WishingWe Wish you You a happy A Happy and healthy Chanukah! summer! ב”ה

A PUBLICATION OF LUBAVITCH EL PASO

6615 Westwind Dr. • El Paso, TX 79912 • Tel: (915) 584-8218 • www.chabadelpaso.com

Issue 137 Kislev 5776 November 2015

Dear Friend, Chabad is hosting its annual Chabad Lubavitch of El Paso fundraising raffle to help As our third decade support the many ongoing nears completion we are activities. Please participate filled with a sense of pride in the raffle by purchasing and gratitude. Pride in the one or more tickets and be a beautiful community we have Twelfth Annual Raffle partner in ensuring a vibrant become and gratitude to you Jewish future in El Paso. The for partnering with us in this grand prize is two round trip revolutionary endeavor. Your 2016 • 5776 tickets to Israel ($2,500.00). commitment and support is what enables us to reach out One (1) ticket - $100.00 to every Jew in the region Three (3) Tickets - $250.00 regardless of social status, background or affiliation. To purchase tickets, mail in the form on page 10 or call This past year has us at (915) 584-8218. Tickets been one of continued may also be purchased online development and growth. at chabadelpaso.com/raffle Our annual programming has seen an increase in interest The raffle drawing will be held and participation. Camp Gan on January 17th. Israel provided a fabulous summer experience to thirty With much appreciation for campers. Always increasing Two round trip tickets your support, Torah study opportunities, the new bi-monthly Lunch and to Israel ($2,500 cash) Rabbi and Mrs. Yisrael Greenberg Learn has garnered much Rabbi and Mrs. Levi Greenberg interest and participation. chabadelpaso.com/raffle

Project Give Warmth EP ChanukahChanukah sweatshirts for kids PlaylandPlayland LargestLargest AnnualAnnual ChanukahChanukah CelebrationCelebration inin town!town! Sunday,Sunday, DecemberDecember 66 W e A r e E l P a s o SeeSee PagePage 66

With a high poverty and unemployment rate - many of El Paso’s Menorah Workshop children will not be properly prepared for winter. at Home Depot You Can Help Change That! Sunday, November 22 Sponsor a sweatshirt for a deserving El Paso child. page 10 Drop off NEW sweatshirts Monetary donations may be at Chabad Lubavitch. made with check or online: (Kindly arrange a drop off time by calling 915-584-8218) www.chabadelpaso.com/warmthep $15.00 per sweatshirt Thank you for your care and support!

Your Chanukah Guide December 6 - 14 Page 11 Page 2 THE EL PASO CHABAD TIMES — CHANUKAH 5776 / NOVEMBER 2015

one candle. On night two we never been in a shul before! Your service has inspired us add a second until the eighth to continue growing in Torah and night we have a fully lit Menorah. mitzvos and to maybe sometime The relevant message return for another service at the is clear: We must strive to Chabad center. constantly increase in light. Sincerely, E. and H. Never be satisfied with past accomplishments. Each new day is a fresh opportunity to Dear Rabbi Yisrael and Chana reach new heights. From Our Mail Box and Rabbi Levi and Shainy, Entering the fourth decade Thank you for the New Year’s t “Lekach” sweet honey cake and of Chabad in El Paso we are ÷ ø hanukah is upon us once good wishes for the New Year 5776. C proud of our accomplishments Dear Rabbi and Mrs. Greenberg, again. I hope the the coming year brings but our vision is focused on Thank you for the excellent you and your families health and It is an opportunity to connect hospitality you provided during Yom the future. There is much happiness. to our ancestors of ancient Kippur services yesterday. Yom I look forward to seeing you at only opportunity and potential in our times who battled to preserve Kippur was always my father’s good and happy occasions, where desert town. Join the ongoing favorite holiday. He thought of it as our precious traditions. By we can enjoy life. revolution of Jewish identity a Jewish strength that we ask G-d Again, my best to you all. commemorating the miracle of and education. As individuals to forgive us for sins as a nation, Fondly, the oil that expressed G-d’s love assuming joint responsibility. He and as a community we are R.B. for His people, we celebrate our left the synagogue after the shofar building a Jewish today and religious freedom and the right to telling us the Jews would return ensuring a Jewish tomorrow for next year. You helped me remember be who we are. Dear Rabbi Levi and Shainy, our children. those days. We are so appreciative of all you At the heart of this festival May you and your family do to make our children’s learning is the kindling of the Chanukah Sincerely yours, so fun and enriching. We especially be blessed with a joyous and Menorah. We do not merely light SE appreciate how you help mark and bright Chanukah. all eight candles every night. celebrate their birthdays. Rabbi Yisrael Greenberg Rather, on the first night we light They are growing up with such a Rabbi, love for Torah and Mitzvos and we Thank you for allowing me and thank you for helping to cultivate an my father to join your congregation environment in which they can thrive, New Program! for the Rosh Hashanah Shacris Warmest wishes, and Shofar blowing. Please excuse I. & E. C. any of our ignorant behavior; we’ve Mommy & Me With A J e wi s h T wi s t

