Adult Education

“Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.” – Albert Einstein

As a testament to our belief that learning is a lifelong process, Adult Learning and Continuing Education opportunities abound at Melville JC.

Among the many programs we offer are:

○ Rabbi’s Tuesday Morning class – The Rabbi’s Class is a longstanding tradition here at the Melville Jewish Center, going back over fifty years. Come join us as we learn ancient Jewish wisdom, discuss modern news and ethical dilemmas, and seek to enhance our own knowledge and understanding of our religion. The class is open to all, Tuesday mornings, at 10:30 AM in the Minyan Room, or on Zoom®.

○  Wednesday Evening Class with Cantor Leah -Every Wednesday evening, from 6:30 – 8:00, Cantor Leah leads a class on a specific topic. This summer, we are learning “How We Got Here: A Course on Modern Israel.”  This class is a deep dive into the roots of the Palestinian conflict and how it lead up to the October 7th attacks.  Starting in the fall, Cantor Leah will teach Torah Cantillation and Beginning Hebrew on alternate Wednesday evenings.  Dr. Cassorla has more than two decades of teaching experience at the higher education and religious school levels.  Anyone interested in attending any of the classes is invited to contact Cantor Leah at .

○ Holiday Preparation Courses – Stay tuned to our website for more information about these opportunities to spiritually and educationally prepare yourself to celebrate our festive holidays.

○  Adult Bat Mitzvah Class – Rabbi Jacknis instituted this very special course of study a few years ago, and more than eighteen women and one man underwent the thrilling journey. Most couldn’t even read Hebrew when the classes began, but by their completion, each proudly ascended the Melville JC bimah to lead the Shabbat morning service and add their unique voice to our collective heritage. An emotional high point was reached as everyone read either a Torah or Haftarah portion. Contact the Rabbi if you are interested in this class.

○ Chai Institute – Community Hebrew Adult Education Institute is a cooperative Adult Education program sponsored by ten Reform and Conservative congregations in Suffolk County. It runs for six consecutive weeks, one to two times a year – each fall following the High Holidays and, occasionally, in the spring. It offers local clergy-led courses and leading guest scholars at each session, and our Rabbis have been proud to be a popular educator in this institution.  Click here to get more information and register.