Adult Education Powered by IJKL
About Adult Education powered by IJKL
At Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El, we believe that learning is a lifelong pursuit. Our Continuing Adult Education program offers a diverse range of classes and workshops designed to engage, inspire, and deepen our understanding of Jewish traditions, texts, and contemporary issues. This year, we have joined forces with the renowned Broward County-based Institute of Jewish Knowledge and Learning (IJKL) to offer weekly classes not only by our clergy but also by many other rabbis and scholars via Zoom. As it says in Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers) 4:1, “Who is wise? One who learns from everyone.” Embrace the wisdom of our tradition and the seventy faces of the Torah by learning from our diverse faculty.
Class Descriptions: Spring Semester 2025: January 6 – May 15
V = Virtual Class only without the option of in-person attendance
P = In-person only without the option of virtual attendance
Mondays
Unlocking the Mysteries of Kabbalah
Discover the mystical teachings of Judaism in this four-part series. Kabbalah, the spiritual heart of Jewish thought, explores the nature of God, the universe, and our inner world. Together, we’ll uncover the historical origins of Kabbalah, explore the sefirot (divine attributes), study foundational Kabbalistic texts, and learn how to apply these ancient teachings to modern life. Through this journey, you’ll gain insight into yourself, the natural world, and the divine.
Instructor: Rabbi Amy Grossblatt Pessah (V)
Mondays: 10:00am-11:00am (January 20, 27, February 3 and 10)
What is Karaite Judaism, and how does it differ from Rabbinic Judaism? Why is it so rarely discussed? In this engaging presentation, we’ll explore these questions and more, diving into the origins and practices of Karaite Judaism. Through a clear and accessible introduction, we’ll uncover the creative and thought-provoking interpretations of the Torah that distinguish Karaite Judaism from the traditions we are more familiar with. No prior knowledge is needed—this session is open to everyone! Join us for a fascinating journey into an often-overlooked branch of Judaism and discover unique, meaningful perspectives on Jewish life and identity.
Instructor: Henry Jacobson
Mondays: 10:00am–11:00am (March 10, 16, 24 and 31)
Tuesdays
Beginners Hebrew
Join us for an engaging and interactive beginners class in Hebrew! This course is designed for those with little to no prior knowledge of the Hebrew language. You’ll learn the basics of reading, writing, and speaking Hebrew, including the alphabet, essential vocabulary, and simple grammar. Whether you’re interested in enhancing your cultural understanding or preparing for travel, this class will provide a solid foundation in Hebrew. Come ready to learn and have fun!
Instructor: Jessica Kaplan (V)
Tuesdays: 8:00pm-9:00pm
Wednesdays
Bamidbar: A Physical Journey or Spiritual Pilgrimage
Our lives are a lot like the wanderings of the Israelites in the wilderness, as told in the book of Bamidbar. Some people spend their time trying to get from point A to point B – focusing on the physical journey. Others recognize that our journey can be more of a pilgrimage – a spiritual pilgrimage – if we allow ourselves to experience it in that way. In this course, we will explore how our own lives mirror the 40 years in the wilderness and how we can move forward physically as well as spiritually throughout our lives.
Instructor: Rabbi David Paskin (V)
Wednesdays: 10:30am-11:30am
Thursdays
Rabbis of the Talmud
Discover the most fascinating stories and teachings of the rabbis from the Talmud. Learn moral lessons that are still relevant today.
Instructor: Rabbi Uri Romano (V)
Thursdays: 9:15am-10:00am
Big Questions, Bold Discussions: Judaism in the Modern World
This engaging class explores today’s most pressing challenges through the lens of Jewish tradition and values. Using both traditional and modern texts, we’ll tackle complex and timely questions such as:
• Jewish Ethics and AI—Are robots kosher?
• Interfaith Marriage—A test of tradition or a new Jewish reality?
• Israel and Diaspora Jews—A love story or a complicated relationship?
• End-of-Life Choices—How do Jewish values guide us?
Together, we’ll connect ancient wisdom with modern dilemmas, sparking bold, thought-provoking conversations that inspire deeper understanding and reflection.
Instructor: Cantor, Rabbi Mark Goldman (V and P)
Thursdays: 10:30am-11:30am
Intermediate Hebrew
Join us for an engaging and interactive beginners class in Hebrew! This course is designed for those with little to no prior knowledge of the Hebrew language. You’ll learn the basics of reading, writing, and speaking Hebrew, including the alphabet, essential vocabulary, and simple grammar. Whether you’re interested in enhancing your cultural understanding or preparing for travel, this class will provide a solid foundation in Hebrew. Come ready to learn and have fun!
