Jewish Study Center
Course Schedule, Fall 2002

Classes by Night and Location

Mondays at the DCJCC
16th & Q Streets, NW

Beit Midrash (House of Study)
Mondays, beginning October 7, on-going
7:30 - 9:00 pm (PLEASE NOTE CHANGE from early notices)
Tuition free (donations welcome!)
Drop-in OK, pre-registration helpful
At the DCJCC; in cooperation with DC Minyan
" Find a teacher to challenge your answers.
Find a friend to challenge your questions."
So R. Rami Shapiro interprets Pirkei Avot 1:6, and here's an opportunity to do just that. Open a text for the first time. Delve more thoroughly into a favorite. Short, full group exploration of the portion of the week will be followed by ample chevruta learning (with a partner or two) in a text of your choice.
Pre-register to let us know your interests, by contacting Shira Fischer at DCBeitMidrash@hotmail.com.

Tuesdays at the DCJCC
16th & Q Streets, NW

Basic Judaism
Tuesdays, October 1 - December 3 (10 classes)
7:00 - 8:15 pm
Members $105/Non-members: $115
DCJCC
Discover--or rediscover--Judaism: Learn about the variety of Jewish practices, beliefs, and customs and discuss what it means to live a Jewish life. The class will include readings, discussion, and opportunities to experience Judaism directly, including synagogue attendance, Shabbat dinners, working with ritual objects, and celebrating Chanukah.
Bob Rovinsky is a Jewish storyteller who enjoys belonging to many of the Jewish communities of Washington, from Adas Israel to the Zoo Minyan. When not at home with his wife and two young daughters, at prayer, or studying, he can be found at the Federal Aviation Administration. He has previously taught many courses, including Basic Judaism, for the Study Center.

Shul Shopping 101
Tuesdays, October 15 - November 12 (5 classes)
8:30 - 9:45 pm
Members $45/Non-Member $55
DCJCC
This course will introduce participants to some of the variety in the local Jewish community. Field trips to area synagogues and minyanim/havurot (smaller or informal congregations) will offer Shabbat and other worship experiences from a range of denominational and post-denominational perspectives. Each class night will provide an opportunity to ask questions, compare, and discuss the visits.
Ken Goldstein is secretary and former president of the Jewish Study Center (non-denominational), a member of Adas Israel (Conservative), and a teacher at Temple Micah's (Reform) religious school.

Midrashim on Creation
Tuesdays, October 1 - October 29 (5 classes)
8:30 - 9:45 pm
Members $55/Non-Members $65
DCJCC
Midrashim are stories, speculations, observations, and arguments by the Rabbis, which expound, expand, apply, or supplement something in the text of the Bible. We will study sections in Midrash Rabba (an extensive collection of Talmudic-era midrashim) about the creation story in Genesis. These midrashim raise basic issues of Jewish values and philosophy. The class will be an opportunity for close study of a text, but it will be appropriate for total novices as well as for those who have studied midrash before. We will use a bilingual text, but some knowledge of Biblical Hebrew will be invaluable, even if not necessary.
Richard Friedman has taught classes at Ohr Kodesh and the National Havurah Committee's Summer Institute, as well as the Jewish Study Center. He is a lawyer with the federal government.

Discussions on Israel, Europe, and Fundamentalism
Tuesdays, October 15 - November 19 (6 classes)
7:00 - 8:15 pm
Israel Discussion, 10/15 and 11/19
European Discussion, 10/22 and 10/29
Fundamentalism Discussion, 11/5 and 11/2
Two-evening discussion: Members $20/Non-Members $25
Entire discussion series: Members $50/Non-members $60
DCJCC
During the Study Center's winter 2002 term, a group of participants began discussing their varying levels of involvement with the State of Israel and their wide-ranging views of the US-Israel relationship. As hoped, participants found both variety in their views and unity in their desire to learn from one another and to begin building bridges.
This term, new views will be explored and points of agreement and disagreement examined in more depth. In addition, the discussion extends to the related issues of rising anti-Semitism in Europe and the role of fundamentalist perspectives in European and Israeli conflicts.
Liana Brooks works in the Refugees Bureau at the State Department, has Masters Degrees in Middle Eastern Studies and Public Policy, and previously lived in Israel for three years. Brad Rubin is an international trade lawyer in D.C. and co-taught "Human Rights and Religion" for the Jewish Study Center. Eric Fusfield is Assistant Director for European Affairs at the American Jewish Committee and recently led the DCJCC's roundtable on "Kristallnacht, Jihad, or Old-Fashioned Anti-Semitism." Virginia Spatz is director of the Jewish Study Center and taught "Understanding the Battle for God" in the spring term.

