A Conservative congregation, traditional and egalitarian, dedicated to perpetuating Judaism by supporting the religious, educational, social, and cultural life of our community. Volume LXI, Number 3 Shevat-Adar, 5780 February-March, 2020 LEARNING by Rabbi Charles S. Sherman Melrose B’nai Israel Emanu-El Leah and I went out to California a few weeks ago to help arrange our youngest daughter’s wedding. Once again, I am “Father of the bride.” Planning a wedding has inherent stresses, although of course it is a simcha. What I tried to keep focusing on (not always successfully) amidst the minutia is the larger picture, – two young people in love, common hopes and common dreams. Nitza is getting married at Sinai Temple where her brother Erez and sister-in-law Nicole are rabbis: they too were married on that pulpit. I am honored that I will marry Nitza and Jamie. It will be a special joy in my life. While I was in California, Erez said to me that he had arranged for the two of us to go to a lecture by Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, former Chief Rabbi of the British Empire. I have read a lot of Rabbi Sack’s writings, and have been impressed by his intelligence, his clear writing, and his ability to “turn a phrase.” Rabbi Sacks is very worldly, but also deeply rooted in Jewish knowledge, text and tradition. His topic that evening was important: “Anti-Semitism, Jewish Identity and Israel.” It was of course very timely. And I certainly was not disappointed in his presentation. But what I found most interesting and what touched me deeply was the question and answer period after the presentation. The rabbi of the synagogue asked excellent questions about philosophy, Jewish history, and also the political environment in Britain. And Rabbi Sack’s responses were thoughtful and eloquent. But what really seized my interest was when Rabbi Sacks was asked about his personal life narrative. How did he reach this point in life? Rabbi Sacks shared that he grew up in a home in London, with four brothers. The family was challenged economically. His father sold “shamates” out of a pushcart. He squeezed out a living. He had left school after the ninth grade. Rabbi Sacks recalled going to shul with his father. Young Jonathan was always inquisitive. He asked question after question, he wondered about faith, about Jewish ceremony, about Jewish ritual. Rabbi Sacks remembered that his father said to him, “Jonathan, I cannot answer your questions. I never got a Jewish education. I didn’t have the opportunity because I had to work. But you have the opportunity to learn the things I always wanted to know. So, one day, you can answer my questions.” Rabbi Sacks paused for a few moments, perhaps to reflect, to remember, or maybe to collect himself. He may have been thinking about how far he had come. But most of all, I think he was thinking about his father. When I left the synagogue that night, I pondered the verse from the Passover Haggadah, from the Book of Exodus, “You shall tell your children.” But those of us, who have lived a long time, understand that there comes a moment when the young people in your life can teach you. They allow you to see things and learn things that you never thought possible. Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks The Table of Contents can be found on the back cover.
Transcript
A Conservative congregation, traditional and egalitarian, dedicated to perpetuating Judaism by supporting the religious, educational, social, and cultural life of our community.
Volume LXI, Number 3 Shevat-Adar, 5780 February-March, 2020
LEARNING by Rabbi Charles S. Sherman
Melrose B’nai Israel Emanu-El
Leah and I went out to California a few weeks ago to help arrange our youngest daughter’s wedding. Once again, I am “Father of the bride.” Planning a wedding has inherent stresses, although of course it is a simcha. What I tried to keep focusing on (not always successfully) amidst the minutia is the
larger picture, – two young people in love, common hopes and common dreams.
Nitza is getting married at Sinai Temple where her brother Erez and sister-in-law Nicole are rabbis: they too were married on that pulpit. I am honored that I will marry Nitza and Jamie. It will be a special joy in my life.
While I was in California, Erez said to me that he had arranged for the two of us to go to a lecture by Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, former Chief Rabbi of the British Empire.
I have read a lot of Rabbi Sack’s writings, and have been impressed by his intelligence, his clear writing, and his ability to “turn a phrase.” Rabbi Sacks is very worldly, but also deeply rooted in Jewish knowledge, text and tradition.
His topic that evening was important: “Anti-Semitism, Jewish Identity and Israel.” It was of course very timely. And I certainly was not disappointed in his presentation.
But what I found most interesting and what touched me deeply was the question and answer period after the presentation. The rabbi of the synagogue asked excellent questions about philosophy, Jewish history, and also the political environment in Britain. And Rabbi Sack’s responses were thoughtful and eloquent.
But what really seized my interest was when Rabbi Sacks was asked about his personal life narrative. How did he reach this point in life?
Rabbi Sacks shared that he grew up in a home in London, with four brothers. The family was challenged economically. His father sold “shamates” out of a pushcart. He squeezed out a living. He had left school after the ninth
grade.
Rabbi Sacks recalled going to shul with his father. Young Jonathan was always inquisitive. He asked question after question, he wondered about faith, about Jewish ceremony, about Jewish ritual.
Rabbi Sacks remembered that his father said to him, “Jonathan, I cannot answer your questions. I never got a Jewish education. I didn’t have the opportunity because I had to work. But you have the opportunity to learn the things I always wanted to know. So, one day, you can answer my questions.”
Rabbi Sacks paused for a few moments, perhaps to reflect, to remember, or maybe to collect himself. He may have been thinking about how far he had come. But most of all, I think he was thinking about his father.
When I left the synagogue that night, I pondered the verse from the Passover Haggadah, from the Book of Exodus, “You shall tell your children.” But those of us, who have lived a long time, understand that there comes a moment when the young people in your life can teach you. They allow you to see things and learn things that you never thought possible.
Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks
The Table of Contents can be found on the back cover.
President’s Report On December 20, we formally welcomed our new
members to the MBIEE family at a catered Israeli Chanukah dinner. Much appreciation to VP Sharon Sussman for planning the meal and attending to every detail. It was preceded by a lively Shabbat evening service led by Rabbi Sherman and Cantor Freedman. In my remarks from the Bimah, I expressed the hope that at this event next year, the new congregants seated before me would
help us to welcome our newest members.
The membership committee, already excited about our prospects for the coming year, has been meeting regularly. As always, we first reach out to you, our current members. Are you aware of friends, family or neighbors who are unaffiliated or possibly looking for a new direction in their spiritual journey? Please encourage them to attend our upcoming events (discussed below) where they will have an opportunity to meet our clergy, officers and congregants in an informal social setting. And, of course, they are cordially invited to join us at any Shabbat service where they will receive the warm welcome that has come to define MBIEE. In the planning stages now are several dinner and dessert receptions during the summer where it will be our pleasure to answer questions and introduce ourselves as potential and veteran members mingle and get to know each other.
Additionally, please note the following programs to consider for yourself and guests:
On Saturday evening, March 7, we are thrilled to present Cantor’s Café as we turn the social hall into an intimate cabaret where Cantor Freedman will perform an eclectic medley of Hebrew, Israeli and American music in his unique folk style. This is a show that is generating much interest! Seating is limited. A detailed description of the evening and the options offered has been mailed home. Please invite friends and family, complete the tear-off and return to the office as soon as possible to assure your reservation. We look forward to sharing this exceptional musical experience with you!
Only two days later, we celebrate Purim in our sanctuary with a special and festive program. In addition to the service, the reading of the Megillah, the always highly anticipated spiel performed by our talented MBIEE Purim Players, other surprises are being planned. (Who can forget the Fralinger String Quartet joined by Rabbi Sherman and Cantor Tillman last year?) Stay tuned for announcements! Invite guests; all are welcome to join our celebration that evening.
Once again, we offer a Passover Seder led by Rabbi Sherman and Cantor Freedman on the first night of Pesach. Let our caterer do the cooking for you and your family as
together we enjoy a delicious meal and meaningful religious experience. This is not to be missed!! Details for both Purim and Passover holidays can be found on page 7.
On Thursday evening, April 2, it is our honor to host Rabbi Howard Addison as he introduces us to his latest book, Seeking Redemption in an Unredeemed World: Essays on Jewish Spirituality. These 10 essays span theology, spiritual practice and guidance, social justice, dream work and the arts; they offer diverse perspectives on how redemption might be glimpsed in our all-too-fractured world. Rabbi Addison, Associate Professor at Temple University and the Gershom Scholem Professor of Jewish Spirituality at the Graduate Theological Foundation, is an inspiring teacher and speaker. As a former Rabbi at both Temple Sinai and MBIEE, many of us have been privileged to hear his sermons and attend his classes. Copies of the book will be available for purchase in advance and that evening. Specifics for purchasing will be provided. He will join us at a dessert reception following the program. Look for a flyer and poster.
And this is just the beginning! There is much more ahead through the spring and summer. Announcements are forthcoming.
On Sunday, January 12, six members of our congregation were certified in CPR after being instructed in our building by the Cheltenham Township Emergency Medical Service. They and an additional five members were trained in the use of our state- of- the- art AED (Automated External Defibrillator) located in the sanctuary. In Phase II of the training, we will be offering AED education to other interested MBIEE members. When the date is confirmed, you will be notified. Our deepest gratitude to Dr. Roy and Shelley Schwartz for donating the defibrillator and financing the training.
In response to the shocking rise in anti-Semitic attacks in the United States, your Executive Committee and Board of Directors have approved the use of armed guards as needed at services and events. A notice was sent to all congregants describing the change and what to expect. Our policy regarding the use of fobs to identify you as a member when entering the building remains in place. As stated in the letter, we are collaborating with KI on grants to seek funding for other security improvements and have established a restricted Security Fund to cover additional expenses as we move forward. When making decisions about donations in honor or memory of a loved one, please consider this option.
Your comfort, safety and security as you worship, attend classes and participate in programs is our priority.
Bob and I look forward to seeing you at services and at the many events scheduled in the months ahead!
Brian & Debra Zaslow ............................................. 27
Ken & Randi Zeitzer ................................................ 31
February
David Menaker ............................... 1 Albert Butler ................................... 3 Leonard Kaltz .................................. 4 Maurice Torjman ............................ 7
To Rabbi Charles & Leah Sherman on the engagement of their daughter, Nitza, to Jamie Stopnitzky - wedding to be held in California in August
To Geoffrey & Deanna Reiner on the auf ruf of their grandson, Cheski Reiner, son of Rabbi Avrohom Dovid & Michele Reiner.
To Rabbi Kevin Bernstein and Rebecca Meyer on the marriage of their daughter, Sophia Bernstein, to Adam Robinson, son of Nina Robinson
To Hazzan David and Ellen Tilman and Rabbi Howard and Naomi Tilman on the birth of their granddaughter and daughter, Sophie Daniela Tilman To Baruch Schwartz on the birth of a grandson, Benjamin Mattathias. The proud parents are Michael & Lauren Schwartz of New York
February - March 2020 The Shofar Page 5
The Shofar wishes to inform the congregation that Joan Polsky and Mikel Goldblatt’s son, Benjamin, a United States soldier, is being deployed to Afghanistan. We want to wish him a safe return home.
