Adult

Education & Engagement

At Temple Isaiah, we believe learning is a lifelong journey. Our Adult Education programs offer a chance to explore Jewish traditions, dive into meaningful conversations, and deepen your connection to our community. Whether you’re new to Jewish learning or have been studying for years, there’s something for everyone. Come join us for engaging classes, insightful discussions, and opportunities to grow—both spiritually and intellectually—in a warm and welcoming environment.

Tue, Nov 12, 2024 - 6:30 PM - 7:45 PM
More than 1200 years ago, the Masoretes, a group of Torah scribes and scholars, created two systems to aid in the interpretation and the oral presentation of Torah: the vowels (nikudot) and a system of cantillation (ta’amei mikra). We will learn how trope/cantillation helps to interpret the text and how to use the trope to bring Torah to life. In just a few short sessions with Cantor Randall Schloss, we will all learn how to chant Torah!
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Tue, Nov 12, 2024 - 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
In this three-part class we will attempt to answer the simple question, “What is Jewish Music?” As we answer, we will explore the rich diversity of musical traditions, from music of  prayer and the synagogue, klezmer, Jewish music theater, music of the middle east, classical traditions and more.
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Thu, Nov 14, 2024 - 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
A discussion with Professor Elyce Rae Helford, PhD (Director of Jewish and Holocaust Studies Minor at Middle Tennessee State University), on the fascinating story and legacy of the Billie Holiday song Strange Fruit and its Jewish author Abel Meeropol. We will talk about how the Meeoropols adopted Julius and Ethel Rosenberg's children and created the Rosenberg Fund for Children, run by granddaughter Jennifer to help children whose parents face political persecution. Meeropol also wrote the song "The House I Live In" which was made into a short video featuring young Frank Sinatra that won an academy award for its message of unity and against antisemitism.
Tue, Nov 19, 2024 - 6:30 PM - 7:45 PM
Did you think being a Reform Jew meant doing whatever you want? Think again! Responsa literature - in which rabbis answer questions about halacha (Jewish law) - is alive and well in Reform Judaism. Informed by Jewish law and Reform history, Reform Jewish Responsa instruct us how to approach cremation, Torah reading on a Friday night, celebrating Valentine's Day in the synagogue, and many other 21st century challenges that define our modern Jewish lives. Join Rabbi Frimmer for a serious examination of these questions and responses.
Thu, Nov 21, 2024 - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Description: Justice and redemption. Good vs. evil. Heroism and cowardice. The courage to boldly share one's vision with a dark and disillusioned world. These aren't just headlines from the 2024 election cycle; they are the well-worn teachings of our biblical prophets, passed down through the generations. Join Rabbi Jaclyn Cohen for this multi-session class exploring the wisdom of the prophets through a modern lens: what can Amos, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Micah and their peers teach us today? How can their stories guide us toward lives rooted in equality, purpose, and the pursuit of a more just society? No prior experience studying TaNaKh (Torah, Prophets, Writings) necessary. Open to adults of all ages. Participants will receive a copy of "The Prophets" by Abraham Joshua Heschel.
Sun, Nov 24, 2024 - 8:00 PM - 8:45 PM
Join for a quick monthly 45-minute gathering to explore the upcoming Jewish month and set our intentions and goals. We will use teachings from Rabbi Dalia Marx's new book "From Time to Time: Journeys in the Jewish Calendar", although it is not necessary for you to have the book to participate.
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Tue, Dec 03, 2024 - 6:30 PM - 7:45 PM
More than 1200 years ago, the Masoretes, a group of Torah scribes and scholars, created two systems to aid in the interpretation and the oral presentation of Torah: the vowels (nikudot) and a system of cantillation (ta’amei mikra). We will learn how trope/cantillation helps to interpret the text and how to use the trope to bring Torah to life. In just a few short sessions with Cantor Randall Schloss, we will all learn how to chant Torah!
Wed, Dec 04, 2024 - 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
For people in bereavement, a monthly gathering to share and learn with one another.
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Wed, Dec 04, 2024 - 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

A Conversation with Steve Oney, author of And the Dead Shall Rise: The Murder of Mary Phagan and the Lynching of Leo Frank. In 1913, 13-year-old Mary Phagan was found brutally murdered in the basement of the Atlanta pencil factory where she worked. The factory manager, a Jewish man named Leo Frank, was arrested, tried, and convicted in a trial that seized national headlines. When the governor commuted his death sentence, Frank was kidnapped and lynched by a group of prominent local citizens. This event shaped the development of the Anti-Defamation League and spurred the resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan. We will delve into the story with Steve Oney whose acclaimed account includes in depth detail and research, and a Dickensian pageant of characters.

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Thu, Dec 05, 2024 - 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Reweaving Our Lives is a community within Temple Isaiah of people who are living with or have lived with cancer.

We invite those who are living with or have lived with cancer to attend a unique gathering with the loving spirit of Cacao.

Immerse yourself in Cacao’s powerful heart-opening, clarity-inducing and love-infusing power for a 2.5 hours ceremony guided by Ido Grinberg.

Cacao is an ancient plant medicine that has been used ceremonially for thousands of years in different cultures like the Mayans and the Oztecs.

This plant allay teaches us to unlock our hearts and open our minds while guiding us to remember the true beauty of our souls.

This spiritual experience will include drinking the sacred medicine of cacao, guided meditation, music, herbal healing, sound healing, Zen wisdom teaching and more.

For anyone Jewish, 
Jew-ish
 or
Jew-curious.

Whether you want to learn more about Jewish culture, are considering converting to Judaism, or are eager to bring more Jewish into your life, the Miller Intro to Judaism Program is for you.

The Miller Introduction to Judaism Program is an 18-week course that provides fundamental knowledge, practical skills, and clarifying insights into Jewish culture. No matter your age or background, everyone is welcome to join Intro to Judaism and learn about the Torah and Judaism’s many rituals, values, and holidays. Each cohort will explore Judaism’s past, present, and future with guidance from a rabbi. Consider taking this Jewish class to find out more.

Learn more about what we cover in the course overview.

ChaiVillageLA, a program of Temple Isaiah and Temple Emanuel, has a full array of interesting, educational and fun events. All Temple adults are welcome to join in. 

View all Current ChaiVillageLA Programming

Inspiring Jewish stories performed by The Braid! Laugh, cry, and cheer at the stories of descendants of Holocaust survivors, LGBTQ+ Jews, and the shockingly unexpected. 

Learn More Here