JEWISH JOURNEYS
2019-20/5780 A CATALOG OF SERVICES, PROGRAMS & EVENTS
Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester
2125 Westchester Avenue East
Rye, NY 10580
914-967-4382
www.c-e-w.org
Please check our website and Emanumail throughout the year for updates and changes to our program scheduling.
September 2019
My Facebook feed is full of talk about affirming values. In political posts, cultural posts,
artistic posts, and reposts of newspaper columns, my friends and family, colleagues and
acquaintances all talk about the importance of living according our highest ideals. This
sounds good but can easily get lost in the day-to-day cares and concerns with which we
contend each day. So, how can we see beyond those daily tasks, remind ourselves of our
higher calling, and live our best lives?
The programs in this catalog provide a way to start on that journey, a way to live a life
more filled with meaning and purpose, intellect and spirit. While we certainly cannot offer
all the answers, our combination of worship services, social action projects, youth
programs, films, speakers, adult education, and more provide frequent opportunities to rise
above the noise, clarify our values, and focus on what really matters.
This year, our programming focuses on the American Jewish Experience. American Jewish
musician Neshama Carlebach, noted social justice activist Rabbi Menachem Creditor, adult
education focused on Reform belief and practice, social action projects that impact our
community, and countless other ways for us to come together to consider the unique place
of Jews in America and the ways that being American has impacted the Jewish people. In
this multi-cultural society – with the re-emergence of anti-Semitism – the theme could not
be more timely or important.
Please peruse these pages. When something seems interesting mark it in your calendar and
call a friend to join you. Life is so full of noise, with these programs we can begin to filter
out what is really important.
L’Shalom,
Rabbi Howard J. Goldsmith
RABBI’S MESSAGE
Seek & Discover
Jewish study leads to vitality that keeps our minds sharp and our souls searching. Rather
than relativism, Judaism confronts us with issues that help to clarify our place in history
and our place in our world. Classes, lectures, text study, book clubs, Single Malt Torah,
and the Women’s Study Group; see what you can discover.
Family Time
Family is the center of Jewish life. At our temple, your family will spend quality time
together living out the values that we all hold most dear and creating memories that will
last a lifetime. Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester is your family’s antidote to our
fast-paced, digital, over-programmed society.
Mix and Mingle
The center of our congregation is our sense of community. We celebrate together, comfort
each other, forge friendships and make connections - that is what we can uniquely offer as
a synagogue.
Reflect & Elevate
We gather for Shabbat, holy days, festivals, memorial services and life-cycle events to reflect
on the themes of our lives as they echo through our traditions. Through songs and readings,
sermons and theatrics, sharing and quiet, we find our lives uplifted.
Step-Up & Give-Back
We live in safety and security, with an abundance unimaginable for past generations.
Donating our time and resources to worthy causes shows our gratitude for the plenty we
enjoy. These acts of tikkun olam (repairing the world) allow us to express our Jewish
identity in a fulfilling, important way.
ICON GUIDE
As a congregation committed to meeting you where you are on your Jewish Journey, we
are determined to make it easy for you to identify the points of connection that most
appeal to you; this way you can bring holiness, community and wisdom to your own life
while adding strength to our congregation. Watch for these icons in materials from the
temple and religious school. Each icon answers the question: Why should I come?
VISION
A Community Dedicated to Celebrating Modern Jewish Life
Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester is committed to continuously fostering
Reform Jewish life among all our congregants. There are three essential pillars to
realizing this vision:
Instilling Jewish Values
We are committed to instilling and encouraging the practice of ethical and moral values. This
includes the mission of extending acts of charity within and beyond the Jewish community.
Worshipping and Reflecting
We encourage active participation in Shabbat and holiday services, and activities programs as
a means of educating, building Jewish community, and sharing traditions. We aspire to
participatory services attended by all age groups.
Learning and Studying
We believe in studying Torah and texts of our tradition and relating them to
the modern world. We embrace the concept of inter-generational study, family education and
chevrutah, study groups of people coming together to learn and to discuss.
Through the implementation of these three pillars, we hope to strengthen a sense of
community among our geographically diverse and multi-generational congregation. We
welcome all to join us in interpreting Judaism, so that it may continue to be a source of
meaning and inspiration for our time.
Board of Trustees
Officers
Emily Cohen
Co-President
Darren Fogel
Co-President
Maj Wickstrom
Vice President
Larry Cohen
Treasurer
MJ Wolff
Corporate Secretary
Michael Barnett
Wendy Rowden
Trustees
Patty Chernick
David Fried
Melissa Gaynor
Bill Geller
Aaron Goldstein
Liz Grill
Scott Hirsch
Mark Lerner
Randy Levitt
Marcy Modica
Jaime Morris
Larry Rutkovsky
Marc Schwartz
Ginny Weisman
DIRECTORY
Staff
Howard J. Goldsmith ext. 13
Rabbi
Meredith Stone ext. 19
Cantor
Jade Ross ext. 15
Assistant Rabbi, Director of Education
Jane Dubro ext. 21
Youth Activities and Program Director
Abbie Levitt ext. 18
Temple Administrator
Tal Drori ext. 12
Religious School Administrator
Dan O’Connor ext. 11
Administrative Assistant
Denise Eisler ext. 14
Accountant
Enrique Torres ext. 26
Director of Facilities
Emeriti
Daniel S. Wolk ext. 11
Rabbi Emeritus
Marcie Aiuvalasit ext. 12
Religious Educator Emerita
CONTENTS
Reflect & Elevate: Shabbat and Religious Services
Pages 1-3 Friday Night Worship Services
Pages 4 Friday Night Worship Services by Type
Page 5 Young Families Committee Holiday Celebrations
Pages 6-8 Holiday Worship & Celebrations
Page 9 Yizkor Services
Page 9 Saturday Morning Beit Midrash
Page 10 Reflections Workshops with Cantor Stone
Page 10 B’nei Mitzvah
Step-Up & Give Back: Volunteering & Community Projects
Page 11 Intergenerational Social Action Opportunities
Page 11 Social Action Drives
Pages 12-13 Ongoing Social Action Opportunities
Page 14 Committees in Community
Mix & Mingle
Page 15 Gallery Openings
Page 15 Mah Jongg & Canasta
Page 15 Jared Dubro Legacy Fund Bingo Blingo and Game Night
Page 16 Next Step
Page 16 Challah Baking
Page 16 Westchester Chamber Music Society
Page 17 Sunday Film Series
Pages 18-20 Other Community Events
Seek & Discover
Pages 21-22 Beit Midrash
Page 22 Women’s Study Group
Page 22 Single Malt Torah
Page 23 Political Staffer Meetings
Page 23 Book Club and Books & Bites
Page 24 Engaging Aging
Page 24 Westchester Jewish Council’s Night of Jewish Learning
Featured Speakers & Programs
Page 25 Sukkot Open House at the Goldsmiths’
Page 25 Kristallnacht Commemoration with Guest Speaker Ed Cohen
Page 25 Cantor Earl Rogers Tribute Sabbath with Neshama Carlbach
Page 26 Sacred Stories Social Justice Shabbat featuring the Isaac Memorial Lecture with Rabbi Menachem Creditor
Page 26 International Holocaust Remembrance Day with Survivor Jack Hersch
Page 27 I’m a Cultural Jew: Wine
Page 27 Community Yom HaShoah Service at Emanu-El
CONTENTS
CONTENTS
Religious School & Youth
Page 28 The Bauman-Green Pre-K and Kindergarten Program
Page 28 Young Families Committee Events
Page 29 Family Learning Shabbat
Page 29 Family Friendly Shabbat Services
Pages 30 Special Religious School & Hebrew School Events
Page 31 The Farah Family Hineini Program (7th Grade)
Page 32 Academy (8th Grade)
Page 33 Confirmation (9th & 10th Grades)
Page 34 Youth Group (8th - 12th Grades)
Page 34 Israel Fellows (11th & 12th Grades)
Friday Night Worship Services
“More than the Jews have kept Shabbat, Shabbat has kept the Jews.” - Ahad Ha’am
Together we explore the many facets of Jewish worship by approaching our tradition from a variety
of perspectives. Each one offers another way to understand the story of our people.
