Please also see the Events page under Calendar for an updated listing of Emanuel's educational programs. 

We are "The People of the Book."

Every year, Jews cycle through the Torah.  While the words do not change, the meanings change as our lives change.  At Emanuel we strive to find meaning in the Torah and other Jewish texts, no matter if you are 13, 30, or 83.  You will find an array of study opportunities for children and adults at Emanuel, but there are also wonderful materials available on the web.  Below are feeds provided by the URJ to supplement your studies.

Illustration from the Sarajevo Hagadah (Passover prayerbook).

The Community Foundation for Jewish Education (CFJE) 
is sponsoring two ways in which adults can learn--but you need to register now!

Limud Chicago, a branch of the Florence Melton Adult Mini-School (flyer here)
Location: Anshe Emet Synagogue. Offered are four courses created at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, each focusing on at least one major area of Jewish learning, forming a tghread in a carefully woven fabric integrating Jewish history, religion, ritual, languae, ethics, philosophy, literature, theology, and contempoary Jewish life.  Register now at www.cfje.org/melton. No, you don't need to know Hebrew; more questions? Ask Rabbi Yehoshua Ben-Avraham at 847/410-3900 x 25 or yben@cfje.org.

Merkaz Ivrit--Learn Hebrew Today!  Chicago's most popular Ulpan!
September, 2011--June, 2012
A structured, systematic way for speaking, writing, and reading Hebrew.(flyer here) To register, go to www.regonline.com/merkazivrit or for more information, visit www.cfje.og/merkaz_ivrit. Questions? Ayala Schlezinger at 847/410-3900 x 20 or aschlezinger@cfje.org. 

Jewish Values Online presents views on current issues addressed by rabbis from different movements; Rabbi Michael Zedek is on the Reform Judaism panel for this site.

Most recent questions:
My three Reform Jewish children have each married non-Jews. Each of them are raising their children as Jews. What is the best-practice with respect to Christmas trees in their homes?  Rabbi Zedek's response.
What is the meaning of Chayav (be guilty of a transgression/owe someone something)?  Rabbi Zedek's response.
What does Jewish law say about respecting the Law of the Land? Rabbi Zedek's Response response.

Introduction to Judaism
February 21, 2012 - June 12, 2012
with Rabbi Michael Zedek and Cantor Michelle Friedman

Introduction to Judaism is a 17-week overview of Judaism, providing a more extensive opportunity to learn about Jewish history, traditions, holidays and life cycle ceremonies. Participants will gain comfort and familiarity with the symbols, liturgy, music, traditions and Hebrew blessings that accompany Jewish celebrations in the home and synagogue. The classes cover a wide range of topics including:

Reform rabbis and cantors teach this in-depth course. Introduction to Judaism is designed for individuals and couples wishing to explore Judaism, as well as for those considering becoming Jewish. Partners in interfaith relationships are encouraged to enroll together. Introduction to Judaism is cosponsored by the Union for Reform Judaism and the Chicago Associate of Reform Rabbis. Cost: Fees: $310 per individual or couple. (Includes textbooks, materials and 17 weeks of instruction). Other locations and registration.