Current Adult Educational Programs:

Energizing Jewish Practice
Join the Mitzvah Initiative

My life changed over a decade ago, when I felt a yearning for greater meaning and purpose. I was walking my dog, Brandy, thinking about my life. I had good friends, a good job, a good girlfriend, a good life. But as I walked Brandy on that sunny August afternoon, I wondered if there was more to life.
This wonder and quest for purpose has been the catalyst for my exploration of and engagement with Judaism. Much of the joy and meaning of being your rabbi comes from being able to pursue this quest with you, together, in community. I invite you to join me in this search for meaning and purpose through Jewish tradition in our Adult Education program for the year 5771.
We are embarking on this journey as a part of the Mitzvah Initiative at Congregation Sha’are Shalom. The Mitzvah Initiative, created by Chancellor Arnold Eisen of the Jewish Theological Seminary, is a set of 14 discussions during which we will consider the following questions:
1. What are the relationships and responsibilities that give my life meaning and purpose?
2. What opportunities does Judaism offer me to I express these thoughts?
3. What sources of Jewish wisdom can expand my thinking?
4. What might I learn about the source of my feelings for Judaism and Jewish life?
5. What would it be like to share these conversations with others in the Sha’are Shalom community and with Rabbi Ragozin?
How can my family and I enhance our connection with the Jewish tradition? Together, we will explore topics such as: What does Jewish tradition really mean by the word mitzvah? Is there more than one definition? What does it mean to be commanded? How do I visit someone who is sick? How do I “honor” my parents in action? Why is it inspiring to hear someone talk about their passion for the environment, tzedekah (charity), or tikkun olam (social action)? Where do Shabbat and prayer fit into these ideas about mitzvah? What makes these experiences spiritual?
The Mitzvah Initiative is about energizing Jewish practice as individuals, as families, and as a total community. Through our personal and communal efforts, we will also be joining with over forty Conservative congregations throughout the country, discussing the same questions. Please join me, Rabbi Ragozin, as we explore these questions together and encounter new perspectives on how to live an engaged Jewish life today.

 When: Sundays from 9:00am – 10:15am OR Fridays from 9:15am – 10:30am
 Dates:
 Sundays: Sept 19, Oct 3, 24, Nov 7, 14, Dec 5, 19, Jan 9, 23, 30, Feb 13, 27, Mar 13, 27
Fridays: Sept 17, Oct 8, 29, Nov 5, 12, Dec 3, 17, Jan 7, 21, 28, Feb 11, 25, Mar 11, 25
 Where: social hall or admin pod
 Registration: via email to Rabbi Ragozin, rabbi@sha-areshalom.org, by September 12. Please indicate Sunday or Friday.
 Cost: $20

Ketiva vechatima tova – a happy and healthy New Year,
Rabbi Michael Ragozin