How our Adult EducationProgram is Organized

Our adult education offerings are dividedinto three categories, corresponding to thethree core values of Mount Zion’s vision:

Life-long Learning t Sacred Texts t Hebrew

In this category, you will find courses, lectures, and discussions on Torah and othersacred Jewish literature. You will also findlessons at all levels in the Hebrew languagethrough which we are best able to access thesesacred texts.

Worship t Liturgy t SpiritualityHere you will find classes covering topics onreligion and spirituality, including liturgy,life-cycles, theology, holiday rituals, and Jew-ish music and chanting. Through these offerings, we enrich our spirituality and themeaning of our worship services.

Acts of Loving Kindness andJustice tSocial Action t

Community Issues tCulture & Israel

In this grouping, we have gathered a varietyof learning experiences from the treasure troveof Jewish culture, history, politics, and art,seeking ways to better connect to one another,to our spiritual home in Israel, and to theAmerican society in which we live.

MaZAL . Mount ZionAdultLearning5776 - 2015/2016

The MaZAL Program has been dedicated by Joan and Richard Newmark through a generous giftin memory of their parents, Rose and Sol Friedman & Anne and Nathan Newmark.

Inside this brochure are classes and one-time programs for all kinds oflearners. Browse and find something that sparks your curiosity.

More offerings are still being planned for the year.

TORAH vru,

AVODAH vsucg

GEMILUT CHASADIM

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To register for any class, go towww.mzion.org or contact Julie

Beckman at jbeckman@mzion.orgAbout our name: MaZALMaZALThe word mazal, often pronounced with a Yiddish inflection, “mazel” as in “mazel tov,” comes from the Hebrew word which means “luck”. In truth, the word means“a group of stars’ or a “constellation.” Medieval Jews paid close attention to the “mazalot,” the constellations, and in fact, we find representation of the constellations through-out the ancient Jewish world. Jews have always found meaning in astrology, as it represented the vast possibilities of the world created by God. As countless are the starsin the night sky, so too, are the paths of Jewish study. As we partake in adult Jewish learning, we offer a few of those paths, leaving many more for tomorrow. It is ourMaZAL to learn. Come learn and enjoy!

ReformJudaism Beyond the Basics – What Do ^ Jews Believe?From Torah and Talmud to TodayWhat we believe, from our theology to our values, impacts what we do everyday. We began this series of classes two years ago focused on topics from tat-toos to cremation. This year we will continue to examine other questions ofpersonal choice and belief where Judaism may influence our decisions andviews. Regardless of your own choices, you will leave these classes better in-formed. All are welcome regardless of level of Jewish knowledge. Hebrewtexts will be used in part but will be fully translated. Talmudic texts will beused in each session along with Reform Jewish statements and responsa (rab-binic, scholarly answers to contemporary issues and questions). These classesare open to the public. Each session is a stand-alone class, but themes willemerge from attending all of them.

About Everything! Wed, Oct 28, 7:30-9pm Rabbi SpilkerCome study “A Statement of Principles for Reform Judaism (1999)”. This is thefourth such statement in over 100 years! Previous ones were in 1885, 1937, and1975. The headlines range from God to Torah to Israel. If you want the one-stop-session to learn what Reform Jews believe, this is the session for you.

Physician Assisted SuicideMon, Nov 16, 7-8:30 pm Rabbi SpilkerWhat is Physician Assisted Suicide? What are the Jewish ways of understandingend-of-life decision making and how to balance quality of life with the value of life?

Mon, Nov 30, 7-8:30 pmA doctor and lawyer meet a rabbi to discuss the practical decision making thatsome may face.

Dying, Death, and Mourning: A Practicum Before You Need ItMon, Feb 29, 7-8:30 pm Rabbi AdlerHow do I know if I’m doing the right thing? Jewish Views on Death andDying and Mourning

Mon, Mar 14, 7-8:30 pm The Funeral Home – A Visit to Hodroffs Funeral Home

Mon, Apr 4, 7-8:30 pm Preparing for Dying: Creating Your Health DirectiveA doctor, lawyer, and rabbi offer some practical and soulful advice.

. A v o d a h e W o r s h i p

A Taste of Honey:An Introduction to Judaism

Member: $36, Public: $75

Mondays, October 12 - December 287:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Rabbi Esther Adler

This course provides studentswith a basic understanding ofJewish practice and belief.Topics include Jewish history,life cycle, Shabbat, theology,home observance and more!If you are interested in learning more about Judaismand/or thinking about conversion. Completion ofthe Taste of Honey class is a requirement for conversion.

Our Bodies, Our Souls19th Annual Jewish Retreat for Women

In the Image:

Jewish Women and ArtFriday Evening to Saturday EveningSave the Date: January 22-23, 2016

Men’s RetreatSave the Date:

Friday-Sunday, May 13-15, 2016

Shabbat Shuvah - Mussar for ThoughtFriday, September 18

Shabbat for the Soul / Mussar for Thought - We willfollow this schedule: a reflective, meditative sessionabout Mussar before services and a more intimateShabbat service either in Johnson Social Hall or Mar-golis Hall on Fridays, October 30, December 18,March 18, and May 20

6:15 p.m. The Making of a Mensch13 minute film by the director of “the Tribe” Tiffany Shlain, followed by discussionled by Rabbi Spilker. The film is based on the teaching of Mussar.

7:30 p.m. Shabbat for the Soul in Johnson Social Hall

A Shabbat service with a different atmosphere, designed to touch our souls in newways. This service will be led by clergy, professional musicians, and members fromour Guitar Corps.

Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time 72 Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time

. T o r a h

Shabbat-Open Torah StudyStudying the weekly Torah portions with our Rabbis.

9:00 - 10:00 a.m. (ongoing) at Mount Zion TempleThis weekly study group is open to regular attendees and those who are able to drop in onceor periodically -- people of all ages, knowledge and background. Through reading and discussion of the weekly parashah/Torah portion, participants will learn the stories of Torahand make them come alive in their own lives.

Torah MondaysRabbi Esther Adler

12:00-1:00 p.m. (ongoing)

at Mount Zion Temple

Take a lunch break from your busy life and join this

Torah discussion. We read through the text and com-

mentaries, and respond with our own experiences, ideas,

and events of the day to illuminate the intricate rela-

tionships that evolved among our ancestors. We are cur-

rently studying the weekly Haftarah portions.