Wednesdays Baby Boy 9:45 - 10:45am Aharon Shayesteh Proud Parents Ages 0 - 3 Dr. Nima & Shirin Shayesteh RSVP to Shainy: Wedding [email protected] Aviv Arusi and Hana Geller 915.204.6581 Proud Parents Yinon and Nili Arusi Can't Wait To See Y'all! In This Issue ADVERTISE IN THE EL PASO CHABAD TIMES 12th Annual Raffle...... p 1 Reach every Jewish household in El Paso is published by Project Give Warmth EP...... p 1 The Rabbi’s Message...... p 2 ADVERTISING OPTIONS CHABAD LUBAVITCH Mazel Tov...... p 2 Business Card $100 Half Page $400 OF EL PASO From Our Mail Box...... p 2 Double Business Card $180 Full Page $700 6615 Westwind Drive A Message from the Lubavitcher ...p 3 What’s Happening On Chanukah...... p 3 El Paso, Texas 79912 Chabad Lubavitch Convention...... p 4 Call Chabad at 915-584-8218 to place your ad now! (915) 584-8218 Daily Study of Maimonides...... p 5 [email protected] Chanukah Playland...... p 6 Chabad In Photos...... p 7 Director The Splattered Gem...... p 8 Jewish Women’s Circle...... p 8 RABBI YISRAEL GREENBERG Chanukah Story...... p 9 Editor Chanukah Recipe...... p 9 RABBI LEVI GREENBERG Kids In The Kitchen...... p 9 Menorah Workshop at Home Depot...... p 10 The Chabad Times is published Raffle Ticket...... p 10 five times a year for the Jewish 10 Tevet...... p 10 Holidays. Ongoing Programs at Chabad...... p 10 Your Chanukah Guide...... p 11 Chabad of El Paso does not certify the kashrut of its advertisers. Chanukah Calendar...... p 11 New Building Project...... p 12 THE EL PASO CHABAD TIMES — CHANUKAH 5776 / NOVEMBER 2015 Page 3

The Lamp Lighter A Holiday Message from The Lubavitcher Rebbe

There is another difference: the Beth Hamikdosh - and the Sabbath-lights have their place indoors, while the place of Chanukah lights is at the entrance to the home (when Jews lived freely in their land, the place was outside the entrance). Finally, there is yet another distinction: in the former two cases the lights remain the same, while the Chanukah lights are increased Do a good deed today ... every night. The lesson which seems to And help others do be indicated by the Chanukah lights is that besides lighting up The message of Chanukah the home (Sabbath lights) and a good deed tomorrow! is important and timely to all the synagogue and Yeshiva Jews, but even more so to (substituting for the Sanctuary of Jews living in surroundings old), the Jew has the additional with comparatively little responsibility of lighting up Jewish vitality and activity. It is the “outside,” the whole precisely in such circumstance environment. Moreover, when Remember that Chanukah offers many a conditions are unfavorable (it useful lesson. One such lesson is “dark” outside), it is then not Chabad Lubavitch I wish to make the subject of enough to make a light and this message. maintain it, though it is also It is noteworthy that the an achievement in view of the of El Paso in your will. Chanukah lights must be darkness; but it is necessary kindled after sunset, when it is to steadily increase the lights, dark outside, unlike the lights through steadily growing efforts that were kindled in the Beth to spread the light of Torah and Hamikdosh [Holy Temple] mitzvoth, to illuminate not only much earlier, or the Sabbath one’s home, but the whole lights kindled on Friday before environment as well... sunset.

Shainy's Challah Grace your Shabbat table with freshly home baked Challah! One for $6 | Two for $10 Orders due every Wednesday at noon. [email protected] | 915.204.6581

