Lifelong Jewish Learning 8 Our Youth 10 B'nei Mitzvah 10 Contributions 13 Calendar 15 From Rabbi Rheins 2 Ritual Column 3 From Cantor Nesis 5 New Chapel Dedication 5 From the President 6 In the Congregation 7 The Temple Sinai Staff would like to wish you a wonderful , healthy and sweet New Year . We feel so fortunate to serve this community and want to express our sincere appreciation for your generosity and patience this past year . We can't wait to share all our new spaces with you! Sinai Simchas are Back! See page 7 for more info .
Transcript
Lifelong Jewish Learning 8
Our Youth 10
B'nei Mitzvah 10
Contributions 13
Calendar 15
From Rabbi Rheins 2
Ritual Column 3
From Cantor Nesis 5
New Chapel Dedication 5
From the President 6
In the Congregation 7
The Temple Sinai Staff would like to wish you a wonderful, healthy and sweet New Year. We feel so fortunate to serve this community and want to express our sincere appreciation for your generosity and patience this past year. We can't wait to share all our new spaces with you!
Sinai Simchas are Back! See page 7 for more info.
Thirty-seven years ago the Reform Movement introduced its new machzor, High Holy Day (HHD) prayerbook, Gates of Repentance. Temple Sinai was still a relatively young congregation in 1978, barely 11 years old. We had just moved into our star-crossed building on Dartmouth (alav ha-shalom) and, under Rabbi Zwerin’s guidance, we adopted the new machzor. Indeed, it represented the very essence of Temple Sinai: an intelligent expression of modern Judaism that embraced the heimische warmth of tradition.
Having grown up with the old Union Prayer Books, I was both intrigued, challenged and delighted with the new series of Gates of Prayer (for Shabbat, Festivals and Weekdays) and Gates of Repentance (for the HHD). Little did I know at the time that I would have the opportunity as a student Rabbi to introduce both of the new Reform prayerbooks to my congregations. Even further from my imagination was that my first congregation after ordination in 1989 would be in Chappaqua, New York, led by the gifted liturgist Rabbi Chaim Stern z’’l, the editor and driving force behind the Reform Movement’s prayerbooks both here and in England.
Far from being protective about his heralded prayerbooks, Chaim was forever creating new liturgy, tweaking the texts, exploring ever better ways to express Jewish spirituality. The truth is, we almost never used the Gates of Prayer. Instead, we experimented with egalitarian and gender-inclusive versions of it. He knew we could do better and he devoted his life to that quest. In great part, due to his inspiration and influence, Mishkan T’filah, our new prayerbook for Shabbat, Festivals and Weekdays, was created and published in 2007. We adopted it here at Temple Sinai a few years after my arrival, and it quickly won the approval and appreciation of our members.
Now the Reform movement has published Mishkan HaNefesh, a new machzor for the HHD. It is a most worthy addition to the proud legacy of Reform liturgy and I am thrilled that Temple Sinai will be among the hundreds of other Reform congregations utilizing this trail-blazing new prayerbook. That being said, I have been using the old machzor to lead services for over 30 years. All the notes and cues, so carefully inscribed on the pages of my pulpit edition, are now to be but faded reminders of yesteryears. The rhythm and flow honed by decades of familiarity are now suddenly gone, leaving me, like all of you, anxious to see how this new machzor will really work.
Will there be some rough bumps and awkward
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Richard Rheins Senior Rabbi
From Rabbi Rheins
What is this new High Holy Day Machzor all about? transitions as we use it this year? Absolutely! Then again, isn’t that what the HHD are all about? This is the time to disrupt the routine and common-place. This is a time to think fresh, to seek deeper insights, to acquire perspectives that add meaning and wisdom that will form the foundation of the coming year’s journey. Mishkan HaNefesh accomplishes all of that and much more.
The transliterations will enable all to participate in the Hebrew readings and songs. The inclusive language and explanations will help to make the services even more inviting and welcoming. The alternative readings are both thought provoking and beautiful. Most importantly, there is space and a place for individual expression. While as a congregation we select certain passages to read and sing, the alternative readings and explanations are attractive rest stops where one can dwell in personal reflection.
Is this new machzor perfect? No, of course not! Perfection is an obnoxious and unobtainable taunt. But Mishkan HaNefesh is an exciting step forward and one that, given some time to adjust and become more familiar with its considerable spiritual gifts, will become a beloved part of our lives. I believe that Chaim would be very pleased.
Susan, Joshua, Sam, and Jakob join me in wishing you and your loved ones a sweet year filled with God’s blessings of good health, happiness and prosperity.
L’Shana Tovah teka-tay-vu ve-t’cha-tay-mu,
Rabbi Rick Rheins
Do You Have Yours?Stop by the Temple office and purchase your
set (one is for Rosh HaShanah and the other, Yom Kippur). Sets are $50. For more information or questions, call Lin Sunshine at 303-759-1827. While you are purchasing your books, please consider donating a set to Temple Sinai in honor of or in memory of a loved one.
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Ritual Column
Friday, September 46:00 p.m., Kabbalat Shabbat ServiceSaturday, September 5SELICHOT9:00 a.m., Shabbat Morning Minyan7:00 p.m., Selichot Program followed by Selichot ServiceFriday, September 115:30 p.m., New Chapel Naming & Dedication7:00 p.m., Erev Shabbat ServiceSaturday, September 129:00 a.m., Shabbat Morning MinyanSunday, September 13EREV ROSH HASHANAH8:00 p.m., Erev Rosh HaShanah
Service
Monday, September 14ROSH HASHANAHSee page 15 for service timesTuesday, September 15ROSH HASHANAH 2ND DAY10:00 a.m., Rosh HaShanah 2nd Day
ServiceFriday, September 187:00 p.m., Erev Shabbat ServiceSaturday, September 199:00 a.m., Shabbat Morning MinyanSunday, September 20Cemetery Memorial Services:10:30 a.m., Fairmount11:30 a.m., Mt. Nebo12:30 a.m., Rose HillTuesday, September 22KOL NIDRE7:00 p.m., Kol Nidre Services
Wednesday, September 23YOM KIPPURSee page 15 for service timesFriday, September 257:00 p.m., Erev Shabbat ServiceSaturday, September 269:00 a.m., Shabbat Morning Minyan10:30 a.m., B/M M. KretchmerSunday, September 27EREV SUKKOT6:00 p.m., Erev Sukkot ServiceMonday, September 28SUKKOTSukkot10:00 a.m., Sukkot Service
Worship Services
The New Year holds such promise and potential. Each of us has the opportunity to start fresh and bring the best of our values and character to shine. The High Holy Days have proven over the past 3,500 years to be extraordinarily important to help us reflect, repent, learn, and grow. The Selichot program and service (on the Saturday evening before Rosh HaShanah) help us to prepare ourselves emotionally, intellectually and spiritually for a transformative experience during the High Holy Days.
