in this issue Daily/Shabbat Worship … 2, In Perspective … 3, Purim 2006/5766 … 4, Our Israel … 5, Celebrating 150 Years … 6, The Gerald Schwartz/Heather Reisman Centre for Jewish Learning … 8, Education Matters … 10, Events and Announcements … 11, Our Congregational Family … 12, This Month @ Holy Blossom … 15, The Last Word … 16 Vol. LXXX No. 6 • February 2 0 0 6 • Shevat/ Adar 5 7 6 6 Holy Blossom Temple inside … Celebrating our 150 th Anniversary Learn from Rabbi Jonathan Crane in February and March Dimensions of Violence: Judaism on Self- Defence, War and Terrorism See page 3.
Transcript
in this issueDaily/Shabbat Worship … 2, In Perspective … 3, Purim 2006/5766 … 4, Our Israel … 5, Celebrating 150 Years … 6,
The Gerald Schwartz/Heather Reisman Centre for Jewish Learning … 8, Education Matters … 10, Events and
Announcements … 11, Our Congregational Family … 12, This Month @ Holy Blossom … 15, The Last Word … 16
Shabbat TerumahFri. Mar. 3 6 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat ServiceFri. Mar. 3 6 p.m. Tot Shabbat and DinnerSat. Mar. 4 10.30 a.m. Shabbat ServiceSat. Mar. 4 10.30 a.m. Family Shabbat Service
Shabbat TetzavehFri. Mar. 10 6 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat ServiceSat. Mar. 11 10.30 a.m. Congregation-wide Shabbat Service
Please remember to visit our Web site, at www.holyblossom.org, to read our weekly D’var Torah. (Just click on D’var Torah under the Avodah/Worship menu button.)
Every Friday, we will gather at 5.30 p.m. to prepare for Shabbat — with some song, a bit of study and a nosh. Come straight from school and work, and bring the entire family, from kids to grandparents. Then join us for our Kabbalat Shabbat Services at 6 p.m.
February 2006 3 Shevat/Adar 5766
In Perspectiveby Rabbi John Moscowitz
After Sharon: Kadima
On the eve of con-solidating the most signifi cant political accomplishment since the establishment of the State of Israel, a
grave illness felled Ariel Sharon. As of this writing — mid-January — we con-tinue to pray for his health, indeed for any semblance of life the Prime Minister may yet have, God willing. We know that Sharon’s political career is almost certainly over; may his life go on.
Health of IsraelWe also pray for the health of the State of Israel. For it is as if, for many Israelis, a kind of father fi gure no longer exists. There is bereavement, confusion — and by the telling of some, chaos and fear. No one leader appears capable of taking Sharon’s place, of continuing to lead as he did so extraordinarily these past sev-eral years — indeed for the better part of the past six decades.
Having said that, I’m not among those despairing at the moment. It’s not because I expect a leader of Sharon’s
capability to emerge soon; nor is it be-cause I rely on God to bring a miracle now. Rather, Ariel Sharon’s political ac-complishments of the past several years are much more solid than most would believe — and I think we can be hope-ful that if important Israeli leaders of the centre (Olmert, Livni and Peres) genu-inely stand together, they can fi nalize what Sharon accomplished.
That unusual political accomplish-ment consists of solving the boundary question on the east side of Israel for the fi rst time; solving the demographic prob-lem so a smaller number of Jews would not continue to dominate over an ever-growing number of Arabs; and a very serious reduction in terrorism against Israelis.
There is much more to do — the challenge of social welfare for the vulner-able and the danger of Iran loom most seriously — but Ariel Sharon, possessed of courage, a strong heart and a powerful hand, has brought far more security to Israel than any of his predecessors. Indeed, it is safe to say that, with the possible exception of David Ben Gurion, Sharon has been Israel’s most important Prime Minister. The hard left will contin-ue to grumble and pretend Sharon isn’t what he is — a pragmatic centrist — and
Rabbi Jonathan Crane Ph.D. Candidate in the Study of Religion, Specializing in Jewish Ethics, University of Toronto
Dimensions of Violence: Judaism on Self-Defence, War and Terrorism
the infl exible right will continue to shout that he is a sell-out pragmatic centrist. Let them grumble; Israel and the Jewish People are fortunate to have had a leader like Ariel Sharon.
Because of Sharon’s accomplishments, a mature Israeli leadership, if willing, can hold these facts on the ground. Absent a Palestinian partner willing to live in peace and in their own contiguous state beside Israel — this is the best we can hope for in the foreseeable future. It is no small accomplishment; rather, history will surely judge Ariel Sharon well and appropriately for his work on behalf of Israel.
Simple and profoundA couple of days after Sharon’s massive stroke, I spoke about him in shul. After-ward, our devoted member, Sarita Dotan, mentioned something both simple and profound, I hadn’t thought of. That is, Ariel Sharon embodied the Israeli military man who led his soldiers into battle at the very front, saying in Israeli style, “acharai” — after me; and in the very last weeks of his political career, Mr. Sharon established the most forward looking party possible, appropriately named Kadima. As the party is so named, let Israel move forward and progress: toward more security, de-mocracy and eventually peace.
Wednesdays at 7.30 p.m.Feb. 15 to Mar. 22, 2006This course examines complex and practical issues related to contemporary warfare. We will follow the textual arguments to learn how halachah and ethical sensibilities infl uence each other.
Holy Blossom Temple 4
Volunteers neededThe Purim Committee needs adult
and teenage volunteers to help
with the carnival and Megillah
readings. High school students
can earn community service cred-
it; students and parents can have
fun while helping the Temple. For
more details, please call the Purim
hotline (ext. 515), at the Temple.
Purim Carnival Sun. Mar. 12, at 12.30 p.m.An extravaganza of games, rides, prizes and more! Bring your kids in costume. Admission (including all games): $4 for members; $5 for non-members; free for kids younger than two years old. Free hamantashen for every guest; other food and drink available to buy.
Family Megillah Reading Mon. Mar. 13, at 6.30 p.m.Join us for this riotous celebration, geared especially for families with young children. Dress up the family and be a part of a costume parade. Then help your kids and grandkids drown out the name of Haman during our Megillah-reading Service and Purim sing-along.
The Megillah According to Motown! (for adults and teens) Mon. Mar. 13, at 8 p.m.Don’t let the kids have all the fun. Come and sing along with us as we send up the Megillah. Prizes will be given for best costume, so make sure that you come dressed up! We’ll supply the champagne; you bring the ruach!
It s our annual Purim extravaganza, anof our great Purim activities — there’s something for every age, so there’s something for you! We need you — It’s not too late to get involved in the production. Can you sing? Can you dance? We don’t care! Come join us anyway and be a part of the biggest night of fun during the year. E-mail Rabbi Edward Goldfarb, at [email protected], and tell him you want to be in The Megillah According to Motown!
