Mazal 15-16 Web Layout 1

MaZAL . Mount Zion Adult Learning 5776 - 2015/2016

How our Adult Education Inside this brochure are classes and one-time programs for all kinds of learners. Browse and find something that sparks your curiosity. Program is Organized More offerings are still being planned for the year. Our adult education offerings are divided into three categories, corresponding to the Reform . AvodahWorship e three core values of Mount Zion’s vision: Judaism Beyond the Basics – What Do ^ Jews Believe? TORAH vru, From Torah and Talmud to Today Our Bodies, Our Souls What we believe, from our theology to our values, impacts what we do every A Taste of Honey: 19th Annual Jewish Retreat for Women Life-long Learning t day. We began this series of classes two years ago focused on topics from tat- An Introduction to Judaism Sacred Texts t Hebrew toos to cremation. This year we will continue to examine other questions of personal choice and belief where Judaism may influence our decisions and Member: $36, Public: $75 In the Image: In this category, you will find courses, views. Regardless of your own choices, you will leave these classes better in- lectures, and discussions on Torah and other Mondays, October 12 - December 28 Jewish Women and Art formed. All are welcome regardless of level of Jewish knowledge. Hebrew sacred Jewish literature. You will also find texts will be used in part but will be fully translated. Talmudic texts will be 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. lessons at all levels in the Hebrew language Friday Evening to Saturday Evening used in each session along with Reform Jewish statements and responsa (rab- Rabbi Esther Adler through which we are best able to access these binic, scholarly answers to contemporary issues and questions). These classes Save the Date: January 22-23, 2016 sacred texts. This course provides students are open to the public. Each session is a stand-alone class, but themes will with a basic understanding of emerge from attending all of them. Jewish practice and belief. AVODAH vsucg Topics include Jewish history, Men’s Retreat About Everything! life cycle, Shabbat, theology, Worship t Liturgy t Spirituality Wed, Oct 28, 7:30-9pm Rabbi Spilker home observance and more! Save the Date: Here you will find classes covering topics on Come study “A Statement of Principles for Reform Judaism (1999)”. This is the If you are interested in Friday-Sunday, May 13-15, 2016 religion and spirituality, including liturgy, fourth such statement in over 100 years! Previous ones were in 1885, 1937, and learning more about Judaism life-cycles, theology, holiday rituals, and Jew- 1975. The headlines range from God to Torah to Israel. If you want the one-stop- and/or thinking about ish music and chanting. Through these session to learn what Reform Jews believe, this is the session for you. conversion. Completion of offerings, we enrich our spirituality and the the Taste of Honey class is a meaning of our worship services. Physician Assisted Suicide requirement for conversion. Mon, Nov 16, 7-8:30 pm Rabbi Spilker GEMILUT CHASADIM What is Physician Assisted Suicide? What are the Jewish ways of understanding ohsx j ,ukhnd end-of-life decision making and how to balance quality of life with the value of life? Mon, Nov 30, 7-8:30 pm Shabbat Shuvah - Mussar for Thought Acts of Loving Kindness and A doctor and lawyer meet a rabbi to discuss the practical decision making that some may face. Friday, September 18 Justice t Social Action t Community Issues t Dying, Death, and Mourning: A Practicum Before You Need It 6:15 p.m. The Making of a Mensch Culture & Israel Mon, Feb 29, 7-8:30 pm Rabbi Adler 13 minute film by the director of “the Tribe” Tiffany Shlain, followed by discussion In this grouping, we have gathered a variety How do I know if I’m doing the right thing? Jewish Views on Death and led by Rabbi Spilker. The film is based on the teaching of Mussar. of learning experiences from the treasure trove Dying and Mourning Shabbat for the Soul / Mussar for Thought - We will of Jewish culture, history, politics, and art, 7:30 p.m. Shabbat for the Soul in Johnson Social Hall follow this schedule: a reflective, meditative session seeking ways to better connect to one another, Mon, Mar 14, 7-8:30 pm A Shabbat service with a different atmosphere, designed to touch our souls in new about Mussar before services and a more intimate to our spiritual home in Israel, and to the The Funeral Home – A Visit to Hodroffs Funeral Home ways. This service will be led by clergy, professional musicians, and members from Shabbat service either in Johnson Social Hall or Mar- American society in which we live. our Guitar Corps. golis Hall on Fridays, October 30, December 18, Mon, Apr 4, 7-8:30 pm March 18, and May 20 To register for any class, go to Preparing for Dying: Creating Your Health Directive www.mzion.org or contact Julie A doctor, lawyer, and rabbi offer some practical and soulful advice. About our name: MaZAL Beckman at [email protected] The word mazal, often pronounced with a Yiddish inflection, “mazel” as in “mazel tov,” comes from the Hebrew word which means “luck”. In truth, the word means “a group of stars’ or a “constellation.” Medieval Jews paid close attention to the “mazalot,” the constellations, and in fact, we find representation of the constellations through- out the ancient Jewish world. Jews have always found meaning in astrology, as it represented the vast possibilities of the world created by God. As countless are the stars in the night sky, so too, are the paths of Jewish study. As we partake in adult Jewish learning, we offer a few of those paths, leaving many more for tomorrow. It is our The MaZAL Program has been dedicated by Joan and Richard Newmark through a generous gift MaZAL to learn. Come learn and enjoy! in memory of their parents, Rose and Sol Friedman & Anne and Nathan Newmark. .Torah . Gemilut ChasadimActs of eLoving Kindness & Justice What Makes Food Jewish? Israel Book Discussions A Scholar-in-Residence Weekend - November 19-22 Meet in the Mount Zion Library Torah at the Center... Join us for an engaging conversation about Israeli life through its liter- Tina Wasserman ature. Even if you cannot read the book in advance, you are welcome. Every week, three times to study Torah. author of the new, bestselling cookbook, Questions? Contact Charles at [email protected] or Jonathan at Entrée to Judaism: A Culinary Exploration of the Jewish Diaspora [email protected]. Stop by anytime. Between Friends by Amos Oz No experience/background necessary. Monday, September 21, 7 p.m.

