Adult Education
At Temple Sinai, learning is a lifelong journey. Our adult education programs open doors to Jewish wisdom, tradition, and community connection. Whether you’re deepening your knowledge, discovering something new, or simply seeking thoughtful conversation, you’ll find a welcoming space to explore, grow, and be inspired.
Check out these fall 2025 learning opportunities
at Temple Sinai
Upcoming Classes
-
Israel Trip Brunch & Learn
Sunday, October 12 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Join Rabbi David Edleson for brunch and an informative session about the upcoming Temple Sinai Israel mission trip. Learn about the itinerary, highlights, and opportunities for meaningful and eye opening learning in Israel. Brunch will be served. In person only.
-
Talmud al Fresco: Learning in the Sukkah
Sunday, October 12 1:00 – 2:30 PM
Jewish wisdom tastes different when studied in the open air. Come learn with Rabbi David in the sukkah and see how our tradition of debate and dialogue comes alive in this unique, seasonal classroom. We’ll also explore the spiritual practice of learning Talmud in the sukkah—how its fragile walls invite us to open our minds to new perspectives. Snacks and drinks will be provided. In person only.
-
New! Temple Sinai Book Group
Starting Monday, November 3 at 5:30 PM at Temple.
We’ll begin with Hannah Senesh: Her Life and Diary and plan to meet once a month, with future books chosen together as a group. Facilitated initially by Jen Prue. In person only.
➡️ Please purchase your own copy of the book here and read the diary portion (pages 1–166) before our first meeting. Bring your book, bring a snack (yes, wine is welcome), and bring your curiosity. Come ready to read, talk, and enjoy community.
-
Strange & Sacred: A Night with the Talmud’s Wildest Stories
Sunday, November 23 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Following our outdoor “Talmud al Fresco” session, join Rabbi David for an evening of text, food, and conversation inspired by The Boy on the Door on the Ox: An Unusual Spiritual Journey Through the Strangest Jewish Texts. Together, we’ll taste some of the most surprising, puzzling, and playful passages in Jewish tradition—stories that stretch the imagination and invite us to see holiness through encounters with text. Dinner will be provided. In person only.
Curious about Judaism? Whether you’re married to or dating someone Jewish, considering conversion, reconnecting after time away, or hoping to become a more informed Jewish parent, this 15-session Introduction to Judaism course is designed for you.
Together we’ll explore Jewish practice and ideas through Reform and Conservative perspectives, study in chevruta (paired learning), join in discussions, and share experiences that deepen our understanding. Topics will include Jewish views on human nature, God, ethics, holidays, and culture. The first class, Opening the Gates, takes place on Sunday, September 14 and is open to all.
After a short break (no classes September 14–October 18), the course resumes October 19 and continues in person at Temple Sinai. Cost is $100 per person, with financial assistance available.
For questions, please contact Aimee Loiter at aimee.loiter@templesinaivt.org.
15 Sundays, 3:00–5:00 PM Beginning September 14, 2025
Introduction to Judaism Course
Taught by Rabbi David Edleson
@ Temple Sinai
Discover the joy of chanting Torah! Have you ever wanted to learn but didn’t know where to begin? This fall, Temple Sinai is offering a special 8-session Adult Learning course with Judy Alexander, our beloved former Education Director of more than 20 years. Judy has guided generations of students in unlocking the beauty of Torah chanting, and now she’s ready to lead you through the powerful tradition of Torah cantillation (trope).
By the end of the course, you’ll have the confidence and skills to step up to the Torah—at Temple Sinai and beyond. Classes meet Wednesdays, October 8 through December 3 (no class November 26) from 7:00–8:15 PM at Temple Sinai, 500 Swift St., South Burlington. Open to adults and teens who want to learn—or refresh—their Torah chanting skills (Hebrew reading required). Participants should purchase The Art of Torah Cantillation from Behrman House.
Cost: free for Temple members, $144 for non-members. Spots are limited, so register today!
8 Wednesdays, 7:00-8:15 PM Beginning October 8th
Learn the Art of Torah Cantillation
Taught by Judy Alexander
@ Temple Sinai
Follow the Textline by Exploring Our Library
Looking for your next Jewish read? Our Library has just been refreshed with both classics and new works in Jewish thought, history, and culture. More titles are being added each week.
Click HERE for a full list of available books »
Stop by, check something out, and start your own journey of Jewish learning this year.
What would your year look like if you began again—with Torah?
On October 18, we start the Torah anew with Bereshit. Rabbi David has called us to move beyond “thin Judaism” into a Judaism rooted in study and reflection. Torah Study is how we thicken our Judaism, strengthen ourselves, and strengthen one another.
📖 Saturdays at 10:30 AM | Temple Sinai
No registration. No Hebrew required. All are welcome.
Torah Study
Jewish Study Group
Great Learning Outside of Temple Sinai
Learn to Read and Write Hebrew Online with the Union of Reform Judaism
Get started with the Aleph-Bet! Developed specifically for online learning, each session introduces new material and includes practice with an experienced instructor in a collaborative classroom environment. Registration includes online access to all class materials, including audio recordings of each practice exercise. Participants will be asked to purchase a workbook.
The URJ offers two online Hebrew courses:
Learn to Read Hebrew for Adults, an online ten-session course. Learn the shapes and sounds of the Hebrew alphabet, with a warm and supportive educator to guide you.
Reading Hebrew Prayers, an online six-session course for those who can slowly sound out Hebrew words. Gain comfort and fluency reading Shabbat prayers in Hebrew.
For more information click here.
Israel at War with the Shalom Hartman Institute
Hartman scholars in North America and Israel share their thoughts & perspectives on the Israel-Hamas war.
Read. Watch. Listen. To learn more and register click here.
Online Resources
Hebrew
Classes:
Apps:
Read and Write Hebrew by Yodea - for language
Birkon Mikdash M'at - for prayers
Torah:
For more information contact:
Aimee Loiter, Education Director - aimee.loiter@templesinaivt.org
802-862-5125
Click HERE to schedule a meeting.