Instructor: Jessica Kaplan (V)
Tuesdays: 8:00pm-9:00pm
Fridays
Between the Lines of the Weekly Torah Portion
In this class, we will review the content of each Torah portion and then delve between the lines to find deeper and contemporary insights and meaning. While we will touch on some traditional commentaries, our main focus will be on the wonderful ideas of the late Rabbi Dr. Jonathan Sacks z”l.
Instructor: Rabbi Jeff Segelman (V)
Fridays: 10:30am-11:45am
Seminars
January-February: History of Zionism
When: Wednesdays, January 22, 29; February 5, 12, 19, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Description: Learn about the foundational ideas and writings of early Zionist thinkers such as Herzl, Leon Pinsker, Rav Kook, Moshe Hess, Jabotinsky, and Ben Gurion. Gain a deeper understanding of Israel today.
Sessions: 5
April: Passover – The Holiday of Freedom
When: Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Description: Engage with readings from modern Jewish philosophers to explore the meaning of freedom as celebrated during Passover.
Sessions: 2
Healing Services
Monthly Healing Services with Cantor, Rabbi Mark & Guests
Tuesdays: January 8, March 4, April 15 at 6:30pm. Optional Dinner follows
Description: We gather as a community to seek spiritual and physical renewal. Guided by the principles of Refuat Hanefesh (Healing of the Soul) and Refuat Haguf (Healing of the Body), these services provide a sacred space for reflection, connection, and healing.
Film Series
Jewish Film Series: New and Award-Winning Short Films & Discussion with Cantor, Rabbi Mark
When: October 22, November 19, December 18, February 26, March 25. 6:30-8:00pm
Description: Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking Jewish Film Series, featuring new and award-winning short films that highlight Jewish and Israeli themes. This series offers a unique opportunity to explore contemporary Jewish life, culture, and issues through the lens of talented filmmakers from around the world.
Speed Learning Event – September 22 2024 Highlights!
Faculty
(Senior Rabbi)
Rabbi Uri is a distinguished spiritual leader and educator with a profound commitment to enriching lives through the teachings of Judaism. Born in the vibrant city of Buenos Aires in 1989, his journey has been marked by a deep-rooted connection to his heritage and an unyielding passion for nurturing souls. His transformative journey began during his teenage years when he assumed the role of a madrich (youth leader) in the synagogue his parents played a pivotal role in establishing. This phase ignited his fervor for Judaism and a profound desire to share its wisdom with others. The foundations of [...]
(Cantor & Co-Senior Clergy)
Hailing from a lineage of Cantors, Cantor Rabbi Mark Goldman brings a deep passion for modern Judaism and notable accomplishments to our community. Born in London, he honed his Cantorial skills and earned an honors B.A. in Judaic Studies at the London School of Jewish Studies, becoming the youngest certified minister by the Chief Rabbi of the UK. Mark's career led him to Temple Beth El in Rochester, N.Y., where he fulfilled Cantorial duties and earned a Master of Music in Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music. His talents have taken him to synagogues and concert stages [...]
(Senior Rabbi)
Rabbi Jeffrey Segelman, a native of Boston, holds a B.A. from Boston University and a B.H.L. from Boston Hebrew College. He earned his M.A. and rabbinic ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary. Rabbi Segelman is the Rabbi Emeritus of the Westchester Jewish Center, where he served for 40 wondeful years. He currently serves on the faculty and is the Director of Field Placement at the Academy for Jewish Religion, a pluralistic seminary ordainingrabbis and cantors. Rabbi Segelman resides on the Upper West Side of Manhattan and has been teaching at IJKL since 2020.
(Senior Rabbi)
Rabbi Amy Grossblatt Pessah graduated magna cum laude from Washington University in St. Louis and holds a Master's degree in Jewish Education from HUC-JIR and ordination from ALEPH: Alliance for Jewish Renewal. She is a certified Jewish Spiritual Director and published author, with a passion for ritual, the written word, and ceramics. Her first book, "Parenting on a Prayer: Ancient Jewish Secrets for Raising Modern Children," was published in 2020. Rabbi Amy is dedicated to creating meaningful Jewish experiences and fostering spiritual growth within her community.
(Senior Rabbi)
Rabbi David Paskin, known as "Rabbi David," is an accomplished spiritual leader, singer/songwriter, entertainer, and award-winning Jewish educator. After two decades as a pulpit rabbi in Massachusetts and Florida, he transitioned to full-time Jewish education and currently serves as the Director of Youth Education at Temple Sinai of North Dade. Known as the "Rock n’ Roll Rabbi," David has composed numerous Jewish songs used nationwide. As the "Torah Tech Guy," he guides and trains clergy and educators in the best practices of using technology to foster meaningful connections in digital spaces. Rabbi David lives in Boca Raton, Florida, with [...]
