BluePrint:

Building a Jewish Life

Whether you are exploring Judaism, considering conversion, or want to reconnect with your roots – come learn with us! BluePrint is a choose-your-own-adventure learning program for those who want to explore Judaism in an approachable and accessible way, open to all adult learners with a special track for those considering conversion. This course is led by Rabbi Steven Philp with guest appearances by Rabbi Lizzi Heydemann, and other movers and shakers in the Chicago Jewish scene.

The purpose of this course is to equip students with a foundational knowledge of Judaism to unlock further exploration – whether you’re studying to convert, are reconnecting with your roots, or looking to bring Judaism into your multi-faith home. We’ll dive into foundational Jewish texts, explore beliefs and practices, experience the rhythms of the Jewish calendar, and reflect on what it means to live Jewishly in the 21st century.

Our next course will meet in-person beginning in October and will meet on alternating Mondays from 6:30 – 8:30 pm CT. 

Interested in joining our next cohort? Contact Rabbi Steven to learn more.

Register
Topics Covered In BluePrint
  • Jewish History
    • From Biblical to Rabbinic Judaism
    • Middle Ages: Halakhah and Kabbalah
    • Emancipation and the Emergence of Modern Judaism
    • Contemporary Judaism, Diversity, and Change
  • Spirituality and Prayer
    • The Jewish Week and Shabbat
    • The Jewish Calendar (and the Shalosh Regalim)
    • God, Theology, and the High Holidays
    • Prayer and the Rabbinic Holidays
  • Lifecycles
    • B’Tzelem Elohim: Created in the Divine Image
    • Birth to B-Mitzvah
    • Love, Marriage, and Divorce
    • Dying, Death, and Mourning
  • Ethics and Contemporary Jewish Issues
    • Kashrut, Eating, and Ethical Consumption
    • Social Justice and Tikkun Olam
    • Antisemitism, Privilege, and Power
    • Zionism(s): Israel and Palestine
Considering Conversion?
Thinking about becoming a Jew? Blueprint includes our Considering Conversion track, a space for you to explore Judaism in a welcoming, supportive, cohort-based experience. In addition to the classes above, students will:
  • Meet 1:1 with our rabbis to talk about the conversion process
  • Engage in extracurriculars outside of the classroom to help you explore your Jewish identity and practice
  • Be paired with a mentor, someone who has already gone through the conversion process, to support you on your journey
  • Participate in additional learning opportunities, like our annual Passover Learner’s Seder
  • Complete the ritual requirements of conversion