Jews at the Wake:
FINNEGANS WAKE, part I
Tuesday, November 12 - December 10 (4 classes; no class November 26)
8:30 - 9:45 pm
Members $45/Non-members $55
DCJCC
Following the Study Center's "A Jewish Reading of James Joyce's Ulysses" and the DCJCC's 1999 "Jump for Joyce" -- the Study Center is prepared to offer its good offices both to Joyceans and to not-yet-Joycean who wonder what could be Jewish in a wake. Finnegans Wake, the toughest book in the English language? Not with this class, where together we'll enjoy Joyce and his text, exploring approximately half the book this fall (look for Part 2 in early 2003). Participants are encouraged to offer a ten minute presentation on anything of personal Joycean interest, for in this class, we know all things come full circle, and all topics eventually lead back to the Wake.
Rich Blaustein is a veteran Jewish Study Center teacher, whose many courses include two on Joyce's Ulysses.

Wednesdays at Adas Israel
2850 Quebec Street, NW

The Founding of the
State of Israel: A History
October 2 - November 20 (8 weeks)
7:00 - 8:15 pm
Members $85/Non-Members $95
Adas Israel
This course will explore the founding of the State of Israel with a focus on the pre-state institutions, including the army and labor organizations, that played a role in the creation of the state. The final class meeting will use the background developed in the first seven weeks to shed light on current events.
Martin Lapan, former executive director of the Jewish Labor Committee, spent much time in Israel before and after 1948, and was a member Po'alei Tziyon (Workers of Zion) before the founding of the State.
This program is a joint offering of the JEWISH STUDY CENTER and THE JEWISH LABOR COMMITTEE.

Introduction to Mishnah
Wednesdays, October 2 - November 6 (6 classes)
8:30 - 9:45 pm
Members $65/Non-Members $75
Adas Israel
The Mishnah, edited in approximately 200 CE, is the foundation of Rabbinic Judaism, the form of Judaism practiced today. Alongside the Torah, it is the foundation of halakha, the Jewish legal system. This course will explore the methodology of the Mishnah. We will begin with a historical introduction to understand its origins and its relationship to later halakhic development. The majority of the course will focus on learning how the Mishnah presents its material. We will study its legal and aesthetic structures, the relationship of the Mishnah to the Torah, and the roles of different generations of Rabbis in the Mishnah. We will use the text of Tractate Sanhedrin as the examples for the class.
Jonathan Levine has lived in Washington, DC since 1997. He is an active member of Adas Israel. He spent the last year studying at the Conservative Yeshiva in Jerusalem and participates in the United Synagogue's Mishnah Yomit (Daily Mishnah) program.

The Art of Preserving Family Memories on Video
Wednesdays, October 2 - 23 (4 classes)
7:00 - 8:15 pm
Members $45/Non-Members $55
Adas Israel
This hands-on course will help participants create a family video memoir (family of origin, community, shul, etc.). Topics will include: pre-production research ; incorporating photographs, scrapbooks and family memorabilia into the video; interviewing techniques; location shooting ideas; elements of composition and equipment needs. The final session will include the screening of participant films and post-production options. To make the most of this class and complete assignments, participants need access to a video camera for the duration of the class.
Laura Seltzer has produced and production managed documentaries, educational programs, and commercial productions since 1993. She is Producer/Director of The First Basket, a documentary on the 1946 New York Knicks, the origins of the NBA, and American Jewish social history (see www.SeltzerFilmVideo.com). Seltzer is on the Board of Directors of the American Jewish Committee.

The Jews and Spain
CANCELLED -- SORRY
Spanish culture had a strong influence on Jews living in pre-1492 Spain and in the post-expulsion diaspora. Similarly, Jewish thought and customs influenced Spanish culture. This course will explore the complex inter-relationships of Spanish and Jewish culture in medieval life, with remnants in our day.
Rosa Alonso, a native of Spain, is an economist at the World Bank. She is a member of Adas Israel.