"The mind is a place Oz explores master- fully in all its contradiction, texture and heartache. Between Friends paints the daily lives behind utopian dreams, fully realized.” -New York Daily News Thursday: Genesis with Rashi Schedule for the Year November 2: Let it be Morning by Kashua Sayed Torah Mondays Rabbi Adam Stock Spilker January 4: The Garden of Ruth by Eva Etzioni-Halevy Rabbi Esther Adler 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. (ongoing) March 7: Closing the Sea by Yedudit Katzir 12:00-1:00 p.m. (ongoing) 220 S. 6th St., Suite 1800 Minneapolis May 2: The Smile of the Lamb by David Grossman at Mount Zion Temple (US Bank Building) Thursday, November 19, 6 p.m. July 11: The One Facing Us by Ronit Matalon Fill your spirit with food for the soul over lunch in a Special, exclusive event at Brasserie Zentral Restaurant ( Minneapolis) September 11: The Blue Mountain by Meir Shalev Take a lunch break from your busy life and join this downtown conference room. Study the book of Genesis with Chef Russell Klein (Tina’s nephew and owner of Zentral). A full, four- November 7: Returning Lost Loves by Yehoshua Kehaz Torah discussion. We read through the text and com- the way it has been studied for centuries, with the great course dinner with wine pairings and commentary from Russell Klein and mentaries, and respond with our own experiences, ideas, commentator Rashi as our guide. Come once or regularly Tina Wasserman. Look for invitation by mail for pricing and RSVP. Climate Change and Social Justice: and events of the day to illuminate the intricate rela- and enjoy the camaraderie of a chevruta, the Talmudic way tionships that evolved among our ancestors. We are cur- of learning with one’s friends and colleagues. Friday, November 20, 7:30 p.m. During Services Actions at the Intersections rently studying the weekly Haftarah portions. Beyond Brisket and Bagels: 1492 and its impact on world cuisine. Bring Your Lunch! Mon., October 12, 7-9:15 p.m. Bring Your Lunch! After services, the Oneg will includes desserts from her talk. at Pilgrim Lutheran Church (1935 St. Clair Ave, St Paul) Saturday, November 21 Mon., October 26 (tentative) at Masjid An Nur in Minneapolis 1 p.m.: What makes food Jewish? Food as Memory 7 p.m.: Thanksgiving and Chanukah Recipes: A Demo Class. Stewardship is a common theme in Look for invitation by mail for pricing and RSVP. many religions and spiritual traditions. What does it really mean? Respect, Sunday, November 22 relationship, compassion, tending, right Making Challah and Learning its History For all Religious School conduct, non-injury to the earth and it's students and parents. (Part of Bread and Torah Program). creatures… As stewards and active community members we want to know: Shabbat-Open Torah Study • What does our faith require of us? Great Expectations: • What do just actions look like? Studying the weekly Torah portions with our Rabbis. • How are threats such as climate change and social justice 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. (ongoing) at Mount Zion Temple A Program for Expecting Parents interconnected? Sunday, March 6, 9:30 a.m - 10:30 a.m. (No Cost) This weekly study group is open to regular attendees and those who are able to drop in once Explore these questions and discover new opportunities for "Actions at Cantor Jennifer Strauss-Klein or periodically -- people of all ages, knowledge and background. Through reading and the Intersections." Together we will learn more about Climate Change discussion of the weekly parashah/Torah portion, participants will learn the stories of Torah Great Expectations is an opportunity for expectant individuals and and Social Justice as framed by the host congregation and will also hear and make them come alive in their own lives. couples to gather in an intimate setting for a Jewish perspective about on the ground opportunity to engage in Socially Just Community on pregnancy, birth, baby namings, briss and what it means to be Solar initiatives. a new parent. Participants will be able to share their concerns, For more details, including registration, go to mzion.org. Contact questions and ideas as well as get advice about prayers to bring to [email protected] or [email protected] with any questions. the hospital, Hebrew names and ways to connect to the synagogue Co-sponsored by MNIJP (Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light), SPIN (St. Paul and Judaism with their new families. Interfaith Network), Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, and Mount Zion Temple 2 Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time 7 . Gemilut ChasadimActs ofe Loving Kindness & Justice .Torah

