Temple Emanu-El will once again offer Taste of Judaism, a free introductory class on Jewish spirituality, values and community, with four sessions beginning next month and one beginning in late September.
More than 4,500 people have completed the course offered by Temple Emanu-El, now in its 14th year. Rabbis Samuel M. Cohon and Jason Holtz lead an interactive exploration of Jewish history and practice, history and culture, rituals and traditions, in three two-hour sessions, with homemade “tastes” of traditional Jewish foods included.
The series is open to all, regardless of religious background or affiliation. “The key to Taste’s success is that we are able to make the joy of Judaism available to everyone, while preserving the intellectual and moral integrity of our great tradition,” says Cohon.
Daytime and evening classes are available, including the Taste of Judaism Family Class presented in partnership with Tucson Hebrew Academy: adults enjoy the regular Taste class with the rabbis, while children have their own program of Jewish stories, crafts and activities with THA teachers.
The family class will be held Sundays, Aug. 11, 18 and 25 from 2 to 4 p.m. at THA. A northwest class will be held Mondays, Aug. 12, 19 and 26 from 6-8 p.m. at Nanini Library, 7300 N. Shannon Road. The eastside class will be Wednesdays, Aug. 14, 21 and 28 at the Ramada Inn, 6944 E. Tanque Verde Road.Two sessions will be held at Temple Emanu-El: Thursdays, Aug. 15, 22 and 29, from 6 to 8 p.m.; and Sundays, Sept. 29, October 6 and 13, from 1-3 p.m. Free childcare will be provided for the afternoon session at the synagogue.
Pre-registration is required; contact Mila Vasser at 327-4501, ext. 16 or mila@templeemanueltucson.org.