Bring Your Lunch!

Thursday: Genesis with RashiRabbi Adam Stock Spilker12:00 - 1:00 p.m. (ongoing)220 S. 6th St., Suite 1800 Minneapolis (US Bank Building)Fill your spirit with food for the soul over lunch in a

downtown conference room. Study the book of Genesis

the way it has been studied for centuries, with the great

commentator Rashi as our guide. Come once or regularly

and enjoy the camaraderie of a chevruta, the Talmudic way

of learning with one’s friends and colleagues. Bring Your Lunch!

Torah at the Center...Every week, three times to study Torah.

Stop by anytime. No experience/background necessary.

. Gemilut Chasadim eActs of Loving Kindness & Just ice Israel Book Discussions

Meet in the Mount Zion LibraryJoin us for an engaging conversation about Israeli life through its liter-ature. Even if you cannot read the book in advance, you are welcome.Questions? Contact Charles at CSFodor@aol.com or Jonathan at jkeisenthal@comcast.net.

Between Friends by Amos OzMonday, September 21, 7 p.m.

"The mind is a place Oz explores master-fully in all its contradiction, texture andheartache. Between Friends paints the dailylives behind utopian dreams, fully realized.”-New York Daily News

Schedule for the YearNovember 2: Let it be Morning by Kashua SayedJanuary 4: The Garden of Ruth by Eva Etzioni-HalevyMarch 7: Closing the Sea by Yedudit KatzirMay 2: The Smile of the Lamb by David GrossmanJuly 11: The One Facing Us by Ronit MatalonSeptember 11: The Blue Mountain by Meir ShalevNovember 7: Returning Lost Loves by Yehoshua Kehaz

Great Expectations: A Program for Expecting ParentsSunday, March 6, 9:30 a.m - 10:30 a.m. (No Cost)

Cantor Jennifer Strauss-Klein

Great Expectations is an opportunity for expectant individuals andcouples to gather in an intimate setting for a Jewish perspectiveon pregnancy, birth, baby namings, briss and what it means to bea new parent. Participants will be able to share their concerns,questions and ideas as well as get advice about prayers to bring tothe hospital, Hebrew names and ways to connect to the synagogueand Judaism with their new families.

What Makes Food Jewish? A Scholar-in-Residence Weekend - November 19-22

Tina Wassermanauthor of the new, bestselling cookbook,

Entrée to Judaism: A Culinary Exploration of the Jewish Diaspora

Thursday, November 19, 6 p.m.Special, exclusive event at Brasserie Zentral Restaurant (Minneapolis)with Chef Russell Klein (Tina’s nephew and owner of Zentral). A full, four-course dinner with wine pairings and commentary from Russell Klein andTina Wasserman. Look for invitation by mail for pricing and RSVP.

Friday, November 20, 7:30 p.m. During ServicesBeyond Brisket and Bagels: 1492 and its impact on world cuisine.After services, the Oneg will includes desserts from her talk.

Saturday, November 211 p.m.: What makes food Jewish? Food as Memory7 p.m.: Thanksgiving and Chanukah Recipes: A Demo Class. Look for invitation by mail for pricing and RSVP.

Sunday, November 22 Making Challah and Learning its History For all Religious Schoolstudents and parents. (Part of Bread and Torah Program).

Climate Change and Social Justice: Actions at the IntersectionsMon., October 12, 7-9:15 p.m. at Pilgrim Lutheran Church (1935 St. Clair Ave, St Paul)

Mon., October 26 (tentative) at Masjid An Nur in Minneapolis

Stewardship is a common theme inmany religions and spiritual traditions.What does it really mean? Respect, relationship, compassion, tending, rightconduct, non-injury to the earth and it'screatures… As stewards and active community members we want to know:

What does our faith require of us?•What do just actions look like?•How are threats such as climate change and social justice •interconnected?

Explore these questions and discover new opportunities for "Actions atthe Intersections." Together we will learn more about Climate Changeand Social Justice as framed by the host congregation and will also hearabout on the ground opportunity to engage in Socially Just CommunitySolar initiatives.

For more details, including registration, go to mzion.org. Contact jmbhaan@comcast.net or Muhammad@mnipl.org with any questions.

Co-sponsored by MNIJP (Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light), SPIN (St. PaulInterfaith Network), Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, and Mount Zion Temple

Taste of MeltonTues., Sept.8, 7:00-8:30 p.m. at Adath Jeshurun

Explore the hows, whats and whysof Jewish living through the Florence Melton School of AdultJewish Learning. Come for a“taste”and meet the teachers, samplea lesson, and experience Melton’s text-based, discussion oriented approach in a free sample class.

This two-year course is ideal for those looking to deepen their understanding of the basics of Judaism and Jewish living. Each les-son is designed to inspire and enlighten students irrespective of theirprior experience or background.

Classes for year one of this wonderful program will beginon Monday, October 12 and run through early May.Melton in the Twin Cities is sponsored by Hineni of the TalmudTorah of St. Paul, in partnership with local agencies and synagogues.

For more info or to RSVP for the Taste of Melton, please contactSara Lynn Newberger at sara.lynn@ttsp.org or 651-698-8807.

Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time 36 Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time

. T o r a hLearn Hebrew This Year!Follow synagogue services, be more involved in your children’s Jewish education, or simply enhance your ownties to Judaism.

Tuition per class (includes all materials): $75 members/$100 non-members(Minimum 5 students for all classes).

Introduction to HebrewWeds., October 21 – January 13, 4:30 – 5:45 p.m. (ten classes)

4:30 – 5:45 p.m. Hebrew Reading Crash CourseInstructor: Siana GoodwinLearn the aleph-bet, Hebrew letter and sound recognition,basic words and phrases related to our liturgy.

6:00 – 7:15 p.m. Aleph Isn’t ToughInstructor: Kent SimonIntroduction to the aleph-bet, basic grammar and Hebrewroots. Acquire the tools to start decoding our Hebrew texts.