This year, Selichot will feature the Regional Premier of a ground-breaking musical program “Meeting the Ghosts.” After the program we will join together for a very meaningful Selichot service which concludes with the sounding of the shofar and the dressing of our Torahs in their High Holy Day white covers.
Because of the generous underwriters and sponsors, the Selichot musical program and service are free to all. Please invite your friends to join us!
Selichot Program and ServiceSaturday, September 5 at 7:00 p.m.
Reminder: We will be returning to our regular Erev Shabbat service time of 7:00 p.m. beginning Friday, September 11.
Family Rosh HaShanah Service at WESTLANDS Park!1st Day of Rosh HaShanah, Monday, September 14 at 4:30 p.m.
Followed by
TASHLICH at 5:15 p.m This year we will have our first Family Rosh HaShanah service in the Park. We’ll be at the beautiful Westlands
Park off of Quebec in Greenwood Village (just behind the Greenwood Athletic Club). After the family service we will continue with the fun and meaningful ritual of Tashlich. This is a time-honored tradition whereby we “cast out” our sins and disappointments from the past year. This is an especially delightful event for families with children. As we symbolically rid ourselves of sins, we usher in the New Year 5776 with a new and fresh start to life.
Both services are free to all. Don’t forget to bring some bread crumbs!
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Ritual Column
So, What To Do With the Old Machzorim?
Prayerbooks contain sacred passages that have inspired generations. Even when a new edition of a prayerbook is published, the older versions still have great spiritual as well as sentimental value. The best home for an old machzor is your home. A great many of the meditations in the Gates of Repentance (GOR) have not been included in the new machzor. While that’s a shame, it is also a practical necessity. Mishkan HaNefesh is rather lengthy (but don’t worry, our services will not be longer!) and there simply wasn’t room for every favorite passage from the GOR. That being said, I’ll continue to cherish my copies of the GOR as well as editions from other out-of-print prayerbooks. They have become heirlooms that I hope will be treasured by generations to come.
So, keep the old machzorim! If you have many copies, then share them with family and friends. But please do not throw them away. As sacred texts, machzorim are lovingly buried in a Jewish cemetery when they are damaged beyond repair or no longer of use. Both Rose Hill and Mt.Nebo cemeteries will take your sacred books for burial. Temple Sinai will be arranging for the burial of some of our damaged but sacred books. Information about the time and place will be announced later in the Fall.
Healing Service: Thursday, October 1 at 11:00 a.m.For our Healing Service, we gather together
in the sacred space of the Zwerin Sanctuary for prayers, meditations, and the warm embrace of friends to renew our sense of hope, strength and healing. Led by Rabbis Rick and Susan Rheins and Cantor Nesis, the Healing Service is for all those who are struggling with illness, sadness and grief. This sweet hour of prayer, meditations and sharing is also a blessed restorer of hope for all who are caregivers and others who seek inspiration as they pray for the welfare of loved ones.
All are welcome.
Temple Sinai Cemetery Memorial ServicesSunday, September 20
at Fairmont Cemetery, 10:30 a.m. at Mount Nebo Cemetery, 11:30 a.m.
and at Rose Hill Cemetery at 12:30 p.m.On the days between Rosh HaShanah and
Yom Kippur, many observe the tradition of visiting the gravesites of deceased loved ones. Since we have members buried at several different cemeteries, Rabbi Susan Rheins will lead a memorial service at Fairmont Cemetery on Sunday, September 20 at 10:30 a.m. (we will rendezvous at the main office, off Quebec). Later that morning, at 11:00 a.m., Rabbi Rick Rheins will lead a memorial service at the Temple Sinai section of Mount Nebo Cemetery, and he will also lead a service at Rose Hill Cemetery at 12:30 p.m. No reservations are required for the memorial services.
We have created memorial prayer booklets that will be available upon request for all who would like to visit a gravesite at a different cemetery or who cannot make the services. Please call the Temple office to request the booklets.
Lunch & Learn!Thursdays, Noon to 1:00 p.m.
September 3, 10, 17 & October 1(note that we will not have L&L on September 24)
• Review and discuss ethical & moral issuesin selected Jewish texts.
• Make new friends!• Bring your lunch! We will serve the
text and topics!The emphasis is on discussion, questions and
thoughts about the texts and other pressing issues of the day.
Newcomers quickly and easily fit right in!
You Can Build Your Own Sukkah!It is easier (and less expensive) than ever for those interested in building their own sukkah. While there
are several different and good companies that will sell you a sukkah building kit, I highly recommend The Sukkah Project because it is a company that produces very affordable kits for making a family sukkah AND it is now owned and operated in Arvada, Colorado! These popular kits go up in about 2 hours and will provide a real sukkah for your family and friends to enjoy throughout the Festival of Sukkot. It is a fun tradition to visit each other during the Festival, to raise the etrog, shake the lulav, and share a meal in the splendor of a sukkah. For more information, visit TheSukkahProject.com or call 844-478-5568 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., (except Shabbat: Friday sundown to Saturday sundown).
This is also a good time to order an etrog and lulav set. You can surf on the web for a set.
