Living/Maintaining Balance
This four-part course takes a look at a selection of classic and modern Jewish texts from the renowned Florence Melton School curriculum that relate to this contemporary challenge. Participants will discover Jewish wisdom that helps us to balance between the needs and demands of family, work, community and self.
Day/Time: Wednesday evenings, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Begins: February 5, 2020
Instructor: Rabbi Ilana Baden
** Temple Chai members, please register directly with Rolly Cohen at 847.291.7788 x 1304 or rolly@bjechicago.org or with Merle Tovian at 847.271.7788 x 1321 or merle@bjechicago.org **
West Suburban Temple Har Zion
SHEMOT (EXODUS) I: FROM SLAVERY TO SINAI
This course brings us the Egyptian narrative of our people from “Pharoah’s Paranoia” and “Moshe’s CV” to the dramatic story of our rescue, and survival in the wilderness during “Into the Sea” and “Manna from Heaven.” Leadership, bravery, faith, and doubt define some of the critical moments in these texts and offer us a rich backdrop for challenging our own assumptions. (10 sessions)
Tuesdays 7–8:30 p.m.
Begins: September 17, 2019
Instructor: Marc Stopeck
SHEMOT (EXODUS) II: REVELATION AND REVOLUTION
This course follows the development of the emerging Jewish nation from their awe-inspiring encounter at Mount Sinai through the building of the tabernacle in the wilderness. The high points of divine revelation in “Ten Commandments,” “Encountering God,” and “Face to Face with God” are sharply contrasted with the low points of the “Golden Calf: Revolt or Reversion.” The text addresses some of the specific laws and regulations that were to become part of Jewish living as well as the meaning, purpose, and relevance to our lives today. (10 sessions)
Thursdays 7–8:30 p.m.
Begins: January 23, 2020
Instructor: Marc Stopeck
BERESHIT (GENESIS) I: FROM ADAM TO ABRAHAM –
The First Twenty Generations
The stories take us from the universal tales of the creation of the world, the flood, and the Tower of Babel to the foundational tales of Abraham and Sarah, and the beginnings of the Jewish people. The themes of family and faith, honor and dishonor, passion and power provide a rich exploration of our people and ourselves. (10 sessions)
Thursdays 7–8:30 p.m.
Begins: TBA
Instructor: David Schwartz
Foundations of Jewish Living
Foundations of Jewish family living is a learning opportunity for parents and grandparents that provides a thought-provoking encounter with the core values of Judaism. When a child is experiencing his or her own Jewish education, this rich learning experience provides you with the learning, the language and the confidence to be a teacher to your own family and support Jewish learning at home.
Day/Time: TBA
Begins: TBA (Winter 2020)
Instructor: Rabbi Adir Glick