SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 Who Will Be Tranquil and Who Will Be Troubled: Confronting the Days of Awe by Marc Ashley

Congregation A Traditional, Egalitarian, and Participatory Conservative Synagogue

ELUL/TISHRI/HESHVANO 5772rZarua NEWSLETTER/VOLUME 24:1 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 Who Will Be Tranquil and Who Will Be Troubled: Confronting the Days of Awe by Marc Ashley

he time spanning Rosh Hashanah fixes the backdrop of God as our “judge to the prayer leader and, as the Kedushah and Yom Kippur is a period of and prosecutor and litigant and witness prayer was about to begin, interrupted by inward reflection, contemplation, and author and sealer and recorder and reciting the newly-minted Unetaneh Tokef and repentance. Yet it is also recounter,” willing and able to hold us prayer. Upon its completion, Rabbi Amnon Tintended to force us to see out- fully accountable for our actions. It then was removed by God from the scene, to side and beyond ourselves, to confront enumerates dispassionately the endless reappear three days later to Kalonymus our human condition and our mortality, to perils and torments we face—potential ben Meshullam Kalonymus (eleventh-cen- provoke consideration of issues that demise by fire, water, warfare, wildlife, tury paytan) to teach him to disseminate inevitably frighten most of us. The High hunger, thirst, earthquake, plague, stran- the poem throughout the Jewish world. Holy Days are known in our tradition as gling, and stoning—generating an Though this quintessential martyr’s story is the “Yamim Noraim,” the Days of Awe or, inescapable sense of irrevocable fate. likely largely fictional, its dramatic appeal perhaps more precisely, the awful (or awe- Our plight often seems arbitrary and has helped ensure that Unetaneh Tokef is ful) days. The name is fitting yet provoca- inevitable. Unetaneh Tokef establishes now read throughout the Ashkenazi world tive, difficult to live up to and embrace. To an unsettling, even traumatic, liturgical on three of the most important days of the ensure that we adopt the proper perspec- setting as we commence the Jewish New Jewish year. tive at this pivotal time in the Jewish cal- Year. Serious confrontation with the But Unetaneh Tokef is not merely a endar, certain prayers in the holiday liturgy harrowing substance of the prayer, and dispiriting tribute to our brutish mortality. seem designed to be discomfiting. The the harsh reality it depicts, is not for the Like the troubling but ennobling tale of High Holy Day prayers were assembled to fainthearted. Rabbi Amnon, Unetaneh Tokef is dually compel us to acknowledge God’s provi- resonant, even paradoxical, filled with both dence in the world and the accompanying he brutal legendary history of futility and hope, fear and inspiration. high-level stakes of life and death. Are we the composition of this piyyut After posing the terrifying—and seemingly up to the daunting existential challenge (liturgical poem) mirrors its vis- unanswerable—question of “Who will live that the mahzor presents? ceral content. The widely known and who will die?” it proclaims resound- The Unetaneh Tokef prayer, recited Tstory of its origins derives from ingly that “repentance, prayer, and charity before the Kedushah during the Musaf the thirteenth-century work, Or Zarua, writ- help the hardship of the decree pass.” service on both Rosh Hashanah and Yom ten by Rabbi Isaac of Vienna, though it Although we are “like shattered pottery, Kippur, is a liturgical centerpiece of the may have arisen earlier in time. A famous like withered grass, and like a faded blos- High Holy Days and a theological linchpin Ashkenazi rabbi, Amnon of Mainz, was som, like a passing shadow, and like a of the mood and mindset this holiday asked by the local bishop to convert to vanishing cloud,” God’s forgiveness, in period is meant to cultivate within us. It Christianity and requested three days to turn, is boundless. The stark contrast evocatively embodies the crucial themes consider the invitation. Consumed by guilt continued on page 15 of life’s tenuousness and the tenacity with for even suggesting to the bishop that he which we must face it. Its opening line would contemplate apostasy, Rabbi SAVE THE DATE pointedly announces the blunt reality we Amnon was captured and repented of any confront during this period: “And let us inkling that he might convert. After offer- Or Zarua Gala acknowledge the power of this day’s ing his tongue as sacrifice for his sin, Monday, June 4, 2012 holiness, for it is full of awe and dread.” Rabbi Amnon’s toes and fingers were Later, the prayer boldly stipulates that instead hacked off as punishment for his Special Guest Chancellor Arnold Eisen even “angels will recoil and be gripped by effrontery. At the next Rosh Hashanah, the 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. shaking and trembling.” It painstakingly mutilated Rabbi Amnon was placed next Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers

1 CONGREGATION OR ZARUA SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 President’s Message Congregation by Diane Okrent

few weeks ago, I Amichai in the 200+ seat Reading Room. OrZarua Aheard a cell phone We will all be together in the auditorium A CONSERVATIVE SYNAGOGUE ringtone that sounded for Ne’ilah at the end of Yom Kippur. FOUNDED 1989 like a shofar. At first, I In addition, for those for whom travel thought it would be cool to 103rd Street may be a challenge, we will 127 East 82nd Street to have that ringtone. hold services on both mornings of Rosh New York, NY 10028 (It is called “Sherwood Hashanah, Kol Nidre, and Yom Kippur in our phone: 212-452-2310 fax: 212-452-2103 Forest” and it is actually building on 82nd Street. These services will www.orzarua.org available on my iPhone.) But the more I be led by Or Zarua members. thought about it, the less appealing it Members are welcome at either loca- DR. HARLAN J. WECHSLER, Rabbi became because I wouldn’t want the tion and at any services throughout the DIANE OKRENT, President sound of the shofar to become mundane. High Holy Days. HENRY GLANTERNIK, Treasurer The sound of the shofar should only be Please remember that the evening HARVEY M. BRENNER, FTA, Executive Director heard on important occasions. The Torah services for Rosh Hashanah will be in our ILANA BURGESS, Youth Education Director reserves the sounding of the shofar for building on East 82nd Street. CHARLES SPIELHOLZ, Newsletter Editor Rosh Hashanah. While the customs of The wonderful holiday season will sounding the shofar have expanded some, continue at the Or Zarua building through we still reserve it for special occasions. the month of October with Sukkot That is why we only hear the shofar during services—and wonderful meals in our OZ Committee Chairs Elul, on Rosh Hashanah, and at the end of roof-top Sukkah—through very festive Yom Kippur. In the words of Maimonides, Simhat Torah services. ADMINISTRATION Sara Stone the message of shofar is, “Awake you I have always thought that the rest of AESTHETICS Aaron Shelden sleepers from your sleep, and you that are the world really follows the Jewish calen- in slumber, rouse yourselves. Consider dar because so many things begin in the ART GALLERY Bobbi Coller your ways, remember God, turn unto Him.” fall along with the Jewish New Year. The BOOK DISCUSSION Reed Schneider As we listen to the shofar during Elul school year starts, as do cultural seasons BUILDING Benjamin Marcus (August 31 to September 28) and put our like the opera and the symphony. After CEMETERY Aliza Kaplan personal spiritual houses in order, so Simhat Torah, Or Zarua’s programming Mort Schwartz must we put our congregational house in season picks up with a very special lec- CRAFTS CLUB Terry Edelstein order. I urge you to renew your member- ture in early November, Shabbat dinners, DEVELOPMENT Andrew Plevin ship in the next week or two so you can and meetings of our various clubs. receive your High Holy Days tickets and The high quality and wide range of our HESED Richard Stadin delight in the mitzvah of hearing the shofar. programs depends on your participation HEVRA KADISHA Vera Silver This year, we will be davening for the and generous support. Please let me know Gerry Solomon first time at The New York Academy of if you would like to sponsor a program. ISRAEL Aliza Kaplan Medicine on Fifth Avenue at 103rd Street. Please join us often throughout the LIBRARY Barry Feldman This is a spacious and gracious venue new year—at services, lectures, dinners, MEMBERSHIP Michael Schwartz that will enhance our High Holy Days expe- and meetings. We may not blow the shofar MINYAN Sheldon Adler riences. The two parallel services will be all the time, but every occasion at Or inspiring and fulfilling. One service will be Zarua is special. PROGRAMMING Karen Kaplan led by Rabbi Wechsler and Congregants I look forward to greeting you at our PUBLIC RELATIONS Aaron Shelden in the 500-seat auditorium. The other High Holy Day services. PURIM SPIEL Arthur Rosenbloom service will be led by Rabbi Ezra Micah L’Shana Tova U’metuka! Bonnie Maslin Tibor Feldman Barbara Sassoon SCHOOL Betsy Dizengoff WELCOMING GUESTS TORAH/HAFTARAH Henry Glanternik It is important for us as a community to make guests and new members at our WEBMASTER Jay Palmer services and kiddushim feel comfortable and welcome. If you are seated next to someone whom you do not know, please reach out and introduce yourself. Making If you are interested in serving on a synagogue this effort is consistent with our culture and will repay dividends. committee, please contact the office for the committee chair’s email address. 2 WWW.ORZARUA.ORG SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 Natan Sharansky to Speak at Or Zarua Thursday, November 10, 7:00 p.m. I S

