Classes help prepare for High Holidays

The Conejo Jewish Academy is offering a series of classes in anticipation of the upcoming Jewish holidays. The pre-holiday semester will help participants understand the meaning and traditions of the holidays and will help them prepare spiritually for the special observances. All of these holiday workshops are free and open to the public.

"Days of Awe; Days of Joy" is a three-part series that will explore the deeper meaning and the Kabbalistic themes of each holiday. The Jewish holidays to be covered include Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year), Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), Sukkot (Holiday of Booths) and Simchat Torah (Holiday of Joy). All four holidays fall in the Hebrew month of Tishrei. The workshops began on Tues., Sept. 5 and will meet Tues., Sept. 12 and 19, at 8 p.m., with Rabbi Yisroel Levine. There is no fee for the course.

"The Liturgy of the High Holidays" is a three-part series that studies the meaning of the prayers of the Machzor (high holiday prayer book). The course will study the meaning, the authors, the melodies and the concentration one is to have when reciting the prayers. The course will be instructed by Rabbi Aaron Shaffier on three consecutive Tuesday evenings, starting Sept. 5th at 8 p.m. There is no fee for the course.

"Lunch 'n' Learn with Rabbi Bryski" studies the Jewish Code of Ethics. The class meets on Wednesday afternoons at 12:30

p.m. and is followed by a buffet lunch. Classes started on Sept. 6 and are free and open to the public.

"Finding Joy in Your Life" is a women's study group that meets on Fridays at noon at a private home in Agoura Hills. It will begin on Friday, Sept. 8 with Rabbi Moshe Bryski and is free and open to all women. Please call (818) 991-0991 for directions.

"GOT HONEY?-A High Holiday Workshop for Women" is geared for women from all backgrounds and affiliations. This prehigh holiday seminar and workshop will feature lectures, handson crafts, baking and recipes for the holidays. It will meet on Sun., September 10, 10:30 a.m. at Chabad of Oak Park, 5998 Conifer St. There is no fee but reservations are necessary. Call (818) 991-0991 to reserve a spot.

"Similar to a visit to the market where we procure all sorts of merchandise, the month of Tishrei enriches us with an abundance of experiences, so that we may draw sustenance from it all year long," said Rabbi Menachem Schneerson. "We just need to unpack the merchandise and put it to use."

For further information or to register for any of the above courses, please call (818) 991-0991. All courses, unless otherwise indicated, will take place at the Conejo Jewish Academy, 30345 Canwood St., Agoura Hills.