REFLECT & ELEVATE
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September 6
7:00pm Gallery Opening: MJ Wolff
7:30pm Sacred Stories: Pop Shabbat
September 13
6:00pm Shabbat BBQ Dinner
7:00pm Opening Shabbat
& Consecration
September 20
6:00pm Pre-Neg
6:30pm Early Service
September 27
7:30pm Shabbat Service
October 4
6:00pm Pre-Neg
6:30pm Shabbat Shuvah:
Sabbath of Repentance
October 11
6:00pm Pre-Neg
6:30pm Early Service
October 18
6:00pm Shabbat Dinner
7:00pm Shabbat! Sukkot! Simchat Torah!
October 25
7:30pm Sacred Stories Shabbat
November 1
6:00pm Pre-Neg
6:30pm Early Service
November 8
7:30pm Kristallnacht Commemoration
with Guest Speaker Ed Cohen
November 15
7:30pm Shabbat Service
November 22
6:00pm Religious School Dinner
6:30pm Religious School Family Learning
6:30pm Gallery Opening: Charlie Cooper
7:00pm Family Learning Shabbat Service
with Musical Guest Shira Kline
November 29
6:30pm Lay Led Service
December 6
7:30pm Cantor Earl Rogers Tribute Sabbath
with Musical Guest
Neshama Carlebach
December 13
6:30pm Lay Led Service
December 20
6:00pm Shabbat Dinner
7:00pm Chanukah Celebration!
Shabbat Service Key: ♫ Band Handsfree/Prayers projected Family Friendly
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Friday Night Worship Services (Cont.)
REFLECT & ELEVATE
2
December 27
6:30pm Lay Led Service
January 3
7:30pm Exploring Our Liturgy
January 10
7:30pm Honoring The Farah Family Hineini
Program Students and Parents
January 17
7:30pm Sacred Stories:
Social Justice Shabbat featuring
the Isaac Memorial Lecture
with Rabbi Menachem Creditor
January 24
6:00pm Pre-Neg
6:30pm Early Service
January 31
6:00pm Pre-Neg
6:30pm Early Service
February 7
6:00pm Religious School Dinner
6:30pm Religious School Family Learning
7:00pm Family Learning Shabbat Service
February 14
7:30pm Shabbat Service
February 21
6:30pm Lay Led Service
February 28
7:00pm Gallery Opening: Tom Bernstein
7:30pm Shabbat Service
March 6
7:15pm Pre-Purim Cocktails
7:30pm Purim: Will Burt Bacharach
Finally Meet the Megillah?
March 13
7:30pm Union Prayer Book Service:
A Tribute to Our
Reform Heritage
March 20
6:00pm Pre-Neg
6:30pm Early Service
March 27
7:30pm I'm A Cultural Jew: Wine
April 3
7:30pm Shabbat Service
April 10
7:30pm Shabbat Service
April 17
6:00pm Pre-Neg
6:30pm Early Service
April 24
7:30pm Yom HaAtzmaut & Honoring
Our Graduating Seniors
May 1
7:30pm Samuel L. and Jane L. Friedman
Lecture on Peace
& Understanding
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Friday Night Worship Services (Cont.)
REFLECT & ELEVATE
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May 8
5:30pm Pizza Truck & Mitzvah Projects
6:30pm Mitzvah Shabbat Service
7:00pm Pizza Truck & Mitzvah Projects
May 15
7:30pm Sacred Stories: Exploring Our Liturgy
May 22
6:30pm Lay Led Service
May 29
7:30pm Confirmation & Shavuot Shabbat
June 5
7:30pm Shabbat Service
June 12
6:00pm Congregant Art Salon Opening
6:30pm Annual Meeting
7:30pm I'm A Cultural Jew: Film
June 19
6:00pm Pre-Neg
6:30pm Early Service
June 26
6:30pm Summer Shabbat Services Begin
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Friday Night Worship by Service Type
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REFLECT & ELEVATE
Family Learning Shabbat
Experience classroom Hebrew as it comes to life during our innovative, musical, family learning
Shabbat experiences! Our re-envisioned family learning experiences for our students and their
families, a core component of Jewish education at Congregation Emanu-El, will take place on
Friday evenings to bring together all our students have learned as we celebrate Shabbat with
family and friends.
November 22
6:00pm Religious School Dinner
6:30pm Religious School Family Learning
7:00pm Shabbat Service with
Musical Guest Shira Kline
February 7
6:00pm Religious School Dinner
6:30pm Religious School Family Learning
7:00pm Shabbat Service
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Sacred Stories Shabbat The joyful music of our band and the Temple Tones uplifts these services. We’re inspired
by the sacred sparks we see in ordinary and extraordinary stories congregants share with us all.
Our thematic Sacred Stories Shabbat services combine congregant reflections with a musical twist,
guest speaker, or deeper learning. All of these services inspire as they connect us to each other and
our tradition.
September 6, 7:30pm
Sacred Stories: Pop Shabbat
October 25, 7:30pm
Sacred Stories Shabbat
January 17, 7:30pm
Sacred Stories: Social Justice Shabbat
featuring the Isaac Memorial Lecture with
Rabbi Menachem Creditor
May 15, 7:30pm
Sacred Stories: Exploring Our Liturgy
May 8
5:30pm Pizza Truck & Mitzvah Projects
6:30pm Mitzvah Shabbat Service
7:00pm Pizza Truck & Mitzvah Projects
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REFLECT & ELEVATE
Young Families Committee Holiday Celebrations
“From generation to generation...” - From the morning liturgy
We are committed to helping young families begin their Jewish Journeys. Bring your
children, nieces, nephews, grandchildren… any little one who is special in your life. All
Young Families Committee events are free, open to the community and appropriate for
ages 6 months through 2nd grade. Start the story for the next generation.
Monday, September 30
3:00pm Rosh Hashanah Young Families Service
3:30pm Rosh Hashanah Taste of Sweetness Celebration
Wednesday, October 9
2:15pm Yom Kippur Young Families Service
Sunday, October 27
10:45am Young Families Celebration of Shabbat
Sunday, December 8
10:45am Young Families Chanukah Celebration
Sunday, March 8
10:45am Young Families Purim Celebration
Sunday, March 29
10:45am Young Families Passover Celebration
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REFLECT & ELEVATE
Holiday Worship & Celebrations
“Lovingly, God, You have given us the gift of festivals for joy and holy days for happiness…”
- From the Festival Kiddush
We join together to observe and celebrate the holy days and festivals that allow us to relive the
story of our people. [Note: We celebrate many holidays on the nearest Friday evening.]