Purim 2006/5766
You won’t be able to resist the temptations!temptations! Come and enjoy the (Stevie) wonderwonderof
It’s a miracle!miracle!
The Megillah According to MotownThe Megillah According to Motown
February 2006 5 Shevat/Adar 5766
Voting for the World Zionist Congress elec-tions will begin soon. Voting for ARZA in these elections is a valu-able way to support
Reform Judaism and religious pluralism in Israel. (For further details on voting, consult www.VoteReformJudaismCanada.com or Temple posters.) Here are some reasons why Israel’s Reform Movement is so important to Israel and Reform Jews in the Diaspora.
Reform means social actionReform Judaism in Israel is pursuing Reform values through its institutions and synagogues. The Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC) works for a democratic, fair and religiously pluralis-tic Israeli society. IRAC lobbyist Loren Poris has been working to fi ll a need for large-scale food distribution to needy Is-raelis. According to Loren, many Israelis
do not have enough money to buy food after paying for other necessities. Loren recently accompanied members of the Israeli Knesset from various parties — Labour, Shinui, Likud and United Arab List — to take part in a forum that ad-dressed the problem of hunger. MAZON (A Jewish Response to Hunger) and IRAC were partners in this endeavour.
A vision of equality for allIRAC attorney Einat Hurvitz focuses on issues of racism and the equal rights of Palestinian Israelis. She lobbies the government to treat the Arab minority with equality in all respects because, “In the long run, these struggles for justice will translate into positive changes for ordinary citizens.”
There are many courageous young Israelis in the Progressive Judaism Move-ment who have a strong desire for a vibrant and workable civil society. IRAC has joined with other groups in efforts such as advocating for a less-disruptive route for the defensive wall and mobiliz-ing Arab societies to become responsible citizens of Israel.
Reform Judaism in IsraelOur Israelby Rivanne Sandler, Co-Chair, Israel Committee
Social justiceTwo Reform congregations in Israel, Kol Haneshama and Beit Daniel, assisted by members of the Reform Youth Movement, worked with the welfare departments in East Jerusalem, Haifa and Shvar Am to distribute food packages to Muslim Israeli families. Progressive movements such as IRAC, the Israel Movement for Progressive Judaism, members of the Mechina (the Reform pre-army training program), Leo Baeck, Reform congregations and moshavs, are joining together to work toward social justice for all in Israel.
Great films from IsraelWe continue to present quality Israeli fi lms that offer a vivid and entertaining window for Diaspora Jews into the uniqueness of living in this eventful country. Please mark your 2006 calendars for the following Thursday evenings at 7.30 p.m.:Feb. 23 — Pretzel Wisdom (comedy) Mar. 30 — Broken Wings (drama)Apr. 27 — The Troupe (musical comedy)
See the Temple bulletin boards or the Holy Blossom Temple Web site at www.holyblossom.org for more information.
Spring holidays and days of commemoration
Pesach 2006/5766Erev Pesach ServicesWed. Apr. 12, at 6 p.m.
First Day PesachThur. Apr. 13, at 10 a.m.Congregation-wide Services will come alive with songs of Hallel as Cantor Benjamin Z. Maissner, the Holy Blos-som Temple Singers, the Holy Blossom Temple Simcha Band and the Leo Baeck Children’s Choir lead us in song. Join us for a festive kiddush lunch after the Services. Creative children’s study pro-grams and child care will be available.
Erev Seventh Day Pesach ServicesTue. Apr. 18, at 6 p.m.Erev Yom Tov Services
Seventh Day PesachWed. Apr. 19, at 10 a.m.We will observe the last day of Pesach with Yom Tov and Yizkor Services, followed by a kiddush lunch. Child care will be provided.
Commemorate then celebrateYom Ha’Shoah Service In Remembrance of the Six MillionTue. Apr. 25, 2006, at 7 p.m. Please join us for a service of song and poetry, remembrance and refl ection.
Yom Ha’Zikaron/Yom Ha’AtzmautTue. May 2, 2006Save the date for our Service in remem-brance of Israel’s fallen soldiers, and our outdoor Israeli Family Fair, with games, crafts, food and lots of music.6 p.m. Yom Ha’Zikaron Service6.30 p.m. Yom Ha’Atzmaut Fair
Holy Blossom Temple 6
This year marks the 150th anniversary of Holy Blossom Temple. We will cel-ebrate this auspicious anniversary through-
out the 2006–07 Temple program year. The planning committees have developed thoughtful and exciting programs to mark this special occasion, and there is something of interest for all members.
Please put these dates in your calendar, so you and your family can plan to participate in the following key events.
• Wed. May 17, 24 and 31, 2006 — Ken Wyman, past professor and student of Canadian Jewish history, will offer insights into the lives of three Toronto Jews who profoundly infl uenced the early direction of our congregation: Abraham Nordheimer, Lewis Samuel and Alfred Benjamin.
• Sun. Sept. 17, 2006 — We will be joined by representatives of the Jewish community and all levels of government
for the offi cial start of our 150th anniversa-ry celebration. Rabbi Eric Yoffi e, President of the Union for Reform Judaism, will be our main speaker. The ceremony will be followed by an outdoor gathering, which will include music, stories, food and entertainment. We will be joined by Emily and Eugene Grant, of Mamaronek, NY, who have accepted the position of honourary patrons of this historical event. Emily is the daughter of Ben and Hortense Geldzaeler and the granddaughter of Mark Geldzaeler — who played a signifi -cant role in the early life of Holy Blossom.
• Sat. Oct. 14, 2006 — Our Sefer Torah project, Torat Chaim, is the centerpiece of our anniversary year. We hope each of you will participate. Join us for the formal launch of Torat Chaim and the writing of the fi rst letter as part of our Simchat Torah celebration.
• Fri. May 4, Sat. May 5 and Sun. May 6, 2007 — Providing a good Jewish education to our children and a challenging learning experience for adults has been a hallmark of our Temple. Join
us for an exciting weekend to honour our educational endeavours. Events include the Religious School Open House and the reunion of all the graduates of our Confi rmation classes from 1921 to 1980.
• Wed. May 23, 2007 — A gift given more than 3,300 years ago will be received again, as we mark the completion of Torat Chaim and joyously dedicate our new Torah as part of our Shavuot Service.
• Sun. June 17, 2007 — Our 150th anniversary year will conclude with a spe-cial performance at Roy Thompson Hall by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and guest artist Giora Fiedman in a salute to the Holy Blossom Temple Congregation for its remarkable contribution to the Toronto community.
As the planning for other 150th anni-versary events is fi nalized, I will share their dates and highlights with you. Later this year, we will send you a calendar of activi-ties for our anniversary, so that you can see how this special year will unfold and can plan to participate in many of these events.
