Shabbat NoachFri. Nov. 4 6 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat ServiceFri. Nov. 4 6 p.m. Tot Shabbat and DinnerSat. Nov. 5 10.30 a.m. Shabbat ServiceSat. Nov. 5 10.30 a.m. Family Shabbat Service
For High Holy Day and Festival information, please refer to pages 4 and 6.
Pulpit exchange: What I Believe and Why
Rabbi John Moscowitz — Sat. Nov. 5, 2005, at 9 a.m., Adath Israel Congregation
Rabbi Steven Saltzman — Sat. Dec. 3, 2005, at 10.30 a.m., Holy Blossom Temple
On Shabbat morning, Nov. 5, Rabbi John Moscowitz will be the guest preacher at Adath Israel Congregation and speak abouthis personal theology. This will be followed by lunch with Rabbi Moscowitz and Rabbi Steven Saltzman, to which all are invitedto continue the discussion. Then, on Shabbat morning, Dec. 3, Rabbi Saltzman will address this topic at Holy Blossom Temple,followed by lunch with Rabbi Moscowitz and Rabbi Saltzman, to which all are invited. Pre-registration required. Please callTania Blumenthal (ext. 246), at the Temple, or e-mail [email protected] for more details and cost.
October 2005 3 Elul 5765/ Tishrei 5766
In Perspectiveby Rabbi John Moscowitz
Now in God’s presence
Mon. Nov. 7, 2005, at 8 p.m.
The 2005 W. Gunther Plaut Humanitarian Award will be presented to Lieutenant-GeneralRoméo A. Dallaire. The Award is bestowed every two years on a person who has made an out-standing contribution to the community and to human rights. Dallaire’s courage, self-sacrificeand dedication to world peace saved the lives of thousands of Rwandans in 1994, when he ledthe United Nations mission in Rwanda. He is currently pursuing a Fellowship at the Carr Cen-ter for Human Rights Policy, at the John F. Kennedy School of Government, HarvardUniversity, where he continues his studies on conflict resolution.Introduction: John Fraser, Master, Massey College, University of Toronto
The W. Gunther Plaut Humanitarian Award
Roméo A. Dallaire
On the High Holy Days, we may
wish to hide or not. But either
way, ours is a world view that
believes that God does take
note of us.
At no other time ofthe year as on thesecoming Days of Awe,are we aware of beingso close to God andyet so removed from
ourselves. It is almost as if we stand in thevery presence of God — we who believeand we who do not and we who are notsure.
At all other times of the year — Pesach,Shavuot and Sukkot — our history speaksto us and almost for us. We come out ofEgypt; we hear the Torah; we are sojourn-ers in the desert.
But not on the High Holy Days. Weface God on these days in the context ofcommunity, true — but on our own: byour own reckoning, by virtue of our owndeeds. We are known to God now, notmediated by the events of history, butthrough the acts of this past year thatshape the very quality of our souls.
“Mibsarcha lo titalem” — You shallnot hide from your own flesh, you shall nothide from who you are in your very essence.This is the imperative of this moment.
If we are close to God on the High HolyDays, it is, ironically, in part because we are
is made up: that it has meaning; that weare important; that we are noticed.
Or to put it differently, everythingwhich makes up human experienceand human history must be somethingother than, as Macbeth put it, “A taletold by an idiot, full of sound and fury,signifying nothing.”
For underneath everything — whatcompels and what bores, what distractsand what rivets — the world is guidedby the moral rules of a moral Judge.And therefore what befalls us — forgood and for bad — is in some wayrelated to what we do.
Maybe not today and maybe nottomorrow, but when we do good thereis an ultimate accounting and a finalreward; and when we do evil thereis, maybe not today and maybe nottomorrow, an accounting and somekind of punishment. We may neversee it. It may even be better that it isnot in our hands. But Judaism believesthis and nothing affirms it more thanthe Days of Awe.
For Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippurteach that the world coheres becauseGod judges, even if we don’t fully under-stand the judgement; that God notices,even if we don’t realize it; that wemortals, Jew and non-Jew alike, matter.Could anything be more important?
removed from ourselves: God knows usbecause we confess what we would preferto hide — the very sins that put us at somedistance from ourselves.
But what does this actually mean forus? Are we really noticed? Do we reallymatter?
In that regard, a story is told of theRishiner Rebbe, who when he camehome one day, noted that his little boywas crying. He asked his son why, andthe boy answered, “Because I have beenplaying hide and seek.”
“But that’s no reason to cry,” said theRebbe.
“It is Papa. I was hiding, but nobodywas seeking.”
On the High Holy Days, we may wishto hide or not. But either way, ours is aworld view that believes that God doestake note of us. That God is a Judge whocares and notices — and wants us to dolikewise. Particularly to see how the world
First Day Rosh Hashanah — Tue. Oct. 4First Service 8.30 a.m. Sanctuary
Early Family Service 8.30 a.m. Philip Smith Congregational Hall
Second Service 11.15 a.m. Sanctuary/Philip Smith Congregational Hall
Late Family Service 11.15 a.m. Maurice N. Eisendrath Auditorium/Youth Chapel
Children’s Service 1.30 p.m.* Philip Smith Congregational Hall
(for children who do not yet read)
Second Day Rosh Hashanah — Wed. Oct. 5Service 10 a.m. Sanctuary
Kol Nidre — Wed. Oct. 12First Service 6 p.m. Sanctuary/Philip Smith Congregational Hall
Family Service 6 p.m. Maurice N. Eisendrath Auditorium/Youth Chapel
Second Service 9 p.m. Sanctuary/Philip Smith Congregational Hall
Teen Service 9 p.m. Max. E. Enkin Board Room
Yom Kippur — Thur. Oct. 13Early Family Service 8.30 a.m. Maurice N. Eisendrath Auditorium/Youth Chapel
Morning Service 10 a.m. Sanctuary/Philip Smith Congregational Hall
Late Family Service 11 a.m. Maurice N. Eisendrath Auditorium/Youth Chapel/
Activity Room
Generation t Service 11 a.m.* Max. E. Enkin Board Room
(for 20 and 30 somethings)
Study Sessions 1.30 to 3 p.m.* (See box on next page for details.)
Children’s Service 1.30 p.m.* Philip Smith Congregational Hall
(for children who do not yet read)
Afternoon and Yizkor Services 3.30 p.m. Sanctuary/Philip Smith Congregational Hall
Ne’ilah Service 6 p.m. (approx) Sanctuary/Philip Smith Congregational Hall
* Please note new times.
High Holy Days 2005/5766 at Holy Blossom Temple
October 2005 5 Elul 5765/ Tishrei 5766
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into all bags, purses or packagesbrought into the Temple. Please helpus by arriving early to allow extra timefor security procedures.
Special needsIf you require special seating or reservedparking (for those with handicappedpermits only), please call ext. 516, at theTemple, to make arrangements. Large-print prayer books and hearing devicesare available in the office before eachService begins.
State of Israel Bond andDouble MitzvahThis year, the State of Israel Bond cardswill be included with your High HolyDays tickets. Please remember to bringthe card to the Temple for Services on KolNidre. (See back page for more details.)
Here’s what’s new and important this yearFamily ServicesDue to the high demand for the LateFamily Services on both days and tobe fair to our congregants with youngchildren, you may choose to cometo either the Late Service on RoshHashanah and the Early Service onYom Kippur, or the Early Serviceon Rosh Hashanah and the LateService on Yom Kippur. Tickets willbe allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Children’s ServicesAfternoon Children’s Services onRosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur arefor children who do not yet read.This year, children who read areinvited to join their families at ourFamily Services throughout the HighHoly Days. Children of any age are
welcome to attend the Ne’ilah Servicein the Philip Smith CongregationalHall at the close of Yom Kippur(approximately 6 p.m.). BYOS —bring your own shofar, if you have one.
