Temple Beth Torah NEWS FOR YOU November 2016 TISHREI CHESHVAN 5777

Similar documents
Temple Beth Torah NEWS FOR YOU December 2017 KISLEV TEVET 5778

Funding Our Future. Temple Sholom of West Essex

Congregation Beth El High Holy Days S lichot. Youth & Family

Tuesday, January 9 th, :45pm 8:00pm. Oceanside Jewish Center OJC

TEMPLE SHALOM COMMUNITY KICKOFF 5776 SEPTEMBER 20, 2015

TEMPLE B NAI TORAH CHAVURAH HANDBOOK

Ohave Sholom Synagogue

New Light News August, 2017

The Mitzvot Program AN ENRICHMENT PROGRAM FOR BAR/BAT MITZVAH STUDENTS. Dear Student and Parents

Temple Beth Electronic News

COVENANTAL NAMING CEREMONIES IN JEWISH TRADITION Compiled and Edited by Rabbi Harry Rosenfeld

For High Holy Days Services, please enter the building through the Russell Road doors unless you need access to the ramp.

A Comprehensive Guide For Welcoming Your Interfaith Family

Tikvatenu The Newsletter for Congregation B nai Tikvah The Established Conservative Congregation Serving San Diego s North County

A Comprehensive Guide For Welcoming Your Interfaith Family

Welcome Guide for Interfaith Families

BULLETIN. Beth Israel Congregation s

NEWSLETTER Congregation Sons of Israel

Temple Beth Shalom. Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Parent Handbook. Temple Beth Shalom 1461 Baltimore-Annapolis Blvd. Arnold, MD 21012

NEWSLETTER Congregation Sons of Israel

High Holidays 2015/5776

The 13 Mitzvot Temple Sinai

Look Learn Understand & Respect. One We care for the earth God is the creator, he cares for us God is creator of the world

High Holiday Marketing

Holy Blossom BECOMING A JEWISH ADULT: Life can blossom here. BAR / BAT M ITZVAH

Shabbat Shalom. Carnegie Shul Chatter January 3, The Case of the Disappearing Chanukkah Candles. Tikun Olam: Repair the World

PROGRAM GUIDE

SHABBAT SERVICES. Bat Mitzvah of Sela Komisar Saturday, August 5 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, August 2, Av Friday, August 4. Saturday, August 5

BAR AND BAT MITZVAH TEMPLE BETH ISRAEL

L dor Vador: From Generation to Generation Congregation Children of Israel Athens, Georgia

B nei Mitzvah. transmitting. The. Program. between generations, Timeline. ...The child stands. inheriting from the one and. to the other...

The High Holy Days. Questions and Answers to help you more fully experience and enjoy these Holy Days

YOM KIPPUR SERVICES Friday, September 29 7:00 pm Kol Nidre

Judaism. Founding and Beliefs. Tuesday, October 7, 14

Judaism is a religion based on principles and ethics found in religious texts of the Jewish people.

EDUCATION AT TEMPLE BETH EL OF SOUTH ORANGE COUNTY

The Outreach. The newsletter of the Milford United Methodist Church

9:30 pm Refreshments and Congregational Havdalah followed by Selichot Service (location to be confirmed)

Judaism is. A 4000 year old tradition with ideas about what it means to be human and how to make the world a holy place

B U L L E T I N. December President s Message. Friends,

Temple Beth Shalom. Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Parent Handbook. Temple Beth Shalom 1461 Baltimore-Annapolis Blvd. Arnold, MD 21012

Congregation B nai Israel Preparing for Bar/Bat Mitzvah

B NAI TORAH CONGREGATION

American Judaism. A Study in Culture and Family Strengths Dayna McKinnon FAML 160 Sister Watene 3 Dec 2011

BETH EL TALMUD TORAH

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8 10:00 AM at the Temple

CHAVURAH GUIDE Updated April 2018

Judaism Judaism stands apart from every other religion in that it is both

SPRING BRUNCH, MEETINGS TO PLAN OUR FUTURE, THE HASSAN FAMILY

5779 BETH ISRAEL BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Temple Shalom of Newton

Judaism. By: Maddie, Ben, and Kate

The Voice of Sisterhood

CONTENTS. Acknowledgments viii About the Contributors ix Preface xi Introduction: Renew the Old, Sanctify the New 1

Learning Areas. The NSW Board of Jewish Education SRE Primary School curriculum has a two-year cycle, and this is reflected in how it is mapped.

