Center for Exploring Judaism

The Center for Exploring Judaism (CEJ) was started at Central Synagogue in 2010. It is a place where anyone wishing to explore Jewish life is welcome. Couples and singles alike are invited to learn with us, receive guidance and counseling, and join our community. We are grateful for the chance to welcome newcomers to Judaism in any capacity.

This video tells our story, and highlights a few experiences of CEJ participants.

Exploring Judaism Course

Taught by Rabbi Lisa Rubin, Rabbi April Davis, and other Clergy, Central’s semester-long course gives students a foundation in the basic tenets of Judaism. Areas such as history, holidays, life cycle events, theology, prayer, and communal life will all be explored through foundational Jewish texts, beliefs, and customs.

The course is open to those who are not Jewish. Jewish partners of students are welcomed and encouraged to attend classes together. For students exploring the possibility of converting to Judaism, the course also serves as the first prerequisite step to conversion at Central Synagogue. Students exploring conversion will also meet regularly with Clergy for individual mentorship meetings.

Those interested should contact .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) for a preliminary meeting and registration. The course will close when class is full. A CEJ course begins every other month and runs for 6 months. For additional questions or info please contact Chelsea Werde.

Now Accepting Registration...

We are now taking registration for the July 2022 course, which will meet exclusively online. The July cohort will meet on Wednesdays, from 6:30–8:00 pm, and runs from July 6, 2022–December 14, 2022. Please register below.

The course tuition is $850 (partners attend free). No one will be turned away for financial reasons. If you have concerns about payment, please contact Chelsea Werde.

Conversion Studies at Central Synagogue

Since every individual is unique, their journey of conversion is equally so. Central is here for each step of this deeply personal decision—academic, pastoral, and communal—and to enthusiastically welcome you into our community.

Learn more about conversion at Central and read our conversion FAQ here.