R atan Sharansky, and sentenced to 13 years in prison. He and became associate editor of the A E L I Soviet refusenik, served his sentence in Moscow, often in Jerusalem Report. In 1995, he created a K N N E

S political prisoner, solitary confinement, and in the Siberian new political party, Yisrael b’Aliyah, S E T human rights activist, gulag. His wife, Avital, who had emigrated designed to help immigrants become member of the Israeli to Israel, campaigned for his release. absorbed into Israel. He became a mem- Knesset, and author, Diplomatic efforts to secure Sharansky’s ber of the Knesset and held several will be speaking at release from prison finally met with suc- different ministry positions. Congregation Or Zarua cess in 1986, with an East-West prisoner In 2006, Sharansky resigned from the on Thursday evening, November 10, 2011. exchange. Knesset and became chairman of the Born Anatoly Borisovich Sharansky in Upon his release from prison, Adelson Institute of the Shalem Center in the Ukraine, he trained as a mathematician Sharansky was met by the Israeli ambas- Jerusalem. In 2009, he was elected chair- at the Institute of Physics and Technology sador at the border between East and man of the Jewish Agency for Israel. in Moscow. Sharansky became involved West Germany and presented with an In addition to his memoir, Fear No with the human rights movement in the Israeli passport issued in the Hebrew Evil, Sharansky has also written The Case Soviet Union and eventually became one name, Natan Sharansky. for Democracy: The Power of Freedom to of the most important and outspoken Sharansky’s experiences as a Overcome Tyranny and Terror as well as dissidents in support of Soviet Jewry. “Prisoner of Zion” are described in his Defending Identity: Its Indispensable Role In 1973 the Soviets refused to grant book, Fear No Evil. in Protecting Democracy. Sharansky an exit visa to Israel. His acti- In Israel, Natan Sharansky became To attend this event, RSVP to the vities as a Soviet refusenik led to his involved with Israeli politics. He was elected OZ office at 212-452-2310, extension 39 arrest in 1977. In 1978, he was convicted president of the Zionist Forum in 1988 by Monday, November 7.

