Tzedek = Justice

Rabbi Akiva (second century CE) taught:

“‘Love your neighbor as your self.’ (Leviticus, 19) This is the most important rule in the Torah.”

Ben Azzai says: “‘This is the book of chronolo- gies … Human was created in the image of

God.’ (Genesis, 5) That is an even greater princi- ple so that one should not say, ‘Because I I¦TON T¦ZIYON have been humiliated, let my friend be humiliated with me, because I have been iuhm¦ iuTg¦ cursed, let my friend be cursed with me’.” The Newsletter of Jerusalem Talmud, Nedarim 30b Mount Zion Temple October 2012 Tishrei/Cheshvan 5773 Vol. 157, No. 2 We will make a difference. L’DOR VADOR FROM THE RABBI FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION The Rebbe of Mezritch had a room adjoining the bedchamber of his disci- MAZEL TOV TO... ples. Sometimes he would enter with a light in his hand, and look into Our members who will celebrate a milestone their sleeping faces. Once he bent down to the low bench on which a young anniversary in October: Jonathan and Irina Bren- man lay under a threadbare, three-cornered cover. He looked a long time, ner, Howard Simon and Kim Austrian, Aaron and and then thought: Miracle of Miracles, that so great a God lives in so frail Carol Mack, Steve and Gail Brand, Orrin and a dwelling. Janie Kirschbaum. Rabbi Akiva Taught: God showed a great love by creating us in the divine image, and Shelli and Michael Smith on the marriage of their an even greater love by letting us know it. On Yom Kippur we read from the Torah: “Be son Aaron Smith to Anna Claire Bennewitz on holy, for I, Adonai your God am holy.” September 2. Knowing that we are created in the Divine image means letting our individual sparks of holiness shine. And striving to be holy means seeing the sparks shining in others. ZICHRONAM LIVRACHA Of all God’s acts of creation, only humanity was created in the Divine image, and we alone are charged to be holy. Striving to be holy, then, means striving to be human. May their memories be a blessing Kindling sparks of holiness in others means respecting their humanity and enabling it We note with sorrow the passing of our members to shine. Abbey Kuller Recognizing the humanity of humans sounds obvious enough, but robbing others of Our condolences to her family. their humanity is surprisingly easy. It happens when we turn strangers into objects like WE EXTEND CONDOLENCES TO... vending machines or information systems by taking the cup of coffee from the server without a glance or a smile, or venting our anger at “the system” by yelling at the clerk Glenn Hardin (Allyson Perling) on the death of his father, Sam Hardin, on August 22. who hands us the bill. Paul (Lisa) Dorn on the death of his father, Charles It happens when we ignore the needs of our families because we’re just too busy, or tread Anthony "Bud" Dorn on September 17. on a colleague while climbing the ladder of success. It happens when we betray a trust, May God grant peace to all who mourn and steal an idea, or don’t really listen, when we turn others onto objects of our jealousy, or comfort to all who are bereaved. resentment, prejudices or stereotypes. Recognizing the humanity of others becomes even more difficult – and a matter of Tzedek – when the others are truly “other,” folks who in one way or another threaten our own sense of wellbeing: the street person begging on Snelling, the person dying of Mount Zion goes Wireless! cancer, or of Aids; the physically or mentally disabled; even the elderly, who really will be us one day (God willing). We certainly don’t intend to steal away anyone’s humanity — it just happens. But the simple act of paying attention, of remembering that EVERY human being shares a por- tion of divinity, can bring us back to that Holiness for which we are commanded to strive. In the coming year may we all live up to the divinity in us by appreciating the human- ity in us. Wi-fi is available throughout our beautiful facility. Esther Now you can use your electronic devices anywhere in Rabbi Esther Adler the building. Stop by the office or library to get the password! Iton Tziyon Cover: A Year of Tzedek Value of the Month: B’tzelem Elohim – We are all created in the image of God October Calendar Each month this year will feature a different value that is fundamental for creating an authentically Jewish worldview about justice. The first three months will be the most central. These values may be used to complement the personal life stories in an- swering the question: “What drives you to work for a better world?” : 1) Yitziat Mitzraim - We were redeemed from Egypt; we know what it is like to be the stranger. (September) 2) B’tzelem Elohim - We are all created in the image of God. (October) 3) Tikkun Olam - The world was created imperfectly; we partner with God to repair it. (November) All Worship Service times see page 3. Friday, October 26 Full Mount Zion calendar is available at During services we will study the value of the month and after services, we will have www.mzion.org. an opportunity to talk informally during the oneg. 2 MAKE SHABBAT YOUR SANCTUARY Tzedek Testimonial OCTOBER B’tzelem Elohim - We are all created in the image of God FRIDAY SHABBAT SATURDAY SHABBAT By Charlie Nauen EVENING SERVICES MORNING SERVICES Charlie Nauen, a member of Mount Zion’s Board of Directors, has led the Board’s efforts on the “Vote No” campaign on the mar- October 5, 6:30 p.m. October 6, 10:00 a.m. riage amendment. He is active in the wider Jewish com- Shir Tzion Participates Chol HaMoed Sukkot - Ex. 33:12-34:26* munity serving last year as Campaign Chair for the St. Paul Soul Food Friday, 7:30 p.m. (see p.8) Lee Froelich, Bar Mitzvah Federation of Greater St. Paul. Nauen is a well-respected environmental law attorney with Lockridge Grindal Nauen October 13, 10:00 a.m. P.L.L.P. in Minneapolis. He and his wife PJ Pofahl (who October 12, 7:30 p.m. Bereshit - Gen. 5:1-6:8* leads Mount Zion’s tzedek efforts with Neighborhood House) have two Professional Quartet Lukas Levin, Bar Mitzvah daughters in their 20s, Rachel and Hannah. Food for Thought (see p.6) This is a tale of two amendments. Both are on the Minnesota ballot October 19, 7:30 p.m. October 20, 10:00 a.m. in November. One attempts to limit marriage to one between a man Noah - Gen 11:1-11:32* and a woman. The other attempts to require a photo ID to have the Birthday Blessings Bess Swiler, Bat Mitzvah right to vote. Sacred Hebrew Chanting (see p. 5) October 27, 10:00 a.m. But the story for me goes back to growing up in Sioux Falls, South October 26, 7:30 p.m. Lech Lecha – Gen 16:1-17:27* Dakota. You see, my three sisters and I are first generation Ameri- cans— our father left Nazi Germany in 1939 and our mother left Torah Tones Participates Anthony Bogolub, Bar Mitzvah England in 1944. They married in 1949, and we were blessed with a Study of Value of Month: wonderful family life. B’tzelem Elohim My family was welcomed into the community. And our parents paid Schedule Every Shabbat Day it back—they were active in every organization-Jewish and non-Jew- 9:00 a.m. Open Torah Study - Drop in any time to ish—that helped people in need, minorities without resources, and study the week’s Torah portion (listed above). strangers to Sioux Falls. The High Holidays were filled with new- *Using a triennial [3 year] cycle, we are reading the comers to town, friends and family. third third of each parashah this year. Thus, my parents led by example. These “strangers in a strange land” 10:00 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service became the welcoming committee for Temple activities and commu- Daily Service Schedule nity organizations. Everyone was included; no one was turned away. Daily services are held in the Harris Chapel, Monday through Thursday at How does this relate to the two amendments? For the “anti-marriage” 5:45 p.m., Sundays at 9:30 a.m. amendment, I will tell you that the idea of inequality, exclusion, and lack of social justice contradicts the immigrant experience of my October parents. continued on p. 13. Mondays: Rita Grossman, Batya Spector, Shirley Kulevsky Tuesdays: John Mast, Sue Leonard, Stan Leonard Wednesdays: Betsy Rest, Phil Goldman, Berneen Rudolph Thursdays: Patrick Zimmerman, Maria Rubinstein, Steve Leikind, Jane Trosdahl Sundays: Sally Glick, Lindsay Nauen, Rita Grossman, Ray Sevett, Kurt If you have joined Mount Zion during 2011/12, please join us for the New Member Shabbat Dinner and Anne Schaeffer If you would like to participate in Leading or Greeting at our daily services, We’re glad you have become part of the Mount Zion family. Please join call Janet Kampf at (651) 482-9951 or Charles Fodor at (651) 646-6543. our clergy and congregational leaders for Shabbat dinner. We’ll get to know each other, share some great food, and build our community! Friday, October 26 Tot Shabbat 6:00 p.m. Dinner ($10 for adults, $5 for children. Please register on- Tot Shabbat is the second Saturday of every month. line at www.mzion.org. For families with children from birth to seven years old 7:30 p.m. Shabbat evening services, with special blessings Lech L’cha: Abraham the First Jew Reservations due by October 21. Contact Ellen Konstan at 651-698- Saturday, October 13 at 10:30 a.m. 5754 or [email protected]. Children’s activities are available during dinner;childcare is provided during services (for children 0 – 7 Please bring a healthy, nut-free years old). vegetarian dish to share. 3 SUKKOT/SIMCHAT TORAH FROM THE PRESIDENT

