- 516-487-0900
We are excited to introduce the new Miriam & Moses Center for Pluralistic Adult Jewish Learning at Temple Beth-El. Named for the two biblical heroes who led our ancestors toward the Promised Land, the center’s mission is to bring modern, intellectually stimulating, gender-egalitarian adult Jewish education to our congregants and the wider community. As we write the next chapter of TBE’s great story, the Miriam & Moses Center will help position our congregation as a leader in shaping the future of pluralistic Judaism on the western North Shore.
All courses are also listed on our calendar.
Shabbat Morning Torah Study: Parashat Hashavuah
Saturdays, 9:15-10:15 a.m.
Instructors: TBE Clergy
Founded more than 30 years ago by Rabbi Davidson, our weekly Shabbat morning study of parashat hashavuah (the weekly Torah portion) is one of the jewels in the Temple-Beth El crown. The classical commentators, Jewish history, modern thought, current events, and our own personal experiences intersect each week as our clergy lead us in thought-provoking, in-depth conversation about Judaism’s most sacred book. No prior knowledge or background is necessary, as each person brings a unique and valuable perspective to the table that enriches the learning for everyone.
This class is open to all congregants and prospective congregants. No preparation is necessary, and no knowledge of Hebrew is required.
Judaism’s Spiritual Vocabulary: Discovering Meaning in the Siddur
Thursdays, 9:15-10:15 a.m. following morning Minyan
Class meets weekly on an ongoing basis.
In-person and Online
The prayers in the siddur are the spiritual vocabulary of the Jewish people: they help us praise and thank God in times of joy, lament and mourn in times of sadness, and give us words to speak when our own words fail us. Like other forms of poetry, our prayerbook uses vivid imagery to stir our emotions, affirm the majesty and mystery of life, and attempt to express the inexpressible. In this class, Rabbi Stoller will guide us in exploring the siddur in all its many facets: its structure, its language, its history and evolution, and its relevance as a living spiritual vocabulary for our own lives.
Bagels and coffee will be served. To register, call 516-487-0900.
Tuesdays, 7–8:30 PM
Taught by an impressive lineup of scholars and local rabbis, the Tuesday Night Symposium offers opportunities for challenging intellectual study of a variety of Jewish topics. This year’s symposium schedule follows.
Join us in person or online via zoom. No registration is needed. Join Zoom Room (Meeting ID: 858 6898 6205 Passcode: shA8B1).
Preparing for the High Holidays
Sept. 17 & 24, 2024
Instructors: Rabbi Brian Stoller and Rabbi Randy Sheinberg, Temple Tikvah
Rabbi Stoller and Rabbi Sheinberg will lead participants in exploring texts and themes of the High Holidays, as attendees prepare themselves for repentance and renewal. The Sept. 17 session will be held at Temple Tikvah of New Hyde Park, and the Sept. 24 session will be held at Temple Beth-El of Great Neck.
The Land of Israel in the Talmud
Instructor: Dr. Alyssa Gray, Hebrew Union College
Oct. 15, 22 & 29, 2024
This class will focus on three aspects of the Babylonian Talmud’s engagement with the land of Israel: (1) how it portrays the past, present, and future of the geographical land; (2) its portrayal of relationships between Babylonian rabbis and those of the land of Israel; and (3) a couple of key theological and halakhic differences between the two rabbinic centers.
Judaism & Democracy: Debriefing the 2024 Election
Nov. 12, 2024
Instructor: Rabbi Brian Stoller
One thing most people agree on is that the November 2024 presidential election will be one of the most consequential political events of our time. In the aftermath of the vote, Rabbi Stoller will facilitate this conversation about what happened, what comes next, and how Jewish tradition can illuminate the way forward.
Women in the Talmud: Unveiling Hidden Voices
Nov. 19 & 26, 2024
Instructor: Rabbi Megan Brumer
Participants will explore some of the women featured in the Talmud, whose voices are often overshadowed by men.
Diaspora & Exile in the Talmud & Related Rabbinic Literature
Dec. 3, 10 & 17, 2024
Instructor: Dr. David Kraemer, Jewish Theological Seminary
The centrality of the Land of Israel in biblical and subsequent Jewish teachings is not the only view in our tradition. Attendees will learn about the ways the Talmud and other rabbinic literature push back against that centrality, claiming “exile” as a vibrant center of Jewish life, as well.
Paths to Peace: Exploring Mipnei Darkhei Shalom
Jan. 7 & 14, 2025
Instructor: Rabbi Megan Brumer
After the destruction of the Temple, Judaism began to shift toward rabbinic and synagogue-based practices. Participants will learn how, during this transition, the rabbis adapted and amended some traditional laws on the grounds of mipnei darkhei shalom, avoiding societal conflict and fostering peaceful relations with others.
Hineini: A Taste of Jewish Mindfulness
Jan. 21 & 28, 2025
Instructor: Rabbi Randy Sheinberg, Temple Tikvah of New Hyde Park
How can Judaism improve our ability to live in the present, aware of our blessings and awake to life? Through text study and practice, participants will explore and experience the wisdom of mindful Jewish living.