On Dec. 4 and 5, 2005, Neil Yerman, our Torah Scribe, engaged congregants of all ages in learning about “How to write
a Torah.” Neil’s love of Torah was shared in a hands-on manner. In each session, we gathered around the Torah and looked closely to decipher the age of the Torah,
determine the country of origin, guess the age of the sofer and notice the style of writing.
The pre-schoolers told Neil the fi rst story in the Torah, about how God made the world; they then helped Neil clean the “little Torah” with a brush. Kinder-garten and Grade 2 students learned that quills are made from goose or turkey feathers, and parchment is made of calf, deer, sheep or goat skin. Grade 5 and 6 students had the opportunity to do some
Hebrew calligraphy with special markers. Neil met with the Grade 7 students and their parents and helped them to prepare in a different way for their B’nei Mitzvot. (See next page for photographs of some of our students with Neil Yerman.)
Neil showed us how he will guide our hand as each one of us writes a letter in our Torat Chaim. By the end of the weekend, all of us who had participated in study sessions felt a closer connection to Torah.
Celebrating 150 years
by Henrietta Chesnie, Chair, 150th Anniversary Committee
Our 150th anniversary unfolds
by Janice Babins, Chair, Torat Chaim Project
Meeting our scribe
February 2006 7 Shevat/Adar 5766
Celebrating 150 years
Come and pray with us and discover, through words and music, why Naomi is known as “the fi rst lady of Israeli song.”
Lindi Rivers, the Holy Blossom Temple Singers, the Holy Blossom Temple Junior Choir and other talented musicians will bring this musical legacy to life.
During the Shabbat Morning Service, join us for a tribute to
Naomi Shemer
the beloved Israeli poet/songwriter who composed
Yerushalayim shel Zahav (Jerusalem of Gold).
Neil Yerman shows Reli-gious School students the writing in a Torah scroll.
Some Reli-gious School students examine a Torah scroll.
Phot
ogra
phs
by P
aul H
elle
n
Neil Yerman explains to pre-school students how a quill is used to write in the Torah.
Neil Yerman shows pre-schoolers how to clean the ‘little Torah’ with a brush.
Phot
ogra
phs
by P
am H
amov
ich
Learning from our scribe
Photo of Naomi Shemer from her book Naomi Shemer No. 3
Holy Blossom Temple 8
The Gerald Schwartz/Heather Reisman Centre for Jewish Learning at Holy Blossom Temple
Study with our Rabbis
What’s the Deal with Reform Judaism? Rabbi Jason RosenbergSundays at 10.30 a.m.Feb. 19, 26 and Mar. 5Have you ever wondered what Reform Judaism is really all about? What do we stand for? What do we believe? Are we more than just Judaism-lite? Here is your chance to learn all about it, while your kids are in Religious School (open to all adults, of course). This three-part course will look at our history and our theology, and give you a chance to ask questions about our movement.
Although sessions two and three will build on the previous one(s), please feel free to join us even if you miss a class.
The Brilliance of the Rabbinic RevolutionRabbi John MoscowitzTuesdays at 7.30 p.m.Apr. 18 to June 6Ours is not the Judaism of the Bible, but that of the Rabbis. The Rabbis — in the fi rst number of centuries of the Common Era — brilliantly and cou-rageously rescued Judaism from ruin and irrelevance, fashioning a new Juda-ism out of the old, one based on study rather than on sacrifi ce.
Responsa LiteratureRabbi Yael Splansky
Thursdays at 10 a.m.May 4 to May 25
Every good question has always deserved a good answer. Responsa literature is the largest collection of Jewish text. We will look at some surprising Jewish questions and the rabbinic answers that followed. For example, can a shul accept a dona-tion from a crook? Is transgender surgery allowed? Is it okay to drive to shul on Shabbat? Can a woman become a rabbi?
Upcoming Learning
Brotherhood Breakfast Club: Is Anti-Semitism Ineradicable? If So, What Should We Do?Rabbi Michael Stroh, Rabbi Emeritus, Temple Har ZionSun. Feb. 19, at 9.30 a.m.Join us following Shacharit Services for breakfast at 9.30 a.m., and the presenta-tion at 10 a.m. All Temple members — men and women — are welcome.
Library Book Club: The Singing Fire by Lillian NattelKen Skolnik
Mon. Mar. 6, at 10 a.m.
From Antiquity to Modernity: the Wide Horizons of Jewish MusicCantor Benjamin Z. MaissnerTuesdays at 7.30 p.m. Mar. 14, 21 and 28
Abraham Joshua Heschel — A Philosophy of JudaismRabbi Jason RosenbergWednesdays at 7.30 p.m. Mar. 15, 22 and 29
We will learn about Heschel’s remarkable life and examine his book, God in Search of Man. All Temple members — men and women — are welcome.
On Mar. 15, Brotherhood invites you to a dinner before the session, at 6.30 p.m.
RSVP for the dinner to the Brotherhood hotline (ext. 530), at the Temple or e-mail us at [email protected].
The Heritage of Jewish Mysticism: What Can it Teach Us?Rabbi Michael StrohRabbi Emeritus, Temple Har Zion
Thursdays at 10.30 a.m. Mar. 16 to Apr. 6Registration required. Cost: $40.
Library Programming: The Place of Jewish Values in the World of PublishingCynthia Good, Malcolm Lester and Margie WolfeModerated by Adam SolTue. Mar. 21, at 7.30 p.m.Co-sponsored by Brotherhood and Sisterhood. For more information on Library programs, please call Anne Dublin (ext. 235), at the Temple.
Ongoing Learning
Shabbat Morning Torah Study: Genesis — When the World Was YoungRabbi John MoscowitzSaturdays at 9 a.m.What is the world view of the extra-ordinary book of Genesis? Can we trust T
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Our Gerald Schwartz/Heather Reisman Centre for Jewish Learning provides opportunities to come together for major public lectures, to study Torah and other literature, and to obtain the skills needed to lead a deeper Jewish life.
For more details on all our winter/spring 2006 lectures and programs, please call the School offi ce (ext. 256), at the Temple, or visit our Web site at www.holyblossom.org. All programs and lectures are open to the community, unless otherwise stated. For your convenience, our daytime programs during the week are marked with this symbol:
February 2006 9 Shevat/Adar 5766
The
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this book — both as a factual document and as the word of God? What is God’s plan for the Jewish People — and how do we fi t in today? We will continue to explore such questions in a line-by-line exploration of Genesis.
Learning Liturgy through Singing Jewish Music — Temple Singers Cantor Benjamin Z. MaissnerSundays at 10 a.m.Temple Singers participate in Shabbat Morning and Festival Services, study sessions and special concerts. For more details, please call Mari Lynn Rusak (ext. 224), at the Temple.
Intermediate HebrewDalia Alalouf, Hebrew SupervisorMondays at 7 p.m.Limited to Temple members. Registration required.
