Learn with us
We offer a robust selection of classes. No matter your interests or schedule, there's something for everyone. Explore offerings and find the perfect fit for your learning journey!
Read on to learn about our different series
Adult Education Calendar
See below of for a full listing of adult education offerings. Please check back throughout the year as classes are added. Scroll down to see classes by category.
Unlocking the Jewish Library: Encountering Judaism’s Sacred Texts
The library of Jewish sacred literature is a vast ocean. Spanning more than 3,500 years, these texts were written across continents, cultures, and centuries. They speak in many voices and genres—from narrative and poetry to legal discourse and spiritual reflection. Each generation builds upon what came before, creating an ongoing conversation that links us to our ancestors while inviting us to bring our own experiences, questions and insights.
This 28-week course, led by eight different teachers, offers an accessible introduction to the major genres of Jewish sacred literature and the relationships between them. Together we will explore Mishnah, Talmud, Midrash, Halachah, Responsa (Teshuvot), Tefilah, Chasidut, Kabbalah–with the aim of gaining a deeper appreciation for the texts that continue to shape Jewish life and tradition.
Participants are encouraged to join the full course (all eight modules), but are also welcome to register for individual modules. Classes are designed to be engaging and meaningful for both beginners and seasoned learners. No prior knowledge or experience is required—only curiosity and a willingness to explore.
SundaY Cafe
Join the CBI Adult Education Committee on select Sundays for a presentation and discussion along with coffee and conversation. Program runs 10:30–11 am coffee and nosh, 11 am–12 pm presentation and discussion.
other classes
Join us for other learning opportunities that are added throughout the year.
Visiting Guest Artist (Oct 28-Nov 1)
We are pleased to host Michal Shahak, somatic therapist, artist and performer from Israel for a series of programs entitled: "Moving Through: Reflections and Performance on Times of Crisis."
Michal Shahak, MA, DMT, is an Israeli Senior Somatic Experiencing® (SE) Practitioner and a faculty member for the School for Body-Mind Centering® (BMC). Holding degrees in Dance and Movement Education (BA) and Dance-Movement Therapy (MA), Michal brings thirty years of global teaching and clinical experience to the fields of somatic movement and trauma recovery. She taught in BMC training programs across Europe, Brazil, and the US, and maintains a private clinical practice in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv integrating BMC, SE, Dance-Movement Therapy, and somatic practices.
The program is made possible in part thanks to a grant from the Jewish Endowment Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts.
Weekly Parsha Class
Join CBI Rabbis or guest leaders for a discussion of the weekly Torah portion. All are welcome, no prior knowledge or experience required. Each session stands alone, feel free to come whenever it works for you. And please feel free to bring your own lunch! In person only. No registration required.
Adult Ed Committee
The Adult Education Committee is comprised of Abigial G-P, Penina Glazer, Phyllis Eckstein, Larry Fine, Joshua Roth, Dave Gorin, Vivian Bresnitz, Dean Hartshorn, and Clara Rosenberg.