Saturday, September 21
7:00pm Community Selichot Program at Westchester Reform Temple
8:00pm Dessert Reception
8:30pm Service
Sunday, September 29
7:30pm Erev Rosh Hashanah Service
Monday, September 30
10:00am Rosh Hashanah: Morning Service
12:00pm Rosh Hashanah: Reception
1:45pm Rosh Hashanah: Youth Service
3:00pm Rosh Hashanah: Young Families Service
(followed by Taste of Sweetness Celebration at 3:30pm)
Tuesday, October 1
10:15am Rosh Hashanah Day 2 Nature Walk at Edith G. Read Sanctuary
11:00am Tashlich at Edith G. Read Sanctuary
Friday, October 4
6:00pm Pre-Neg
6:30pm Shabbat Shuvah: Sabbath of Repentance
Tuesday, October 8
6:00pm Kol Nidre Service
8:30pm Kol Nidre Service
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REFLECT & ELEVATE
Holiday Worship & Celebrations (Cont.)
Wednesday, October 9
10:00am Yom Kippur: Morning Service
1:15pm Yom Kippur: Youth Service
2:15pm Yom Kippur: Young Families Service
3:00pm Yom Kippur: Afternoon Service
3:30pm Yom Kippur: Healing Service
4:00pm Yom Kippur: Yizkor Service
4:45pm Yom Kippur: N'ilah/Concluding Service
5:30pm Yom Kippur: Break Fast
Thursday, October 17
6:30pm Women’s Study Group Sukkot Dinner with Author Barbara Ostfeld
Friday, October 18
6:00pm Shabbat Dinner
7:00pm Shabbat! Sukkot! Simchat Torah!
Saturday, October 19
4:00pm Sukkot Open House at the Goldsmiths’
Monday, October 21 7:30am Shmini Atzeret/Simchat Torah Yizkor
Thursday, November 21
7:30pm ICLC Interfaith Thanksgiving Service
Thursday, December 19
6:30pm Women’s Study Group Chanukah Dinner
Friday, December 20
6:00pm Shabbat Dinner
7:00pm Chanukah Celebration!
Friday, March 6
7:30pm Purim: Will Burt Bacharach Finally Meet the Megillah?
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REFLECT & ELEVATE
Holiday Worship & Celebrations (Cont.)
Thursday, April 2 6:30pm Women’s Study Group Passover Dinner
Thursday, April 9
9:00am Passover Morning Service
Wednesday, April 15 7:30am Passover Yizkor Memorial Service
Monday, April 20
7:30pm Community Yom HaShoah Service at Emanu-El
Friday, April 24
7:30pm Yom HaAtzmaut & Honoring Our Graduating Seniors
Friday, May 29
9:00am Shavuot Yizkor
Friday, May 29
7:30pm Confirmation & Shavuot Shabbat Service
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REFLECT & ELEVATE
Saturday Morning Beit Midrash
At the start of each Saturday Beit Midrash session we will have a brief service with an
opportunity to say Kaddish. For a full schedule and description of Beit Midrash, see
pages 21-22. We look forward to learning with you!
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Saturday, September 14, 9:00am
God, Torah, Israel
Saturday, October 19, 9:00am
Creation, Revelation, Redemption
Saturday, November 9, 9:00am
Theodicy
Saturday, March 14, 9:00am
Tikkun Olam & Justice
Saturday, March 21, 9:00am
Three Israels
Saturday, April 4, 9:00am
Worldwide Jewish Community
Saturday, May 30, 9:00am
Progressive Judaism in Israel
Saturday, June 13, 9:00am
Conclusions and New Beginnings
Saturday Sessions:
Yizkor
“May God remember forever my loved ones who have gone to their eternal rest.”
- From the Prayer of Remembrance
Four times a year, we come together as a community to remember our loved ones who
have passed away. They live on through our memories bringing blessing to us all. [Note:
the Sukkot/Shemini Atzeret, Passover, and Shavuot Yizkor services last half an hour.]
Wednesday, October 9, 4:00pm Yom Kippur Yizkor
Monday, October 21, 7:30am Shmini Atzeret/Simchat Torah Yizkor
Wednesday, April 15, 7:30am Passover Yizkor Memorial Service
Friday, May 29, 9:00am Shavuot Yizkor
REFLECT & ELEVATE
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Reflections: A Workshop with Cantor Stone
In this workshop, we will find out how our daily life experiences, observations and
anecdotes can illuminate and give deeper meaning to our prayers. Through writing on
various topics, learning about the themes of prayers, and sharing as a group, we will see
prayer in a new light and strengthen connections to one another and our tradition.
[Light lunch provided.]
Monday, September 23, 12:00pm
Monday, October 28, 12:00pm
Monday, December 2, 12:00pm
Monday, April 27, 12:00pm
B’nei Mitzvah
The b’nei mitzvah ceremony marks the beginning of a child’s journey to adulthood with
prayer, Torah, and celebration. We honor the young people in our congregation who
will become b’nei mitzvah this year. [B’nei mitzvah services typically begin at 11:00am
or 5:00pm.]
Arianna Nachman Saturday, September 14
Julia Roth Saturday, September 21
Jordan Goldstein Saturday, October 5
Henry Fogel Saturday, October 5
Rachel Coffey Saturday, October 19
Justin Weideker Saturday, October 26
Abby Meron Saturday, November 2
Owen Blaine Saturday, November 16
Sam Potkin Saturday, November 16
Madeline Hirsch Saturday, November 23
Ella Grann Saturday, December 7
Reid Englander Saturday, February 8
Ben Ptashnik Saturday, February 29
Josh Paterno Saturday, March 14
Zach and Tyler Taerstein Saturday, March 21
Rebecca Tanenbaum Saturday, April 18
Zachary Montone Saturday, May 2
Finn Rosenbaum Saturday, May 9
Jackson Lean (in Israel) Saturday, May 16
Talia Ifrah Saturday, May 30
Jack Gold Saturday, June 13
Abby Goldstein Saturday, June 13
Samantha Shaw Saturday, June 20
STEP-UP & GIVE BACK
Intergenerational Social Action Opportunities
We live in turbulent times. Rather than sit and worry, we can go out in our community and
counter the turbulence with acts of tikkun olam, acts that make our world a better place.
Let's join together as a temple community!
This year we are planning five intergenerational social action programs to show that our
congregation cares. Each is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in our local
community, the kind of action that creates ripples of hope and goodness. When taken
together with similar acts from people across the nation, we know we are doing our part
to make the whole country a better, more welcoming, more compassionate place. So, the
time is now to take your good intentions and act on them with congregants of all ages.
Mark your calendar with the following events and contact Jane Dubro at
[email protected] or 914-967-4382 x21 to let her know that you’ll be joining us!
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Sunday, October 6, 7:30am Brunch Run
Sunday, October 20, 9:30am Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk
Sunday, March 29, 10:00am DOROT Passover Package Delivery
Sunday, May 3, 7:30am Brunch Run
Friday, May 8, 5:30pm Mitzvah Shabbat & Pizza Truck Dinner
September 29 - October 9 High Holy Day Food Drive
October Coats for Hope Coat Drive
November Holiday Toy Drive for WJCS
December Kids' Kloset Underwear & Diaper Drive
January Afya Collection
March Hope Community Food Pantry Drive
April Mitzvah Shabbat Book & Pajama Drive
June Gently Used Backpack Collection for Midnight Run
Social Action Drives
We are committed to tikkun olam, the repair of our world. Help make our community a
better place and participate in the important drives and collections scheduled throughout
the year. For more information, contact Abbie Levitt at [email protected] or Hedy Cardozo
STEP-UP & GIVE BACK
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Ongoing Social Action Opportunities
“If I am for myself alone, what am I?” - Hillel
The story of the Jewish people is the story of tikkun olam, our ageless efforts to repair our
world. Help make our community a better place. Our award-winning Social Action
Committee runs projects throughout the year that further this mission. One day or every
week…anything you do makes a big difference!