Advanced Hebrew GrammarRabbi Edward Goldfarb
Tuesdays at 11.30 a.m.Limited to Temple members.
Sisterhood Torah Study: Second Book of KingsRabbi Edward Goldfarb
Wednesdays at 9.30 a.m.This class will continue to delve into the passionate writings of our prophets. New and returning students are welcome.
The Yiddish NovelRabbi Edward Goldfarb
Wednesdays at 11 a.m. We will continue our study of the works of Yiddish author Haim Grade. A read-ing knowledge of Yiddish is desirable; however, all discussion will be in English. This course is open to the community; non-members will be charged a fee of $60.
A Foundation to Jewish Learning
Family Life Education
Thursdays at 10.30 a.m., Feb. 9 to Mar. 9Learn how to create a Jewish home life that reflects Jewish wisdom and richness of the Jewish calendar. This course may be taken as a series or as individual sessions.
Feb. 9 — Rabbi Yael Splansky, The Family Who Prays Together
See how the siddur comes to life as a manual of core Jewish values and ideals.
Feb. 16 — Debbie Spiegel, Shabbat at Home: More than Chicken Soup Make Shabbat a reality for your family.
Feb. 23 — Debbie Spiegel, Home for the Holidays Create memories by bringing the holidays to life.
Mar 2 — Rabbi Jason Rosenberg, Kashrut: Is it Significant for a Reform Jew Discover what these ancient customs can do to elevate your Jewish home and ennoble those who live there.
Mar. 9 — Rabbi Jason Rosenberg, What Happens after We Die Find out what our tradition has to say about the mysteries of life after death.
Rabbi Yael Splansky
Debbie Spiegel
Rabbi Jason Rosenberg
Are You B’Seder?
Debbie Spiegel, Interim Director of Education
Thursdays at 7.30 p.m., Mar. 9, 23 and 30
Give a little seder (order) to your Seder. Join us for a practical guide to preparing for the Passover holiday and make this Pesach stress-free. These creative information sessions will teach you how to make your holiday enjoyable for the whole family.
Mar. 9 — Preparing for the holidayLet’s take some time for some physical and spiritual cleaning! Learn about some of the resources available to prepare for your Seder.
Mar. 23 — Everyone can participateHow can we engage children at the Seder table? We’ll have a look at ways of making the Seder more child friendly.
Mar. 30 — Make it yoursWe’ll do some investigation into nuances for your celebration (e.g. Miriam’s Cup).
Apology In the last issue of the Bulletin, we incorrectly identifi ed Gerald Schwartz in the photo of special guests at Yossi Klein Halevi’s lecture. We apologize to Mr. Schwartz.
Pesach Workshops
Holy Blossom Temple 10
Marley Greenglass joins the Holy Blos-som Temple School staff as the new School Programs Co-ordina-tor. Marley brings a
plethora of experience in Jewish education. In her early career as a Jewish educator, Marley worked at Temple Har Zion as a teacher of young children, and realized the potential that all children have for learning.
She continued her experience at Har Zion as a supervisor of the Primary De-partment, and eventually co-ordinated the Har Zion Saturday School, the Confi rma-tion Program and the Student Teacher Program. Through the Student Teacher Program, Marley worked with teenagers to design a three-year program for student teachers, where, upon completion of the program, they were hired by the Religious School as teachers. This was quite an ac-complishment!
In her spare time, Marley devotes nu-merous hours to volunteer work. She has been part of the executive of her local Par-ent-Teacher Association of her children’s
Education Mattersby Deborah K. Spiegel, Interim Director of Education
Welcome Marley Greenglass
public school and has been involved with the Toronto Board of Jewish Education. Most recently, she has been the Co-chair of the Women’s Telethon for the UJA campaign for the past two years. She also serves on the Board of Directors of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the National Jewish Campus Life.
Marley will co-ordinate many of the special programs, including chugim in the Religious School, special events and programs for the Religious and Senior Schools. It is an honour and pleasure to work with Marley as she brings her energy and excitement to all of us.
Phot
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Marley Greenglass
G E N E R A T I O N t (for 20 and 30 somethings)
Shabbes Tish
Rabbi Yael Splansky and Aviva Chernick
Fridays at 9.30 p.m. Feb. 24, Mar. 31, Apr. 28, and May 26, 2006
We will meet once a month to celebrate Shabbat with wine and dessert, singing and study.
For more details, please call Cynthia Silverman (ext. 276), at the Temple.
Family Programming 2006
Family Skating PartySun. Feb 26, at 1 p.m.Dufferin Grove is a wonderful, truly family-friendly outdoor rink, and we will be there with our skates on. We will enjoy hot chocolate, cookies and maybe even a bonfi re — a perfect way to spend a winter’s day! RSVP to the Family Programming hotline (ext. 518), at the Temple.
Tot ShabbatWe welcome Shabbat with music, prayer, stories, crafts and more. Once a month, we also have a semi-potluck dinner. For more details or to register for a dinner, please call Olivia D’Souza (ext. 260), at the Temple. Mark these upcoming dates in your calendars: Feb. 17 (Gesher*); Mar. 3 (Service and dinner) and 17 (Service); Apr. 7 (Service and dinner) and 21 (Service).
* The Gesher Service is a kid-friendly Kabbalat Shabbat Service.
Junior Choir
On Dec. 18, 2005, our Junior Choir
made its debut at the Religious
School Chanukah assembly, and
did an excellent job. A huge yasher
koach goes out to the kids.
The Junior Choir will participate
in the city-wide Zimriyah to be
held at the Toronto Centre for the
Performing Arts on Sun. Feb. 12,
2006. Let us wish them a hearty
hatzlicha tova.
If you have a child in Grades
3 to 6 who loves to sing, the Junior
Choir would love to have him or
her join us. For more information,
please call me (ext. 252), at the
Temple, or simply have your child
show up for a rehearsal on any
Sunday at 12.15 p.m., when there
is Religious School. Send lunch and
a bottle of water.
— Lindi Rivers, Cantorial Soloist
February 2006 11 Shevat/Adar 5766
Seniors’ PROGRAMMING at H O L Y B L O S S O M
Arts and Literature
A CALL TO TEMPLE ARTISTS
To celebrate Holy Blossom Temple’s 150th anniversary, we invite our members to participate in a special exhibit on Sun. May 21, 2006. Details and entry forms are available in the Temple offi ce or on our Web site, at www.holyblossom.org/fi ne_arts.
Sisterhood
TU B’SHEVAT SEDER
Tue. Feb. 14, 2006, at 7 p.m.Please join Sisterood and HASBTY for a festive, one-of-a-kind seder. We will read from a special Tu B’Shevat Haggadah and snacks will be served. RSVP to the Sister-hood hotline (ext. 514), at the Temple before Feb. 10, 2006.