Food for Thought Learn Hebrew This Year! . E-Study Learn and Nosh before Shabbat Services Follow synagogue services, be more Taste of Melton involved in your children’s Jewish Tues., Sept.8, 7:00-8:30 p.m. at Adath Jeshurun 5:45 - 6:15 p.m. Gathering and a Light Nosh education, or simply enhance your own 6:15 - 7:15 p.m. Food for Thought Discussions ties to Judaism. Explore the hows, whats and whys Discussion over wine, juice, and light appetizers. of Jewish living through the Child care available. Tuition per class (includes all materials): Florence Melton School of Adult Who? Reform Jews committed to having Judaism inform their daily lives. Jewish Learning. Come for a Third Friday of the Month $75 members/$100 non-members October-April (except December) (Minimum 5 students for all classes). Congregational officers, board members, committee chairs and adult learners are “taste”and meet the teachers, sample encouraged to participate. a lesson, and experience Melton’s text-based, discussion oriented October 9: When Judaism and Neuroscience Speak the Same Language approach in a free sample class. What? 10 minutes a day of personal connection to a Jewish text, issue David Alter, PhD Introduction to Hebrew or topic. Each day has a separate theme: This two-year course is ideal for those looking to deepen their Weds., October 21 – January 13, 4:30 – 5:45 p.m. (ten classes) Monday - Reform Voices of Torah understanding of the basics of Judaism and Jewish living. Each les- 4:30 – 5:45 p.m. Hebrew Reading Crash Course son is designed to inspire and enlighten students irrespective of their Tuesday - Celebrating Jewish Arts and Culture Instructor: Siana Goodwin Wednesday - Israel Connections prior experience or background. Learn the aleph-bet, Hebrew letter and sound recognition, Thursdays - Throwback Thursday Classes for year one of this wonderful program will begin basic words and phrases related to our liturgy. Friday - Weekly news updates on Monday, October 12 and run through early May. Each weekday morning (Monday-Friday) an e-mail will be de- Melton in the Twin Cities is sponsored by Hineni of the Talmud November 13: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m. Aleph Isn’t Tough How? livered to your inbox for you to study at your convenience. Torah of St. Paul, in partnership with local agencies and synagogues. Building a Dementia Friendly Community Instructor: Kent Simon Betsy Ellis and Chris Rosenthal Introduction to the aleph-bet, basic grammar and Hebrew For more info or to RSVP for the Taste of Melton, please contact Study that Matches Your Lifestyle - Sign up at roots. Acquire the tools to start decoding our Hebrew texts. www.urj.org/learning/torah/ten. Sara Lynn Newberger at [email protected] or 651-698-8807. NEW THIS YEAR! TORAH ON THE WEB: Hebrew Reading Practice, Part 2 www.urj.org/torah - An excellent commentary on the Torah portion. January 16: For those familiar with the aleph-bet, we will be reading from the www.urj.org/shabbat - The Reform Movement’s weekly commentary designed to inspire discussions at your Shabbat table. Tzedek – Timely Discussion(s) on the theme of Justice - Martin Tanakh, learning to recognize word roots and constructions and www.urj.org/learning/torah/ten - 10 Minutes of Torah - Receive Luther King, Jr Weekend. increasing familiarity with Hebrew words, phrases, and rhythms. weekly emails of Torah commentary and reflections on current events February 19, March 18, April 15 Sundays, October 11 – January 10, 9:45-11:00a.m. (ten classes) (see below). Instructor: Siana Goodwin www.urj.org/torah/ten/eilu/ A point/counterpoint model with dialogue between two scholars and provides for your active th Symposium marking the 50 anniversary of the Second Gaza, the IDF Code of Ethics, participation. Vatican Council's Nostra Aetate: Declaration on the and the Morality of War Introduction to Hebrew Part II www.myjewishlearning.com - Resource on everything from holidays Relationship of the Church to Non-Christian Religions Wednesdays, January 20 – March 30 (ten classes) to mysticism. Moshe Halbertal, NYU Law School, Hebrew University October 12 (afternoon sessions, evening banquet, and keynote address) Sunday, November. 1, 7:30 p.m. October 13 (morning sessions) at Beth El Synagogue (5225 Barry St. W., St. Louis Park) 4:30 – 5:45 p.m. Hebrew Reading Practice Save the date: University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN Instructor: Siana Goodwin What moral and legal principles should guide an army in a complex Solidify your Hebrew skills with practice reading aloud from our Saturday, February 6, 2016 Speakers: Mary C. Boys, Catherine Cornille, Peter Feldmeier, confrontation that involves a tragic loss of civilian life and other major siddur. Includes some basic vocabulary and grammar. St. Paul Jewish Community night of learning at Sandra Keating, Ruth Langer, Bradley Malkovsky, Anantanand collateral damage? What values has the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Talmud Torah of St. Paul. Rambachan, Mark Unno, and Homayra Ziad committed itself to uphold in times of war? How do we arrive at an 6:00 – 7:15 p.m. Aleph Isn’t Enough ENGAGE with top notch teachers in an honest account of what actually happened in Gaza, in light of com- As four religions other than Christianity - Hinduism, Buddhism, Instructor: Kent Simon evening of lively Jewish learning. Rabbis, peting moral considerations and the realities that Israel faced? In the Islam, and Judaism - are mentioned (in that order) in Nostra Aetate, Expand your knowledge of basic Hebrew with reading practice university professors and lay leaders share their wake of the Gaza war, what lessons can Israel learn, the symposium will have four sessions devoted respectively to Hindu- for improved speed and pronunciation, more grammar, and vo- passions in a wide array of classes. Christian relations, Buddhist-Christian relations, Muslim-Christian and how should Israel proceed? cabulary building. relations, and Jewish-Christian relations. Each of these sessions will Moshe Halbertal is the Gruss Professor at NYU Law School, feature two lectures - one by a Catholic scholar and one by a scholar a Professor of Jewish Thought and Philosophy at the Hebrew To register for all classes, go to mzion.org. from another religion - followed by a discussion. In addition to the University, a Professor of Law at IDC and a member of Israel’s “The golden key to Jewish education is these four sessions, there will be a banquet and a keynote address on National Academy for Sciences and the Humanities. He Note: If you are interested in learning basic Hebrew but these times don’t work for you, or if you have questions about our Hebrew offerings, the overall theme of the symposium. served as a visiting professor at Harvard Law School, Univer- the Hebrew Language.” sity of Pennsylvania Law School and Yale Law School, and please contact Siana Goodwin at [email protected]. -- Hayyim Nahman Bialik, Things Known by Heart, 1935. For more details go to stthomas.edu/jpc. was a fellow at the Society of Fellows at Harvard University.