Baby Bank Westchester
We are excited to announce a new social action partnership this year between Emanu-El
and Baby Bank Westchester, a program that provides basic necessities and essentials
for babies, 0-2. Through an ongoing donation drive and monthly opportunities to visit the
site, we will help make sure that all new parents in Westchester have the supplies they
need to help keep their babies clean, healthy, and happy. This is one of several meaningful
intergenerational efforts, one in which long-time members, religious school parents, and
our students themselves can all make a difference.
For more information, contact Hedy Cardozo at [email protected].
DOROT Westchester
Through personal contact with seniors, our volunteers help deliver vital services to the frail
elderly and forge loving bonds between the generations. In the process, they reap a rich
harvest of friendship, wisdom, and mutual appreciation. DOROT alleviates social isolation
among the elderly and provides services to help them live independently as valued
members of the community. We serve the Jewish and wider community, bringing the
generations together in a mutually beneficial partnership of elders, volunteers and
professionals. Our work provides an effective model for others.
For more information or to volunteer, contact Emily Cohen at [email protected].
STEP-UP & GIVE BACK
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Teach English as a Second Language
With all the opportunities to learn, we also take time to teach at the Don Bosco Community
Center in Port Chester. Volunteers from our congregation teach English as a Second
Language to the immigrant community. This wonderful opportunity to share our love of
learning with others takes place on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9:30 -
11:00am. Help others tell their story.
For more information or to volunteer contact Jaime Morris at [email protected].
HOPE House
Adults recovering from behavioral health conditions find the support and resources they need
to pursue their goals and dreams at HOPE House. Located in downtown Port Chester, HOPE
House is open Monday - Saturday and offers a wide range of activities focusing on recovery
and wellness. For over 20 years, congregants have participated in holidays, Mitzvah Day
activities, and special events with HOPE House members and staff.
To learn more about HOPE House and how you can get involved, contact Emily Cohen at
Ongoing Social Action Opportunities (Cont.)
STEP-UP & GIVE BACK
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Committees in Community: A Series of Evenings to Move Emanu-El Forward
A whole book of the Torah is dedicated to the work of the Levites, the people who
managed the details, logistics, set-up, and finances of the ancient Temple in Jerusalem.
That so much of our most scared book is about the Levites shows that it is, in fact, holiness
that is “in the details”. Those volunteers who serve as committee members and chairs are
the Levites of today. And just as the Levitical work was holy in ancient time, so too is the
work of Emanu-El’s dedicated volunteers.
To help make our committees as effective as possible and to help build an even stronger
sense of community and purpose, committees will meet on the same nights over the
course of the coming year. We’re calling these evenings Committees In Community.
Several committees will meet during each meeting slot and the full group will come
together for dinner and community for a half hour in between. Babysitting and homework
tables are available for children throughout the evening.
Meeting Dates:
Thursday, September 26
Thursday, November 7
Thursday, January 9
Thursday, February 27
Thursday, April 30
Get Involved!
We have a number of committees that would welcome your participation, input, and
support. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Co-President Emily Cohen at
[email protected] or Temple Administrator Abbie Levitt at [email protected]
or 914-967-4382 x18.
Each evening will feature the following schedule:
6:30 - 7:30pm Committee Meetings: Session 1
7:30 - 8:00pm Light Dinner
8:00 - 9:00pm Committee Meetings: Session 2
MIX & MINGLE
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Mah Jongg & Canasta
How did a 19th century Chinese parlor game come to be a favorite pastime for Jewish
women? From the tenements of New York City to the bungalows of the Catskills and the
vast American suburbs, Jewish women have kept Mah Jongg alive enjoying the betting and
matching of tiles into Rummy-like patterns. Speaking of Rummy, did you know that Canasta
is the only member of the family of Rummy games to achieve the status of a classic?
Come and enjoy both of these classics on Monday nights at Emanu-El. Contact Jane Dubro
for game schedule at 914-967-4382 x21 or [email protected]. [Meets on Mondays
at 6:45pm.]
Gallery Openings
“The artist must penetrate into the world, feel the fate of human beings, of peoples, with
real love. There is no art for art’s sake. One must be interested in the entire realm of life.”
- Marc Chagall
The walls of our synagogue are graced by art that adds beauty and vitality to our spiritual
home. We enjoy the beginning of each exhibit with a gallery opening for our congregants
and the community. What stories will our gallery tell this year?
Friday, September 6, 7:00pm MJ Wolff
Friday, November 22, 6:30pm Charlie Cooper
Friday, February 28, 7:00pm Tom Bernstein
Friday, June 12, 6:00pm Congregant Art Salon
Jared Dubro Legacy Fund Bingo Blingo & Game Night
This year Emanu-El hosts three different evenings filled with games and amazing prizes,
all to support the Jared Dubro Legacy Fund which was established by the Dubro family to
support programs, initiatives, and experiences that bring the light of Jared’s spirit into
our world.
Game Night
Monday, June 8, 6:30pm
Bingo Blingo
Monday, September 9, 7:00pm
Thursday, February 6, 7:00pm
MIX & MINGLE
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Westchester Chamber Music Society Sunday Concert Series
Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester proudly hosts the Westchester Chamber Music
Society, as it brings first-rate artists to Westchester. With many longtime subscribers and
newer members, all enjoy the unique experience of listening to chamber music in a space
similar in size to the ones in which Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven originally performed.
For information about subscriptions and tickets contact Shelley Lotter at 914-320-4168 or
[email protected]. Students attend free.
Sunday, October 20, 4:00pm Frisson
Sunday, November 17, 4:00pm The Alexander Quartet
Sunday, December 15, 4:00pm Brentano String Quartet
Sunday, March 8, 4:00pm The Amerigo Trio
Sunday, April 19, 4:00pm Escher Quartet
Next Step
This group of men meet to discuss personal issues that they face in retirement. The bonds
of friendship and a deep sense of trust have allowed this group to continue for many years.
The group is led by congregant Paul Spindel.
Sunday, September 8, 11:00am
Sunday, October 13, 11:00am
Sunday, November 24, 11:00am
Sunday, December 15, 11:00am
Sunday, January 12, 11:00am
Sunday, February 9, 11:00am
Sunday, March 15, 11:00am
Sunday, April 19, 11:00am
Sunday, May 17, 11:00am
Sunday, June 21, 11:00am
Challah Baking
Whether for your Shabbat dinner or a French toast breakfast, challah is delicious no matter
how you cut it. Participants will work alongside one another and take home a delicious
challah. Sessions are led by congregant Debra Cohen.
Thursday, October 24, 11:00am Thursday, March 5, 11:00am
Sunday Film Series
This diverse selection of films includes dramatic features, riveting documentaries, and
entertaining comedies that explore the Jewish experience - our story on the “big” screen.
Films are free and open to the community.
MIX & MINGLE
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School Ties Sunday, September 15, 7:00pm When David Greene receives a football scholarship to a prestigious prep school in the ‘50s, he
feels pressure to hide the fact that he is Jewish from his classmates and teachers, fearing that they
may be anti-Semitic. He quickly becomes the big man on campus thanks to his football skills, but
when his Jewish background is discovered, his worst fears are realized and his friends turn on him
with violent threats and public ridicule. Rated PG-13. Directed by Robert Mandel.