"V'Higadata" (And you shall explain...):
Haggadah and Bible
Wednesdays, October 2 - 23 (4 classes)
8:30 - 9:45 pm
Members $45/Non-Members $55
Adas Israel
V'higadata -- and you shall explain to your child on that day -- it is because of what the LORD did for me when I went free from Egypt (Exod 13:8). This class will study the haggadah, the liturgy for the Passover seder, without the pressure of house-cleaning or seder preparations. We will read the many passages in the Tanakh (Bible) which form the core of the haggadah as a way of exploring the biblical and rabbinic views of the Exodus, of history, storytelling, and education. "In olden times, your forefathers worshipped other gods" (Joshua 24:2). "My father was a wandering Aramean" (Deut. 26:5). "It is the Passover sacrifice to the LORD" (Exod. 12:27). "Pursue them in wrath and destroy them" (Lamentations 3:66). Don't miss this opportunity to look carefully at the rich heritage that is too often passed over in a matzah-ball- and wine-induced blur.
Norman Shore is a veteran Jewish studies teacher for the Study Center and elsewhere.

The Book of Genesis:
God Relationships
Wednesdays, October 2 - 30 (5 classes)
7:00 - 8:15 pm
Members $55/Non-Members $65
Adas Israel
The Book of Genesis weaves a remarkable presentation of the stories of individuals from ancient times who encounter the Creator, who hear the Voice, and who wrestle with their relationships in this world. Through the lenses of Biblical Criticism, Hassidism, Jungian Psychology and, mainly, our own eyes, we will begin to see these stories in ways that are personal and liberating.
Texts: A Bible. (The Living Torah, ed. Aryeh Kaplan is recommended.)
Also: Understanding Genesis by Nahum Sarna.
David Shneyer is the founder and rabbi of Am Kolel, a Jewish resource and renewal center, based in Rockville, Maryland. David also leads the Fabrangen Fiddlers, a Jewish folk band that performs traditional and original Jewish music. He also serves Kehila Chadasha, an independent Havurah based in Bethesda, as spiritual guide. A Buberian and Heschelian teacher-activist, David has lived in the D.C. area for 32 years and resides in Rockville with his wife, Diane, and sons Aaron and Daniel.
This course is co-sponsored with AM KOLEL

Hasidism: A Way for Jewish Renewal
Wednesdays, October 2 - 30 (5 classes)
8:30 - 9:45 pm
Members: $55/Non-Members $65
Adas Israel
Martin Buber wrote: "Hasidism is a great revelation of spirit and life in which the nation appears to be connected by an inner tie with the world, with the soul, and with God. Only through such contact will it be possible to guard Zionism against following the way of the nationalism of our age, which is destroying its own values and its right to exist."
In these five meetings we will encounter the teachings of early Hasidism through such masters as the Baal Shem Tov, Shneur Zalmen of Liadi, Levi Yitzchak, Nachman of Bratzlav, the Chozeh, and the Iczbitza. Where can we find God? How do we make sense of Evil in the world? How do we find joy? Through their teachings, their stories and Hasidic niggunim (melodies) we will enter world of meaning and redemption. Text: Tales of the Hasidim, ed. Martin Buber, Schocken
R. David Shneyer is the founder of Am Kolel, a Jewish resource and renewal center, based in Rockville, Maryland. See above.
This course is co-sponsored with AM KOLEL

Birkat Hamazon
Wednesdays, October 30 - November 20 (4 classes)
8:30 - 9:45 pm
Members $45/Non-Members $55
Adas Israel
The Torah portrays a life of prosperity as one where we eat food with satisfaction. Our response is to praise God. According to the tradition, Moses, Joshua, David and Solomon, and the rabbis of the 2nd Century CE created a series of blessings, birkat hamazon, which are recited after meals in which we have eaten bread. We will read and discuss the meaning and rituals of brachot (blessings) for food, focusing on birkat hamazon (grace after meals).
Norman Shore is a veteran Jewish studies teacher for the Study Center and elsewhere.

Jews and American Politics
Wednesdays, October 30 - December 13 (6 weeks)
8:30 - 9:45 pm
Members $65/Non-Members $75
Adas Israel
Fifty years ago, Jews were not prominent in American politics; today, politics is a Jewish profession. Explore the history of Jews and American politics from the nation's earliest days to future candidates., from organizing the American labor movement to marching with Martin Luther King, Jr., to lobbying for Israel with Christian conservatives. Who's a Jew? Are Jewish voters trending Republican in 2002 and 2004? How will campaign finance reform affect Jewish donors and their chosen candidates and parties? Why does every major Jewish organization have a Washingtonian lobbying office? After Lieberman, is there anything left for Jews and American politics?
Steve Rabinowitz is a Washington political media consultant, an adjunct professor of political communication and a former Clinton White House press aide. His clients include both the Reform and Conservative movements of Judaism.