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON CHANUKAH AT CHABAD? We invite you to celebrate with us! Sunday, November 22: giving this Chanukah. A dessert buffet you Wednesday, December 17: don’t want to miss and donut frying will round We want y’all to be prepared for Chanukah Chabad will be hosting a Chanukah party for off the social evening. See page 8 for details in style. Once again, Home Depot (Mesa and the residents of The Monte Vista senior living Remcon) will be hosting a special Chanukah community. workshop. This time we will be creating Rock- Sunday, December 6: The event we are all waiting for! This year et ! Kids and adults alike will have Chabad will be hosting the Chanukah Playland. Motzei Shabbat (Saturday a grand time with this novel craft. Piping hot Enjoy awesome inflatable ride by InterExtreme: and joyous holiday music will round off Night) December 12th: Featuring the brand new Big Baller, Rock Moun- Join us for Maariv and Havdalah services fol- this awesome event. See page 6 for details. tain, Giant Double Lane Slide and more. Try lowed by the lighting of the grand outdoor Me- Wednesday, December 2: your hands at various Chanukah themed arts norah, a film and Chanukah refreshments. and crafts projects as well as donut making & The Jewish Women’s Circle is proud to pres- decorating. Of course there will be a grand out- ent a pre-Chanukah event for women: The Art Sunday, December 13: door Menorah lighting. BBQ style dinner will be Celebrate the last night of Chanukah at the of Gift Wrapping and Creative Bows. Discover for sale. See page 6 for details. eighth public menorah lighting and a sushi bar! tips from the pros to greatly enhance your gift 5:00pm Page 4 THE EL PASO CHABAD TIMES — CHANUKAH 5776 / NOVEMBER 2015 Total Dedication to Goodness Highlights Chabad-Lubavitch Annual Gala A Hakhel gathering of inspiration for 5,200 at the International Conference of Emissaries By Karen Schwartz Gary Stein spent a weekend - the very identity - the Rebbe earlier this month learning imbued within the . about Chabad - in depth and in He credits much of his person. He left Vacaville, Calif., inspiration—both as a boy and last week at the invitation of an aspiring shaliach—to the Rabbi Chaim Zaklos, co-director Rebbe, and as such told some of Chabad-Lubavitch of Solano powerful childhood anecdotes County, and the two made their that have remained with him. way to , joining a Chein urged his group of 5,200 Chabad rabbis fellow shluchim to redouble and guests from 86 countries their efforts to spread Jewish converging for the annual awareness, joy and Torah International Conference of knowledge despite any Chabad-Lubavitch Emissaries difficulties they may encounter. (Kinus Hashluchim). “And together with The conference, now in its 32nd the shaliach is the lay leader,” year, offered a chance for the he continued, glancing around rabbis to recharge their batteries Largest family photo: Over 2,000 Chabad Emmisaries pose in front of Lubavitch World Headquarters the room at the many guests in an atmosphere of camaraderie at . present. “The Rebbe insisted and inspiration before returning on calling you partners, rather to their communities. It also than donors. A donor contributes gave community members the to a cause outside of himself. opportunity to better appreciate A partner has a vested interest the global impact of Chabad- in the cause; it concerns him Lubavitch and its underlying personally. philosophy, and spend some “I believe I echo the sentiments of quality time with fellow Jews from every shliach and shlucha when around the world. I say, we feel blessed by this Which is exactly what Stein, who partnership. For your crucial participates in Shabbat dinners support, we are eternally and attends guest lectures at his grateful. And of your abilities, area Chabad center, was looking we are in awe. You are able to for: “I wanted to get more of an influence frontiers beyond our idea of the worldwide spirit of reach. There are Jews, who for Chabad. It’s hard to get that from whatever reason, won’t come to someone just telling you about it.” Photo: Eliyahu Parypa/Chabad.org the rabbi’s home for a Shabbat “The highlight for me was being Moshe Holtzberg, son of Rabbi Gavriel and Rivka Holzberg o.b.m. - the Chabad dinner or Hakhel gathering, but emissaries to Mumbai, India - recites psalm 114 at the International Convention. at the resting place of the Rebbe,” they feel honored to be invited said Stein, who was also moved encourage each individual to dry eye in the room. His crisp to your Shabbat table or your by experiencing the “dedication “bring together” his and her words hung in the air and Hakhel social. There are people of those gathered there. I’ve own mind and heart—to sync were followed by thunderous who won’t yet come to a Chabad never seen anything like it.” and unite their own actions applause. center for a class, but they are This being a Hakhel year - a with their intentions, with the The keynote speaker was delighted to attend a lunch-and- year focused on unity gatherings unifying intent of serving G-d. Rabbi Shloime Chein, co- learn in your office. in rededication to Torah This unity and rededication director of the Rohr Chabad “There are Jews for whom and mitzvoth - made it especially was perhaps best exhibited at Student Center in Santa Cruz., what the rabbi does might important for the emissaries to the Sunday-night gala dinner Calif., who spoke movingly seem old-fashioned, but when come together. in the South Brooklyn Marine about how the work of a you do it, it seems hip. With The biblical Hakhel took place Terminal. The room swelled Chabad emissary couple is your talents, ambitions and once every seven years at the with people gathered to rejoice more than something they do accomplishments, you possess conclusion of the Sabbatical in community and the work of for a living, but who they are. keys to doors that are still closed (Shemittah) year, and brought Chabad. “The Rebbe’s standards before us. You bring Abraham’s Jewish men, women and children An honored guest at are astonishing, both in the mission and the Rebbe’s calling to the to be the banquet was Moshe boundless energy and the to places only you can. inspired by the Torah, which was Holtzberg—the surviving utilization of every moment,” he “And in truth,” he emphasized, read by the king. During Hakhel child of Rabbi Gavriel and stated. “And this is a bracha the “this must become the modus years past, the Rebbe would Rivka Holtzberg, who were Rebbe gives us. By setting the operandi of each Jew. All around regularly urge Jews worldwide murdered in a November 2008 standards so high, the Rebbe us, all the time, are opportunities to assemble and inspire one terror attack on their Chabad in effect empowers us to reach to turn a serendipitous moment another to increase in Torah House in Mumbai, India. He our own unfathomable heights. into a shared mitzvah. We must observance and study. lead the assembled in reciting The more we live and breathe seize these opportunities.” The Rebbe’s Hakhel message a chapter of Psalms. our shlichus, the more strength In his talk, the rabbi drew is both universal and personal: Moshe walked up to the we discover within ourselves, from deep personal experiences to unite everyone together to stage assuredly and in a voice allowing us to inspire Jews of persistence in the face of focus collectively on ever more ringing with confidence read to in ways that no one thought adversity, which also was the Torah and mitzvot, as well as a captive audience with nary a possible. This is the work ethic topic of a video of how the Rebbe inspired and guided THE EL PASO CHABAD TIMES — CHANUKAH 5776 / NOVEMBER 2015 Page 5 Daily Study of Maimonides’ Works

