Sara & Samuel J. Lessans Adult Learning Institute
Sara & Samuel J. Lessans Adult Learning Institute
Welcome to B’nai Israel and our Adult Education program. At B’nai Israel, learning is a hallmark of our congregational culture. Parents and other adults participate in our classes to model the ethic of ongoing Jewish learning and to stimulate their minds and souls. We are committed to teaching Judaism as a thriving religion, at once relevant to our modern lives and enlightened by our ancient texts.
We offer a rich array of adult education programs in a variety of formats—from single lectures, to book clubs, to mini-mesters and courses of study that last a year or more. Whether you are new to Judaism or looking to deepen a lifetime of knowledge, you can grow at any age at B’nai Israel.
explore our impressive selection of classes & Programs
Fri, May 23 2025
25 Iyyar 5785
the latest
Expressions of Holiness (Parshat Emor, May 17) by Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz. Click here to watch.
announcements
Celebrate Shavuot
Join us for Shabbat dinner, evening of learning…and cheesecake! Learn more.
Adult March of the Living Trip April 22–May 1, 2025 LIVE BLOG
Read about our delegation's journey from darkness to light. Read the blog.
Lessans Talmud Torah Registration Open for 2025–26 School Year
Register K–8 students for religious school today and learn more about our award-winning program.
Registration for the 2025–2026 Schilit Nursery School Program Year is Open
Our award-winning school can't wait to meet you. Learn more.
Thanks for voting us Best of Jewish Washington! Named 2024 Best Preschool, Children & Teen Programming, Alternative Shabbat Service, and Judaica Shop! Learn more.
Looking for an Event? Check our Calendar.
Click here to see our daily programs.
NEW Hebrew High Launches for Grades 9–12
Our program is designed with the interests and schedules of teens in mind. Check it out.
B'nai Israel First Synagogue in North America to Install RightHear, supporting those who are blind or low vision.
Read our press release here.
NEW Resource: Fighting Antisemitism
Raise Awareness, Educate, and Act to stop antisemitism. Learn more.
Join Our Shabbat Morning Livestream
Click here to access.
Explore Our Exciting Adult Education Offerings
Learn more here.
shabbat services
Friday | 6:15 PM (7:00 PM during Summer)
Access via Zoom (password 6301)
Saturday | 9:00 AM & 12:30 PM (Minha)
Access via Livestream
weekday services
Sunday | 9:00 AM & 8:00 PM
Monday–Thursday | 7:15 AM & 8:00 PM
Friday | 7:15 AM
*Service times vary on holidays.
Click here for access information.
inclement weather policy
Click here for information.
Join Our Mailing List
We are accessible
B’nai Israel is proud to be accessible to all.
Large print siddurim, assistive listening devices and page magnifiers are readily available. Our entire building and grounds are wheelchair accessible. We can provide sign language interpreters upon request and subject to availability.