The gates are now closed. The High Holidays are now over. We all can now take a deep breath of the cool Fall air. Fall is one of my favorite seasons in Min- nesota. The changing of the leaves, football, and … the return of “Give to the Max” day! This day is the one day online fundraiser for Mount Zion Temple. Last year was the first time that Mount Zion participated in this state wide fundraising effort. As you all recall, we were very successful as 144 donors helped us raise over $49,000 dollars with $35,000 in new funds collected. We collected more money than any other Jewish non-profit th Wednesday, October 3, 4-7:30 p.m. organization and were rated 15 highest in Minnesota! This year Liz Sunday, October 7, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Kreilitz has agreed to chair this fundraising event. The date for Give to the Max day this year is: Donate food to food shelf; shake the lulav. Located in Mount Zion’s parking lot. Thursday, November 15, 2012 Please mark your calendars and plan to give generously on this day. Our goal this year is to collect 3 x Chai thousand or $54,000 in Sunday, Oct. 7, 9:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. new pledges to Mount Zion Temple. During Twin Cities’ Marathon Give water to runners; shake the lulav. GiveMN.org covers a substantial amount of the transaction costs asso- ciated with your credit card giving. This saves the Temple a tremen- dous amount of money. There are also incentives and bonuses that will be awarded to the non-profits raising the most money on this day. Mount Zion will also benefit greatly if we all pay our dues on this day to the GiveMN.org website. Liz will be communicating with you all Monday, October 1, 10 a.m. over the next month to give specifics about our fundraising efforts on And anytime you wish! November 15. Till then enjoy the wonderful change of seasons that Perwien / ZaiKaner Terrace Minnesota offers. Robert O. Mast, President

Sunday, Oct. 7, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Open House hosted by Mount Zion’s Board of Directors & President Bob Mast Back by Popular Demand! Perwien / ZaiKaner Terrace CelebrateCelebrate SimchatSimchat TorahTorah The Un-Gala 2012 Shmini Atzeret/Simchat Torah Due to the overwhelming success of our first Un-Gala we would like to invite you to Sunday, October 7, 6:00 p.m. participate in this years 24 hour online event. Last Festive Service & Consecration year we ranked 15th of all participating non-profits Join us as we renew our Torah cycle, reading the end of the Torah and and first of all Jewish organizations! then the beginning with the entire Let's come together on scroll unrolled around the Sanctu- ary. Dance with the Torah scrolls to Thursday, November 15 the infectious rhythm of Mark Still- man and his Klezmer band! and see what our amazing community can During this service, we will also welcome our newest students into accomplish this year! Look for new ways to make the world of Jewish learning! this a meaningful and special day for you in Monday, October 8, 10:00 a.m. upcoming Un-Gala messages to follow! Festival Service & Yizkor Prayers All morning services will join for a festive hakafah (dancing with the 4 CHAI NOTES

