Course Descriptions

Our Adult Education courses and programs are briefly described below. For more information, please contact Susi Weissman at (818) 429-1220 or susiweissman@icloud.com.

• Arts & Culture - A vibrant variety of Arts & Culture events including a series on select Sunday afternoons via ZOOM. More info.
• Bagels & Banter - A monthly discussion and nosh with Rabbi Ron Li-Paz covering a variety of topics.
• Talmud with Rabbi Julie Rosenson - This twice monthly study of Talmud will give you a deeper understanding of your Jewish soul by leaning into the wisdom of our Sages.
• Journey Within: A  Soul's Life with God - Engage with the insights of Torah to unravel your distinct mission and purpose. Learn to apply spirituality to your daily life through a contemplative practice. Developed and taught by Annie Sperling. New session begins in 2026.
• Mussar - Refine your soul, transform your life. Mussar is a Jewish spiritual practice that you can learn to improve your everyday life by developing important inner character traits (middot). The program continues for five years with a postgraduate program to follow. Taught by Helen Rifkind. New class starts October 14, 2025.
• Rabbi-in-Residence Lecture Series - Guest rabbis present talks on a variety of topics several times a year, usually via ZOOM. More info.
• Torah Inspired Learning with Rabbi Ron Li-Paz - Join Rabbi Li-Paz and fellow learners for an engaging and deeply relevant study of Torah. No prior knowledge nor Hebrew skills are necessary.
• People of the Book Club - A participant led group on Zoom founded and facilitated by Rachel Sylvers. Three to four fiction and non-fiction books per academic year with Jewish content. Approximately four sessions per book with breaks between books. Next meeting: October 21, 2025, reading "HERE ALL ALONG Finding Meaning, Spirituality, And A Deeper Connection To Life – In Judaism (After Finally Choosing To Look There)" by Sarah Hurwitz. To join, please register and read through page 51.
• Rosh Hodesh Women's Well Circle - In this interactive program led by Susi Weissman we follow the ancient tradition of celebrating Rosh Hodesh/the new moon as a holiday given to the Israelite women. We explore the cycles of the seasons, holidays and our lives through ritual, artistic expression, meditation, food and sharing our stories. This year's theme is Aging with Purpose and Embodying Wisdom. To join us, register and purchase "Embracing Wisdom Soaring in the Second Half of Life" by Rabbi Malka Drucker and Rabbi Nadia Gross.