Rabbi’s Book Club: Journey from the Land of No by Roya Hakakian
Feb. 4, 2025
Instructor: Rabbi Brian Stoller
Roya Hakakian was 12 years old in 1979, when the revolution swept through Tehran. In this autobiography, she tells the story of her family and her childhood as a Jew in revolutionary Iran.
Our Souls on Fire: Modern Lessons from Our Hasidic Masters
Feb. 11 & 18, 2025
Instructor: Rabbi Jerry Blum, Temple Isaiah of Great Neck
Through discussion and critical text study, attendees will explore the roots of Hasidism and learn how its wisdom can help us, as 21st-century Jews, to deepen our relationships with others and with the Divine.
What’s So Funny About the Book of Esther?
March 4 & 11, 2025
Instructor: Rabbi Dr. Andrea Weiss, Hebrew Union College
Prior to Purim, participants will study the one comedic book in the Bible, the Book of Esther. Learn about what classifies Esther as a comedy and what makes the ancient story of this feminist heroine so relevant today.
Christianity and Islam in Jewish Law
March 18 & 25, April 1 & 8, 2025
Instructor: Rabbi Brian Stoller
Guiding attendees in reading classical Jewish legal sources, halakhic responsa, and modern legal theory, Rabbi Stoller will help participants learn how Jewish attitudes toward Christianity and Islam, and their practitioners, have evolved over time. To elevate the learning experience, this course will include optional reading outside of class.
Intelligence, Consciousness, or a Soul: Some Jewish Views on AI
April 22 & 29, 2025
Instructor: Rabbi Geoffrey Mitelman, Sinai & Synapses
How do we define “intelligence” and “artificial”? Does AI have consciousness? A soul? While traditional Jewish texts wouldn’t know about ChatGPT, what analogies can be drawn from biblical, rabbinic, and later Jewish texts?
Talmudic Story & Modern Philosophy: Based on Nine Talmudic Readings by Emmanuel Levinas
May 6, 13 & 20, 2025
Instructor: Rabbi Brian Stoller
The Talmudic sages use aggadah (storytelling) to explore the deepest questions of theology, ethics, spirituality, culture, and human existence. Rabbi Stoller will lead attendees in close readings of some of the Talmud’s most profound stories, drawing on the writings of the 20th-century French-Jewish philosopher Emmanuel Levinas. To enhance the learning experience, this course may include optional readings outside of class.
If You Will It: Rebuilding Jewish Peoplehood for the 21st Century
Instructor: Elliott Abrams, Book Author
Sunday, Oct. 20, 10–11:30 AM
What can Jewish parents and organizations do to ensure that future generations of American Jews will have a strong Jewish identity? Elliott Abrams, a former Middle East policy official for the U.S. government, will examine the history of the American Jewish community and its relationship with Israel, even now when many Americans have turned away from the Jewish state. Following the presentation, stay for brunch and a book signing.
Field Trip: A Tour of the JTS Rare Book Collection
Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024, 10–11 AM
Instructor: Dr. David Kraemer, JTS Librarian
The Jewish Theological Seminary Library has one of the most outstanding collections of rare Judaica in the world. The works in its collections testify to the tenacity and vibrancy of Judaism in its many homes through the centuries. Join Library Director Dr. David Kraemer for a “tour”—via these rare gems—of some of the great moments of our past.
Klezmer in the Jewish Musical Tradition
Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, 2–3:30 PM at North Shore Towers
Instructor: Cantorial Soloist Stephanie Horowitz-Mulry
Our cantorial soloist will lead attendees in study and conversation about the Klezmer musical tradition.
Sisterhood Learning: Judith in Art—Presentation and Discussion
Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025, 7–8:30 PM on Zoom
Instructor: Matthew Moshen
Judith, the Jewish character associated with Hanukkah, is depicted in many famous and fascinating paintings. Participants will study images, learn about some infamous and provocative versions of Judith’s adventures, and discuss her heroic actions.
Painting the Text: The Land of Israel in Rabbinic Literature—A Hands-on Artistic Experience
Sundays, April 27, May 4 & 18, 2025, 10–11:30 AM
Instructors: Rabbi Brian Stoller and Regina Gil, Gold Coast Arts Center
Rabbi Stoller will lead participants in the study of rabbinic texts about the Land of Israel, and accomplished artist Regina Gil, founder and executive director of the Gold Coast Arts Center, will guide attendees in creating paintings that express their thoughts and feelings about the texts. No previous painting experience is required, only an open heart and a willingness to try is needed.
Holy Spirits: For the Men of TBE
Thursdays, July 18, Sept. 12 & Nov. 7, 2024, Feb. 6 & June 5, 2025, 7–9 PM
Instructor: Rabbi Brian Stoller
The men of TBE gather for spirits, study, and conversation about issues of interest to males of all ages. TBE Brotherhood will sponsor dinner.
Adult Education at North Shore Towers
Mondays, Sept. 16, 2024, Jan. 13 & May 19, 2025, 2–3:30 PM
Instructor: Rabbi Brian Stoller
Participants will study and converse at North Shore Towers, hosted in the apartment of one of our congregants.