NEW THIS YEAR!Hebrew Reading Practice, Part 2For those familiar with the aleph-bet, we will be reading from theTanakh, learning to recognize word roots and constructions and increasing familiarity with Hebrew words, phrases, and rhythms.

Sundays, October 11 – January 10, 9:45-11:00a.m. (ten classes)

Instructor: Siana Goodwin

Introduction to Hebrew Part II Wednesdays, January 20 – March 30 (ten classes)

4:30 – 5:45 p.m. Hebrew Reading PracticeInstructor: Siana GoodwinSolidify your Hebrew skills with practice reading aloud from oursiddur. Includes some basic vocabulary and grammar.

6:00 – 7:15 p.m. Aleph Isn’t EnoughInstructor: Kent SimonExpand your knowledge of basic Hebrew with reading practicefor improved speed and pronunciation, more grammar, and vo-cabulary building.

To register for all classes, go to mzion.org.Note: If you are interested in learning basic Hebrew but these timesdon’t work for you, or if you have questions about our Hebrew offerings,please contact Siana Goodwin at sgoodwin2@comcast.net.

“The golden key to Jewish education isthe Hebrew Language.”

-- Hayyim Nahman Bialik, Things Known by Heart, 1935.

. Gemilut Chasadim e Acts of Loving Kindness & Just ice Food for Thought

Learn and Nosh before Shabbat Services5:45 - 6:15 p.m. Gathering and a Light Nosh

6:15 - 7:15 p.m. Food for Thought DiscussionsDiscussion over wine, juice, and light appetizers.

Child care available.

Third Friday of the Month October-April (except December)

October 9: When Judaism and Neuroscience Speak the Same LanguageDavid Alter, PhD

November 13:Building a Dementia Friendly CommunityBetsy Ellis and Chris Rosenthal

January 16:Tzedek – Timely Discussion(s) on the theme of Justice - MartinLuther King, Jr Weekend.

February 19, March 18, April 15

Who? Reform Jews committed to having Judaism inform their daily lives.Congregational officers, board members, committee chairs and adult learners areencouraged to participate.

What? 10 minutes a day of personal connection to a Jewish text, issueor topic. Each day has a separate theme:

Monday - Reform Voices of TorahTuesday - Celebrating Jewish Arts and Culture

Wednesday - Israel ConnectionsThursdays - Throwback Thursday

Friday - Weekly news updates

How? Each weekday morning (Monday-Friday) an e-mail will be de-livered to your inbox for you to study at your convenience.

Study that Matches Your Lifestyle - Sign up atwww.urj.org/learning/torah/ten.

. E - S t u d y

TORAH ON THE WEB:www.urj.org/torah - An excellent commentary on the Torah portion.www.urj.org/shabbat - The Reform Movement’s weekly commentarydesigned to inspire discussions at your Shabbat table.www.urj.org/learning/torah/ten - 10 Minutes of Torah - Receiveweekly emails of Torah commentary and reflections on current events(see below).www.urj.org/torah/ten/eilu/ A point/counterpoint model with dialogue between two scholars and provides for your active participation. www.myjewishlearning.com - Resource on everything from holidaysto mysticism.

Save the date:

Saturday, February 6, 2016St. Paul Jewish Community night of learning atTalmud Torah of St. Paul.

ENGAGE with top notch teachers in anevening of lively Jewish learning. Rabbis, university professors and lay leaders share theirpassions in a wide array of classes.

Symposium marking the 50th anniversary of the SecondVatican Council's Nostra Aetate: Declaration on the

Relationship of the Church to Non-Christian Religions

October 12 (afternoon sessions, evening banquet, and keynote address)October 13 (morning sessions)University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN

Speakers: Mary C. Boys, Catherine Cornille, Peter Feldmeier,Sandra Keating, Ruth Langer, Bradley Malkovsky, AnantanandRambachan, Mark Unno, and Homayra Ziad

As four religions other than Christianity - Hinduism, Buddhism,Islam, and Judaism - are mentioned (in that order) in Nostra Aetate,the symposium will have four sessions devoted respectively to Hindu-Christian relations, Buddhist-Christian relations, Muslim-Christianrelations, and Jewish-Christian relations. Each of these sessions willfeature two lectures - one by a Catholic scholar and one by a scholarfrom another religion - followed by a discussion. In addition to thethese four sessions, there will be a banquet and a keynote address onthe overall theme of the symposium.

For more details go to stthomas.edu/jpc.

Gaza, the IDF Code of Ethics,and the Morality of WarMoshe Halbertal, NYU Law School, Hebrew UniversitySunday, November. 1, 7:30 p.m. at Beth El Synagogue (5225 Barry St. W., St. Louis Park)

What moral and legal principles should guide an army in a complexconfrontation that involves a tragic loss of civilian life and other majorcollateral damage? What values has the Israel Defense Forces (IDF)committed itself to uphold in times of war? How do we arrive at anhonest account of what actually happened in Gaza, in light of com-peting moral considerations and the realities that Israel faced? In thewake of the Gaza war, what lessons can Israel learn,and how should Israel proceed?

Moshe Halbertal is the Gruss Professor at NYU Law School,a Professor of Jewish Thought and Philosophy at the HebrewUniversity, a Professor of Law at IDC and a member of Israel’sNational Academy for Sciences and the Humanities. Heserved as a visiting professor at Harvard Law School, Univer-sity of Pennsylvania Law School and Yale Law School, andwas a fellow at the Society of Fellows at Harvard University.

4 Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time 5

. Torah

Engaging TorahScholar-in-Residence with Michael Carasik, author of The Commentators’ Bible

Thursday-Shabbat, Oct 22-24, 2015

Thursday, Oct 22 (12-1:15 p.m.) - RASHI AND HIS FRIENDSWith the Rashi Study Group and Open to All

New Location: Fredrikson and Byron - 200 South Sixth Street - Suite 4000

In memory of William “Bill” Kampf on his 10th Yahrzeit; Founder of Rashi Study Group and Mount Zion Past-President

He’s famous, he’s fabulous, he’s French — and he is the greatest of all Jewish scholars of Bible and of Talmud, too.

