Temple Beth-El Bulletin 211 Belknap Place | San Antonio, Texas 78212 | 210-733-9135 | 210-737-8946 fax | [email protected]Vol. 18, No. 9 October 1, 2015 — 18 Tishri 5776 beth-elsa.org UNDER OUR DOME AND REACHING BEYOND Temple Beth-El was organized in 1874 and is a founding member of the Union for Reform Judaism. Join us for Drink, Nosh, & Listen to Live Jazz In the Jacobson Garden & J.Y. Golden Sukkah. Featuring a special Jazz ensemble put together for this occasion. $10 per person – pay online at beth-elsa.org/JazzSukkot Sunday, October 4, 6:30 pm Service for Erev Simchat Torah and Consecration Rite of Three Generations: Zoe Perloff, Jennifer and Saul Perloff, and Alice and Ronald Perloff The names of babies born in the last year will be read. Complete unrolling and re-rolling of the Torah in Temple aisles, with interactive Torah readings Hakafot (Parade of the Torah Scrolls). Dancing and special Oneg in the Barshop Auditorium. Monday, October 5, at 10:30 a.m Atzeret-Simchat Torah Morning Service with Yizkor- Memorial Prayers in the Wulfe Sanctuary Atzeret-Simchat Torah NFTY-TOR Fall Conclave See page 11 for details. Q&A About Our New Commitment Policy – page 10
16
Embed
Temple Beth-El Bulletin · PDF fileTemple Beth-El Bulletin 211 Belknap Place ... Jennifer and Saul Perloff, and ... Temple Beth-El has a rich history of
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
Transcript
Temple Beth-El Bulletin211 Belknap Place | San Antonio, Texas 78212 | 210-733-9135 | 210-737-8946 fax | [email protected]
Temple Beth-El has a rich history of working with our community neighbors of other faiths to make San Antonio a city where people of all faiths, races, genders and income levels can live in safety. Religious leaders in our community, including generations of Temple clergy, have fought to make the city of San Antonio one in which we can all be proud to live. Temple Beth-El is committed to welcoming, educating, and building
relationships with our neighbors of other faith traditions. On many Shabbats, we welcome church groups or Religion classes attending Shabbat services in order to learn more about Judaism and our traditions. With this in mind, we will offer several opportunities for Interfaith interactions at Temple Beth-El.
Service and Conversation – an opportunity for people of other faiths to have a docent-led tour of Temple Beth-El, attend Shabbat evening services and Oneg Shabbat and a Q&A session with one of our clergy. We will invite the congregations in our Neighborhood Faith Convening group as well as other congregations and college groups to attend one or more of these sessions. We hope that our congregants will make an effort to interact with our guests on these evenings for a true interfaith interaction.
Exchange with Antioch Baptist Church in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. weekendJanuary 15 and 17, 2016
Temple Beth-El and Antioch Baptist church will worship together on Friday, January 15, 2016 and Sunday, January 17, 2016. Pastor Kenneth Kemp will preach at Temple Beth-El on Friday and the Antioch Baptist Church choir will join the TBE volunteer choir, Kol Simcha, in song. On Sunday morning, Rabbi Nathan will preach at the Antioch Baptist church and Kol Simcha will join the church choir in their worship.
The Pursuit of Harmony: Concert & Conversation: Can a Palestinian Muslim and a Jewish American find a common bond through music?February 5-7, 2016
American Jewish composer and performer Michael Ochs & Palestin-ian songwriter/recording artist and peace activist Alaa Alshaham will join us for a weekend of music and dialogue as we discuss the ever chal-lenging and often painful relationship that exists between Israeli and Palestinian people and their leaders. Hear their story. Share in their music and feel the hope…so that we can experience one another’s humanity and begin building a bridge to peace, together.
I hope that you will plan to attend one or more of these events and welcome our guests. Join Rabbi Nathan, Rabbi Yergin and me in continuing Temple Beth-El’s long history of building relation-ships with our neighbors of other faith traditions.
Cantor Julie Berlin
The Cantor’s NotesHave small children? Looking for ways to be
connected to other Jewish families in San Antonio? Temple Beth-El has many ways for you to be part of
our Reform Jewish Congregation. For more information about these and other Young Family programs contact Jen Eichelbaum at [email protected] or Susan Rosenberg at [email protected]
Welcome Shabbat with Celebrations Geared
Towards Your Young FamilyKABBALAT FAMILY SHABBAT, 5:30 pm, Oppenheimer Chapel, 1st Friday of every monthFriday, October 2, 2015
This family friendly service is an informal way to welcome in Shabbat with prayerful singing, fun kid-friendly instruments and an engaging Shabbat story.
For your older ones… Club Shabbat will be held at 5:30 pm. Send your students—grades 4-7—to the Youth Lounge where our teens will lead them in a Shabbat experience under the guidance of our Director of Youth Engagement Sam Stern and our song leader Stefano Iacono. They’ll join up with us for dinner as well. Want more information on Club Shabbat? Contact Sam Stern at [email protected] or 210-733-9135, x151.
These services are followed by an optional community dinner at 6:15 pm in the Barshop Auditorium with table blessings and an activity table for the kids. Make a reserva-tion at http://bethelsa.formstack.com/forms/tbe_ fsd or by calling Dollie Closna at 733-9135 ext. 126. Please let us know by Tuesday, September 29, if you will be joining us for the potluck dinner and what you will be bringing. Your reservation helps insure there will be food for all who are joining us.
FAMILY SHABBAT, 9:00 am, Oppenheimer ChapelSaturday, October 17, 2015
Pre-schoolers –Third Graders and their parents are invited to join in prayer, song, story and special birthday blessings as part of a family Shabbat experience. Family Shabbat will be held on the 3rd Saturday of every month at 9:00 am in the Oppenheimer Chapel. Join Rabbi Yergin for this special service.
Running at the same time as Kabbalat Family Shabbat, Club Shabbat is a newish program about having fun while being Jewish! We will have a creative prayer experience on Shabbat evenings led by teens for grades 4-12. Then we will all join together for dinner with our younger friends at Family Shabbat! Join us for the first Club Shabbat on Friday, October 2 at 5:30 pm.