Origins of the Jewish Faith

Hill Havurah Annual Report Mark Sherman Chairman May 2015

A Synagogue for All Families. Interfaith Inclusion in Conservative Synagogues

A GUIDE TO THE JEWISH COMMUNITY

Thirteen Mitzvot Program

The Bar/Bat Mitzvah Family Handbook. Sutton Place Synagogue

Shabbat Chai & Hebrew School. Pre-Kindergarten through 7th / 5778 Aron & Sala Samueli Religious School. t Op. m u. u w. e i.

Beth Shalom Synagogue

July Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Shabbat Services, 6:00 PM, Lehrman Chapel with Beth El here

Temple Beth Torah Sha aray Tzedek. Hebrew School. Parents manual

Bar and Bat Mitzvah Preparation Fall 2012

Greetings! We hope your

Religious School Curriculum

CONGREGATION BETH OHR HIGH HOLIDAY 2017 SUPPLEMENT WELCOME TO OUR SYNAGOGUE

March 14th, Adar II, 5779

Temple Emanuel Welcomes. Interfaith Families. Temple Emanuel 385 Ward Street Newton Centre, MA (617)

Shabbat Chai & Hebrew School

Morristown Jewish Center Beit Yisrael

COMING SOON NOVEMBER 29 PAGE 4 THE SUKKAH PAGE 5. Special Kiddush Sponsors. Tishrei/Cheshvan 5774 October 2013 Volume 5/ Number 10

JUDAISM. Support Materials - GMGY - Beliefs & Religions. Introduction to Judaism

Chai Times. Volume 6 Issue 24

INTRODUCTION TO JUDAISM - Course Syllabus Page 1

SERVICE OF CELEBRATION TO GOD Fourth Sunday in Advent December 18, :00 am

June Dear Temple Sinai Bar/Bat Mitzvah Family:

Torah Time.

World Religions: Contrasting Philosophy. An explanation 6/26/2012. Judaism is the religious system of the Jewish people.

B nei Mitzvah Student Handbook

We ve packed so much in

This year our congregation's theme, Judaism From the Inside Out: Real Wisdom for Real Life.

WELCOME TO M KOR SHALOM!

New Light News December, 2018

The Conservative Synagogue of the Hamptons also thanks the following people for their donations made to this year s High Holy Days appeal:

Congregation Beth Israel!

Al Tifrosh Min HaTzibor - Not turning our back on TBS

Yom Kippur Morning 5778 The Blessings of Belonging Rabbi Karen S. Citrin

3330 Grove Avenue Richmond, Virginia

CALENDAR. of DeKalb and Sycamore Congregation Beth Shalom 820 Russell Road DeKalb, IL 60115

Welcome! Dena Morris Kaufman April, 2015 The Harold Grinspoon Foundation

Yizkor Yom Kippur 5776 Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin

Temple Beth Shalom. Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Parent Handbook. Revised 1/2016. Temple Beth Shalom 1461 Baltimore-Annapolis Blvd.

B NEI MITZVAH HANDBOOK

Celebrating the High Holy Days at Temple Beth Shalom Rosh Hashanah September 20-22, 2017 Yom Kippur September 29-30, 2017

Bar and Bat Mitzvah

Religious Guidelines for. Ohavi Zedek Synagogue. Table of Contents

Bar and Bat Mitzvah

Transcription:

