Classes and Workshops
American Jewish History Classes
American Jewish History Classes
American Jewish History Classes
Classes on Jewish American History from Colonial times through the Civil War
Holidays and Shabbat Workshops
American Jewish History Classes
American Jewish History Classes
Hands-on workshops for Shabbat and holidays in which participants explore the inspiring rituals and meanings of each celebration
Impact of the Hebrew Bible on Early America
There are no Jewish immigrants in our first class, however, our Jewish text, the Hebrew Bible (the Old Testament), was the most read book of this time; it had a profound impact on the creation of the United States. In this class we will look at how the early Protestants and the Founding Fathers drew inspiration from the Hebrew Bible. Through the early colonists’ words and important American documents, we will discover how the Hebrew Bible’s teachings helped shape American ideals. It is important for us to understand the significance of our Bible to the founding of this nation.
Jews in Colonial America
This class tells the remarkable stories of the first Jews who came to colonial North America. We will briefly cover the brutal Inquisitions they fled in Spain and Portugal since the majority of the first newcomers were Sephardic Jews, escaping persecution in the hopes of finding opportunity for a better life. Most importantly this class will explore the brave Jewish individuals who stood up for their civil rights and led the way for future generations.
Jews in pre-Civil War Period
We will pick up from our last class and explore Jewish history during the period between the formation of the U.S. government and the American Civil War. Who were these brave people who continued to thrive during the infancy of the United States? We also explore the second wave of Jewish immigration, mainly from central Europe, to America, where poor Jewish immigrants learned to flourish in this new expanding country. The class will conclude by exploring Jews and slavery, and debunking anti-semitic falsehoods concerning the Jewish role in the slave trade.
Jews and the Civil War
We will now dive into the tumultuous Civil War period when most Jews were new immigrants who had just begun to settle into their new country. Having various reasons for joining the war, Jewish soldiers fought on both sides of the conflict. We explore the different experiences that Jewish soldiers encountered on the battlefield as well as highlight their heroic acts. We will also learn about the heightened anti-semitism that arose during this time when the Jewish population became the scapegoats for many of the ills of war.
Lincoln and the Jews
The purpose of this class is to illuminate Abraham Lincoln's effect on the Jewish population of the mid 1800s that still reverberates to this day. In the last decade, primary source documents were discovered—many never before published—regarding Abraham Lincoln and his relationship to American Jewry. Abraham Lincoln befriended Jews personally when he was a young attorney and once he was president his actions and words helped build a better America for Jews. We will discover Lincoln's unusually inclusive and caring character, which stood out during this time.
About
My Philosophy
Each class is designed to illuminate the beauty and wisdom of Judaism through its literature, history and celebrations. In Judaic Workshops, participants will explore how they can create meaningful moments by celebrating Jewish holidays and the weekly observance of Shabbat, bringing joy, tradition, and connectedness to themselves and their families. The goals of the history classes are also designed to enlighten participants on the profound messages found in Judaism and in the powerful stories of those who came before us.
Testimonials
"Judy Soffer is an uncommonly inspiring educator whose Judaic Workshops are the answer to engaging both synagogue members and the unaffiliated. By weaving together the texts, traditions and historical background of holidays, Ms. Soffer transforms the Jewish life of her participants. My congregants have referred to her workshops as significant experiences on their Jewish journeys."
Rabbi Paul Kipnes Congregation Or Ami, Calabasas, CA Co-author, Jewish Spiritual Parenting: Wisdom, Activities, Rituals and Prayers for Raising Children with Spiritual Balance and Emotional Wholeness
"Judy Soffer’s programs are engaging and meaningful. Her vibrant lessons are holiday simulations, and she teaches through sharing the experience of celebration and observance. Her programs are informative for beginners, with enough depth to please those looking to get beyond the basics. She presents practical methods to enhance Jewish life, making it possible for participants to immediately leverage the materials in their own observance." Rabbi Shawna Brynjegard-Bialik Temple Ahavat Shalom
Bio
Judy Soffer, a Jewish Educator for over 25 years, has developed and taught numerous Jewish educational programs for adults, children and families. She is the co-creator of the award-winning Mishpachah program at Congregation Or Ami in Calabasas, which brings parents and children together for religious school learning. Her curricular work can be found in Jewish educational institutions. She has a Master's degree in Jewish Education from the American Jewish University.