Temple Beth-El Bulletin – October 2015 Page 3
Shabbat ServicesOctober 2
5:30 Kabbalat Shabbat Family Service 6:30 pm Shabbat Worship Service
October 310:30 am Shabbat Morning Worship
10:30 am Chant and Meditation Service— Dreeben Family Pavilion
Torah Portion Chol Hamoed Sukkot
October 96:30 pm Shabbat Worship Service
participation from our volunteer choir, Kol SimchaBat Mitzvah of Merrill Ann Kasanoff
October 1010:30 am Shabbat Morning WorshipBat Mitzvah of Merrill Ann Kasanoff
Torah Portion B’reishit
October 166:30 pm Shabbat Alternative Lay Lead Worship Service—Barshop Auditorium
10:30 am Shabbat Morning WorshipBar Mitzvah of Zachary Ramiel Berg
Torah Portion Noach
October 236:30 pm Shabbat Worship Service with the
accompaniment of the Temple Beth-El Band
October 2410:30 am Shabbat Morning Worship
Torah Portion Lech L’cha
October 306:30 pm Library Shabbat Worship Service
Bar Mitzvah of Jeremy Mitchell Schur
October 3110:30 am Shabbat Morning Worship
Bar Mitzvah of Jeremy Mitchell SchurTorah Portion Vayeira
Temple Beth-El Bulletin (USPS 016328) is published the first of every month, except July, by Temple Beth-El, 211 Belknap Place, San Antonio, Texas 78212-5896. Applica-tion to Mail at Periodicals postage rates is paid at San Antonio, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Temple Beth-El, 211 Belknap Place, San Antonio, Texas 78212-5896.
B’nei MitzvahWe Congratulate Those Who Will be Called to the Torah in October
October 9-10, 2015Merrill Ann Kasanoff, daughter of Katy Hirst and Howard Kasanoff, granddaughter of Susie Kasanoff and the late Malcolm Kasanoff, and Gerald and Alice Hirst.
October 16-17, 2015Zachary Ramiel Berg, son of Jessica and Ryan Berg; grandson of Kathy Ramiel and the late Alan Ramiel; Brenda and Lee Berg; and great grandson of Eleanor Fier and Louise Gartner
October 30-31, 2015Jeremy Mitchell Schur, son of Elizabeth and Larry Schur, and grandson of Lee and the late Robert Schur and Jerry and the late Bettie Lu Rice
Kiddush Hosts October 2: Temple Beth-El Sisterhood October 9: Howard Kasanoff and Katy Hirst October 16: Jessica and Ryan Berg October 23: Temple Beth-El Sisterhood October 30: Elizabeth and Jeremy Schur
Is Someone in Your Family under 1 Year Old?
We will read the names of all babies born in our Temple family* since last Simchat Torah (October 15, 2014) and will say a special blessing at services on the eve of Simchat Torah in the Wulfe Sanctuary on Sunday, October 4, at 6:30 pm.
Please forward information to Dollie Closna at [email protected] or 733-9135 x126.* “Temple family” includes babies born to Temple members,
grandchildren, and great grandchildren, whether or not they live in San Antonio. We want to celebrate your joy!
Page 4 Temple Beth-El Bulletin – October 2015
@TBE20s30sTemple Beth-El’s group for 20s and 30s is now called
@TBE20s30s. Our first town-hall style meetings and Dessert & Discussion were productive brainstorming sessions for new events, activities, and hangouts. If you are in your 20s or 30s and are interested in participating, leading, or even suggesting an event, let Lacey Dalby, Alex Stubbs-Trevino, or Rabbi Marina Yergin know or email us at [email protected]. Don’t forget to like our page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TBE20s30s and be on the lookout for Twitter, Tumblr, and Instagram accounts!
Upcoming Events:
October 8, 6 pm — McNay Museum Fun Celebrate “Second Thursdays” with @TBE20s30s
for a night of FREE fun on the museum grounds. Each month features music from a local band, food for sale from San Antonio’s best food trucks and beer courtesy of Crispin Ciders.
October 25, 9 am — NFTY-TOR Fall Conclave Breakfast
@TBE20s30s will be hosting breakfast for the 120+ high school students who will be calling Temple Beth-El home for the weekend. We want to show them that there is an active and vibrant Jewish life after college, which means we need YOUR help! Please let us know if you are available to help in any way by emailing [email protected] or to just ask us about volunteer opportunities.
October 30, 8 pm — @TBE20s30s After Hours
Our After Hours program is back!! We will have a potluck Shabbat dinner in the Block Conference Room at Temple Beth-El after Shabbat services. Bring whatever food and snacks you wish to share! Please let us know what you will be bringing by emailing [email protected]. P.S. Don’t forget, Halloween is right around the corner so feel free to keep things spooky!
@TBE30s40s+Joyride Texas at ALON
Join your friends from the Temple for some exercise and fun while supporting the Temple
Thursday, October 22, 6:30-9:00 pm
6:30-7:30 pm Spin Class (first 35 only)$30 per rider – all proceeds go to Temple Beth-El
7:30-9:00 pm Spirits and Snacks for all
RSVP to Jessica Berg [email protected] your favorite spirit or snack to share
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram TBE30s40s and/or on Twitter @TBE30s40s for fun photos and reminders of upcoming events.
Save these dates! Nov. 12, Dec. 3, Jan. 14, Feb. 11, March 10, April 7, May 12
@TBE30s40s+ is a way to deepen a sense of community among Temple Beth-El members in their 30s-40s and beyond. If you are interested in hosting and/or in helping to plan some of our events, contact Jessica Berg [email protected] or Aliza Cantu [email protected].
New Jews-by-Choice We congratulate those who converted to Judaism in
a ritual conducted by our Rabbis and Cantor in the Wulfe Sanctuary on September 1. Dr. Stancia Alvarez (Shacha Chesed bat Leah), Brandon Consevage (Rotem), Cameron Ervin-Dillard (Chayim Chadash), Virginia Anne Galaviz Eisenberg (Chava), Sally Jean Hutchinson (Shoshana T’chelet). Dorothy L. Marton (Neta), Cheryl Patton (Aviva Shoshana), Chelsea M. Thompson (Chaviva Miriam) Lacy Kintyhtt Tull (Miriam), Levin P. Tull, III (Gavriel), Caryn Athena-Renee Turner (Ariela Yehudit). As always, we are grateful to our Temple Sisterhood, which generously provided a reception following the ceremony.
Shabbat After 6:30All those age 50+
are invited to attend a no-host dinner Friday, October 16
at Los Barrios, 4223 Blanco Road, 210-732-6017Immediately after Shabbat Eve Services
Reservations needed— reply online at https://bethelsa.formstack.com/forms/tbe_sasix
Call Mindi Silver-Weiss at 823-7295 or Nancy Gerson at 240-4578 for additional information.
Temple Beth-El Bulletin – October 2015 Page 5
Shabbat Lunch HavurahSaturday, October 3, 11:45 am
after Shabbat Morning Worship in the Barshop Auditorium
Catered Deli Lunch & viewing of the movie, “Deli Man”
This Shabbat Lunch is FREE for those 65 and older, and only $5 for those under 65. RSVP to Dollie Closna at [email protected] or 733-9135, ext. 208.
