Three Judaism Classes For the New Year

Person wearing a prayer shawl and kippah reading a prayer book in pews alone

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.

The Union for Reform Judaism and Reform congregations across North America offer a variety of educational classes, both online and in person, to help you explore and understand Judaism. Visit our Judaism Classes page to learn about all the offerings below and find a class that's right for you!

1. A Taste of Judaism®

Curious about Judaism? This three-session series is all about introducing you to what is delicious about Judaism: sacred stories, beliefs, values, and a diverse community. We have plenty of time for your questions! No previous knowledge of Judaism is assumed; this class was designed for "beginners," regardless of religious background. All are welcome: interfaith couples, individuals exploring conversion, people with Jewish heritage, in-laws and other family members of Jews, and anyone who wants to know a bit more about Judaism.

Whatever has sparked your curiosity, A Taste of Judaism® is a good place to start learning.

2. Introduction to Judaism

Introduction to Judaism is an engaging multi-session course for anyone interested in exploring Jewish life. In this class, you will explore a modern take on Jewish life; engage with Jewish values, celebrations, and spirituality; and ask questions to discover multiple perspectives.

Open to all, this course is designed for you, whether you are part of a Jewish+ or interfaith couple, an adult raising Jewish children, a spiritual seeker, considering conversion, or a Jew who wants a meaningful adult learning experience.

3. Learn to Read Hebrew

Learn the shapes and sounds of the Hebrew alphabet. A warm and supportive educator will guide you and your classmates as you practice your Hebrew together. This online course from the Union for Reform Judaism assumes no prior experience in reading Hebrew.

Visit our Judaism Classes page to learn about all our offerings or email learning@urj.org with questions.

About the Author

Kate Bigam Kaput

Kate Bigam Kaput (she/her) is a professional health and wellness writer living in Cleveland, OH, and the former assistant director of marketing and communications (messaging and branding) for the Union for Reform Judaism; in this role, she served as content manager and editor for ReformJudaism.org. A prolific essayist, Kate has written for The Washington Post, Cleveland Magazine, and more; her personal essays appear in the anthologies BODY TALK: 37 Voices Discuss Our Radical Anatomy and Living Jewishly: A Snapshot of a Generation.

View All Posts From Author

Search

an image of a man sitting on a rock looking out into the desert

Funny, You Don’t Look...

September 13, 2023

"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.

Together At Sinai: Four Conversion Stories

May 18, 2023

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

November 22, 2022

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.