6 Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time 3 .Torah . AvodahWorship e Engaging Torah A Weekend in Memory of Jane Steinman

Scholar-in-Residence with Michael Carasik, author of The Commentators’ Bible When our beloved past Executive Director died five years ago, friends and family established a fund in her memory. Jane’s family asked that the fund be used to bring the gift of music - specifically to engage our Thursday-Shabbat, Oct 22-24, 2015 children - to our community. We are pleased to welcome Ellen Allard for this special Shabbat and weekend.

Please join us for intergenerational worship and learning with our Artist-in-Residence, Ellen Allard Song, Spirit, and Celebration Friday-Sunday, November 6-8 Ellen Allard, multi-award winning recording artist, composer, performer, and educator, is one of the most popular and influential Jewish musicians and educators on today’s vibrant contemporary Jewish music scene. Widely Ellen Allard recognized for her appeal to audiences of all ages, Ellen’s songs have become the gold standard when it comes to engaging children and adults of all ages Thursday, Oct 22 (12-1:15 p.m.) - RASHI AND HIS FRIENDS and helping them strengthen their Jewish identities. With a strong com- With the Rashi Study Group and Open to All mitment to building community through music, Ellen has a unique, charis- New Location: Fredrikson and Byron - 200 South Sixth Street - Suite 4000 matic, charming, and heartwarming way of inviting audiences to sing along, In memory of William “Bill” Kampf on his 10th Yahrzeit; Founder of Rashi Study Group and Mount Zion Past-President whether performing a concert, facilitating a student or teacher workshop, or leading a worship service. He’s famous, he’s fabulous, he’s French — and he is the greatest of all Jewish scholars of Bible and of Talmud, too. He is R. Solomon Isaacs (1040-1105), who under the name of Rashi has been the ordinary Jew’s guide through Torah and Talmud for the last 900 years. Along the way, we will meet his famous grandson, Rashbam; Rashbam’s Friday, November 6: antagonist, Abraham ibn Ezra; and Nahmanides, who some say was responsible for uniting all four men on the pages of the Rabbinic 6:30 p.m. Bible. We will then look at the verse of the week from Genesis 25 with new insight. Ellen joins with our clergy, Shir Tzion, and Shir Chants in a powerful, uplifting Shabbat experience for all ages. LIFE AND TIMES OF THE COMMENTATORS’ BIBLE 8:00 p.m. Shabbat - Friday, Oct 23 (7:30 pm-During Shabbat Services) Congregational Dinner honoring Jane Steinman The first words of the Commentators’ Bible were written on September 11th, 2001. You’ll learn about how the Commentators’ Bible (see mzion.org for more information and to RSVP.) was created and designed and get a peek inside the process of creating the Genesis volume. (And you’ll find out why that volume comes last!) Saturday, November 7: THE BIBLE’S MANY VOICES 5:00 p.m. Shabbat - Saturday, Oct 24, 1:00 p.m. S’eudat shlishit (Third meal of Shabbat) picnic (bring your own vegetarian, nut-free dinner) Dr. Carasik will also lead the 9 am Torah Study on the weekly portion Lech Lecha The Bible in English, as most of us encounter it, all “sounds the same.” It was translated at more-or-less the same time by people of 6:00 p.m. similar backgrounds (and indeed sometimes by a single person). But the actual Bible is in Hebrew, not English, and it collects material Havdalah service and Tot program (co-sponsored with PJ Library) that was composed over a period of 1,000 years. This talk will introduce you to some of the many voices clamoring for their say in Ellen leads us in a “PJ Havdalah Party” with songs, milk and cookies, the Bible, sometimes harmonizing and sometimes in discord. You will not look at the Bible the same way again after hearing it. and a bedtime story! If you like, wear your PJs and bring your Award-winning recording artist, educator, special blankie, stuffed animal, or pillow! and children’s performer Michael Carasik, PhD, is the author/translator of The Commentators’ Bible: The Rubin JPS Miqra’ot Gedolot. He teaches Biblical Hebrew at the University of Pe nnsylvania and is the Sunday, November 8: To learn more about Ellen or hear samples weekday Torah reader at Historic Congregation Kesher Israel in Center City Philadelphia. He re- 11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. of her music, go to: ceived his Ph.D. in Bible and the Ancient Near East from Brandeis University, and has taught at Ellen leads an intergenerational tefillah (prayer service) ellenallard.com various universities. His weekly ‘’Torah Talk’’ podcast is available at mcarasik.wordpress.com. with participation of Shir Tzion, Shir Chants, and YOU!

4 Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time 5 .Torah . AvodahWorship e Engaging Torah A Weekend in Memory of Jane Steinman

4 Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time 5 . Gemilut ChasadimActs ofe Loving Kindness & Justice .Torah

