What’s a nice Jewish guy — a rabbi no less — doing working in convent? Ask Rabbi Steve Adams.
Spiritual leader at Congregation Emanu-El of Waukesha and past president of the Wisconsin Council of Rabbis, Adams teaches classes in computers and Judaism at LaFarge Lifelong Learning Institute’s main campus at St. Joseph’s Convent.
LaFarge was organized into a continuing education program by the School Sisters of St. Francis in 1967. Concerned with the physical and social needs of the aging nuns and the philosoply that learning and growth continues throughout life, the order developed a curriculum of courses for retired order sisters residing at St. Joseph’s Convent.
Soon, the surrounding community wanted to participate, so an organization separate from the religious order was created. From that point, hundreds of religious and lay people have served as volunteer instructors and staffed LaFarge’s learning sites, where enrichment education is provided for active adults over the age of 50.
“It doesn’t sound like typical rabbinic work, I know,” Adams admitted. “I became involved with LaFarge when I was the president of the Wisconsin Council of Rabbis and had the task of scheduling other rabbis to teach various classes.
“I was hedging about when I would be available to teach because I was looking for new employment when I was offered a job in [LaFarge’s] technology department. I’ve been interested in computers since I was in high school, but was a little unsure of my skill level. I re-did its database, and to be honest, I was surprised that I was able to do it. Now, I service the equipment in the computer lab and office and created a web page,” Adams explained.
Knowing, of course, that he was a rabbi, he was coaxed into teaching classes in Judaism as well. “I guess it’s a pretty unusual mix — computers and Judaism — but it works for me,” he said.
He mused, “On the days I teach computers, everyone calls me ‘Steve,’ while on the days I teach Judaism it’s ‘Rabbi Steve.’”
Adams admitted that it took a little time to adjust to spending so much time at the convent. “I’ve always been involved in interfaith programs so I’ve had some previous exposure. I guess a sense of humor helps,” he laughed.
Sr. Josephine Seier said that she feels the classes in Judaism add “a new dimension” to the program. “He’s very good with words, and I feel he’s [welcoming] to all.”
Adams credited the late Rabbi Emanuel Lifschutz with fostering the connection between LaFarge and the WCR. According to Adams, “He began teaching Judaism there because he thought it was important to offer something to this ‘community of learners.’ When it became too much for him, he turned it over to the WCR.”
Sr. Celia Schulte added, “Having a rabbi on staff and offering a class in Judaism really demonstrates our mission of diversity. We have other staff representing other faiths, which broadens our program.”
She acknowledged that some 20 years ago “our population was somewhat prejudiced. That’s the way the people grew up. But, today, with our programming, people have learned to be more tolerant in their lives.”
Course offerings range from arts and crafts, computers, English and literature, religion and philosophy, math and finance, health and physical fitness, social studies and foreign languages.
“We call the program a ‘full-brain workout,’” Adams quipped.
Courses are offered at various sites throughout the metropolitan area including the JCC Senior Center, 1410 N. Prospect Ave. LaFarge’s main campus is located at 1501 S. Layton Blvd. The current term began this week and runs through Aug. 3. A short summer term is scheduled from Aug. 13-Aug. 31.
For a catalog or more information, call the main campus, 383-2550.
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