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I begin to prepare for the High Holy Days this year with a completely new sense of excitement and anxiety: this coming December, my husband Alex and I will welcome our first child into our lives. While I’m overwhelmed with joy and enthusiasm, I wonder what the High Holy Days will be like for me, from both a physical and spiritual point of view: Will I need to sit down more than what I’m accounting for? Will I have enough breaks to grab a snack or orange juice? Will I be too emotional to sing through certain pieces without crying? Could I hurt my baby if I push myself too hard, both during the preparation and execution of services? Will my voice carry out as usual? Will I be able to fulfill my role as Sheliach Tzibur, as an emissary of the Congregation? And then, I realize I won’t be fully alone with my excitement and anxiety: all of you, too, will have your “new babies”, our new Mishkan HaNefesh prayer books. You may wonder if you will get lost too often, or if you will be able to engage in the reading and the singing in the way you used to.
Traditionally, Rosh HaShanah services would open with the prayer Hineni, “Here I am.” We won’t do it this year, so I invite you all to read it ahead of time or when you get to shul! As Hazzan Alberto Mizrahi from congregation Ashei Emet in Chicago would say, “In the very old days” the Cantor would come out from the back and say: “Hineni,” and a rehearsed member of the congregation would ask, in a loud voice:
- “Who are you?”- “Heoni mimas,” “I’m poor in deeds,” the Cantor would answer.It was a feed into the words of the Hineni. As the prayer continues, the Cantor asks for strength
and forgiveness: “I know I’m unworthy to represent the entire congregation in prayer, and yet the congregation has appointed me. So please God, forgive my sins. I’m here to represent the congregation, let me feel pure, let me be pure in our eyes.”
As we come together for this High Holy Days, I pray we will yet again enter into this sacred spiritual contract: that you will trust us, your clergy, to lead you through the words and prayers and songs of our new machzor, that hopefully will lift up your spirits in a new and meaningful way, and that you will accept me as your spiritual emissary, with my flows, my poorness of deeds, and…oh! On this year, even with some shortness of breath.
Sheila Nesis
From Cantor Nesis
Sheila NesisCantor
Come Join Us for the Dedication Ceremony of theAbrahams Family Chapel
Friday, Sept 11
5:30-7:00 p.m. followed by Shabbat Services
Temple Sinai is truly blessed to be the home the newest and one of the most spectacularly beautiful Chapels in the country. For years we could only dream of a worship space that would be a warm and inspiring House of Worship for gatherings of 25 to 175. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Marshall and Helene Abrahams, that dream is now our blessed reality!
Words cannot adequately describe the beauty of our new Chapel. Natural light pours through tall windows. Natural stone evokes look and feel of Jerusalem. The bimah is just the right height: allowing speakers to be seen without a sense of distance or separation. A gorgeous wood Torah holder will already be in place---and in time, an awesome wood lectern will grace the bimah. Both are the creation of Temple Sinai member Les Stern. Eventually, exquisite stained-glass windows will fill the Chapel with a colorful glow. Since words do not it justice, you’ll just have to personally experience the new Chapel---again and again!
On Friday, September 11, you are cordially invited to attend the Dedication ceremony of the Abrahams Family Chapel! The reception begins at 5:30 and we will have celebratory remarks and rituals beginning around 6:15. Naturally, the event will conclude with the beginning of Erev Shabbat services at 7:00pm----in our new Chapel. Chances are that at services we will have an overflow crowd, and perhaps Standing Room Only, but that’s okay, the spirit will be electric with joy!
Know that the Abrahams Family Chapel will also be the home of our Alternative High Holy Day services. What a fabulous way to begin the New Year!
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Wendy VeanPresident
From The President
Sinai Softball Teams: the Mitzvahs and the Kosher Hammies!
Chai-Lights from the President
The Executive Committee, along with the Board of Trustees, has made great strides in the first two months of our new term. Each and every member is professional, engaged and of exemplary character. It gives me a great sense of pride to Chai-Light some of the Board’s accomplishments, activities, strategy and direction.
We continue to maintain a thriving community, knowing how important our focus must remain.
The Board has worked tirelessly to put us in a more sustainable financial position. We have made a lot of difficult decisions, trimmed everywhere possible and continue to explore new revenue streams.
We are strategizing the next phase of the Building our Future Capital Campaign knowing how critical it is to pay down the mortgage as quickly as possible. We need our members to continue to support this project. If you would like to help with campaign/fundraising efforts, please contact me at [email protected].
The current Temple Sinai bylaws are being updated and will be finalized by October.
A Revised Statement of Investment Policy was recently passed detailing the financial planning for our endowment funds/Sinai Circle.
The Temple Sinai Employee Handbook is currently being re-written. Increasing revenue through current and additional programming is being evaluated.
New approaches to member retention are being determined and discussed. Please let me know if you want to be more involved at any level in our Temple Sinai community.This is your Temple and your spiritual home. Don't be a guest -be a family member! Because of all of you and your generosity and commitment, we have a great deal to be thankful for - a new Learning Center, a new Chapel, a refurbished Sanctuary and Social Hall, including a new roof, sound system, kitchen, and a refreshed office...all completed with the direction of a Building Committee that continues to work over and above all expectations. I would like to wish all of you a Happy, Sweet New Year. May 5776 be filled with peace and good health! L'Shanah Tovah,
Wendy
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In the Congregation
Thursday, October 22Theatre Night
Theatre Or presents the Regional Premiere of a New Musical
My Mother’s Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding
Located at the Soiled Dove in LowryA hilarious, heartfelt story of a divorced
woman’s journey of self-discovery and the son that turns her life into a hit musical. A beautiful modern love story about family, community, change and finding yourself.
Tickets are $22.00, $27.00 or $30.00Please RSVP by October 1 to Lisa Thorner at
[email protected] or 303-759-1827.For additional programming information or
to RSVP, contact Lisa Thorner at
303-759-1827 or lisa@
sinaidenver.org
Lisa Thorner Director of
Programming and Volunteer Development
Book Groups starts up again in September!We meet on the last Wednesday of each
month except where noted by ** from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Sept. 30 Exile by Richard North PattersonOct. 28 The Girl From Human Street: Ghosts
of Memory in a Jewish Family by Roger Cohen**Nov. 18 The Sisters Weiss by Naomi Regen Dec. 30 Henna House by Naomi Eve
Temple Sinai Book Group
Sinai Simchah SeriesTemple Sinai is bringing back the Sinai
Simchah Series which will help support programs that promote Jewish learning, worship and community. Sinai Simchahs are a series of fun(d)-raising events that will take place between September 5, 2015 with a kick-off event, Meeting the Ghosts, and conclude with the Annual Event on May 14, 2016. The Simchahs are hosted and sponsored by Temple Sinai members and we will have fantastic events for children, families, teens and adults. The goal of these events is to raise money for Temple Sinai, build community and make new friends.