Rabbi Moshe ben Maimon, authored before Maimonides Talmudist, Halachist, physi- omit the laws that were not ger- cian, philosopher and commu- mane at the time.) nal leader, known in the Jewish In the spring of 1984, world by the acronym “Ram- the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem bam” and to the world at large Mendel Schneerson, of righteous as “Maimonides,” is one of the memory, called for an innovative most important figures in the his- addition to the daily study sched- tory of Torah scholarship; on his ule of every Jewish man, woman gravestone were inscribed the and child. He suggested that ev- words, “From Moses to Moses, eryone study daily a portion of none arose as Moses.” Maimonides’ Mishneh Torah. Today, many hospitals and • The Rebbe suggested a schools across the globe are three-track system: For those named after Maimonides; and to capable, a three chapter per-day this day, students worldwide pore schedule, completing the Mish- over his scholarly works. neh Torah in slightly less than Moshe was born in Cordoba, one year. Spain, on the 14th of Nissan (the • For those who lack the time eve of Passover) of the year 4895 to study three chapters a day, a (1135 C.E.1). His father Maimon, one chapter per-day program a direct descendant of King Da- that lasts close to three years. vid, was a judge in the city’s rab- • For those whose level of binical court. His mother passed scholarship doesn’t allow for away when he was yet a small the study of Mishneh Torah, the child, some suggesting that his Rebbe suggested that they study younger siblings were born after every day from Maimonides’ Se- Maimon remarried. fer Hamitzvot, the “Book of Com- At the age of thirteen, his Rabbi Moshe Ben Maimon - Moses Maimonides mandments,” those command- family was forced to flee Cordoba ments being studied in great when a fanatic Islamic sect took The difficulty was, however, one’s service of G-d.” detail by those participating in control of the city; the Jews were that the Talmudic rulings – as The Mishneh Torah also in- the three chapter per-day regi- attacked by rioters and many well as the aforementioned corporates the basics of Jewish men - concluding all 613 com- synagogues were destroyed. commentaries – were not or- thought and belief. mandments in the same course Moshe and his family traveled ganized in a strictly encyclo- Another unique component of time. from place to place looking where pedic, logical fashion, making of the volumes is that they are This suggestion was enthu- to relocate. Not finding anything research extremely taxing. For not limited to laws that pertain siastically accepted by tens of suitable in Spain, he and his fa- example, in order to study the to our day and age, which con- thousands, bringing Maimonides’ ther and younger brother, Da- laws of Shabbat by explor- stitute only a small part of the works to unparalleled promi- vid, moved to Fez, Morocco, for ing the Talmud, one needs to 613 biblical commandments, nence. five years. In 4925 (1165 C.E.), search through tens of trac- but also include laws that will Today, Jews across the globe he visited the land ofIsrael and tates. pertain to the Messianic era, celebrate at the completion of the then moved to Alexandria, Egypt. Maimonides was the first such as the laws of tithing, cycle every year. Later, he settled in Fustat, today one to index the entire body of the Jubilee Year, and the Tem- known as Old Cairo, where he Oral Law – both Talmuds, the ple service. lived until his passing. various halachic Midrashim, In this area, Maimonides Maimonides’ magnum later works authored by was more than a trailblazer; opus is hiscodification of Jewish the Geonim, and even kabbal- to this very day theMishneh law, which he called Mishneh To- istic texts – and compile it all in Torah remains the only work rah, or “second to the Torah.” The a logical and systematic fash- of this scope. No other work – bit.ly/dailymitzvah fourteen volume work is a logical ion. authored beforehand or after- Scan here to subscribe for systematic codification of Jewish Maimonides codified the wards – covers the entire cor- the Daily Mitzvah email from law. laws of Shabbat, holidays, pus of Jewish law. (Even the Chabad.org Prior to Maimonides, in order prayer, dietary laws, and the commentaries on Jewish law to know Jewish law, one would laws that regulate the Jew’s have to learn the entire Talmud. daily life. He also wrote a sec- You are cordially invited to join us in celebrating the And since the Talmud itself as tion on eating healthy, fitness, completion of the 34th cycle of Maimonides study. at times indecisive, often incor- and mental health—teaching future learners that all our ac- porating conflicting opinions on Motzei Shabbat (Saturday Night), November 21 Jewish law, it was necessary to tions should be permeated then study the various commen- with holiness and G-dliness. 7:00pm at Chabad Lubavitch taries, which clarified the final “The health and wellbeing of law. the body,” he writes, “is part of Delicious Falafel Bar different shluchim who faced various to California with a far better understanding challenges over the years. All of them and appreciation of the Rebbe and his wound up succeeding in their missions. teachings. In Chein’s case, his challenge was in “I knew the Rebbe was very meaningful fighting a rare autoimmune disease that he to Rabbi Zaklos,” he said. “So I thought I eventually overcame. should get to know more about him. Now Meanwhile, Gary Stein said he I’m much more impressed with the depth appreciated the chance to spend time in of his influence on the Chabad community Crown Heights, and felt that he will return and the Jewish world.” Page 6 THE EL PASO CHABAD TIMES — CHANUKAH 5776 / NOVEMBER 2015 THE EL PASO CHABAD TIMES — CHANUKAH 5776 / NOVEMBER 2015 Page 7 The Mega Challah Bake

Kids in the Kitchen

Rabbis Yisrael and Levi Greenberg with Consul General of Mexica Jacob Prado. Mrs. Bessie Garelik delivers an inspirational talk at the senior’s luncheon at the Chabad Sukkah.