Above and Beyond
Sunday, February 2, 7:00pm
Would you risk everything - your future, your citizenship, even your life - to help a brother in
need? In 1948, just three years after the liberation of Nazi death camps, a group of Jewish
American pilots answered a call for help. In secret and at great personal risk, they smuggled
planes out of the U.S., trained behind the Iron Curtain in Czechoslovakia and flew for Israel in
its War of Independence. This band of brothers not only turned the tide of Israel’s War of
Independence; they also embarked on personal journeys that renewed their Jewish pride.
Not rated. Directed by Roberta Grossman.
Four Seasons Lodge with Guest Speaker Esther Geizhals
Sunday, November 17, 4:00pm
Every summer, some Holocaust survivors, mostly Polish Jews, gather at the Four Seasons Lodge
in the Catskill Mountains. After moving to America after the war, the survivors sought each other
out to create a large family to help fill the void left by those they lost. Though many of them are
well into their 90s, at the Four Seasons they play poker, cook, dance and tell jokes, creating for
one another a loving experience that is the antithesis of the nightmare they survived. Not rated.
Directed by Andrew Jacobs. Followed by a discussion with Holocaust survivor Esther Geizhals.
Schmatta: Rags to Riches to Rags Sunday, April 5, 7:00pm
New York City’s garment district was the place for new immigrants to start climbing the ladder.
During the early twentieth century, the industry absorbed Italians and Eastern European Jews who
called it the schmatta business (Yiddish for “rags”). Veteran filmmaker Mark Levin looks at the past and present of New York's garment district, from its heyday as a base for immigrant labor and unions to its recent decline. Not rated. Directed by Mark Levin.
Other Community Events
Whether a High Holy Day celebration, an opportunity for young professionals to meet with the
clergy or the Annual Meeting, there are wonderful reasons to come together throughout the year.
Sukkah Build Saturday, October 12, 9:00am
“You shall dwell in Sukkot seven days, every citizen in Israel shall dwell in Sukkot.”
- Leviticus, 23:42.
Help us fulfill this commandment - with power tools! Come help build the congregational
sukkah so that we can celebrate the joyous festival of Sukkot here at Emanu-El. If you’ve
got power drills and step ladders please bring them, but no tools are required.
MIX & MINGLE
18
Sukkot Open House at the Goldsmiths’ Saturday, October 19, 4:00pm
Each year Rabbis Howard and Jennifer Goldsmith and their children, Lev and Talia,
welcome the congregation to their backyard sukkah to celebrate Sukkot, the festival the
rabbis called “z’man simchateinu” the time of our rejoicing. We’ll shake the lulav, eat some
treats and rejoice in grand style.
Community Selichot at Westchester Reform Temple Saturday, September 21
7:00pm Program, 8:00pm Dessert Reception, 8:30pm Service
We join with friends from seven local congregations at Westchester Reform Temple for a
unique and meaningful Selichot program and service. Together, we will welcome Middle
Eastern vocalist and composer, Galeet Dardashti, who will perform her acclaimed work,
Monajat. Monajat (a Persian word meaning dialogue with God) re-imagines the Selichot
ritual with an acclaimed ensemble of musicians, an electronic soundscape, and dynamic live
video art. Using Persian melodies and Hebrew texts, the work pays homage to Dardashti’s
grandfather, a master Persian classical vocalist. Through electronics, she defies time and
performs with her grandfather.
Following Dardashti’s program and a dessert reception, our service will provide space to
reflect on the meditative themes of Selichot as we prime ourselves for the spiritual renewal
of the Days of Awe.
Drinks with the Clergy Thursday, October 24, 6:30pm
With so many children of the congregation living and working in New York City, this is the
perfect opportunity for them to spend time with Rabbi Goldsmith, Rabbi Ross, and Cantor
Stone in a more informal setting. It will also give them the chance to reconnect with
friends from their religious school days.
Comedy Night at Emanu-El Saturday, January 11, 7:30pm
What’s more Jewish than comedy? Fresh from the professional circuit, we bring you a
group of New York comics who are sure to have you laughing your tuckus off! More details
to follow.
Other Community Events (Cont.)
MIX & MINGLE
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Sisterhood Boutique Tuesday, October 29, 11:30am - 6:30pm
Find the perfect gifts for your friends and family while enjoying the company of Emanu-El
friends. A portion of this year’s proceeds will be donated to Children's Hope Chest.
Museum of Jewish Heritage: Auschwitz Exhibit Thursday, November 7, 12:00pm
A private tour of the groundbreaking exhibition brings together more than 700 original
objects and 400 photographs from over 20 institutions and museums around the
world. Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away. is the most comprehensive exhibition
dedicated to the history of Auschwitz and its place in the Holocaust ever presented in
North America, and an unparalleled opportunity to confront the singular face of human
evil - one that arose not long ago and not far away.
Garment Center Tour Monday, May 11, 1:00pm
This insider's tour will take you through a brief history of the apparel industry in New York
City, from Henry Hudson to the present time. Filled with anecdotes about the industry, you
will learn about the advent of mass production and the sewing machine, the development
of “sizes,” the invention of synthetic fibers, and the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire and how
it impacted both the building of the current Garment District and the rise of unions in the
industry. The tour will stop at iconic garment and fashion industry sites, including the
Fashion Walk of Fame.
Other Community Events (Cont.)
20
Annual Meeting Friday, June 12, 6:30pm
At the annual meeting, we welcome new board members, bid departing board members a
fond farewell and receive updates about the state of the congregation from Rabbi
Goldsmith and our co-presidents of the congregation. A delicious spread of food and wine
accompany the meeting as well as the opening of the annual Congregant Art Salon.
MIX & MINGLE
Current and Former Board Member Dinner Friday, March 6, 6:00pm
Each year current and former board members join together to reconnect, get updates on
board business, and celebrate the congregation.
Annual Spring Benefit Saturday, April 25, 7:30pm
Our Annual Spring Benefit is the perfect way to support the congregation’s Annual Fund
while having a fun evening with great food and drinks, good music, and temple friends.
Join us on Saturday, April 25 when we will honor Rabbi Goldsmith with the 2020 Emanu-El
Prize. Watch Emanumail and the bulletin for more information.
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SEEK & DISCOVER
Beit Midrash
In Beit Midrash (which means House of Study) we will take an in-depth, inter-generational
approach to Jewish Study using the Statement of Principles for Reform Judaism to
examine the theologies, practices, and notions of peoplehood that define us as American
Reform Jews.
Taught by Rabbi Goldsmith, Rabbi Ross, Cantor Stone, and a special guest or two, the
course will meet approximately twice a month on Saturday and Sunday mornings. On
Sundays, we will look at these issues through historical, sociological, and demographic
lenses. On Shabbat mornings, we will strive to understand these ideas through study of
our sacred texts – continuing the tradition of Shabbat morning Torah study at Emanu-El.
Each session will stand on its own – thus attendance at every session is not required. But,
of course, attending more sessions will help you acquire greater depth of understanding
and breadth of context.
Beit Midrash will also serve as the core component of our Adult B’nei Mitzvah program.
If you are interested in the Adult B’nei Mitzvah program, contact Rabbi Goldsmith at
[email protected] or 914-967-4382 x13.
We look forward to learning with you!