This October, my husband Nick and I will celebrate nine years of marriage. Our wedding took place on a beautiful fall Sacred Hebrew Chanting day in Baltimore, the sun filtering through our chuppah. I Back by popular demand! still remember how it felt to walk down the aisle, my parents Friday, October 19, 6:30 p.m. in the Harris Chapel on either side of me, and see my friends and family smiling (before our 7:30 p.m. service) at me as Nick and I professed our love for each other and our devotion to Led by Ashira Sheila Katz (who grew up at Mount Zion) each other as life partners. All are welcome! And yet, as meaningful as it was to declare our commitment to each other No knowledge or experience with Hebrew needed. in front of our loved ones, none of it—save one small document—meant a Transliteration and translation will be provided for all chants. single thing in the eyes of the state. No, what made us legally married was our rabbi’s signing of our Maryland marriage license, done almost offhand- edly in the moments before our ceremony. Since then, we’ve enjoyed tax Through the repetitive chanting of simple benefits, family health insurance and medical leave, automatic legal rela- biblical Hebrew verses from psalms or other tionships with our children, and the security of knowing that our marital sta- sections of prayer liturgy, this powerful tus will not change when we visit our families in Wisconsin and Delaware. spiritual practice and experience is open and Someday we will benefit from each other’s Social Security, retirement plans, accessible to all. and inheritance rights. All this because we, as a heterosexual couple, have been allowed to enter into the state-created institution of civil marriage. Ashira Sheila is co-founder and Executive Director of I tell you this to point out what all too often has been unclear in this argu- Beit Ayin, a national non-profit organization that ment about marriage. I have heard the slogans “love makes a marriage,” “the brings Jewish Spiritual practice to people through sacred government cannot legislate love,” and “love + commitment = marriage.” I chanting, meditation, storytelling and movement. don’t disagree—love should be a crucial ingredient in a marriage—but it is emphatically not what qualifies a couple for the rights that the government grants to married couples. What qualified us for these rights, at least in Mary- Having a Simcha? land, was that we were over 18, a man and a woman, and not too closely re- lated. We were not asked anything about our emotional stability, our love for each other, our commitment to be faithful to one other, or whether we were able to and intended to bear and raise children. All these are often addressed by the institution of religious marriage, but few states, if any, consider these qualifications for civil marriage. By Hand & Heart can help you celebrate with original hand crafted And this issue of the marriage amendment is solely about the right to enter invitations. into civil marriage. Civil marriage is the gateway to well over 1100 federal • Meet with calligrapher, Carol Zuckman, and By Hand & Heart rights and responsibilities, most of which cannot be obtained by any other members to design a unique invitation for your Bar or Bat Mitz- means. Exclusion from marriage unfairly punishes same-sex couples and vah. their families by depriving them of critical assistance and security, often at • Participate with By Hand & Heart members to paint, stencil and times of crisis—death, sickness, joblessness—situations in which the bene- assemble your one-of-a-kind invitation. fits of civil marriage provide a measure of security to married couples, but which can be utterly devastating to those couples who cannot get married Please contact us 8-12 months before your simcha. For more and their families. information, contact: Carol Zuckman or 651-255-4746. Anyone who wants to and is part of a supportive community—same-sex and heterosexual couples alike—already has the right to stand up and pro- Trope Troupe fess their love and commitment to one another. Reform Judaism and other ... the more Torah, the more life. -Hillel religious movements recognize the validity of same-sex religious marriage ceremonies; some other religious groups do not. But the discomfort with Todah Rabah to our September Ba’alei Korei and prohibitions against same-sex relationships within some religious groups (chanting Torah): Maria Rubinstein, Shelley Robbins, Sue cannot be the very source of discrimination that determines which relation- Levey, Stuart Appelbaum, Isaac Ash, Jonathan Eisenthal, Ben ships are recognized by the government and subsequently to whom it will Fink, Renae Goldman, David Gutherz, Zoe Klass-Warch, and won’t grant the rights and responsibilities of civil marriage. As Repre- Ruben Lotz, Sue Lund, Betsy Rest, Abe Rybeck, Kent Simon, sentative Barney Frank said in 1996, “let us be like anyone else…no one is Batya Spector, Mirit Spilker asking you to do anything else, and if it bothers people, turn your head, but Todah Rabah to our September Ba’alei Haftarah don’t inflict legal disabilities that carry out that feeling.” As we enter the new (chanting Haftarah): David Epstein, Eric Lund, Connor year of 5773 and the 2012 election season, I urge all of us to vote no, re- Mann, Sophia Paley, Brian Serle membering Hillel’s version of the Golden Rule: “That which is hateful to To sign up to chant Torah or Haftarah on Shabbat, you, do not do to your neighbor. The rest is commentary; go and learn it.” e-mail Cantor Jennifer Strauss-Klein at [email protected] Jennifer Strauss-Klein, Cantor 5 Food for Thought 5:45-7:00 p.m. Learn and Nosh before Shabbat Services Discussion over wine, juice, and light appetizers. Child care available. Friday, October 12 Inside the Campaign to Vote No on the Marriage Amendment Richard Carlbom is the Campaign Manager of Minnesotans United for All Families, the official campaign that will defeat the con- stitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage. Before joining the campaign in September, Richard was Communications Di- rector for Chris Coleman, the mayor of St. Paul. He also managed the successful 2010 re-election campaign of Representative Tim Walz. A 2004 graduate of Saint John’s, Carlbom served as the mayor of St. Joseph, Minnesota from 2005-2007.

Friday, November 16 Two options: Estate Planning – What You Need to Know Following the Footsteps of Little Crow Steve Brand, Mount Zion Temple Past President Curt Brown is an author and staff writer for the and partner in the law firm of Robins, Kaplan, Minneapolis Star Tribune. Curt recently com- Miller & Ciresi, has been named in every edition of pleted a year long study of the U.S. Dakota war The Best Lawyers in America. He was recognized as and wrote a historical narrative of that awful time a “Super Lawyer” by Minnesota Law & Politics, period as told through the story of conducted an estate planning workshop at the Little Crow, a Dakota chief who led Women of Reform Judaism’s Biennial Assembly held in Minneapo- the 1862 rebellion. The work was published as a six lis in 2003, was awarded the Susie Selcer Community part series in the Star Tribune and is available as a ebook Leadership Award in 2003 in recognition of his work "In the footsteps of Little Crow", now on the New York with the Sholom Community Alliance and is a frequent Times best-seller list. lecturer for Continuing Legal Education programs on probate, estate planning and fiduciary income taxation.

