Adult Education Programs
Click on a month below to see list of programming.
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Click image to download brochure. Sin, Sex and Sorcery “The secret things belong to the Lord our God; but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever. . .” - Deuteronomy 29:28
The world is full of mystery and surprise. Even the most rational find that there are areas often left unexplored or undiscussed. This year, our Adult Education Committee has bravely developed a fascinating curriculum of courses, lectures and programs designed to allow us to enter that realm of the mysterious and the sinful. These are subjects you probably didn’t learn in religious school!
Perhaps the poet said it best:
“There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.” - Hamlet Act 1, scene 5
Rabbi Michael Z. Cahana
Registration: To register for any class or program at Congregation Beth Israel, contact Lydia in the Temple Office at 503-222-1069or at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Please make checks payable to CBI and send to: 1972 NW Flanders Street, Portland, OR 97209-2097.
Please indicate in memo section for which class(es) you are paying.
Unless otherwise indicated, no prior registration is required.
A Special thank you to our Instructors: Rabbi Michael Z. Cahana Cantor Judith B. Schiff Cantor Ida Rae Cahana Dr. Judith Baskin Rev. Patrick Brennan Dr. Steven Brenner David Dennis Bruce Guenther Eric Kimmel The Very Rev. Dr. William Lupfer Prof. Natan M. Meir Jan Rabinowitch Prof. Kate Regan Dr. James Rosenbaum Dr. Richard Rosenbaum Dr. Howard Rosenbaum Dr. David Schiff Ron Silver The Hon. Michael H. Simon Prof. Matthew Warshawsky
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Ongoing Programs: Torah Study with Rabbi Cahana Weekly exploration into the insights of the weekly Torah portion using the rabbinic commentaries as a guide. Even if you have never studied Torah before, you will find this a lively group and an excellent exploration into the core of Jewish law, ethics and wisdom. Drop in on any session. CBI Members and their guests only. When: Saturday mornings, 9:00 - 10:00 AM Where: Shirley & Herbert Semler Board Room
Adult B’nei Mitzvah with Cantor Schiff Make 5772 the year you learn to read Hebrew and/or learn to chant Torah and Haftarah. You don’t need any prior Hebrew skills to participate in the Adult B’nei Mitzvah class. When: Wednesdays, First Class: October 26, 6:30 - 7:30 PM, running concurrently with the Midrasha schedule, and culminating on Friday, May 4, 2012, as the class members lead a special Shabbat service Where: Shirley & Herbert Semler Board Room Cost: $150 per student plus $50 for texts (text fee waived for a student who already has the books) CBI members only
If you like to sing and are a good Hebrew reader, then the cantillation class is for you. There are many opportunities throughout the year to chant Torah or Haftarah at non-Bar/Bat Mitzvah services. Come to class and learn a new skill. When: Wednesdays, First Class: October 26, 7:30 - 8:30 pm, running concurrently with the Midrasha schedule Where: Shirley & Herbert Semler Board Room Cost: Text fee of $50, waived for a student who already has the books, CBI members only
Jewish Language/Jewish Learning with Cantor Schiff Make 5772 the year you learn to decode Hebrew or perfect your Hebrew reading skills. You don’t need any prior Hebrew knowledge to participate in this class; Cantor Schiff will teach you everything you need to know! We will discuss holidays, Jewish customs, life cycle events and how to bring Judaism into your home when you are the parent of young children. When: Wednesdays, First Class: October 26, 9:30 - 10:30 am, running concurrently with Preschool schedule Where: Shirley & Herbert Semler Board Room Cost: Members $125 per student, plus $50 for texts Non-members $175 per student, plus $50 for texts
Lunch and Learn Bring your lunch to CBI and converse with Rabbi Cahana and fellow congregants concerning Reform Jewish perspectives on contemporary issues. When: October 20 (Simchat Torah), December 15, February 16, May 17, May 27 (Shavuot), noon - 1:00 PM Where: Shirley & Herbert Semler Board Room
The Temple Book Group meets monthly at CBI from September through May. If you like to read and talk (and eat!), you’ll like it! New members and visitors are always welcome. Morning snacks and coffee provided. You needn’t have read the entire book to attend. Contact Ellen Rosenblum at 503-241-9040 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for additional information. When: Sundays, TBD, 9:30 am Where: Shirley & Herbert Semler Board RoomBook list for 2011-2012 (check Bulletin/website for dates and titles)
Congregational Choir with Cantor Cahana Sing a New Song unto God! - Shiru L’Adonai shir Chadash! A remarkable musical opportunity only open to members of CBI. Our congregational adult choir is called Kol Echad, which means “one voice.” You are invited to join us, whether or not you can read music or Hebrew, as all music is taught by CD and MP3 recordings and the Hebrew is transliterated into English. Along the way, we all learn a little more about the incredible variety and beauty of Jewish music, prayers, holidays, and each other. Performances include: Chanukah service and party, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Gospel Shabbat, Purim Schpiel, Annual Meeting Shabbat service and the gala honoring Cantor Schiff. When: Sunday rehearsals beginning October 23, see website and monthly bulletin for start times. Where: TBDCost: $18, CBI members only