Temple Beth Torah NEWS FOR YOU November 2016 TISHREI CHESHVAN 5777 Rabbi Dan Gordon SPIRITUAL LEADER BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND CHAIRPERSONS Jeff Kaufman PRESIDENT Stacey Blumin VICE PRESIDENT Bruce Pollard TREASURER Pat Klemz SECRETARY Martin Lorin DELEGATE Bob Abrasley DELEGATE Joni Levy DELEGATE Debye Lurie DELEGATE Castine Theriot RITUAL Hy Penn FUNDRAISING Carrie Keith EDUCATION Alan Solovay BUILDING Joy Fields CARING COMMITTEE Merissa Stein SISTERHOOD PRESIDENT Bruce Pollard MEN S CLUB PRESIDENT Stacey Blumin ADMINISTRATOR AND NEWSLETTER EDITOR MUSIC FOR THE SOUL CANTOR VADIM LEADS SPECIAL SERVICE WITH RELIGIOUS SCHOOL STUDENTS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11 7:15 PM Following a dynamic Simchat Torah concert with Rabbi/Cantor Robbi Sherwin, the TBT Religious School is continuing to explore a joyful connection with Jewish music. TBT recently received a special grant from the Houston Jewish Community Foundation to focus on inspiring children and adults through music. Cantor Vadim Tunitsky will be teaching students of all ages during Religious School on the Sundays prior to the November 11 service. Along with pianist Yana Didyk and Rabbi Dan Gordon, Cantor Vadim and the students will lead a Shabbat evening service that emphasizes the love of Judaism, the power of music and the joyful nature of Shabbat. Adults in attendance will find themselves singing along and feeling re-jew-venated as the music and the youthful spirit of prayer touches everyone s heart. The service will begin at 7:15 PM followed by a special oneg prepared by Religious School parents. Friday, November 4 Friday, November 11 Friday, November 18 Friday, November 25 Friday, December 2 Shabbat Services for November 7:15 PM Shabbat Service 7:15 PM Shabbat Service with Cantor and the Religious school students 7:15 PM Shabbat Service in Honor of Rabbi Dan and Loren on their upcoming marriage No Shabbat Service Temple Closed 6:30 PM Shabbat Dinner Pot-luck style SPECIAL SHABBAT DINNER AND PROGRAM FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2 AT 6:30PM Join us for a special Shabbat experience, as we get together for dinner and an exciting program. Rabbi Dan will lead us through prayers and we will enjoy a great meal together. A special program about a way to give back to the community will follow. TBT will be providing the main course and we ask that those attending bring a kosher style, salad, side dish or dessert to share. Please RSVP to Stacey at admin@tbthumble.org. Last minute additions will be welcome. There will be no regular Shabbat service on this date.

MISSION STATEMENT Temple Beth Torah is a congregation that embraces the philosophy and values of Judaism in the following ways: Spiritually, by celebrating the richness and traditions of Torah, prayer, holidays and life cycle events; Educationally, by encouraging learning, increasing Jewish knowledge and enriching understanding for children, teenagers and adults; Compassionately, by caring for our members and others in the Jewish community in times of need while also fostering positive relationships with our non-jewish neighbors. Temple Beth Torah embraces the spirit of inclusion for Jewish individuals and families who represent a variety of backgrounds and family compositions. Join Rabbi Dan at TBT as He Leads His Last Shabbat Service as a Single Man! Friday, November 18, 7:15 pm We want to invite everyone in the community to TBT on Friday, November 18 th at 7:15 pm as Rabbi Dan Gordon leads Shabbat worship on the eve of his marriage to Loren Meyer. Many of Rabbi Dan and Loren s family will be joining us. In Jewish tradition, the Shabbat before a wedding, the bridegroom is called to the Torah for a special Aliyah (Torah blessing), called in Yiddish an aufruf. This is especially joyous for TBT as we welcome Loren as our new Rebbetzin! We are so happy for Rabbi Dan and Loren and we hope as many people as possible attend this special service as we wish them a wonderful life together. TBT s Sisterhood is preparing a special Oneg Shabbat. Marshall and Baylee Gordon will be here from Pittsburgh, and are sponsoring the Oneg. It is being sponsored in honor of their son s wedding and in appreciation for the hospitality they ve always received from TBT members when they have come to Texas for High Holidays, Shabbat and Passover Seders. We hope you will be able to attend this special Shabbat service on November 18 th! EVERYONE Rocks when Robbi Rolls in! Rabbi/Cantor Robbi Sherwin has been part of many TBT celebrations in the past and rose to new levels this past Simchat Torah. A multi-generational blend was clapping and dancing and singing and celebrating the Joy of Torah. The sanctuary was filled with people as young as three weeks old and those old enough to have grandchildren and even great grandchildren of their own. Children danced with small paper Torahs and stuffed plush Torahs. Adults danced with the real Torah. We learned new songs and recalled old ones, all in the spirit of a joyful community celebrating the happiest of reasons to be together. After the concert, everyone enjoyed a wonderful lunch from Italiano s. It was such a beautiful day, concluding Sukkot and beginning Simchat Torah, that after the children had time to play on the playground, many crowded into the Sukkah for a picture. The concert and lunch, as well as Pizza in the Hut were sponsored by a gift from the Tom Theriot Memorial Program Fund of Temple Beth Torah. It was a fine tribute to Tom, whose greatest loves were family, children and music. While we are starting the year with such great appreciation for Jewish music, we are all looking forward to our students leading Shabbat services with Cantor Vadim on November 11. 2

