For centuries, the Beit Midrash (“house of study”) has been the beating heart of Jewish life: a place to question, debate, and wrestle with ideas as a community. That tradition continues in Omaha’s Jewish community.
Each month, a different clergy member from our community synagogues leads a session on a topic that matters, from Torah to ethics to history. Because our clergy spans different denominations, every session offers a new perspective, and you’ll leave with new insight and connections.
This is Jewish learning at its most authentic: communal, challenging, and open to everyone.
You may fill out this form as many times necessary to register for additional dates.
All sessions are held at the Staenberg Omaha JCC.
Light Kosher lunch served at each session. No cost to attend.
Drop in for one session or join us monthly. However you show up, you belong here.
Make sure to like, comment and subscribe!
For more information on how this series was formed, read the Jewish Press article.
Questions? Contact Naomi Fox, Director of Community Engagement & Education, at nfox@jewishomaha.org or 402.334.6424.
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.
The 2026 class is full. Please click the link below to join the wait list for the Intro to Judaism course in the Spring of 2027. We will maintain your contact information and you will be in the group first notified of the details for that class.
Jill Idelman is a seasoned facilitator and leadership development trainer with over 25 years of invaluable experience in the Omaha Jewish Community. She’s been an active member of Temple Israel for 27 years, having served on the Temple Board. Jill’s dedication shines as she previously completed 17 years of teaching 2nd grade Hebrew and Judaica at Temple Israel, nurturing young minds in faith and tradition. Jill also has visited Israel on two occasions and loves to share her experiences from those journeys.
An integral part of Temple Israel Choir, Kol Rina, Jill’s passion for music and community harmonize effortlessly. Her commitment to personal growth extends beyond her community involvement, evidenced by her certification as a Gallup Strength Coach. In her profession, Jill is a Leadership Development Trainer, and has built her career at Medical Solutions for over 12 years. With a keen eye for talent and potential, Jill has mentored numerous individuals in their career development journey, guiding them towards their full potential.
Jill’s multifaceted expertise and unwavering dedication make her a cornerstone of leadership within both her community and professional spheres.