Tu B’Shevat - Monday, February 10
Page 6 The Shofar Volume LXI, Number 3
Recipe for Easy Tu B’Shevat Salad contributed by Shofar Food Editor, Sharon Sussman
1 package baby lettuce (or whatever kind of greens you like) 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds 6 figs quartered 2 dates thinly sliced 1/2 cup seedless grapes 1/4 cup olive oil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar Honey Whole wheat croutons
Toss all ingredients except oil, vinegar & honey (dressing ingredients). Mix together dressing ingredients (add a little more honey if you like it sweeter). Toss in croutons on top.
Tu B’Shevat, also known as Chamishah Asar B’Shevat (the fifteenth day of the month of Shevat), has a long and varied background in Judaism. Jewish literature of the first several centuries of the Common Era informs us that Tu B’Shevat was the New Year for trees. It was the date on which trees in Israel were determined to be mature enough for their fruit to be harvested.
II
The Sephardi Jews gave the New Year of Trees a greater significance. By the sixteenth century the custom of eating fruit and reciting Psalms on Tu B’Shevat had been expanded by the mystics, and it became a central celebration of the kabbalists of Safed. For the kabbalists, trees were a symbol
of human beings, as Scripture says, “For a human is like the tree of the field” (Deut.20:19). In connection with their general concern for tikkun olam (restoring wholeness to the broken world) the kabbalists regarded eating a variety of fruits on Tu B’Shevat as a way of improving our
spiritual selves. More specifically, they believed that eating fruit was a way of expiating the first sin: eating of the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge in the Garden of Eden. Similarly, trees were symbolic of the “Tree of Life,” which is a visual representation of the flow of divine energy that carries goodness and blessing into the world. To encourage this flow and to affect tikkun olam, the kabbalists created a Tu B’Shevat seder, loosely modeled after the Passover seder.
III
“Far underground, the roots of trees are beginning to suck at earth’s replenished breasts. Their branches are beginning to grope toward the gathering light. There is barely any change to see; there is barely any change to hear. However, the turn of the year has come. The still and quiet months are over; the seed is quickening, life is reasserting itself. In this hushed moment, we celebrate the new year of the trees; and
the reawakening of the Tree of Life.” (Arthur Waskow, Seasons of Our Joy, p.105)
IV
In the Psalms it is written, “the righteous bloom like a date-palm; they thrive like a cedar in Lebanon; planted in
the house of the Lord, they flourish in the courts of our God” (Psalm 92:13-15).
V
“For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land, a land with streams and springs and fountains issuing from plain and hill; a land of wheat and barley, of vines, figs, and pomegranates, a land of olive trees and honey, a land where you may eat food without scarcity, where you will lack nothing” (Deuteronomy 8:7-8).
VI - From Psalm 104
Who waterest the mountains from Thine upper chambers; The earth is full of the fruit of Thy works.
Who causeth the grass to spring up for the cattle, And herb for the service of man; To bring forth bread out of the earth,
And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, Making the face brighter than oil, And bread that stayeth man’s heart.
The trees of the LORD have their fill, The cedars of Lebanon, which He hath planted How manifold are Thy works, O LORD! In wisdom hast Thou made them all; The earth is full of Thy creatures.
Text adapted from Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (https://rac.org)
Purim (and a little Passover)
Purim Schedule
Monday, March 9, Fast of Esther
Monday, March 9, 7:00pm - Return of the Melrose Philly Purim Celebration. The evening will feature a Megillah Reading enthusiastically interpreted and chanted by the incomparable Rabbi Robert Alpert and a fun-filled Purim spiel - The Jingle Spiel - by our talented Purim Players. Once again there will be a special guest appearance by the Fralinger String Band, one of Philly’s best.. Refreshments will, of course, include soft pretzels, Rita’s water ice, TastyKakes, and South Philly pizza.
Tuesday, March 10, 6:45am—Morning services, including reading of the Megillah
Wednesday, March 11, Shushan Purim
In case you’ve forgotten, here are some remembrances of Last Year’s MBIEE Purim Celebration
Passover Preview The next issue of the Shofar will be dedicated to Passover, which we observe from
April 8-16. Again MBIEE will conduct a Congregational Seder on the first night,
Wednesday, April 8, 6:30pm. This year the Seder will be led by Rabbi Sherman and
Cantor Freedman. The menu will feature traditional Passover items, including chopped liver,
chicken soup with matzah balls, and brisket. In the mean time, check out The Rabbinical
Assembly Pesah Guide; it is available at www.rabbinicalassembly.org and will be posted our
synagogue web site, www.mbiee.org.
Also, the annual Matzah Ball Bowl will be held on Shabbat morning, April 4 (Shabbat
HaGadol). This is a chance to test and show off your Passover literacy by answering well-
researched questions (the questions are researched but the answers are not) posed by
quizmaster, Rabbi Charles Sherman. Spectacular Passover-related prizes will be awarded to
the winners.
February - March 2020 The Shofar Page 7
Membership, Sisterhood, Inclusion, Israel
Membership Committee This past December 20th, we welcome 29 of our newest
members at our annual New Member Hanukkah Shabbat dinner. It was a delicious Israeli style dinner, including falafel, hummus, Israeli salads, pita, mini hot dogs, and sufganiyot for dessert, all catered by House of Kosher. Thanks to the sponsors of this event: Dr. David & Nada Berd and Hannah Klapholz.
Welcome to our newest members: Linda & Alex Katz. Sharon Sussman, VP Membership
Sisterhood Report Purim is coming, and we are once again going to offer
our Shalach Manos cards. For $12 we will send a lovely greeting card with a piece of candy to anyone you designate.