Saturday, September 14, 9:00am
God, Torah, Israel
Sunday, September 22, 10:15am
A Statement of Principles for
Reform Judaism
Saturday, October 19, 9:00am
Creation, Revelation, Redemption
Sunday, October 27, 10:15am
Reality and the Oness of God
Saturday, November 9, 9:00am
Theodicy
Sunday, November 17, 10:15am
Mitzvah
Saturday, December 7, 9:00am
Divine-Human Partnership
Sunday, January 5, 10:15am
Jewish Ethics
Saturday, January 11, 9:00am
People of the Book
Sunday, January 26, 10:15am
High Holy Days
Saturday, February 1, 9:00am
Messianic Age
Sunday, February 9, 10:15am
The Three Festivals: Sukkot,
Passover, Shavuot
Women’s Study Group
“Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron’s sister, took a timbrel in her hand, and all the women
went out after her in dance with timbrels.” - Exodus 15:20
The women of our congregation add to Miriam’s spirit of joy and a deep commitment to
Torah learning, creating an important space for learning, community, and prayer.
Sukkot Dinner with
Author Barbara Ostfeld
Thursday, October 17, 6:30pm
Chanukah Dinner
Thursday, December 19, 6:30pm
Women's Study Group Retreat
Friday, January 24, 5:00pm -
Saturday, January 25, 5:00pm
Passover Dinner
Thursday, April 2, 6:30pm
Single Malt Torah
“When people learn together God’s presence dwells among them.” - The Talmud
The men of the congregation join together for fine scotch and Torah learning with
Rabbi Goldsmith.
Thursday, September 19, 8:00pm
Thursday, October 17, 8:00pm
Thursday, November 14, 8:00pm
Thursday, January 23, 8:00pm
Thursday, March 19, 8:00pm
Thursday, May 7, 8:00pm
Thursday, June 11, 7:30pm
Beit Midrash (Cont.)
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Sunday, March 1, 10:15am
Zionism
Saturday, March 14, 9:00am
Tikkun Olam & Justice
Saturday, March 21, 9:00am
Three Israels
Saturday, April 4, 9:00am
Worldwide Jewish Community
Sunday, April 26, 10:15am
The Future of American Jewry
Sunday, May 9, 9:00am
Choseness
Saturday, May 30, 9:00am
Progressive Judaism in Israel
Saturday, June 13, 9:00am
Conclusions and New Beginnings
SEEK & DISCOVER
23
SEEK & DISCOVER
Political Staffer Meetings
Meet with the staffers from the offices of our elected officials to learn about current
issues and give your input on policies and questions facing our government. Guests to
be announced.
Thursday, October 24, 9:30am
Thursday, February 6, 9:30am
Monday, May 4, 9:30am
Temple Book Club and Books & Bites
We are the people of the book because we love the written word, the stories it tells, and all
that we can learn. More Book Club titles and Books & Bites dates to be released in the fall.
Book Club:
Catbird: The Ballad of Barbie Prim
by Barbara J. Ostfeld
Thursday, September 12, 10:15am
Six Thousand Miles from Home
by Jack Hersch
with guest facilitator Rabbi Goldsmith
Thursday, October 17, 10:15am
Where the Crawdads Sing
by Delia Owens
with guest facilitator Rabbi Wolk
Thursday, November 21, 10:15am
Book To Be Announced
Thursday, January 16, 10:15am
Book To Be Announced Thursday, March 19, 10:15am
Book To Be Announced
Thursday, April 16, 10:15am
Books & Bites:
Warlight
by Michael Ondaatje
Thursday, September 5, 6:30pm
Luncheon with Sacred Shelter
Author Susan Greenfield
Thursday, May 14, 12:00pm
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SEEK & DISCOVER
Westchester Jewish Council Night of Jewish Learning
at Beth El Synagogue Center in New Rochelle
Saturday, November 23, 7:30pm
Every two years the Westchester Jewish community comes together for a Night of
Jewish Learning featuring the rabbis of Westchester. Individual sessions taught by rabbis
from across the ideological spectrum – and across the county – make this a unique
learning opportunity. Don’t miss it!
Engaging Aging
“… Man’s potential for change and growth is much greater than we are willing to admit,
and that old age be regarded not as the age of stagnation but as the age of opportunities
for inner growth.” - Abraham Joshua Heschel
Just as the synagogue is a place where young children set down roots in the fertile soil of
our tradition, it is also a place where adults - no matter their age - can reflect on how to
live a meaningful life. Program topics to be released in the fall.
Sunday, November 10, 10:00am Monday, December 9, 10:00am
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FEATURED SPEAKERS & PROGRAMS
Kristallnacht Commemoration with Guest Speaker Ed Cohen
Friday, November 8, 7:30pm
Westchester resident Ed Cohen will share his family’s remarkable story of loss,
perseverance, survival, and, ultimately, hope. The story, as conveyed in Six
Thousand Miles to Home: A Novel Inspired by a True Story of WWII was one of
the most eye-opening Holocaust books that Rabbi Goldsmith has ever read.
Ed’s family from Poland ended up ensnared in Stalin’s Gulag and then
remarkably escaped to Iran. This is a story that you will not hear in Holocaust
museums, it is a story from which we can all learn a great deal. Each attendee
will receive a free copy of this compelling and important book.
Cantor Earl Rogers Tribute Sabbath with Musical Guest Neshama Carlebach
Friday, December 6, 7:30pm
We are thrilled to welcome Neshama Carlebach back to Emanu-El.
As the featured musician for the year's Cantor Earl Rogers Tribute
Sabbath, Neshama is an award-winning singer, songwriter and educator
who has performed and taught in cities around the world. A six-time
entrant in the Grammy Awards, Neshama has sold over one million
records, making her one of today’s best-selling Jewish artists in the
world. Since her debut album, Soul, in 1996, she has released 10 records,
each showcasing her vocal range, power, versatility, and her unique blend of various genres
including classic Hebrew folk songs, contemporary pop music, jazz and gospel. Her most
recent release, Believe, includes 12 all-original tracks and features her band and a new gospel
choir led by Pastor Milton Vann. She will bring us music from this album in which she "...
examines personal and universal problems to transform darkness into light. The 12-song album
approaches life’s challenges with grace, beauty and uplifting music.”
Neshama Carlebach's visit is made possible by the generosity of an anonymous donor.
Sukkot Open House at the Goldsmiths’
Saturday, October 19, 4:00pm
Each year Rabbis Howard and Jennifer Goldsmith and their children, Lev and Talia,
welcome the congregation to their backyard sukkah to celebrate Sukkot, the
festival the rabbis called “z’man simchateinu” the time of our rejoicing. We’ll
shake the lulav, eat some treats and rejoice in grand style.
26
FEATURED SPEAKERS & PROGRAMS
International Holocaust Remembrance Day with Jack Hersch
Wednesday, January 29, 7:00pm
We will commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day with
Jack Hersch, author of Death March Escape: The Remarkable Story of a Man
Who Twice Escaped the Nazi Holocaust, which details his father’s
unbelievable escape from two different death marches. Later in life,
following his father’s death, Hersch came across a picture of his father
which prompted a trip to Europe to learn the secrets behind the
photograph - secrets his father never told of his time in the camps.
Sacred Stories: Social Justice Shabbat featuring the Isaac Memorial Lecture
with Rabbi Menachem Creditor
Friday, January 17, 7:30pm
What is the role of religion in public policy debates? Should religion enter
the public sphere? In what ways might it motivate activism? When should
religion take a back seat? When should it be out front? At this year’s Social
Justice Shabbat, these important questions will be addressed by one of
America’s leading rabbis, Rabbi Menachem Creditor.