Take-a-Break roomsTake-a-Break rooms will be availableduring all High Holy Day Servicesto provide you with a place to takeyour child to play or read if he orshe becomes restless during a Service.Parents must remain with their childrenin this room to provide supervision.
Tickets and securityTickets will be required for all Services,including Second Day Rosh Hashanah.Those without tickets will not be admit-ted to the Temple. Again this year, wewill be checking each ticket and looking
Intelligent Design:
Is it Science, Religion
or Neither
Rabbi Edward Goldfarb
Max. E. Enkin Board Room
How the Talmudic
Rabbis Turned Judaism
Upside Down: Tractate
Yoma
Rabbi Michael Stroh
Rabbi Emeritus, Temple Har Zion
Maurice N. Eisendrath
Auditorium
Oz’s Confession: a Tale
of Love and Darkness
Robin Roger
Writer, Editor and Psychotherapist
Activity Room
After the Tsunami and
New Orleans: Arguing
with God
Evan Solomon
CBC TV Broadcaster, Journalist
and Author
Youth Chapel
Yom Kippur Study Sessions
Thur. Oct. 13, 2005, 1.30 to 3 p.m.
Holy Blossom Temple 6
SukkotSukkotSukkotSukkotSukkot
Sukkah DecoratingSun. Oct. 16, at 12.15 p.m.Fun for the whole family. Help buildand decorate the Temple’s sukkah.
Erev Sukkot ServiceMon. Oct. 17, at 6 p.m.
Congregation-wideSukkot Morning ServiceTue. Oct. 18, at 10 a.m.Bring your lulav and etrog. Singing,creative Torah study and child care willbe integrated throughout the morning.After the Service, enjoy a festive lunchwith the synagogue community.
Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah 2005/5766
Sukkot is the seven-day festival celebrating the fall harvest by waving lulav (palm/myrtle/willow) and etrog (citron) and bydwelling in sukkot (booths). Shemini Atzeret is the day after Sukkot, when prayers that the rainy season will return to the landof Israel are offered together with the Yizkor (Memorial) Service. Simchat Torah is the joyful holiday marking the completionof the annual cycle of reading Torah. Dancing shoes are required.
Erev Shemini Atzeret ServiceMon. Oct. 24, at 6 p.m.
Congregation-wide SheminiAtzeret/Yizkor ServiceTue. Oct. 25, at 10 a.m.Children’s programs and child carewill be provided. A special luncheonwill follow the Service.
Flag MakingTue. Oct. 25, at 6 p.m.A must for all young children!
Consecration on Simchat TorahTue. Oct. 25, at 6.20 p.m.Holy Blossom Temple will hold Consecra-tion on Simchat Torah. The joy of ourcelebration of Torah will be multipliedwith the ruach of our Grade 1 studentsdancing with their new scrolls. Please seepage 13 for more details.
Simchat Torah Service andCelebrationTue. Oct. 25, at 7 p.m.Join us for a jubilant evening of rejoicingwith the Torah to conclude our TishreiHoly Days. We will dance the night awaywith Judy and David Gershon’s band. Aspecial invitation goes out to all CampGeorge campers and staff.
Z’man Simchateinu ... Season of our RejoicingZ’man Simchateinu ... Season of our Rejoicing
— through three millennia, it is respon-sible for holding the Jewish People togetherthrough unspeakable hardship and dispersalto the four corners of the earth. Althoughthe Torah’s text is ancient, those whostudy it are able to find new insight andinspiration each time they read the sacredscrolls.
We want every member of HolyBlossom Temple to hear the amazingstory of the Torah, feel his or her ownconnection to its power and experiencethe beauty of its verse. That is why wehave undertaken Torat Chayim: The SeferTorah Project. Through it, we will bedoing much more than writing a newSefer Torah for our synagogue. We willbe giving everyone in our congregationa chance to view the Torah in an entirelynew light.
Our Sefer Torah project will officiallybe launched during our celebration ofSimchat Torah in 2006, when we mark thecompletion of one year’s cycle of readingthe Torah and the beginning of the next.Soon after, we will all bear witness as ourscribe dips his quill into ink and carefully
writes the first letter of our Torah on ablank piece of parchment: Bereshit,meaning “In the beginning” — and whata beginning it will be! It will take almosta year for our Torah to be written, the veryyear that Holy Blossom Temple will becelebrating its 150th anniversary as acongregation. How appropriate, therefore,that the centerpiece of our 150th anniversarycelebrations will be the Sefer Torah project.
During our anniversary year, ToratChayim will play a part in every aspectof Temple life and everyone in the congre-gation will have many opportunitiesto participate. By supporting this effortto create a new Torah, we will be able tosee ourselves reflected in the finishedproduct and define our own personalJewish legacies.
Torah is alive and well after 3000 years150th Anniversaryby Henrietta Chesnie, Chair, 150th AnniversaryCommittee
October 2005 7 Elul 5765/ Tishrei 5766
Family Programming 2005Do we have your e-mail?Family Programming wants to let you know what’s going on, and e-mail is the perfect way. If the Temple has your e-mailaddress, we will send you our monthly listing of what’s happening. If you haven’t received an e-mail from us yet, sendone to [email protected], and we’ll get you on the list. (Don’t worry — no spam. It isn’t kosher.)
Tot Shabbat ServicesOct. 21 Tot Shabbat and DinnerNov. 4 Tot ShabbatNov. 18 Gesher (See articlebelow for details.)
Sukkah PartySun. Oct. 23, at 12.30 p.m.As the stars come out, the partybegins. Enjoy music, stories, gamesand lots of food — all in our veryown sukkah. To RSVP, call OliviaD’Souza (ext. 260), at the Temple.
No matter what yourage, we have a way foryou to pray. Our spe-cial Services gearedtoward families allowyou to pray with oth-
ers in an environment that’s warm andfriendly and comfortable for all.
Tot ShabbatDo you want to teach your kids howwonderful Shabbat is? Then join otherfamilies for Tot Shabbat. Twice a month,we gather for a Service that teaches ourkids the joy of Shabbat. We incorporatemusic, prayer, stories, crafts and more tomake Friday night the highlight of theweek and an evening the kids love.
Once a month, we follow up the Ser-vice with a dinner. For a small fee, weprovide the chicken and guests bring aside dish. Not only do the kids have fun,
by Rabbi Jason Rosenberg
Family Worshipand not only do you get to spend sometime meeting the other families, but you getto be part of the easiest Shabbat dinner ever!To RSVP for a dinner, call Olivia D’Souza(ext. 260), at the Temple.
GesherNew this year, we’re holding a Service thatintroduces families to Kabbalat Shabbat.Three times this year, our Tot Shabbatregulars can learn what it’s like to be a partof our regular Friday Night Services, but ina setting that’s perfect for young families. Ifyou’ve ever thought of joining us upstairson Friday night, but weren’t sure what itwas like, then this Service is for you!
Family ServicesShabbat isn’t just for kids, and neither areour Family Shabbat Services. This weeklyService is a full Service — one that speaksto the parents, but is completely kid-friendly. Music throughout engages old andyoung alike. While kids of all ages get in-volved, we also have a break room for those
who need a change of scenery, plus specialactivities for the kids during the TorahService.
The parents get to enjoy an interactivetext study and discussion, while the kidslearn Torah their own way. And, of course,there’s food afterwards — a kiddush andlunch, which gives the kids some time toplay, and the parents lots of time to shmooze.
We’ve got fantastic music (led by DavidGershon, Mark Weinstock and others),stimulating discussion and a group of wor-shipers who make this a complete Shabbatexperience. All that’s missing is you. Join usfor Shabbat, and see how wonderfulit is to take some time each week to be to-gether, as a family, in synagogue.
A special inviteWatch your mailbox and e-mail foran invitation to join your children’sclassmates and their families at specialShabbatot. This is the perfect chanceto try out one of the best reasons to bea part of Holy Blossom Temple!
Habitat For Humanity BuildSun. Oct. 23, at 8.30 a.m.All of our families are invited to join the rest of the congregation as we builda home for a less-fortunate family. Young kids and their parents can help withregistration, lunch and more as we build. See page 8 for details.