Thanks to Golden Manor Jewish Senior Services for a generous grant which makes
this program possible.
Temple Member Named Programs Director at GMJSS
Golden Manor Jewish Senior Services (GMJSS) is excited to announce that Christina Weinfeld has joined their team as Programs Director.
Christina is a native Texan, who has been very active in the Temple Beth-El (TBE) community and the San Antonio Jewish Senior community. She is a graduate of both the Federation’s and TBE’s Young Leadership Programs. She has led many TBE efforts, served on numerous TBE committees and currently is a TBE Board
Member. GMJSS got to know Christina as a wonderful volunteer at numerous GMJSS events and she could always be called upon to lead services for GMJSS at Golden Estates. She has already made a difference at GMJSS with helping them move forward on a number of programs that will be brought to the SA JEWISH SENIORS (55+) community in the coming months.
Stop by to meet and congratulate Christina.
We note with sorrow the passing of our members…
Harris Kochhusband of Joyce Koch and father of Laurie Van Fleet
Arnold Goldhusband of Betty Gold
The Congregation extends its sincere condolences to the family of…
Joel H. Pullenfather of Scott (and Rachel Stern) Pullen
Anne Lichtensteingrandmother of Randy (and Amber) Alwais
Gildardo Acevedouncle of Mayra (and Dr. Adrian) Salama
Tod Tecktielfather of Rabbi Marina (and Dave) Yergin
Samuel Kleinfather of Dan Klein
“May their souls be bound up in the bonds of eternal life.”
In the Temple FamilyWe congratulate those who have achieved something extra-special…
Dr. Richard Wayne, who will be honored at the University of the Incarnate Word “Cardinals for Kids Winter Gala,” as the recipient of the Sister Walter Maher Humanitarian of the Year Award.
Mark Eichelbaum, who was recognized by the San Antonio Business Journal as an outstanding COO for a small business (Cram Roofing).
Al Kauffman, who received a Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Legal Service, from MALDEF, the nation’s leading Latino legal civil rights organization.We congratulate those celebrating milestone birthdays in October…
Anna Aaron, Jessica Berg, Phyllis Braverman, Lois Cohodas, Clarance Dickinson, MGen. Abe Dreiseszun, Dr. Chuck Feldstone, Steven Fiero, Bernice Fischl, Helene Fitell, Tyler Freed, Bob Gernsbacher, Barbara Goldstein, Trudy Harris, Margo Hoenig, Nat Jefferson, Fran King, Elisa Kurzban-Ruiz, Arthur Lefton, Ruth Lerner, Susan Loyd, Dr. Scott McLean, Lynette Miller, Nicholas Quintero, Hannah Reich, Nathan Reich, David Rosow, Ruth Schapira, David Straus, Amy Strickland, Rose Wallace, Stevie Weissman, Janet Westheimer, David Wolf, Lacey Wulfe, and Michael Wulfe.
An extra-special birthday wish to Bill Cohodas, who will be 101 in October!We congratulate those celebrating milestone anniversaries in October…
20 Years: Sharon and David Adelman, Tracy and David Goldstein, Christi and Stephen Lang
25 Years: Julie and Joe Dubrof, Kim and Gilles Ghez 30 Years: Debbie and Mark Feinberg 35 Years: Ann and Dr. Hank Lipsitt 61 Years: Jennie and Stanley Schoenbaum
Join us for our
New Member Welcome Shabbat Dinner
Friday, October 16, 7:45 pm after Shabbat Eve Services
All those who have joined the Temple in the last year will be honored – come help us show a hearty and warm welcome! Enjoy a delicious catered Shabbat Dinner for
only $18 per person – RSVP and pay online at www.beth-elsa.org/NewMemberDinner
Full and partial scholarships available by contacting Rabbi Nathan or Geri Gregory.
In their capacity as the new co-chairs of the Shalom Committee, Marcia and Sandy Katz are excited to announce a redefined mis-sion for the Committee. After surveying the innumerable tasks the Committee has been responsible for, the focus of activity for the Committee will shift to a more open and hospitable approach to welcoming both members and strangers into our midst, especially around worship service times. Marcia and Sandy both believe the congregation needs to ramp up our efforts to make Temple Beth-El as warm and welcoming a place as possible.
Soon after the High Holy Days, the role of usher will gradually morph into a new role of “Greeter.” Ushers by definition focus on deco-rum, while “Greeters,” among other things, introduce newcomers to “regulars.” Our congregation, like so many of our size, also contains regulars who know very little about each other. It is hoped that our new approach will also pro-vide the opportunity for regulars to get to know one another as well.
Also, as part of this shift of emphasis, you will note freer access to the worship space. It will no longer be necessary to stop and pick up a prayer book upon entering as the books will be made available in the pews. As worshipers arrive, they, in all likelihood, will be met by a Greeter who will, among other tasks, take the op-portunity to introduce newcomers to regulars and regulars to other regulars when appropriate. Greeters will also provide all worshipers with the familiar, weekly, “Order of Service” printouts.
The hope is that as we get used to coming in contact with Greeters, we will begin to see significant movement in the direction of becoming a truly welcoming congregation. There are plans to have quarterly training sessions for those interested in learning how to be a Greeter — watch your Temple Bulletin for upcoming dates for these sessions! This effort will require a lot of volunteers who will then take the opportunity to become one of the Greeters who will make the difference in our transition to a new level of hospital-ity at Temple Beth-El. If interested, please contact: Geri Gregory at [email protected], Marcia Katz at [email protected] and Sandy Katz at [email protected].
Wulfe Sanctuary Ark and Torah Stands
We were delighted to receive great feedback about the upgrades to the interior of the Wulfe Sanc-tuary ark which were completed last month. While the improve-ments were designed to enhance the beauty of our sacred space, they were also functional. The previous design made it difficult for some people to physically reach all of our scrolls. The new design places the scrolls on indi-vidual rollers making them much more accessible.
We also have two new Torah stands which match the other bimah furniture. They were used during the High Holy Days and will be used regularly throughout the year. We are grateful to Arlene Dryer who dedicated the Torah stands in memory of Rabbi Richard Dryer.
Many thanks to our Build-ing Committee and Interiors Committee who worked with our designer, Gene Hausman, throughout the process.
A Special “ Thank You”We thank Jen Eichelbaum
for embroidering a Torah Scroll dedication, and Lacey Dalby for stitching that dedication onto the Torah Cover.
Temple Beth-El Bulletin – October 2015 Page 7
August 30 Religious School Open House
The familiar rhythm of back to school always hits us hard after our restful summers. At TBE, we wanted to turn the back-to-school hustle and bustle upside down and instead get our families excited and ready to celebrate the new school year ahead, and we did just that!