Dr. Sandra Lilienthal is a distinguished adult Jewish educator, renowned for her engaging and insightful teachings. Passionate about Jewish education, she has dedicated her career to fostering a deeper understanding of Jewish traditions, history, and spirituality among adults. In 2015, Sandra received the Covenant Award for Excellence in Jewish Education. A sought-after speaker, she frequently presents a conferences, synagogues, and community events. She founded Wisdom Without Walls, an innovative online salon for Jewish ideas, offering meaningful conversations with leading Jewish thought leaders. Sandra's dynamic approach and ability to connect with diverse audiences make her a beloved figure in the [...]
Jessica Kaplan, originally from Argentina, is a dedicated Hebrew teacher with over 35 years of experience in Jewish Education. She has taught at various levels in Argentina, Canada, and Florida. Jessica holds certifications from CAJE Florida and Machon Greenberg le Morim in Jerusalem, and a Psychology degree from the University of Cordoba. Currently teaching at Lehrman Community School, Jessica has also worked at Hebrew Academy, Gordon School, and Temple Kol Ami as a reading specialist. She prepares B'nai Mitzvah students and teaches Hebrew to all ages, both in-person and via Zoom. Jessica enjoys spending time with her family, including [...]
At Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El, we believe that learning is a lifelong pursuit. Our Continuing Adult Education program offers a diverse range of classes and workshops designed to engage, inspire, and deepen our understanding of Jewish traditions, texts, and contemporary issues. In 2024, we proudly joined forces with the renowned Broward County-based Institute of Jewish Knowledge and Learning (IJKL) to offer weekly classes not only by our clergy but also by many other rabbis and scholars via Zoom.
“Ben Bag Bag said: Turn it over, and [again] turn it over, for all is therein. And look into it; And become gray and old therein; And do not move away from it, for you have no better portion than it.” (Pirkei Avot 5:22)
Our Rabbis teach us that at the age of five our Jewish formal education begins but it never ends. As we grow the Torah should grow together with us. At TKAE we believe in the value of “Talmud Torah” (Jewish learning) for all ages. We offer several classes and programs on a weekly basis and also special programs with scholars in residence and conferences throughout the year. As we take pride in being the “people of the book” we extend an invitation to all our members and non-members to take an opportunity on a regular basis to open some of the books of our tradition in search of wisdom and spiritual uplifting.
At Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El, we believe that learning is a lifelong pursuit. Our Continuing Adult Education program offers a diverse range of classes and workshops designed to engage, inspire, and deepen our understanding of Jewish traditions, texts, and contemporary issues. In 2024, we proudly joined forces with the renowned Broward County-based Institute of Jewish Knowledge and Learning (IJKL) to offer weekly classes not only by our clergy but also by many other rabbis and scholars via Zoom.
“Ben Bag Bag said: Turn it over, and [again] turn it over, for all is therein. And look into it; And become gray and old therein; And do not move away from it, for you have no better portion than it.” (Pirkei Avot 5:22)
Our Rabbis teach us that at the age of five our Jewish formal education begins but it never ends. As we grow the Torah should grow together with us. At TKAE we believe in the value of “Talmud Torah” (Jewish learning) for all ages. We offer several classes and programs on a weekly basis and also special programs with scholars in residence and conferences throughout the year. As we take pride in being the “people of the book” we extend an invitation to all our members and non-members to take an opportunity on a regular basis to open some of the books of our tradition in search of wisdom and spiritual uplifting.
“Ben Bag Bag said: Turn it over, and [again] turn it over, for all is therein. And look into it; And become gray and old therein; And do not move away from it, for you have no better portion than it.” (Pirkei Avot 5:22)
Our Rabbis teach us that at the age of five our Jewish formal education begins but it never ends. As we grow the Torah should grow together with us. At TKAE we believe in the value of “Talmud Torah” (Jewish learning) for all ages. We offer several classes and programs on a weekly basis and also special programs with scholars in residence and conferences throughout the year. As we take pride in being the “people of the book” we extend an invitation to all our members and non-members to take an opportunity on a regular basis to open some of the books of our tradition in search of wisdom and spiritual uplifting.
ADULT EDUCATION – SPRING 2024
A KALEIDOSCOPE OF JEWISH LEARNING
Please look at our menu of classes and sign up for one (or more) to receive further information.
To register:
Zoom:
Weekly classes
Monthly Walks
Join us during the year for our Sunday morning Walking Tour Programs. We’ll explore a wide variety of Jewish and South Floridian points of interest, culture and cuisine! This program is led by Cantor Mark and Valeria Michanie.
