What is Possible? New JLI course has the answers

What is possible?

The new Rohr Jewish Learning Institute class explores that concept, by taking the notion that “this can never happen” and transforming it into “This Can Happen: A Credible Case for Feeling Good About the Future.”

The six-week course is being introduced at Chabad Centers nationwide this month, with many centers holding virtual classes that can be accessed by those who do not have a participating Chabad nearby.

Noting how believers for millennia have considered the possibility of a messianic age, the course starts with how in today’s world, society can be radically and rapidly transformed by the actions of a few — and why not use that fact for good? Why not develop a practical path toward the perfect world that Judaism strives toward?

The first class will examine current chaos and discord, diving into what is wrong — and right — with the world. Additional classes discuss the idea of redemption and where it fits into Judaism and the story of creation, waiting for a messiah versus plowing forward with positive actions, four epochs in Jewish history that demonstrate the progress that has been made toward a good world, what the sources say about how redemption will come about, and what the end result will look like.

In Metairie, there will be a free trial standalone class on April 20, at 10:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dinner will be served at the evening class. The course will continue on Tuesdays from April 20 to May 25, with the May 18 class moved to May 20 due to Shavuot. The 10:30 a.m. classes will be virtual, while the 7:30 p.m. classes have an in-person option. Registration is $70, $63 for returning students.

The Uptown Chabad in New Orleans will hold the class on Wednesdays from April 28 to June 2, virtually at 3 p.m. and in person at 7 p.m. Registration is $70.

In Baton Rouge, the course is available in person at the Richmond Inn and Suites, or virtually, from April 28 to June 2, at 7 p.m. Registration is $89 with a 10 percent couples discount.

Beit Ariel Chabad in Birmingham will hold the class on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. from April 21 to May 26. Registration is $89, with a 25 percent discount for dual registrations.

More information is here.