Congregation Beth Israel in Scotch Plains will sponsor an adult education program, “A Little Lite Learning for Hanukkah,” on Saturday evening, December 3, from 7 – 10 p.m.  Participants will be able to choose two classes from an offering of six different courses, followed by a wine, cheese and dessert reception.  The evening is open to the community, with free babysitting available.

The 45-minute classes, taught by instructors from Congregation Beth Israel and the larger Jewish community, fall into three general categories: academic, cultural and parenting.  Rabbi George Nudell of Congregation Beth Israel will teach a class on the Book of Judith, and Rabbi Mendy Herson, Executive Director, Chabad Jewish Center of Basking Ridge, will teach about Kabbalah.  Cantor Matthew Axelrod of Congregation Beth Israel will teach a class on the music of Hanukkah, and Elyse Litt will lead instruction in Israeli Dance.  Rabbi Esther Reed, Senior Associate Director, Rutgers Hillel, will discuss the factors Jewish students should consider when selecting colleges, and Meryl Nadell, MSW and member of Congregation Beth Israel, will give advice on raising children to feel good about being Jewish.

 “We designed the program to appeal to a wide variety of interests within the community,” said Gary Goldner, Adult Education Chair, Congregation Beth Israel.  “By offering diversity in the classes and social time at the end, we think we’ve put together a meaningful and enjoyable evening in preparation for Hanukkah.”

The program costs $18 per person by reservation and $20 at the door.  To register, or for more information, contact Congregation Beth Israel at (908) 889-1830.  Congregation Beth Israel is located at 18 Shalom Way (at the corner of Martine Avenue) in Scotch Plains.