ANNUAL COOKING DEMONSTRATION
Rose ReismanWed. Apr. 5, 2006, at 7.15 p.m.Join us for an exciting evening of
Events and Announcementscooking, tasting and raffl e prizes with our guest chef, Rose Reisman. Tickets are available at the Temple offi ce, the Judaica Shop or by calling the Sisterhood hotline (ext. 514), at the Temple.
SISTERHOOD RETREAT — THE MIKVAH: MYTHS, TRUTHS AND POSSIBILITIES OF ORIGINAL WATER THERAPY
Rabbi Yael SplanskyFri. Apr. 7 to Sun. Apr. 9, 2006Horseshoe Valley Resort, BarrieTreat yourself to a weekend of study, worship, rest and good company, sharing with other women and celebrating Shabbat. Cost: $285 members; $330 non-members.
KALLAH — THE WONDERS OF DEATH
Rabbi John Moscowitz and Dr. Yoel AbellsThur. Apr. 27, 2006, at 9.30 a.m. The Donalda ClubSpend a day discussing the wonders and the miracles of death. Cost $32.
NOMINATIONS
Please call the Sisterhood hotline with your Board member nominations before Feb. 21, 2006.
To RSVP or for more details on Sister-hood programs, please call our hotline (ext. 514), at the Temple.
Greater Community
ARZA CANADA’S THIRD ANNUAL ISRAEL STUDY TRIP
Led by Joan Garson, President, ARZA Canada and Rabbi Sharon L. Sobel Fri. July 7 to Fri. July 14, 2006Through text study, dialogue, personal meetings and fi eld trips, we will examine the historical and modern relationship of Israel with Palestinians, women, Christians, the underprivileged and Israeli-Arabs as second-class citizens. For details, please e-mail Rabbi Sharon L. Sobel at [email protected], or Cheryl Englander at [email protected], or call (416) 630-0375.
M O N D AYS @ the TempleOh those Canadian winters! Some escape them by going
south, while others hibernate at home. Our seniors do not
let a little snow deter them. They come to the Temple
Mondays at 10 a.m., to socialize with friends, exercise,
enjoy lunch and hear interesting speakers. The cost for the
day is $2. (If we do cancel a program because of the weath-
er, we will let the Temple offi ce know as soon as possible.)
Feb. 27Telling Tales: Women Writers in the Middle EastRivanne Sandler, Professor of Modern Iran, University of Toronto
Mar. 6Daughters of the ArkAnna Morgan, Reporter, Canadian Jewish News and the Toronto Star
For more information, or to leave a message, please call
the Seniors’ hotline (ext. 517), at the Temple.
Holy Blossom Temple 12
Our Congregational Family 4 Adar 5766/Mar. 4, 2006 Meredith Clodman Jonatan, daughter of
Sara Clodman & Joe Jonatan
4 Adar 5766/Mar. 4, 2006 Sean Hacker Teper, son of Karen Hacker & Irv Teper
EngagementsInna Koldorf, daughter of Sofi a & Simon Koldorf, and Daniel
Kalechstein, son of Clara & Arnold Kalechstein, who will be married in July 2006.
In Memoriam
The congregation sympathizes with the recently bereaved families of:Michael Benson, son of Jeffrey & Piera Benson, brother of David
Benson, grandson of John BlissStanley Bernstein, husband of Syrelle Bernstein, father of Alan
Bernstein, David Bernstein and Lori Gotlieb, brother of Harvey Bernstein
Eva Carol, mother of Gertrude Gold, sister of Harvey BordenBert Cohen, husband of Muriel Cohen, father of Mark Cohen, Paul
Cohen and Peter Cohen, brother of George CohenCelia Goldman, mother of Arlene Goldman, David Goldman,
Leonard Goldman and Golda Goldman OliverEdith Elster Ruina, sister of Caroline Friedman, Irv Elster, Marvin
Elster and Phyllis EskinFanny Saunders, mother of Norman Saunders and Ron Saunders,
sister of Toby Lambert and Norman SlattThelma Savlov, mother of Alan Savlov, Barry Savlov and Leslie
Savlov, sister of Shirley ShulmanHarry Schwartz, husband of Isabel Schwartz, father of Maeta
Cavazzini, Alan Schwartz and David SchwartzChava Guz Segal, mother of Leonid Cherkson and Michael Sigal,
sister of David Guz and Hannah GuzEthel Sherwin, mother of Susan Campbell and Faye SwartzBruce Smith, husband of Dolores Smith, father of Leslie Smith,
Lorne Smith, Mark Smith and Ricky Smith, brother of Gert Smith, Leo Smith, and Ted Smith
Lillian Weinstein, mother of Caron Mirrett, Fern Perri, Susan Pustil, Shawnee Slan and Michael Weinstein
Sheldon Weinstein, father of Lisa Kozinn, Andrew Weinstein and Glenn Weinstein, brother of Rosalyn Leese and Elliot Weinstein
Avraham (Anthony) Wolman, husband of Malka Wolman, son of Frank Wolman
Mazal Tov
Morris Cooper, on his installation to the Board of Trustees of the Union for Reform Judaism at the Union’s recent Biennial Convention in Houston, Tex.
Tillie Leslie, on receiving the Volunteer Services Award for more than 50 years of dedicated service to Hadassah, and on becoming a great-grandmother to Kaia, daughter of Marla & Gary Dunne.
BirthsJennifer & Bryce Goosen on the birth of their daughter Aubrey Grace
Goosen. Proud grandparents are Annie & Michael Appleby and Louise & Dennis Goosen of Vancouver. Proud great-grandparents are Eleanor & Irving Appleby, Gertrude Diamond and Melvin Goosen.
Holly & Bernard Hellen on the birth of their son Benjamin Elijah Hellen. Proud grandparents are Joan & Jim Graham and Francie & Paul Hellen.
Beth & Mark Litwin on the birth of their son Russel Simon Litwin, brother to Jack and Marlow. Proud grandparents are Sharon & Howard Marcovitch, Ronnie Litwin, and Mary & Fred Litwin.
Shayla & Scott Orenstein on the birth of their daughter Paige Orenstein. Proud grandparents are Judi & Arny Donsky, Stephen & Diane Minsky, and Donna Orenstein & Michael Levine. Proud great-grandparents are Saul Shugar and Buddy Rotenberg. Paige is named in memory of her grandfather, Paul Irving Orenstein.
Lesley Goldstein & David Reuben on the birth of their son Justin Alexander Reuben, brother to Zachary. Proud grandparents are Bonnie & Ronald Goldstein and Ruth & Nelson Reuben.