With the holidays so late this year, opening day wasn’t until late September so we decided to host a back to school open house celebration on August 30, giving families a chance to socialize, stu-dents a chance to meet their teachers, and for everyone in the school to have a great time together.
We began our morning with a song and silly introductions of the staff and teachers. We then led the families through a series of stations in which students and their parents played “Under the Dome” trivia, participated in team building mixers, ate a fun snack that they created, got signed up for all of the volunteer opportuni-ties, and designed a take home calendar with all of the amazing opportunities listed for the year. After the stations, students went with their teachers and their class, while parents attended a training session on how to be an awesome religious school parent.
There were smiles. There was ruach, spirit. There was excite-ment. There was community. We are ready for our year!
Boker Tov Café!
Bagels, Juice, Coffee and Hot Chocolate for sale Sunday Mornings beginning at 8:30 am
Get your bagels, cream cheese, jelly, juice, and coffee — just what you need on a Sunday morning! If you’re in the building, can you volunteer to help? Contact Jeff Goldblatt [email protected]. All proceeds benefit the TBE youth fund.
Adult Learningwith Rachel Stern
Sunday Mornings, 9:30–11:00 am
October 18, 2015:How Jewish Ethics Can Guide
the Life of Our Family
November 1, 2015:Modern Ethics in Jewish Law: A Look at Responsa Literature
December 13, 2015:The Ethical Implications for
How and What We Eat
February 7, 2016:Take a Walk on the Wild Side? What Judaism
says about: Tattoos, Gambling, Drinking, Sex and other ‘Sinful’ Topics
March 27, 2016:Yetzer Ha Ra/ Yetzer Ha Tov: What Judaism Teaches About Knowing Right from Wrong
April 3, 2016:Chochma, Binah, Da’at:
Understanding the Stages of Moral Development in Jewish Tradition
May 1, 2016:What Would You Do? Judaism Edition…
Explore Real Life Ethical Dilemmas from a Jewish Perspective
ADULT EDUCATION 5776 2015-2016
The Ethics
of Judaism
The great, inherent quality in Jewish character is compassion. The Jew who is not compassionate to all that God has created is no true Jew.
— Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch
The focus of our adult learning this year will be on the many facets of ethics in Judaism. As the Talmudic Sage Rabbi Akiva taught, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” is the most essential principle in all of Torah. Treating others fairly and lovingly is not seen as a worthy act among many, but as the most important act in Judaism. In addition to year-long and extended study opportunities, we will have several wonderful visiting artists and scholars to enjoy.
Check the Temple Beth-El Bulletin and website as we continue to confirm and schedule our
adult learning opportunities for 5776.
www.beth-elsa.org
Year Long LearningTorah Study
Saturdays, 9:00–10:00 am
Join with other dedicated learners as we continue to make our way through the entire Torah text. For more than 20 years we have gathered on Saturday mornings to engage in a close reading of the Hebrew Bible. All learners are welcome to share in the dialogue and discussion.
Adult B’nei Mitzvah Class with HagitWeekly at Temple Beth-El, Class will begin October 7, 2015
Participants learn to read and chant the prayers in both the Friday night and Saturday morning services as well as to read from the Torah and to chant from the Haftarah. No previous knowledge of Hebrew is necessary for this class.
This 18 month class will be limited to 12 participants. If you are interested, contact Sara Planto in the office of Lifelong Jewish Learning 733-9135, x108.
Introduction to JudaismWednesdays, 7:00–9:00 pm
This 18 week course—team taught by our clergy—is a wonderful way to learn the basics about Judaism or refresh your knowledge of the holidays, life cycle, history and key theological themes of our faith. A new class will form in January.
Completion of the Introduction to Judaism course is a requirement for all conversion candidates. If you are interested in exploring the conversion process please contact Iris Berman-Smith or 733-9135, x106
Special Learning OpportunitiesSave the date for these wonderful visiting artists & scholars. Saturday, December 12, 2015
Lunch & Learn: Medical Ethics — Rabbi Julie SchwartzContinuing the celebration for Rabbi Yergin’s installation, join us in a lunch and learn session taught by Rabbi Julie Schwartz,
one of Rabbi Yergin’s former professors.Rabbi Schwartz is the first woman rabbi to serve on active duty as a chaplain in the United States military. She is certified as a
Jewish chaplain by the National Association of Jewish Chaplains and a certified supervisor of Clinical Pastoral Education. In the early 1990s, she established the first CPE program for rabbinic students. Rabbi Schwartz is the founding rabbi for the Weinstein Hospice in Atlanta Georgia and currently serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor of Human Relations and supervises the programs in Clinical Pastoral Education at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati, Ohio.
January 19-24, 2016
Musician in Residence, Noah AronsonNoah Aronson is an energetic and soulful composer and performer whose unique musical style propels his music into
communities across the country and in Israel. Noah will be with our congregation to work with our religious school students, our choir and our congregation over the week culminating in a joyous Shabbat Shira celebration.
February 5-7, 2016
The Pursuit of Harmony Concert & Conversation: Can a Palestinian Muslim and a Jewish American find a common bond through music?
American Jewish composer and performer Michael Ochs & Palestinian songwriter/recording artist and peace activist Alaa Alshaham will join us for a weekend of music and dialogue as we discuss the ever challenging and often painful relationship that exists between Israeli and Palestinian people and their leaders. Hear their story. Share in their music and feel the hope…so that we can experience one another’s humanity and begin building a bridge to peace, together.
April 15-17, 2016
Rabbi Mary Zamore, The Sacred Table: The Ethics of how and what we eat in Jewish tradition.Rabbi Mary Zamore is the executive director of the WRN (The Women’s Rabbinic Network) and the editor of and a contributing
author to The Sacred Table: Creating a Jewish Food Ethic (CCAR Press, 2011), which was designated a finalist by the National Jewish Book Awards.
Join Rabbi Zamore as we consider the many facets of Jewish perspectives on food and the ethical ramifications for how and what we eat. Our Life Long Jewish Learning Committee will be working with Rabbi Zamore during the year to plan our learning sessions for the weekend.
The Ethical Tradition of Rabbinic JudaismJoin us for one, a few, or all sessions.
The ethical teachings of the rabbis are timeless lessons on the importance of Torah, the history of the Jewish people, and the ways we can each be better people.
