Omaha is blessed with a Jewish community whose members have deep affection for each other and for their spiritual leaders, regardless of which congregation they happen to belong to. Embracing our desire to be together and learn together, this exciting Beit Midrash (house of study) gives all of Jewish Omaha the opportunity to engage in spirited and challenging cross-denominational study with local rabbis and cantors. This space fosters discussion and friendly debate, allowing students and teachers to share ideas and deepen their understanding of Jewish teachings. Such a communal learning environment is essential for personal growth and the preservation of Jewish traditions.

During each Beit Midrash, a different clergy member from our community synagogues will select and present a pertinent topic of their choice. All sessions are held at the Staenberg Omaha JCC. Light Kosher refreshments served at each session. No cost to attend.

Jun. 4 | 12:00-1:00 | Beth Israel Synagogue

Dec. 4 | Rabbi Deana Berezin of Temple Israel discusses Jewish Rituals and their roots in the Talmud. Watch HERE.

Jan. 8 | Rabbi Eli Tenenbaum from Chabad Nebraska discusses how the Torah applies to questions in our modern world with “A Contemporary 3,500 Year Old Book: Torah, The Guide to Life in the 21st Century and Beyond.” Watch HERE.

Feb. 5 | Rabbi Benjamin Sharff of Temple Israel discusses: How does the End of Days play into some Evangelical Support for the State of Israel – how did this theological concept arise and what are we to make of it? Watch HERE.

Apr. 2 | Hazzan Michael Krausman of Beth El Synagogue discusses Pesach in Prayer, Poetry and Song. Watch HERE.

May 14 | Shani Katzman from Chabad of Nebraska discusses: True Love is “Need” less. Relationships with soul don’t have needs – a dive into the Jewish perspective. Watch HERE.

Drop in for one session, or become a regular attendee – everyone is welcome.

Register

You may fill out this form as many times necessary to register for additional dates.

Shalom is a wonderful Hebrew word that means hello, goodbye, AND peace. With all three of these definitions, we are delighted to welcome you to “Intro to Judaism” a course brought to you by the Jewish Federation of Omaha.

In this class you are encouraged to ask questions, interact with other learners, consider multiple perspectives, and discover what is meaningful to you in Judaism. We’ll explore Jewish holidays and life-cycle ceremonies, beliefs, values, prayer, Jewish texts, Israel and the American Jewish experience.

Intro to Judaism includes opportunities to experience Jewish locations in Omaha, including synagogues and the Jewish Community Center.  You can learn from professionals who deal with a variety of areas related to the religion. The course will culminate with a panel discussion with the community’s rabbis and clergy who will each provide a perspective on Judaism through the lens of their respective congregations.

This 11-session, sequential course is suited for interfaith couples, those raising Jewish children, individuals considering conversion, and anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of Jewish life, no matter faith tradition, cultural background or religious upbringing.

Classes held at the Staenberg Omaha JCC.
Intro to Judaism is offered once a year. Class size is limited.

2025 CLASS SESSION FULL

The 2025 class is full. Please click the link below to join the wait list for the Intro to Judaism course in the Spring of 2026. We will maintain your contact information and you will be in the group first notified of the details for that class.

JOIN WAITLIST

Class Updates

 

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