Sisterhood Shabbat will be on May 2. Any member who is interested in chanting Torah or leading a prayer, in Hebrew or English, should contact Ariana Burrows (215-635-5176).
Every Monday evening at 7pm is Sisterhood Mah Jong. Experienced players and beginners are all welcome. Cards are available for purchase.
On January 9 MBIEE hosted the second annual Women’s League Team Bingo. Members and guests from 11 sisterhoods in the region participated. With great pride we report that our team won the coveted Mathilde’s Cup, named for Mathilde Schechter, founder of Women’s League of Conservative Judaism. Now we just need a place to
display it.
We are having a Sisterhood meeting on Sunday, February 9. Please watch your email for details. If you don’t have email, we will call you.
We have a lot of planning to do and need everyone’s input.
Book Club An Unorthodox Match by Naomi Ragen, who recently
spoke at MBIEE, will be the focus of Sisterhood’s Sylvia C. Cohen Book Club meeting on Monday, March 2 . We hope to continue to discuss topics raised during her talk and further explore her characters and themes that make Ragen’s writing notable.
Participants in the Book Club come prepared for thoughtful discussion. We hope you will join us.
Sandy Pinsly, Facilitator
Inclusion Committee It is time to kvell over our huge success for the
Chanukah party at Artis Senior Living. Residents and staff enjoyed the discussion, art project and refreshments. Thank you to our volunteers; we could not have done this without you.
Once again we partnered with St. Christopher's Hospital for Children for the 25th Annual Greater Philadelphia Martin Luther King Day of Service. Through the generosity of our congregants we donated a variety of items, including hats, scarves, book bags, and notebooks that are often in short supply in impoverished communities. We received a gracious note from St. Christopher’s thanking us for our efforts. This event was organized by Sandy Pinsly, a long
time Child Life Volunteer at the hospital
We are now in the process of planning for Inclusion Shabbat, which will be held on February 29. Regina Levin will speak to us about living with a hearing disability and self-advocacy. The Inclusion Committee is sponsoring an extended Shabbat Kiddush. All are invited.
Several new projects are in the planning stages. We will share them with you in the coming months.
Jean Lisman and Honey Zazoff, Inclusion Co-Chairs
New: Israel Committee On January 13, nine members of MBIEE met to discuss
the formation of an Israel Committee to plan events based on a mutual love and concern for Israel. Several ideas came out of our meeting: On May 2 we will have a Israel Independence Day Shabbat, including a festive Israeli luncheon, a speaker, and Israeli songs. Also, we are considering organizing discussion groups and perhaps a debate.
The Kehillah of Old York Road is planning a celebration of the 72nd anniversary of Israel’s Independence on May 12 at Beth Sholom. Our committee has been invited to participate in the planning of this event.
We would love to have more members who share our love of Israel. Our next meeting will be February 10, 7pm. For more information, please call Judy Baker (215-887-1884) or Libby Goldman (215-885-0161).
Page 8 The Shofar Volume LXI, Number 3
Men’s Club News
The Men’s Club will be hosting a wine tasting dinner on Sunday, March 1, 4pm. Reuvain of Rosenberg’s Blue Star Wine Company will be speaking to us about the wines, which will be paired with a five-course dinner prepared by Boscov’s Catering. The event will be open to both members and non-members. The cost will be $36 per person, and we are asking for reservations to be made by February 24. Reservation forms are available from the lobby table, our web site (www.mbiee.org) and the eblast.
The Hanukkah raffle was a success, as usual. Here is a list of the lucky winners:
Rabbi Robert Layman The Medicine Shoppe Steven Gross Max Berlin Violet Zeitlin David Berd Ben Burrows Jay Rigberg (grand prize)
A Word About the Minyan: Two’s Company, Three’s a Crowd, Ten’s a Minyan
To maintain our morning and Saturday evening minyans and to honor the memory of Len Cohen, our long time minyan leader, we need more dedicated Minyanaires. Without ten daveners we are not permitted to: say Barchu, repeat the Amidah with the Kedushah, read Torah, or recite the Mourner’s Kaddish.
Can you make a commitment to attend one day a week or even one day a month? We start at 6:45am Mondays, Thursdays, and holidays, at 7:00am all other weekdays, and 8:45am on Sundays. The service takes 30-45 minutes, allowing plenty of time for Minyanaires to get to work or to Joey Tates for breakfast. Saturday evening services - Mincha, Maariv, and Havdalah - begin at sunset; exact times are provided on the home page of the web site (www.mbiee.org) and in the eblast.
Sign up by contacting Alan Berson (215-576-7811 or [email protected] or through the office).
Old Wine - New Ways of Purchasing This year we have a new list of kosher wines for sale and
a new way of purchasing them.
Any of the wines listed below can be ordered and purchased from the Men’s Club. If you fill out an order form, available on the table in the lobby, the order will be filled and ready for pickup any morning after Minyan and on most other days, except Shabbat and Yom Tov. You can visit the wine shop (in the cloak room) after weekday Minyans or by making an appointment with our sommeliers, Mitchell Pinsly ([email protected]) and Andy Black ([email protected]).
Now, for the first time, new and exciting wines also can
be purchased on-line by going directly to Rosenberg’s Blue Star Wine Company (onlinekosherwine.com). You can order one bottle, a full case, or a mixed case. Your wine will be delivered to our shul, and arrangement will be made for you to pick up and pay for it at a convenient time.