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Shabbat Congregation Beth Israel will celebrate the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend with a special Shabbat service. We will be joined by members of the Northwest Community Gospel Choir and our own Temple Choirs as we celebrate Dr. King’s legacy with joyous song. Our speaker will be David Dennis. Legendary Civil Rights activist David Dennis was a CORE Freedom Rider in 1961, imprisoned in Mississippi. He stayed on, working with Robert Moses in voter registration campaigns, including the Freedom Summer in 1964. He went on to practice law until rejoining Moses on the Algebra Project in the 80’s. When: Friday, January 13, 6:00 PM Where: Main Sanctuary
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Monthly Programs:
Taste of Melton Things Jewish texts want us to know about sex but you were afraid to ask! Join us for a discussion exploring what Biblical text and Jewish writers throughout the ages teach about Jewish sexual ethics. Acclaimed teacher Jan Rabinowitch will lead us in a discussion based on the Florence Melton Adult Mini School curriculum developed by Hebrew University in Jerusalem. Speaker: Jan Rabinowitch When: Thursday, September 22, 7:00 pm Where: Shirley & Herbert Semler Board Room
Cantor, Hazzan, Shaliach Tzibbur: The Evolution of the Cantor in Jewish Liturgy Singer, prayer interpreter, teacher, representative of the congregation, artist in residence and clergy partner– all of these describe the role of the 21st century cantor. Join us as we explore the cantor’s role through Jewish history with a special emphasis on Reform Judaism and the important place of women in the cantorate. CD provided. Speakers: Cantors Judith Schiff & Ida Rae Cahana When: Sunday, October 23, 10:00 am Where: Pollin Chapel The Place of Mysticism in Rational Judaism Reform Judaism often emphasizes rationality. We pride ourselves on its appeal to our minds and intellect, as distinct from our feelings or spiritual side. Sorcery and magic also have a long tradition in Jewish thought. How do these strands weave together? This mini-mester will explore the nature and history of magical Jewish thinking and will examine the relevance of the supernatural for us. Speaker: Rabbi Michael Z. Cahana When: Thursdays, October 27, November 10, November 17, 7:00 pm Where: Pollin Chapel Cost: *See mini-mester cost information
Sinful Desserts of Grandma Rose Bake and sample “sinfully delicious” treats with Drs. James, Richard and Howard Rosenbaum as they share stories about their famous Grandma Rose Naftalin, the petite force who gave Portland Rose’s Restaurant and published two treasured cookbooks of her “sinfully delicious” recipes. Speakers: Drs. James, Richard and Howard Rosenbaum When: Thursday, November 3, 7:00 pm Where: Goodman Hall
“Piece by Missing Piece: Restoring the Sephardic Legacy of Spain" In conjunction with Portland Jewish Book Month, Dr. Warshawsky will describe how, prior to their expulsion in 1492, Jews played important roles despite prejudice and legislation that finally doomed their existence in Spain. Dr. Regan will provide a visual description of the discovery and restoration of the lost medieval synagogue of Ubeda. This event is co-sponsored with the Library Committee. Speakers: Professors Kate Regan and Matthew Warshawsky When: Friday, November 4, 6:00 pm Where: Temple
The Dybbuk (1937): Yiddish film "The Dybbuk, or Between Two Worlds," tells the story of a young bride possessed by a dybbuk – a malicious spirit, believed to be the dislocated soul of a dead person – on the eve of her wedding. The film is noted among film historians for the striking scene of Leah’s wedding, shot in the style of German Expressionism. The film is generally considered one of the finest in the Yiddish language. A little pray, a little nosh, a little socializing and an interesting film. Join us for Havdalah, friendship and film. Introduction: Professor Natan M. Meir When: Saturday, November 19, 7:00 pm Where: Goodman Hall
Jewish Gangsters Not all Jewish boys were nice, even if they were good to their mothers. Take a walk on the dark side of the Jewish American story with noted author Eric Kimmel and Asst. U.S. Attorney Ron Silver, and learn about the rise and fall of the most notorious American Jews of the 20th century through stories and movie clips. They were killers, bootleggers and gamblers, who terrorized the largest cities in America while catering to America’s vices. Speakers: Ron Silver and Eric Kimmel When: Sunday, November 20, 10:00 am Where: Pollin Chapel Sex, Drugs, Devils and Jews–Who Knew? An introduction to the stories of Nobel prize winning author Isaac Bashevis Singer. by composer, author and R.P. Wollenberg Professor of Music at Reed College Dr. David Schiff. This event is co-sponsored by the Library Committee. Speaker: Dr. David Schiff When: Sunday, December 4, 10:00 am Where: Pollin Chapel