Rabbi Lieberman of Ashkelon, Israel delivers an inspirational talk at Chabad. “Lekach” - traditional honey cake in honor of the new year - for City Rep. Peter Svarzbein. Page 8 THE EL PASO CHABAD TIMES — CHANUKAH 5776 / NOVEMBER 2015 The Splattered Gem On the 19th of Kislev of the year 5559 (1798), Rabbi Schneur More than a personal liberation, this was a watershed event in Zalman of - the founder of Chabad Chassidism – Known the history of Chassidism heralding a new era in the revelation as the Alter Rebbe - was released from his imprisonment in of the “inner soul” of Torah, and is celebrated to this day as “The the Peter-Paul fortress in Petersburg,where he was held for Rosh Hashanah of Chassidism.” In honor of the 19 of Kislev 53 days on charges that his teachings threatened the imperial (celebrated this year December 1) we present to you a story of authority of the Czar. the Alter Rebbe.

Among the disciples of precious possession and Rabbi DovBer of Mezeritch the ultimate symbol of his (the second leader of the sovereignty. chassidic movement, d. 1772) “At first, the king’s ministers were many who argued that were overjoyed to discover the sanctity of the esoteric the gem. But as soon as they teachings revealed by their realized that by removing the master must be safeguarded stone from the crown—the very and shared only with a select one with which their king was few. Others, chief amongst crowned—its entire glory would them Rabbi Schneur Zalman fade, they were extremely of Liadi, were of the opinion distressed. Nonetheless, they that they must be circulated were forced to inform the king as widely as possible. They that the gem had been found. transcribed Rabbi DovBer’s “The king was overjoyed. He teachings, made many copies, commanded that the gem be and actively distributed them to extracted and ground to a fine the wider Jewish community. powder, and that the potion for One day, one of these his son be quickly prepared. transcriptions was discovered “But at that moment, terrible languishing in a mound of news reached the royal garbage. The sight of this palace: the prince’s condition caused great pain to all of had so deteriorated that his Rabbi DovBer’s disciples, lips were sealed. So ill was and renewed the critique of the prince that he could take those who cheapened their nothing, not even liquids, into master’s holy words with their his mouth. The experts and indiscriminate distribution. scholars assembled at the Rabbi Schneur Zalman palace were certain that, under responded with a parable: Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi - The Alter Rebbe - Founder Of Chabad the circumstances, the king “Once upon a time,” he would surely direct that the began his tale, “there was a fallen gravely ill, and that the stone which, if one would grind stone not be ground, so that mighty king who had an only doctors were unable to find a it to the finest of powders, mix it the splendor of the royal crown son. Wishing his son to grow cure for his illness. A call was with a superb wine, and give it could be preserved. in wisdom and might, he sent issued throughout the land, to the prince to drink—he would “How astounded they were to him off to explore faraway offering great reward. But all be cured. hear the king instructing them lands and far-flung islands. the great doctors, all the famed “This gem, however, was to hurry and crush the gem and There the prince was to learn scholars, were silenced, for extremely rare, and could not to prepare the potion as swiftly the nature of foreign plants and they knew no remedy or cure be obtained anywhere in the as possible, and to pour it into animals, and brave dangerous for the illness of the prince. kingdom and beyond. The only the mouth of the prince. ‘Grind, terrain to capture exotic beasts “Then there arrived a man specimen in existence was the pour, squander the entire and birds. who knew of a proven remedy centerpiece of the royal crown gemstone,’ said the king. ‘Who “One day, the news reached for the illness of the prince. He of the king. Removing this knows? Perhaps a single drop the king that his son, who was described a certain precious gem would mean destroying will enter the mouth of my son, then on a faraway island, had the crown—the king’s most and he will be healed!’”