Mount Zion’s Nominating Committee for INTERFAITH CONNECTIONS The Board of Directors Family Circle The Nominating Committee “The Nominating meets in late January to prepare a The JCC of St. Paul will be offering the Family Circle class again slate of Officers and Directors for Committee... beginning in November. The last session of the class will be on winter a congregational vote at the An- should be holidays and how to balance the issues around the holidays. Contact nual Meeting in May. At the representative of the Tracey Agranoff coordinator at JCC at 698-0751 for further October Board of Directors meet- entire congregation... information. ing, 10 congregants are selected to If you would like to be on the Committee. The Presi- Grandparents Circle Course A free, five-week program at Mount Zion dent then selects an additional 10 be a part of this people. (10 more are selected by important process...” Mondays, November 5-December 3, the previous year’s Committee for a total of 30 participants.) The Committee should be representative 6:00-7:30 p.m. of the entire congregation, so that we can put together a Board that Professionally facilitated by represents everyone. The Board sets the priorities and direction for Marjorie Sigel, MSW, LICSW, Jewish Family Services Mount Zion. If you would like to be a part of this important process, See insert for more details. please contact either President Bob Mast ([email protected]) or Maureen Davidson, Interfaith Outreach, [email protected]. Convener Ellen Konstan ([email protected]). 6 ISRAEL MATTERS Highland Park’s Francis Food Basket is Open Again! Announcing the Mount Zion Israel Bonds Match Highland Park’s Francis Food Basket last year provided 61,000 pounds of food to 1,900 households. Unfortunately, it had to close its doors Want to learn more about why Israel Bonds earlier this summer but Neighborhood House and funding partners are a smart investment and about the good you can do? were able to re-open its doors on August 10! Here is how you can help: Please note new date: Sunday, October 14, 10:00 a.m. Volunteer on Tuesdays & Fridays. Please contact Riley Karbon at Please join us for an Israel Bonds Information Breakfast [email protected] or call 651-789-2500. We are pleased to announce the Mount Zion Israel Bonds Match Bring fresh produce that is no longer available to be donated via the program. Thanks to an anonymous donor, we are able to offer an St. Paul Farmer’s Market. Please consider delivering fresh produce to exciting opportunity to buy Israel Bonds and do something extra either Neighborhood House at the Wellstone Center on 179 Robie special for Israel at the same time. When you purchase Israel bonds Street E or the Francis Food Basket at Sibley Manor on 1293 Maynard between now and May 6, 2013 an anonymous donor will match your Dr E. Please ask for a receipt to turn in to the Mount Zion office. contribution by purchasing bonds for his or her self of an equal amount. That means you make a good investment for yourself and you Drop off nonperishable food donations at the Mount Zion Mitzvah double the amount that goes to Israel. As you know, Israel Bonds help Food Shelf bin by the front doors, and/or fuel Israel’s economy and support many important causes there. Drop off a check or donate online at www.mzion.org Please plan on attending the Israel Bonds Breakfast on October 14 to Thank you for helping your neighbors! learn about investing in Israel Bonds and what they mean for Israel, and/or buy Israel Bonds through our match program! RSVP to Israel Committee Co-chairs, Jerry Kobrin at [email protected] or Julie Swiler at [email protected] IN THE COMMUNITY Sponsored by the Mount Zion Israel Committee An Israel Book Discussion Revel with a Cause! Thursday, October 4, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Join Charles Fodor and members of Mount Zion’s Is- Neighborhood House, 179 Robie Street East in St Paul. rael committee for an engaging conversation about All Mount Zion members are invited to Israeli life through its literature. When we meet in "Make a World of Difference" by com- November, we will discuss other titles and format for ing to Neighborhood House's annual future gatherings. Even if you cannot read the book fundraiser "Revel With a Cause". Expe- in advance, you are welcome. Questions: Contact rience food, drink, music, and auction Charles Fodor at [email protected]. items from all over the world, reflecting the culture of the refugee, immigrant, First Book and Date: and other populations served by Neigh- My Russian Grandmother and Her American borhood House. Buy tickets now online Vacuum Cleaner: A Family Memoir at neighb.org We hope to see many By Meir Shalev Mount Zion members there to support this multi-cultural social service agency started by Mount Zion over Monday, November 5, 7 p.m. 100 years ago! Email any questions to Mount Zion's Liaison to Neigh- Meet in the Mount Zion Library borhood House P.J. Pofahl ([email protected]) or Mount Zion member and Neighborhood House Board Chair Eric Levinson MZ Israel Trip: ([email protected]). What we learned, you should know Friday, October 12 Looking for a 7th Grade Mitzvah Project? An oneg discussion with the trip participants after services Like to make people smile? There were many insights Consider Training to Become a Mitzvah Clown! gained by the sixteen people First site visit: Sunday, October 7, 12:30 – 3:00 p.m. traveling with Rabbi Spilker Additional site visits planned (same time): this summer to Israel. Every- November 18, December 9, February 3, April 14, and June 2 thing from a conversation with Rabbi Miri Gold, the As mitzvah clowns, we will role play, learn how to make balloon ani- first non-orthodox rabbi to mals, apply clown makeup, get dressed in clown clothes, and bring joy be recognized by Israel to a zip-line in the West Bank. The pilgrimage to those who need some! This is great for both adults and kids (Grade covered many topographies, cultures, and histories. We invite you to 5 and up!), Teens, Families and especially 7th graders! RSVP BY Oc- hear some adventurous stories, ask questions, and imagine yourself in tober 1st: Please contact Sue Lund at [email protected] or 952- the land of Israel. 217-0594. The site visits are to Sholom Home West. 7 BROTHERHOOD PRIME TIMERS

Shalom Friends, For members 55 and older. Bagel Sales and Wi-Fi Café in Lipschultz Lounge: The Brotherhood will be selling flavored coffee (K-Cups), hot chocolate, and bagels (with Save the date for the next event: cream cheese and lox) before Sunday school this year in Lipschultz Chanukah Potluck Lunch and Party lounge. Everyone is invited to make use of the Wi-Fi in the lounge, eat Monday, December 10, 12:00 p.m. bagels, and drink our coffee. Sales will be from about 8:45 until about 10:30. Please e-mail Arnie Krohn ([email protected]) to volunteer to help. Any profits are returned to the Temple to support camp schol- CARING COMMUNITY arships, the rabbi’s fund, the Purim Carnival, and the Mother’s Day Brunch. Brotherhood membership forms were mailed in early July. Thanks Mount Zion Cares! again to all Temple members who’ve already sent in their annual dues The Caring Community Program is here to help Mount Zion Tem- payment which ensures this year’s programming and Tzedekah. If you ple members in their moments of need. We reach out to you with a haven’t sent in your payment, please bring (or mail) the check to the helping hand when there is injury, illness, grief or other life stressors. Temple. We provide meals, rides,visitors, and shiva support. Brotherhood Meeting: Our next monthly business meeting, to which To get help contact the program at [email protected] all Mount Zion gentlemen are all invited, will be Tuesday Oct 2nd. or call 651-698-3881 Contact Richard ([email protected]) if you will join us for light dinner (pizza and other delights) along with discussion. Richard Newmark NOAZIM - 20S/30S GROUP President, Mount Zion Brotherhood Making Judaism relevant to 20- & 30- somethings at Mount Zion! For more information on upcoming events, to get involved, or to simply get on our mailing list, email [email protected] or find our group on Facebook! Jews Who Dunk? Who knew? “My life as an Israeli Basketball Player” Soul Food Friday An interactive discussion with Ron Garber Come for the food, stay and feed your soul! Sunday, October 7, 10-11:30 a.m. First Friday of every month. No charge. October 5 Includes a complimentary continental breakfast. Shabbat Dinner* @ 7:30 Sponsored by Brotherhood Kabbalat Shabbat Service @ 8:15 p.m. Ron Garber is currently an attorney at a Connect with new people at this friendly and inviting service! Singles, local Minneapolis firm. Before becoming couples, partners, ALL are welcome! *For dinner, RSVP to a lawyer, Ron played professional bas- [email protected] ($5). ketball as a forward with the Maccabi B’nei Ashdod team in Israel (following a Havdalah in Cantor Strauss-Klein’s Sukkah college career at Michigan). Saturday, October 6, 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. Join NOAZIM at this informal Havdalah service and snacks. For details, e-mail Cantor Strauss-Klein at [email protected]. This session is in anticipation of attending: Timberwolves Vs. the Haifa Israeli Basketball team Tuesday, October 16, 7:00 p.m. at the Target Center RSVP required, $10/ticket to Mount Zion Brotherhood by October 8. Car-pooling options will be available. Please RSVP interest in either or both events to Richard Newmark at (651) 340-3487 (phone) or ([email protected]). Everyone is invited to these events - you do not need to be a Brotherhood or Temple member.Come find out why those “no dunking” signs might have ever been posted on a JCC basketball court! 8 B’NEI MITZVAH SISTERHOOD