Participation opportunities are endless:-Volunteer to be on the committee;-Host an event at your home or at an outside venue;-Attend one of the fantastic events.The events hosted are limited only by your
imagination. Some ideas include: dinner at your home with entertainment, pizza party, bowling, murder-mystery night, etc.
If you would like to host or co-host an event of your own design or would like help coming up with an idea, contact Lisa Thorner as soon as possible, but no later than September 30, at 303-759-1827 or [email protected]. The host(s) is responsible for the costs of the event. That is your contribution to Temple Sinai. The Temple makes money by congregants signing up and paying for events that are being offered.
A booklet listing of activities and their various prices will be sent to you in October.
A fabulous new Social Connections group is being formed at Temple Sinai for single men and women 55 years and older. Please call Gayle Glucksman at 303-908-0455 for additional information.
ENCORE in Georgetown!
Book of SinaiAttention Guys and Gals: Are you single
and 55 or older? Tired of surfing the internet to meet a companion or significant other? Come to the Book of Sinai at Temple Sinai and have a more personalized approach! For more information, please call Gayle at 303-908-0455.
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In the Congregation
Temple Sinai is pleased to offer the Lifelong Jewish Learning lecture series as a gift to the community. No reservations are required and you may attend any or all
sessions. Lifelong Jewish Learning will begin a new semester this October. The series will take place on Wednesday nights from 6:30-8:00 p.m. October 7 On Stage: Actress Judy Winnick Portrays Miep Gies, Anne Frank’s Protector
Miep Gies (1909-2010) is one of the unsung heroes of the Holocaust. This petite, humble, Catholic woman helped hide Anne Frank and her family in the Netherlands during WWII, providing them with food and other basic necessities. After the Nazis discovered the hiding place, Miep made a discovery that would protect Anne Frank’s legacy for all time.
Judy Winnick portrays extraordinary women from WWII history in her one woman shows, including Miep Gies: A Beacon of Hope and Irena Sendler: Angel of the Warsaw Ghetto. “These women inspire me with their courage, humility, compassion, and the message that one person can make a difference.”
She is on the Colorado Humanities/Chautauqua Speakers Bureau and has performed internationally. During her teaching career she received one of Colorado’s Distinguished Teacher Awards. Following her performance, Ms. Winnick will answer questions from the audience both as Miep and as herself. A reception will follow. October 21Film At The Temple: Little White Lie
One of the films presented at last year’s Denver Jewish Film Festival, Little White Lie tells Lacey Schwartz’s story of growing up in a typical upper-middle-class Jewish household in Woodstock, NY, with loving parents and a strong sense of her Jewish identity — despite the open questions about her dark skin. Despite the explanation of a dark-skinned Sicilian grandfather, she works up the courage to confront her mother, when her parents abruptly split up. Even after she learns the truth - that her mother had an affair and her biological father is black, Lacey won’t openly acknowledge her newly discovered black identity, until the time comes when the secret can no longer be hidden from the rest of the family.
Reservations are a must; space is limited to 50 people.
November 4Dr. Jeanne AbramsThe Jewish American Experience: From Haven to Home: 350 Years of Jewish Life
In November, Temple Sinai will have on display a travelling exhibition of 15 panels of photos and documents that examine the Jewish experience in the United States through the lens of “Haven” and “Home.”
Dr. Jeanne Abrams of the American Jewish Historical Society and the Beck Archives at the University of Denver, will discuss the exhibit that examines the American Jewish experience from its beginnings in 1654 to the present day. “Haven” explores the formative experiences of Jewish immigrants as they struggled to become American. “Home” focuses on the uniquely American Jewish religious movements, institutions and associations formed in response to being part of a free society. November 18Julie BaretzThe Bible on Location: Off the Beaten Track in Ancient and Modern Israel.
The Rabbis will be hosting special guest Julie Baretz in conjunction with LLJL. Baretz, who has served as an Israeli tour guide for Temple Sinai on several occasions, is coming to the U.S. on tour for her new book, The Bible on Location: Off the Beaten Track in Ancient and Modern Israel. Check out her website at http://julben.wix.com/juliebaretz to find out why we’re so excited to hear more from our honored speaker. December 2Elizabeth Karlsgodt, Associate Professor of History, University of DenverReclaiming Art Looted by the Nazis
The recent film, Woman in Gold, described one Jewish woman’s victorious recovery of a famous portrait the Nazis stolen from her uncle in 1938. That was far from an isolated incident as Holocaust survivors and victims’ relatives continue to search for their family art collections.
Karlsgodt, an expert in art restitution, will talk about the frustration in trying to get cooperation from countries, museums and collectors who benefited from the Nazi-looted art, and the quest for justice. “It’s hard to know for sure, but at least 100,000 artworks confiscated by the Nazis have not been returned to their rightful owners,” says Karlsgodt.
In the Congregation
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Shred-a-Thon FundraiserSunday, September 27
Along with our electronic recycling fundraiser, we are once again offering a shredding event on Sunday, September 27 from 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. We hope that you can join us for this exciting community-wide event. We are asking for a suggested donation of $18.00.
Once again, Temple Sinai will host an electronics recycling event to benefit both the environment and Temple Sinai.
Drop off your old electronics in the Temple’s Main Office or Preschool Office along with your suggested Chai donation of $18.00, and we will take care of the recycling from there!
Here is a list of items we can recycle: • Desktops and laptops• LCD/LED monitors• CRT monitors (*$20 per monitor)• Computer peripherals & accessories• Computer mice• Keyboards• Copiers• Printers (*$8 per printer)• Digital cameras• Cell phones• Game consoles• NO TVs PLEASE!