Israel Discussion Group
Sundays, Sept. 22 & Dec. 8, 2024, Jan. 26 & March 2, 2025, 10–11 AM
Facilitator: Rabbi Brian Stoller
With so much happening in Israel, this group will offer an opportunity for participants to talk, share, and process their thoughts and feelings in a community setting. Rabbi Stoller will facilitate conversations based on news articles, books, podcasts, and other sources covering current events in Israel.
Sisterhood Breakfasts & Book Discussions
Sundays, Nov. 17, 2024, Jan. 12 & March 9, 2025, 9:30 AM–12:30 PM
Led by: Sandy Lubert
Following an energetic musical learning and prayer experience with our Kehillah Project students, participants will gather for a bagel breakfast and book discussion led by Sandy Lubert. Those who wish can bring knitting and/or crocheting projects to work on with Rebecca Wotman after the discussion.
Israeli Poems for Our Post-October 7 World
Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, 9:15–10:15 AM on Zoom
Instructor: Rachel Korazim, Jewish Education Consultant
Participants will read poems written by Israelis during the challenging times following the calamity of October 7. These poems, raw and painful, come from many different segments of Israeli society and express a beautiful tapestry of voices. This session is sponsored by Dorothy & Ed Greenbaum.
“Where Are You?”: God’s Eternal Question
Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, 9:15–10:15 AM
Instructor: Rabbi Esther Lederman, Union for Reform Judaism
What might God’s first question to Adam and Eve—“where are you?”—mean for us today? Rabbi Lederman will help attendees explore key themes of the first chapter of Genesis.
“The Voice Is the Voice of Jacob”: Deception and Truth, Lifting the Mask
Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, 9:15–10:15 AM
Instructors: Rabbis Tara and Meir Feldman
Our rabbis emeriti will counter the anti-Israel slogans of our day with the truths at the core of our history and our identity as Jews and as Israelis. This will go beyond anti-Israel rallies and college campuses and focus on us all: the learning we can take on, the conversations we can embrace, the “voice” that each of us can raise up.
The Apostle Paul: A First-Century Reform Jew?
Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, 9:15–10:15 AM
Instructor: Rabbi Dr. Joshua Garroway, Hebrew Union College
His disparagement of the Torah and his conferral of the Abrahamic covenant on gentiles have earned Paul the reputation among Jews as a perfidious huckster who abandoned Judaism to create another religion. Is it possible we’ve been too hard on Paul? Might modern Jews come to see him as a loyal Jew—indeed a Jew much like us?
Lunch & Learn: What’s a Messiah, Anyway?
Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, 12:30–1:30 PM
Instructor: Rabbi Dr. Joshua Garroway, Hebrew Union College
Anticipating a messiah has been a feature of Judaism for centuries. Worshipping a messiah has become the central feature of Christianity. But where did this idea of a messiah come from? What is a messiah and how have Jewish conceptions changed throughout the years?
The Spirituality of Secular Music
Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, 5 PM
Instructor: Jacob “Spike” Kraus, Artist-in-Residence
This sing-along program uses popular music from a variety of genres to explore Jewish middot (values) and texts from a lens outside the Jewish tradition. This presentation will be set up as a page of Talmud, with song lyrics tied directly to quotations from Jewish text. The session will conclude with Havdalah.
Creating Sacred Spaces
Saturday, March 22, 2025, 9:15–10:15 AM
Instructor: Rabbi Leah Rachel Berkowitz, Scholar-in-Residence
In a study of the weekly Torah portion, Rabbi Berkowitz will engage attendees in conversation about how we create sacred spaces and what we want—and don’t want—to include in them. Inspired by midrashim about the building of the Tabernacle in the wilderness, she will invite participants to think about what we take with us from the past as we move forward.
The Rabbi in the Attic
Saturday, March 22, 2025, 4–6 PM
Instructor: Rabbi Leah Rachel Berkowitz, Scholar-in-Residence
The character of the rabbi has long been a source of wisdom and humor in Jewish storytelling. Rabbis appear in books and on-screen as detectives, social justice warriors, overworked community leaders, and romantic leads. They can be men with or without beards, as well as women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. This exploration of modern rabbinical characters in fiction and film will examine what changing portrayals of the rabbi can tell us about our communities and ourselves.
Yom Kippur Afternoon Study
Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, 2:15 PM
Instructor: Rabbi Brian Stoller
As afternoon sets in on the holiest day of the year, Rabbi Stoller will lead participants in study and conversation about the themes of the day.
Community Tikkun Leil Shavuot at Temple Tikvah
Sunday, June 1, 2025, 7–10 PM
Instructors: Clergy from Local Synagogues
This evening of Torah study will be taught by the clergy of Temple Beth-El of Great Neck, Temple Judea of Manhasset, Temple Tikvah of New Hyde Park, Temple Isaiah of Great Neck, North Country Reform Temple of Glen Cove, and Port Jewish Center of Port Washington.
516-487-0900
5 Old Mill Road, Great Neck, NY 11023
Monday-Thursday, 9:00am - 5:00pm
Friday, 9:00am - 4:00 pm
