Adult Study

“Do not say, ‘I will learn when I have leisure’; you may never have it.” – Pirke Avot 2:5

Temple Beth Sholom offers a wide array of engaging and exciting adult education. There’s always something to learn about at TBS!

Our Sources

Tuesday Buchers
(Buchers, Definition, from French: to hit the books)

A small group of congregants and Rabbi Davis meet weekly to study Jewish texts. Each member of the group takes a turn leading a session. Then the other members, who have also read and researched the portion, make comments. Finally, the Rabbi discusses some aspect of the Hebrew or answers questions that have been raised. No Hebrew is necessary. Please contact Rabbi Davis at rdavis@tbsmb.org to discuss participation.

Zoom only | Tuesdays 12:00–1:00 pm

Rosh Chodesh

Celebrate the new moon and welcome the energy of the month ahead in a warm, spiritually grounded space. Join Rabbi Jacobs and new friends for meaningful learning, reflection, and connection. Open to all women & nonbinary folks.

7:00-8:30 pm, Tuesday, May 19

In Person | Registration: Noemi, noemi@tbsmb.org

The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic: Rereading the Women of the Talmud

Join Rabbi Glickstein as we explore The Women of the Talmud, a provocative and eye-opening work by Gila Fine, lecturer at the Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies. In this class, we will delve into six remarkable women from the Talmud as reinterpreted by Fine, uncovering profound insights not only about these female figures, but also about the rabbis who shaped their stories—and about ourselves. Along the way, we will encounter classic folk tales, stereotypes, and myths about women, including the Prima Donna, the Femme Fatale, and the Madonna/Whore. Shabbat following lunch ~ 12:15 pm, April 18.

In-Person and Zoom | Registration: Noemi,
noemi@tbsmb.org

Your Third Place

We all need a “third place”—a welcoming space outside of home, school, or work—where we can connect, belong, and recharge. Rabbi Loiben will lead this two-session exploration of why these places matter for our well-being and how the Jewish value “Al tifrosh min ha-tzibur” (“Don’t separate yourself from the community”) reminds us to stay connected. Through Jewish texts, excerpts from books, podcasts, and lively discussion, discover how finding your third place can enrich your life with deeper meaning and connection.

Shabbat afternoon, immediately following lunch ~ 12:15 pm, April 4, 11. 

In Person | Registration: Noemi, noemi@tbsmb.org

Basic Judaism and Parenting

What Do I Say When My Kids Ask? (continuing the conversation)
Questions like “Why do bad things happen?” or “What if I’m not sure I believe in God?” or “Am I my brother/sister’s keeper?”  Join Rabbi Gayle Pomerantz in discussing the podcast Answers WithHeld with Rabbi Shai Held (available on Apple podcasts). We will sift through parenting’s stickiest questions with the understanding that there may be no answer better than listening and love. Grandparents and other seekers are also welcome.

Wednesday mornings, 9:00 am, April 22
In-Person only | Registration: Noemi, noemi@tbsmb.org

Practical Judaism Workshop Series – Three Sessions (see below)

Community Adult Education and The Melton
School of Adult Jewish Learning

Temple Beth Sholom partners with CAJE (The Center for the Advancement of Jewish Education) and The Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning. Melton seeks to inspire, enlighten, and challenge adult learners from all segments of the Jewish community to study Judaism seriously. There is an extraordinary list of community classes being offered this year. A complete listing of opportunities is available at
caje-miami.org/adults or 305.576.4030.

Conversion: Choosing Judaism

A 16-week class for adults seeking to convert to Judaism or to renew their childhood education. Topics include Hebrew, holidays, rituals, prayer, philosophy, and theology. Taste the basics of Jewish life: spirituality, ethics, and community. This is a wonderful course for those new to the congregation, new to Jewish life, or interested in exploring the richness of our tradition.

Contact any of the Clergy for more information, noemi@tbsmb.org

Parent Education at the Innovative School

At the Innovative School of Temple Beth Sholom, we are committed to supporting families through ongoing parent education. This year, we will be offering engaging opportunities for parents to connect, learn, and grow in community together. These offerings may include workshops on parenting, education, and early childhood development, as well as book discussions and events designed to support families on their journey of raising the next generation of change makers. Please stay tuned for updates in our weekly digital newsletter, The Golden Suns. For more information, feel free to contact the main school office at 305.532.4756.