Electronics Recycling
FundraiserSeptember 27-October 9
SAVE THE DATECreate Custom Judaica
from the Gary Rosenthal Collection
Wednesday, October 14 and Sunday, October 18We are bringing back the Gary Rosenthal
Collection!! On Wednesday, October 14 and Sunday, October 18, Temple Sinai invites you to create your own mosaic masterpiece using Gary Rosenthal’s brilliantly colored glass pieces. Your mosaic will be sent to Gary’s studio where it will be fired and returned to you in time for Chanukah.
Gary has been sculpting in welded metals for over 30 years. He creates one of the most popular and unique lines of Judaic art in the country by combining copper, brass and steel with brilliant fused glass.
Mazal Tov…to Judge Rich Gabriel who was just appointed
to the Colorado Supreme Court!to Bryan and Melyssa Zive on the birth of their
son, Hayden Michael Zive!to Jon Tandler who was named as the Chair of
the Board for Food Bank of the Rockiesto Linda and Reid Goodman and Phyllis
Goodman on the birth of their newest grandson/great-grandson, Yossi Benjamin Goodman, born Friday, August 7, 2015 in Melbourne, Australia. He is the brother of Shaylee and Zev Goodman.
Sinai Sundays
Sinai Sundays begin in November.
Classes include: Adult B’nei
Mitzvah Class (Cantor Sheila Nesis and Rabbi Susan Rheins)
Exploring the Teachings and the World of the Talmud: Part 2 (Rabbi Rick Rheins)
Conversational Hebrew (Nevet Montgomery)Space is limited. Contact Lisa Thorner at
303-759-1827 or [email protected] for more information and to reserve your place.
Religious School News
Our Youth
Michelle Schwartz Director of
Religious School Education
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As we approach the New Year, we are often thinking about resolutions. When the secular New Year arrives each January first, we are flooded with ads, commercials, friends and family all setting their resolutions for the upcoming year. Does that mean that as Jewish people we get to do this twice: once now during Rosh HaShanah and once again on January first? I recently read an article that was encouraging the reader to slow down and reflect on their lives before trying to set a goal. It occurred to me that the purpose of Rosh HaShanah and the Days of Awe leading up to Yom Kippur are there for us to do just that. We have the chance to slow down and reflect. Instead of using this New Year for resolutions, what if we use it for reflection? As the more relaxed days of summer have come to an end, new routines take over and our schedules begin to rule the house. I am hoping to make room in the life of my family to contemplate the things we are actively involved in and set some priorities for us to work toward. Maybe some of those thoughts will become New Year’s resolutions or goals for the year but maybe they won’t and will have just been an exercise in being present and thoughtful about the things we choose to do as a family. Either way, I am feeling grateful that the High Holy Days give us the gift of time for reflection and the opportunity to move into the year with greater intention.
L’Shanah Tovah!Michelle Schwartz
Registration Time!
Classes Start September 20th
B’nei Mitzvah
Micah KretchmerSeptember 26
Micah is the son of Zack and Lindy Kretchmer and the brother of twins, Nate and Josh (10). He is a student at Campus Middle School and enjoys hockey and soccer. For his Mitzvah Project, Micah volunteers with A Precious Child sorting clothing and filling backpacks with school supplies of the Fill A Backpack program. He also sorted sports equipment for the giveSports program.
B’nei Mitzvah 2017 Dates Selection Request Forms NOW AVAILABLEIf you have a child who will turn 13 (or older) in 2016 or 2017 and you do not yet have a reserved date
for a service, please call Cantor Sheila Nesis at our Temple Sinai office. We’ll answer all your questions and help you find a date that works for your family.
Date selection forms are also available in the Temple Sinai office or can be mailed directly to you.
to Rabbi Susan Rheins for the excellent work on the Eastern Europe trip.
to Mindy and Adam Cohen for the beautiful yad they brought back from Israel and gave to Temple Sinai.
Todah Rabbah…
to Marie Gordon and Robyn Levy who delivered 24 backpacks with grade-level supplies to Brown Elementary in northwest Denver. This project was sponsored by the members of Temple Sinai’s 2014 Israel tour group with Family Rheins:
Robyn and Andy Levy; Susan and Joe Epstein; Mike and Sandy Korn; the Rheins family; Michelle and Gary Reiff; Barb and Mark Lettes; Cass Robbins and Herb Josepher; Judi and Rocco Dodson; Terri Tillis and Stacey Pocrass; Jerry and Natalie Lassow; Mike and Kathy Grazi; Lisa Myers; and Ann and Bill Levis.
Preschool News
Shannon Morgione Preschool Director
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Our Youth
Early Bird Hours!
To help our working
families, we open at
7:00 a.m.!
Temple Sinai Preschool and Kindergarten Academy still has a few spaces available for your children, grandchildren, neighbor’s children, and all the young people in your lives for the 2015-2016 school year.
We provide an emotionally responsive, developmentally-appropriate program, based on Jewish values and principles, as well as best practices in early childhood education. Our approach is based on a strong image of the child, where parents are respected as their child’s first teacher. We genuinely involve parents in every aspect of their child’s experience.
At Temple Sinai Preschool, we challenge our students to engage creatively, while exploring their spirit of inquiry. Viewing the teacher and child as co-learners, our staff uses their knowledge of emotional, social, cognitive, and physical development to enhance the growth of each child. We create a warm and respectful social environment guided by emotionally responsive practices, modeling positive relationships, and valuing the individuality of each child.
Currently offered Preschool & Kindergarten programs:
• Parent Tot• Toddlers (must 18 months)• Two-Year Old Program• Pre-Kindergarten Program• Private Kindergarten (Licensed teacher in the state of Colorado)Special afternoon programming:• Cultural Arts: Soccer, Music, Yoga, Drama, Physical Education – Fun and Frolic• DZ Sector (Discovery Zone) Beaker Buddies (science) & Artists in Residence (art)• Pint-Sized Chefs (cooking)Child Care: • Early Bird (7:00 – 9:00 a.m.)• Extended Care (3:00 – 6:00 p.m.)We have something for everyone. Why not
call today and begin your child’s educational journey? We look forward to meeting you.
