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For Information on Our Programs & Workshops, Please Contact

Joyce Schwartz at 781-449-0404 or Jschwartz@urj.org


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Welcome! Many people wonder where to begin to learn about Judaism and you’ve come to the best place to begin your exploration. Our free mini-course "A Taste of Judaism: Are You Curious?" is attended by people from a wide range of religious backgrounds who want to understand how Judaism differs from Christianity and other major religions. “Taste” is taught by dynamic rabbis from the Greater Boston community and gets rave reviews from all participants! Check out the Taste Forum in “The JUICE”, the interactive portion of our web site, to see what our “Taste” participants are saying about their experience during the class.
Classes
	A Taste of Judaism
	Introduction to Judaism
Frequently Asked Questions
	Is Introduction to Judaism the right course for me/us? Will there be other people like me/us attending?
	Is Introduction to Judaism a conversion class?
	Are materials included in the registration fee?
	How far in advance do I need to register?
	What is a Referring Rabbi and do I need one?
	Is there a lot of "homework" for this course?
	Will I receive some sort of certificate at the end of this course?

A Taste of Judaism: Are You Curious? is a three-session class on Jewish spirituality, ethics and community designed for the beginner – Jewish or not. Reform rabbis who encourage questions and lively discussions teach this engaging class.

Free of charge.

Click here for dates and times

Introduction to Judaism provides an opportunity to learn about Jewish history, traditions, holidays and life cycle ceremonies. Participants will gain comfort and familiarity with the symbols, liturgy, music, traditions and Hebrew blessings that accompany Jewish celebrations in the home and synagogue. Reform rabbis, cantors and educators teach this in-depth course.

Introduction to Judaism is designed for individuals and couples wishing to explore Judaism, as well as for those individuals considering becoming Jewish. Partners in interfaith relationships are encouraged to enroll together.

Fees: $275 per individual/$360 per couple. (URJ Yours, Mine & Ours participants receive a registration credit of $100/couple)

Click here for dates and times

Q: Is Introduction to Judaism the right course for me/us? Will there be other people like me/us attending?

A: There is no "typical" Intro participant but there will definitely be other interfaith couples in your class. Both couples and individuals take the course. Our participants come from a variety of religious and racial backgrounds. Gay and lesbian couples frequently participate in Intro. Some of our participants are Jewish individuals who want to reconnect and/or learn more about Judaism.

Q: Is Introduction to Judaism a conversion class?

A: No, although many people take Intro as part of the conversion process, there is no expectation that class participants are going to convert.

Q: Are materials included in the registration fee?

A: Yes, your registration fee covers all of your books and materials. You will receive these on the first night of class.

Q: How far in advance do I need to register?

A: Introduction to Judaism registration varies. In some classes there is room until the day the class begins, others fill up weeks before the course is due to start. If there is a particular class that you want to be in, try to send your registration at least 4 weeks prior to the start of that particular course.

Q: What is a Referring Rabbi and do I need one?

A: Please note that we ask each participant/couple enrolling in Introduction to Judaism to have a sponsoring clergy relationship with a rabbi or cantor to guide and support you as you learn about Judaism. Your selected rabbi or cantor will help personalize the course and respond to any personal religious questions that may come up for you as you integrate this learning experience with your own personal faith background. We encourage you to meet with your sponsoring clergy several times during the course. Our Reform clergy look forward to working with our Introduction to Judaism students to personalize the classroom experience and to meet with you to respond to questions you may have about Jewish life, belief and practice. All of our clergy anticipate receiving calls from our students asking them to be clergy sponsors. We are happy to provide recommendations if you do not already have a relationship with a rabbi or cantor. Please call us at 781-449-0404 x12 to facilitate your connection with a referring rabbi.

Q: Is there a lot of "homework" for this course?

A: While there are weekly reading assignments, there are no papers or exams for this course. There are short exercises to help you become familiar with the Hebrew alphabet that should take no more then 10-15 minutes per chapter. Lastly, we recommend that participants keep a "journal" - a record of one's exploration of Judaism. The class binder includes several journal assignments on specific topics that can be answered in a couple of short paragraphs.

Q: Will I receive some sort of certificate at the end of this course?

A: Participants who miss no more then 3 sessions will receive certificates of completion for the course.