Tzedakah for Every Wish and Wallet
Wednesdays, November 6 - 20
7:00 - 8:15 pm
Members: $35/Non-Members: $45
Adas Israel
No matter how much money you have in the bank, you can have an impact on your world donating to causes that matter to you. By giving in a mindful way that reflects your values and passions, you can serve your community and deepen your Jewish experience. Through interactive exercises and Jewish text study, we will consider questions such as: How do I feel about money: do I use money, or does it use me? What causes do I care about? How do I make choices about donating limited financial resources? Is it better to feel good or to do good? This fun, interactive course is designed for philanthropists (yes, that's you!) in any income bracket, whether you're giving small change or a small fortune.
Lauren Brownstein has been working in philanthropy for ten years as a fundraiser and educator, with professional experience in cultural, corporate, and Jewish communal settings. She believes that philanthropy can be a creative expression of one's Jewish identity and that any donation, regardless of size, can have great significance.

Mending the World
Wednesdays, November 6 - 20 (3 classes)
7:00 - 8:15 pm
Members: $35/Non-Members $45
Adas Israel
In this course, a rabbi and protestant minister share their insights on the spiritual resources of progressive Judaism and Christianity in responding to life's greatest challenges. Topics will include images of God in Christianity and Judaism; spiritual partners; suffering, health and healing; and death and dying. Participants will have an opportunity to find deeper understanding of their own faith traditions while exploring shared truths that nurture spiritual growth.The course is based on the new book, Mending the World: Spiritual Hope for Ourselves and Our Planet, co-authored by the instructors. Copies will be available for purchase on the first class night.
Rev. Bruce Epperly, an ordained minister, is adjunct professor of theology and spirituality at Georgetown University Medical School and Wesley Theological Seminary. He is a spirituality and health consultant and author of seven books. R. Lewis Solomon, an ordained post-denominational rabbi with training in mind-body medicine, is an attorney and professor at George Washington University Law School.. He has written many books and is a speaker and teacher on Jewish spirituality and healing.

Jewish Women Artists
of the 20th Century
Wednesday, November 13-20 and December 11 (3 classes)
PLEASE NOTE CHANGE -- no class Dec 4, final class Dec 11
8:30 - 9:45 pm
Members $35.00/Non-Members $45.00
Adas Israel Congregation
This course will explore, through slide-viewing, lecture, and discussion, the work of Judy Chicago, Helen Frankenthaler, Lee Krasner, Annie Liebowitz, Louise Nevelson, Miriam Schapiro, and others, considering the role that Jewish heritage and culture played in the direction of each woman's art. While the first two classes will focus on well-known artists of the last century, the final class meeting will celebrate the work of lesser-known women. Participants will have an opportunity to extend their art scholarship and share their own knowledge through short presentations on their favorites among contemporary Jewish women artists
Judybeth Greene is an attorney and an artist (see Judybeth.com) whose works on Judaic, political and secular themes have appeared in local venues from Eastern Market and Baltimore's ARTSCAPE to galleries (Gallery 325, Foundry Gallery, Washington Printmaker's Gallery), restaurants, and religious institutions. Recently she collaborated with Andy Shallal, an Arab-American restauranteur and peace activist to create art for "Foods of Peace" a show featuring foods historically shared by Jewish and Arab cultures.

Thursdays at DCJCC
16th & Q Streets, NW

Z'mirot Shabbat: Songs of the Sabbath
Thursdays, October 3 - October 24 (4 classes)
7:00 - 8:15 pm
Members: $45/Non-Members $55
DCJCC
For centuries, Jews have celebrated the beauty, joy, soulfulness, and peace of Shabbat by accompanying their Shabbat meals with song. We will sing some of the my favorite z'mirot, which have been handed down from a variety of traditions, ranging from Western Europe to North Africa to the Middle East traditions, ranging from Western Europe to North Africa to the Middle East, and which reflect a broad range of emotions and energy levels. Several of the most beautiful melodies have been handed down to me by my parents and grandparents and are not generally known, even in "z'mirot-singing" circles. Words will be available in transliteration for those who do not read Hebrew.
Dov Weitman grew up singing z'mirot at the Shabbos table with his parents and sister. He continues to sing and play Jewish music throughout the United States with the Robyn Helzner Trio.