Moms’ Night OutTue. Nov. 15, at 7.30 p.m.Just for moms — a evening of learning, discussion and food, with a greatguest speaker. Watch the Bulletin and your e-mail for details.
Holy Blossom Temple 8
Sukkot is the festival when we remember how our ancestors were homelessthroughout the 40 years of desert wanderings. And we remember the fragil-ity of life. What better time to volunteer to break the poverty cycle andhouse the homeless in our midst!
Holy Blossom Temple is pleased to participate in Habitat for Humanity’sAdopt-a-Day Challenge. Bring your steel-toed boots and your muscles totake part in this exciting initiative, which will enable a worthy family to havea place to call home.
This is a great opportunity for students to earn community service hours(must be 16 years of age or older). If you would like to be a part of the dayby helping with registration or serving lunch, we need you too.
For more details or to register, visit www.holyblossom.org, or call CynthiaSilverman (ext. 276), at the Temple. Registration is required.
Hands-on Mitzvah Project
Habitat for Humanity
150 Pinery Trail, Scarborough
(north of Hwy 401, west of Neilson Rd.)
Sun. Oct. 23, 2005, at 8.30 a.m.
Seniors’ Programming at Holy BlossomMondays @ the Templefall 2005It was great to see so many congre-gants back at our first Mondays@ the Temple program and towelcome those who joined usfor the first time. We meet eachMonday at 10 a.m., for coffeeand socializing, followed by ourprogram at 10.30 a.m., exercisesat 11.30 a.m., and lunch (hotsoup, juice, tea, coffee, cookies) at12.30 p.m. The cost for the dayis $2. For more details, please callthe Seniors’ hotline (ext. 217), atthe Temple. Please join us for the
following programs (note that wewill not be meeting on Oct. 3 and10, 2005 due to holidays):
Oct. 17 God of Our Ancestors —What Can We Believe?with Rabbi MichaelStroh, Rabbi Emeritus,Temple Har Zion
Oct. 24 Jews of old Toronto,1900–1914, with BillGladstone, Reporter,Canadian Jewish News
Oct. 31 Tales of Mystery andIntrigue, with PeggyNeedham, Storyteller
Lunch and Learn inRetirement fall 2005Please join us for excitingdaytime programming andsocializing. The group meets onalternate Wednesday afternoonsat 12 p.m. Please bring yourown dairy lunch and we willprovide coffee, tea and cookies.Cost: $1
Oct. 19 Arthritis and Aging,with June Henderson
Nov. 2 Does your Vote Count?with Larry Gordon
Day time programing
October 2005 9 Elul 5765/ Tishrei 5766
Cantor’s Notesby Cantor Benjamin Z. Maissner
Welcome Cantorial Soloist Lindi Rivers
Our Israelby Joan Garson, President, ARZA Canada
Your vote is vital
ARZA Canada, theAssociation of ReformZionists of Canada, isthe Zionist arm of theCanadian ReformMovement and an
affiliate of the Union for Reform Judaism(URJ).
ARZA Canada represents the CanadianReform community in the World ZionistCongress (WZC) in Israel, which is theWorld Zionist Organization’s (WZO)supreme institution and legislative body,meeting every four years in Jerusalem.
The success of the Reform Movement
in recent WZC elections in the UnitedStates and around the world has resultedin millions of dollars of funding for ourReform Movement in Israel, which hasbeen used for activities ranging from syna-gogues to summer camps.
Representatives of the Israel Movementfor Progressive Judaism, the ReformMovement in Israel, have visited HolyBlossom in the last few years to describethe wonderful variety of activities of thisgrowing Movement. We hope you will beable to join us in November 2005, whenleaders of that Movement will again visitToronto before the URJ Biennial in Hous-ton.
Elections for the 35th WZC will beheld around the world this winter. Thisyear, elections must also take place in
Canada. In order to vote in these elec-tions, you must be a member of ARZACanada.
By joining ARZA Canada and thenvoting in the upcoming election, you em-power the voice of Reform Jews in Israel.
If you did not join ARZA Canadawhen you renewed your Temple member-ship, forms are still available at theTemple, or by calling the CanadianCouncil for Reform Judaism (CCRJ) at(416) 630-0375.
Your vote for ARZA Canada helps ussecure significant financial and politicalsupport for Reform Judaism in Israel andaround the world. Join ARZA Canada.Then vote for our Movement, our valuesand our Israel!
Thank you for your support.
It is common knowl-edge by now that I willbe taking a sabbatical,granted to me by ourcongregation. I willmiss my congregation,
our staff, my pulpit, my music and ourprecious Temple Singers. I am looking for-ward to teaching at the Hebrew UnionCollege in Jerusalem for four months fromNov. 1, 2005 to Mar. 1, 2006, to train thefourth-year students of the School of Sa-cred Music.
It is my pleasure to introduce youto Lindi Rivers, who will join our staffas Cantorial Soloist, and who will betaking over my duties as Hazzan ofHoly Blossom Temple for the durationof my sabbatical.
I have known Lindi for many years as atrained musician — possessing a warm,beautiful voice — a compassionate humanbeing and a serious candidate for a promis-ing cantorial career. Lindi has served as acantorial soloist at Anshe Shalom Congre-gation in Hamilton, has sung as a soloist
in the Lachan Toronto Jewish ChamberChoir, and is pursuing the rigorous studiesof a Hazzan.
Together with our rabbis and seniorstaff, I am fully confident that Lindi willbe a suitable substitute for me while I amaway. I am looking forward to comingback with renewed vigour for a long stretchof good health and wonderful music.
High Holy DaysI would also liketo remind you toextend a warmwelcome to CantorRebecca Carmi,who will be oursecond cantor forthe High HolyDay Services. Youcan read moreabout her in lastmonth’s issue of the Bulletin.
Lindi Rivers
Rebecca Carmi
Holy Blossom Temple 10
The Power ofDemocracyin (Secret) ActionTue. Dec. 6
Introduction: Heather Reisman
The View from IsraelTue. Nov. 8
Introduction: Allan Gotlieb
Different Views fromWashingtonWed. Nov. 16
Introduction/Commentary:David Frum
Cautionary TalesMon. Nov. 21
Introduction:Margaret MacMillan
The Gerald Schwartz/Heather Reisman Fall 2005 Lecture Series at Holy Blossom Temple
This year’s Gerald Schwartz/HeatherReisman Lecture Series will focus ondemocratization of previously undem-ocratic or tyrannical societies, anemerging reality in several places — inthe Middle East and beyond. Some saythis is an extraordinary opportunityand a turning point in the Arab world,if not in human history. Others arguejust as fiercely that democratization isAmerican hubris at its worst, led by anAdministration that is out of control.
Our series features four of the mostcompelling and controversial voices ofour time, who will examine this explo-sive and significant issue with us.
Yossi Klein Halevi, author of At theEntrance to the Garden of Eden: A Jew’sSearch for God with Christians and Mus-
Democratization: Is it for Real?lims in the Holy Land, is one of Israel’smost articulate figures. A Senior Fellowat the Shalem Center, in Jerusalem,he is currently writing a book aboutthe Israeli paratroopers who reunitedJerusalem in 1967.
Christopher Hitchens, one of Anglo-America’s most controversial figures andsocial critics, is the author of more thana dozen books, including his latest, Love,Poverty, War. He also writes for VanityFair, Harper’s and other publications.David Frum, author of the bestsellerThe Right Man, and a contributor toNational Review Online, the NationalPost and other publications, will be ourcommentator for this evening.
Samantha Power, founding ExecutiveDirector of the Carr Center for Human
Rights Policy at Harvard University, is theauthor of A Problem From Hell: Americaand the Age of Genocide and a winner ofthe 2003 Pulitzer Prize.
Azar Nafisi, author of the bestsellerReading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books,is a Visiting Professor at the Foreign PolicyInstitute of Johns Hopkins University,School of Advanced International Studies,in Washington, D.C.
