Join us for a special class taught by  Rabbi Rena Blumenthal. Following a brief historic overview of the early Hasidic movement, we will engage in a slow, contemplative reading of texts by the Hasidic masters that focus on themes of prayer and teshuvah. The goal of the class is not only to introduce this genre of texts, but also to utilize them to prepare our hearts and minds for the High Holidays. This is primarily a discussion-based class. No prior familiarity with Hasidic texts is assumed. Members of Shaarei Shamayim pay the member rate; all others pay the non-member rate.

Rena Blumenthal worked as a psychologist for fifteen years prior to attending rabbinical school. After ordination, she worked eleven years at Vassar College as Assistant Director of Religious & Spiritual Life and Advisor to Jewish Students. She is now a freelance rabbi – teaching, leading services, officiating at lifecycle events, and providing consultation services to college campuses. She is also the author of a novel, The Book of Israela.