Bess Swiler Women of Reform Judaism Area Day October 20, 2012 Update on Current Jewish Life in the Baltics Wednesday, October 10 at Temple Israel Bess is the daughter of Becca Swiler and the grand- Social Hour: 6:30 p.m., Program: 7:30 p.m. daughter of Richard and Jill Swiler. She is in the Marjorie Ostrov just returned from a visit to Jewish communities in 7th grade at Friendly Hills Middle School in Men- Kiev, Ukraine and Vilna, Lithuania. She will share her impressions with dota Heights. Her favorite subjects in school are us. Open to all Sisterhood members and other interested guests. $15 Science, Art, Physical Education and Language Arts. Bess also en- cost for heavy appetizers and beverages. RSVP to Peggy Kipp at joys rock climbing, horseback riding, art and design, reading, and [email protected] by October 5. spending time with family and friends as well as Joie (her dog) and Lily (her cat). In the future, Bess would like to work as an engineer Cooking Pizza Class or architect. In honor of her Bat Mitzvah, Bess will be donating a por- Sunday, October 14, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. in the Mount Zion Kitchen tion of her gift money to the Lake Superior Zoo as it works to recover Join us as John Riederer shows us how to make great pizza! from recent flooding, and to Project Baby Bottoms, an organization that collects and distributes diapers and diaper wipes to families in Initial Meeting of the Mount Zion Hennepin and Ramsey Counties. Women’s Professional Business Networking Group Monday, October 15, 7-9 pm at Temple Israel Mount Zion Sisterhood is beginning a women’s professional business networking group and our first meeting will be combined with Tem- ple Israel and Bet Shalom. Marketing whiz Sam Richter will be offer- Lukas Levin ing practical ideas in developing your own brand identity. Bring your October 13, 2012 business cards to exchange! Coffee and desserts will be served. Free to all Mount Zion Sisterhood members with a $10 charge to non-mem- Lukas Levin is the son of Stacey Dinner-Levin and bers. Call Gail Gendler at 651-210-1699 with questions. Michael Paul Levin. He is the grandson of Mervyn Levin of Del Ray Beach, FL, and the late Doris Pampered Chef Levin, Delores Dinner, and Bernie Dinner. Luke is Sunday, November 4, 10 am-12 p.m. at Mount Zion the brother of Geordy, Ryan, and Spencer Levin. Lukas is a 7th grader It’s Pampered Chef time! Come check out the latest in cooking pans at Folwell Fine Arts in Minneapolis. His favorite subjects are Math, and utensils, baking dishes, recipes and seasonings. You can order gifts History, Science. Luke has participated in Chess Club and served on that will be here in time for the holidays! the student council and is an honor roll student. Lukas enjoys the- ater, reading, and dancing. Lukas would like to be an attorney some- Red Cross Blood Drive day. Lukas would like to someday travel the world. Lukas has learned Wednesday, November 7, Margolis Hall at Mount Zion Temple through having a Bar Mitzvah the value of hard work and the impor- Donating blood is a mitzvah! Please contact Terri Stander at 651-293- tance of Judaism. Lukas plans to donate some of his Bar Mitzvah 1776 or [email protected] to volunteer and to set up an appointment money to Partnership Resources Inc. because they serve his brother to donate. who has autism and other individuals with special needs. Have you renewed your Sisterhood membership? Please send your 2012-2013 membership of $40 to Susan Levey 4826 Steeplechase Circle, Eagan, MN 55122, or you can pay in cash or by credit card at the Mount Zion Gift Shop. Larger donations are happily accepted and are used for programming in Sisterhood and within Tony Bogolub Mount Zion Temple, and to help our sisters in need. October 27, 2012 MIRIAM’S WELL Tony is the son of Cathy and Larry Bogolub and brother of Louie Bogolub. He is the grandson of Sisterhood’s Judaica Shop News Lillian and William Bogolub and Rosemary and Attention all Bar and Bat Mitzvah families - check out the Darrel Johnson. Tony is a 7th grader at the Friends supply of tallit and kipot. If you don’t see something you like, there School of Minnesota. He is a history buff with a fascination in World are catalogues in the Judaica Shop for you to look at. War II and the mafia. He loves playing football, basketball, and is Don’t forget, if you need a Bar or Bat Mitzvah gift and don’t know looking forward to starting Trap Shooting next spring. He attends what to buy, a Gift Certificate from the Judaica Shop is an easy answer! Camp Nebagamon summer camp where is especially enjoys sailing, ri- We will be setting up the Chanukah Market on November 11. If flery, wall-climbing, hiking, and canoeing. Tony volunteers at you can help, please let Sheri or Ruth know. We need a lot of people Northrup Urban Environmental Learning Center where he enjoys to make the Market the huge success that it was last year. working with kindergartners. Tony is very appreciative of all the sup- port he has received in preparation to become a Bar Mitzvah. Please contact Sheri at 651-270-3352, Ruth at 651-278-9596 or e- mail at [email protected] to volunteer. Help is needed to staff the Judaica Shop on Friday evenings before services for ½ hour. 9 RELIGIOUS SCHOOL NEWS

We look forward to another amazing year in the Yom Rishon – The First Day of School Religious School with you and your family! If you have We are off to a spectacular start! The school year began with a hustle any questions, comments, suggestions or kudos, please and bustle around the building as students arrived for the first day of feel free to call or email Dana Prottas, Lower School classes. Over 200 students (grades Prek-12th Grade) filled the build- and Hebrew School Director, at [email protected] ing. We began our morning together in the sanctuary with a back-to- or 651-698-3881. school service. Then, our students in grades PreK-6 studied with their Upcoming Events – Mark Your Calendars teachers while our more than forty teens worked as Madrichim and Ad- vocates around the building. In addition to our students, there were October 1-7 Sukkot several parent meetings around the building, including the New Fam- October 7 Simchat Torah & Consecration (see below) ily Orientation, and a Sixth Grade Volunteer Committee Meeting. We October 17-21 No School – MEA Weekend had a busy day! It feels wonderful to welcome you and your family back into our hallways at Mount Zion. If you have any questions, com- ments, or kudos, please contact Dana Prottas, Lower School and He- Simchat Torah and Consecration brew School Director, at [email protected]. Sunday, October 7 4:30 p.m. - Group Photo 5:00 p.m. - Festive Dinner 6:00 p.m. - Service (see page 4) It is customary for students beginning their Jewish education to participate in a consecration ceremony in Kindergarten, during which time they are called to the Bima for a very special moment with their families and our clergy. During this ceremony we celebrate the eternal gift of Torah to the Jewish people. Consecration this year will be cele- brated in conjunction with our Simchat Torah festivities. Please make reservations for the dinner at mzion.nirsham.com.

Join the clergy for…CLERGY CHAT! Above: Yom Rishon - Opening Ceremony New this year! Join together with other parents/guardians to chat with the clergy. You will have the opportunity to “Ask the Rabbi” any Right: PreK student enjoying the questions about the school, Judaism or Mount Zion. You will also learn first day of school! more about the school and how it fits into the synagogue. Take ad- vantage of this unique program specifically designed with YOU in mind! Barista-quality coffee will be served! Fourth Grade – Sunday, October 14, 9:30 a.m. Fifth Grade – Sunday, October 14, 11:00 a.m. Second Grade – Sunday, October 28, 9:30 a.m. Mount Zion Goes Digital! Sixth Grade – Sunday, October 28, 11:00 a.m. The Mitkadem Hebrew program launched its online digital component. The full content of Join our Facebook Group! Ramot (packets) 3-13 is available in an interac- tive online format. Students can use both the Friend the Mount Zion Religious School on Facebook to receive computer program and paper packets seam- quick updates and reminders about upcoming school programming, lessly. Full prayer texts, vocabulary and record- holidays and school closings. ings are all integrated and available from any page at any time. There are also different kinds of activities for dif- ferent types of learners. The fun, user-friendly interface appeals to New Sunday Tefillah Prayer Service! students, parents and teachers alike. Student progress is also tracked automatically. Students receive instant feedback and see instant re- All students in grades PreK-6 (including Madrichim) will attend a serv- sults. Teachers can track progress with the online management sys- ice on Sunday mornings to compliment and enhance our students’ tem. learning of their prayers in an authentic environment. Students will have the opportunity to lead parts of the service and to learn from pray- This year we will introduce Mitkadem Digital into our classrooms. er role models. Our service is usually from 10:35-11:00 a.m. Sunday We decided to purchase the on-line component for all of students mornings, unless there is a special event or program. Families are always who are working in Ramot (packets) 3-13. Shortly we will send you welcome to participate. Feel free to drop on by and join us! information about how to log into Mitkadem Digital.