B’nei Mitzvah
13 Shevat 5766/Feb. 11, 2006Natalie Eckler, daughter of Arlene Hofstader & David Eckler
20 Shevat 5766/Feb. 18, 2006 Jonathan Miller, son of Meredith Miller and Jeffrey Miller
27 Shevat 5766/Feb. 25, 2006Russell Lipa, son of Rhonda Richer & Timothy Lipa
February 2006 13 Shevat/Adar 5766
Name Date
Jonas Goldstein Feb. 27
Shirley Armstrong Gomes 27
Elizabeth Kertesz 27
Paul Rigor 27
Heinz Warschauer 27
Sophie Hausman 28
David Kaufman 28
Mort Levy 28
Belle Louise Miles 28
Mildred Sniderman 28
Sarah Bacher Mar. 1
Samuel David Borins 1
Arthur Cohen 1
Leo Danson 1
David Goodman 1
Sarah Krymalowsky 1
Herbert Rothschild 1
Helen Blanche Sherman 1
Memorial Plaques
Lights will be kindled in the
Sanctuary, for seven days, starting
the Saturday evening before the
anniversary date, to mark the
yahrzeit of the following:
Name Date
Rae Bookman Jan. 2*
Jacob Hertzman 13*
John Atkins 18*
Marcia Ezrin 19*
Harry Snitman 22*
Israel Brodziak Feb.1*
Eve Harris 11
Pearl Krugel 11
Melanie Miller 11
Molly Simmons 11
Bella Albright 12
Harry Alexander 12
William Feldstein 12
Erwin Farrel Taube 12
Susan Waintman 12
Joseph Bederman 13
Dr. Joseph Florence 13
Allen Gerald Rossman 13
Herbert C. Rothschild 13
Sara Lillian Smith 13
Samuel Bacher 14
Sydney Doctors 14
Ruth Katsh Feinberg 14
Rose Geldzaeler Harris 14
Max Levine 14
Louis Rapp 14
Ethel Resnick 14
Harris Toker 14
Avrom Waldman 14
Joseph Warsh 14
Willam Birn 15
Lena Frankel 15
Selena Rosenthal 15
Louis Shore 15
Johanna Mayer Frankel 16
Harry Hershoran 16
Annie Lokash 16
Wolfe Shoichet 16
Tillie Baker 17
Name Date
Samuel Michael Braun Feb. 17
Theresa Sapera 17
Gloria Shapiro 17
Alex Sherman 17
Melvyn David Soren 17
Samuel Drake Stanway 17
Illona Heller 18
Philip Plastow 18
Samuel Smith 18
Eugene Warschauer 18
Joseph Bleiberg 19
Maxwell Cohen 19
Sid Goldman 20
Harry Grossman 20
Maxwell Wolfe 20
Florence Alter 21
Ruth Brown 21
Albert Cohen 21
Samuel Roher 21
Arthur Sternberg 21
Mary Yolles 21
Pearl Bacher 22
David Braidberg 22
Shirley Finkelman 22
Dorothy Frankel 22
Ettie Gold 22
Bettie Kardish 22
Florence Lederman 22
Luis Alberto Quiroz 22
Joseph John Selby 22
Tillie Sussman 22
Livia Barto 23
Evelyn Dunkelman 23
Rose Goodman 23
Lena Emsig 24
Samuel Godfrey 24
Samuel Leibel 24
Emma Goldberger Liban 24
Earl Charles Lyons 24
Stanley Singer 24
Abraham Nashman 25
Rebecca Nowack 25
Rose Pulver 25
Sam Strauch 25
Aaron Goldstein 26
Michael Mayer Steinberg 26
Jacques Barruch 27
Frances Davidson 27
*Inadvertently omitted from the last Bulletin.
We thank our generous donors
Aid for Survivors of TerrorismMarika Favor, In Memory: The Bikur Cholim CommitteeDavid Ship, In Memory: Ellen Karabanow
Brotherhood FundCatherine Larkin, In Memory: Holy Blossom Temple Brotherhood
Ruth Borden Memorial Youth Award FundKarl Ungerman, In Memory: Harvey Borden
Jean Fine Seniors FundLillian Messinger, In Memory: Marilyn FarberDiana Morgulis, In Memory: Holy Blossom Temple Brotherhood
Floral FundNatalie Eckler, Bat Mitzvah: Arlene Hofstader & David EcklerMeredith Clodman Jonatan, Bat Mitzvah: Sara Clodman & Joe JonatanRussell Lipa, Bar Mitzvah: Rhonda Richer & Tim LipaSean Hacker Teper, Bar Mitzvah: Karen Hacker & Irv TeperJaclyn Teal Winkler, Bat Mitzvah: Margery & Vladimir Winkler Gardner Family FundAnne Dublin, In Appreciation: Zita Gardner
Holy Blossom Temple FoundationIda Gold, In Memory: Lorraine & Donald LoebDavid Hart, Mazal Tov on Receiving Award: Loraine & Donald Loeb; Sheila & Bob
SmolkinLesley & Allan Offman, Birth of Daughter: Judy Nyman & Harley MintzShirley Pierce, In Memory: Jocelyn & Shia SalemLester Pink, In Memory: Randi & Alan Garfi nkelAnn & Gary Posen, Marriage of Daughter: Judy Nyman & Harley MintzDora Prince, In Memory: Lorraine & Donald LoebAndrew Schwartz, In Memory: Judy Nyman & Harley Mintz
Name Date
William Willer Mar. 1
Irving Aaron 2
Celia Cooper 2
Henry J. Faber 2
Harvey Fingold 2
Earle Pullan 2
Samuel Sax 2
Sydney David Conn 3
Samuel Dalgorf 3
Walter Engel 3
Abram Kunen 3
Israel Marder 3
Max Cole 4
Maurice Collins 4
Joan Freeman 4
George Gruber 4
Nathan Shapiro 4
Anne Snider 4
Holy Blossom Temple 14
Robert Trope, In Memory: Susan & Barry BordenJack Young, Special Birthday: Aaron Lipson and Family; Peter, Carrie, Jordan and
Taylor Lipson; Joan & Ray Moses; Joy & Perry Young
Isenberg Endowment FundJoe Ederman, In Memory: Tami, Perry, Ronni and David Isenberg; Carol, Steve, Lee
and Elysse PilonEvie & Sidney Isenberg, 50th Wedding Anniversary: Sheryl & Michael Ederman;
Tami & Perry Isenberg; Carol & Steve PilonEvie Isenberg, Get Well Soon: Sheryl & Michael Ederman; Tami & Perry Isenberg;
Carol & Steve Pilon
Joan Kerbel Leadership Development FundBarry Borden, In Honour: Holy Blossom Temple SisterhoodSara Charney, In Honour: Judy Malkin & Elliott Jacobson; Pnina Margolese
Library Book FundJohn Freund, In Honour of Birthday: Freund FamilyJill Hertzman, Mazal Tov: Carmen HorvathBebe Jacobs, In Honour: Carmen Horvath
Beverley Colman Lokash Scholarship FundRalph Berger, In Memory: Beverley Lokash
Dow and Fredzia Marmur Program for Educational ExcellenceGeneral Donation: Hope SealyBelle Grant, In Memory: Ellen KarabanowRabbi Dow Marmur, In Honour: Nancy & Sam Ruth
Musical Legacy FundCantor Benjamin & Hope Maissner, Mazal Tov: Shirley Kofman; Myrna SandlerRalph Berger, In Memory: Holy Blossom Temple SingersCantor Lindi Rivers, In Appreciation: Janet & Michael RyvalSusan Baskin & Jack Micay, Mazal Tov: Pnina MargoleseMarika Savor, In Memory: Ellen KarabanowDavid Ship, In Memory: Susanne & Stuart Egier; Margaret Hart; Ron Hart; Judy