Rabbi Menachem Creditor serves as the Pearl and Ira Meyer Scholar in
Residence at UJA-Federation New York, where his role is amplifying Jewish
learning, leadership and values within the UJA-Federation community of supporters, staff, and
partners. In 2013, he was named by Newsweek as one of the fifty most influential rabbis in
America and has been involved in the leadership of Rabbis Against Gun Violence, American
Jewish World Service, AIPAC and the One America Movement, an organization dedicated to
bringing together Americans of different faiths and opinions.
Among his 19 books and six albums of original Jewish music are “And Yet We Love: Poems,”
“Holding Fast: Jewish Respond to American Gun Violence,” and “Olam Chesed Yibaneh/A World
of Love.”
Rabbi Menachem Creditor's visit is made possible by the generosity of an anonymous donor.
27
FEATURED SPEAKERS & PROGRAMS
Community Yom HaShoah Service at Emanu-El
Monday, April 20, 7:30pm
"Never forget." It is our obligation to remember. We remember the lives
lost. We remember grand acts of heroism. We remember the quiet heroism
of living one more day. We remember the rich heritage of communities
that were destroyed. And then we vow to live our lives for those who
perished. We join together with Jewish Community Center of Harrison,
Community Synagogue of Rye, and Congregation KTI as we fulfill this
sacred obligation.
I'm A Cultural Jew: Wine
Friday, March 27, 7:30pm
One glass of wine for Shabbat Kiddush. Two glasses at a wedding
ceremony. Four glasses at the Passover Seder. Mixing red and white at
Tu B'Shvat. Too many glasses at Purim. Used both to enjoy the moment and
to make it holy, wine plays a big role in Jewish tradition. In modern times, too,
wine has impacted the trajectory of Jewish history. The very first Zionist-
Jewish settlement in the Land of Israel in the 19th century planted vineyards
in our ancient homeland. Today, kosher and non-kosher wineries have popped up all over the
State of Israel, producing world class wines that put Manischewitz to shame. On this night, we
will celebrate Shabbat with music, good company, and plenty of wine.
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL & YOUTH
28
The Bauman-Green
Pre-K & Kindergarten Program
“Torah tastes as sweet as honey to me.”
- Ezekiel 3:3
Our holiday-based program meets several
times a year as our youngest learners begin
to experience the sweetness of Jewish
education and the stories that join us
together.
Free and open to the community.
This program is funded by the generosity of
congregant Dr. Caroline Bauman.
High Holy Days
Sunday, September 15, 9:30 - 10:45am
Shabbat
Sunday, October 27, 9:30 - 10:45am
Chanukah
Sunday, December 8, 9:30 - 10:45am
Tu BiSh’vat
Sunday, February 2, 9:30 - 10:45am
Purim
Sunday, March 8, 9:30 - 10:45am
Passover
Sunday, March 29, 9:30 - 10:45am
Yom HaAtzmaut
Sunday, May 3, 9:30 - 10:45am
Young Families
Committee Events
“From generation to generation…”
- From the morning liturgy
We are committed to helping young
families begin their Jewish journeys. Bring
your children, nieces, nephews,
grandchildren… any little one who is
special in your life. All Young Families
Committee events are free and open to the
community and are appropriate for ages
6 months through 2nd grade. Start the
story of the next generation.
Rosh Hashanah Young Families Service
& Taste of Sweetness Celebration
Monday, September 30, 3:00pm
Yom Kippur Young Families Service
Wednesday, October 9, 2:15pm
Celebration of Shabbat
Sunday, October 27, 10:45 - 11:45am
Chanukah Celebration
Sunday, December 8, 10:45 - 11:45am
Purim Celebration
Sunday, March 8, 10:45 - 11:45am
Passover Celebration
Sunday, March 29, 10:45 - 11:45am
Mitzvah Shabbat & Pizza Truck Dinner
Friday, May 8
5:30pm Pizza Truck & Mitzvah Projects
6:30pm Mitzvah Shabbat Service
7:00pm Pizza Truck & Mitzvah Projects
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL & YOUTH
29
Family Learning Shabbat Experience classroom Hebrew as it comes to life during our innovative, musical, family learning
Shabbat! Our re-envisioned family learning experiences for our students and their families, a
core component of Jewish education at Congregation Emanu-El, will take place on Friday
evenings to bring together all our students have learned as we celebrate Shabbat with family
and friends.
Friday, November 22
6:00pm Religious School Dinner
6:30pm Religious School Family Learning
7:00pm Shabbat Service with
Musical Guest Shira Kline
Friday, February 7
6:00pm Religious School Dinner
6:30pm Religious School Family Learning
7:00pm Shabbat Service
Family Friendly Shabbat Services
These services are particularly well suited for families featuring: great music, holiday celebrations,
a warm sense of community, projected prayers, and celebratory onegs.
Friday, September 6
7:30pm Sacred Stories: Pop Shabbat
Friday, September 13
6:00pm Shabbat BBQ Dinner
7:00pm Opening Shabbat & Consecration
Friday, October 18
6:00pm Shabbat Dinner
7:00pm Shabbat! Sukkot! Simchat Torah!
Friday, December 20
6:00pm Shabbat Dinner
7:00pm Chanukah Celebration!
Friday, January 10
7:30pm Honoring The Farah Family Hineini
Program Students & Parents
Friday, May 8
5:30pm Pizza Truck & Mitzvah Projects
6:30pm Mitzvah Shabbat Service
7:00pm Pizza Truck & Mitzvah Projects
Friday, March 6
7:30pm Purim: Will Burt Bacharach Finally
Meet the Megillah?
Friday, April 24
7:30pm Yom HaAtzmaut & Honoring
Our Graduating Seniors
Friday, May 15
7:30pm Sacred Stories: Exploring Our Liturgy
Friday, May 29
7:30pm Confirmation & Shavuot Shabbat
Friday, June 12
7:30pm I'm A Cultural Jew: Film
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL & YOUTH
Special Religious School & Hebrew School Events
“The more Torah the more life.” - Hillel
In our religious school, we pass our traditions, stories, and values to the next generation.
Please note these special dates and events. [Religious School meets on Sundays from 9:30 - 11:45am.
Hebrew School meets on Tuesdays from 3:50 - 5:45pm.]
Important Dates to Remember Opening and final sessions, BBQs, holidays and festivals, trips and special guests. These are the
dates you won't want to miss! Enter these important dates into your calendar today.
30
No Hebrew School Tuesday, October 8
Tuesday, December 24
Tuesday, December 31
Tuesday, February 18
Tuesday, April 7
No Religious School
Sunday, September 29
Sunday, October 6
Sunday, December 1
Sunday, December 22
Sunday, December 29
Sunday, January 19
Sunday, February 16
Sunday, February 23
Sunday, April 12
Sunday, May 10
First Day of Religious School
Sunday, September 8, 9:30am
First Day of Hebrew School
Tuesday, September 10, 3:50pm
Opening Shabbat & Consecration
Friday, September 13
6:00pm BBQ Shabbat Dinner
7:00pm Service
Brunch Run
Sunday, October 6, 7:30am
Hebrew School Grade
Simchat Torah Program
Tuesday, October 22, 3:50pm
Religious School Purim Celebration
Sunday, March 8, 11:30am
A Morning with Holocaust Survivor
Dr. Moshe Avital
Sunday, April 19. 9:30am
B’nai Mitzvah Retreat
Friday, April 17, 6:30pm -
Saturday, April 18, 12:00pm
Religious School Open House
Sunday, May 3, 9:30am
Hebrew School: Last Session
Tuesday, May 12, 3:50pm
Religious School: Last Session
Sunday, May 17, 9:30am
Religious School: End of Year Celebration
Sunday, May 17, 11:00am
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL & YOUTH
31
The Farah Family Hineini Program
“We will do and we will understand.” - Exodus 24
Our 7th grade Farah Family Hineini Program students go out into our community and put the Jewish
values they have learned into action making our world a better place and writing the next chapter of
our Jewish story. This service-learning model has transformed Sunday mornings for our students and
their families. [Classes typically meet on Sunday mornings at 9:30am at the synagogue except where
noted in the schedules distributed by Jane Dubro. Parents will be reminded of alternative times
and locations.]