Jewish Women's Circle Presents

the art of Gift Wrapping and Creative Bows - Pre-Chanukah Evening for Women - Learn various gift wrapping and creative bow techniques to enhance your gift giving this year. Dessert Buffet & Donut Making Wednesday, December 2 | 7:00pm Chabad Education Center Admission: $10 | Cosponsor: $100 6516 Escondido Drive #A11 Kindly RSVP to Shainy: [email protected] | 915-204-6581 THE EL PASO CHABAD TIMES — CHANUKAH 5776 / NOVEMBER 2015 Page 9 The Lights In The Window A small wooden house stood and he could see a tall, distinguished on the side of the steep mountain looking Jew with a white beard as though hiding in its shadow. As framing his shining face. far as the eye could see, were the “Who are you?” asked Yisrael. majestic Carpathian Mountains. The man smiled and said, “I am The Divine creation was visible in all Matityahu the Priest from Modiin, a its glory. Hasmonean.” A young couple lived in this Yisrael blinked his eyes and the house. They had married only a man was no longer nearby but few months before, and now they far, far ahead. He quickly got up were building their lives quietly and in order to follow the man with the peacefully. candle. The flame danced on, the The wife was called Rachel and winds powerless to extinguish it. the husband was called Yisrael. Yisrael walking without knowing When he became the Rebbe of how much time had elapsed, until the Jewish people, he was called he finally began to recognize his Rabbi Yisrael Baal Shem Tov. surroundings. He noticed some Despite his youth, his appearance he usually did. Before leaving, he ever thicker. Yisrael found himself familiar signs, roads that he had and demeanor reflected profound said to Rachel, “With G-d’s help, I walking in circles, but he maintained frequented. In another few minutes, wisdom and understanding. His hope to return with nightfall of the his trust in G-d. he identified the paths that led to his eyes always radiated joy, and his first night of Chanuka in order to The hour grew late and the time for house. face bespoke a deep tranquility. light the menora. But if, G-d forbid, lighting the menora had long since From a distance, he could see a His young wife Rochel was I tarry and don’t come till night, passed. Yisrael so wanted to light tiny flame in the window of his house. content, and this was despite the don’t wait for me. Light the menora the menora at the proper time. He A pure flame that had been kindled fact that she hardly ever saw her yourself so as not to delay this great knew that each year, at the time that by his wife. Despite the severe cold, husband. Throughout the week, mitzva (commandment).” the menora is lit, the “hidden light,” she stood in the doorway, outside Yisrael left home and walked The days passed quickly. In a few the light of Moshiach, is revealed. the house, wrapped in her heavy through the forests that covered minutes it would be nightfall and the But something, some force, seemed coat and fur hat. She was relieved the Carpathian mountains. He first Chanuka light would be lit in all to block Yisrael’s way. and overjoyed to see her husband would leave Sunday morning and Jewish homes. Yisrael had set out A strange heaviness took hold finally approaching. It was long past return Friday afternoon, before to return home much earlier but of Yisrael. He found it difficult to midnight and she had been worried. Shabbat. Rochel was happy his progress home had been slow. continue walking against the howling Yisrael looked right and left, but because she knew her husband Though dusk was approaching, the wind. He finally sat down on a rock there was no trace of the man who was an outstanding tzadik, a holy light of the joy of a mitzva illuminated that stood among the trees. Yisrael had led him home. man. Most people didn’t know this. his visage. sat there, exhausted. Another two A few minutes later, the Baal She knew, though her husband Yisrael’s high boots sank deeply minutes went by and he fell asleep. Shem Tov was standing in front of hid it from others. The time for his into the snow. The thick stick cleared The shrieking wind and the sound his tin menora. He prepared the greatness to be revealed to the the path before him. A fur hat, like of the trees branches moving above wicks, poured the oil, and with lofty, world had not yet arrived. the peasant farmers wore, was on awoke him from his slumber. To his mystical intentions, he recited the It was the height of winter and his head. The bitter cold and the surprise it seemed to him that he blessings. When he finished reciting snow fell and covered all in its white piercing mountain winds whipped could see a figure approaching. the poetic songs that follow the blanket. It was almost Chanuka, the his face. Yisrael saw a figure in white, lighting, dawn began to break over holiday of light, joy, and warmth. The forest paths disappeared holding a large candle, walking the snowy Carpathian Mountains. On Sunday Yisrael went out as and the tangle of branches became towards him. The figure came closer

No Yeast Donut Holes Kids In The Kitchen Ingredients: 2 Tablespoons sugar KITK is a unique culinary experience. Through the 5 cups vegetable oil, for frying 4 1/2 teaspoons baking pow- year children cook and experiment in an 1 cup milk der environment that fosters discovery and creativity. 1 large egg 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted Ages 3-12 • Sundays • 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Directions: Once the oil has reached 350ºF, Sushi Night! In a small bowl, whisk together the use a small ice cream scoop to January 17 - Join us in the Far East as we roll tasty sushi to go! drop about 1 tablespoon scoops of milk and the egg. I Love Shabbat! dough into the oil. Fry the dough- February 28 - Chicken Soup, Matzo Balls and more! In a separate medium bowl, whisk nut holes, flipping them in the oil, together the flour, sugar, baking for about 2 minutes or until they’re Lasagna Italiano! powder and salt. Stir the milk-egg golden brown. Using a slotted May 17 - Enjoy the delightful smell of sauce and cheese mixture into the dry ingredients, spoon, transfer the doughnut holes and create a pan of lasagna for a feat! then stir in the melted butter, mix- to a paper towel-lined baking For more info and to rsvp please contact [email protected] ing until a soft dough forms. sheet. or call 915-204-6581 Me and the Menorah • Attention Shoppers! Throughout Chanukah there will be three public Menorah displays. Take a photo of yourself with one of these Menorahs. • Sunland Park Mall (in front of Dillard’s) • Cielo Vista Mall (at the main entrance) Share the photo on our facebook page – fb.com/chabadelpaso • The Outlet Shoppes at El Paso or email it to [email protected] and we will share it.

Each photo gives you a chance to win a beautiful Menorah! Looking forward to seeing the shining faces and the bright Chanukah lights! Page 10 THE EL PASO CHABAD TIMES — CHANUKAH 5776 / NOVEMBER 2015

10 Tevet Chabad Lubavitch of El Paso On the 10th day of the Jewish month of Tevet, in the year 3336 from Creation (425 BCE), the armies of the Babylonian emperor Nebuchadnezzar laid siege to Jerusalem. Thirty months later—on 9 Tammuz 3338—the city walls were breached, and on 9 Av of that year the Holy Temple was destroyed. The Jewish people were exiled to Babylonia for 70 years. Twelfth Annual Raffle The 10th of Tevet (this year, December 22) is observed as a day of fasting, mourning and repentance. We refrain from food and drink from daybreak to nightfall and add selichot and other special supplements to our prayers. More recently, 10 Tevet was chosen to also 2016 • 5776 serve as a “general kaddish day” for the victims of the Holocaust, many of whose day of martyrdom is unknown. Ongoing Programs at Chabad Sunday Monday Tuesday Shacharit 9:00am Shacharit 7:00am Shacharit 8:30am Chabad Hebrew School - Maariv 7:00pm Downtown 10:00am - 12:00pm Talmud Class Maariv 7:00pm 12:00 noon - 1:00pm Maariv 7:00pm Torah Studies 7:30pm Two round trip tickets Wednesday Thursday Friday Shacharit 8:30am Shacharit 7:00am Shacharit 8:30am to Israel ($2,500 cash) Maariv 7:00pm Bi-Monthly Lunch and Learn Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00pm Women’s Nigh Out 12:00pm Class for Women Maariv 7:00pm chabadelpaso.com/raffle 7:30pm - 8:30pm Shabbat