He is R. Solomon Isaacs (1040-1105), who under the name of Rashi has been the ordinary Jew’s guide through

Torah and Talmud for the last 900 years. Along the way, we will meet his famous grandson, Rashbam; Rashbam’s

antagonist, Abraham ibn Ezra; and Nahmanides, who some say was responsible for uniting all four men on the pages of the Rabbinic

Bible. We will then look at the verse of the week from Genesis 25 with new insight.

LIFE AND TIMES OF THE COMMENTATORS’ BIBLEShabbat - Friday, Oct 23 (7:30 pm-During Shabbat Services) The first words of the Commentators’ Bible were written on September 11th, 2001.  You’ll learn about how the Commentators’ Bible

was created and designed and get a peek inside the process of creating the Genesis volume.  (And you’ll find out why that volume

comes last!) 

THE BIBLE’S MANY VOICESShabbat - Saturday, Oct 24, 1:00 p.m. Dr. Carasik will also lead the 9 am Torah Study on the weekly portion Lech LechaThe Bible in English, as most of us encounter it, all “sounds the same.” It was translated at more-or-less the same time by people of

similar backgrounds (and indeed sometimes by a single person). But the actual Bible is in Hebrew, not English, and it collects material

that was composed over a period of 1,000 years. This talk will introduce you to some of the many voices clamoring for their say in

the Bible, sometimes harmonizing and sometimes in discord. You will not look at the Bible the same way again after hearing it.

Michael Carasik, PhD, is the author/translator of The Commentators’ Bible: The Rubin JPS

Miqra’ot Gedolot. He teaches Biblical Hebrew at the University of Pe nnsylvania and is the weekday Torah reader at Historic Congregation Kesher Israel in Center City Philadelphia. He re-ceived his Ph.D. in Bible and the Ancient Near East from Brandeis University, and has taught atvarious universities. His weekly ‘’Torah Talk’’ podcast is available at mcarasik.wordpress.com.

. A v o d a h e W o r s h i p

Please join us for intergenerational worship and learning with our Artist-in-Residence, Ellen Allard

Song, Spirit, and CelebrationFriday-Sunday, November 6-8

Ellen Allard, multi-award winning recording artist, composer, performer,and educator, is one of the most popular and influential Jewish musiciansand educators on today’s vibrant contemporary Jewish music scene. Widelyrecognized for her appeal to audiences of all ages, Ellen’s songs have becomethe gold standard when it comes to engaging children and adults of all agesand helping them strengthen their Jewish identities. With a strong com-mitment to building community through music, Ellen has a unique, charis-matic, charming, and heartwarming way of inviting audiences to sing along,whether performing a concert, facilitating a student or teacher workshop, orleading a worship service.

Friday, November 6:6:30 p.m.Ellen joins with our clergy, Shir Tzion, and Shir Chants in a powerful, uplifting Shabbat experience for all ages.

8:00 p.m.Congregational Dinner honoring Jane Steinman (see mzion.org for more information and to RSVP.)

Saturday, November 7:5:00 p.m.S’eudat shlishit (Third meal of Shabbat) picnic (bring your own vegetarian, nut-free dinner)

6:00 p.m.Havdalah service and Tot program (co-sponsored with PJ Library)Ellen leads us in a “PJ Havdalah Party” with songs, milk and cookies, and a bedtime story! If you like, wear your PJs and bring your special blankie, stuffed animal, or pillow!

Sunday, November 8:11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.Ellen leads an intergenerational tefillah (prayer service) with participation of Shir Tzion, Shir Chants, and YOU!

To learn more about Ellen or hear samples

of her music, go to:

ellenallard.com

A Weekend in Memory of Jane SteinmanWhen our beloved past Executive Director died five years ago, friends and family established a fund in her

memory. Jane’s family asked that the fund be used to bring the gift of music - specifically to engage our children - to our community. We are pleased to welcome Ellen Allard for this special Shabbat and weekend.

Award-winning recording artist, educator, and children’s performer

Ellen Allard

4 Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time 5

. Torah

Engaging TorahScholar-in-Residence with Michael Carasik, author of The Commentators’ Bible

Thursday-Shabbat, Oct 22-24, 2015

Thursday, Oct 22 (12-1:15 p.m.) - RASHI AND HIS FRIENDSWith the Rashi Study Group and Open to All

New Location: Fredrikson and Byron - 200 South Sixth Street - Suite 4000

In memory of William “Bill” Kampf on his 10th Yahrzeit; Founder of Rashi Study Group and Mount Zion Past-President

He’s famous, he’s fabulous, he’s French — and he is the greatest of all Jewish scholars of Bible and of Talmud, too.

He is R. Solomon Isaacs (1040-1105), who under the name of Rashi has been the ordinary Jew’s guide through

Torah and Talmud for the last 900 years. Along the way, we will meet his famous grandson, Rashbam; Rashbam’s

antagonist, Abraham ibn Ezra; and Nahmanides, who some say was responsible for uniting all four men on the pages of the Rabbinic

Bible. We will then look at the verse of the week from Genesis 25 with new insight.

LIFE AND TIMES OF THE COMMENTATORS’ BIBLEShabbat - Friday, Oct 23 (7:30 pm-During Shabbat Services) The first words of the Commentators’ Bible were written on September 11th, 2001.  You’ll learn about how the Commentators’ Bible

was created and designed and get a peek inside the process of creating the Genesis volume.  (And you’ll find out why that volume

comes last!) 

THE BIBLE’S MANY VOICESShabbat - Saturday, Oct 24, 1:00 p.m. Dr. Carasik will also lead the 9 am Torah Study on the weekly portion Lech LechaThe Bible in English, as most of us encounter it, all “sounds the same.” It was translated at more-or-less the same time by people of

similar backgrounds (and indeed sometimes by a single person). But the actual Bible is in Hebrew, not English, and it collects material

that was composed over a period of 1,000 years. This talk will introduce you to some of the many voices clamoring for their say in

the Bible, sometimes harmonizing and sometimes in discord. You will not look at the Bible the same way again after hearing it.