A Psycho-Spiritual Exploration of Ethical Living: Moses Maimonides’ Shemonah PerakimJanuary 13, 20, & 27, 2016 7:00–8:30 pm — with Rabbi Mara Nathan
“Shemonah Perakim (literally eight chapters)… reflects much of Maimonides’ sentiments and advice regarding the pursuit of virtue and the avoidance of vice. …The medieval philosopher’s notion that the ethical could be deduced from some kind of analysis of the human soul seems distant to us. Yet, as…Jews who are part of a tradition devoted to the good, we are forced to be interested in the determination of what is good, as well as how we are to reach that good…”
[from Shemonah Perakim- a treatise on the Soul, translation and commentary by Leonard S. Kravitz & Kerry M. Olitsky]
Session 1: Elohai N’shamah — the pure soul — Making sense of the good and the bad within us all
Session 2: B’tzelem Elohim — in ‘the image’ of God — Barriers that exist between God and humans
Session 3: Tzedek v’Emet — Truth and Justice — Defining what it truly means to be a ‘tzadik’ (a righteous person)
Pirkei Avot: How Torah Shapes Our LivesMarch 22, 29, & April 12, 2016 7:00–8:30 pm — with Rabbi Marina Yergin
Pirkei Avot, the Ethics of the Fathers, is a Mishnaic tractate full of wise words spoken by Rabbis. Discover how these teachings affect us today.
Session 1: What is Pirkei Avot and what are we supposed to do with Torah?
Session 2: How do we teach and study Torah?
Session 3: How does Torah shape us?
Page 10 Temple Beth-El Bulletin – October 2015
Mussar: Jewish Spirituality for Better Living
Mussar learning and practice contin-ues at Temple Beth-El beginning October 18, 2015. Mussar is a thousand-year-old Jewish system for personal growth. It is aimed at elevat-ing one’s character, or what Mussar
calls soul traits (middot). Practices include meditation, chanting, studying Mussar texts, engaging in Mussar discussions, and keep-ing a daily journal on the middot that practitioners discover to be obstacles in their lives.
Though Mussar practice is often viewed in ethical terms, it is at its core a method of drawing oneself closer to God. According to Alan Morinis, founding director of The Mussar Institute, “To single out the ethical, behavioral, or practical elements without reference to the religious or spiritual aspects is to distort what Mussar is and has always been.”
At this time, we are pleased to be able to offer the continuation of Middah a Month.
Middah a Month
Middah a Month will be offered from 9:30-11:00 am one Sunday a month, beginning October 18 and running through May, 2016.
The Middah a Month program provides rich materials for continuing Mussar study and practice, including texts from both modern and traditional Mussar sources, discussion questions to help deepen your own understanding, and suggestions for your monthly affirmation. It is open to those who have completed A Season of Mussar I or who have taken an online class, either Everyday Holiness or Path of the Soul. Since Middah a Month is a continuing program and a new middah is explored each month, those who have previously participated in Middah a Month are encouraged to participate as well.
The Middah a Month va’ad will be led by Jonathan Fink. Jonathan has been a member of Temple Beth-El since 1999. He is originally from the Washington D.C. area where his father Arnold Fink (z’l) served for 33 years as senior Rabbi at Temple Beth El in Alexandria, Virginia. Jonathan is founder and principal consultant of TSI Global Consulting LLC, an international trade and export compliance consulting practice. He also currently serves as an Adjunct Professor at San Antonio College where he teaches economics. Over the years he has also served on the adjunct faculty at St. Mary’s University, Palo Alto College and the University of the Incarnate Word. He holds a Masters Degree in International Relations from Boston University and is all but dissertation (ABD) having completed doctoral degree coursework in International Development at the University of Southern Mississippi. He and his wife Elizabeth have two children, Joshua (16) and Amanda (14).
REGISTRATION: All participants must register for the course. Registration deadline is Friday, October 9. FEE: $100 per individual. (Nobody will be denied admission because of inability to pay. Please contact Rabbi Mara Nathan regarding scholarships if needed.)
If you would like to assist others with scholarships for this course, we ask that you donate an additional $25 at the time of registration.
To register and pay your Mussar course tuition fee contact Sara in the Office of Lifelong Jewish Learning [email protected] or call 733-9135 extension 108. (Checks payable to Temple Beth-El)
Information About Our New Commitment Policy
Temple Beth-El’s Board of Trustees introduced a new com-mitment policy designed to better fulfill our sacred mission and stimulate membership giving and growth.
The new policy moved us away from a traditional dues system and replaced it with a personal pledge system. Now, your pledge (an investment in the Temple’s future) is up to you. It is designed to build membership by adopting a policy that is more closely aligned with contemporary Jewish culture and values. And to give con-gregants the free will to give more and increase their support. In fact, we hope it will inspire 100% of our members to increase their commitment dollars. Your personal contribution creates change and impacts lives while shaping our financial future.
How much should you pledge to support the works and pro-grams of Temple Beth-El? It’s simple. Give to your heart’s content.
Important Questions you might ask us.
Q: Why is this change occurring/happening?
A: After much research and counsel, Temple Beth-El’s Board of Trustees is introducing a new commitment policy designed to better fulfill our sacred mission and stimulate member-ship giving and growth. The new policy moves away from a traditional dues system to a personal pledge system. Now, your pledge amount is up to you, hopefully backed with a bet-ter understanding and awareness that it is both a vital part of operating the Temple of today while also serving as an invest-ment in Temple’s future. The new policy is designed to do two things. First, we hope it will build membership by adopting a policy that is more closely aligned with contemporary Jewish culture and values, and make us more accessible to prospective members. Secondly, it is intended to invite congregants to give more and increase their support. In fact, we hope it will inspire 100% of our members to increase their commitment dollars. Your personal contribution creates change and impacts lives while shaping our financial future.
Q: How will the new policy work?
A: Instead of paying an assigned dues amount, each member household has the responsibility to fairly assess its own com-mitment level and to give accordingly. Members are now asked to contribute based on what the household determines is consistent with their ability to support, sustain, perpetuate, and strengthen Temple Beth-El.
The sustaining contribution level is $2600, which reflects the actual cost per member household to maintain our Temple programs and facilities. As a guideline, Temple leadership has created recommended annual contribution levels:
Ner Tamid (Eternal Light) Levels • $25,000 and above M’lachim (Angels) • $18,000 to $24,999 Adumim (Pillars) • $10,000 to $17,999 Shomrim (Guardians) • $5,000 to $9,999 Manhigim (Leaders) • $3,600 to $4,999 Bonim (Builders)
Fall ConclaveSee first hand over a hundred Jewish teens learning, messing around, and being Jewish together
Help our teens pull off an amazing program (they can’t do it without help!)
Many blocks to choose from, or be here the whole weekend!
