Kol Ami — The Northern Virginia Reconstructionist Community

Adult Learning

Engage in Dynamic Jewish Learning at Kol Ami

Kol Ami offers a diverse array of educational programs and social opportunities for adults. Whether you’re looking to explore Jewish history, engage in contemporary discussions, or connect with a welcoming learning community, there’s always something fascinating to discover!

Our Adult Learning programming is open to both members and non-members, making it easy to dive into Jewish learning at any level of experience.

Intro to Judaism / Conversion Class

Join Rabbi Gilah Langner and Mike Jawer for an engaging and thought-provoking Intro to Judaism / Conversion Class, designed for those who are considering conversion or those seeking to deepen their Jewish knowledge. The course will often a survey of Jewish traditions, teachings, and practices.

Throughout the year, we will explore topics such as Jewish holidays, prayer, the Torah, Jewish values, and much more. Each session provides a supportive and welcoming space to ask questions, share experiences, and connect with others on a similar journey.

Whether you are just starting out or looking to deepen your connection to Jewish life, this class will provide you with the tools and understanding to engage fully with Jewish tradition.

Class Dates: 18 Sundays, September 7, 2025 – May 31, 2026 

Time: 10:00 – 11:00 am 

Mostly online with some in-person meetings. 

Want to learn more? Register for the class today.

Lunchtime Learning with Rabbi Bruce Aft

Spend Mondays at lunch with Rabbi Bruce Aft and a lively group of folks from four congregations in Northern Virginia.

Fall session begins September 8th.

Drop in for engaging, thought-provoking discussions on contemporary Jewish topics, from the wisdom of our traditions to their relevance today. 

The group meets virtually on Mondays, 12:30–1:30 PM.

Register here to be added to the class list and be notified of upcoming classes.

Adult Talmud  Study Group

Step into the world of the Talmud — the ancient Jewish collection of law, philosophy, legends, and rabbinic debate. Guided by Jacob Kelter, our monthly sessions are welcoming, engaging, and open to everyone, whether you’re brand new to Jewish learning or have studied for years.

Winter/Spring 2026 schedule TBD.

For Zoom link and class access, please contact us.

Upcoming Adult Learning Programs

Fall Gatherings
Monthly, October–December 2025

This fall, Kol Ami invites you to join us for a monthly series of adult education sessions. We’ll explore a variety of engaging topics, with something for everyone.

Stay tuned for more details and upcoming session themes!

Winter Reflections: End of Life Issues
January–March 2026

Join Rabbi Gilah for a three-part series exploring both the practical and spiritual aspects of end-of-life planning. In partnership with Alison Butler, an end-of-life doula and Kol Ami member, this series will cover a wide range of topics, including advance directives, funeral arrangements, burial vs. cremation, and ethical wills.

We’ll also explore Jewish views on the afterlife and how these teachings guide us through difficult decisions.

Stay tuned for more details and specific dates.

Spring Renewal: Counting the Omer – A Poetry Sharing Group
April–May 2026

As we count the Omer during the seven weeks between Passover and Shavuot, we invite you to join us in exploring the power of poetry. Together, we’ll share poems we love, poems we’ve written, and poems that spark our curiosity. This is an open space to reflect, connect, and celebrate the beauty of words as we move through this special season. 

Stay tuned for more details.

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