Hineni: Food for Thought Learn Hebrew This Year! . E-Study A Center for Adult Jewish Learning and Contemplative Learn and Nosh before Shabbat Services Follow synagogue services, be more Practices at the Talmud Torah of St. Paul involved in your children’s Jewish 5:45 - 6:15 p.m. Gathering and a Light Nosh education, or simply enhance your own Hineni believes that engaging with Jewish teachings 6:15 - 7:15 p.m. Food for Thought Discussions ties to Judaism. and practices challenges the mind, inspires the Discussion over wine, juice, and light appetizers. imagination, touches the soul, enriching individuals, Child care available. (includes all materials): communities, and the world. Hineni offers many classes, deep Tuition per class Reform Jews committed to having Judaism inform their daily lives. learning, and spiritual direction. More details at Third Friday of the Month $75 members/$100 non-members Who? October-April (except December) Congregational officers, board members, committee chairs and adult learners are ttsp.org/hineni/our_program (Minimum 5 students for all classes). October 9: encouraged to participate. When Judaism and Neuroscience Speak the Same Language What? 10 minutes a day of personal connection to a Jewish text, issue David Alter, PhD Introduction to Hebrew or topic. Each day has a separate theme: Weds., October 21 – January 13, 4:30 – 5:45 p.m. (ten classes) Monday - Reform Voices of Torah 4:30 – 5:45 p.m. Hebrew Reading Crash Course Tuesday - Celebrating Jewish Arts and Culture Instructor: Siana Goodwin Wednesday - Israel Connections Symposium marking the 50th anniversary of the Second Learn the aleph-bet, Hebrew letter and sound recognition, Thursdays - Throwback Thursday Friday - Weekly news updates Vatican Council's Nostra Aetate: Declaration on the basic words and phrases related to our liturgy. Relationship of the Church to Non-Christian Religions November 13: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m. Aleph Isn’t Tough How? Each weekday morning (Monday-Friday) an e-mail will be de- Building a Dementia Friendly Community Instructor: Kent Simon livered to your inbox for you to study at your convenience. October 12 (afternoon sessions, evening banquet, and keynote address) Betsy Ellis and Chris Rosenthal October 13 (morning sessions) Introduction to the aleph-bet, basic grammar and Hebrew Study that Matches Your Lifestyle - Sign up at University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN roots. Acquire the tools to start decoding our Hebrew texts. www.urj.org/learning/torah/ten. Speakers: Mary C. Boys, Catherine Cornille, Peter Feldmeier, NEW THIS YEAR! Sandra Keating, Ruth Langer, Bradley Malkovsky, Anantanand TORAH ON THE WEB: Rambachan, Mark Unno, and Homayra Ziad Hebrew Reading Practice, Part 2 www.urj.org/torah - An excellent commentary on the Torah portion. As four religions other than Christianity - Hinduism, Buddhism, January 15: For those familiar with the aleph-bet, we will be reading from the www.urj.org/shabbat - The Reform Movement’s weekly commentary designed to inspire discussions at your Shabbat table. Islam, and Judaism - are mentioned (in that order) in Nostra Aetate, Tzedek – Timely Discussion(s) on the theme of Justice - Martin Tanakh, learning to recognize word roots and constructions and the symposium will have four sessions devoted respectively to Hindu- www.urj.org/learning/torah/ten - 10 Minutes of Torah - Receive Luther King, Jr Weekend. increasing familiarity with Hebrew words, phrases, and rhythms. Christian relations, Buddhist-Christian relations, Muslim-Christian weekly emails of Torah commentary and reflections on current events relations, and Jewish-Christian relations. Each of these sessions will February 19, March 18, April 15 Sundays, October 11 – January 10, 9:45-11:00a.m. (ten classes) (see below). feature two lectures - one by a Catholic scholar and one by a scholar Instructor: Siana Goodwin www.urj.org/torah/ten/eilu/ A point/counterpoint model with from another religion - followed by a discussion. In addition to the Gaza, the IDF Code of Ethics, dialogue between two scholars and provides for your active these four sessions, there will be a banquet and a keynote address on participation. the overall theme of the symposium. and the Morality of War Introduction to Hebrew Part II www.myjewishlearning.com - Resource on everything from holidays Wednesdays, January 20 – March 30 (ten classes) to mysticism. For more details go to stthomas.edu/jpc. Moshe Halbertal, NYU Law School, Hebrew University Sunday, November. 