RABBI S MESSAGE America and Judaism: Worlds of Disagreement and Reconciliation In 2005, the Supreme Court of the United States of America, in a 5-4 decision, ruled that the display of the Ten Commandments on government property in Kentucky was unconstitutional, violating the First Amendment s provision against the government establishing a religion. Ashkenazi (Eastern European) Jews do not eat rice on Passover, and usually name their children after relatives who have passed away. Sephardic (Middle Eastern) Jews eat rice on Passover and often name their children after living relatives. The principles of the United States and the principles of Judaism have a lot in common. They re both based on laws, but the practice is developed by the interpretation of those laws. And that s where disagreements come in. Tevya, the famous character in Fiddler on the Roof (originated by Sholom Aleichem s short stories) listened to one argument and say you re right. When he heard the second argument, he said, You re also right. The rabbi s son asked him, How can they both be right? and Tevya said, You know, you re also right! I find it interesting that America is so often referred to as a Christian nation when it seems to behave so Jewishly! In fact, honest, respectful disagreement is very much a part of how to be an American and how to observe Judaism. Jewish people will differ in their concepts of dietary laws, Shabbat observance, tzedakah priorities and righteous living. Sometimes, there are many right answers and one custom wins. Rabbi Shammai suggested eight Hanukkah candles be lit the first night with one fewer candle lit each night. Rabbi Hillel suggested we begin with one candle the first night and increase to eight by the final night. Shammai argued that in the story about the oil lasting eight days, there was less oil each night; Hillel countered that our joy increases throughout the holiday. Hillel s opinion became the practice, but like Supreme Court decisions, Shammai s minority opinion is still remembered. We hang our mezuzah at an angle in our doorways. Why? Rashi said that the mezuzah should be hung vertically, presumably to point toward heaven. His grandson said it should hang horizontally, perhaps to point inside the home. So, we compromise, and tilt the mezuzah. When Rosh Hashanah falls on Shabbat, Orthodox and Conservative synagogues do not blow the shofar. Many Reform congregations do, including Temple Beth Torah. Talmudic rabbis have offered both opinions. One says that because the shofar was blown on Shabbat/Rosh Hashanah in the days of the Holy Temple, we should continue the practice to remind us of our goal to have the Temple rebuilt; another says that because the shofar was blown on Shabbat/Rosh Hashanah, we should not blow the shofar on these days until the Temple is rebuilt. Both have valid points. Some Jews follow one way, some the other. The Talmud, the oral tradition that dictates most of Jewish practice, includes all the arguments, giving us the opportunity to study and explore those ideas that did not make it into modern practice. Like Supreme Court decisions, majority and minority opinions are published. And many times, the arguments continue. I recently heard a lecture by Dr. David Dow, a constitutional law professor from the University of Houston. He commented that the Constitution was formed to make enforcement of law obvious, and offered the question, So why do we have so many cases? Shouldn t most of these decisions be obvious? When he teaches in law school, he said that there are some laws that don t totally make sense; you just need to know which is which. He compared it to Jews knowing the difference between which blessings to recite. When do we say hamotzi, the prayer for bread, and when does the cake, or pizza, or cookies not count as bread and require a different blessing? Do we say the prayer for bread or grains over cornbread? Do we say the prayer for fruit from trees over banana bread? While Jewish people employ a variety of practices, we honor the concept of k lal Yisrael the whole community of Israel. We do our best to determine which practices make sense for us while respecting that another s opinion could be just as valid. It doesn t keep us from having disagreements and sometimes heated arguments. But hopefully, at the end of the day, we maintain respect for our differences as we share a people-hood. Continued page 4. 3