In this Issue WELCOME BACK KIDDUSH LUNCH Confronting the Days of Awe...... 1 Two Levels of Kiddush Sponsorship ...... 9 Saturday, September 10 President’s Message ...... 2 The David Project ...... 9 Natan Sharansky to Speak at Or Zarua....3 Met Council Chesed Award ...... 9 elcome the month of Elul by feed- Welcome Back Kiddush Lunch...... 3 Monthly Calendars ...... 10 Wing your body and your soul! On Simhat Torah Kiddush Lunch ...... 3 Images of Mom ...... 12 September 10, Or Zarua will sponsor a High Holy Days 5772/2011...... 4 Visit www.orzarua.org...... 12 Kiddush lunch after Shabbat services. This event will provide a wonderful Congregational Services ...... 4 Choosing Our Next Rabbi...... 13 opportunity to greet new and prospec- Or Zarua Youth Services...... 5 Rabbi Wechsler on Sirius XM Radio...... 13 tive members as well as Congregants Rabbi David Silber Lecture ...... 5 Or Zarua Minyan...... 13 returning from their summer travels. Selihot...... 5 Programs & Sponsorship Opportunities .13 Please invite friends who may be inter- Call for Shofar Blowers...... 5 Tahara Training at Or Zarua ...... 14 ested in joining Or Zarua. No reserva- Sukkot 5772/2011 ...... 6 Hesed Event and Programs...... 14 tions are required. Sukkot Services...... 6 Book Discussions...... 15 Eating in the Sukkah...... 6 Etrogim and Lulavim ...... 6 Crafts Club ...... 15 Sleep in the Sukkah ...... 6 OZ Welcomes Deborah Klee Wenger...... 16 SIMHAT TORAH Sushi in the Sukkah ...... 7 Bagels, Babka, and Balabustas ...... 16 KIDDUSH LUNCH Shabbat Dinner with Family & Friends .....7 NAASE Network Saves OZ Thousands ....17 Friday, October 21 OZ Friday Preschool Program...... 8 Talmud Class...... 17 Immediately following services Hebrew and Jewish Studies ...... 8 Introducing Joseph Schwartz...... 17 Please join us as we approach the end OZ Youth Art Calendar...... 8 Or Zarua Cemetery ...... 17 of a meaningful holiday season. Family and Youth Activities...... 8 Or Zarua Community...... 18 No reservation is required. Hebrew School Calendar ...... 8 September/October Checklist ...... 20 3 CONGREGATION OR ZARUA SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 HIGH HOLY DAY High Holy Days 5772/2011 SERVICES 5772/2011 New Locations for a New Year Wednesday, September 28 Erev Rosh Hashanah ith the arrival of the month space for all of Or Zarua’s requirements, Evening 6:15 p.m.–7:15 p.m. of Elul, our thoughts begin services will also be held at the syna- Congregation Or Zarua to turn to the ending of gogue building to accommodate those one year and the begin- who may face challenges in traveling to Thursday, September 29 ning of the next. We Fifth Avenue and 103rd Street. These First Day Rosh Hashanah W reflect on the events of the past year and services will be led by Congregants and Morning 8:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. consider what the New Year will bring. For our rabbinic intern, Joseph Schwartz. NY Academy of Medicine & Or Zarua Congregation Or Zarua, one change for the Since space in our sanctuary is limited, Tashlikh 5:35 p.m.–6:05 p.m. High Holy Days will be our move from the please use the High Holy Day ticket order Central Park, south end of reservoir Ramaz Upper School to the New York form you received in the mail to inform Evening 6:35 p.m.–7:30 p.m. Academy of Medicine (NYAM), located on the synagogue office if you plan to attend Congregation Or Zarua Fifth Avenue at 103rd Street. services at Congregation Or Zarua rather This change became necessary when than the NY Academy of Medicine. Friday, September 30 we were informed in mid-June that the Two parallel High Holy Day services Second Day Rosh Hashanah Ramaz Upper School would not be avail- will be provided at the NYAM. One set Morning 8:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. able to us. Or Zarua immediately initiated of services, to be led by Rabbi Harlan NY Academy of Medicine & Or Zarua an intensive search for an appropriate Wechsler and Congregants, will be held in location on the Upper East Side that Hosack Hall, a 500-seat auditorium with Minhah/ 6:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. resulted in the choice of the NYAM as fixed theater-style seating. The other set, Kabbalat Shabbat Or Zarua’s new location for High Holy Day to be led by Rabbi Ezra Micah Amichai, Congregation Or Zarua services. The NYAM is housed in an out- will take place in the NYAM’s magnificent Saturday, October 1 standing, early Romanesque-style building Library Reading Room, with chairs arranged from 1926. It affords us a large facility on three sides around a central bimah. Shabbat Shuvah described by our president, Diane Okrent, Bringing his extraordinary ruah from Shaharit 9:00 a.m. as “spacious and gracious.” Jerusalem, Rabbi Amichai will conduct full Congregation Or Zarua However, in a first for Or Zarua, we services during which he will teach and Friday, October 7 will also be using our synagogue building provide commentary. These services will for High Holy Day services. The location of be somewhat less formal than those in Erev Yom Kippur each of the services is listed in the High the auditorium and will appeal to those Minhah 1:15 p.m.–1:40 p.m. Holy Day Services schedule shown at left who enjoyed our Tefilat Haverim services Congregation Or Zarua and is also described below. Please in the Ramaz Chapel in previous years. Kol Nidre 6:15 p.m.–8:45 p.m. become familiar with Or Zarua’s new High There will be parallel services at the NY Academy of Medicine & Or Zarua Holy Day service arrangements and be NYAM for both days of Rosh Hashanah, sure to keep the schedule of the service Kol Nidre, and on Yom Kippur through Saturday, October 8 locations handy. Yizkor. After Yizkor, all those attending Yom Kippur/Yizkor Evening services for Rosh Hashanah services at the NYAM will come together Services 9:00 a.m.–7:17 p.m. on Wednesday, September 28 and in Hosack Hall as we complete the Yom NY Academy of Medicine & Or Zarua Thursday, September 29 will be held in Kippur service through Ne’ilah. our synagogue building at 127 East 82nd All Or Zarua Youth services will be G Service Locations G Street, between Lexington and Park held at the NYAM. Several large rooms Congregation Or Zarua Avenues. Our synagogue building will be will be available; room assignments will 127 East 82 Street the only location of services for both be posted at the NYAM. There will be no (between Lexington and Park Avenues) evenings of Rosh Hashanah. youth services at our synagogue building. NY Academy of Medicine Services for the first and second days While the location at the NYAM is 1216 Fifth Avenue at 103 Street of Rosh Hashanah (beginning at 8:30 a.m. new, what remains the same is our com- (entrance on 103 Street, just east Thursday and Friday, September 29 and munity as well as the nature and quality of Fifth Avenue) 30), Kol Nidre (beginning at 6:15 p.m., of our services. Francine Klagsbrun will Please use the High Holy Day ticket order Friday, October 7) and Yom Kippur Day present a discussion on a timely, thought- form you received in the mail to inform (beginning at 9:00 a.m., Saturday, October provoking topic in the late afternoon of the synagogue office if you plan to attend 8) will be held simultaneously at the NYAM Yom Kippur day. As always, Ne’ilah, the services at Congregation Or Zarua rather and at Or Zarua’s synagogue building. concluding service of Yom Kippur, with all than the NY Academy of Medicine. Although the NYAM provides ample continued on page 5

4 WWW.ORZARUA.ORG SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

High Holy Days 5772/2011 same ticket will be honored at both loca- continued from page 4 tions. Bring your Kol Nidre Appeal Card OR ZARUA YOUTH (one per household) with you to Kol Nidre. HIGH HOLY DAY of us gathered together, will be conducted A complete listing of service times and SERVICES 5772/2011 by Rabbi Wechsler. We hope that our wor- locations will be printed on the reverse Rosh Hashanah ship is renewed, enhanced and elevated in side of your admission ticket. Be sure to this lovely setting. allow extra time for security checks when Thursday, September 29 (First Day) At the conclusion of Kol Nidre at the arriving at either location. And please 10:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. make sure that your tallit bag is labeled, NYAM there will be large groups of people Friday, September 30 (Second Day) especially if you plan on leaving it for any walking down Fifth Avenue extending the 10:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. communal experience. extended time at any service. May we and the entire House of Israel 2–4 years old: 2nd Floor As in the past, bring your admission (must be accompanied by an adult) be remembered and sealed in the Book of tickets to all services, whether at the Kindergarten–Grade 2: 2nd Floor life, blessing, sustenance and peace. NYAM or our synagogue building. The Grades 3–5: 2nd Floor Grades 6 and older: 1st Floor High School students are encouraged to attend the adult service. Rabbi David Silber Lecture Kol Nidre “Yom Kippur and Purim” on Tuesday, October 4 Friday, October 7 6:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m. ur annual study key part of the High Holy Days service. Grades 1–3: 2nd Floor Osession with Rabbi The Drisha Institute, opened in 1979, Grades 4–6 and older: 2nd Floor David Silber will be held offers an advanced program of Jewish High School students are encouraged at 8:00 p.m. on Tues- studies for women, providing women full to attend the adult service. day, October 4. The title access to classical texts of the Jewish tra- Yom Kippur of Rabbi Silber’s discus- dition and preparing women for leadership sion will be “Yom positions in Jewish education. A number of Saturday, October 8 Kippur and Purim.” Or Zarua members have studied at Drisha. 11:15 a.m.–1:15 p.m. Lectures by Rabbi Silber, founder and For the past several years, Drisha has also 2–4 years old: 2nd Floor dean of the Drisha Institute for Jewish provided increasing opportunities for men. (must be accompanied by an adult) Education, have become a staple of Rabbi Silber also lectures and teaches Kindergarten–Grade 2: 2nd Floor Or Zarua’s schedule of events in connec- in other venues. For 13 years he conducted Grades 3–5: 2nd Floor tion with the High Holy Days. Based on a weekly Bible class at a midtown law Grades 6 and older: 1st Floor his past talks, we can count on an inter- ﬁrm. High School students are encouraged esting and thought-provoking presentation We hope to see everyone at Rabbi to attend the adult service. which will enrich our understanding of a Silber’s presentation. A playroom will be open during all services for very young children who are accompanied and supervised by an adult. Children may not be left SELIHOT Call for alone in this room. Saturday, September 24 G Service Location G 8:00 p.m. Shofar Blowers All Or Zarua Youth High Holy Day Sinful Desserts services will be held at: Join us for an evening of community as r Zarua needs shofar blowers NY Academy of Medicine we usher in the Yamim Noraim with a for each morning minyan 1216 Fifth Avenue at 103 Street dessert reception. from Wednesday, August 31, (entrance on 103 Street, just east 9:15 p.m. through Tuesday, September of Fifth Avenue) Study O27. If you would like to learn to blow the shofar, Or Zarua will teach Rabbi Wechsler will teach “Mystical you. If you can play a brass or woodwind Repentance in the Writings of Rav instrument, you have a great start. Kook.” His source is Rav Kook’s Lights ADDITIONAL HIGH HOLY DAY TICKETS If not, blowing the shofar is easy to learn. of Repentance. are $360 each. To order, contact Please contact Richard Stadin at Luisa Paulino at [email protected] 10:00 p.m. [email protected] or 212-879-0448. or 212-452-2310, extension 10. Selihot Services