Torah Commentary, Podcasts, Calendar, Translations

The Union for Reform Judaism has a selection of weekly podcasts and e-mails that you can subscribe to and study at your convenience. Selections include: This Week in Jewish Life, Reform Voices of Torah, The Jewish Dish, Jewish Holiday Guide, and Jewish Life in Your Family Life.

Go to: reformjudaism.org/learning/torah-study

ReformJudaism.org

The Reform Jewish website is a wonderful resource for expanding your knowledge base, seeking wisdom, and learning about the issues and opportunities that we face as modern Jews. Major sections include Jewish Holidays, Jewish Life, Practice, Learning, Social Justice, and Israel.

Go to: reformjudaism.org  

We Are Not Alone:
Reform Jewish Courses Online

The Union for Reform Judaism offers a variety of virtual classes. Topics include: Introduction to Judaism; Reading Hebrew Prayers; Learn to Read Hebrew for Adults; Pursuing Justice; Introduction to the Mikveh Ritual.

Information and Registration:
reformjudaism.org/learning/judaism-classes 

Individual Study

Rabbi Davis is available to help you design your own study of Jewish text, philosophy, or theology.

Contact: Rabbi Davis, rdavis@tbsmb.org

Enjoyment and Learning

Panim el Panim: Face to Face

Looking to have thoughtful conversations and make meaningful connections? Join a Panim group. Groups offer intimate settings where members can engage in meaningful conversations and make deeper connections. Members are organized by shared demographics or a special interest. The monthly meetings take place in person, are hosted by a member, and are facilitated by a trained member. Existing groups include opportunities for men, women, singles, and parents. We have study groups, discussion groups, and special interest groups. New groups being developed for the Fall include groups for New Families, an Activities group, and a Book Club. Reach out and help us find you your Panim home today. 

Contact: Panim Coordinator, Jaleh Samway Bast,
Jaleh@tbsmb.org, 786.522.4510

Let Me Give a Sermon

This is an open workshop for those who wish to create and write a Devar Torah (sermonette). The Rabbis and Sages have methods for teaching the wisdom that flows from our rich texts. A Devar Torah is often given at meetings, study sessions, and services. Participants will meet with Rabbi Davis and will create a Devar Torah for our regular Shabbat morning service.

Information: Rabbi Davis, rdavis@tbsmb.org

Miami Jewish Film Festival

The festival will celebrate its 29th season from January 15 to 29, 2026. Please join TBS and the community-at-large for this world-class offering of Jewish-themed films. Screenings will be held at various venues around Miami, INCLUDING Temple Beth Sholom.

Contact: Mark Baranek at mark@tbsmb.org for more information

BOOK DISCUSSIONS
Mark Baranek and guests will lead discussions on a variety of Jewish-themed books. Both fiction and non-fiction will be featured.  

Autocorrect by Etgar Keret, Tuesday, March 24, 7:00 pm
A Place to Hide by Ronald H. Basson, Monday, May 11, 7:00 pm

Zoom only | Registration and the Zoom link: Mark Baranek, mark@tbsmb.org  

Prayer and Spirituality

Shabbat Evening Services

Our Shabbat evening service will embrace you and touch your soul. Fresh and familiar music will enable you to give voice to your own spirit. Special occasions in the lives of our congregants, Jewish teachings, sermons from our rabbis, and extraordinary music will enhance “Shabbat, our sanctuary in time.” 

Every Friday Evening, 6:00 pm

In-Person at TBS and tbsmb.org/watch

Shabbat Morning Services

Join us weekly to renew your spirit in our beautiful sanctuary or chapel. Our clergy and congregation members help to lead the prayers and read the Torah. Services are usually followed by a tasty communal Shabbat Kiddush Lunch.

Every Saturday Morning, 10:30 am

In-Person at TBS and tbsmb.org/watch

Torah Study on Shabbat Morning

Start Saturday morning with Torah study. Each Shabbat morning before our Shabbat Morning Service (which starts at 10:30 am), we study Parashat HaShavua, the weekly Torah portion. The Rabbis lead a discussion of ancient commentaries and teachings and reveal the Torah’s modern and relevant lessons. No registration necessary. To be added to the mailing list and receive the weekly study materials for this class contact: Noemi, noemi@tbsmb.org

Every Saturday morning, 9:30–10:30 am

In-Person and Zoom | tbsmb.org/calendar for the Zoom Link

Israel

Weekly Israeli Update

Join Mark Baranek each week for a concise update on the current events in Israel. Politics, Culture, and Technology are just a few of the areas covered. 