Shacharit 9:30 am • Followed by A Sit Down Kiddush • Mincha will follow the Kiddush YES! I want to partner with Chabad by purchasing: Childrens Program 11:00am • Maariv, Havdalah and film after Shabbat 1 ticket ($100) 2 tickets ($200) 3 tickets ($250) 4 tickets ($350) 5 tickets ($450) 6 tickets ($500) Other____ Chabad is always hosting new classes and programs. To receive updates, e-mail [email protected] or visit us online at chabadelpaso.com THE EL PASO CHABAD TIMES — CHANUKAH 5776 / NOVEMBER 2015 Page 11 The Festival of Chanukah

Greeks. Miraculously, the one-day doorpost across the mezuzah and a vicious Greek general. She supply burned for eight days until some place it at the window facing served him salty cheese followed new oil could be prepared under the street. Kindled at sunset or by wine to quench his thirst. As conditions of ritual purity. nightfall, the candles should burn he slept, Judith seized his sword at least half an hour after dark. and slew him. Realizing that their o commemorate and On Friday, December 11th, the head had fallen his soldiers ran off publicize these miracles, Chanukah lights are kindled before in confusion and the Jews were the sages instituted the the Shabbat candle lighting time. saved. festivalT of Chanukah. At the heart of (Shabbat begins once the Shabbat Before lighting the Menorah the the festival is the nightly Menorah candles are lit, so it is forbidden to first night, first kindle the Shamash lighting: a single flame on the first light the Menorah later.) Saturday ‘servant’ candle, and recite the night, two on the second evening, night, the Chanukah candles are lit following three blessings. Each and so on till the eighth night of after the “Havdalah” ceremony bids additional night recite the first two Chanukah, when all eight lights are farewell to Shabbat. See calendar blessings only. kindled. below for Shabbat times. It is customary to sit by the hanukah -- the eight-day his year, we usher in Menorah, tell stories and sing BLESSINGS festival of light that begins Chanukah by lighting songs. We do not benefit directly 1) Bo-ruch A-toh Ado-noi E-lo- on the eve of Kislev 25 the first candle on from the light of the candles, only hei-nu Me-lech Wednesday,T December 16th at from the shamash or regular lights Ha-olom A-sher Ki-de-sha-nu Be- C-- celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, of purity over 5:04 pm. in the room. mitz-vo-sav Ve-tzi-va-nu Le-had-lik adulteration, of spirituality over The Menorah’s 8 lights must Women refrain from household Ner Cha-nu-kah. materiality. be of equal height, all in a row. chores during the half-hour that Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, More than twenty-one centuries To differentiate it from the other the lights burn, honoring the brave King of the Universe, Who sanctified ago, the Holy Land was ruled by Chanukah candles, the Shamash Jewish heroines who played crucial us by His commandments, and the Seleucids (Syrian-Greeks), ‘servant’ candle is placed a little roles in the Chanukah story. commanded us to kindle the light of who sought to forcefully Hellenize higher or lower. Chanukah. the people of Israel. Most Menorahs use candles, 2) Bo-ruch A-toh Ado-noi Elo-hei- The cruel King Antiochus while some prefer olive oil with PRAYERS nu Me-lech forced the Greek pantheon of idol wicks that can be purchased or “Hallel” is recited in the morning Ha-olom She-o-so Ni-sim La- worship on Israel in 164 B.C.E. He homemade by twisting a puff of prayers. We add “Al Hanissim” in avo-sei-nu appointed apostates who adopted absorbent cotton into a 2-3 inch the Amida and during the Grace Ba-yom-mim Ha-heim Biz-man Greek names, dress and thought string. after meals. Ha-zeh. to reduce the holy Torah to mere An electric menorah does not We give Chanukah “Gelt” to Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, literature, rather than Divine truth. fulfill the Mitzvah obligation, but children, encouraging them to King of the Universe, Who made But many Jews remained loyal to may be placed in addition to a donate some to charity. Gifts of miracles for our ancestors in those the Torah, so the angry Antiochus candle or oil menorah to promote books, games or toys are also days, at this time. sent soldiers to attack them and Chanukah awareness. given in addition to the ‘Gelt’ coins to enforce his rules. The Greeks A holiday of renewal and tradition. (The following blessing is forbade Jewish practice, but the rededication, Chanukah promotes The Draydel spinner with recited the first time you kindle the faithful Jews defied their ban on Jewish heritage. Children should Hebrew letters on its four sides Menorah.) Torah study, circumcision and light their own Menorahs. is available in metal, plastic or 3) Bo-ruch A-toh Ado-noi E-lo- Shabbat. In the absence of a designed wood in various colors and sizes. hei-nu me-lech Heroic Jews like Chana and Menorah, any metal containers may The Syrian Greeks forbade Torah Ha-olom She-heh-che-yoh-nu her seven sons refused to bow be used, making sure there is no study, but the Jews defied the ban Ve-ki-yi-mo-nu Ve-he-ge-o-nu Liz- to a Greek idol, and the elderly fire hazard. During the Holocaust and learned in hiding. If Greek man Ha-zeh. Matisyahu from Modin and his five and Communist oppression, Jews soldiers discovered a Torah class, Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, sons the ‘’ revolted improvised Menorahs from hollowed the children would disguise their King of the Universe, Who kept us against the oppression and potatoes filled with margarine or studies by pretending they were alive and preserved us, and enabled prevailed over the mighty Greeks. fat. Israeli soldiers have used spent just playing a Draydel game. us to reach this time. Against all odds, a small band of ammunition canisters lined in a row We light an additional candle faithful Jews defeated one of the as their Menorah. each night of Chanukah, leading up mightiest armies on earth, drove On the first night, the flame on HOLIDAY FOODS to the lighting of all eight candles on the Greeks from the land, reclaimed the Menorah’s extreme right is Recalling the Chanukah Oil Sunday night, December 13th. the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and lit. Another flame is added to the Miracle, it is customary to eat fried rededicated it to the service of left of the previous flame each foods: potato pancakes and Earliest Time G-d. succeeding night. The new flame Sufganiot doughnuts. When they sought to light the is lit first, followed by the flame to Dairy specialties recall the for Chanukah Candlelighting Temple’s menorah they found only its right, and so on, until all eight heroine Judith who charmed her (except Friday & Saturday) a single cruse of olive oil that had flames are kindled. way into the enemy camp, and escaped contamination by the The Menorahs are placed at the gained the confidence of Helifornos, is after sunset - 5:03pm

