You might also check out the temple there. It's actually really close to SJC, and it's really nice. I used to go there a lot when I was more jewish. ( I went to several years of hebrew school there. ) I think there's a whole lot on jewish religion at SJC, so it's a thought.

Also, your friend sounds pretty much like what I would want to be. I need to learn more about Paganism and whatnot before I can technically be called "practicing" though.