Michael Carasik, PhD, is the author/translator of The Commentators’ Bible: The Rubin JPS

Miqra’ot Gedolot. He teaches Biblical Hebrew at the University of Pe nnsylvania and is the weekday Torah reader at Historic Congregation Kesher Israel in Center City Philadelphia. He re-ceived his Ph.D. in Bible and the Ancient Near East from Brandeis University, and has taught atvarious universities. His weekly ‘’Torah Talk’’ podcast is available at mcarasik.wordpress.com.

. A v o d a h e W o r s h i p

Please join us for intergenerational worship and learning with our Artist-in-Residence, Ellen Allard

Song, Spirit, and CelebrationFriday-Sunday, November 6-8

Ellen Allard, multi-award winning recording artist, composer, performer,and educator, is one of the most popular and influential Jewish musiciansand educators on today’s vibrant contemporary Jewish music scene. Widelyrecognized for her appeal to audiences of all ages, Ellen’s songs have becomethe gold standard when it comes to engaging children and adults of all agesand helping them strengthen their Jewish identities. With a strong com-mitment to building community through music, Ellen has a unique, charis-matic, charming, and heartwarming way of inviting audiences to sing along,whether performing a concert, facilitating a student or teacher workshop, orleading a worship service.

Friday, November 6:6:30 p.m.Ellen joins with our clergy, Shir Tzion, and Shir Chants in a powerful, uplifting Shabbat experience for all ages.

8:00 p.m.Congregational Dinner honoring Jane Steinman (see mzion.org for more information and to RSVP.)

Saturday, November 7:5:00 p.m.S’eudat shlishit (Third meal of Shabbat) picnic (bring your own vegetarian, nut-free dinner)

6:00 p.m.Havdalah service and Tot program (co-sponsored with PJ Library)Ellen leads us in a “PJ Havdalah Party” with songs, milk and cookies, and a bedtime story! If you like, wear your PJs and bring your special blankie, stuffed animal, or pillow!

Sunday, November 8:11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.Ellen leads an intergenerational tefillah (prayer service) with participation of Shir Tzion, Shir Chants, and YOU!

To learn more about Ellen or hear samples

of her music, go to:

ellenallard.com

A Weekend in Memory of Jane SteinmanWhen our beloved past Executive Director died five years ago, friends and family established a fund in her

memory. Jane’s family asked that the fund be used to bring the gift of music - specifically to engage our children - to our community. We are pleased to welcome Ellen Allard for this special Shabbat and weekend.

Award-winning recording artist, educator, and children’s performer

Ellen Allard

Hineni: A Center for Adult Jewish Learning and Contemplative

Practices at the Talmud Torah of St. Paul

Hineni believes that engaging with Jewish teachingsand practices challenges the mind, inspires the imagination, touches the soul, enriching individuals,communities, and the world. Hineni offers many classes, deep learning, and spiritual direction. More details atttsp.org/hineni/our_program

Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time 36 Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time

. T o r a hLearn Hebrew This Year!Follow synagogue services, be more involved in your children’s Jewish education, or simply enhance your ownties to Judaism.

Tuition per class (includes all materials): $75 members/$100 non-members(Minimum 5 students for all classes).

Introduction to HebrewWeds., October 21 – January 13, 4:30 – 5:45 p.m. (ten classes)

4:30 – 5:45 p.m. Hebrew Reading Crash CourseInstructor: Siana GoodwinLearn the aleph-bet, Hebrew letter and sound recognition,basic words and phrases related to our liturgy.

6:00 – 7:15 p.m. Aleph Isn’t ToughInstructor: Kent SimonIntroduction to the aleph-bet, basic grammar and Hebrewroots. Acquire the tools to start decoding our Hebrew texts.

NEW THIS YEAR!Hebrew Reading Practice, Part 2For those familiar with the aleph-bet, we will be reading from theTanakh, learning to recognize word roots and constructions and increasing familiarity with Hebrew words, phrases, and rhythms.

Sundays, October 11 – January 10, 9:45-11:00a.m. (ten classes)

Instructor: Siana Goodwin

Introduction to Hebrew Part IIWednesdays, January 20 – March 30 (ten classes)

4:30 – 5:45 p.m. Hebrew Reading PracticeInstructor: Siana GoodwinSolidify your Hebrew skills with practice reading aloud from oursiddur. Includes some basic vocabulary and grammar.

6:00 – 7:15 p.m. Aleph Isn’t EnoughInstructor: Kent SimonExpand your knowledge of basic Hebrew with reading practicefor improved speed and pronunciation, more grammar, and vo-cabulary building.

To register for all classes, go to mzion.org.Note: If you are interested in learning basic Hebrew but these timesdon’t work for you, or if you have questions about our Hebrew offerings,please contact Siana Goodwin at sgoodwin2@comcast.net.

“The golden key to Jewish education isthe Hebrew Language.”

-- Hayyim Nahman Bialik, Things Known by Heart, 1935.

. Gemilut Chasadim e Acts of Loving Kindness & Just ice Food for Thought

Learn and Nosh before Shabbat Services5:45 - 6:15 p.m. Gathering and a Light Nosh

6:15 - 7:15 p.m. Food for Thought DiscussionsDiscussion over wine, juice, and light appetizers.

Child care available.

Third Friday of the Month October-April (except December)

October 9: When Judaism and Neuroscience Speak the Same LanguageDavid Alter, PhD

November 13:Building a Dementia Friendly CommunityBetsy Ellis and Chris Rosenthal

January 15:Tzedek – Timely Discussion(s) on the theme of Justice - MartinLuther King, Jr Weekend.

February 19, March 18, April 15

Who? Reform Jews committed to having Judaism inform their daily lives.Congregational officers, board members, committee chairs and adult learners areencouraged to participate.

What? 10 minutes a day of personal connection to a Jewish text, issueor topic. Each day has a separate theme:

Monday - Reform Voices of TorahTuesday - Celebrating Jewish Arts and Culture

Wednesday - Israel ConnectionsThursdays - Throwback Thursday

Friday - Weekly news updates

How? Each weekday morning (Monday-Friday) an e-mail will be de-livered to your inbox for you to study at your convenience.

Study that Matches Your Lifestyle - Sign up atwww.urj.org/learning/torah/ten.

