Discovering Judaism
About The Course: An Introduction to Judaism
The course is broken up into two semesters. Semester A runs from September to December and Semester B runs from January to May. Discovering Judaism includes both semesters, but you can begin with either Semester A or Semester B. For those seeking to convert to Judaism, completion of both semesters of Discovering Judaism is a required step.
In our Discovering Judaism program, you will find a warm and accessible environment open to all. Everyone is welcome – interfaith couples, people raising Jewish children, spiritual seekers, individuals considering conversion, and anyone curious about Judaism. We embrace adults of all abilities, races, sexual orientations, and gender identities. Throughout each semester, we spend time building community where lively discussion is encouraged among all the students in class.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a member of Congregation Rodeph Sholom to sign up for Discovering Judaism?
No. Your tuition fee will include membership benefits while you are enrolled in Discovering Judaism – we welcome all who are seeking a place to learn more about Judaism and Jewish community.
Is Discovering Judaism only for those interested in conversion?
No. Discovering Judaism is the place for anyone looking to learn more about Judaism. Some of our students enter the class knowing that conversion is the path for them, others know that conversion is not for them, and still some enter wondering where this journey will take them.
Jewish partners of those signed up for Discovering Judaism are strongly encouraged to take this course with their partner.
If I sign up for this class, am I committing to convert to Judaism?
No. There is absolutely no expectation that you will convert to Judaism. If you sign up with the intention of converting and later decide that this is not right for you, you are still welcome to finish the course. Anyone contemplating conversion will be paired with a clergy mentor; your meetings with your mentor will help you discern the right path for you.
How long does conversion take?
The timeline of conversion is different for every person. You and your clergy mentor will discuss your ideal timeline during your one-on-ones. We typically recommend that someone spend an entire calendar year experiencing all of the Jewish holidays and exploring Judaism before coming to the beit din (rabbinic court of three learned Jews).
Where and when does this class meet?
See the schedule of sessions below. We meet on Wednesday evenings, 7:00-8:30pm, at Congregation Rodeph Sholom (7 West 83rd Street). See below for dates.
We are asking that all students commit to participating in person as much as possible. Our Discovering Judaism experience focuses heavily on building a community of learners and we find that this is most successful when participants are in person together.
Do you offer financial aid?
Yes. Our board, clergy, staff, and leadership are adamant that membership at CRS is accessible to everyone regardless of financial circumstances. Please speak to Rabbi Goldberg about tuition assistance.
Course Details
Course Schedule And Fee
The next session of Discovering Judaism begins with Semester A on September 11, 2024. The class meets in person on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 to 8:30 pm at Congregation Rodeph Sholom, 7 West 83rd Street, on the following dates:
Semester A (2025)
September 3, 10, 17
October 8, 15, 22, 29
November 5, 12, 19
December 3, 10, 17
Semester B (2026)
January 21, 28
February 4, 25
March 4, 11, 18, 25
April 15, 22, 29
May 6, 13
Registration for Semester A opens in July 2025. Registration for Semester B will open in November 2025.
Please contact Rabbi Goldberg to learn more.
Tuition for Discovering Judaism is $720. This includes all class materials, course time with clergy, two Shabbat dinners, and any class outings. Additionally, students have access to CRS member benefits while enrolled in the course.
Shabbat Dinner
Each semester, we gather as a class to attend Shabbat services and eat Shabbat dinner together; our cohort Shabbat dinners this year are on Friday, December 5, 2005 and Friday, March 6, 2026.
Discovering Judaism Havdalah (for current and past students) is on Saturday, April 18.
Zoom Policy
The Zoom link for class will only be available to those who are experiencing long-term medical issues. We do not want to exclude anyone from participating in class, but we know from experience that the best learning and community building happens when we all sit around the table together. We recognize that this means that people may miss a class here or there when sick or traveling. We will always post the slides and additional resources in a shared GoogleDrive that students have access to. We also hope that students will build connections with each other and can reach out to catch up on missed sessions.
Withdrawal Policy
Withdrawal prior to first class: Full Refund
Withdrawal after the second class: Full Refund less a $25 withdrawal fee
Withdrawal after the third class: No Refund
Hebrew
Hebrew is an incredibly important part of Jewish history, identity, and peoplehood. At CRS, we offer an online, 8-week introductory Hebrew course. No prior knowledge is required. At the end of the 8-week online course, you will be able to decode and read Hebrew words. We typically offer this course, Hebrew 101, at least twice a year.
Discovering Judaism students have access to our Hebrew 101 at a reduced rate ($108) while you are a student. Visit this page to learn more about our upcoming Hebrew class offerings. Scholarships are available for conversion students. Once you have completed the Discovering Judaism course, you are always welcome to join our Hebrew classes as a member or non-member.
Learning Hebrew is not a requirement for conversion—AND, our intro class is a really great introduction to learning how to read Hebrew, which can be an important part of feeling comfortable with Jewish prayer. Rabbi Goldberg is happy to speak with students individually about learning Hebrew.
Conversion to Judaism
Meet with our clergy, learn about Judaism, and reflect. Learn about the process ›