5 CONGREGATION OR ZARUA SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 Eating in the Sukkah SUKKOT SERVICES Reserved dinner, free kiddush lunches, and “bring your own” events 5772/2011 Wednesday, October 12

t is a mitzvah to eat in the sukkah “Bring Your Own” Dinner Erev Sukkot during the Festival of Sukkot. Or Zarua Friday, October 14 Evening 6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. is offering Congregants several oppor- You bring dinner and all service items, Thursday, October 13 tunities to have lunch or dinner in the including beverages, plates, cups, nap- First Day Sukkot sukkah on the roof of our building. kins, and utensils. All food brought to the I Morning 9:00 a.m.–12:15 p.m. sukkah must be kosher. Congregants are Dinner on Erev Sukkot Evening 6:15 p.m.–7:15 p.m. Wednesday, October 12 asked to call the Or Zarua office in 7:15 p.m. promptly advance if they plan to eat in the sukkah. Friday, October 14 Please include the number of people in This meal requires reservations. Second Day Sukkot your group when you make the reservation $40 for adults, Morning 9:00 a.m.–12:15 p.m. for “Bring Your Own” Dinner. $20 for children ages 5 to 12, Minhah/ 6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. If you wish to dine in the sukkah at no charge for children under 5. Kabbalat Shabbat RSVP by Tuesday, October 4 times other than those listed above, please notify the synagogue office. We Saturday, October 15 Three Free Enhanced Kiddush Lunches ask that you conclude your evening meal Shabbat Hol Hamoed Thursday, October 13 by 9:00 p.m. To make reservations for Shaharit 8:45 a.m. Friday, October 14 any event, call the synagogue office at Saturday, October 15 212-452-2310, extension 39, or email Wednesday, October 19 Immediately after services Deborah Wenger at [email protected]. No reservation required for free lunches. Hoshana Rabbah Morning 7:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m. Erev Shemini Atzeret ETROGIM AND LULAVIM FOR SUKKOT Evening 5:53 p.m.–6:53 p.m. Thursday, October 20 he joyous holiday of Sukkot begins Wednesday evening, October 12. Shemini Atzeret/Yizkor Congregation Or Zarua will again arrange for the purchase of etrogim and Morning 9:00 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Tlulavim. All orders are delivered in complete sets: etrog in a box, lulav with Erev Simhat Torah hadassim and aravot in a bag. Evening 6:05 p.m.–7:35 p.m.

Three different sets, each certiﬁed for use on Sukkot, are available: Friday, October 21 G Special Sets (Aleph), $90.00 each Simhat Torah G Choice Sets (Bet), $80.00 each Morning 9:00 a.m.–12:15 p.m. G Standard Sets (Gimmel), $70.00 each Minhah/ 5:50 p.m.–6:50 p.m. G Lulav carrying case, $12.50 each Kabbalat Shabbat

If you wish to purchase a set, contact Deborah Wenger at 212-452-2310, extension 12 or [email protected] by noon on Friday, September 16. We cannot accept any orders without payment. DINNER IN Sets will be available for pick up in Or Zarua’s 5th ﬂoor lobby from 9:00 a.m. THE OZ SUKKAH Monday, October 10, until 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 12. Erev Sukkot, Wednesday, October 12 Services begin at 6:00 p.m. SLEEP IN THE SUKKAH Dinner promptly at 7:15 p.m. Saturday, October 15 Please make dinner reservations by 5:00 p.m. on ll Or Zarua children are invited to participate in the mitzvah of sleeping in the WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5 sukkah starting after Shabbat at 7:45 p.m. A pizza dinner will be served, at 212-452-2310, ext. 39 Afollowed by a “make your own ice cream sundae” for dessert. There will also or www.orzarua.org be ping-pong, pool, foos ball, board games, and a movie. $40 adults; $20 children ages 5-12; RSVP to Ilana Burgess at [email protected] by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, October 10. No charge for children under 5

6 WWW.ORZARUA.ORG SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

Sushi in the Sukkah SHABBAT DINNER OZ’s young professionals to gather on Sunday, October 16 WITH FAMILY D

A AND FRIENDS ugels, briskets, and harvest R A

S vegetables might be a more H A P I R

familiar cast of characters at a O Friday, November 11 traditional Sukkot meal, but immediately following services convention was shaken last K Join the OZ community for a special year when Or Zarua hosted its ﬁrst annual “Sushi in the Sukkah” event. More than Kabbalat Shabbat service led by 30 young members and their friends gath- Sarah Klagsbrun with traditional ered in the rooftop sukkah on a beautiful Camp Ramah tunes, followed by Sunday afternoon. Attendees enjoyed a festive meal with singing. Guests pleasant conversation and munched on and non-members are welcome. various culinary treats while lounging in Or Zarua young professionals (from left): the shade of the schach. William Zaientz, Melissa Kashan Lader, Babysitting and children’s activities Although the majority of participants and Keely Blumentritt. will be provided. were Or Zarua members, many partici- As such, we are looking forward to pants were ﬁrst-time visitors to the syna- our second annual “Sushi in the Sukkah” Please make dinner reservations by gogue. Several of these people have since event on Sunday, October 16 at 3:00 p.m. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 7 rejoined our community for other events Please spread the word and help us make at 212-452-2310, ext. 39 and holiday celebrations. We hope to this year’s event as successful as the or www.orzarua.org further welcome the young Jewish profes- last! If you have any questions, please sionals of the Upper East Side to Or Zarua, feel free to email Ariella Friedman at $30 adults; $10 children ages 5-12; and make our synagogue known as a [email protected]. children under 5, no charge vibrant center among this constituency. —ARIELLE FRIEDMAN D A R A

S H A P I R O

Last year's “Sushi in the Sukkah” event for young OZ professionals was attended by more than 30 members and their friends.