. E - S t u d y

TORAH ON THE WEB:www.urj.org/torah - An excellent commentary on the Torah portion.www.urj.org/shabbat - The Reform Movement’s weekly commentarydesigned to inspire discussions at your Shabbat table.www.urj.org/learning/torah/ten - 10 Minutes of Torah - Receiveweekly emails of Torah commentary and reflections on current events(see below).www.urj.org/torah/ten/eilu/ A point/counterpoint model with dialogue between two scholars and provides for your active participation. www.myjewishlearning.com - Resource on everything from holidaysto mysticism.

Save the date:

Saturday, February 6, 2016St. Paul Jewish Community night of learning atTalmud Torah of St. Paul.

ENGAGE with top notch teachers in anevening of lively Jewish learning. Rabbis, university professors and lay leaders share theirpassions in a wide array of classes.

Symposium marking the 50th anniversary of the SecondVatican Council's Nostra Aetate: Declaration on the

Relationship of the Church to Non-Christian Religions

October 12 (afternoon sessions, evening banquet, and keynote address)October 13 (morning sessions)University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN

Speakers: Mary C. Boys, Catherine Cornille, Peter Feldmeier,Sandra Keating, Ruth Langer, Bradley Malkovsky, AnantanandRambachan, Mark Unno, and Homayra Ziad

As four religions other than Christianity - Hinduism, Buddhism,Islam, and Judaism - are mentioned (in that order) in Nostra Aetate,the symposium will have four sessions devoted respectively to Hindu-Christian relations, Buddhist-Christian relations, Muslim-Christianrelations, and Jewish-Christian relations. Each of these sessions willfeature two lectures - one by a Catholic scholar and one by a scholarfrom another religion - followed by a discussion. In addition to thethese four sessions, there will be a banquet and a keynote address onthe overall theme of the symposium.

For more details go to stthomas.edu/jpc.

Gaza, the IDF Code of Ethics,and the Morality of WarMoshe Halbertal, NYU Law School, Hebrew UniversitySunday, November. 1, 7:30 p.m. at Beth El Synagogue (5225 Barry St. W., St. Louis Park)

What moral and legal principles should guide an army in a complexconfrontation that involves a tragic loss of civilian life and other majorcollateral damage? What values has the Israel Defense Forces (IDF)committed itself to uphold in times of war? How do we arrive at anhonest account of what actually happened in Gaza, in light of com-peting moral considerations and the realities that Israel faced? In thewake of the Gaza war, what lessons can Israel learn,and how should Israel proceed?

Moshe Halbertal is the Gruss Professor at NYU Law School,a Professor of Jewish Thought and Philosophy at the HebrewUniversity, a Professor of Law at IDC and a member of Israel’sNational Academy for Sciences and the Humanities. Heserved as a visiting professor at Harvard Law School, Univer-sity of Pennsylvania Law School and Yale Law School, andwas a fellow at the Society of Fellows at Harvard University.

‘Sing Unto God’ Debbie Friedman and the Crucial Era in American Jewish Liturgical Changewith Judah M. Cohen, Indiana UniversityMonday, June 27, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. at Mount ZionSponsored by the University of Minnesota Center for Jewish Studies and Mount Zion

In this talk, we take a new look at the early career and music of composer/song leader Debbie Friedman (1951-2011). This presentationseeks to reassess Friedman as an artist and liturgist deeply engaged withnew approaches to prayer that actively embraced major shifts taking placein American Jewish life.

Judah M. Cohen is the Lou & Sybil Mervis Professor of Jewish Culture and Associate Professor of Musicology at Indiana University. His research and writingexplores Jewish cultural expression as a dynamic and everchanging process, createdand recreated over time by artists, religious leaders, philosophers, and activists.

Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time 72 Life Long Learning . One Step at a Time

. T o r a h

Shabbat-Open Torah StudyStudying the weekly Torah portions with our Rabbis.

9:00 - 10:00 a.m. (ongoing) at Mount Zion TempleThis weekly study group is open to regular attendees and those who are able to drop in onceor periodically -- people of all ages, knowledge and background. Through reading and discussion of the weekly parashah/Torah portion, participants will learn the stories of Torahand make them come alive in their own lives.

Torah MondaysRabbi Esther Adler

12:00-1:00 p.m. (ongoing)

at Mount Zion Temple

Take a lunch break from your busy life and join this

Torah discussion. We read through the text and com-

mentaries, and respond with our own experiences, ideas,

and events of the day to illuminate the intricate rela-

tionships that evolved among our ancestors. We are cur-

rently studying the weekly Haftarah portions.

Bring Your Lunch!

Thursday: Genesis with RashiRabbi Adam Stock Spilker12:00 - 1:00 p.m. (ongoing)220 S. 6th St., Suite 1800 Minneapolis (US Bank Building)Fill your spirit with food for the soul over lunch in a

downtown conference room. Study the book of Genesis

the way it has been studied for centuries, with the great

commentator Rashi as our guide. Come once or regularly

and enjoy the camaraderie of a chevruta, the Talmudic way

of learning with one’s friends and colleagues. Bring Your Lunch!

Torah at the Center...Every week, three times to study Torah.

Stop by anytime. No experience/background necessary.

. Gemilut Chasadim eActs of Loving Kindness & Just ice Israel Book Discussions

Meet in the Mount Zion LibraryJoin us for an engaging conversation about Israeli life through its liter-ature. Even if you cannot read the book in advance, you are welcome.Questions? Contact Charles at CSFodor@aol.com or Jonathan at jkeisenthal@comcast.net.

Between Friends by Amos OzMonday, September 21, 7 p.m.

"The mind is a place Oz explores master-fully in all its contradiction, texture andheartache. Between Friends paints the dailylives behind utopian dreams, fully realized.”-New York Daily News

Schedule for the YearNovember 2: Let it be Morning by Kashua SayedJanuary 4: The Garden of Ruth by Eva Etzioni-HalevyMarch 7: Closing the Sea by Yedudit KatzirMay 2: The Smile of the Lamb by David GrossmanJuly 11: The One Facing Us by Ronit MatalonSeptember 12: The Blue Mountain by Meir ShalevNovember 7: Returning Lost Loves by Yehoshua Kehaz

Great Expectations: A Program for Expecting ParentsSunday, March 6, 9:30 a.m - 10:30 a.m. (No Cost)

Cantor Jennifer Strauss-Klein

Great Expectations is an opportunity for expectant individuals andcouples to gather in an intimate setting for a Jewish perspectiveon pregnancy, birth, baby namings, briss and what it means to bea new parent. Participants will be able to share their concerns,questions and ideas as well as get advice about prayers to bring tothe hospital, Hebrew names and ways to connect to the synagogueand Judaism with their new families.