10 TEEN AND YOUTH ACTIVITIES Noar Tzion This Year’s 9th-12th NFTY NO Calendar (4-6th Grade Youth Group) Fall Kallah – October 5-7 in Minnetonka Corn Maze! Winter Kallah – December 21-23 at OSRUI Sunday, October 7, 12:15 - 3:30 p.m. JYG (7th/8th Gr) Weekend – March 1-3 at OSRUI Contact Mike Kahn, [email protected] with any questions. Sign up: mzion.nirsham.com. Spring Kallah – April 4-7 at Mount Zion

JYG SPORTY News and Events (7-8th Grade Youth Group) Walk for Pediatric Cancer Research Car Wash! Sunday, October 28, 12:15 - 3:30 p.m. Todah Rabah for all who participated in SPORTY’s car wash! Contact Mike Kahn, [email protected] SPORTY Board Meetings with any questions. Sign up at mzion.nirsham.com. All Meetings are Wed. from 7:15-8:30 p.m. October 3, 10, 24, 31 and November 7 Chai School (7th-12th Grade) SPORTY Thai, Tie, Tye Saturday, October 27 7th Graders Watch Facebook for more details! Mitzvah Trip: Mind our Mitzvot Sunday, October 14, 12:15 - 3:30 p.m. Meet at Mount Zion Meet our New Youth Group Advisor 8/9th Graders Mike Kann is our new Youth Group Advisor this Torah Trekkin’ Shabbaton year. Mike is a graduate of Northern Michigan Uni- Friday Oct. 12 - Sunday Oct. 14 versity (yes, the town of Marquette, MI gets more Sign up at mzion.nirsham.com snow than the Twin Cities, crazy!). Mike will be re- sponsible for Noar Tzion, our 4th-6th grade youth Tri I Classes group, JYG, our 7th-8th grade youth group, and Food for Thought Taught by Alissa Abelson SPORTY, our 9th-12th grade youth group. When He Said What?! Taught by Matthew Clark not at Mount Zion, Mike is the Engagement Associ- If Not Now, When? Taught by Kate Cavett ate at Hillel at the University of Minnesota. He is an avid Chicago Painting the Face of Reform Judaism Taught by Eli Zimmerman sports fan (But confesses he will cheer for the Twins), eats way too much pasta and is has fun exploring the Twin Cities. Please stop by the youth 10th Graders lounge on a Wednesday, say hi, and introduce yourself! You can get in Confirmation Retreat touch with Mike by emailing [email protected]. Friday, October 5 - Sunday, October, 7 A community-building retreat at OSRUI. 11th/12th Graders New York Movie Night – Crossing Delancey Mon., Oct. 15, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Wear a new hat and revel in our old-world grandmother’s story about a nice Jewish boy-next-door who sells pick- les near Delancey Street. 3 Chai School Credits

SPORTYites enjoy some bowling at the first event of the year! 4th-6th graders enjoy (and participate) in a fun magic show at Noar Tzion’s kickoff event!

11 THANK YOU...FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS

MILTON FIRESTONE Donations: RABBIS’ Sandra Levander YAHRZEIT FUND DISCRETIONARY FUND ART FUND Raline Paper In Yahrzeit Memory of: In Yahrzeit Memory of: In Honor of the Birthday of: MOUNT ZION Sidney Abramson Alex Hochman Roger Greenberg CEMETERY The Family of Sidney Lee Hochman Herman Birnberg MAINTENANCE & Abramson Otto Lampert FUND FOR MOUNT PERPETUAL CARE Dr. Bernardo Akerman Rose Lampert ZION FUND Roberto Akerman Lolly & Don Hochman Lys Akerman Mark Louis Pearlson In Memory of: In Yahrzeit Memory of: David Burgess Dr. W. H. Pearlson Sam Hardin Dorothy Eisenreich Bill & Gloria Levin Rabbi Gunther Plaut Abbey Kuller Kenny & Angie Canter Maurice Birnberg Sharidawn Pearlson Mary Ann & David Wark Anthony Finberg Robert Launer Gertrude Weiss JIM & NANCY HARRIS Joan Shapiro Josephine Blooston Barbara & Honnen Weiss LEADERSHIP Rose Fox Barbara Sarbach In Memory of: ENDOWMENT FUND Jane, Anna & Sarah Fox Eva Brooks Aimee Goldstein Joseph Perlman Raphael Brooks In Honor of the Bat Mitzvah of: Shane & Mavis Goldstein Mildred Perlman Mrs. Marjorie B. Edwards Joanna Gold Sam Hardin Jerry Sansby Peter Dworsky Bill & Gloria Levin Glenn Hardin Donation: Roger & Myra Greenberg Phyllis Simon JULIE LAZOR Brian & Judith Krasnow Dorothy Eisenreich Howard Simon CONFIRMATION FUND PARENT & TOT FUND Kenny & Angie Canter In Honor of the Naming of: Robert Finck For a Speedy Recovery of: In Honor of the Birthday of: Gabriel Lerew Mirriam Thell Mark Ettinger Sue Lund Yvonne Lerew Marice Halper In Appreciation of: Patti & Mert Horn Ellen & Martin Sampson Toba & Mort Lazor Bob Rubenstein Rabbi Esther Adler SHIR TZION David A. Herring David Epstein Gloria & Marty Livingston CHILDRENS CHOIR Sheila & Martin Schuman Elaine Herring Donation: FUND Benjamin Levin Phil & Renae Goldman In Yahrzeit Memory of: Freda Gang In Support of Cantor Spilker: Judi, Todd & Isaac Marshall CANTORS’ Toba & Mort Lazor Jessica & Neil Segal Florence Levin DISCRETIONARY FUND Howard Schuman Stephen, Rita & Elena Levin SPECIAL NEEDS George Lloyd Levin In Memory of: Sheila & Martin Schuman BUILDING In Memory of: Bill & Gloria Levin Sam Hardin ACCESSIBILITY FUND Lester Oberman Glenn Hardin Abbey Kuller Toba & Mort Lazor In Honor of the Anniversary of: Ruth Oberman Aimee Goldstein Jeff Oberman & Shane & Mavis Goldstein MITZVAH FOODSHELF Sue & Stan Leonard Barbara Winthrop & Family Kathy Conner In Support of Cantor Spilker: FUND Joseph Perlman Bill & Gloria Levin In Honor of the Birthday of: In Yahrzeit Memory of: Rhoda Mains Mildred Perlman Leslie Martin & Fred Haeusler Jerry Sansby John Mast William Bunin Barbara Winthrop & Family Beverly Bunin-Gillman Arthur Rock Edie Smith TORAH STUDY/LARRY Sue Grupe Scott Bunin KULLER FUND BLOOM LIBRARY FUND Yehuda Frankel and His Family Jerry Segal Neil & Jessica Segal In Yahrzeit Memory of: Alexandra Oppenheimer In Memory of: Nathan Shapira Edna H. Paskins Anne Beers Sampson Abbey Kuller Roger & Myra Greenberg Jerrold H. Paskins Martin & Ellen Sampson Herman Birnberg Terry Tilsen Sally & Mitch Rubinstein In Memory of: Emmy Lou Jacobson Dr. Hirschel A. Martin Ruth King-Smith David Tilsen ELSA BRONSTIEN Leslie Martin & Fred Haeusler Connie & Paul Ross Steve Tilsen MEMORIAL FUND Mitch Wittenberg & Sheila & Martin Schuman Philip Weissman Anne Starr In Yahrzeit Memory of: Jaine Strauss Walter Schwarz Edward L. Bronstien, Sr. In Honor of the Birthday of: Scott & Sheri Yarosh Edward L. Bronstien, Jr. Elliot Karasov ZAIKANER - PERWIEN Henry & Janice Snyder TERRACE FUND BROTHERHOOD FUND In Honor of the Bar Mitzvah of: In Yahrzeit Memory of: Sam Levey In Yahrzeit Memory of: Mickey Brown Eileen Kopman Arvin B. ZaiKaner Curt Brown Wishing a Happy New Year to: Avalon, Elliot & Amy The Adler Family Zaikaner Levey CARING COMMUNITY In Honor of the Marriage of: FUND Julia Bossinger Lydia & Peter Koch Anna Claire Bennewitz & In Memory of: Cori & Gena Levin & Family Aaron Smith Abbey Kuller Adam Ross The ZaiKaner Family Elaine Cohen Francie & Barry Ross Barbara & Burton Dunevitz Jeff & Max Ross Joe & Carrie Kahn Kim & Mike Ross The Launer Family Tudie Ross & Family Chernie Levinson The Skora Family Don and Rhoda Mains The Solomon Family Bernice Rosten The Spilker Family Ilona & Bob Rouda Debbie & Kevin Staska The Strauss-Klein Family Connie & Paul Ross