The importance of democratizationfor Israel, and the Jewish People as awhole, cannot be overstated. At the sametime, this potentially world-changingphenomenon — for better or worse —has the potential to affect millions ofpeople across the planet.
Please join us for what are certain tobe four stimulating evenings.
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Please remember to bring your Advance Seating Card to ensure early admittance to these major lectures.
Yossi Klein HaleviYossi Klein Halevi Christopher HitchensChristopher Hitchens Samantha PowerSamantha Power Azar NafisiAzar Nafisi
October 2005 11 Elul 5765/ Tishrei 5766
and the joys of leadership. RSVP toYanna Baizer (ext. 0), at the Temple.
Studying the Talmud
A Taste of TalmudRabbi Dow MarmurThursdays at 10.30 a.m.Oct. 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17 and 24It is impossible to fathom Judaism with-out knowing something about the worldof the Rabbis of Talmud and Midrash.This course will look at six representativetexts (the original and in English) andoffer them for study and discussion.No prior knowledge is required, butcuriosity is a big plus. If there is interest,there will be more such courses in thefuture.
Library Programs
Book Club: Farewell, Babylon,by Naim KattanKen Skolnik, Facilitator
Mon. Oct. 24, at 10 a.m.For a complete list of books and dates,please call Anne Dublin (ext. 235),at the Temple. Everyone is welcome.
Strengthening Your Hebrew
Beginners Hebrew:Introduction to the Aleph Bet*Sara Kernerman, TeacherWednesdays at 6.30 p.m.Oct. 26 to Dec. 14 (also continuesWednesdays from January to May 2006)
Ongoing Learning
Shabbat Morning Torah Study:Genesis — When the World wasYoungRabbi John MoscowitzSaturdays at 9 a.m.
Learning Liturgy through SingingJewish MusicCantor Benjamin Z. MaissnerSundays at 10 a.m.
Sisterhood Torah Study: SecondBook of KingsRabbi Edward Goldfarb
Wednesdays at 9.30 a.m.No classes on Oct. 5 and 12.
The Yiddish NovelRabbi Edward Goldfarb
Wednesdays at 10.30 a.m.beginning Nov. 2We will continue our study of the worksof Yiddish author Haim Grade. A readingknowledge of Yiddish is desirable; however,all discussion will be in English. This courseis open to the community; non-memberswill be charged a fee of $60.
Sisterhood Programs
Leadership WorkshopLynn Magid Lazar, First Vice PresidentElect of Women of Reform JudaismSun. Oct. 16, at 11.30 a.m.Please join us for this special workshopand brunch. Lynn Lazar will enlighten uson all we need to know about Sisterhood
The Gerald Schwartz/Heather Reisman Centrefor Jewish Learning at Holy Blossom TempleOur Gerald Schwartz/Heather Reisman Centre for Jewish Learning provides opportunities to come together for major public lec-tures, to study Torah and other literature, and to obtain the skills needed to lead a deeper Jewish life. The following pages list onlysome of the fall 2005 offerings of the Centre. For a complete list of all lectures and classes, please watch your mail for the 2005/2006 Gerald Schwartz/Heather Reisman Centre for Jewish Learning Calendar or visit our Web site at www.holyblossom.org. Allprograms and lectures are open to the community unless otherwise stated. For your convenience, our daytime programs during theweek are marked with this symbol:
Custody: The Vatican
and Jewish Children
after the Holocaust
Michael Marrus, Chancel-
lor Rose and Ray Wolfe Profes-
sor of Holocaust Studies,
University of Toronto
Wed. Nov. 2, at 8 p.m.
This lecture will explore the contro-versial issue of the post-war fate ofJewish children rescued by Catholicfamilies or institutions during theHolocaust, and about whom therehas been intense controversy inrecent months. At issue are thesometimes poignant custody battlesthat raged at the time and whichhave been revived in present-daypolemics over the role of theVatican during the Holocaust.
Holocaust Education
Week
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The 2005 Israel Seminar
Is Israel an Imperialist and
Racist State?
Answers to the Critics
Rabbis John Moscowitz and
Edward Goldfarb
Mondays at 7.30 p.m.
Nov. 14 to Dec. 12
Was the Israeli War of Independence of 1948–1949expansionist aggression? Did Israel start the Six-DayWar? Is the Israeli occupation (of the disputed territo-ries) the cause of all the problems? Does Israel torturePalestinians? These are only five of the many chargesagainst Israel made not only by Arabs, Muslims andPalestinians, but by academics and journalists aroundthe world. Alan Dershowitz answers these charges in hispath-breaking defence of the Jewish State in his bookThe Case for Israel. In the third annual Israel Seminar,we will discuss these questions, which are so importantto the future of Israel as a sovereign Jewish State. Werecommend that participants obtain a copy of TheCase for Israel. Pre-registration required. Cost: $40
Intermediate Hebrew*Dalia Alalouf, Hebrew SupervisorMondays at 7 p.m.Oct. 31 to Dec. 12 (also continuesMondays from January to May 2006)
*Course limited to Temple members.Pre-registration is required. Cost: $200per year. For details or to register, pleasecall ext. 256 at the Temple.
Advanced Hebrew GrammarRabbi Edward Goldfarb
Tuesdays at 11 a.m.Ongoing to Dec. 7 (no classes duringOctober 2005; also continues Tuesdaysfrom January to May 2006)Open to members only.
Brotherhood Breakfast Club
The Secret Mitzvah of Lucio BurkeMichael ColeSun. Oct. 30, at 9.30 a.m.Join us for a review of Steven Hayward’snew novel, set in Toronto in 1933during the riots at Christie Pits. Menand women are welcome to join us forShacharit Services at 9 a.m., our popularbreakfast at 9.30 a.m. and a specialspeaker or presentation of interest tothe Jewish community at 10 a.m. Ournext two dates are Nov. 20 and Dec. 11.Brotherhood also sponsors some Tuesdaynight lectures. For more details and our2006 dates, please visit the BrotherhoodWeb site at www.obrj.org/hbbh/.
Opening Our Hearts
Jewish MeditationMichelle Katz Blumenthal, IyengarYoga TeacherWednesdays at 10.30 a.m.Oct. 26 to Dec. 7How can we open our hearts to Jewishpractices, which bring us closer toGod, to our community and to our-selves? As we meditate and studytogether, we will look at some of the
contemplative teachings from our ances-tors. In these sessions, we will practicemindful approaches to prayer, blessingsand psalms with kavannah (intention),deepening and enhancing our connec-tion to God. Pre-registration required.Cost: $60 for Temple members and $80for non-members
Book Talks
Jewish Literary ClassicsRabbi Bernard Baskin, Rabbi Emeritus,Temple Anshe Shalom, HamiltonThursdays at 7.30 p.m.Oct. 27 to Nov. 10Oct. 27 The Sins of Scripture, by John
Shelby SpongNov. 3 Omaha Blues: A Memory
Loop, by Joseph Lelyveld
Nov. 10 Jews and the American Soul,Human Nature in the 20th
Century, by Andrew Heinze
Influential Thinkers
God in Search of Man: the Thoughtof Rabbi Abraham Joshua HeschelRabbi Jason RosenbergWednesdays at 7.30 p.m.Nov. 2 to Dec. 7AJ Heschel was one of the most influential
Jewish thinkers of the 20th century and one
of its greatest writers. Participants will look at
his writings, and learn how this remarkable
thinker combined a traditional faith with an
unwavering commitment to rationality and
the best of modernity.
October 2005 13 Elul 5765/ Tishrei 5766
Education Mattersby Bebe Jacobs, Director of Education
Brit Kehillah
As a community, wehave a responsibilityto educate ouryounger members.But that education iscomplex. It’s not
enough to teach them objective facts andknowledge about Judaism if they don’tthink and behave like Jews. By that Imean that we haven’t succeeded in ourgoals if a student can recite every fact heor she has been taught but doesn’t knowhow to treat others and how to behave.