Beyond Brisket and Bagels: What Really Makes Food Jewish?

A Scholar-in-Residence Weekend - November 19-22

Tina Wassermanauthor of bestselling cookbooks, Entrée to Judaism: A Culinary

Exploration of the Jewish Diaspora and Entrée to Judaism for Families-Jewish Cooking and Kitchen Conversations with Children

Thursday, November 19, 6 p.m.Special, exclusive event at Brasserie Zentral Restaurant (Minneapolis) withChef Russell Klein (James Beard nominated owner of Zentral and Tina’snephew). A full, four-course dinner with wine pairings. Chef Klein and Tinawill relate stories about the dishes and share the Jewish history and connec-tions with the food. Look for invitation by mail for pricing and RSVP.

Friday, November 20, 7:30 p.m. During ServicesBeyond Brisket and Bagels: 1492 and its Impact on World Cuisine.After services, the Oneg will include desserts from her talk.

Saturday, November 211 p.m.: What makes food Jewish? The Stories Behind the Recipesand the Recipes Behind the Stories. Presentation and a hands-on activity!3 p.m. (For Teens): A Latke Cook-off.7 p.m.: Getting Reading for the Holidays; Delving into our TraditionA Hands-On Evening of Cooking, Eating, and Camaraderie. Look forinvitation by mail for pricing and RSVP.

Sunday, November 22 Making a Six Braid Challah and Learning its History For all Reli-gious School students and parents. (Part of Bread and Torah Program).

Climate Change and Social Justice: Actions at the IntersectionsMon., October 12, 7-9:15 p.m. at Pilgrim Lutheran Church (1935 St. Clair Ave, St Paul)

Mon., October 26 (tentative) at Masjid An Nur in Minneapolis

Stewardship is a common theme inmany religions and spiritual traditions.What does it really mean? Respect, relationship, compassion, tending, rightconduct, non-injury to the earth and it'screatures… As stewards and active community members we want to know:

What does our faith require of us?•What do just actions look like?•How are threats such as climate change and social justice •interconnected?

Explore these questions and discover new opportunities for "Actions atthe Intersections." Together we will learn more about Climate Changeand Social Justice as framed by the host congregation and will also hearabout on the ground opportunity to engage in Socially Just CommunitySolar initiatives.

For more details, including registration, go to mzion.org. Contact jmbhaan@comcast.net or Muhammad@mnipl.org with any questions.

Co-sponsored by MNIJP (Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light), SPIN (St. PaulInterfaith Network), Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, and Mount Zion Temple

How our Adult EducationProgram is Organized

Our adult education offerings are dividedinto three categories, corresponding to thethree core values of Mount Zion’s vision:

Life-long Learning t Sacred Texts t Hebrew

In this category, you will find courses, lectures, and discussions on Torah and othersacred Jewish literature. You will also findlessons at all levels in the Hebrew languagethrough which we are best able to access thesesacred texts.

Worship t Liturgy t SpiritualityHere you will find classes covering topics onreligion and spirituality, including liturgy,life-cycles, theology, holiday rituals, and Jew-ish music and chanting. Through these offerings, we enrich our spirituality and themeaning of our worship services.

Acts of Loving Kindness andJustice tSocial Action t

Community Issues tCulture & Israel

In this grouping, we have gathered a varietyof learning experiences from the treasure troveof Jewish culture, history, politics, and art,seeking ways to better connect to one another,to our spiritual home in Israel, and to theAmerican society in which we live.

MaZAL . Mount ZionAdultLearning5776 - 2015/2016

The MaZAL Program has been dedicated by Joan and Richard Newmark through a generous giftin memory of their parents, Rose and Sol Friedman & Anne and Nathan Newmark.

Inside this brochure are classes and one-time programs for all kinds oflearners. Browse and find something that sparks your curiosity.

More offerings are still being planned for the year.

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To register for any class, go towww.mzion.org or contact Julie

Beckman at jbeckman@mzion.orgAbout our name: MaZALMaZALThe word mazal, often pronounced with a Yiddish inflection, “mazel” as in “mazel tov,” comes from the Hebrew word which means “luck”. In truth, the word means“a group of stars’ or a “constellation.” Medieval Jews paid close attention to the “mazalot,” the constellations, and in fact, we find representation of the constellations through-out the ancient Jewish world. Jews have always found meaning in astrology, as it represented the vast possibilities of the world created by God. As countless are the starsin the night sky, so too, are the paths of Jewish study. As we partake in adult Jewish learning, we offer a few of those paths, leaving many more for tomorrow. It is ourMaZAL to learn. Come learn and enjoy!

ReformJudaism Beyond the Basics – What Do ^ Jews Believe?From Torah and Talmud to TodayWhat we believe, from our theology to our values, impacts what we do everyday. We began this series of classes two years ago focused on topics from tat-toos to cremation. This year we will continue to examine other questions ofpersonal choice and belief where Judaism may influence our decisions andviews. Regardless of your own choices, you will leave these classes better in-formed. All are welcome regardless of level of Jewish knowledge. Hebrewtexts will be used in part but will be fully translated. Talmudic texts will beused in each session along with Reform Jewish statements and responsa (rab-binic, scholarly answers to contemporary issues and questions). These classesare open to the public. Each session is a stand-alone class, but themes willemerge from attending all of them.

About Everything! Wed, Oct 28, 7:30-9pm Rabbi SpilkerCome study “A Statement of Principles for Reform Judaism (1999)”. This is thefourth such statement in over 100 years! Previous ones were in 1885, 1937, and1975. The headlines range from God to Torah to Israel. If you want the one-stop-session to learn what Reform Jews believe, this is the session for you.

Physician Assisted SuicideMon, Nov 16, 7-8:30 pm Rabbi SpilkerWhat is Physician Assisted Suicide? What are the Jewish ways of understandingend-of-life decision making and how to balance quality of life with the value of life?