My Favorite Year (1982): Mark Linn-Baker stars as Benjy Stone, junior writer on the popular 1950s TV comedy/variety series The King Kaiser Show. Kaiser’s guest star this week is Hollywood matinee idol Alan Swan, a swashbuckling Errol Flynn type, right down to his indiscriminate womanizing and fondness for mass quantities of booze. Stone is assigned to keep the actor out of trouble during rehearsals and deliver him sober to the performance. Seating is Limited - advance registration required. Introduction: The Hon. Michael H. Simon When: Sunday, December 25, 7:00 pm Where: Oregon Jewish Museum Cost: No–host Chinese dinner
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MLK Jr. Commemoration Legendary Civil Rights activist David Dennis was a CORE Freedom Rider in 1961, imprisoned in Mississippi. He stayed on, working with Robert Moses in voter registration campaigns, including the Freedom Summer in 1964. He went on to practice law until rejoining Moses on the Algebra Project in the 80’s. We will also be joined in song with the Northwest Community Gospel Choir. Speaker: David Dennis When: Wednesday, January 11, 7:00 pm Where: Pollin Chapel CBI members only
Will Robber Barons Always Be Part of Capitalism? In the tumult of today’s times, it isn’t just the political system that creates the turmoil. Noted business ethics expert Steven Brenner will explore past and present "robber barons" and their impact on the economy and society. Robber barons are business people who allegedly engage in unethical business tactics and questionable stock market transactions to build large personal fortunes. Speaker: Steven Brenner When: Sunday, January 22, 10:00 am Where: Pollin Chapel
Metallic Blues (2004): Two Israeli car salesmen initially think that the world is their oyster after a rare limousine falls into their laps at their used-car dealership in Tel Aviv. After reviewing a publication by a German dealership, they are led to believe that the car could net them €50,000 and so they sail with the vehicle to Germany to sell it. While learning that the task may not be as easy as hoped, they are also confronted with a number of emotional episodes. Join us for Havdalah, friendship and film. When: Saturday, January 28, 7:00 pm Where: Blumauer Auditorium
Baking Challah with Cantor Schiff Learn to bake your own challah and learn about the laws and traditions that surround it. Even if you already know how to make challah, come to refine your techniques and to get Cantor Schiff’s special recipe! You’ll leave with two loaves to bake at home , as well as greater knowledge of Jewish cooking. When: Sunday, January 29, 9:00 am - noon Where: Goodman Hall Kitchen Cost: $10 per person
Three Clergy - The Nature of Sin This popular and engaging panel discussion is back for its fourth year. Bringing together again a panel of neighboring religious leaders, our community will delight in this enlightening conversation. Join Rabbi Cahana, The Very Rev. Dr. William Lupfer (Trinity Episcopal Cathedral) and our new participant Rev. Patrick Brennan (St. Mary’s Cathedral) for a dialogue on the nature of sin in three faith traditions. Your questions will be part of the conversation. When: Tuesday, February 7, 7:00 pm Where: St. Mary’s Cathedral
Jewish Pirates When Spain launched the Inquisition, it got something completely unexpected – Jewish Pirates of the Caribbean. “Shiver my knishes!” Join Ron Silver and Eric Kimmel for salty tales of the Jewish pirates who found revenge, and a whole lot of booty, as they raised havoc in the Spanish New World. Speakers: Ron Silver and Eric Kimmel When: Sunday, February 12, 10:00 am Where: Pollin Chapel
Join us for a scintillating conversation with Bruce Guenther, Chief Curator for the Portland Art Museum. Mr. Guenther is internationally recognized for his work in contemporary art and as a public arts advisor. Details and title of program to follow. Speaker: Bruce Guenther When: Sunday, March 18, 2012, 10:00 AM Where: Pollin Chapel
Sex and Death This mini-mester will cover themes we didn’t learn about as kids in religious school: sex and death. What are Jewish views, both traditional and modern, of sex and sexuality? Similarly, what does Judaism teach about the meaning of death and life in the hereafter? Speaker: Rabbi Michael Z. Cahana When: Thursday, April 12, 19 and 26, 7:00 pm Where: Pollin Chapel Cost: *See mini-mester cost information
“Arise My Fair One and Come Away...” An Exploration of Song of SongsThe extraordinary love poetry of “Shir hashirim” is lush and suggestive. For many Jews, the chanting of Song of Songs ushers in the Sabbath. Holiness-sensuality...how did the rabbis reconcile themselves to the potent draw of this beloved poetry? Take a look together with our Cantors and Dr. Judith Baskin, past President of the Association for Jewish Studies. Speakers: Cantors Judith Schiff & Ida Rae Cahana, Dr. Judith Baskin When: Sunday, April 15, 7:00 pm Where: Pollin Chapel
I Love You, Rosa (1972): This Israeli romantic drama chronicles the love of Nissim for Rosa, Nissim’s widowed sister-in-law. Under (very old) Jewish religious law, Nissim has the duty and obligation to marry his brother’s spouse on the death of his brother. Nissim is very fond of Rosa, and grows to love her. However, he is only eleven, and newly single Rosa is not interested, so she shoos him away. Quite a few years later, Nissim comes back with marriage in mind. Join us for Havdalah, friendship and film. When: Saturday, May 12, 7:00 pm Where: Goodman Hall
**Unless otherwise noted, programs are free and open to both members and non-members.
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