Jewish connection to Holy Land explored

A new class, "The Land and the Spirit," will explore the spiritual connection of the Jewish people to the Holy Land and is offered at the Chabad Jewish Center, 5040 Telegraph Road, across from Ventura College in Ventura.

The class runs for six consecutive Wednesdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., starting Oct. 31.

The course fee is $75, or $135 per couple, which includes a student textbook. Students age 21 and under are free and need only pay for the textbook. This program is made possible by a grant from the Jewish Federation of Western Ventura County.

The class is presented by the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute to more than 250 affiliates worldwide.

Unlike other courses that are concerned primarily with the modern state of Israel or its ancient history, "The Land and The Spirit" focuses on the mystery of the deep bond that many people feel for the land of Israel and provides students with an explanation for the central role the Holy Land plays in the Jews' mission throughout history.

The course explains what it means for a land to be holy and also explores the relationship that Jews in the Diaspora maintain with Israel despite their diverse nationalities.

For more information, course outline and to register online, call (805) 558-1770 or visit the website www.MyJLI.com.