Welcome to Our New Members!Christina Friedman Noah (5) and Hannah (2)Joan & Bernie BubDon & Ginni FreedbergMitch KraytonEmily Ganan Sophie (7)
Steve RosensteinBrittney Theberge Miyka (2)Micheal & Karen HymanMichelle & David Cagwin Ethan (9), Hannah (7) & Clara (1)
12
Julia Teitell Director of Youth
Engagement
Parent VolunteersWant to get
involved in our Youth Group community?
Want to help out with programs or behind-the-scenes
Emails & More InformationSend Julia an email with your child’s name and grade and you will be added to the email list to
get Youth Group updates. ALSO! Check out our Facebook page for updates…
www.facebook.com/TempleSinaiYouthPrograms
Youth Programs
A CLOSER LOOK!Check out the indescribable experience of IST …
Eric Simon, 12th gradeIsrael Study Tour, 2015
The hardest thing I have realized since coming back from IST (Israel Study Tour) is talking about it. It is extremely difficult to do because I can’t ever find the correct words to describe IST. How can someone find the words to describe what it was like to be with 72 other people for 36 days in a different country? It is impossible to describe because nothing I can say will ever do it justice. IST was truly remarkable. It was life changing. It was truly something that everyone should experience. I went into IST knowing only a
handful of people and I left IST with a family of 86. How can I put all of our experiences into words? The truth is I can’t; however, all I can say is that IST is something I will never forget and that it is something all parents should send their kids on because they won’t regret it.
Sinai at Shwayder Camp
TSYG (9 th-12 th Grade) Upcoming Programs Fall Rush Saturday, September 12 Kick off the year with TSYG’s Fall Rush: Broomball! Junior Congregation Help us lead the 3rd-5th graders in a High Holy Day experience, including services and programming! See the schedule below… September 2 : Picking Parts September 9 : Rosh HaShanah Rehearsal September 16: Yom Kippur Rehearsal Regional Events Western Fall Chavurah September 25-27, 2015 Join us for the first Missouri Valley Chavurah of the year at Shwayder Camp! “Pizza in the Lounge” 6th-12th graders, come hang out, eat dinner, catch up with friends and play in the Youth Lounge from 5:30-6:15 pm. The cost is only $5! Buy a Pizza Punch Card online and get one night for FREE! Fall Semester Dates: 09/21, 10/19, 11/09, 12/07
JYG (6 th-8 th Grade) Upcoming Programs JYG at Jumpstreet Sunday, September 27 Kick off the year by bouncing of the walls with JYG at Jumpstreet. Ruach (3 rd-5 th Grade) Upcoming Programs: Sunday , September 27 Our first Ruach program will take place on Sunday, September 27. Meretz (K-2nd Grade) Upcoming Programs:
Sunday , September 27 Our first Meretz program will take place on Sunday, September 27.
Set your legacy in stone and show your pride in our amazing community by purchasing a personalized, engraved brick that will be beautifully displayed outside our main building, seen for
years to come. The inscriptions you choose can be as simple as your name(s) or it can commemorate a life-cycle event, honor the memory of a loved one, honor parents, friends, a special birthday or anniversary--whatever is meaningful to you. We want to give every member an opportunity to be a part of this special project that will be a permanent testament of our commitment to the future of Temple Sinai and the Jewish people. Bricks will be available for purchase beginning September 1, 2015. Examples : We love Temple Sinai Mazel Tov Hannah In Memory ofThe Jones Family On Your Bat Mitzvah Arnold Singer z"l Jon and Kim The Goldberg Family Beloved Father Please return this form along with a check payable to Temple Sinai to the Temple office or purchase on-line at www.sinaidenver.org/brickproject.
City, State, Zip ____________________________________________________
Phone ___________________________ Email ________________________ Name on Card: ___________________________________________________ Credit Card No. ___________________________________________________ Exp. Date _____________________ Security Code _____________________ Please enter wording exactly as you would like it to appear on your brick (20 character maximum per line-including spaces). 1. ______________________________________________________________ 2. ______________________________________________________________
3. ______________________________________________________________ For additional information, please contact Amy Rittenberg at [email protected] or Lisa Thorner at [email protected] or (303) 759-1827.
Building Our Future FundIn Honor ofDorothy Flax Vicki CramerAllan Striker Bud & Marilyn HymanBuilding Our Future Charles ShomIn Memory ofRoslyn Lustig Lorraine SolomonShirley Sweet Thomas & Marsha SweetJeannette Grunfeld & Ella Eugene & Bunny ColeLinda Krayton Mitchell KraytonIrwin Suson Ben & Robyn FriedmanAbe Kerstein Dr. Stanley & Susan KersteinMax Kaitz Art & Marilyn WolfsonMaurice Pollet Andrew & Cynthia PolletDorothy Dickstein Irwin & Ina DicksteinBella Arent Fred & Doris Schwartzberg
Cohen Family B’nei Mitzvah Book FundIn Honor ofJeff & Jay Cohen on their 60th Birthdays Jerry & Pearl Naiman