Mondays, 4:00 pm

Zoom only | Information and the Zoom link: Mark Baranek, mark@tbsmb.org

Israel on the Net  
 
There are many sites to learn about Israel on the Internet. We encourage you to surf and explore. Mark Baranek is available to you to help you discover the latest information and news about Israel. Please contact Mark for more information or additional resources, mark@tbsmb.org. Here are just a few:  
•  timesofisrael.com   
•  jnf.org/visit-israel/jnf-virtual-tours-to-israel  
•  myjewishlearning.com/article/contemporary-israel-101   

1976: 50 Years Since Entebbe

Join us as we discuss the historical events of 50 years ago, surrounding the Hijack and rescue of Air France Flight 139, enroute from Israel to France with a stop in Athens.

Monday, March 16, 7:00 pm
Zoom only | Information and the Zoom link: Mark Baranek, mark@tbsmb.org

Social Justice

Social Justice Network Justice Jams

We’d like to invite you to host Justice Jams this year! Justice Jams are small, intimate educational gatherings meant to foster dialogue and build community around specific issues of concern. Justice Jams are led by SJN co-chairs Rachel Unger and Andrea Wagner, along with special guests, in your home. This year our Jams will be focused on topics of reproductive justice in the fall and climate justice in the spring. Invite other congregants or friends and family to your home to learn about these issues and how we can take action. You provide the place, and we provide the content.

For more information or to host a Justice Jam: Rachel Unger, ungerita@yahoo.com or Andrea Wagner,  wags3671@gmail.com.

Mitzvah Day and Soup Contest

Join us for Mitzvah Day, our largest day of social action, with over 30 projects both at Temple Beth Sholom and around our community. We have projects for all ages and interests. You can engage in a beach clean-up, prepare care packets for mothers of premature babies, make gifts for Holocaust survivors, distribute food to people experiencing food insecurity, help raise money for Israel, create thank you gifts for our first responders, distribute books to adults and children in need, and much, much more. If you have an idea for a project that you would like to captain, please let us know. After completing the Mitzvah Day projects, we return for our annual Soup Contest, where we raise money for worthy causes in our community. To get involved, contact co-chairs Ashley Weissman, albeckwith@gmail.com and Caryn Pardo,
carynpardo@gmail.com, or Social Justice Program Director, Jeff Agron, jagron@tbsmb.org.

Yearly, in February

Registration opens in late December.

PACT (People Acting for Community Together)

Temple Beth Sholom is part of PACT (People Acting for Community Together). PACT unites, organizes, and trains leaders from diverse congregations, schools, and community groups to build a powerful community voice. Individually and collectively, we empower ourselves, hold officials accountable, achieve systemic change, and promote fairness, justice, and democracy in Miami-Dade County. This past year we helped persuade our elected officials to take action to reduce rental rates and institute a civil citation program for unpaid fines and fees. These are issues that are important to our community and make a difference in the lives of residents.

For information: TBS PACT Chairperson, Jonathan Sepsenwol, jonathan.sepsenwol@gmail.com; Rabbi Jacobs, rabbijacobs@tbsmb.org; or Jeff Agron,
jagron@tbsmb.org.

Food for Thought

A Multi-Access Cup of Coffee with Rabbi Davis

Rabbi Davis will meet you in the Ulam HaShalom (The Welcome Center) or on Zoom to share a cup of coffee with you. This is an informal opportunity to meet and share life’s journey together or for those wishing to seek pastoral guidance.

In-Person or Zoom: Rabbi Davis, rdavis@tbsmb.org

Coffee Around Town

Join with your Clergy and other Temple Beth Sholom Staff for coffee and conversation at various locations: South Beach, Sunset Harbor, and Bal Harbor. Check your e-mail, the website, and HaKOL for complete details. In-person at a coffee shop near you.

More information, Mark Baranek, mark@tbsmb.org