Our Lifelong Learning committee works with Rabbi Aliza and Benita to bring speakers and programs that spark our curiosity and renew our passion for Jewish learning. Just as important, every program is a chance to get to know one another and deepen our connection to the HBT community.
Programs are usually small groups. Some meet at the synagogue and some in members' homes.
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Book Group · 4 Sundays
Reading, Eating and Meeting
This year's theme is Jewish communities around the world, from Salonika to Shanghai, India and Ethiopia. Come for one book or all four.
Next: Sunday, October 25, 10:00 AM
See the reading list for the HBT Book Group
The Little Liar by Mitch Albom -
Coming up
More programs on the way
New speakers, workshops and gatherings are added here as they're scheduled. Check back, or see our upcoming events.
Past programs have included speakers, films, book discussions, LGBTQ topics, political issues in Israel and Palestine, holidays and food. Recent favorites:
- A book talk by local author Joan Leegant on her story collection Displaced Persons
- Poetry workshops with Josh Coben
- Swing dancing
Share your expertise
Our community is blessed with a wealth of knowledge and connections. If you have an idea for a program, would like to give a presentation, or want to bring in a guest speaker, please contact Benita at bblock@templehbt.org.
New to HBT, or unsure about an activity or location? Call the office, or contact our committee chair, Shelley Stevens, at shelleystevens34@gmail.com.
Joan Leegant- Book Talk
Sunday afternoon Dec. 15th,2025 we had a strong turnout for local author, Joan Leegant, who spoke about her new book, Displaced Persons. A dynamic and engaging speaker, Joan read excerpts from her collection of short stories, half of which took place in the U.S. and half in Israel. She truly made the characters come alive as she read and discussed her writing process.
As an active member of Jewish authors in Israel and the diaspora, she shared recent difficulties Israeli authors are experiencing since Oct. 7th. Many are experiencing boycotts of their work by publishers and book stores. Others are no longer invited to book festivals. On her book tours to many synagogues, she is encouraging members of the Jewish community to purchase books by Jewish authors and also request that libraries carry particular Jewish books that you are interested in reading.
Shelley Stevens - Lifelong Learning Committee