We hope that you will be pleased with these new choices of kosher wine and the new internet purchase option. Any oenological questions can be directed to Mitchell or Andy by email or by leaving a message in our office.
Red (New Additions) Bartenura Ovadia Reale Montepulciano d’Abruzzo $11.00 Cantina Gabriele Sangiovese $14.00 Ovadia Chianti $17.00 The Butcher’s Daughter Bordeaux Reserve $20.00 Segal’s Merlot Cabernet Franc Cabernet Fusion $15.00
White (New Additions) Cantina Gabriele Pinot Grigio $17.00 Bartenura Pinot Grigio $18.00 Baron Herzog Pinot Grigio $14.00
Oldies but Goodies Kesser Niagara Blanc $ 9.00 Baron Herzog White Zinfandel $12.00 Ben Ami Chardonnay $15.00 Binyamin Bin Merlot $15.00 Binyamin Bin Cabernet Sauvignon $16.00 Givon Emerald Riesling $10.00 Kedem Concord grape $ 8.00 Kedem Cream Red Concord $ 8.00 Kedem Cream White Concord $ 8.00 Rashi Claret $12.00 Rashi Moscato D’Asti $18.00 Yogev Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz $18.00 Segal’s Fusion Chardonnay $18.00 Bin Yamina Reserve $17.00 Bartenura Moscato $18.00
Important Update On Security at MBIEE As a security measure, we are requesting that all
congregants use their fob to enter the building. This identifies you as a member of MBIEE. The guard will
assist you by opening the door. If you don't have your fob, the guard will inquire as to the reason before assisting you. A protocol is in place for guests. If you have questions or concerns, contact Mitchell Pinsly([email protected]).
Rabbi Howard Avruhm Addison, the former spiritual leader of MBIEE, will speak at our shul on Thursday,
April 2 at 7:30pm. His presentation, entitled Seeking Redemption in an Unredeemed World, will be based on his recently published, same-titled book., and will be followed by a book-signing and reception. The book will be available for purchase on the night of the event and in advance through the MBIEE office.
The following is excerpted from a description of the book found on amazon.com: The
Talmudic scholar, Rava, said, “When assessing one’s life…the Heavenly Tribunal will ask… did you glimpse redemption? (BT Shabbat 31a). The Torah bids us to remember Redemption, initiated by the Exodus, “all the days of your life” (Deut. 16:3) … encompassing both This World and The World to Come.
However, contemporary Jewish scholars emphasize redemption within history, even when those redemptions are partial and fleeting. The essays in Rabbi Addison’s anthology offer diverse glimpses of how redemption might break through the fissures of our all-too-fractured world. Spanning theology, liturgy, spiritual guidance and practice, dreamwork, the arts, sociology and even politics, they open multiple doors through which the spirit of redemption may be glimpsed, welcomed and pursued
Rabbi Addison is the Gershom Scholem Professor of Jewish Spirituality at the Graduate Theological Foundation and directs its Doctor of Ministry Program in Jewish Spirituality. Ordained as a rabbi in 1976, he served in the active rabbinate for 40 years, retiring in June 2015 from MBIEE. He serves as Associate Professor for Instruction at Temple University. He is the author of The Ennegram and Kabbalah: Reading Your Soul, Show Me Your Way, The Complete Guide to Exploring Interfaith Spiritual Direction, and Cast in God's Image and is the co-editor of Jewish Spiritual Direction.
Study the Hebrew Prophets With Rabbi Jon Cutler
In this course Rabbi Cutler guides us to meeting the prophets as real people who live in real places at a given period of time. We’ll understand the message of the prophets within the cultural-historical framework of Israel and the ancient near East. Finally, we’ll examine some of the major themes of the Hebrew prophets and relate their messages to us today. All classes begin at 9:30am.
• Tuesday, January 28 - Introduction to Biblical Prophets
• Tuesday, February 11 - Early Prophets - Book of Judges, Samuel, and Kings
• Tuesday, February 25 - Latter Prophets: Isaiah • Tuesday, March 10 - Book of Esther • Tuesday, March 24 - Latter Prophets: Jeremiah • Tuesday, April 14 - Latter Prophets: Ezekiel • Tuesday, April 28 - Minor Prophets: Amos, Hosea,
Zechariah • Tuesday, May 5 - Summary of Concepts
This program is presented free of charge to members of MBIEE by the Adult Education Committee. Please call the office or send in an enrollment form (found on the lobby table, the web site, and eblast) to confirm your attendance.