Friendly and funIt’s important that our Religious Schoolis warm, friendly and fun. It’s also im-portant that we create an environmentthat models that message: that how wetreat each other and how we behave mat-ters. It matters more than just what’staught, because only when our childrenfeel relaxed and safe and valued can theybegin to learn. The teachers know howimportant it is to create communitywithin the classroom, especially as thechildren only attend our school a fewhours a week. But, in order to ensurethat every child is on board in helping usto create a positive atmosphere, you —the parents — need to be on board too.This is why we’ve written and asked youto sign a Brit Kehillah.
The word brit signifies an agreement, apromise; and kehillah means community.
These are some examples of the pointsin the Brit Kehillah that we are askingparents to agree to:
I will arrive prepared to participate inall aspects of the educational program;I recognize that everyone has the rightto feel safe, cared for and respected,be able to learn to the best of his/herability, be treated equally irrespective
of race, gender, physical characteristicor any other factors, and be able tolearn and play without disruption;andI recognize that I have the right to beheard and the responsibility to listento others and follow instructions.
What we do mattersBy signing this brit, you become awarethat your family’s attitude towards whatwe do matters, and each family contrib-utes and makes a difference to the ethosof our Religious School. Everyone needsto respect what we do, to respect eachother and to help us create the sort oflearning environment where we can cel-ebrate our rich heritage — and to takeseriously the sacred task of knowing whatthat heritage is all about. By ensuring thatevery parent becomes fully aware of what
we stand for and what our expectations arefor the environment in which our childrenlearn, we can become a more cohesive, sup-portive community and religious school.
Of course, I’m happy to address anyquestions or concerns you may have aboutthe Brit Kehillah. If you would like to speakwith me, please make an appointment bycalling Lissette Ilgner, (ext. 238), at theTemple.
Mark your calendar for these2005 datesSun. Oct. 16, at 9 a.m
Grade 1 Parents/Student ProgramFri. Oct. 7 to Mon. Oct. 10
Grade 10 Trip to New York CityMon. Oct. 3, 10, 17 and 24
No Senior SchoolSun. Nov. 6, at 9 a.m.
Grade 6 Parent/Student Program
Grade 1 Consecration
Consecration is celebrated in order to welcome our young members into the
community. Consecration will be part of our Simchat Torah celebration on
Tue. Oct. 25, 2005, beginning with Services in the Youth Chapel at 6.20 p.m.
Consecrants and their parents will then join the community Service at 7 p.m.,
and will be honoured with the first Hakafah (Torah procession). Day School
students and their families are invited to participate and should call the Reli-
gious School office (ext. 237), at the Temple, to RSVP. Religious School families
are automatically included and do not need to call the office.
Holy Blossom Temple 14
Refresh this pageWeb siteby Judy Nyman, Bulletin Editor
In keeping with the sea-son of renewal, HolyBlossom Temple hasrevitalized its Website. We encourageyou to revisit
www.holyblossom.org and bookmark itas your reliable, up-to-date source for in-formation about our Temple. Visitwww.holyblossom.org to discover:
quick-loading Web pages;a comprehensive ‘search’ feature, whichlets you search our site, including pastissues of the Bulletin, D’vrei Torah andsermons;a Calendar of Services and Events,which lets you search for specific eventsand uses subject colour-coding to makeyour browsing easier. Calendar listingsare viewable by day, week or month,and you can sign up for an e-mailreminder that alerts you three daysbefore an event. You can also viewspecialized calendars for festivals andholidays, and a Hebrew calendar withcandle-lighting times;a new e-mail subscription serviceallowing you to receive the weeklyD’var Torah, or a monthly notice when
the Bulletin is available online;audio samples of Cantor Benjamin Z.Maissner’s recordings and a list ofmusic available on his CDs;a Photo Gallery, which will includephotos of recent events; andmaps and directions to assist yourguests when they visit Holy BlossomTemple.
We are also pleased to announce that,starting this month, you will be able tomake online donations to Holy BlossomTemple, using your credit card.
A new Web MasterThank you to Jerry Michaels, a new mem-ber of our congregation, for volunteering
to become ourWeb Master.
Jerry has spentcountless hoursimproving the fea-tures and usabilityof our site and willcontinue to keep itup to date for us.
Jerry has beenmanaging Web
sites for many years. His 30 years ofteaching experience, combined with hislove of technology and enthusiasm forvolunteer work, make him a wonderful
D’var TorahTemple member Mark Goodman contin-ues to add value to our Web site withhis insightful weekly D’var Torah — acommentary or instruction on a subjectrelated to the weekly Torah portion.Mark’s commentary is posted on our Website every Thursday. To read it, please visitour Web site, and click on D’var Torah un-der the Avodah/Worship heading. Previousweeks’ commentaries are also available atthis link.
The ancient wis-dom found in theTorah and in itsconsiderations bygenerations apart,still retains currencyin the clashes wewitness today; theideas of freedom,progress and justice.It is this core ideol-
ogy that has given Judaism the strengthand vitality to grow and attain diversitywithin.
We thank Mark for his continueddedication and time in producingthis commentary for the our Templemembers each week.
Generation t (for 20 and 30 somethings)
The FenceAlexandre Trudeau
Wed. Nov. 9, 2005, at 8 p.m.
Holy Blossom Temple’s Outreach Program for 20 and 30 somethings presents the screening of
Alexandre Trudeau’s provocative documentary, “The Fence,” followed by dialogue with him on
the current challenge facing Israel and the territories. Drinks and substanial nashes will be served.
Tickets: $12.
For more details, please call ext. 502, at the Temple, or e-mail [email protected].
Jerry Michaels
Mark Goodman
October 2005 15 Elul 5765/ Tishrei 5766
Events and AnnouncementsCOFFEE AND CONVERSATION
Please join us for coffee and conversationwhen you pick up your children from Reli-gious School on Sundays. Sisterhoodmembers will be serving coffee from 11 a.m.in the Ava Road Foyer.
Greater Community
HELPING THE VICTIMS OF HURRICANE
KATRINA
To make a donation to help the victimsof Hurricane Katrina, please visitwww.jewishtoronto.com to donatethrough UJA Federation, or visitwww.jewishcanada.org to donate throughUnited Israel Appeal (UIA) FederationsCanada. You can also donate by callingthe Canadian Council for ReformJudaism (CCRJ) at (416) 630-0375.
Arts and Literature
Fine Arts CommitteeTREE OF LIFE EXHIBIT BY MYRIAM NAFTE
Continues to Mon. Oct. 31, 2005This exhibit features a series of paintingsinspired by the early splendours of hand-painted shuls and manuscripts reflectingJewish medieval life. The highly detailedand stylized canvases integrate various pas-sages from the Old Testament.
A CALL TO TEMPLE ARTISTS To help us celebrate the Temple’s 150th an-niversary, the Fine Arts Committee invitesyou to participate in “A Show of OurOwn” — a juried exhibition of art formembers of Holy Blossom Temple to beheld in spring 2006. Watch the Bulletinfor more details.
Gemilut Chasadim
BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP
Helen Gia Levin, Grief TherapistWednesdays at 7 p.m.Nov. 2 to Dec. 7, 2005If you have lost a loved one, come to theTemple to find strength and comfort.Among other mourners, you will find thatyou are not alone as you mourn. Whilethe cost is generously subsidized by thecongregation, we invite each participantto contribute $50 for these sessions. Toregister, please call Cynthia Silverman
(ext. 276), at the Temple. We will offerthis series again in the spring.
Out of the ColdVOLUNTEER SIGN-UP NIGHT
Thur. Oct. 20, 20056.30 p.m. for Temple members; and7.30 p.m. for all othersWe are looking for new and former volun-teers to shop, set the tables, cook dinner,provide security, prepare bagged lunches,clean up in the evening or the morning,wash pots and pans, help with clothingdonations, serve dinner, visit with guestsand prepare breakfast. All volunteers mustsign up ahead of time. For more details,please call the Out of the Cold hotline(ext. 508), at the Temple.