1, 7:30 p.m. at Beth El Synagogue (5225 Barry St. W., St. Louis Park) 4:30 – 5:45 p.m. Hebrew Reading Practice Save the date: ‘Sing Unto God’ Instructor: Siana Goodwin Debbie Friedman and the Crucial Era in What moral and legal principles should guide an army in a complex Solidify your Hebrew skills with practice reading aloud from our Saturday, February 6, 2016 confrontation that involves a tragic loss of civilian life and other major American Jewish Liturgical Change siddur. Includes some basic vocabulary and grammar. St. Paul Jewish Community night of learning at collateral damage? What values has the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Talmud Torah of St. Paul. with Judah M. Cohen, Indiana University committed itself to uphold in times of war? How do we arrive at an 6:00 – 7:15 p.m. Aleph Isn’t Enough ENGAGE with top notch teachers in an Monday, June 27, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. at Mount Zion honest account of what actually happened in Gaza, in light of com- Instructor: Kent Simon evening of lively Jewish learning. Rabbis, Sponsored by the University of Minnesota Center for Jewish Studies and Mount Zion peting moral considerations and the realities that Israel faced? In the Expand your knowledge of basic Hebrew with reading practice university professors and lay leaders share their wake of the Gaza war, what lessons can Israel learn, In this talk, we take a new look at the early career and music of for improved speed and pronunciation, more grammar, and vo- passions in a wide array of classes. composer/song leader Debbie Friedman (1951-2011). This presentation and how should Israel proceed? cabulary building. seeks to reassess Friedman as an artist and liturgist deeply engaged with Moshe Halbertal is the Gruss Professor at NYU Law School, new approaches to prayer that actively embraced major shifts taking place a Professor of Jewish Thought and Philosophy at the Hebrew To register for all classes, go to mzion.org. in American Jewish life. University, a Professor of Law at IDC and a member of Israel’s “The golden key to Jewish education is Note: If you are interested in learning basic Hebrew but these times Judah M. Cohen is the Lou & Sybil Mervis Professor of Jewish Culture and National Academy for Sciences and the Humanities. He don’t work for you, or if you have questions about our Hebrew offerings, the Hebrew Language.” Associate Professor of Musicology at Indiana University. His research and writing served as a visiting professor at Harvard Law School, Univer- please contact Siana Goodwin at [email protected]. -- Hayyim Nahman Bialik, Things Known by Heart, 1935. explores Jewish cultural expression as a dynamic and everchanging process, created sity of Pennsylvania Law School and Yale Law School, and and recreated over time by artists, religious leaders, philosophers, and activists. was a fellow at the Society of Fellows at Harvard University. 6 Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time 3 .Torah . Gemilut ChasadimActs of eLoving Kindness & Justice Beyond Brisket and Bagels: Israel Book Discussions What Really Makes Food Jewish? Meet in the Mount Zion Library Torah at the Center... A Scholar-in-Residence Weekend - November 19-22 Join us for an engaging conversation about Israeli life through its literature. Even if you cannot read the book in advance, you are welcome. Every week, three times to study Torah. Tina Wasserman Questions? Contact Charles at [email protected] or Jonathan at [email protected]. Stop by anytime. author of bestselling cookbooks, Entrée to Judaism: A Culinary Exploration of the Jewish Diaspora and Entrée to Judaism for Between Friends by Amos Oz No experience/background necessary. Families-Jewish Cooking and Kitchen Conversations with Children Monday, September 21, 7 p.m.