Rabbi s Message continued from pg. 3. Americans are about to choose a new president. There are passionate supporters and detractors of both candidates and political parties. Whoever becomes President must understand the concept of K lal America, and serve the whole community. Disagreements and discussions will continue, and hopefully, like Tevya, we ll be able to listen to the variances and see the valid points of each. In the Talmud, Rabbi Tarfon was asked by students, Which is more important, study or practice? He answered, Practice is more important. Rabbi Akiva said, Study is more important. The students were faced with two great teachers who said the opposite. So, they concluded, Study is more important when it leads to practice. And the mezuzah remains tilted. Let s keep our minds and hearts open to being part of two whole communities, as we recognize there s room for all of us in Judaism and in America. L shalom, Rabbi Dan Gordon NOTE: This was originally written and published for the TBT Newsletter in November, 2008, and subsequently also published the day before Election Day that same year. I wrote it because I observed such passionate disagreement between the major parties that I was concerned for America, and I have the same concerns for the 2016 election. I also have optimism in our country and the Jewish role and influence. The Jewish community has been set up to be a light unto the nations. We can disagree without being disagreeable (as Rabbi Stuart Federow of the radio program A Show of Faith says). For those who believe it is essential to elect the political candidate of their choice, I suggest it is equally important show civility and respect for those whose opinions and practices are different from our own. That s how the Jewish world survives, how our synagogue thrives, and how we, as Jews, can be the beacon of light to model understanding and respect. RDG TBT Cares Want to know how you can help our community and what is happening at TBT? It is now the Seasons of Sharing for Humble Area Assistance Ministries (HAAM) and we have been asked to provide cornbread mix (like Jiffy) for the holiday meal bags. Bring your donations to TBT and drop them in the brown basket. Thanks to the many busy volunteers this month bringing seniors meals for the Meals on Wheels program, hosting a Halloween party for the children of FamilyTime and participating at a Refugee Awareness Event. If you are interested in learning more about any of these activities or you have an idea, please contact Susan at spollard@tbthumble.org or call 281-446-5611 and leave a message. TBT Donate a Brick Campaign is Now Underway! As many of you know, Will Pollard has built a brick path in front of our Sukkah as part of his Eagle Scout project. We are now giving everyone an opportunity to donate an engraved brick for the path with all donations going to support Temple Beth Torah! This is a wonderful way to remember a loved one or honor a friend/family member. You can also use it to commemorate an occasion, like a bar/bat mitzvah, a wedding anniversary or a memorable birthday. Each brick can be inscribed with 3 lines and 20 characters per line (letters, numbers, spaces, punctuation and other keyboard symbols are considered characters). Various approved clip art designs can be made available for an additional $20 donation per brick. If clip art is used, the text is limited to 15 characters per line. All brick donations paid for before the end of 2016 will be at these special prices: 1 Brick= $100 2 Bricks= $180 @ $90/each 3 Bricks= $240 @ $80/each 4 Bricks= $280 @ $70/each 5 Bricks= $300 @ $60/each 6 or more Bricks= $50 a brick We hope you will be interested in participating in this mitzvah to support TBT! We need your donation by December 31 st!!! Questions? Please contact Jeremy Blumin at admin@tbthumble.org. The Ann and Stephan Kaufman Jewish Book and Arts Fair At the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center October 29 November 13 Inspiring and entertaining, the Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair annually delivers a variety of opportunities for the community to learn and experience Jewish literary, culture and performing arts. Not just for book lovers, the Fair also includes films, theatre, concerts and Oliver Lapin Family Day. Please visit this website for more information - http://www.erjcchouston.org/arts/jewish-book-arts-fair/ 4