The Prophet Elijah
Page 10 The Shofar Volume LXI, Number 3
Donor In Memory of:
Isaac Bak Boris Bak
Steven & Pamela Barrer Hilary Bitan
Lillian Barrer
Philip & Beatrice Barrish Nathan Katz
Michele Becker Max Becker
Stanton Bilker Harriet Schnitzer
Stanley & Mildred Brooks Norman Brooks
Benjamin & Ariana Burrows Rubin Mayer
Fannie Mayer
Arthur Mayer
Albert & Beatrice Butler Elizabeth Fisher
Sherrie Diamond Evelyn Diamond
Morris & Lena Brauner
Irwin Factor David Factor
Flora Fine Shafer Gilbert Fine
Howard & Anita Fishman Jack and Rose Fishman
Sylvia Rosenberg
Sally Ruby
Louis Kossay
Ron & Libby Goldman Edith Glassman
George Goldman
Merton & Rhoda Goodman Evelyn Finzimer
Ron & Margaret Gray Hiildegard Gray
Ernest Gross Roza Gross
Steven Hausman Sarah Simon
William & Bonnie Kanefsky Sarah Richter
Louis Kanefsky
Nelson & Sherrie Klein Murray Rosenberg
Rabbi Robert & Ruth Layman Bella & Julius Apatoff
Ralph & Ellen Levin Beverly Levinson
Hiida Goldstein
Franklin & Betsy Lewinson Samuel and Bella Dumbroff
Anna Lewinson
Herbert & Arlene Matt Irwin Wasserman
Lee & Barbara Michaels Louis Michaels
Mike & Soroosh Michaels Shimon Rahimi
Meir Mikail
Kolrat Mikail
Hoori Rahimi
Dr. Joseph Michaels
David & Viki Pashman David Pashman
Nisson Sher
Julius Pashman
Judith Reider Emanuel Reider
Lee & Nanette Schriftman Roy Schriftman
Sol Nirenberg
Jerry & Yonina Schuchman Murray Rosenberg
Sandy Schwartz Marvin Schwartz
Saul Gruber
Barbara Segall Esther and Jack Rosen
Faith Silver Harry Wachsman
Kay Wachsman
Morris and Joni Silver
Jack & Marcia Stecki Jeannie Rosen
Cecile Stern Boris Weinstein
David & Barbara Tecosky Minnie Segal
Lillian Weilerstein David Kaplan
Gerald & Betty Weiss Bernard Brosof
Anna Brosof
Marc Weiss
Joan Winokur Benjamin Gelman
Emanual Winokur
Phyllis Wise Reba Wise
Donald & Bonnie Wittenberg Rose Wittenberg
Isaac Bak Philip & Beatrice Barrish Stuart & Marilyn Bleznak Eric Salmansohn & Marcia Bronstein Stanley & Mildred Brooks Sharon Byer Robert Chanin Mark & Shelley Cohen Barry & Marilyn Einheber Jill Feldman Barry & Rona Ginsburg Mikel Goldblatt & Joan Polsky Lois Goldstein Maggie Goldstein Gordon Golkow Martin & Joyce Gometz Merton & Rhoda Goodman Ron & Margaret Gray Ernest Gross Margery Hesney Mark & Enid Horowitz Jerome & Marlene Jaffe Marcia Jasnoff Sandra Kayson Gunther & Ilsa Kirchheimer Hannah Klapholz Robert & Ellyn Klein Mel & Babette Krug Margo Kuno Avrum & Cynthia Lapin Bruce & Francine Levin Shirley Levin Franklin & Betsy Lewinson Ida Pomerantz David Pressman Geoffrey & Deanna Reiner Sheila Richman Donald & Marlene Rush Paul & Aviva Schieber Lee & Nanette Schriftman Jerry & Yonina Schuchman Roy & Shelley Schwartz Eric Key & Cynthia Silber MD Faith Silver Robert & Frances Sion Barney Stark Alan & Sheryl Stern Cecile Stern Daniel Stern & Randie Oberlender Avishay & Sheryl Tetro Dr. Robert & Sara Wenger Joan Winokur Donald & Bonnie Wittenberg Steven & Helaine Zlotnick
The Congregation gratefully acknowledges the following contributions made November-December, 2019
Contributions
February - March 2020 The Shofar Page 11
Contributions (continued)
Rabbi Frisch Aliyah Honor
Anonymous Weiss donation
Rabbi Cutler Thank you
Anonymous Memory of Emanuel Reider
Honor of Edith Reider
Natalie Gabai Memory of Sheila Pressman
Martin & Joyce Gometz Memory of her mother
Boris Kaplun Donation
Joseph Pressman Honor of Michael Eisman’s Bar Mitzvah
Honor of Brooks Anniversary
Memory of Berta Schwartz
Geoffrey & Deanna Reiner Donation
Helene Roth Memory of Jean Goldman
In gratitude for safety of Emily
Faith Rubin Aliyah honor
Amy Seidman Memory of Charles Lundy
Jack & Marcia Stecki Aliyah honor
Cecile Stern Honor of marriage of Rabbi Layman’s
grandson
Honor of marriage of Barrish’s grandson
Cantor & Mrs. David Tilman Donation
Donald & Bonnie Wittenberg Honor of Brooks Anniversary
Frederick Zorn Memory of Berta Schwartz
Paul & Aviva Schieber Memory of Len Cohen
Lawrence & Bonnie Solish Donation
Judy Baker
Memory of Diane Druckman
Honor of Nachmann’s granddaughter
Philip & Beatrice Barrish
Get well Don Wittenberg
Burton & Janet Eisenberg
Memory Charles Lundy
Jean Lisman
Honor of Brooks Anniversary
Adele Moseson
Memory of Rabbi Isaac Moseson
Howard & Rachel Resnick
Honor of Chester Heller Bar Mitzvah
Steven & Lynda Boardman
Honor of Brooks Anniversary
Donald & Bonnie Wittenberg Honor of Saundra Epstein
R. Force
Honor of Chester Heller
Anonymous
Honor of Rabbi Sherman/Wachs
Rudofker
Jill Feldman
Memory of Ron Feldman
Philip & Beatrice Barrish
David & Nada Berd
Steven & Lynda Boardman
Eric Salmansohn & Marcia Bronstein
Stanley & Mildred Brooks
Mark & Shelley Cohen
Murray Cowan
Barry & Marilyn Einheber
Burton & Janet Eisenberg
Jill Feldman
Barry & Rona Ginsburg
Mikel Goldblatt & Joan Polsky
William & Diana Goldshlack
Lois Goldstein
Gordon Golkow
Merton & Rhoda Goodman
George Hirschhorn
Mark & Enid Horowitz
Jerome & Marlene Jaffe
Joan Karpf
Arline Katz
Sandra Kayson
Gunther & Ilsa Kirchheimer
Hannah Klapholz
Nelson & Sherrie Klein
Robert & Ellyn Klein
Gary & Deborah Korus
