Jewish Portal of Teacher Education

Source: URJ - Union for Reform Judaism

Most everyone knows that Ashton Kutcher, Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan, Nicole Richie, and a host of other celebrities are interested in Kabbalah, the mystical interpretation that’s part of Jewish tradition. But what about the young man who wants to learn the basics of Judaism because his fiancée is Jewish? Or the longtime seeker who’s curious to explore what draws her to our ancient faith? Or the grandparents whose daughter and son-in-law are raising Jewish kids – something the grandparents know nothing about?

A Taste of Judaism® class may fit the bill perfectly – for them and for your congregation.

Designed for people who have little or no Jewish background but are interested in learning about Judaism, A Taste of Judaism® is offered in URJ member congregations throughout North America. In addition to introducing the basics of Judaism to participants, the three two-hour classes – commonly taught over three consecutive weeks by a congregation’s rabbi or other qualified synagogue professional – offer numerous benefits to host congregations.

Here are five ways hosting a Taste course can help you strengthen your congregation, along with some of the terrific feedback instructors and participants have shared their Taste experiences:

• You’ll broaden your reach.

  A Taste class will help you reach and engage newcomers,
  spiritual seekers, and “nones,” as well as unaffiliated Jews.
   

• You'll help create a wonderful community.

  Many Taste participants continue to stay in touch long beyond the class’s timeline and the confines of the classroom.
   

• You'll introduce students to your congregation.

  Though Taste students are under no obligation to affiliate with the host congregation, the class is a great way to introduce them to opportunities within your community.
   

• You’ll have a little help from your friends (at the URJ).

  Because curricular materials and print-ready ads are provided to all Taste instructors, you don’t have to spend tons of time planning what to teach or how to teach it.
   

• You'll demonstrate your community’s audacious hospitality.

  Taste classes provides incomparable opportunities to highlight your congregation’s work and its commitment to audacious hospitality.

A limited number of marketing grants are available to help URJ congregations promote their A Taste of Judaism® courses.

Read more at URJ Blog.