7 CONGREGATION OR ZARUA SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 Or Zarua’s Friday Preschool Program Preparing toddlers for Shabbat

r Zarua’s Friday Preschool opportunity to lead the service. vocabulary associated with Shabbat. Program is designed to teach Children will also learn about Shabbat Classes begin on Friday, October 28 toddlers about Shabbat. The through art by making their own candles, at 10:00 a.m. The cost for the 10-session children will learn to welcome challah covers, kiddush cups, and other program is $100 for members of Or Zarua OShabbat by singing songs, items. and $150 for non-members. saying the blessings over Shabbat can- In addition, children will be introduced Space is limited, so please reserve dles, reciting the kiddush blessing over to modern Hebrew. They will hear and early. For more information, contact Ilana grape juice, and chanting Hamotzi. learn common Hebrew words that describe Burgess at 212-452-2310, extension 15 Each child in the program will have an classroom activities as well as Hebrew or [email protected]. OZ YOUTH ART CALENDAR Hebrew and Jewish Studies For post-Bar/Bat Mitzvah students Fundraiser for Or Zarua’s Youth Education Department tarting this fall (5772), Or The class will meet from 6:00 to 8:00 Zarua will offer a class for p.m. on Mondays beginning September he Or Zarua Youth Department post-Bar/Bat Mitzvah students 12. After a pizza dinner at 6:00 p.m., a has produced a calendar featur- who are looking to continue 45-minute Ulpan, to be taught by Ilana Ting art work by student-aged their Jewish education while Burgess, will encourage students to hone members of the Or Zarua community. S developing social relationships with like- their Hebrew skills and speak the lan- Each month of the calendar features minded kids. The class will offer the stu- guage as it is used daily in Israeli life. art work from a different young dents two major opportunities. The ﬁrst Students will then engage in the study of member of Congregation Or Zarua. will be an environment to advance their Torah or Talmud for 45 minutes with OZ’s Copies of the calendar were mailed to ability to use conversational Hebrew in the rabbinic intern, Joseph Schwartz. For Congregants during the summer in an form of an Ulpan. The second will be the further information, please contact Ilana effort to raise funds for the Or Zarua chance to build upon their knowledge of Burgess at 212-452-2310, extension 15, Youth Education Department. We hope Torah or Talmud. or email [email protected]. you are enjoying the calendar and will show your support by sending a donation to the Or Zarua ofﬁce. Family and Youth Activities

HEBREW SCHOOL CALENDAR September 2011 FREE KIDDUSH LUNCH IN THE SUKKAH See page 6 for details. Monday, September 12 • 4:00 p.m. September 2011 FIRST DAY OF HEBREW SCHOOL Friday, October 14 • after services Mon 12 First day of classes “BRING YOUR OWN” SUKKOT DINNER Wed 28 Erev Rosh Hashanah October 2011 See page 6 for details. (no classes) Monday, October 3 • 6:30 p.m. Saturday, October 15 • 7:45 p.m. Thu 29 Rosh Hashanah (no classes) THE DAVID PROJECT SEMINAR SLEEP IN THE SUKKAH October 2011 See page 9 for details. RSVP required. See page 6 for details. Tuesday, October 11 • 4:00 p.m. Mon 10 Columbus Day (no classes) Friday, October 21 • 12:30 p.m. SUKKAH DECORATING Tue 11 Sukkah Decorating SIMHAT TORAH KIDDUSH LUNCH All are invited. (no classes) See page 3 for details. Wed 12 Erev Sukkot (no classes) Wednesday, October 12 • after services November 2011 Thu 13 Sukkot (no classes) DINNER IN THE OZ SUKKAH Wed 19 Erev Shemini Atzeret RSVP required. See page 6 for details. Friday, November 11 • after services SHABBAT DINNER (no classes) Thursday, October 13 • 12:30 p.m. WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS Thu 20 Shemini Atzeret (no classes) Friday, October 14 • 12:30 p.m. RSVP required. See page 7 for details. Saturday, October 15 • 12:30 p.m. 8 WWW.ORZARUA.ORG SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 Two Levels of Kiddush Sponsorship Enhanced kiddush now available

y popular demand, beginning with nut-free and pareve, elegantly arranged on ing for a variety of simhas and kiddushim Shabbat on September 3, new platters by the bakery staff, and delivered during the year. levels of Shabbat kiddush spon- fresh to our door. The cost of sponsoring If you’re interested in sponsoring a sorship will take effect. There an enhanced kiddush will be $238. kiddush, please contact the main ofﬁce to Bwill be two types of kiddush: The supplier of the basic kiddush will reserve your date. It is a wonderful way basic and enhanced. remain Gertel’s of Brooklyn. The cost of to mark a special occasion, honor the The enhanced kiddush will feature a the basic kiddush will be $118. achievements of a loved one or remember new bakery for Or Zarua, Butterﬂake of With two levels of kiddush, Or Zarua the passing of a beloved friend or family Teaneck, N.J. All enhanced pastries will be will have the best of both worlds in provid- member.

THE DAVID PROJECT Met Council Chesed Award Congregation Or Zarua honored for $25,000 contribution A Discussion About Israel

Monday, October 3, 6:30 p.m. M E T

C O

ewish students on college campuses U N C I and in high schools frequently L Jencounter inaccurate and skewed characterizations of Israel. The David Project will be coming to Or Zarua on Monday, October 3, at 6:30 p.m. to provide an educational seminar about Israel for our middle school, high school, and college students. The David Project was formed in 2002 in response to perceived hostility towards Israel on college campuses and has evolved into an educational organization dedicated to giving students the knowledge to understand the complexities of the Arab-Israeli conﬂict, to defend their support for Israel, and to advocate for Israel. This is an excellent opportunity for learning, discussion, and debate. All members of the Congregation Congregation Or Zarua received the Chesed Award from The Metropolitan Council on and their friends, including adults, are Jewish Poverty for its generous $25,000 contribution to the organization. The funds also welcome to attend this discussion. for this gift were raised at OZ’s Annual Super Bowl Party. Pictured are Rabbi Harlan Wechsler (left), and Congregants Linda Spitzer and Sheldon Adler accepting the award.

STUDENT HELP NEEDED SUKKAH DECORATING Tuesday, October 11, 4:00 p.m. FOR OR ZARUA YOUTH SERVICES Everyone is invited join in the fun ost-Bar/Bat Mitzvah students are needed to read Torah and Haftorah for the making ornaments and decorations for POr Zarua Youth High Holy Days services. High school students are also asked to Or Zarua’s rooftop Sukkah. help with the services. If you are interested in participating, contact Ilana Burgess at [email protected] or call the synagogue ofﬁce at 212-452-2310, extension 39.