This program is funded by the generosity of The Farah Family.
Rye Park
September 8
Pleasantville Cottage School
September 15
Emanu-El
September 22
Brunch Run
October 6
Emanu-El
October 13
Making Strides Against
Breast Cancer Walk
October 20
Emanu-El
November 3
Kristallnacht Walk
November 10
Emanu-El with Terry Schwarz
November 17
Lower East Side Trip
November 24
Afya
December 8
Emanu-El
December 15
Willow Towers
January 5
Kids' Kloset
January 12
JTeen at AFYA
January 20
Emanu-El
January 26
Emanu-El
February 2
Friendship Circle
February 9
Emanu-El
March 1
Emanu-El
March 8
Afya
March 15
Pleasantville Cottage School
March 22
DOROT Passover
Package Delivery
March 29
Feeding Westchester
April 5
Emanu-El
April 19
Emanu-El
April 26
Brunch Run
May 3
Emanu-El
May 17
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL & YOUTH
32
Academy
“The more study the more wisdom.” - Hillel
Our 8th graders continue their Jewish journeys by exploring how being Jewish informs their everyday
lives. [Meets Mondays at 7:15pm unless otherwise noted.]
September 16 First Academy
September 23 Academy
September 30 No Academy
October 6 Academy at Brunch Run
(Sunday, 7:30am)
October 7 No Academy
October 14 Academy Sukkot
October 21 Academy Simchat Torah
October 28 Academy
November 4 Academy
November 11 No Academy
November 18 Academy Service Project
November 25 No Academy
December 2 Academy at Feeding Westchester
December 9 Academy
December 16 Academy Chanukah
December 23 No Academy
December 30 No Academy
January 6 Academy
January 13 No Academy
January 20 Academy at Afya for MLK Day
with JTeen
(10:00 - 1:00pm)
January 27 No Academy
February 3 Academy
February 10 Academy
February 17 No Academy
February 24 Academy
March 2 Academy
March 9 Academy Purim
March 15 Academy at Afya
(Sunday, 10:30 - 11:45am)
March 23 Academy
March 29 Academy at JTeen JServe
March 30 Academy
April 6 No Academy
April 13 No Academy
April 20 Academy at Community
Yom HaShoah Service
at Emanu-El
(7:30pm)
April 27 Academy
May 4 Last Academy - parents invited
May 8 Academy at Mitzvah Shabbat
& Pizza Truck Dinner
(Friday, 5:30pm)
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL & YOUTH
33
Confirmation “The world stands on three things, on Torah, on worship and on acts of loving kindness.”
- Pirket Avot
Our 9th and 10th graders spend a year studying with Rabbi Goldsmith exploring many facets
of Jewish identity, theology and meaning. The teens finish the year knowing where they fit in
the story of the Jewish people. [Classes meet on Monday nights at 7:15pm unless noted.]
September 16 Introduction
September 23 Our Community
September 30 No Confirmation
October 7 No Confirmation
October 14 God - Arguing For and Against
October 21 God Shopping
October 28 Confronting Evil
November 3 Confirmation Hike
(Sunday, 9:30am)
November 4 No Confirmation
November 11 No Confirmation
November 18 Prayer
November 25 No Confirmation
December 2 How is Torah True?
December 9 Torah Through the Generations
December 16 Chanukah Party
December 23 No Confirmation
December 30 No Confirmation
January 6 Torah in Our Lives Today
January 13 No Confirmation
January 20 No Confirmation
January 24 - Religious Action Center Trip
January 27 in Washington, DC
February 3 What is Yisrael?
February 10 Modern State of Israel
February 17 No Confirmation
February 24 The Israeli-Palestinan Conflict
March 2 The Jewish People Today
March 9 Intermarriage
March 16 Jewish Literacy: Death & Dying
March 23 Jewish Literacy: Kashrut
March 30 Jewish Literacy: Anti-Semitism
April 6 No Confirmation
April 13 Flex Class
April 20 Community Yom HaShoah
Service at Emanu-El
(Monday, 7:30pm)
April 27 Last Class
May 4 Service Prep I
May 11 Service Prep II
May 18 Service Prep III
May 25 No Confirmation
May 28 Rehearsal
(Thursday, 7:15pm)
May 29 Confirmation & Shavuot
Shabbat Service
(Friday, 7:30pm)
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL & YOUTH
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Youth Group
“And the youth shall see visions.” - Joel 2:28
With a strong emphasis on social action, our Youth Group builds community while making
our community a better place. And they do it all while having fun! We have planned another
busy year that will help to build a meaningful connection between our teens, our
congregation, and the broader community. Watch Emanumail and the bulletin for more
information on these events.
Israel Fellows for 11th & 12th Graders
This year, Rabbi Ross is partnering with the rabbis and educators of several local
congregations to offer a six-week fellowship for high school juniors and seniors built around
two core topics: Israel and Jewish pluralism. All of our 11th and 12th grade students will have
the opportunity to join together for six evening sessions with peers from our neighboring
congregations to learn together with top Israel and Jewish educators, get to know their
Jewish neighbors, and feel prepared and comfortable engaging in conversations about Israel
and participating in pluralistic Jewish community beyond the walls of their home
congregations. [Classes meet on Wednesday nights at 7:00 - 8:30pm.]
September 11
1917 - The Balfour Declaration:
The Idea of a Homeland for
the Jewish People
September 18
1947 - The United Nations Partition
Plan: The Jews in the World
September 25
1967 - The Six Day War: Power, Land,
and God
October 16
Jerusalem of God, Prayer,
and Peoplehood
October 23
The Jubilee Year and Beyond:
Milestones and their Meanings
November 6
Israel and Us
AND SO MUCH MORE...
Watch our weekly Emanumail and monthly bulletins for new programs that we add
throughout the year!
Emanumail
To sign up for Emanumail, our weekly email blast, please send your email address to Dan
O’Connor at [email protected].
Get Involved
We welcome your involvement in the congregation. Beyond all the wonderful programs,
we have a number of committees that would welcome your participation, input, and
support. If you are interested in volunteering, please call Temple Administrator Abbie
Levitt at 914-967-4382 x18.
“From Strength to Strength”: Donate to the Annual Fund
The Annual Fund provides the necessary resources to ensure that we can welcome anyone
who wishes to be a member of Emanu-El, regardless of income level or financial hardship.
This enables us to continue enriching our congregation through the diversity of our
membership. The Annual Fund also helps fill the gap in our operating budget not met by
regular dues, tuition, and fees.
It is your support that helps make us the wonderful community we are today as we move
forward “From Strength to Strength”.
For more information, contact Maj Wickstrom at [email protected].
NOTES
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