The first session will focus on the question of Jewish identity. Are Jews a race, a nation, a religion?

What is the Hebrew Bible? How the late biblical and the classic rabbinic periods transformed Jews and Judaism.

What is meant by Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jewry? Triumphs and tragedies in Jewish history through the Middle Ages and into the early modern period.

How are the Jews organized in America? The role of the Jewish Federation and the agencies of American Jewish life. Guest teacher: Prof. Miriam Cohen, Vassar College.

A survey of the roots of Nazism in the rise of modern anti-Semitism. Is the Holocaust different from other tragedies in Jewish life? What are the lessons of the Holocaust. Guest teacher: Daniel Chejfec, Director of the Jewish Federation of Dutchess County.

How the calendar works. The cycle of holidays, with particular emphasis on the Shabbat. Guest Teacher: Doi Cohen, Vassar Temple

A guide map to the sanctuary and the prayer book. Guest teacher: Ron Rosen, Vassar Temple

Insights into the rituals of the Brit, Pidyon haBen, Marriage, and Death and Mourning. Guest teacher: Dr. Linda Tafapolsky, Director of Jewish Family Service of Dutchess County.

The origins of the Zionist movement, and how it succeeded in the recreation of the Jewish state of Israel. A brief look at Israel today. Guest teacher: Daniel Chejfec

An overview of the everyday practices of Jews, including kashrut (dietary habits). Guest Teacher: Melissa Erlebacher, Vassar Temple.

The Orthodox, Conservative, Reconstructionist and Reform movements. A brief explanation of why they all exist, how they differ and how they are alike.