Mel & Babette Krug
Avrum & Cynthia Lapin
Florence Leon
Bruce & Francine Levin
Ralph & Ellen Levin
Shirley Levin
Franklin & Betsy Lewinson
Michael & Jill Magerman
Mike & Soroosh Michaels
Saul & Ellen Miller
Mitchell & Sandra Pinsly
Ida Pomerantz
Jeff Portner
David Pressman
Pace & Mary Lou Reich
Judith Reider
Geoffrey & Deanna Reiner
Jay & Linda Rigberg
Gerald & Barbara Rosenthal
Arthur Rothstein
Gloria Salmansohn
Paul & Aviva Schieber
Jerry & Yonina Schuchman
Roy & Shelley Schwartz
Martin Selditch
Andrew & Michelle Shaer
Eric Key & Cynthia Silber MD
Faith Silver
Fran and Robert Sion
Barney Stark
Cecile Stern
Daniel Stern & Randie Oberlender
Avishay & Sheryl Tetro
Jonathan Tobin
Dr. Robert & Sara Wenger
Joan Winokur
Donald & Bonnie Wittenberg
Sheldon & Betsy Wolf
Steven & Helaine Zlotnick
Philip & Beatrice Barrish
Stanley & Mildred Brooks
Cantor Stephen & Randi Freedman
Ron & Margaret Gray
Chester Heller
Eugene & Roberta Rifkind
Rabbi Seymour Rosenbloom
Jerry & Yonina Schuchman
Corrections/Omissions from last issue
Frederick Zorn In memory of Beatrice Hirsh Zorn
In memory of Samuel Zorn
Amy Seidman In honor of Gene Rifkind’s 80th birthday
Page 12 The Shofar Volume LXI, Number 3
Services in the MBIEE Sanctuary
Shabbat & Yom Tov Morning .............. 9:15 am
Monday, Thursday & Rosh Hodesh ......... 6:45 am Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday .............. 7:00 am
changes with sunset times - see eblast or web site
Daily Minyan MBIEE conducts a daily morning minyan . Participation
is needed from all congregants to fulfill this mitzvah and to allow mourners to recite Kaddish.
The times of minyanim are listed above. There are mornings when regular attendees may be ill or away. Therefore, if you are available one day a week or even one day a month, your attendance would be appreciated.
You can help by calling Alan Berson (215-576-7811) or the MBIEE office.
Question: How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Answer: Practice, practice, practice! If you are 26 year old Ari Sussman, son of MBIEE vice-president, Sharon Sussman, there’s another formula: Get yourself recognized as one of the foremost young composers of classical music in America.
Ari has received a commission from the New York Youth Symphony to write new orchestral works to be premiered by
the orchestra at each of its three concerts at Carnegie Hall during the 2020-2021 season. NYYS calls him a “promising emerging composer.” Described as “invaluable” by The New York Times, the NYYS First Music commission program has been widely acknowledged for the
past 37 years as one of the leading forces in the United States for bringing the work of gifted young composers to public attention.
Christopher Theofanidis, chair of the First Music orchestra advisory board, speaks from his own experience as a previous winner, saying, “The NYYS First Music competition is a truly unique opportunity for young composers to work with the exceptional student ensembles of the New York Youth Symphony, as well as to have their work premiered at Carnegie Hall by this excellent group of young musicians. I can’t wait to hear what the 20/21 season winners compose this year!”
The first performance of Ari’s music will be performed on Sunday, November 22. Get your tickets now.
Abraham E Steinberg Abraham Levinsky Abraham Lipschutz Alan Lewis Saxe Alexander Oberlender Anna Green Anna Lewison Arthur Stern Bella Apatoff Benjamin Gelman Benjamin Glass Benjamin Lubin Benjamin Moses Snyder Bessie Shugerman Betty Blanck Blanche B Eisenstein Boris Bak Boris Weinstein Brian A Budman Cecelia Ceasar Lukoff Charles Bacal Charles Epstein Daniel Hirsch Eisman David I Hurvitz David Lauer David Prell Dora Pomerantz Dorothy Klein Dr. Joseph Michaels Edward Sherman Elizabeth Salamon Elliot Nires Emanuel Winokur Emil Altenberg Esther L Fleisher Esther Miriam Foxman Esther Wolfert Eva Gekoski Evelyn Broder Fannie Chudnoff Fannie Sher Fannie Whitman Fritz Nachmann Gertrude Goldis Gida Nachmann Harry C Gordon Harry Paletz Hattie Lauer Helen Brody Henry Hersch Herbert Weaner Herman Horwitz Herman Schwartz Herman Snyderman Hermina Kurschner (continued next page)
The yahrzeits of the following loved ones occurred from December, 2019-January, 2020
Page 14 The Shofar Volume LXI, Number 3
Yahrzeits (continued)
January, 2020
Hildegard Gray Honey Merin Goodman Howard Pinsly Hyman Chernikoff Ida Globman Ida Jaffe Irving Silver Isaac Resnick Isaac Sidewater Isidor Jeremias Jack Schuchman Jack Turon Jacob Cogan Jacob Klein Jacob L Solomon Jacob M Cahan Jacob M Feinstein Jacob Rossman Jennie Goldsmith Josef R Friedman Joseph A Katz Joseph Goldstein Joseph Lichtenbaum Joseph Meiman Julius Apatoff Julius Brodsky Kate Weiner Lena Ehrlich Lewis Levi Lillian Margulies Lillian Schaeffer Louis Finkel Louis Globman Louis Kazansky Louis Kligman Louis Kossay Louis Rosenfeld Mae H Plotkin Marcia Silver Max Becker Max Kanfer Max Leibowitz Mayer Satinsky Meyer Globerman Meyer J Baranco Meyer Reich Michael J Weiner Minnie Greenberg Minnie Miller Mollie Rabinovitz Mollie Rosenberg Morris Sher Morris Weinstein Nathan Kaplan Nathan Sheinman Nathan Weitz Nathaniel Marcus