12 SOCIAL ACTION UPDATE Tzedek = Justice On August 14 and 22, Mount Zion Temple hosted a group of volunteers who, after a brief training, began calling Mount Zion congregants to inform each of you about the board’s position regarding Tzedek Testimonial the marriage amendment ballot initiative and to listen to your feedback B’tzelem Elohim - We are all created in the image of God regarding the initiative. In the two nights, we were able to reach 191 By Charlie Nauen homes. Many of you – 67 total – pledged to Vote No on the Continued from p. 3 amendment in November, while another 13 responded to our call for I attended the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte this volunteers to support the congregation’s tzedek efforts in the months month. It was an inspirational experience, especially standing with to come. Thanks to all of you who took the time to speak with one of the Minnesota delegation wearing our VOTE NO t-shirts. The the callers. If anyone has questions about the marriage amendment Democratic platform supports gay marriage. Equality. Reflecting re- contact Adele Brown at 651-632-2184. ality, over 10% of the delegates were LGBT. Equality. The Minnesota delegation, with joy and pride, was the focus of much national at- Jewish Community Action joins tention because of the battle against the “anti-marriage” amendment. Vote No on the Photo ID Amendment on November 6 It would be a step backwards for our state and our country if this by Adele Brown amendment passes. Equality. Jewish Community Action organizer and liaison to Mount Zion Let me say something about the voter ID amendment. If it passes, This November, every Minnesotan will be asked to vote on important 215,000 Minnesotans will no longer be able to vote under the new re- proposed changes to our state’s constitution: the “Photo ID amendment” strictions. Why? Who are they? Elderly citizens—who have voted for and the “marriage amendment”. JCA along with Mount Zion Temple has decades—but have no photo ID. Students, immigrants, the poor been organizing our community to VOTE NO on the “marriage amend- who either do not have IDs or do not have current addresses on their ment” and now that the “photo ID amendment” has been added to the IDs. What is being proposed in Minnesota, like the wave of voting ballot Jewish Community Action has joined the coalition to defeat the restrictions being legislated nationwide, threatens voting rights that “photo ID amendment” as well. people fought and died for just a few short years ago. Voters will be asked the following question in November: For me, though, it’s personal. My father Hans Nauen became a nat- “Shall the Minnesota Constitution be amended to require all vot- uralized American citizen at his very first opportunity. He was proudly ers to present valid photo identification to vote and to require the patriotic. He would vote in every single election, trying to get to his state to provide free identification to eligible voters, effective July precinct as early as possible. BUT, he had no photo ID. He was the 1, 2013?” Yes___ No____ world’s worst driver—just didn’t like it—and therefore had no license. Photo ID is a drastic change to the election system and it is full of As Jews, a religious minority, we must never take anything for granted harmful consequences and barriers to our democratic process: (a lot and we must always stand up for those whose rights are threatened— of questions still remain unanswered) the elderly, the poor, minorities, immigrants, sexual minorities. Equal- A voter in a polling place must present “valid government-issued pho- ity is...Equality. Social justice is just that-justice for all. tographic identification” before getting a ballot. (What photo IDs will Shana tova. be acceptable? What about absentee voters who cannot be at the polling place to present an ID?) Open Meeting Voters without the proper ID “must be permitted to submit a provi- Sunday, November 11, 9:45 to 12:15 p.m. at Mount Zion sional ballot.” (Requires the state to set up whole new systems to allow for Facilitated by Beth Zemsky, Consultant Specializing in Social Change Work provisional ballots at an estimated cost of $50 million and the ongoing Election days are like false summits: you hike around the corner, thinking costs to local taxpayers would be $3-15 million/year) that you are at the top of the mountain, only to realize that there is plenty Provisional ballots will be counted only if the voter brings appropriate of climbing left to do. Join us, and we’ll do that climbing together. Re- ID to election offices within a week or so. (Another day off work plus gardless of the election results, we will use this time to discuss how we can transportation) come together to put our Jewish values to work for tzedek in our state. The state must issue “photographic identification at no charge” to all Beyond the Yellow Ribbon eligible voters without the required photo ID. (Taxpayers will pay for The tzedek committee is exploring a relationship with the Be- “free” ID; voters will pay for required documents.) yond the Yellow Ribbon campaign (www.btyr.org). Kate Photo ID would eliminate absentee voting and same day registration Cavett, who is leading this exploration, Mitch Rubenstein, and as we know it, impacting homebound voters, servicemen and women Michael Kuhne met with Grant Abbot, the campaign’s faith overseas, and students studying out of state and abroad. Please join fellow organizer, and Capt. Jeff Pratt of the National Guard to discuss members of the Jewish Community in defeating this amendment. JCA what the congregation can do to support this campaign, which at its will be hosting weekly phone banks and many other activities. To learn heart “is united to bring Servicemembers all the way home” (Beyond more please go to www.jewishcommunityaction.org or contact Melissa the Yellow Ribbon). Please contact Kate Cavett (katecavett@oralhis- Rudnick at 651-632-2184 or [email protected] torian.org)if you would like to be part of this effort.