Friday Night • Teen registration table • Help set up food/clean up dinner • Supervision of teens • Welcome teens and guide them to
where they need to be
Saturday Morning 8:00 am to 12:00 pm • Welcoming and directing teens
to services • Program set up • Set up snack after services
Saturday Lunch 12:00 to 3:00 pm • Help set up/serve/clean up lunch • Program set up • Be present during dismissal • Those hosting teens leave at 2:30 pm
Saturday Evening 6:00 to 11:00 pm • Help set up Maccabiah/social • Help run games during Maccabiah • Supervise teens • Keep teens out of sensitive areas • Maintain the snack table
Sunday Morning 9:00 to 11:00 am • Help set up breakfast • Supervise teens
The Sisterhood Book Club will discuss The Bridal Chair by Gloria Goldreich on October 28 at 10:00 am.
Beautiful Ida Chagall, the only daughter of Marc Chagall, is blossoming in the Paris art world beyond her father’s controlling gaze. But her newfound independence is short-lived. In Nazi-occupied Paris, Chagall’s status as a Jewish artist has made them all targets, yet his devotion to his art blinds him to their danger.
The book selection for November 18 will be The Book of Joan: Tales of Mirth, Mischief and Manipulation by Melissa Rivers.
Melissa Rivers relates funny, poignant and irreverent observa-tions, thoughts, and tales about the woman who raised her and is the reason she considers Valium one of the four basic food groups.
If you are interested in attending our lively group contact Felice Feldman at [email protected] for a bibliography of the interesting books supporting the theme Celebrity in Fiction, Biography and Literature.
A Sweet Thank You!Special thanks to all who helped this year with our record
breaking Sisterhood honey sales and packaging — “Health, Happiness and a Sweet New Year!” Gayle Alterman, Mary Anne Barnett, Carol Bornstein, Ginny Burris, Aliza Cantú, Lesha Carlson, Fran Cohen, Stephanie Basile Drileck, Rhonda Grimm, Marcia Katz, Carole Kerman, Janie Kolman, Marsha Krammer, Michele Krapf, Linda Levy, Sharon Miller, Barbara Moss, Chantel Nasits, Nancy Portnoy, Miranda Sutin, and Shirley Swanson.
Mark your calendar today...in ink ! You won’t want to miss the opportunity to join
Temple Beth-El Sisterhood
Sip & SchmoozeWednesday, October 7, at 5:30 pm
StoneWerks in Lincoln Heights999 E. Basse Road, 78209
We look forward to spending a relaxing and friendly time
together at the end of the day…with YOU!
StoneWerks happy hour ends at 6:30 pm. Reservations encour-aged, contact Gayle Kipp at
Brotherhood LunchBrothers... did you know you have been
invited to attend a monthly luncheon? The Brotherhood luncheon is open to all members of Temple Beth-El, and easy to remember when. It’s noon on the first Friday of each month. Get away from work AND fellow workers. If you have a son, grandson, nephew, etc. bring them along. All are welcome to this short breaking of bread with chopsticks.
Come out Friday, October 2 at the China Inn, 2241 NW Military Hwy #101, 78213, 210-308-8277.
Chai Lights For Your Hanukkah NeedsBrighten up your home and holiday with a visit to the temple
gift shop’s Chai Lights, a display of everything you will need to celebrate Hanukkah — hanukkiahs, candles, dreidels, decorations, and lots of gifts to buy for friends or yourself.
On Sunday, November 1 Chai Lights will be in the Barshop Auditorium from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. In addition to gift shop items, there will be merchandise by local and Israeli artists, music, and food. There are items available for every taste and every pocketbook.
The shop is also open every Friday evening before services begin, as well as Sunday mornings during religious school. Hours by request are also available.
If you can help and want to be part of this joyous festival of light gift show, contact Janie Kolman at [email protected].
Sisterhood News
Sisterhood:The Original Social
Network
Library Shabbat October 30Please join us for Library Shabbat on October 30 in the
Wulfe Sanctuary. Help us honor our congregation’s librarians, readers and writers! This special Shabbat service will feature a congregant symposium including Marcia Goren Weser and Marvin Forland, M.D. who will be speaking about their favorite Jewish books.
Calling all writers at Temple Beth-El! Library Shabbat will take place on October 30. As part of
the program for the service, the Bendiner Library committee is compiling a list of published authors and their works. If you are a published author, please send your name and titles to Debra C. Morrow, library committee chair, [email protected].
RABBI NATHAN’S DISCRETIONARY FUNDFor The Speedy recovery oF
Marilyn Duchin Andrea and Dr. Jeffrey HoffmanIn honor oF Rabbi Mara Nathan’s Leslie Selig Byrd and Rick Byrd First Year as Senior RabbiThe marriage ceremony Julie Abrams Drs. Jerri and Barry Abrams and Benjamin PolanskyIn MeMory oF
Beth Jaffe Len and Fran KingRosa Toubin Jimmy ToubinCharlene Petlin Eleanor and Richard SelineArlene Berler Ann BarshopRuth Jean Gurwitz Jennie and Stanley SchoenbaumArlene Berler Jo Ann Wigodsky and in appreciation Mary and Dan WigodskyHarris Koch and in appreciation Joyce Koch and FamilyArnold Gold and in appreciation Betty GoldconTrIbuTIon Barbara Wulfe
RABBI YERGIN’S DISCRETIONARY FUNDIn MeMory oF
Tod Tecktiel Mark Friedman Arlene Dryer Kimberly and Joey Orellana Veronica Bargehr Leslie Selig Byrd and Rick Byrd Jimmy Toubin Geri Gregory Joyce Hammer Beth Jenkins Adrienne Swedlove
RABBI STAHL’S DISCRETIONARY FUNDFor The Speedy recovery oF
Jenny O’Connor Linda and Harry ScheiderMichael O’ConnorIn MeMory oF
Jack La Vine Sam and Harriet NeumanRuth Jean Gurwitz Ann BarshopElma Falkstein Janet and Joe Westheimer, Jr.Joe Westheimer, Sr.Diane Markuson Bahme Myra and Dr. Arthur BahmeIn ApprecIATIon And In honor oF
The marriage ceremony of Danielle Lynne Aranda and Russell Nelson Aranda and Brink AmeyconTrIbuTIon Wendy Drezek and Stanley Drezek, Jr.