Nathaniel Marcus Nelle Reback Noah N Goldberg Patricia Fay Miller Paul Einhorn Paul Salamon M.D. Pauline Ellis Philip Wilder Rabbi Benjamin Blieden Rabbi Robert Joel Addison Ray Swarttz Reba Kligman Rev Avram Gershkow Robert Getz Robert Goldman Rose Blank Rose Trachtenberg Roza Gross Ruben B Chesnick Ruth Soloff Ruth Wenger Sadie Cohen Marron Sadie Orovitz Sadie Polikoff Sam Kosman Samuel Dorfman Samuel Novack Samuel Rogen Samuel Singer Sarah B Levin Sarah Glass Sarah Kaplan Sarah R Albert Sarah Rosengard Sarah Weinbaum Sarah Wolk Saul Gojchlerner Sheldon Barry Krantz Shirley Krantz Saul Simca Brodsky Simon Waldman Sol Nirenberg Sonia Y Lowenthal Sophia J Levinson Sylvia Glass Victor I Goodman Victor Plavner William H Goldberg William Zussman
Many thanks to the Melrose community for your heartfelt support during this difficult time. You provided so much comfort to my family and me after the loss of my beloved father. Your kindness touched us very deeply and we truly appreciate the way in which you helped to honor my father's memory. In Fondness & Gratitude Sheryl Tetro & Family
We express our sincere condolences to:
Baruch Schwartz and his family on the passing of Berta Schwartz B'M, wife, mother and grandmother.
Bonnie (Donald) Wittenberg on the loss of her brother, Robert Steele
Sara (Dr. Robert) Wenger on the passing of her father, Dr. Charles Hoffman
Honor and Remember: It is fitting that a member of the family be present at the minyan on the day of the yahrzeit. Anyone observing a yahrzeit is entitled to an aliyah, which is arranged by contacting Warren Nachmann through the MBIEE office. Also, the name of the remembered is announced from the pulpit on the Shabbat morning preceding the week of the yahrzeit. The memory of your loved one can be honored by making a contribution to the MBIEE Yahrzeit Fund, sponsoring a Shabbat Kiddush, or purchasing a Memorial Plaque.
Memorial Plaques Memorialize your loved ones by purchasing a memorial plaque that will be displayed on the walls of the MBIEE sanctuary in perpetuity. A plaque guarantees that Kaddish will be recited on each yahrzeit. For details, call Gunther Kirchheimer through the MBIEE office.
February - March 2020 The Shofar Page 15
MBIEE Contribution Form
Inclusion Fund
Max and Helen Steg Scholarship Fund
Minyan Fund
Prayer Book Fund
Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund
Rabbi Isaac Moseson Adult Education Fund
Samuel Miller Memorial Torah Fund
Security Fund (new)
Contributor ___________________________
Phone number ____________________
Name ________________________
Address ________________________ City _____________ State Zip _____
in honor of in memory of
I do not wish to publish my contribution in the Shofar.
Please submit, with check payable to: MBIEE
8339 Old York Road Elkins Park, PA 19027-1515
In the near future, it will be possible to make donations to the Shul through our web site, mbiee.org, and to complete your payment through a PayPal account or a credit card. Look for an announcement in the eBlast and a complete description of the new system in the next issue of the Shofar. MBIEE plans to expand the system to allow online payments for dues and shul events.
Proof Readers: Ron and Libby Goldman, Bonnie Kanefsky, Fran Sion, Sharon Sussman
The Shofar staff reserves the right to edit submissions. Objections can be reported (retroactively) to [email protected].
If you have some time to help us with any aspect of the Shofar production, don’t be shy. Contact us at [email protected].
Publication errors and mistakes: We attempt to be as accurate as possible concerning information in this Shofar. Due to tight deadlines and human imperfection, errors sometimes occur. We apologize in advance for any errors and request that you politely inform us of any that you may notice: [email protected].
Shofar Advertising Call the MBIEE office (215.635.1505) to be added to the new contact list for advertisers
Have you changed your address, phone number, or email address? Be sure to keep your information up-to-date with the MBIEE Office. You can email [email protected] or call the office during business hours.
eNews and Digital Delivery of the Shofar The eNews (eBlast) is distributed by email, using
Constant Contact, each Thursday . Submissions must be received by noon on Wednesday (email to [email protected]) to be considered for the Thursday eNews. Are you receiving the eNews every Thursday? If not, email [email protected] or call the MBIEE office (215-635-1505) to subscribe.
Beginning with the last issue, the Shofar has been sent to all congregants with email addresses using Constant Contact. Recipients of digital delivery receive the Shofar at least one week earlier than it takes for printing and snail mailing. Also, digital delivery allows recipients to see all photographs in color and to access the internet links that are now found throughout each issue.
