FolkLab: Hineni’s Next Chapter
FolkLab is Jewfolk, Inc.’s evolution of Talmud Torah of St. Paul’s beloved Hineni program, broadening access to deep, meaningful Jewish learning and connecting people across the Twin Cities through shared exploration, culture, and community.
Lifelong Jewish learning. Increased access. One connected community.
FolkLab builds on legacy and intention as it continues to provide communal Jewish educational opportunities for all.
This next chapter preserves the rigor, depth, and spirit of what it was while expanding access for Jews of all affiliations, backgrounds, and life journeys.
From classical text study and contemplative practice to courses and workshops on Jewish culture, history, and big ideas, FolkLab is dedicated to removing barriers to Jewish learning and engagement by increasing experiential touchpoints, online offerings, and in-person programming in accessible, attractive, and unconventional spaces on both sides of the river. Rooted in St. Paul and branching outward across Minneapolis, the inner and outer metros, and beyond, FolkLab seeks to forge partnerships across the Twin Cities to connect Jewish families and individuals through shared exploration.
What You’ll Find at FolkLab
FolkLab offers multiple ways to engage with Jewish learning, life, and culture, including:
- Substantive Jewish learning, including deep-dive courses on text and traditions, drop-in classes, and other ongoing offerings from former Hineni faculty.
- Cross-congregational programs, including the annual Engage! Day of Learning and the Summer Learning Series.
- Diverse entry points for Jewish learning and engagement across all backgrounds, knowledge levels, ages, and life stages.
- In-person, virtual, and asynchronous opportunities, with thoughtful attention to location, transportation, and accessibility.
- Reasonable pricing and scholarship options, so cost is not a barrier.
- Big events with broad appeal, alongside intimate, discussion-based learning.
- Sustained Jewish contemplative practice opportunities alongside traditional modes of study and collaborative exploration.
- A postdenominational approach, welcoming learners from all affiliations and identities.
- A platform for Jewish learning, experimentation, and connection that grows directly out of community-generated interests.
Jewfolk, Inc.’s Core Values in Action
Connection (Chibur).
FolkLab brings people together through shared learning experiences – bridging neighborhoods, generations, affiliations, and backgrounds. By partnering with synagogues, educators, and community organizations on both sides of the river, FolkLab strengthens the connective tissue of Jewish life across the Twin Cities.
Creativity (Y’tziratiyut).
FolkLab thinks outside the box to meet the needs of today’s Jewish community, blending rigorous academic learning with cultural exploration, contemplative practice, and experiential formats. Honoring tradition while inviting innovation ensures Jewish learning remains relevant, meaningful, and alive.
Engagement (Me’uravut).
FolkLab embraces the diversity of ways to be Jewish by maximizing on-ramps to participation. Whether someone is seeking deep text study, a single event, or an ongoing learning community, FolkLab offers meaningful entry points that invite sustained involvement.
Storytelling (Sipur Sipurim).
FolkLab honors the past while shaping the future – uplifting both classical Jewish wisdom and contemporary lived experience. By preserving Hineni’s story and expanding who gets to be part of it, FolkLab links past and future through learning that is shared, communal, and deeply human.
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
Change can be hard. FolkLab is committed to preserving what has worked – beloved classes, trusted teachers, and deep learning – while thoughtfully expanding what’s possible. This is an additive evolution, not a replacement, and a continuation of offering educational and engaging spaces for learning with new energy, reach, and creativity.
A Word from Hineni’s Founder
“The Talmud Torah of St. Paul began Hineni in 2014 with several important goals in mind: to provide adult Jewish learning not already available in the Twin Cities; to include folks from across denominations and (even more importantly) from both sides of the river; to introduce participants to teachers they might not otherwise meet; to provide access to Jewish contemplative practices; and where appropriate to collaborate with area synagogues and agencies. It is my hope that FolkLab will build on the success of Hineni and encourage ever more serious Jewish learning and access to Jewish contemplative practices in our community. “
— Sara Lynn Newberger, Founder of Hineni
FAQ
Q: Is Hineni going away?
A: No. The central mission and core programs will endure under a new name — and new stewardship. FolkLab seeks to preserve the spirit and substance that has been inherited and increase entry points for Jewish learning, contemplative practice, and experiential education throughout the Twin Cities.
Q: Will my favorite classes continue?
A: Yes. Ongoing offerings like Sara Lynn Newberger’s weekly drop-in classes and Conversational Hebrew with Susie Chalom will continue, in addition to other series taught by former Hineni faculty and partners. The annual Engage! Day of Learning and Summer Learning Series are also returning as part of FolkLab.
Q: Who can participate in FolkLab?
A: Anyone! FolkLab removes barriers of location, affiliation, or prior knowledge, offering multiple entry points for learners of all ages and backgrounds.
Q: Are programs virtual or in-person?
A: Both: FolkLab offers in-person events across the Twin Cities, as well as virtual and asynchronous options.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: We aim to make FolkLab widely accessible with reasonable pricing and abundant scholarship opportunities. Any fees associated with our classes or events go directly to covering program costs (honoraria, venue/security rates, materials, etc.).
Q: How does FolkLab fit in with Jewfolk, Inc.’s platform and mission?
A: Making local events, stories, communities, and culture accessible to all Twin Cities Jewish people has always been our driving mission. Whether we reach individuals and families through journalism, podcasts, personal essays, online groups, or in-person programs, Jewfolk, Inc.’s approach is centered around offering multiple + low barrier entry points to local Judaism. FolkLab represents a continuation of this mission as well as a wonderful opportunity to further our partnerships with Jewish organizations, synagogues, artists, and educators.
Q: What makes FolkLab different from other Jewish learning programs?
A: FolkLab combines rigorous study with cultural exploration, contemplative practice, and community connection. It is additive, collaborative, and rooted in both tradition and innovation.