Sisterhood
PROJECT 2005 RAFFLE DRAW
The main prize is a romantic weekend fortwo at The Briars, Lake Simcoe, includingall meals. Sisterhood uses the proceeds forits many worthwhile endeavours and iscounting on your support.
SISTERHOOD JUDAICA SHOP
The Judaica Shop offers wonderful itemsfor all your special occasions: Rosh Hashanahcards and hostess gifts, Chanukah gifts,Passover items, Judaica, books, calendarsand more. Our hours are:Monday to Friday 10.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.Sunday 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.
Attention Snowbirds
If you are spending all or part ofthis winter outside of Canada, youmay either: continue to receive yourBulletin at home, receive it at yourwinter address or receive it as ane-mail (Adobe PDF) attachment.To make a change in delivery, pleasecall Shannon Tramer (ext. 227), atthe Temple.
Brotherhood Annual Open Houseand Trivia Challenge Dinner
Wed. Oct. 26, 2005, at 6.30 p.m.
All members and potential members of Brotherhood are invited to this
get-acquainted evening. Test your Jewish and general trivia knowledge.
Prizes for all. To RSVP for the dinner, please call the Brotherhood hotline
We would like to welcome the following people to our Holy BlossomTemple Family:
Nancy & Gerald BakerMargot & Lawrence Baker, and JaredKenneth BeasleyJanice Bereskin & Ira Barkin, and Kylie and JakeLouise & Jan Blumenstein, and JoelleHelen & Stephen Brunswick, and Adam and JohnElaine & Ted ColeNisa & Matthew Diamond, and Jaryd & DaryaCila DruckerCheryl Rosen & Daniel Drucker, and Jeremy and MitchellTara & Michael Fingold, and Cole and MimiSusie Sheffman & Lyle Goodis, and Ben and MollyElizabeth Greisman, and Benjamin and MaudeHolly & Bernard HellenGay & Gerald Lokash, and KatieLeslie & Howard Mandel, and Joshua and MichaelPaula MoshonasFaith Halman & Bradley Pelman, and JoeyCynthia & Jay Stulberg and DavidLisa & Christian Taylor, and Ethan and HaydenDavid Zweig
Mazal Tov
BirthsShari & Bill Horvath on the birth of their daughter, Alexis Katie
Horvath. Proud grandparents are Eva Horvath, and Anita & ValRachlis. Proud great-grandparents are Ruth & Frank Gishman.
Aviva Wittenberg & Evan Ross on the birth of their daughter, NoaLaila Ross-Wittenberg. Proud grandparents are Pauline & GeraldRoss and Carolyn & Jean-Victor Wittenberg.
Lisa & Christian Taylor on the birth of their son, Hayden ColeTaylor, brother to Ethan. Proud grandparents are Beverley & LeslieRothschild, and Isabel & Chris Taylor.
3 Cheshvan 5766/Nov. 5, 2005Samuel Bayefsky, son of Lois Greisman &Eban Bayefsky
In Memoriam
The congregation sympathizes with the recently bereavedfamilies of:Ben Biback, father of Norman Biback
Sidney Fisher, husband of Sylvia Fisher, father of Larry Fisher andPaula Moscowitz, brother of Edith Kirzner
Rose Gladstone, wife of Max Gladstone, mother of Lorne Gladstone
and Wilf Gladstone, sister of Hymie MarderPearl Lazonick, mother of Bayla Kolk, Bill Lazonick and Judy Wine
Saul Morris, husband of Anita Morris, father of Daniel Morris, Ian
Morris and Michael MorrisAndrew Pack, son of Linda & Samuel Pack, brother of Jessica Pack,
grandson of Ethel Bain
Genia Schneiderman, mother of Simon Schneiderman
October 2005 17 Elul 5765/ Tishrei 5766
Name DateMarley Pollock Oct. 12Ralph Roger 12Gertrude Casselman 13Gertrude Gardiner 13Sarah Greenwood 13Tina Louise Stupp 13Bernard Goldstein 14Jacob Lipson 14Percy Singer 14Fannie Smith 14Pearl Banks 15Amalia Dan 15Maxwell Levy 15Dewey David Bloom 16Max Pascal 16Sydney Ezrin 17Norma Revo 17Reuben Rosefield 17Florence Roth 17Harry Shapiro 17Gertrude Cohen 18Anne Nashman 18Celia Smith 18Jessie Gertrude Cook 19Rose Kanoff 19Elliott Lloyd Marrus 19Henia Anna Zelechew 19David Budish 20Rose Osler 20Joseph Pearlstein 20Slaaveh Raicus 20Sol Alter 21Toby Denaburg 21Zelma Solursh 21David Louis Harris 22Louise Lebo 22Mary Lipson 22Blanche Ruth Rosenfeld 22Rose Baker 23Sophie Blackstone 23Isa Cohen 23Israel Lurie 23Fred. W. Wolff 23
Name DateJennie Beber Oct. 24David Rothschild 24Samuel Louis Shendroff 24Jennie Yudashkin 24Eva Margolies Cohen 25Sadie Wolfe Danson 25Mila Smialy Penn 25George Samuel Shear 26Ethel White 26Esther Wolfe Stein 28Harry Cohen 29Diane Eisen 29Milton Bernard Lambert 29Aziz Yacoob 29Rebecca Gertrude Eisen 30Joseph Gutman 30Betty Kofsky 30Helen Mandel 30Sadie Berman 31Gerald George Nashman 31Irving Beckerman Nov. 1Jack Giddens 1Sara Keyfitz 1Herbert Leon 1Sydney Cecil Olsberg 1George Arthur Pollock 1Pauline Shapero 1Benjamin Stutz 1David Alan Turner 1Leonard Wolfe 1Rose Abiscott 2Irving J. Cole 2Edward Garfin 3Percy Irwin Pasternak 3Ruth Strauch 3Leah Martha Brown 4Percy Kopman 4Hartley Schipper 4Elizabeth Spira 4Barbara Baltman 5Golda Fine 5Rebecca Rosenberg 5Nathan Joel Stitt 5Bessie Winters 5
We thank our generous donors
Aid for Survivors of TerrorismTerrye & Jack Kuper, 50th Wedding Anniversary: Julie & Michael NoordenAlan Hiltz, In Appreciation: Etienne & Aubrey Kaplan
Accessibility FundMax Blum, In Memory: Etta Ginsberg McEwanSelma Eisen, In Memory: Etta Ginsberg McEwanGordon Wolfe, In Honour: Etta Ginsberg McEwan
Ruth Borden Memorial Youth Award FundBarry Borden, In Honour: Jean Silver
Brotherhood FundSandra & David Sandler, Marriage of Son: Susan & Jeff Levy
Tom and Jeanette Brown Memorial FundCantor Benjamin Z. Maissner, In Appreciation: Family of Hershel LeboRabbi Yael Splansky, In Appreciation: Family of Hershel Lebo
Danson Family FundJoseph B. Danson, Yahrzeit: Theodora & Bert Danson; Marilyn Farber and Family
Jean Fine Seniors FundMax Blum, In Memory: Kathy & Maurice GreenNorman Kerbel, 80th Birthday: Arlene & Carl StoneLesley & Ron Miller, In Honour: Kathy & Maurice GreenDiana Morgulis, In Memory: Leila Conn, Marilyn Farber; Gail & Gary Goodman;
Judy & Elliott Jacobson; Pnina Margolese; Ruth Nesbitt & Javier Castro; Nancy& Sam Ruth; Sheila & Bob Smolkin
Albert Oberndorffer, Yahrzeit: Theodora & Bert DansonJoy & Herb Wolfson, 50th Anniversary: Tema & Irwin TitleMondays @ Temple Volunteers, In Appreciation: Mondays @ Temple Participants
Gardner Family FundJack Geller, Special Birthday: Zita Gardner
Holy Blossom Temple FoundationEvelyn & Harold Ashley, 50th Wedding Anniversary: Elinor & Beryl BorsookMax Blum, In Memory: Randi & Alan GarfinkelBarry Borden, In Honour: Linda & Gordy WolfeRose Duviner Shulman, In Memory: Roz & Stan WitkinGunnar Funke, In Memory: Randi & Alan GarfinkelAnita & Ned Goodman, In Appreciation: Barbara & Richard ConwayJoy Guttman & Perry Young, Marriage: Sandra & David SandlerJill Hertzman, In Honour: Jane & Robert HermanMerle Kriss, Birth of Grandson: Roz & Stan WitkinDiana Morgulis, In Memory: Matilda Bigio; Randi & Alan Garfinkel; Sam Good;
Sally & Ben Jacobson; Jeanne Kamarner; Bambi Katz & Al Freireich; Lily Lee;Sheila & Martin Wolfish
Rose Duviner Shulman, In Memory: Roz & Stan WitkinPercy Smith, In Memory: Roz & Stan WitkinLen Sober, In Memory: Randi & Alan Garfinkel
Isenberg Endowment FundJoe Mann, In Memory: Rose Fogle; Annette Fogle
Israel Study FundLen Sober, In Memory: Anne Dublin
Joan Kerbel Leadership Development FundMax Blum, In Memory: Sara & Rick Charney, Sarita Dotan; Carmen Horvath;
Sheila & Bob SmolkinSara Charney, In Honour: Shoshana Cole; Sheila & Bob SmolkinGail Goodman, In Honour: Sheila & Bob SmolkinGail & Gary Goodman, Mazal Tov: Janice & Larry Babins; Holy Blossom Temple
SisterhoodSybil & David Gordon, In Honour: Sara & Rick CharneyNorman Kerbel, 80th Birthday: Faga & Milton Clapham; Sally Gallinger, Diane &
Bernie NovackDiana Morgulis, In Memory: Sara & Rick Charney
Library Book FundDaniel Bayefsky, In Honour: Bayefsky FamilyDiana Morgulis, In Memory: Carmen & Andrei Horvath, and Emil; Marlene &
Robert Ruderman
* Inadvertantly omitted from the last Bulletin.
