Tuesdays, November 18, 2025 - March 31, 2026
6:30pm - 9:30pm
Valley Beth Shalom (Encino)

Registration open! Miller Intro to Judaism

The Miller Intro to Judaism Program is the go-to Jewish class for anyone interested in building a foundation of Jewish knowledge, how-tos, and practices. It is a great way to start your journey if you are considering converting to Judaism. Throughout this 18-week course, students of all ages and backgrounds meet to explore significant topics. From rituals and holidays to Torah and values, every cohort is guided by a rabbi who brings the past, present, and future together. Learn what we cover in the class overview.

Want to learn more about what it takes to convert to Judaism? 
Read our guide: Four Steps to Becoming a Jew.

The Miller Introduction to Judaism Program is an 18-week course that provides fundamental knowledge, practical skills, and insights into Jewish culture. No matter your age or background, you can join the program to learn about significant topics such as rituals, holidays, Torah, and values. With guidance from a rabbi, each cohort explores the past, present, and future of Judaism.

We offer classes both in-person at local synagogues and online via Zoom. 

Whether you simply want to learn more about the basics of Judaism or are ready to begin your journey to conversion, the Miller Introduction toJudaism Program is for you.

For questions, please contact maascenter [at] aju.edu (maascenter[at]aju[dot]edu).

We offer a refund for tuition (minus the non-refundable tuition deposit) up to 30 days after the start of your class.

November 2025 In-Person Class Schedule

November 18  - Torah: Our People’s Story

November 25 - Ancient Israel: Kings, Priests, Prophets

December 2 - Two Jews . . . Three Opinions

December 9 - Sacred Days: The Festivals of the Year

December 16 - Shabbat: A Cathedral in Time

December 23 , December 30                   NO CLASS (WINTER BREAK)

January 6 - Prayer: Keva and Kavanna

January 13 - Passover: Exodus and Us

January 20 - God Wrestling

January 27 - The Rabbinic Revolution

February 3 - Days of Awe

February 10 - Jews + Food

February 17 - Under Crescent and Cross

February 24 - The Greatest Blessing

March 3 - From Generation to Generation

March 10 - Life’s Hard Times

March 17 - Hatred and Heroism

March 24 - Israel: A Great Dream

March 31 - The Jewish Mission to Heal the World

If you are planning on becoming a Jew by Choice:

When you have completed all course requirements, please schedule a final meeting with your instructor and/or sponsoring rabbi. They will confirm that you have attended all eighteen classes. Additionally, they may ask you to do some additional learning in preparation for conversion. Completion of course requirements is not a guarantee of eligibility to convert.