9 127 East 82nd Street G G September 2011 Elul/Tishri 5772 OrZarua New York, NY 10028 212-452-2310 SUNDA Y MONDA Y TUESDA Y WEDNESDA Y THURSDA Y FRIDA Y SATURDA Y

1 G 2 Elul 2 G 3 3 G 4 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit 6:15 pm Minhah/Kabbalat Shoftim Shabbat 7:10 pm Candlelighting

4 G 5 5 G 6 6 G 7 7 G 8 8 G 9 9 G 10 10 G 11 8:45 am Sunday Minyan Labor Day 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit 8:45 am Minyan 7:00 pm Search 6:15 pm Minhah/Kabbalat Ki Tetze Ofﬁce closed Committee Discussion Shabbat Welcome Back Kiddush Group 6:58 pm Candlelighting

11 G 12 12 G 13 13 G 14 14 G 15 15 G 16 16 G 17 17 G 18 8:45 am Sunday Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit 7:00 pm Search Hebrew School begins 6:15 pm Minhah/Kabbalat Ki Tavo Committee Discussion 7:00 pm Search Shabbat Bar Mitzvah of Group Committee Discussion 6:46 pm Candlelighting Eric Greenstein Group

18 G 19 19 G 20 20 G 21 21 G 22 22 G 23 23 G 24 24 G 25 8:45 am Sunday Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit 9:30 am Tahara Training 7:00 pm Search 7:00 pm Search 6:15 pm Minhah/Kabbalat Nitzavim/Vayelech with Rabbi Zohn Committee Discussion Committee Discussion Shabbat 8:00 pm Sinful Desserts 7:30 pm Book Discussion Group Group 6:35 pm Candlelighting 9:15 pm Study with Rabbi Wechsler 10:00 pm Selihot

25 G 26 26 G 27 27 G 28 28 G 29 29 G 1 Tishri 30 G 2 8:45 am Selihot and 7:00 am Selihot and 7:00 am Selihot and Erev Rosh Hashanah Rosh Hashanah I Rosh Hashanah II Minyan Minyan Minyan 7:00 am Selihot and 8:30 am Shaharit 8:30 am Shaharit (NYAM and Or Zarua) Minyan 5:35 pm Tashlikh (NYAM and Or Zarua) 6:15 pm Minhah/Ma’ariv (Central Park) 6:30 pm Minhah/Kabbalat (Or Zarua) 6:35 pm Minhah/Ma’ariv Shabbat (Or Zarua) 6:26 pm Candlelighting (Or Zarua) 6:23 pm Candlelighting 7:24 pm Candlelighting 127 East 82nd Street G G October 2011 Tishri/Heshvan 5772 OrZarua New York, NY 10028 212-452-2310 SUNDA Y MONDA Y TUESDA Y WEDNESDA Y THURSDA Y FRIDA Y SATURDA Y

1 G 3 Tishri Shabbat Shuvah 9:00 am Shaharit Ha’azinu

2 G 4 Tishri 3 G 5 4 G 6 5 G 7 6 G 8 7 G 9 8 G 10 Fast of Gedaliah 7:00 am Selihot and 7:00 am Selihot and 7:00 am Selihot and 7:00 am Selihot and Erev Yom Kippur Yom Kippur/Yizkor 8:45 am Sunday Minyan Minyan Minyan Minyan Minyan 7:00 am Selihot and 9:00 am – 7:17 pm 6:30 pm The David Project 8:00 pm Rabbi Silber Minyan Yom Kippur Services 1:15 pm Minhah (Or Zarua) Lecture Yizkor 6:15 pm Kol Nidre (NYAM and Or Zarua) (NYAM and Or Zarua) 6:11 pm Candlelighting

9 G 11 10 G 12 11 G 13 12 G 14 13 G 15 14 G 16 15 G 17 8:45 am Sunday Minyan Columbus Day 7:15 am Minyan Erev Sukkot Sukkot First Day Sukkot Second Day Shabbat Hol Hamoed 7:15 am Minyan 4:00 pm Sukkah 7:15 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit 9:00 am Shaharit 8:45 am Shaharit Hebrew School closed Decorating Hebrew School closed 12:30 pm Kiddush Lunch 12:30 pm Kiddush Lunch 12:30 pm Kiddush Lunch 6:00 pm Minhah/Kabbalat 6:00 pm Minhah/Ma’ariv 6:15 pm Minhah/Ma’ariv 7:45 pm Hebrew School Shabbat 6:03 pm Candlelighting 7:00 pm Candlelighting Sleep in the Sukkah 6:00pm Candlelighting 7:15 pm Dinner in Sukkah “Bring Your Own” Dinner

16 G 18 17 G 19 18 G 20 19 G 21 20 G 22 21 G 23 22 G 24 Hol Hamoed 4 Hol Hamoed 5 Hol Hamoed 6 Hoshanah Rabbah Shemini Atzeret Simhat Torah 9:00 am Shaharit 8:45 am Sunday Minyan 7:00 am Minyan 7:00 am Minyan 7:00 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit 9:00 am Shaharit Bereshit 3:00 pm Sushi in 7:00 pm Context: Kraemer Erev Shemini Atzeret Yizkor Simhat Torah Kiddush Bar Mitzvah of Lunch the Sukkah for Young 5:53 pm Minhah/Ma’ariv Erev Simhat Torah Jacob Cohen 5:50 pm Minhah/Kabbalat Professionals 5:53 pm Candlelighting 6:05 pm Minhah/Ma’ariv Shabbat 6:52 pm Candlelighting 5:50 pm Candlelighting

23 G 25 24 G 26 25 G 27 26 G 28 27 G 29 28 G 30 29 G 1 Heshvan 8:45 am Sunday Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan 7:15 am Minyan Rosh Hodesh Heshvan I Rosh Hodesh Heshvan II 10:15 am Crafts Club 7:00 pm Context: Kraemer 7:00 am Minyan 9:00 am Shaharit 7:00 pm Context: Gampel 5:40 pm Candlelighting, Noah 30 G 2 31 G 3 Minhah/Kabbalat Shabbat Bar Mitzvah of 8:45 am Sunday Minyan 7:15 am Minyan Gabriel Leavy Sobell CONGREGATION OR ZARUA SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 Images of Mom by Arthur H. Rosenbloom