Out of the ColdJenni Diamond, Mazal Tov: Matthew, Aviva, Jessie and Allie GottliebMarika Favor, In Memory: Susanne & Stuart Egier, Fran & Murray Ellis; Judy Malkin
& Elliott Jacobson; Linda & Abe NeufeldShirley Gladstone, In Memory: Linda & Abe Neufeld; Barbara Organ, Eleanor &
Hartley SteinbergKathy & Maurice Green, Mazal Tov: Myrna SandlerTerrye & Jack Kuper, Mazal Tov: Myrna SandlerAnita & Leon Lapidus, Happy Thanksgiving: Nancy & Lloyd PollackLinda & Abe Neufeld, In Appreciation: Fran & Murray EllisBrenda White, Happy Holidays: Nancy & Lloyd PollackHoly Blossom Temple Stagecraft Company, In Appreciation: Janet & Michael RyvalRobert Trope, In Memory: Michelle Katz & Larry Blumenthal, and Jesse and MiraMeghan Waitzer, Mazal Tov: Laurenne Kredentser and Family
Rabbis’ Discretionary FundRabbi John Moscowitz, In Appreciation: Phyllis & Paul Bordo; Janet & Michael
Ryval and FamilyRabbi Yael Splansky, In Appreciation: Albright Family; Heather Shapiro & Terry
Axelrod; Sharyn & Hershell Ezrin; Janet & Michael Ryval and FamilyRabbi Jason Rosenberg, In Appreciation: Barbara Steinberg & Lorne Gladstone;
Marcia & Barry Gordon, Aviva & Matthew GottliebCantor Benjamin Z. Maissner, In Honour: Kathy & Maurice GreenCantor Benjamin Z. Maissner, In Appreciation: Phyllis & Paul BordoRabbi Edward Goldfarb, In Appreciation: Eleonor & Louis London; Ken Skolnik;
Joy & Perry YoungCantor Lindi Rivers, In Appreciation: Marcia & Barry Gordon
To make a donation to any of our existing funds, please call the Foundation Office, at (416) 789-3291, ext. 265.
To learn more about how you can support the Holy Blos som Tem ple Foundation, or to establish a new fund, please call Deborah Tameanko, at (416) 789-3291, ext. 265.
To make a donation to MAZON Canada, please call (416) 783-7554.
To make a donation to the Toronto Community Forest Fund, please call Sybil Gor don at (416) 489-5709.
We appreciate your supportHoly Blossom Temple appreciates all donations to our funds, how ev er due to rising costs, cards will only be sent for donations of $18 or more. We will con tin ue to rec og nize donations of $18 or more in the Bulletin.
We apologize but due to space constraints, not all do na tions will ap pear in the Bulletin issue closest to the date on which the con tri bu tion was made. Donations in this issue were received by Dec. 23, 2005.
Contacts for Donations
Sara & Michael Gelfand, In Honour: Elise Pulver & Neil DlinShiva Readers, In Appreciation: Family of the Late Gerrie Speiegel
Ralph Roger Camp Scholarship FundRalph Berger, In Memory: Jackie & Howard Roger
Nancy Ruth Educational FundDavid Hart, Mazal Tov on Award: Nancy & Sam Ruth
Lorraine Sandler Tribute FundRhonda Krandel, Best Wishes: Mira Goldfarb & Adam Berkowitz
Shacharit FundRalph Berger, In Memory: Estelle, David and Ted LatchmanSamuel Bernstein, Yahrzeit: Tema & Irwin TitlePauline Cohen, Yahrzeit: Joy & Charles CohenHenry Dan, Yahrzeit: Peter DanJerry Diamond, Special Birthday: Marlene & Joe SmithLuba Ginsburg, Yahrzeit: Dora TrackFeige Gold, In Memory: Esther & Marvin TileAlice Herman, In Memory: Carole ZuckerNorman Kaplan, Yahrzeit: Etienne & Aubrey KaplanShirley Sassen, Yahrzeit: Etienne & Aubrey KaplanMarika Savor, In Memory: Nora & John FreundAbraham Schopp, In Memory: Tanni & Charles KadinMinnie Schopp, In Memory: Tanni & Charles KadinRosalyn Shapiro, Yahrzeit: Barry ShapiroFlorence Shear, Yahrzeit: Bonnie Lawrence Shear & Mel ShearGeorge Shear, Yahrzeit: Bonnie Lawrence Shear & Mel ShearDavid Ship, In Memory: Nora & John Freund; Helen ShermanAnne Tile, In Memory: Esther & Marvin TileEsther Track, Yahrzeit: Dora TackElaine Winer, Yahrzeit: Matthew Gottlieb
Leonard Wolfe Educational FundMarcelle Esses, Speedy Recovery: Honey WolfeFrances Harnick, In Memory: Honey Wolfe
Youth AwardsBarry Borden, In Appreciation: Alan Bardikoff
February 2006 15 Shevat/Adar 5766
This month @ Holy Blossom February/March 2006Shevat/Adar 5766
Thur. Feb. 9 11 Shevat10.30 a.m. Family Life Education8 p.m. Beyond the Chuppah
Sun. Feb. 12 14 Shevat9 a.m. Grade 4 Parent/Student Program1 p.m. Family Programming’s Skating Party
Mon. Feb. 13 15 Shevat10 a.m. Mondays @ the Temple, with Rabbi Yael Splansky7 p.m. Intermediate Hebrew
Tue. Feb. 14 16 Shevat11.30 a.m. Advanced Hebrew7 p.m. Sisterhood/HABSTY Tu B’Shevat Seder7.30 p.m. Generation t’s Yoga with a Twist
Wed. Feb. 15 17 Shevat9.30 a.m. Sisterhood Torah Study11 a.m. The Yiddish Novel7.30 p.m. Dimensions of Violence, with Rabbi Jonathan Crane
Thur. Feb. 16 18 Shevat10.30 a.m. Family Life Education8 p.m. Beyond the Chuppah
Sat. Feb. 18 20 Shevat9 a.m. Torah Study
Sun. Feb. 19 21 Shevat9.30 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast Club, with Rabbi Michael Stroh10.30 a.m. What’s the Deal with Reform Judaism, with Rabbi Jason Rosenberg
Mon. Feb. 20 22 Shevat10 a.m. Mondays @ the Temple, with Lindi Rivers7 p.m. Intermediate Hebrew
Tue. Feb. 21 23 Shevat11.30 a.m. Advanced Hebrew7.30 p.m. Generation t’s Yoga with a Twist
Wed. Feb. 22 24 Shevat9.30 a.m. Sisterhood Torah Study11 a.m. The Yiddish Novel7.30 p.m. Dimensions of Violence, with Rabbi Jonathan Crane
Thur. Feb. 23 25 Shevat10.30 a.m. Family Life Education7.30 p.m. Pretzel Wisdom (Israel Movie Night)8 p.m. Beyond the Chuppah
As dates and times may change without notice, please confi rm all information by calling the Temple – at any time – to access This Week @ Holy Blossom recording.