Chabad-Lubavitch Chanukah Calendar

Sunday, Chanukah Playland Thursday, Public Menorah Lighting at Chabad ………….……… 7:00pm December 6 Inflatable Rides, Arts and Crafts and more!...... 2:00pm December 10 Public Menorah Lighting …………..... …… 5:45pm See page 6 for details Friday, Public Menorah Lighting at Chabad …………....…… 3:30pm Monday, Public Menorah Lighting at Chabad …………...... 7:00pm December 11 Light Chanukah Candles before lighting Shabbat candles December 7 Light Shabbat Candles ……………………………... 4:45pm

Tuesday, Public Menorah Lighting at Chabad ……………...... 7:00pm December 8 Special Chanukah Class...... 7:30 pm Saturday, Light Chanukah Candles after ...... 5:43pm December 12 Public Menorah Lighting at Chabad...... 6:30pm. Wednesday, Chanukah Party at the Monte Vista ………….....…… 4:00pm December 9 Public Menorah Lighting at Chabad …………....…… 7:00pm. Sunday, Menorah Lighting and Sushi Bar ……………...... …. 5:00pm. December 13 See page 2 for details

ב''ה

Chabad Lubavitch Center for Jewish Life

TOGETHER WE WILL TRANSFORM THE LANDSCAPE OF JEWISH EL PASO FOREVER!

INDIVIDUAL | COMMUNITY | FAMILY By the Grace of G-d, for three decades a dream has been nurtured and realized in our town Uniting fellow Jews from a plethora of backgrounds and spanning all age groups, Chabad Lubavitch of El Paso has blossomed into a vibrant community With special emphasis on the individual we have evolved into family Your staunch support and friendship has helped us reach this momentous milestone We have a vision Building on the phenomenal success of the past we look forward to an even greater future To erect an edifice that you will be proud to call home A place to gather, discover, pray, laugh and celebrate our glorious heritage Together we will ensure the continued growth and expansion of our oasis community in Southwest Texas

DEDICATION OPPORTUNITIES

Sanctuary $770,000 Phone System $25,000 Social Hall $500,000 Main Entrance Doors $20,000 Judaic Library $250,000 Front Door Mezuza $18,000 TREE of LIFE DEDICATIONS Aron Kodesh $200,000 Foyer Furnishings $15,000 All dedications will be honored on a distinctive Front Lobby $150,000 Hand Washing Station $10,000 Tribute Wall located at the building's main entrance. Children’s Outdoor Playground $150,000 Coat Room $10,000 KETER/CROWN AMUDIM/PILLARS Commercial Kosher Kitchen (Meat) $150,000 Mezuzot (5) $1,800 each $250,000 $100,000 Living Legacy Program for Children $100,000 Commercial Kosher Kitchen (Dairy) $75,000 SYNAGOGUE FURNISHINGS SHOMRIM/GUARDIANS NEDIVIM/BENEFACTORS $72,000 $54,000 Foyer $75,000 Bima - Triple Platform $50,000 Social Hall Furnishings $36,000 Yartzeit Memorial Board (Reserved) $50,000 BONIM/BUILDERS CHAI/SUPPORTERS Rabbi’s Conference room $36,000 Sanctuary Chairs (Reserved) $30,000 $36,000 $18,000 Outdoor Gardens $36,000 Mechitzah $25,000 CHAVERIM/COLLEAGUES YEDIDIM/FRIENDS Conference Room $30,000 Rabbi’s Lecturn $18,000 $10,000 $3,600 Mommy & Me Room $30,000 Siddur Book Case $18,000

Conference Room Furnishings $25,000 Silver Menorah $12,000 TOMCHIM/ADVOCATES $1,000 Security System $25,000 Chazzan’s Lectern $10,000 Audio Visual $25,000 Tallit Rack (Reserved) $5,400

TO BE A PARTNER IN THIS HISTORIC PROJECT, PLEASE CONTACT RABBI YISRAEL GREENBERG, 915-584-8218 • Chabad@chabadelpaso com