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL CORNER Religious School students celebrated all the fall holidays from eating honey and apples and making shofars with Living Legacy to singing and dancing with torahs as the congregation celebrated Simchat Torah with Rabbi Cantor Robbi Sherwin and Rabbi Dan. It was a great way to learn about all the holidays and make lasting memories. This month we will have our first student led service on Friday, November 11 at 7:15 pm. The students are learning songs and prayers with Cantor Tunitsky. Please mark your calendars to join us at TBT on the 11th to show your support and encouragement of our students. Sunday, November 13th will be Breakfast with the Rabbi for students and parents in grades pre-k through 3rd. Please bring a breakfast item (kosher style) to share with the class. Bagels, coffee and juice will be provided. We invite all religious school families to participate in Shabbat services each week. Students can check off their names in our Shabbat notebook. We will have prizes for the best attendance from each class at the end of the school year!! Last year s winners enjoyed a yummy treat from Menchies. Attendance at Shabbat services also goes toward fulfilling the bar/bat mitzvah requirements for students in 4th grade and up. There will be no school on November 20 or 27 during the Thanksgiving break. Travel safely and have a wonderful gathering with family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving, Carrie Keith TBT Members TIME TO ELECT A NEW BOARD If you are interested in serving on the TBT board, would like to learn more about it, or have a suggestion of someone who might be interested in serving, please contact Susan Pollard at spollard@tbthumble.org Create Your Jewish Legacy at Temple Beth Torah Thanks to your support, Temple Beth Torah will remain a force in our community to inspire individuals and families to embrace Jewish values and practices that strengthen Judaism s role at home, in the synagogue, and in the general community. By making a legacy gift, you will be part of TBT beyond your lifetime. It s easier than you think and more meaningful than you know. There is no minimum amount required. Your legacy gift can be directed to a specific program. Your legacy gift can be easily funded from your estate. Please consider Temple Beth Torah in your will or estate plan. Visit: www.tbthumble.org Click on Give and choose Legacy Giving A letter of intent can be downloaded to fill out. Thanks to those who have already returned their Letter of Intent we truly appreciate your support! We have met our 1 st year goal of attaining 18 letters of intent and our 2 nd year goal of attaining 18 more letters is underway! Temple Beth Torah was selected to participate in the Houston Jewish Community Foundation s Create a Legacy Program. We are one of about 20 organizations in the Houston area that were chosen to be part of this. To learn more about how to create your Jewish Legacy, please contact Steve Heller, Hy Penn, or Rabbi Dan Gordon at admin@tbthumble.org or call 281-446-5611. ADULT EDUCATION - TORCH (TORAH OUTREACH RESOURCE CENTER OF HOUSTON) Start your Sundays with Adult Learning at TBT. Come at 9:15 AM for bagels and coffee and then join us for class at 9:30 AM led by Rabbi Wolbe from TORCH. Each session will be different and participants may come to as many as they can. There is no charge for the class and optional gifts of tzedakah are welcome. Sunday November 6, 2016 Parsha Lech Lecha Sunday November 13, 2016 Parsha Vayeira Sunday November 20, 2016 Parsha Vayishlach Sunday November 27, 2016 Parsha Vayeshev 5

Give a Gift to TBT! A New Fundraising Program at Temple Beth Torah is Underway! A new fundraising initiative has begun at Temple Beth Torah: Give a Gift to TBT! Please look for items needed by TBT on the bulletin board in the synagogue s foyer. Take the paper with the item you would like to donate and bring the item to TBT. It s that simple!! Some of the needed items are kitchen/bathroom supplies, Oneg supplies, and office/school supplies. Items can be left in the kitchen to the right of the stovetop. Please place a note on your item so you can be acknowledged. We will even take checks to defray some of our ongoing expenses. These needed donations will also be listed on cards on the bulletin board. Checks for monetary donations can be made payable to Temple Beth Torah. Please contact fundraising chair Hy Penn at fundraising@tbthumble.org with questions or suggestions. We hope you will be interested in participating in this program of tzedakah and help our synagogue. Thanks to all those who helped in October!! Men s Club Brisket and Football Sunday, December 4, 12 noon game time Join the men of TBT to root for the Texans and enjoy some Texas Brisket. For more information, please contact Bruce Pollard at bpollard@tbthumble.org Sisterhood News Fill The Basket Pot Luck Dinner Wednesday, November 9th 6:30-8:30pm at Temple Beth Torah Join the fun and Fill-The-Basket, an event to support HAAM's holiday food drive. Bring canned goods or other non-perishable food items. Please bring a dish to share and join in a pot luck dinner. For more information or to RSVP please contact Merissa Stein at tbtsisterhoodpres@gmail.com THE CARING COMMITTEE The Caring Committee can help in stressful times, such as family illness, death, birth, etc. We can provide a meal and offer sympathy, transportation, childcare, or congratulations for simchas. If you know of a congregant who could use a little caring, contact Joy Fields by e- mailing tbtcaringcommittee@gmail.com or by leaving a message at TBT, 281-446-5611. ONEG INFORMATION Thank you to everyone who has provided an oneg recently. They have been delicious and a highlight to every Shabbat. Thank you also to those who have sponsored an oneg with your generous donations. Preparing an oneg is a wonderful way to celebrate a special event. It is also a way to commemorate a yahrtzeit for a loved one. If you would like to do an oneg, please leave a message for Carrie Keith at 281-446-5611. Or visit our signup genius site at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0e45a9ad23a31- shabbat Passing of Mary Conway Mary Duveen Conway (nee Carney) died the day after Yom Kippur. Mary and her husband, the late Irving Hauptman, had joined Temple Beth Torah to be close to their daughter, Bernice Troxclair and her family. After Irving died, Mary re-married Mel Conway and moved to California. Mary was buried in a private ceremony next to her mother s grave near Hillsboro, Texas,, and a memorial service was held at Temple Beth Torah. Mary is survived by her husband, Mel, her children, Alice, Bernice, Carole, Diane and Edward, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren. 6