General Fund Max & Elaine AppelIn Honor ofIna Cherington & Phil Braunstein Libby MarcusIn Memory ofPaula Bride Daisy FlynnArthur F Shenkin Frank & Dena SchneiderOscar Jonas, Samuel Jonas & Henry Boehm Sam & Carol JonasArt Shenkin Barbara GoldburgMorris Breggin Jody & Janie BravermanAlbert & Shirley Sorkin Dr. Marc & Laurie SorkinSam Kaminsky David & Sandy KaminskyRobert Sunshine Jim Wilson & Cathy SunshineThinking ofBarbara Glassman Libby Marcus
Ilene Shiroff Memorial FundIn Memory ofIlene Shiroff Dorothy RosenblattHerbert H. Vean Wendy VeanThinking ofMarvin Zeldin Wendy Vean
Jewish Education FundIn Memory ofHarry Schneiderman Steve Clark & Paula SchneidermanPhyllis Paper Jan Fisher
Julius & Helen Ring Israel Teen Scholarship FundIn Honor ofPhil Braunstein’s 80th birthday Ralph & Fran SternMatt Ball being named a 2015 Pat Tillman Scholar Gary & Lin SunshineJamie Sarche being appointed to the Denver Commission on Aging Gary & Lin SunshineRabbi Keren Gorban Gary & Lin SunshineRabbi Susan Miller Rheins Gary & Lin SunshineRich Gabriel being appointed to the Colorado Supreme Court Gary & Lin SunshineBirth of Isabelle Mayim Glatstein Mollo Gary & Lin SunshineSandy Vicksman David, Wendy, Jessica & Melissa
DworkinIn Memory ofBarry Marquit Dr. Mel & Roberta KleinRose Miriam Rosenfeld Dr. Ed & Debby RosenfeldMichael Nowak, Emil L. Cohen, Bernice K. Cohen, David Gordon Daniel & Rabbi Bruce Cohen Nancy NowakWalter Karpel Gary & Lin SunshineJerome Ginsberg Gary & Lin SunshineMolly Ginsberg Gary & Lin SunshineClara Zive Gary & Lin Sunshine
Gifts & Contributions
Contributions
We Gratefully Acknowledge
Your Generous Contributions
Contributions
14
Contributions
Jason McKain Gary & Lin SunshineLawrence Klein Gary & Lin SunshineThe nine lives taken in South Carolina Gary & Lin SunshineAlfred Abraham Simson Dr. Jean GutheryLaurena Van De Polder Dr. Jean GutheryThinking ofIna Cherington Ralph & Fran SternJere Ross Gary & Lin Sunshine
Music FundIn Memory ofAllison Kleiner Richard & Judith KleinerEva Landsberg Andrea Forlina
Preschool Underwriting FundDonation by Dr. Ed & Debby Rosenfeld
Rabbi Richard Rheins Discretionary Fund Jeff LavenharIn Honor ofOur new office James & Jane ScottNaming of granddaughter, Henley Len & Sharon BirnbaumRabbi Rick Rheins The Shaner FamilyTom Ruha’s Special Birthday Paul & Susan LevineBirth of Matt & Marie Gordon’s Grandson Leo Paul & Susan LevineRabbis Rick & Susan Rheins Ed & Marilyn PepperRabbi Rick Rheins Andy & Robyn LevyIn Memory ofIssie Mintz & Leon Mason Don & Mimi KrakowskiMolly Glass Debra FrankWalter Karpel Renee Cohn-KarpelLouise Zeidman Bart & Barb VallsLeon Mason Don & Mimi KrakowskiLawrence Klein Paul & Susan LevineWalter Karpel Paul & Susan LevineAbe Pine Cohen Steve & Mitzi KurtzPeter Guthery Peter & Donna ShaftKen Long Peter & Donna ShaftFrederick Thompson & Ronald Thompson Jim, Lisa, Rachael & Jessica
ThompsonAbe Goldhirsch Dan & Susan RichLawrence Klein Brad & Debbie UnkelessNancy Miles The Miles FamilyIrene Braunstein Smolev Philip Braunstein & Ina CheringtonArthur F Shenkin Gerre ShenkinArthur F Shenkin Ed & Marilyn PepperThinking ofSteve Berkowitz Paul & Susan Levine
Rabbi Susan Rheins Discretionary FundIn Honor ofRabbi Susan Rheins The Shaner FamilyDick Wisott receiving the Minoru Yasui Award Fred & Lois MargolinRabbi Susan Rheins John & Lori SpanbauerIn Memory ofCecilia Mattson Roselle D. Leviton
Rabbi Zwerin Discretionary FundIn Memory ofLeon Trasen Ben & Dee TrasenSigmund Lazarus Dr. Jeremy & Debbie LazarusDavid Ledden Bob & Carole Cantor AdelsteinIrving & Marian Nogg Bob & Carole Cantor Adelstein
Religious School FundIn Memory ofWalter Karpel Melvin Coffee & Gloria “Gitti” WeissSarah Lazarus Dr. Jeremy & Debbie Lazarus
Sisterhood FundIn Memory ofFrank Kitchin & Pearl Gray Steve & Nancy Letman
Teacher Education FundIn Memory ofMarilyn Klein Audrey Marcus
Temple’s ChoiceIn Memory ofHerman Austin & Ben Perlmutter Richard & Ellene AustinMary B Weitzman Jim Rubin & Faye WeitzmanAlexander Shefrin William & Sandra ShefrinFrank Landie William & Sandra Shefrin
We Care/Social Action FundIn Memory ofMinnette Lowen Randy & Lois Arlen
In MemoriamIrv Zwick, Brother in Law of Carol (Marshall) Tobin and Mort LesserEdward McCaffery IV, Nephew of Jeffery (Kia) KofronHeinz (Hy) J. Ratsch, Father of Sheila (Wayne) Lepkin, Grandfather of Aaron and Simon LepkinGeorge Rosenthal, Husband of Judee Rosenthal, Father of Emily Rosenthal & Ruby (Jon) Falk
Men Talking Torah with Rabbi RheinsNext Session is
Wednesday, October 14, 6:00 p.m.Darcy’s Pub in the DTC
S. Ulster St. between Union and BelleviewNo RSVP Needed!
Bible, Beers & Brotherhood
Adult B’nei Mitzvah Class to Start This Fall!
If you never have had the joy and thrill of accomplishment of leading a Shabbat service and reading from the Torah as a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, now is the time! Starting this fall, Temple Sinai will once again offer its fabulous Adult B’nei Mitzvah class. Those who need to learn Hebrew will start first and then will be joined by those who already have some Hebrew skills. Eventually, all will learn together with the Rabbis and Cantor in order to prepare for their special Shabbat service and celebration. If you are interested, please contact Lisa Thorner at 303-759-1827 or [email protected]. More details will be released ASAP.
