Related Blog Posts on Classes and Learning and Introduction to Judaism

Introduction to Judaism: A Thriving Online Learning Community

Rabbi Ellen Nemhauser
If, a few years back, someone had told me that we could build an intimate online community of people exploring Judaism, I would have had my doubts. But with the very first Introduction to Judaism classes URJ launched in 2017, this idea has become a reality.
Person wearing a prayer shawl and kippah reading a prayer book in pews alone

Judaism Classes For the New Year

Kate Bigam Kaput
If one of your New Year's resolutions is to delve deeper into your Judaism, consider signing up for one of the Reform Jewish Movement's classes.
an image of a man sitting on a rock looking out into the desert

Funny, You Don’t Look...

Miguel L. Salazar
"What are you?" was a question I was often asked in New York City. At first, I did not understand. Having grown up in San Antonio, Texas during the Jim Crow era, there was no doubt in my mind. During Jim Crow, Americans were defined by their skin color. I was not Black, but neither was I white. Therefore, I reasoned, I must be Mexican.
am image of Mt. Sinai in the dessert

Together At Sinai: Four Conversion Stories

Crystal Hill
On Shavuot, many of us study the Book of Ruth. Lauded by Rabbinic tradition as a righteous convert, Ruth’s story continues to resonate with the experiences of many Jews-by-choice today.
female and male symbol combined and written with chalk

Affirming and Loving Transgender, Non-Binary, and Gender Expansive Grandchildren

Given these realities, the Union for Reform Judaism, Jewish Grandparents Network, and Keshet collaborated to create a series of conversations to support grandparents and other loving adults who are interested in providing affirming spaces for gender expansive, non-binary, and transgender young people. These sessions have provided grandparents with foundational knowledge, shared language, and inclusive practices.

At The Edge of the Water

Yanira Quiñones
As I stood at the top of the steps of the pool of warm water, I could feel my feet tingle with anticipation. The feeling slowly enveloped my body, moving steadily up my legs, to my core, my heart and my mind. The feeling did not agitate or annoy, it was like a blanket of calmness and serenity. I stood at the top of the steps looking down into the mikvah. I took a breath and descended slowly until I stood fully in the water.