(Re) New on the Scene: Melton Denver

"We have such a rich community of adult learners here at Temple Emanuel – people of all ages and backgrounds who truly value Jewish learning." says Rabbi Hyatt. "The introduction of Melton into our community brings so much beautiful content, deep history and trusted curricula to our learning and we look forward to the many ways we know Melton will bring us together and make our learning richer."

The Denver Jewish community is no stranger to Melton. Before integrating with their local Jewish Federation in 2016, their Central Agency for Jewish Education (CAJE) provided adult education through Melton. The past few years have seen a clamoring for the return of Melton's online classes, which Temple Emanuel is happy to provide.

Having just wrapped up their first Melton class, Rabbi Hyatt was impressed by the diversity of learners—a testament to Melton's pluralistic approach. From the Orthodox course teacher to learners ranging from young, interfaith couples that are new to the community to older, longtime congregants, participants are evidence of the uniting power of Jewish learning.

In addition to its educational value, Rabbi Hyatt expressed appreciation for the connectivity provided by Melton Denver.

"Like many other communities right now, we view opportunities to connect with each other as blessings," she said. "In these hybrid classes, we don't just learn together – we grow together."

Melton Denver's first class, "Members of the Tribe," from Melton's new Living Wisdom series, sold out within a week. Looking to the future, they are eager to offer more classes in their upcoming trimesters.

It's encouraging to hear stories of genuine connection from our partners. Although we develop our Jewish identities in our own, personal ways, the relationships we form within and beyond our communities have a profound impact. Melton Denver demonstrates the importance of having an online platform where Jews of all denominations can gather, discuss, and learn together.

Learners in the Melton Denver community echo this sentiment. A student shared how they feel empowered by their Jewish identity with the help of Denver Melton, stating, "It felt so good to be learning in a community. I really felt like I grew through this experience and strengthened my connection to text – and to my Temple family – through these classes. So glad we have a Melton program in Denver again!"

Melton Denver is a great example of adult learning as a tool for Jewish connectedness. When individual members grow, the entire Jewish community benefits. When individuals grow together, the benefits are even greater. Jewish communities like Denver are growing closer and stronger every day, one class at a time.

To sign up for classes with Melton Denver, please click here.

About Rabbi Emily Hyatt: Prior to her role at Temple Emanuel, Rabbi Emily Hyatt served as the Director of Jewish Enrichment for BBYO International. Rabbi Hyatt attended the American University, graduating with a B.A. in Constitutional Law and received an M.B.A. from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University and a Master in Jewish Education from the Hebrew College in Boston. She was ordained by the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion: Los Angeles Campus.