CANTOR BERLIN’S DISCRETIONARY FUNDIn ApprecIATIon Nancy Belinsky and Dr. Debra WilliamsIn ApprecIATIon oF
The unveiling ceremony of Alvin Breit Phyllis BreitIn MeMory oF
Harris Koch Nancy Belinsky and Dr. Debra WilliamsSamuel Klein Marsha Krassner and Dr. David SpenerconTrIbuTIon Barbara Wulfe
GENERAL OPERATING FUND OF TEMPLE BETH-ELIn MeMory oF
Charlene Petlin Gloria and Gerald Silber Barbara and Alan DreebenArlene Berler Gloria and Gerald Silber Barbara and Alan DreebenRuth Jean Gurwitz Gloria and Gerald SilberHarold Vexler Barbara and Alan DreebenHyman Phillips Ruth ChafetzMarolyn CharlesMary Turk Barkin Shirley and Michael SwansonRosalie Pasternak Rosenbloom Jeannie and Alvin Frieden Barbara and Alan Dreeben Louise and Mike Beldon Susan and Brad Beldon
Harris Koch Elliott Cohen Beatrice Rosenstein Beverly and Jim Tsakopulos, Jr.Tod Tecktiel Anna Brower Ben Jolson and Brad Jolson Gillian Spence Marsha Krassner and Dr. David Spener Sharon JosephEvelyn Siegel Susan and Dr. Lawrence SiegelSamuel Klein Bill GoodmanArnold Gold Bailey and Gary GurwitzconTrIbuTIonS Frank Porter Capt. William Pope, Jr. William Silverman
JACK AND ESTELLE KAUFMAN COMMUNITY OUTREACH FUNDIn MeMory oF
Dorothy Jessel Prissy Kaufman
JACOBSON GARDEN FUNDIn MeMory oF
Ruth Jean Gurwitz Sanford GrossmanJo Ann Wigodsky Marian Miehl
JEAN AND JESSE WULFE RELIGIOUS ENHANCEMENT FUNDIn MeMory oF
Leon “Sonny” Wulfe, Jr. Barbara WulfeArnold Gold Sandy and Carl Wulfe
KIMMELMAN CHILD CARE SCHOLARSHIP FUNDIn MeMory oF
Tod Tecktiel Marcia Goren Weser and Dr. Elliot Weser
KITCHEN FUNDIn MeMory oF
Harris Koch Frances Goodman
LANDSMAN FAMILY RELIEF FUNDIn MeMory oF
Arlene Berler Alise Reicin, Marc Boiarsky and Bob Boiarsky
BETSY & LEE ROSENBERG GREENE FAMILY CAMP CAMPERSHIP FUNDIn MeMory oF
Joseph Stolusky Helenann LauberMerle Stolusky GoldstoneIrving LauberconTrIbuTIon Barbara Wulfe
LEONARD & SHIRLEY STERLING MEMORIAL LIBRARY FUND FOR THE BENDINER LIBRARYIn honor oF The bIrThdAy oF
Felice Feldman Carol and Bill BornsteinIn MeMory oF
David Garrison Judy, Bregger and Kirstin GarrisonSamuel Joseph Miriam Goldbarg Nat JeffersonSamuel Klein
OSIAS AND BEULAH WOLF “FEED THE HUNGRY” FUNDIn MeMory oF
Miriam Meyer Selma MintzRenee PomperRosa Lee Katz
RABBI MARK S. GOODMAN YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FUNDIn honor oF The bIrThdAyS oF
Sandy Katz Bonnie Reed and Stu SchlossbergMarti Raba Lynn Finesilver Crystal
— continued page 14
We Gratefully Acknowledge the Contributions of Our Members and Friends
Contributions received in the Temple office by Monday, November 9, will appear in the December Temple Bulletin. Contributions received after November 9 will appear in the January Temple Bulletin. Contributions are welcome to any of our funds at any time. For a list of Temple funds and their descriptions, go to
the Temple website at http://www.beth-elsa.org/Funds. You may also make a contribution online at http://www.beth-elsa.org/Donations.
Page 14 Temple Beth-El Bulletin – October 2015
Contributions — continued from page 13
In honor oF The weddIng AnnIverSAry oF
Linda Levy and Daniel Laser Bonnie Reed and Stu SchlossbergDee and Rick Carduner Jeannie and Alvin Frieden Toni Dollinger Block and Rabbi Barry BlockMartha and Rand Riklin Bonnie and Grant Lyons In MeMory oF
Ilene Oxenhandler Ilene Goodwoman and Robert WagonerRabbi Mark S. GoodmanJanet Goodman Charlene Petlin Bonnie Reed and Stu SchlossbergJo Ann Wigodsky
RABBI SAMUEL STAHL LECTURESHIP FUNDIn honor oF The bIrThdAy oF
Rabbi Samuel Stahl Prissy KaufmanIn MeMory oF
Charlene Petlin Hattie Lee GleichenhausJoAnn Wigodsky Arlene Berler Ruth Jean Gurwitz
New Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting
Sundays 5:00–6:00 pmJewish Community Center room 229
There is a new AA group in town founded by Jewish AA members, open to anyone who wishes to attend. If you think you might have a problem with alcohol, please join us on the high road to new freedom!
For more information: David M. 210-378-6846
Join our Congregation at the largest Jewish gathering
in North America!urj.org/biennial#URJBiennial
Bulletin DeadlineThe deadline for the November Temple Bulletin will be
Tuesday, October 13, at 12:00 pm. All articles and photos must be submitted by that time. Articles and photos may
be submitted via email to [email protected]. Articles may not exceed 250 words.
Temple Beth-El OmbudspersonIf you have a question or concern about Temple policy, process, etc.,
and would like confidential assistance in having your query answered, please call Marty Epner at 862-1500.
Q: What is a Ner Tamid (Eternal Light) Level?
A: We encourage members who are able to support the Temple be-yond the sustaining level to do so at an amount that is meaning-ful to them. Our Ner Tamid members provide critical support to the Temple, allowing us to open membership to the entire community regardless of financial ability. Ner Tamid members will be thanked publicly during the year unless anonymity is requested.
Q: Do I need to contribute at the recommended annual levels?
A: While we recognize that we are a diverse congregation with members who have a wide range of charitable giving capabil-ity, we ask every member to make a meaningful gift from the heart. For some that may be the suggested minimum contribu-tion ($1200), and for others it is at the M’lachim level ($25,000 and above). Those who are unable to contribute at the suggested minimum level can adjust their commitment level accordingly.
Q: Will other standard fees, i.e. COFR, security, special assessment continue to remain separate from our annual commitment?
A: COFR (Capital & Operations Fund for Resources) is our congregation’s building fund. All members households are asked to contribute annually to COFR in addition to annual membership commitment. This allows us to maintain our his-toric Temple and two cemeteries.
• For the initial ten years of membership, the annual Member Household COFR obligation is $240 (total of $2,400 over ten years). At a Member Household’s discretion, the initial COFR assessment may be made as a one-time contribution of $2,000 in the first year of membership.
• After the initial ten years, all Member Households will contribute a $60 annual COFR obligation.