"The mind is a place Oz explores master- fully in all its contradiction, texture and heartache. Between Friends paints the daily lives behind utopian dreams, fully realized.” -New York Daily News Thursday: Genesis with Rashi Thursday, November 19, 6 p.m. Schedule for the Year Special, exclusive event at Brasserie Zentral Restaurant ( Minneapolis) with November 2: Let it be Morning by Kashua Sayed Torah Mondays Rabbi Adam Stock Spilker Chef Russell Klein (James Beard nominated owner of Zentral and Tina’s January 4: The Garden of Ruth by Eva Etzioni-Halevy nephew). A full, four-course dinner with wine pairings. Chef Klein and Tina Rabbi Esther Adler 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. (ongoing) March 7: Closing the Sea by Yedudit Katzir will relate stories about the dishes and share the Jewish history and connec- 220 S. 6th St., Suite 1800 Minneapolis 12:00-1:00 p.m. (ongoing) tions with the food. Look for invitation by mail for pricing and RSVP. May 2: The Smile of the Lamb by David Grossman at Mount Zion Temple (US Bank Building) July 11: The One Facing Us by Ronit Matalon Fill your spirit with food for the soul over lunch in a Friday, November 20, 7:30 p.m. During Services September 12: The Blue Mountain by Meir Shalev Take a lunch break from your busy life and join this downtown conference room. Study the book of Genesis Beyond Brisket and Bagels: 1492 and its Impact on World Cuisine. November 7: Returning Lost Loves by Yehoshua Kehaz Torah discussion. We read through the text and com- the way it has been studied for centuries, with the great After services, the Oneg will include desserts from her talk. mentaries, and respond with our own experiences, ideas, commentator Rashi as our guide. Come once or regularly Climate Change and Social Justice: and events of the day to illuminate the intricate rela- and enjoy the camaraderie of a chevruta, the Talmudic way Saturday, November 21 tionships that evolved among our ancestors. We are cur- of learning with one’s friends and colleagues. 1 p.m.: What makes food Jewish? The Stories Behind the Recipes Actions at the Intersections rently studying the weekly Haftarah portions. and the Recipes Behind the Stories. Bring Your Lunch! Mon., October 12, 7-9:15 p.m. Bring Your Lunch! Presentation and a hands-on activity! 3 p.m. (For Teens): A Latke Cook-off. at Pilgrim Lutheran Church (1935 St. Clair Ave, St Paul) 7 p.m.: Getting Reading for the Holidays; Delving into our Tradition Mon., October 26 (tentative) at Masjid An Nur in Minneapolis A Hands-On Evening of Cooking, Eating, and Camaraderie. Look for Stewardship is a common theme in invitation by mail for pricing and RSVP. many religions and spiritual traditions. Sunday, November 22 What does it really mean? Respect, Making a Six Braid Challah and Learning its History For all Reli- relationship, compassion, tending, right conduct, non-injury to the earth and it's gious School students and parents. (Part of Bread and Torah Program). creatures… As stewards and active community members we want to know: Shabbat-Open Torah Study • What does our faith require of us? Great Expectations: • What do just actions look like? Studying the weekly Torah portions with our Rabbis. • How are threats such as climate change and social justice 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. (ongoing) at Mount Zion Temple A Program for Expecting Parents interconnected? This weekly study group is open to regular attendees and those who are able to drop in once Sunday, March 6, 9:30 a.m - 10:30 a.m. (No Cost) Explore these questions and discover new opportunities for "Actions at or periodically -- people of all ages, knowledge and background. Through reading and Cantor Jennifer Strauss-Klein the Intersections." Together we will learn more about Climate Change discussion of the weekly parashah/Torah portion, participants will learn the stories of Torah Great Expectations is an opportunity for expectant individuals and and Social Justice as framed by the host congregation and will also hear and make them come alive in their own lives. couples to gather in an intimate setting for a Jewish perspective about on the ground opportunity to engage in Socially Just Community on pregnancy, birth, baby namings, briss and what it means to be Solar initiatives. a new parent. Participants will be able to share their concerns, For more details, including registration, go to mzion.org. Contact questions and ideas as well as get advice about prayers to bring to [email protected] or [email protected] with any questions. the hospital, Hebrew names and ways to connect to the synagogue Co-sponsored by MNIJP (Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light), SPIN (St. Paul and Judaism with their new families. Interfaith Network), Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, and Mount Zion Temple 2 Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time 7 MaZAL . Mount Zion Adult Learning 5776 - 2015/2016

