Rocky Mountain Rabbis & Cantors
About Introduction to Judaism (ITJ)
.png/:/cr=t:5.53%25,l:0%25,w:100%25,h:88.93%25/rs=w:1209,h:605,cg:true)
The Program
At Intro to Judaism, we believe that all religions have the potential to lead to a deeper understanding of Judaism and our people. We honor and respect all paths towards learning, and strive to create a community that is inclusive and welcoming to all. Whether you're considering conversion, Jew-ISH, Jew-curious, looking to affirm your Judaism or simply have the yearn to learn - you are welcome.
Introduction to Judaism is offered three times a year with cohorts beginning in January, May, and August. Classes meet weekly on Wednesdays evenings with occasional holiday breaks. Please inquire about our schedule for in person and virtual options.
The 25-week series is taught by rabbis and cantors of the Renewal, Reform, Conservative and Orthodox movements enabling you to learn from the many voices of Judaism. Course completion is one of the requirements for the conversion process. Students must engage with the 25 core topics and meet regularly with their sponsors to complete the course.
The cost of the course is $550, payable online. Tuition must be paid in full before you are placed in a cohort. During the series, students must attend services when possible and read selections from our course notebook, "On One Foot."
Our program is in partnership with the American Jewish University's Miller Introduction to Judaism affiliate program. We receive support from JEWISHColorado and the National Center to Encourage Judaism. We also rely on community support; if you'd like to support our program please CLICK HERE to give the gift of learning.
.png/:/cr=t:5.53%25,l:0%25,w:100%25,h:88.93%25/rs=w:1209,h:605,cg:true)
Clergy Sponsorship
Students must have a sponsor who is a member of the Rocky Mountain Rabbis & Cantors or Boulder Haver if they are considering an affirmation or conversion. Students will meet with their sponsors at least six times during the ITJ course, with additional meetings for those who plan to convert to Judaism. Our rabbis and cantors will guide and mentor students to ensure they get the most from the classes.
Students are encouraged to seek out a clergy sponsor, either from the congregation where you attend services or from another Jewish organization with whom you are comfortable engaging in discussions about the topics covered in class. Please let us know during your initial phone consultation if you have difficulty finding a sponsor.
.png/:/cr=t:5.53%25,l:0%25,w:100%25,h:88.93%25/rs=w:1209,h:605,cg:true)
Outside of class
During the program, students are strongly encouraged to:
- Attend Shabbat services and dinners.
- Read selections from assigned books and suggested reading lists.
- Attend special holiday events and workshops.
- Explore Kosher dietary laws and customs.
- Learn about different Jewish movements and various cultures.