• COFR is waived for active duty military. • COFR may be waived in cases of financial hardship. • At a Member Household’s option, COFR payments may
be deferred to begin at age 35, if applicable. All member households are also asked to contribute a
$55 annual security fee which may be waived in cases of financial hardship.
Q: Has this new type of commitment model worked successfully at other Temples?
A: A small but growing number of Reform congregations have moved to a similar commitment model. It has been the focus of much conversation among synagogue leaders throughout the country as they reexamine the old models of fixed dues sys-tems. The trend was featured in this 2014 article by Rabbi Dan Judson (http://rjmag.org/Articles/index.cfm?id=3338), a lead-ing scholar in synagogue finances. It was also a focus of this recent New York Times article (http://tinyurl.com/osw46kn).
Q: Is this a permanent change?
A: Our leadership believes that this new commitment model will strengthen our congregation, but it will take several years for us to realize its full potential. We know we have a congre-gation that loves our synagogue and wants to perpetuate its future. While no one has a crystal ball about the future, we believe this is a positive, long-standing change for Temple Beth-El and its membership.
Q: Who do I contact if I have additional questions?
A: Please feel free to contact our Executive Director, Rabbi Alan Berlin, if you have any questions. You can reach him at [email protected] or at 210-733-9135 ext. 118.
Information About Our New Commitment Policy— continued from page 10
9:00 am Shabbat Torah Study10:30 am Shabbat Morning Service and Bat Mitzvah of Merrill Kasanoff
5:30 pm Shabbat Nosh6:30 pm Alternative Lay Led Worship6:30 pm Shabbat Worship Service and Bar Mitzvah of Zachary Berg7:30 pm New Member Shabbat Dinner8:00 pm Shabbat after 6 :30 at Los Barrios
9:00 am Family Shabbat 9:00 am Shabbat Torah Study10:30 am Shabbat Morning Service and Bar Mitzvah of Zachary Berg
6:30 pm Shabbat Worship Service with Temple Beth-El Band
9:00 am Shabbat Torah Study10:30 am Shabbat Morning Worship
4:30 pm Mid-Week Hebrew at JCC7:00 pm Walking a Narrow Bridge
4:30 pm Mid-Week Hebrew at TBE7:30 pm Adult B’nei Mitzvah Class
Erev Simchat Torah9:00 am Religious School11:30 am Preschool Playtime12:00 pm Madrichim Training6:30 pm Erev Simchat Torah and Consecration
9:00 am Religious School9:00 am Grade 4 Family Education Day11:30 am Preschool Playtime
9:00 am Shabbat Torah Study10:30 am Shabbat Morning Service10:30 am Chant and Meditation Service11:45 am Shabbat Lunch Havurah 7:30 pm Jazz in the Sukkah
Simchat TorahTemple Office Closed 10:30 am Atzeret-Simchat Torah Morning Festival Worship Service with Yizkor
4:30 pm Mid-Week Hebrew at TBE5:30 pm Sisterhood Sip and Schmooze7:30 pm Adult B’nei Mitzvah Class
6:30 pm Shabbat Worship Service and Bat Mitzvah of Merrill Kasanoff7:30 pm Social Advocacy Potluck Dinner
12:00 pm Brotherhood 1st Friday Luncheon5:30 pm Kabbalat Family Shabbat Service5:30 pm Club Shabbat (grades 4-7)6:15 pm Kabbalat Family Dinner6:30 pm Shabbat Worship Service
NO RELIGIOUS SCHOOL3:15 pm San Antonio Chamber Music Society
10:00 am Sisterhood Book Club6:00 pm @TBE20s30s McNay Museum Fun
12:00 pm Bulletin deadline4:30 pm Mid-Week Hebrew at JCC
4:30 pm Mid-Week Hebrew at TBE7:30 pm Adult B’nei Mitzvah Class
9:00 am Religious School9:30 am Middah a Month9:30 am Adult Learning with Rachel Stern11:30 am Preschool Playtime
4:30 pm Mid-Week Hebrew at JCC
4:30 pm Mid-Week Hebrew at TBE7:30 pm Adult B’nei Mitvah Class
6:30 pm Library Shabbat Worship Service and Bar Mitzvah of Jeremy Schur8:00 pm @TBE20s30s After Hours
9:00 am Shabbat Torah Study10:30 am Shabbat Morning Worship and Bar Mitzvah of Jeremy Schur
SAFTY Sukkot Lock-in & Training for Conclaves
4:30 pm Mid-Week Hebrew at JCC7:00 pm Board Meeting
6:00 pm TBE 30s 40s
Columbus Day
NFTY-TOR Conclave at TBE
NFTY-TOR Conclave at TBE
Mission Statement of Congregation Beth-ElThe mission of Congregation Beth-El (also known as “Temple Beth-El”) is to
create a welcoming and vibrant house of God that inspires a community of Reform Jews committed to meaningful worship, spiritual growth, tikkun olam, and outreach within and beyond our Congregation.
211 Belknap PlaceSan Antonio, Texas 78212
210-733-9135
PERIODICAL
Address ServiceRequested
TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL
OfficersJoshua Sutin, President
David Adelman, Senior Vice PresidentJim Halff, Vice President
Gayle Alterman, Vice PresidentDebbie Roos, Vice President
Perry Wulfe, TreasurerRick Byrd, Secretary
AuxiliariesAndy Kabbe, Brotherhood PresidentCarole Kerman, Sisterhood President
Autumn Sparks, SAFTY President
RabbisMara S. Nathan, Senior Rabbi
Marina Yergin, Assistant Rabbi
Dr. Samuel M. Stahl, Emeritus
CantorJulie Berlin
Professional StaffRabbi Alan Berlin, Executive Director
Geri Gregory, Member Services CoordinatorIris Berman-Smith, Clergy & Cemetery Administrator
Sam Stern, Director of Youth EngagementMichael D. Kung, Facilities Manager
Michael Ringel, Controller
Join the Social Action Committee for a Social Advocacy Potluck Shabbat Dinner
October 9, immediately after Shabbat Eve Worship(approx. 7:45 pm)
A Panel Discussion will take place on HATE SPEECH and HATE CRIMES
…in preparation for the Social Advocacy sub-committee to
take a stand on behalf of Temple Beth-El on the matter. This discussion will balance the protection of the First
Amendment along with using judgment and empathy to refrain from use of language and symbols that encourage or incite contempt, discrimination or violence toward people based on race, ethnicity, culture or religion.
The Panel will consist of Anti-Defamation League
Chair-elect George Gibson from Houston and Saint Mary’s law professor Michael Ariens.
We will supply the entrée, and participants will bring sides
and desserts. Only $5 per person. RSVP at www.beth-elsa.org/SocialAdvocacyPotluck so we