n this season of the year, during which Mom left behind a series of con- mournful place, but rather one from which we contemplate our past and ponder stituents, each blessed by the warmth of it was possible to reconnect with the past, our future, my thoughts inevitably turn her presence. Some are captured in a as part of an oral history of her family and to those who helped make my life what snapshot of her early years in Asbury Park that of my Dad. “Do you remember Uncle Iit is but whose presence is only a featuring Mom jauntily perched on the Aaron with his soulful eyes?” she’d say. memory, in this case, my Mom. hood of a second-hand Whippet automo- “Oh, there’s Tante Sarah with the low, grav- The memories return as snapshots, bile, among friends and relatives now long elly voice.” “Here’s your Grandpa Harry’s some real and taken from the photo gone. And there was Esther Rosenbloom tombstone, Arthur.” She’d recall when my albums she and my Dad lovingly filled over of the bandage rolling brigade at the paternal grandmother would prostrate her- the years, now among my most prized Flatbush Jewish Center, serving the GIs in self on his grave, urging him to “bets ach possessions, and some I have conjured World War II, not to mention her forays to oys fur de kinder” (pray for the children), from my own recollections. Shmulke Bernstein’s on the Lower East sure in her conviction that he stood close I recall her on the dance floor with my Side, from which she sent salamis to her to the divine intercessor. “Hey, Art, check Dad. No candidates for “Dancing With The many GI nephews. Family lore has it that out old Mr. Scavron, your grandfather’s Stars,” their style was that of the under- one of Mom’s salamis, frozen by the cold pinochle buddy,” she’d say. Mom would stated elegance in the three-quarter time and delivered to my cousin Ruby’s foxhole often point to the spot that now marks her of a slow waltz. I also recall her regaling in the Battle of the Bulge during the frigid grave, facing the road beyond which lie the family and friends as she dipped into her winter of 1944, stopped a bullet intended graves of her family and, behind, those of rich storehouse of Yiddish humor. for his head. the Rosenbloom family into which she’d In our own interactions, one of my married. “How do you like my orchestra fondest images is of Mom and me doing nd then there were the Great seat?” she’d say. the dishes in the pre-dishwasher days of Neck years—the fifth-row seats As I write these lines, I recall the mem- World War II Brooklyn, performing World in Temple Israel, occupied for ory of one who exhibited “derech eretz” War I ballads and then contemporaneous the better part of 38 years, (how (“good character” is one of its several standards in two-part harmony. Small Awise she was to have insisted meanings) to her elders, her peers, and her wonder that I embraced vocal music. that the rose-colored curtains on the sanc- successors and who, in her later years, I vividly recall Mom pounding away at tuary windows be lined to prevent the sun taught a lesson on how to deal with a debil- her ancient Smith-Corona, or talking on the from fading them), the American flag faith- itating physical handicap with quiet grace. telephone or in person to friends and fami- fully planted on our lawn on the 4th of July, Time has taught me that a huge part ly across the miles and the generations— and the candies she lovingly set aside for of our understanding of the world at large, there in body or in spirit—to celebrate a the Halloween trick or treaters. ourselves, and our loved ones comes simhah, commiserate on a tragedy, or dis- Mom taught me something about about not so much as a result of the great pense some old-fashioned advice to those cemeteries, too. Not the big impersonal life-cycle events we celebrate, but rather seeking it. Aunt Esther—or Nanny Esther— ones, but the tiny Chesed Shel Ames in the nickel-and-dime moments we have the dutiful chronicler of birthdays, anniver- cemetery in Neptune, New Jersey, by the shared with our nearest and dearest, day- saries, unveilings, and yahrzeit days, was a Asbury Park border (Murray Rosenbloom, by-day, month-by-month, and year-by-year. visible presence to the legions who com- founding treasurer). For Mom, and now for I reflect on the images of those moments prised our extended family. me and my kids, the cemetery was not a with Mom—and I smile. VISIT WWW.ORZARUA.ORG Explore Or Zarua’s past, present, and future

ave you missed an Or Zarua lecture, class or discussion? Ruth R. Wisse, David Roskies, and James Kugel, and Rabbis Would you like to hear a presentation a second time? David Silber and Harlan Wechsler. You can even listen to the HOr Zarua’s website, www.orzarua.org, contains recordings Or Zarua Klezmer Band. of many of the presentations given by guest speakers and There are many other resources on the Or Zarua website, teachers at the synagogue. including upcoming events, service schedules, current art For example, by clicking on the drop-down menu titled gallery shows, minyan sign-up and much more. So take a “Learning” and choosing “Adult Study” followed by “Recorded moment to explore www.orzarua.org and see what has been, Talks” you will arrive at a webpage with lectures by Professors is currently, and will be happening at OZ!

12 WWW.ORZARUA.ORG SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 Choosing Our Next Rabbi RABBI WECHSLER by the Rabbinical Search Committee TEACHES ON SIRIUS XM RADIO n order to select the right person to Discussion Group meetings that have Sundays at 3 a.m, 5 a.m. be the next rabbi of Congregation been scheduled on the following dates: and 7 a.m. Or Zarua, the Rabbinical Search Com- Thursday, September 8; Sunday, mittee needs to define the characteris- September 11; Monday, September 12; Itics of our shul and the expectations Tuesday, September 20 and Wednesday, we, as a community, will have of the per- September 21. All five meetings will be son selected for the position. Toward this identical in format and led by Annie goal, the Search Committee will be prepar- Marks, a professional facilitator. It does ing a “curriculum vitae” of our synagogue not matter which meeting you attend, but community and a description of the quali- please attend only one. ties desired from potential candidates. Invitations to these meetings were abbi Wechsler can be heard on The information required to complete sent to members this summer. If you SiriusXM Stars Channel three times these two tasks will be garnered from the have not already reserved a spot in a R each Sunday. Subscribers to SiriusXM members of our Congregation using Facilitated Discussion Group, please Satellite Radio can access the program, Facilitated Discussion Groups. contact Deborah Wenger in the Or Zarua “Rabbi Wechsler Teaches” on Channel The Facilitated Discussion Groups will office at 212-452-2310, extension 12 107. Non-subscribers to SiriusXM meet in multiple, small gatherings during or [email protected]. It is not too late Radio can obtain a free, three-day trial the month of September. Every person to sign up, but you will need to contact at www.siriusxm.com. who attends these meetings will have the the office immediately. opportunity to express his or her views The meetings will start promptly at regarding the defining characteristics of 7:00 p.m. and will conclude about 9:00 both our synagogue and the next rabbi. p.m. Before the meeting begins, a light Or Zarua Minyan The information obtained during the snack will be served. We invite both hus- To be part of the OZ minyan on any given Facilitated Discussion Groups will be bands and wives to attend as we recog- morning, all you need to do is attend; collected and organized so that it can be nize that each has his or her own opinion. minyan times are listed on the calendar disseminated to prospective rabbinical You may attend the same night as your pages. To help strengthen the Or Zarua candidates. Points of view expressed by spouse or come separately. minyan, please sign up for a day or two individual members of the Congregation We held one meeting over the sum- each month by contacting Sheldon Adler will be kept anonymous. mer for members of the Board and Search at [email protected]. You may The Search Committee encourages Committee. Everyone had a very positive, also sign up online at www.orzarua.org every member of the Congregation to fun experience. We look forward to hearing by choosing “Daily Minyan” under the participate in one of the five Facilitated from you. “Prayer” drop-down menu.