Last year, 75 people participated in the year-long Mussar program. Many others said that they would sign up “next time!” We are pleased to say there is a next time. We have intro Mussar groups as well as classes for those who have already participated. NEW TO MUSSAR? Seeking Everyday Holiness – This is the program we offered last year. Through group discussion, text study, personal journaling, and spiritual practices, group members will explore the traits of humility, truth, equanimity, honor, order, responsibility, patience, moderation, and trust. There will also be webinars with inspiring Mussar teachers.

When? Two options both at Mount Zion: 1. Monday evenings (7-9 pm) ten sessions facilitated by Cantor Jennifer Strauss-Klein Oct 12, 26; Nov 9, 23; Dec 7, 21; Jan 11, 25; Feb 8, 22 2. Wednesday mornings (10-Noon) facilitated by Rabbi Esther Adler Oct 7, 21; Nov 4, 18; Dec 2, 16; Jan 6, 20; Feb 3, 17 Cost? The fee per person – including a book, materials, and webinars for the year is based on The Mussar Institute’s charge for u se of their program materials. We are offering a sliding scale. Choose the fee that feels most comfortable for you: $54 (scholarship option) or $118 (our true costs) or $180 (sustainer option). Additional support is available from our clergy.

ALREADY HAVE BACKGROUND IN MUSSAR? If you have already taken “Seeking Everyday Holiness”, you can sign up for “Continuing Mussar” which will start with “Middah of the Month” in September and transition to “Season of Mussar II” in January. Continuing Mussar - The Mussar Institute provides rich materials for Mussar study for anyone who has completed one or more courses with The Mussar Institute or has a solid foundation in Torah learning. Continuing Mussar will meet every other week from Sept through March. We will study the middot of repentance, joy, compassion, generosity, patience, forgiveness, simplicity, lovingkindness, strength, and faith.

When? Two options both facilitated by Julie Dean: 1. Sunday afternoons (4-6 pm) – in Uptown, Minneapolis, ALREADY FULL Sept 20; Oct 4, 18; Nov 1, 15, 29; Dec 13, 20; Jan 10, 24; Feb 7, 21; Mar 6, 20. 2. Monday evenings (7-9 pm) – held at Mount Zion Sept 21; Oct 5, 19; Nov 2, 16, 30; Dec 14, 21; Jan 11, 25; Feb 8, 22; Mar 7, 21. Cost? Like Seeking Everyday Holiness (see above) we are offering a sliding scale. Choose the fee that feels most comfortable for you: $72 (scholarship option) or $150 (our true costs) or $218 (sustainer option).

A TASTE OF M USSAR FOR EVERYONE! We will be offering “Mussar for Thought” sessions before Shabbat services a few times this year. These hour-long teaching/discussions/experiences are not a substitute for a practice but can give insight into Mussar and provide application for your life. These sessions are open to all and no RSVP is required. The Shabbat service after these sessions will be in one of our social halls to create a different prayer space and a more intimate, meditative service. Mussar for Thought: 6:15 pm | Shabbat for the Soul (Shabbat service); 7:30 pm Fridays: September 18, October 30; December 18; March 18; May 20.

WHY MUSSAR?

Do you ever wonder:  What really matters in life?  How do I incorporate Jewish values into everyday life?  Can I find more “real” relationships with peers?  Is there a Jewish way to meditate?

Mussar offers a Jewish pathway into leading a more meaningful, spiritually fulfilled life. Mussar means “instruction.” It is a treasury of Jewish teachings and practices that have evolved over the past thousand years. It is a spiritual practice aimed at elevating one’s character and providing guidance for our life journey. At the center of the program is the inspiring material in Everyday Holiness, written by Alan Morinis. Working with this text, participants become exposed to the core teachings of the Mussar tradition and its relevance to everyday life. The Mussar Institute has partnered with the Reform Movement to teach Mussar in congregations. Mussar can work for people of any age, Jewish or not Jewish. Perhaps you?