For Worship Services, please see page 2.
Fri. Feb. 24 26 Shevat9.30 p.m. Generation t’s Shabbes Tish6 p.m. Senior Kindergarten and Grade 1 B'yachad Family Dinner
Sat. Feb. 25 27 Shevat9 a.m. Torah Study
Sun. Feb. 26 28 Shevat9 a.m. Grade 3 Parent/Student Program9 a.m. Religious School Shacharit Program10.30 a.m. What’s the Deal with Reform Judaism, with Rabbi Jason Rosenberg
Mon. Feb. 27 29 Shevat10 a.m. Mondays @ the Temple, with Rivanne Sandler7 p.m. Intermediate Hebrew
Tue. Feb. 28 30 Shevat11.30 a.m. Advanced Hebrew7.30 p.m. Generation t’s Yoga with a Twist
Wed. Mar. 1 1 Adar9.30 a.m. Sisterhood Torah Study11 a.m. The Yiddish Novel7.30 p.m. Dimensions of Violence, with Rabbi Jonathan Crane
Thur. Mar. 2 2 Adar10.30 a.m. Family Life Education8 p.m. Beyond the Chuppah
Fri. Mar. 3 3 Adar6 p.m. Tot Shabbat Service and Dinner
Sat. Mar. 4 4 Adar9 a.m. Torah Study
Sun. Mar. 5 5 Adar10.30 a.m. What’s the Deal with Reform Judaism, with Rabbi Jason Rosenberg
Mon. Mar. 6 6 Adar10 a.m. Mondays @ the Temple, with Anna Morgan10 a.m. Library Book Club, with Ken Skolnik7 p.m. Intermediate Hebrew
Tue. Mar. 7 7 Adar11.30 a.m. Advanced Hebrew
Wed. Mar. 8 8 Adar9.30 a.m. Sisterhood Torah Study11 a.m. The Yiddish Novel7.30 p.m. Dimensions of Violence, with Rabbi Jonathan Crane
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 Pres i dent: John A. Geller; President: Alan Garfinkel; Senior Rabbi: John Moscowitz; Associate Rabbi: Yael Splansky; Associate Rabbi: Jason Rosenberg; Rabbi: Edward Goldfarb; Cantor: Benjamin Z. Maissner; Interim Director of Education: Deborah K. Spiegel; Rabbi Emeritus: Dow Marmur; Senior Schol ar: W. Gunther Plaut; Executive Director: Benjamin Applebaum; Holy Blossom Temple Foundation Chair: Judy Nyman; Bulletin Committee Chair: Richard Rotman; Bulletin Editor: Judy Nyman.
Design and Production: Holy Blossom Temple was found ed in 1856 and is af fil i at ed with the Union for Reform Judaism and the Canadian Council for Reform Judaism.
Holy Blossom Temple 16
1950 Bathurst StreetToronto, ON M5P 3K9
Canada PostPublications Mail
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Last Wordby Rabbi Yael Splansky
The last mitzvah
The centerpiece of our celebrations for Holy Blossom Temple’s 150th anniversary will be Torat Chaim, our Sefer Torah writing project.
The last mitzvah of the Torah commands: “Gather the people — men, women, children, and the strangers in your com-munities … And, write down this poem for yourselves and teach it to the people of Israel.” (Deuteronomy 31:12–19). Torah is referred to as a poem or a song that every individual must write, implying that each of us is capable of writing it.
Who is a scribe?When we consider how much knowledge and skill it takes to write a Torah scroll, how can each one of us be expected to ful-fi ll this mitzvah? The Talmud (Menachot, 30a) asserts that one who commissions a
ritual scribe to write even one letter on one’s behalf is considered to have fulfi lled this mitzvah. Thus, Torah scribe Neil Yer-man will guide us throughout a year of writing our own Sefer Torah.
And yet, in Moses Maimonides’ 12th-century code of Jewish law, the Mishnah Torah, the words “write for yourselves” are emphasized. One must not write a Torah and give it away for another to use. When it comes to Torah study, we are supposed to be selfi sh.
Maimonides also asserts that even if one inherits a Torah scroll, one must still write a Torah of one’s own. This teaches us that there is something about this mitzvah that must be experienced fi rst hand. He explains: “If one writes it with one’s own hand, it is as if one has received it directly from Sinai.”
While every Jew is commanded to put quill to parchment, tradition allows for the mitzvah to be fulfi lled by proxy. And yet, when it comes to this Torah love song offered by God to our People and back again, every effort should be made to take
part in the direct experience, which calls up memories as old as Sinai and creates memories for future Jewish living.
Living TorahWhen this last mitzvah of Deuteronomy is held up to the fi rst from Genesis, “Be fruitful and multiply” (Genesis 2), it seems as if the ultimate purpose of life itself is, in fact, to “write for yourselves a Torah.” The mystics take this as a metaphor that each one of us is writing our own Torah as we live out our days. A life unfolds on the parchment.
Ultimately, our Torah is identical with God’s. We desire for ourselves what God desires for us — a life of purpose and meaning. When we stray from the one shared Torah, we fi nd ourselves unfulfi lled and unsatisfi ed. And so we continue writing and rewriting the story of our life, until the words are one and the same as God’s sacred words.
To fi nd out how you can fulfi ll this mitzvah, please call Deborah Tameanko (ext. 265), at the Temple.
Rabbi Yael Splansky will lead an interactive, text-based monthly discussion as part of an outreach initiative. Enjoy the company of women who span the generations, while studying what makes each month of the Jewish calendar unique. Celebrate Rosh Chodesh, which, according to tradition, was God’s gift to women. Dessert and coffee will be served. Bring a friend.
Adar Tue. Feb. 28, 2006 Nisan Wed. Mar. 29, 2006 Iyar Thur. Apr. 27, 2006 Sivan – Mon. May 29, 2006
Rabbi Yael SplanskyMiles Nadal Jewish Community Centre (Bloor and Spadina), at 8 p.m.
Rosh Chodesh Celebration and StudyRosh Chodesh Celebration and Study
