Jewish Study at CSFA
Ongoing Jewish study—Torah, Talmud, Megillot, Hebrew language, the prayerbook, Torah and Haftarah trope, holidays and observances and more—has been part of Jewish life for centuries. The thirst for Jewish knowledge has sustained our people through good times and bad throughout history, offering a vital counterweight to the preoccupation with material concerns and secular desires as well as to the temptation to give in to despair at difficult junctures in life. Torah study is considered to be one of the most important things a Jewish person can do, since it leads to a greater desire to perform good deeds and grow as a human being in all areas of life.
At CSFA, we provide study opportunities designed to appeal as many members of our community as possible. Rabbi Gaffney teaches a weekly course focusing on a different Jewish text each semester, and also conducts classes on Shabbat following services and Kiddush once a month; volunteer members teach courses Jewish reading and the 'Parashat ha'Shavuah' ('Portion of the Week') on a periodic basis; and we study Talmud on Thursday evenings in a group led by a seminary student. Throughout the year we also offer special workshops to familiarize ourselves with the special rituals associated with Jewish holidays; and don't miss the 'Crossfire' discussions which follow Sunday morning minyan services once a month. These usually focus on current and seasonal events, especially our relationship with the State of Israel and with the larger American social and political scene.
Below are our Spring course offerings:
THE JEWISH WAY OF LIFE: A SURVEY COURSE FOR ADULT JEWS*
taught by Rabbi Gaffney, meets on Monday evenings at 7:30 p.m. Rabbi Gaffney provides an overview of the many phases of Judaism ... its history, its world view, its ethical content and its ritual pattern and culture. The major turning points in Jewish history will be analyzed, as well as the structure of the siddur and the meaning and spirit of its major prayers. Also included is a discussion of the values that serve as the basis for Jewish holidays and festivals and aspects of Jewish thought and belief.
THE WISDOM OF THE SAGES: A DISCUSSION LED BY RABBI GAFFNEY*
meets monthly on Shabbat, following services and Kiddush. We focus on Pirkei Avot, a section of the Talmud that serves as a “how-to” book for ethical behavior and moral
living; “self-help” study guide; and treasure trove of ideas and ideals for all to cherish.
CSFA'S TALMUD STUDY CIRCLE* meets on Thursday evenings at 7:00. Under the leadership of Yehuda Hausman, a student at the Yeshivat Chovevei Torah Rabbinical School, we recently began a new tractate, Rosh HaShanah, which focuses on the Jewish calendar. This is an ideal time to join our group and enter the world of study and informed debate that formed Judaism as we know it and continues to keep it vital and dynamic in our own day. No Hebrew knowledge needed—beginners welcome!
*Our education programs are currently on summer hiatus and will resume after the fall holidays. Please watch this space or call the office for updated information as it becomes available.
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