Simchas in November Birthdays 2 Vitaly Aizenberg 4 Rosalind Mandell 7 Mike Stark 9 Brian Eoff 10 Larry Rhines Mike Weisberg 16 Sharon Heyman 17 Bradley Heller 21 Arthur Aizenberg James Eoff 23 Chris Baur Alice Kaufman Emily Levy 24 Liz Smith 25 Rachel Pollard 27 Isaac Couch Mindy LaCour Anniversaries 1 Mike and Penny Stark 7 David and Sharyn Harris 8 Marvin and Maxine Sussman Ken and Bernice Troxclair 28 Bob and Debbie Swaim Food for HAAM TBT collects food for HAAM on an ongoing basis. Whenever you attend services, classes, or events at TBT, please remember to bring nonperishable items with you to help stock HAAM's pantry. Every item helps! Thank you for your support. Torah Portions for November, 2016 Compiled by Rabbi Dan Gordon November 5-6, Noah, Genesis 6:9-11:32 Noah s story is about new beginnings. Noah, having been righteous in his day gains G-d s trust, and his family becomes the sole survivors of the Great Flood. The evil world is washed away, and Noah and his family were given the opportunity to rebuild and repopulate. In a new sign of things to come, G-d establishes a special relationship with mankind with a unique promise: to never again destroy the world. The multi-colored rainbow becomes the everlasting symbol of this promise. As the rainbow is both filled with color and mysteriously impossible to touch, we might contemplate our mysterious relationship with G-d that has many different facets. As the generations of Noah lead to Abraham, we establish the tradition of promises and covenantal relationships. November 11-12, Lech L Cha, Genesis 12:1-17:27 G-d speaks to Abram for the first time, establishing both blessings and covenants. Abram shows his faith to G-d by leaving his home and following G-d s plan. It is unclear from the Torah why Abram was chosen, but midrashic stories hint about a special a special connection, with Abram believing in the one true G-d in a world of idol worshippers. To solidify a promise, G-d changes his name to Abraham, which means father of many, and declares that he will be blessed by all nations, and will have a legacy of many offspring. November 18-19, Vayeira, Genesis 18:1-22:24 There are many tests in this Torah portion. Visitors come to see Abraham, and he welcomes them with extraordinary hospitality. Sarah and Abraham learn that, despite their advanced years, they will have a son together. G-d consults with Abraham about His plan to destroy Sodom and Gemorrah, and Abraham negotiates a plan to try to save the city. Later, Abraham is tested by being asked by G-d to sacrifice Isaac. Abraham is prepared to make this ultimate sacrifice before an angel of G-d stops him. November 25-26, Chaya Sarah, Genesis 23:1-25:18 Almost immediately after the near-death of her son, Sarah dies at 127 years old. Abraham wants to make sure she has an honorable burial. Though the landowner offers to give him burial land for free, Abraham insists on paying the full price. He then sends his servant to look for a wife for Isaac. Rebecca, a distant cousin, is chosen because her kindness to humans and animals indicates a unique sensitivity. 7