13 TAKE HOLD OF TORAH - A YEAR OF TZEDEK

B’tzelem Elohim/We are all created in the image of God - “Hear O Israel,” tells us that the beginning of love is listening. By lis- If we listen, we will hear the demand for justice. The divine demand for tening, we allow the other to tell their story. To hear the other’s story is Tzedek, when it is viewed through the “mirror” of this text, tells us to to understand what we must do in order to make this world more just. see God in every person, beginning with the person we see in the mir- Thank you to the participants in Mount Zion’s Monday Torah Study, ror. Tzedek is what we owe to the other person, and to ourselves, as rep- a weekly noontime session open to all and led wonderfully by Rabbi Es- resentatives of the divine. ther Adler. It was a privilege to spend time together contemplating this If we are made in the divine image and God demands that we listen, text and considering its relationship to the pursuit of justice. You are all then we can conclude that God, too, listens. The Shma/V’Ahavta, my teachers. —Jonathan Eisenthal, editor, Take Hold of Torah

Modern voices: Perhaps people were created in God’s image or maybe people create God Look into your own heart, discover what it is that gives you pain and in the image of what we hope human-kind to be. Either way, the only then refuse, under any circumstance whatsoever, to inflict that pain on way that we can live up to the ideal of “Love your neighbor as yourself” anybody else. -Karen Armstrong is to actually have high regard for ourselves. (No, I’m not talking about The single story creates stereotypes, and the problem with stereotypes is being egotistical!) To me, this emphasizes the great importance of a lov- not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete. They make one ing family and of strong early childhood education. The community be- story become the only story. -Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie comes vital in helping to provide this early and continuing education, There is no real independent self, aloof from other human beings, in- especially in the absence of families that are able to do so. Children need specting the world, inspecting other people. You are, in fact, connected to grow up understanding that we share God‘s capacity for love. And not just via Facebook and Internet, you’re actually quite literally con- then, of course, we need to make the effort to know and understand our nected by your neurons. -Neuroscientist Vilayanur Ramachandran neighbors so that we can love them as our own. -Devora Molitor Voices from Mount Zion: Rabbinic commentaries: We all have the “image” of God in us. The Chofetz Chaim tells a para- We must trust each other with this in ble about a poor man who begs a mind—we must respect each other with thousand ruble loan from a this in mind. We are all unique and have wealthy man and then leaves the something to offer. -Gus Gutman money, unused, in a drawer until Being created in God’s image means my the day he pays it back. We are soul is directly from God. Love Your like that pauper. God creates us in neighbor as yourself means to me—do God’s image, “lending us a pre- not harm or do anything to cause harm cious soul and giving us the op- to another soul. We were given free will, portunity to use the loan in order but also God’s rules for justice. to produce spiritual profit in the -Torah Study Participant form of Torah and Mitzvot. We, Regardless of one’s perception of God, however, like the foolish pauper, the prayer “Shma Yisrael” is a call for let the power of our souls lie dor- justice. We are witness to injustice, and mant and never bother to use our so it becomes our job to “make the loan for any worthwhile invest- streets of our town as bright as the paths ment”....that God tells us we are of heaven.” -J. Liber made in God’s image is a reminder of the gift, and a reminder that it is th It is our raison d’etre to care for our fellow human beings—no matter meant to be used, not ignored. -Chofetz Chaim, 19 Century Lithuania, who that fellow be—even if all one can do is pray for that person. We have Mussar movement (adapted from the Artscroll Pirkei Avos Treasury) only this world—we are obligated to do whatever we can with what we Rabbi Akiva’s stress on love may serve to soften those views of Judaism have. This is the command of the one God. that see it merely as a religion of law. For Akiva, the human awareness of -Torah Study Participant the divine source of our life should be the source of our own sense of Justice is doing what is morally right. We are all created in the image of love. More than that, if our bond to God is one of love, it is incumbent God means we all come from the same source so we are all related. There- upon us to relate lovingly to one another, as human beings, as fellow im- fore we should treat each other as if we are one and the same. In sum- ages of God. mation: Justice means treating one another in a morally just manner Rashi sees our being created in God’s image as the basis for obedience to without poking each other with sticks or shooting each other with guns. God. Maimonides states in his Guide(I:1) that it is intellectual compre- -Ray Sevett hension that indicates that human beings were created in the divine The concept of Tzedakah is so ingrained in Jews that we give because it image. is the correct thing to do, without coupling it to the biblical concept of -Pirkei Avot, A Modern Commentary, UAHC, ed. Leonard Kravitz and being made in G-d’s image. What if we did connect Tzedakah and G-d’s Kerry M. Olitzky image? I believe it would change the way we view Tzedakah. -Ed Pickett 14 Mount Zion Temple PRESORTED STANDARD 1300 Summit Avenue US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 814 Saint Paul, MN 55105 TWIN CITIES, MN Address Service Requested

Rabbi Adam Stock Spilker Rabbi Esther Adler Cantor Rachel Stock Spilker Cantor Jennifer Strauss-Klein Larry Solomon, Executive Director Dana Prottas, Lower School and Hebrew School Director Ana Apter, Teen and Chai School Director Robert O. Mast, President Ellen B. Rest, President-Elect Teresa Matzek, Iton Tziyon, editor [email protected] Phone: 651-698-3881 ~ Fax: 651-698-1263 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.mzion.org Food for Thought Learn and Nosh before Shabbat Services Come at 5:45 p.m. to learn or at 7:00 p.m. to socialize! Inside the Campaign to Vote No on the Marriage Amendment Friday, October 12, 5:45-7:00 p.m. See page 6 for more details.

See page 4 for more details.

Rabbi’s Letter 2 A Year of Tzedek Service Schedule 3 What drives you to work for a better world? High Holy Days 4-5 Sunday, November 11, 9:45 – 12:15 p.m. Chai Notes 6 Open Meeting at Mount Zion From the President 7 After the elections and our conversations, what ways can we come together to put our Jewish values to work for tzedek in our state? Israel Matters 7 Committees 8 B’nei Mitzvah 9 Sisterhood 9 Religious School 10 Teen and Youth 11 INSIDE Brotherhood 11 Contributions 12 Social Action Update 13 As part of Mount Zion’s historic involvement in a campaign against discrimination in our state’s constitution, this banner hangs facing Summit Avenue. A Year of Tzedek 14