Holy Blossom Temple 18
Dow and Fredzia Marmur Program for Educational ExcellenceBarbara Bagnell, Special Birthday: Ellen KarabanowBambi Katz, In Appreciation: Sheila & Bob SmolkinTerrye & Jack Kuper, In Honour: Esther & Marvin TileCelia Levy, Yahrzeit: Sybil & David Gordon and FamilyFredzia & Dow Marmur, In Honour: Etta Ginsberg McEwanDiana Morgulis, In Memory: Walter SeatonLen Sober, In Memory: Sheila & Bob Smolkin
Musical Legacy FundMax Blum, In Memory: Annie & Michael Appelby; Phyllis WintraubToby & Gary Ciglen, 50th Wedding Anniversary: Fran & Murray EllisSelma Eisen, In Memory: Annie & Michael AppelbyHelen Feldmann, Special Birthday: Nancy & Lloyd PollackKathy & Maurice Green, Mazal Tov: Ellen KarabanowMari Lynn Rusak, Birth of Granddaughter: Holy Blossom Temple Singers
Olsberg Rutsatz FundNaomi Gropper Steiner, Yahrzeit: Olsberg FamilyJohn Loughrey, In Memory: Elke & Mel Olsberg
Out of the ColdMatilda Bigio, In Honour: Margaret & David Hart; Ron HartMax Blum, In Memory: Fran & Murray Ellis; Ann & Gary PosenKevin Davis, In Honour: Tina Urman & Carey Diamond, and Shayna, Sunny and
RoryHarold Fine, 90th Birthday: Norma & Max BorinskyGunnar Funke, In Memory: Ann & Gary Posen; Lydia Schaverien; Debby & Sid
Troister; Elaine & David WolpinKathy & Maurice Green, Birth of Granddaughter: Janice & Larry Babins; Judy
Malkin & Elliott JacobsonRoz & Mel Muroff, Happy Anniversary: Ann & Gary PosenGrace & Joseph Soren, 65th Anniversary: Janis & Gary SorenJen Green & Michael Smolash, Birth of Daughter Ayla: Judy Malkin & Elliott
JacobsonFlorence Hertzman, Special Birthday: Lois Greisman & Eban Bayefsky, and Daniel
and Sammy
Harry and Cecile Pearl Youth Award FundFred & Joyce Zemans, Wedding Anniversary: Leslie & Adam Griff and Family;
Carol & Alan Lavine; Charlotte & Samuel Schwartz
Plaut ManorVictoria Kepes, Bat Mitzvah: Goltanich Family
Project TikvahMax Blum, In Memory: Gail & Barry SilverYehezkel Lipinsky, Bat Mitzvah: Gail & Barry SilverGail & Barry Silver, Mazal Tov on Restaurant Opening: Judy Jordan-Austin; Jo-
Anne SlobodskyLen Sober, In Memory: Julie & Lawrence Schwartz
Rabbis’ Discretionary FundRabbi Yael Splansky, In Appreciation: Shelly GansRabbi Jason Rosenberg, In Appreciation: June DennisRabbi Dow Marmur, In Appreciation: Marie KnaulRabbi Edward Goldfarb, In Appreciation: Andrea Cooper; Marie Knaul
Nancy Ruth Educational FundJack Geller, Special Birthday: Ellen KarabanowSam Ruth, In Honour: Etta Ginsberg McEwan
Lorraine Sandler Tribute FundLen Sober, In Memory: Holy Blossom Temple Pre-School TeachersPam Hamovitch, In Appreciation: Natalie Florence and Family
To make a donation to any of our existing funds, please call the FoundationOffice, at (416) 789-3291, ext. 228.
To learn more about how you can support the Holy Blossom TempleFoundation, or to establish a new fund, please call Deborah Tameanko,at (416) 789-3291, ext. 228.
To make a donation to MAZON Canada, please call (416) 783-7554.
To make a donation to the Toronto Community Forest Fund, please callSybil Gordon at (416) 489-5709.
We appreciate your supportHoly Blossom Temple appreciates all donations to our funds, howeverdue to rising costs, cards will only be sent for donations of $18 or more.We will continue to recognize donations of $18 or more in the Bulletin.
We apologize but due to space constraints, not all donations will appearin the Bulletin issue closest to the date on which the contribution wasmade. Donations in this issue were received by Aug. 19, 2005.