26 � NFTY MV Fall Chavurah � 9:00am Shabbat Morning
Minyan � 10:30am B/M M
Kretchmer � 10:30am Torah Study
22 � Kol Nidre - Offices close
at 12:30 p.m. � Preschool Closes at
12:30 p.m. � 7:00pm Kol Nidre
Services
23 � Yom Kippur - Offices
Closed � Preschool Closed
24 � 7:00pm AA/AL-Anon
Meeting
25 � NFTY MV Fall Chavurah � 7:00pm Erev Shabbat
Service
4 � 6:00pm Kabbalat
Shabbat
18 � 7:00pm Erev Shabbat
Service
27 � NFTY MV Fall Chavurah � 9:00am - 1:00pm
Shred a Thon � 9:00am Religious School � 9:00am Religious School
Parent Bagel & Coffee
� 12:00pm Meretz � 12:00pm Ruach � 12:30pm JYG at
Jumpstreet � 6:00pm Erev Sukkot
Service
28 � Sukkot - Offices closed � Preschool Closed � 10:00am Sukkot Service � 6:15pm Religious School � 6:15pm Religious School
9th Grade Family Program
� 6:15pm Religious School 11th & 12th Grade Opening Program
� 6:30pm Mental Wellness Matters
29 � Sukkot
30 � Sukkot � 11:00am Book Group � 6:00pm Religious School � 6:30pm Board Of
Trustees Meeting
11 � 5:30pm New Chapel
Naming & Dedication
� 7:00pm Erev Shabbat Service
7 � Labor Day - Offices
Closed � Preschool Closed
September � Religious School � Programming � Meeting � Preschool
� Service � Youth � Holiday
Yom Kippur: Wednesday, September 23 Tot Service 8:00 a.m. 0 – 5 years old & their familiesTot Program 8:30 a.m. 2 – 5 years oldK-2 Youth Experience 8:30 a.m. K – 2nd gradeJunior Congregation 8:30 a.m. 3rd – 5th gradeMain Service - Early 8:30 a.m. Main Service - Late 11:45 a.m. Alternative Service 11:45 a.m. Young Family Service 2:45 p.m. K – 2nd grades & their familiesDiscussion 2:45 p.m. Afternoon Service 3:45 p.m. Yizkor Service 5:15 p.m. Neilah Service 6:15 p.m. Build the Sukkah 6:45 p.m. Break-the-Fast 7:00 p.m.
Erev Sukkot: Sunday, September 27 Service 6:00 p.m.Sukkot: Monday, September 28Service 10:00 a.m.Shemini Atzeret & Simchat Torah:Erev Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah: Sunday, October 4Service 6:00 p.m. Celebration 7:00 p.m.
Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah (w/Yizkor): Monday, October 5 Service 10:00 a.m.
High Holy Day Service Schedule 5776/2015
Selichot: Saturday, September 5 Program at 7:00 p.m. followed by Selichot Service
Erev Rosh HaShanah: Sunday, September 13 Main Service 8:00 p.m.
1st Day Rosh HaShanah: Monday, September 14 Tot Service 8:00 a.m. 0 – 5 years old & their familiesTot Program 8:30 a.m. 2 – 5 years oldK-2 Youth Experience 8:30 a.m. K – 2nd gradeJunior Congregation 8:30 a.m. 3rd – 5th gradeMain Service - Early 8:30 a.m. Main Service - Late 11:45 a.m. Alternative Service 11:45 a.m. Young Family Service 4:30 p.m. K-2 families at Westlands Park Tashlich 5:15 p.m. At Westlands Park 2nd Day Rosh HaShanah: Tuesday, September 15 Main Service 10:00 a.m. Cemetery Memorial Services: Sunday, September 20Fairmount 10:30 a.m.; Mt. Nebo 11:30 a.m.; Rose Hill 12:30 p.m.
Kol Nidre: Tuesday, September 22 Main Service 7:00 p.m. Alternative Service 7:00 p.m.
TEMPLE SINAI 3509 S. Glencoe Street Denver, CO 80237-1018 303-759-1827 www.sinaidenver.org
Non-Profit Organization U.S Postage
PAID Denver, CO Permit No.
4470
Richard S. Rheins, Senior Rabbi Rabbi Susan Miller Rheins Raymond A. Zwerin, Rabbi Emeritus Sheila Nesis, CantorAmy Becker, Executive Director Lisa Thorner, Director of Programming and Member Engagement Cindy Abramson, Communications Director Debbie Kohn, Operations Coordinator Diana Kaplan, Administrative Assistant Lin Sunshine, Executive Assistant to Clergy Michelle Schwartz, MARE, Director of Religious School EducationShauna Diner, Religious School Assistant Julia Teitell, Director of Youth EngagementFrances Pearson, CPA, Controller Kelly Nicholas, BookkeeperShannon Morgione, M. Ed., Preschool Director Marissa Vaughn, Assistant Preschool Director
Board of TrusteesWendy Vean, President Susan Epstein, Past PresidentLarry Jacobson, Vice PresidentKaren Kaplan, SecretaryGordan Post, Vice PresidentEd Schenkein, TreasurerMichelle Weinraub, Vice President
Trustees:Grace Bach, Jennifer Feingold, Lane Feingold, David Frieder, Sherri Kononov, Sandy Korn, Larry Mogolov, Ralph Powell, Amy Rittenberg, Allan Striker, Jeff Weinberg, Josh Zucker
ex officio, Lin SunshineShirley Beer Powell, Sisterhood PresidentPaul Levine, Brotherhood PresidentEmma Hope, TSYG President
Staff & Board
Monday, October 19 at 6:00 p.m.
A Parent’s Personal Story – As an introduction to the presentation, a parent shares her retrospective story of her son’s struggle with mental illness and the early warning signs that she didn't recognize.
Mental Disorders: Facts, Statistics & Biology – In a logical and digestible way, a pediatrician explains important facts and statistics about our youths' brains and how mental illness is based in biology.
Substance Abuse Disorder and Your Child – A substance abuse expert explains the dangers of the substances our youth are exposed to in today’s society, plus signs and symptoms to look out for that your child may have substance abuse issues. If you think this doesn't apply to your children, you will be shocked!
Identifying Unhealthy Adolescent Behavior – A professional counselor explains the signs of symptoms to look out for in children that may indicate there is a mental wellness issue. She also explains the range and types of professional help available alongside self-help techniques.
Mental Wellness Resource Fair - Learn more about local resources available to help youth with mental health concerns, meet and talk one-on-one with mental health professionals and other community experts, and discover how you can access resources, with or without insurance.
Free and open to the community. RSVP required at sinaidenver.org/HealingOurYouth. Limited space available.
For more information, go to www.HealingOurYouth.orgor contact Cindy Abramson at [email protected]