DONATIONS GENERAL FUND Jewish Federation of Greater Houston - to help with water damage Hy Penn and Lynn Gordon In memory of Mary Conway mother of Bernice Troxclair For the speedy recovery of Scott Kaufman In Honor of the upcoming marriage of Loren Meyer and Rabbi Dan Gordon Elaine and Walter Heller In Honor of Bradley Heller being recognized by his teachers, and his trip to Washington DC In Honor of the upcoming marriage of Loren Meyer and Rabbi Dan Gordon Raymundo and Gloria Mendez Jeff and Alice Kaufman In honor of their granddaughters baby naming TOM THERIOT FUND Cantor Robbi Sherwin John and Bobbylee Ruskis Paul and Janet Sisler Jeff and Joanie Spalter Greg and Mindy LaCour in memory of Bernice Troxclair s Mother RABBI DISCRETIONARY FUND Jeff and Joanie Spalter November Yahrzeits The following names will be read each week during November to acknowledge those who have passed away who were connected with our community. If there are mistakes or omissions, please e-mail the temple at admin@tbthumble.org or leave a message at 281-446- 5611. Solomon Block, Frances Strizzi, Freda Rae Cahn, Morris Schalet, Natha Lee Rubin, Frances Rubin, Simon Rubin, Dr. Marvin P. Farber, M. Paul Farber, Bill Gaile, Pincus Silverman, Ernest Graf, Arnold Kharasch, Freda Kharasch, Esther Kaufman, Yakov Royzengurten, Lenore Greenbaum, Billie Pollard, Frances Greenbaum, Tony Sulpezio, Marie Rackmil, Evelyn Haidnick, Alfred Lubin, Joseph Scwartzberg, Lena Wallach, Myron Gross, Louise Post DONATIONS Making a donation to TBT is a perfect way to honor a joyous occasion, like a birthday, anniversary, wedding/engagement, new home, job change, or retirement. It is also appropriate to honor someone who has passed away with a donation in his/her memory at the time of the passing or on the yahrtzeit (anniversary) of the passing. All donations to Temple Beth Torah are tax deductible. You can choose where you would like your donation to be applied. GENERAL FUND Any donation that is not specified to another specific fund goes to the General Fund, which helps maintain the operating budget of the temple. Building expenses, insurance, staff salaries and all program expenses that are not underwritten come out of the General Fund, as well as support for the Religious School. RABBI S DISCRETIONARY FUND This separate tzedakah fund enables the rabbi to make confidential contributions to help individuals and causes that may be in crisis. The rabbi may also use this fund to help support unbudgeted programs that will benefit the temple or community. BURT LEVY MEMORIAL LIBRARY FUND This fund maintains the library and helps purchase new books. Our library, located in the back of the sanctuary, is named after TBT s founding president, Burt Levy, who was a major inspiration in starting Temple Beth Torah. TRACY TOBIN JOHNSON MEMORIAL EDUCATION FUND This fund provides scholarships to Jewish summer camps for children and for educational conferences for teachers. It also helps support special educational programs that are not in the general budget. The fund honors Tracy Tobin Johnson, who was an active TBT member, volunteer and teacher before passing away at a young age. TOM THERIOT MEMORIAL PROGRAM FUND This fund supports special dynamic programs, often related to the arts. It is named after Tom Theriot, a lover of the arts, who was a constant presence at TBT and supported every cause. DONATIONS NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE You can now make donations online for any fund donation except for dues payments and the Building Renovations Fund. Now there is an easy way to honor the memory of loved ones or acknowledge a joyous occasion by giving tzedakah. Tell your friends and family to visit our newly named website, www.tbthumble.org, to make use of this mitzvah. Or SEE THE DONATIONS FORM ON PG 9 8

Please consider making a donation to support Temple Beth Torah s many worthy endeavors. You can indicate which fund you would like your contribution to support on the form below, as well as the names of those you wish to honor or remember. You may contact the Temple by calling 281-446-5611 with any questions. THANK YOU Please mail your donation and form to the Treasurer at: Temple Beth Torah 320 Shallow Drive Humble, TX 77338 From: In honor of In memory of TEMPLE BETH TORAH Donation Form Thank You! Name Please apply donation to (check one): General Fund Rabbi s Discretionary Fund Burt Levy Memorial Library Fund Tracy Tobin Johnson Memorial Education Fund Tom Theriot Memorial Program Fund Please send acknowledgement of the donation to: Name Address TEMPLE BETH TORAH 320 SHALLOW DRIVE HUMBLE, TX 77338 (281) 446-5611 WWW.TBTHUMBLE.ORG 9

NOVEMBER 2016 TISHREI CHESVAN 5777 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 Shabbat Service 7:15 PM 9:00 AM Religious School 11:30 AM Hebrew School 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Sisterhood Pot-Luck Dinner at TBT 6:30 PM Oneg: SPECIAL Shabbat Service with Cantor Vadim Tunitsky 7:15 PM 9:30 AM Adult Ed TORCH Class Oneg: Ellen and JQ Delap 9:00 AM Religious School 11:30 AM Hebrew School 9:15 AM Breakfast with Rabbi Dan for 3yr old 3 rd grade parents and students 9:30 AM Adult Ed TORCH class NO Religious School 9:30 AM Adult Ed TORCH class 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Shabbat Service 7:15 PM Oneg: Sisterhood - sponsored by Marshall and Baylee Gordon 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 TEMPLE CLOSED NO SHABBAT SERVICE NO Religious School 9:30 AM Adult Ed TORCH class 27 28 29 30 DEC 1 2 3 Shabbat Dinner 6:30 PM NO SERVICE AT 7:15PM 10

Temple Beth Torah 320 Shallow Drive Humble, TX 77338 (281) 446-5611 www.tbthumble.org 11