Contacts for DonationsContacts for DonationsContacts for DonationsContacts for DonationsContacts for Donations
Joanne Hoffman, In Appreciation: Natalie Florence and FamilyLorraine & Alan Sandler, Best Wishes: Pam & Greg HamovitchAlison Weinrib, In Appreciation: Natalie Florence and Family
Barry Z. Schacter Youth Award FundHelen & Joe Feldman, In Honour: Lilian SchacterHelen Greenbaum, In Honour: Lilian SchacterBryna Hyman, Best Wishes: Lilian SchacterLiz & Ivan Jaye, In Honour: Lilian Schacter and FamilyElaine & Clarence Katz, In Honour: Lilian SchacterLinda & Cecil Schwartz, In Honoour: Lilian SchacterHelene Silverman, In Honour: Lilian Schacter
Shacharit FundMiriam Cohen, Yahrzeit: Devor FamilyDavid Collins, Yahrzeit: Eve EnnisGunnar Funke, In Memory: Lesley & Ron MillerFanny Galfund, Yahrzeit: Lillian ShermanStephanie Kessler, Yahrzeit: Harvey KesslerIrene Klein, Yahrzeit: Vera & Alex MandelHelen Mandel, Yahrzeit: Vera & Alex MandelDiana Morgulis, In Memory: Reba Clodman; Lesley Miller; Isaac MorgulisBessie Salem, Yahrzeit: Jocelyn & Shia SalemMark Solomon, Yahrzeit: Joan TuckerJohn Sweet, In Appreciation: Hedie & Arnie UngerJosephine Webber, In Memory: Lesley & Ron Miller
Leonard Wolf Educational FundRothstein Family, Happy Anniversary: Carol Dale; Honey Wolf
Youth AwardsMarjorie Baskin, In Memory: Esther Zeller Cooper & Morris Cooper, and Andrea
and JessicaSuzanne & Stuart Egier, Aaron’s Graduation: Debby & Avery TeplinskyAbraham Freuerlich-Berecz, Yahrzeit: Helen BartoBambi Katz, In Honour: Eleanor & Lou WisenbergLili Katz, 70th Birthday: Tania & Brian Blumenthal, Jenna and MikaylaAnnie LeSarge, In Honour: Margaret & David HartJeremy Solomon, Confirmation: Harvey Borden
October 2005 19 Elul 5765/ Tishrei 5766
This month @ Holy Blossom October 2005
Elul 5765/Tishrei 5766
The Bulletin is published 11 times a year, between September and June, by Holy Blossom Temple, 1950 Bathurst Street, Toronto, ON M5P 3K9. Telephone: (416) 789-3291; Fax: (416) 789-9697; e-mail: [email protected]; Web site: www.holyblossom.org. Honorary President: John A. Geller; President: Alan Garfinkel; Senior Rabbi: John Moscowitz; Associate Rabbi: Yael Splansky; Assistant Rabbi:Jason Rosenberg; Rabbi: Edward Goldfarb; Cantor: Benjamin Z. Maissner; Director of Education: Bebe Jacobs; Rabbi Emeritus: Dow Marmur; Senior Scholar: Rabbi W. Gunther Plaut; Executive Director:Benjamin Applebaum; Holy Blossom Temple Foundation Chair: Judy NymanJudy NymanJudy NymanJudy NymanJudy Nyman; Bulletin Committee Chair: Richard Rotman; Bulletin Editor: Judy Nyman.
Design and Production: Holy Blossom Temple was founded in 1856 and is affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism and the Canadian Council for Reform Judaism.
As dates and times may change without notice, please confirm all information by calling the Temple – at any time – to access This Week @ Holy
Blossom recording.
Sat. Oct. 1 27 Elul
9 a.m. Torah Study
Sun. Oct. 2 28 Elul
10 a.m. Liturgy through Music (Temple Singers)
Sat. Oct. 8 5 Tishrei
9 a.m. Torah Study
Sun. Oct. 9 6 Tishrei
10 a.m. Liturgy through Music (Temple Singers)
Sat. Oct. 15 12 Tishrei
9 a.m. Torah Study
Sun. Oct. 16 13 Tishrei
10 a.m. Liturgy through Music (Temple Singers)
11.30 a.m. Sisterhood and the Joys of Leadership, with Lynn
Lazar
12.15 p.m. Sukkah decorating
Mon. Oct. 24 14 Tishrei
10 a.m. Mondays @ the Temple, with Rabbi Michael Stroh
Wed. Oct. 19 16 Tishrei
9.30 a.m. Sisterhood Torah Study
12 p.m. Lunch and Learn in Retirement, with June Henderson
Thur. Oct. 20 17 Tishrei
10.30 a.m. A Taste of Talmud, with Rabbi Dow Marmur
6.30 p.m. Out of the Cold Volunteer Sign Up
Fri. Oct. 21 18 Tishrei
6 p.m. Tot Shabbat and Dinner
Sat. Oct. 22 19 Tishrei
9 a.m. Torah Study
Sun. Oct. 23 20 Tishrei
8.30 a.m. Habitat for Humanity House Build
10 a.m. Liturgy through Music (Temple Singers)
12.30 p.m. Sukkah Party
Mon. Oct. 24 21 Tishrei
10 a.m. Mondays @ the Temple, with Bill Gladstone
10 a.m. Library Book Club, with Ken Skolnik
Tue. Oct. 25 22 Tishrei
6 p.m. Simchat Torah Flag Making
6.20 p.m. Consecration
7 p.m. Simchat Torah Service and Celebration
Wed. Oct. 26 23 Tishrei
9.30 a.m. Sisterhood Torah Study
10.30 a.m. Jewish Meditation
6.30 p.m. Beginners Hebrew
6.30 p.m. Brotherhood Open House and Trivia Challenge
Thur. Oct. 27 24 Tishrei
10.30 a.m. A Taste of Talmud, with Rabbi Dow Marmur
7.30 p.m. The Sins of Scripture, with Rabbi Bernard Baskin
Sun. Oct. 30 27 Tishrei
9 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast Club
10 a.m. Liturgy through Music (Temple Singers)
Mon. Oct. 31 28 Tishrei
10 a.m. Mondays @ the Temple, with Peggy Needham
7 p.m. Intermediate Hebrew
Tue. Nov. 1 29 Tishrei
11 a.m. Advanced Hebrew
Wed. Nov. 2 30 Tishrei
9.30 a.m. Sisterhood Torah Study
10.30 a.m. The Yiddish Novel
10.30 a.m. Jewish Meditation
12 p.m. Lunch and Learn in Retirement, with Larry Gordon
6.30 p.m. Beginners Hebrew
7 p.m. Bereavement Support Group
7.30 p.m. God in Search of Man, with Rabbi Jason Rosenberg
8 p.m. Custody: The Vatican and Jewish Children after the
Holocaust, with Michael Marrus
For Worship Services, please see page 2.
For High Holy Day Services and Study Sessions, please see pages 4 and 5.
Holy Blossom Temple 20
Double
1950 Bathurst Street
Toronto, ON M5P 3K9
Canada Post
Publications Mail
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Last Wordby Rabbi Yael Splansky
How the individual prepares for the Days of Awe
Most people acrossthe map of time andspace primarily viewthemselves as part ofa collective and viewtheir own story to be
the same as the story of the collective.The boundaries of where an individualends and his or her loyalties to others beginare blurred by a greater identity with awhole. However, Judaism has distinguisheditself throughout the ages by recognizingthe needs and potential of each human life.
We see it in our calendar. Our year isfilled with holidays that mark historicalevents and core values of our People:Pesach, Shavuot, Purim, Yom Ha’Atzmaut,
etc. Yet the High Holy Days stand alonein that they are focused on the concernsof the individual — his weakness, herstrength, my regret and your potential.I wonder if this is why the High HolyDays are observed so widely. The themesof self-reflection and self-renewal arecompelling for every Jew.
While our surrounding secular cultureseems to be obsessed with the needs andinterests of the individual, we must becareful not to diminish the High HolyDays to be seen as just another self-helpindulgence. The Days of Awe only makesense when they take place in the contextof our collective, which includes ourPeople and our God. The kind ofreflection and renewal we seek is onlysuccessfully found when an individualexamines and reasserts his or her loyaltiesto others, including God.
On RepentanceThe Sefat Emet, a late Chasidic master,teaches that there are two kinds of teshuvah(repentance): one motivated by fear andone motivated by love. The one motivated byfear turns us away from wrong doing; the onemotivated by love towards acts of goodness.
When motivated by love, one can turnand change course on his or her own, without the help of God. But when burdenedby wrong doing and regret, one cannotreach change alone. Fear, then, becomes agreat motivator, for God helps those whoare afraid to change. As it is written in theBook of Lamentations: “Return us to You, OGod, and we shall return.”
Let our fear motivate us to distinguishindividuality from loneliness and letour love for our People motivate us tostrengthen our ties of loyalty to oneanother and to God.
Perform a double mitzvahPerform a double mitzvah
MitzvahDuring the High Holy Days, you will be asked to make your annual purchase of State of Israel Bonds in support of the Jewish
State. By donating a bond to the Holy Blossom Temple Foundation, you help support our synagogue. Simply remove the sticker
from the Bonds card and place it on the tab of the bond you wish to purchase and donate. So, why not strengthen Israel, Holy
Blossom and yourself? Buy bonds. It’s a win-win-win plan.