Mon, Nov 30, 7-8:30 pmA doctor and lawyer meet a rabbi to discuss the practical decision making thatsome may face.

Dying, Death, and Mourning: A Practicum Before You Need ItMon, Feb 29, 7-8:30 pm Rabbi AdlerHow do I know if I’m doing the right thing? Jewish Views on Death andDying and Mourning

Mon, Mar 14, 7-8:30 pm The Funeral Home – A Visit to Hodroffs Funeral Home

Mon, Apr 4, 7-8:30 pm Preparing for Dying: Creating Your Health DirectiveA doctor, lawyer, and rabbi offer some practical and soulful advice.

. A v o d a h e W o r s h i p

A Taste of Honey:An Introduction to Judaism

Member: $36, Public: $75

Mondays, October 12 - December 287:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Rabbi Esther Adler

This course provides studentswith a basic understanding ofJewish practice and belief.Topics include Jewish history,life cycle, Shabbat, theology,home observance and more!If you are interested in learning more about Judaismand/or thinking about conversion. Completion ofthe Taste of Honey class is a requirement for conversion.

Our Bodies, Our Souls19th Annual Jewish Retreat for Women

In the Image:

Jewish Women and ArtFriday Evening to Saturday EveningSave the Date: January 22-23, 2016

Men’s RetreatSave the Date:

Friday-Sunday, May 13-15, 2016

Shabbat Shuvah - Mussar for ThoughtFriday, September 18

Shabbat for the Soul / Mussar for Thought - We willfollow this schedule: a reflective, meditative sessionabout Mussar before services and a more intimateShabbat service either in Johnson Social Hall or Mar-golis Hall on Fridays, October 30, December 18,March 18, and May 20

6:15 p.m. The Making of a Mensch13 minute film by the director of “the Tribe” Tiffany Shlain, followed by discussionled by Rabbi Spilker. The film is based on the teaching of Mussar.

7:30 p.m. Shabbat for the Soul in Johnson Social Hall

A Shabbat service with a different atmosphere, designed to touch our souls in newways. This service will be led by clergy, professional musicians, and members fromour Guitar Corps.

MUSSAR AT MOUNT ZION 2015-16 / 5776 Last year, 75 people participated in the year-long Mussar program. Many others said that they would sign up “next time!” We are pleased to say there is a next time. We have intro Mussar groups as well as classes for those who have already participated.

NEW TO MUSSAR? Seeking Everyday Holiness – This is the program we offered last year. Through group discussion, text study, personal journaling, and spiritual practices, group members will explore the traits of humility, truth, equanimity, honor, order, responsibility, patience, moderation, and trust. There will also be webinars with inspiring Mussar teachers.

When? Two options both at Mount Zion: 1. Monday evenings (7-9 pm) ten sessions facilitated by Cantor Jennifer Strauss-Klein

Oct 12, 26; Nov 9, 23; Dec 7, 21; Jan 11, 25; Feb 8, 22 2. Wednesday mornings (10-Noon) facilitated by Rabbi Esther Adler

Oct 7, 21; Nov 4, 18; Dec 2, 16; Jan 6, 20; Feb 3, 17

Cost? The fee per person – including a book, materials, and webinars for the year is based on The Mussar Institute’s charge for u se of their program materials. We are offering a sliding scale. Choose the fee that feels most comfortable for you: $54 (scholarship option) or $118 (our true costs) or $180 (sustainer option). Additional support is available from our clergy.

ALREADY HAVE BACKGROUND IN MUSSAR? If you have already taken “Seeking Everyday Holiness”, you can sign up for “Continuing Mussar” which will start with “Middah of the Month” in September and transition to “Season of Mussar II” in January. Continuing Mussar - The Mussar Institute provides rich materials for Mussar study for anyone who has completed one or more courses with The Mussar Institute or has a solid foundation in Torah learning. Continuing Mussar will meet every other week from Sept through March. We will study the middot of repentance, joy, compassion, generosity, patience, forgiveness, simplicity, lovingkindness, strength, and faith.

When? Two options both facilitated by Julie Dean: 1. Sunday afternoons (4-6 pm) – in Uptown, Minneapolis, ALREADY FULL

Sept 20; Oct 4, 18; Nov 1, 15, 29; Dec 13, 20; Jan 10, 24; Feb 7, 21; Mar 6, 20. 2. Monday evenings (7-9 pm) – held at Mount Zion

Sept 21; Oct 5, 19; Nov 2, 16, 30; Dec 14, 21; Jan 11, 25; Feb 8, 22; Mar 7, 21.

Cost? Like Seeking Everyday Holiness (see above) we are offering a sliding scale. Choose the fee that feels most comfortable for you: $72 (scholarship option) or $150 (our true costs) or $218 (sustainer option).

A TASTE OF MUSSAR FOR EVERYONE! We will be offering “Mussar for Thought” sessions before Shabbat services a few times this year. These hour-long teaching/discussions/experiences are not a substitute for a practice but can give insight into Mussar and provide application for your life. These sessions are open to all and no RSVP is required. The Shabbat service after these sessions will be in one of our social halls to create a different prayer space and a more intimate, meditative service.

Mussar for Thought: 6:15 pm | Shabbat for the Soul (Shabbat service); 7:30 pm

Fridays: September 18, October 30; December 18; March 18; May 20.

WHY MUSSAR? Do you ever wonder:

What really matters in life? How do I incorporate Jewish values into everyday life? Can I find more “real” relationships with peers? Is there a Jewish way to meditate?

Mussar offers a Jewish pathway into leading a more meaningful, spiritually fulfilled life. Mussar means “instruction.” It is a treasury of Jewish teachings and practices that have evolved over the past thousand years. It is a spiritual practice aimed at elevating one’s character and providing guidance for our life journey. At the center of the program is the inspiring material in Everyday Holiness, written by Alan Morinis. Working with this text, participants become exposed to the core teachings of the Mussar tradition and its relevance to everyday life. The Mussar Institute has partnered with the Reform Movement to teach Mussar in congregations. Mussar can work for people of any age, Jewish or not Jewish. Perhaps you?