Programs and Sponsorship Opportunities

September 10 October 21 March 8 WELCOME BACK KIDDUSH, $2,500 SIMHAT TORAH KIDDUSH, $1,000 PURIM SPIEL, sponsored in full September 24 November 11 April 7 SINFUL DESSERTS, $500 FAMILY AND FRIENDS SHABBAT DINNER, SECOND NIGHT SEDER, $3,000 October 5 $1,000 April 26 RABBI SILBER’S LECTURE, December 9 YOM HA’ATZMAUT, $2,000 sponsored in full FAMILY AND FRIENDS SHABBAT DINNER, May 26 October 12 $1,000 SHAVUOT PANEL, $1,000 SUKKAH DINNER, approximately 50 people January May at $40 per person LUCY S. DAWIDOWICZ LECTURE, ANNUAL MEETING, $2,000 $3,000 October 13, 14 and 15 For additional information, please contact SUKKAH KIDDUSHIM (enhanced), February 5 the synagogue ofﬁce at 212-452-2310, $2,000 for each Kiddush SUPER BOWL PARTY, sponsored in full extension 14. 13 CONGREGATION OR ZARUA SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 Tahara Training at Or Zarua National Authority Rabbi Zohn to teach Sunday, September 18

ne of the most solemn— September 18, following the morning min- ing procedures “…are not simply ancient some might even say “awe- yan, Rabbi Zohn will speak on the princi- rituals, but rather the logical consequence some”—rituals performed by ples of Tahara and then conduct a training of the Jewish perception of death and the Hevra Kadisha is the session and demonstration at Or Zarua. burial.” OTahara, the purification of the In an article, “Respect for a Sacred On September 18, before beginning body before burial. It is usually performed Society,” Rabbi Zohn notes that the per- the training session, it is anticipated that shortly before the funeral. The deceased centage of Jewish people having Tahara Rabbi Zohn will speak at the breakfast is washed, cleansed, ritually purified, and has increased from around three percent following the minyan. The session itself is then dressed in shrouds—in linen gar- to almost 50 percent in the last 35 years. expected to last at least three hours. ments like those worn by the High Priest Or Zarua’s Hevra Kadisha has been called While this is a substantial commitment, in Temple times on Yom Kippur. Prayers upon to perform this mitzvah several times people are encouraged to spend whatever asking for the forgiveness of the deceased in the past few years. Hevra members who amount of time—as little or as much—as and soul’s eternal peace are offered. volunteer to perform Tahara sometimes are they can to learn from this recognized Thus, in a symbolic way, the deceased assisted and guided by members of other authority. Whatever else remains to be leaves the world in the same condition as synagogues with Hevrot, such as Ansche learned can be absorbed through “on-the- he or she entered it. Chesed and Kehilath Jeshurun (KJ), and job training.” In other words, by partici- According to Rabbi Elchonon Zohn, the training session will be open to them pating in a Tahara. “Proper performance of the Tahara…(is) a as well. While prior training is not manda- All Or Zarua Congregants—whether unique expression of the ultimate respect tory, it is helpful in maintaining the expected members of the Hevra or not—are invited for the dignity and the specialty of man.” protocols and decorum of the mitzvah. And to hear Rabbi Zohn. If you plan to attend, Rabbi Zohn, head of the Hevra Kadisha in the need to increase the number of quali- please make a reservation with the office Queens and Long Island under the aus- fied participants is urgent. no later than Tuesday, September 13. pices of the Vaad Harabonim of Queens, The importance of Tahara, says Rabbi There is no charge for this event, but and director of The National Association of Zohn, can’t be overstated. The care for the donations to the Or Zarua Hevra Kadisha Chevra Kadisha, is a leading authority on deceased in the washing and dressing Fund are always welcome and accepted. the practice of Tahara. On Sunday, process and the accompanying and exact- —GERRY SOLOMON AND VERA SILVER

Hesed Events and Programs “The world exists for the sake of kindness.” —Rashi

Pizza at NCS U.S. and around the world to undergo McDonald House’s 7th Floor Terrace G Or Zarua Congregants serve pizza, serious medical treatment at New York City Butterﬂy Garden. salad, soda, and good cheer to men and hospitals. Many reside with their families at Salvation Deliverance Church women with a range of health issues at Ronald McDonald House and often have no G “Pre-owned” adult and children’s clothing, The Neighborhood Coalition Shelters local support system of friends or relatives. toys, dolls, games and related items can be (NCS) East 81st Street residence each The Chaplin at Ronald McDonald House put to good use by the many transitional Monday from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. alerts us when OZ may be of service to homeless residents in the South Bronx, families who may require kosher meals, Hesed Fund including single, jobless mothers and their synagogue services, and other assistance. G Please consider making a $180 contri- children as well as unemployed men. OZ bution to the Hesed Fund to cover the Chemotherapy Caps partners with The Salvation Deliverance cost of food for one Monday evening at G Attractive knitted caps in all sizes for Church, whose members are housekeepers the NCS East 81st Street residence. children from babies to teenagers residing caring for their own local needy. at Ronald McDonald House while undergo- Volunteer Visits To participate in any of these Hesed ing chemotherapy are welcome donations. G Volunteer to visit and cheer ill or home- programs, please contact Richard Stadin bound Or Zarua Congregants. Butterﬂy Garden at [email protected] or 212-879-0448. G “Green thumbs” are needed from spring Ronald McDonald House through fall to help care for The Ronald G Jewish children come from across the

14 WWW.ORZARUA.ORG SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 Or Zarua Book Discussions Great House by Nicole Krauss on Sunday, September 18

lease join us for our first Or fantasies young Israeli, whose domineering father, Zarua book discussion of the about its a mysterious and emotionally distant 2011-12 season on Sunday, provenance antiques dealer, hunts down furniture looted September 18 at 7:30 p.m. in and the mostly by Germans during the World War II in POr Zarua’s library. Pat Davidson tragic fates of order to return it to those who survived. In will lead us in discussing Nicole Krauss’ its custodians. each narrative, Krauss raises provocative well-received novel, Great House. Nadia, the questions about the nature of human rela- Nominated for a 2010 National Book initial narrator, tionships. Award, Great House received the citation: is a writer who Derek Thompson praised Great House “This is a novel about the long journey of received the in The Atlantic: “Imagine a surprising, a magnificent desk as it travels through desk from a breathtaking panorama, captured in four the twentieth century from one owner young poet adjacent Polaroids developing at different to the next. It is also a novel about love, from Chile. speeds that only reveal the full view at the exile, the defilements of war, and the Aaron, an eld- last moment, and you have a feel for the restorative power of language.” erly Israeli widower, is grieving over his patient mastery of Krauss’ achievement.” This grand desk moves from Europe recently deceased wife and over his long- If you would like more information to New York to Israel and into the lives fraught relationship with his son, Dov. on Or Zarua book discussions or have a of four separate narrators who offer, in Arthur is the professor husband of Lotte book suggestion, please contact Reed alternating chapters, accounts of their Berg, who was able to flee Germany as a Schneider at 212-860-8611 or Deborah lives, loves, and losses. The desk links Kindertransport chaperone. And Isabel, an Wenger in the synagogue office at their stories, opening up questions and American in England, meets and falls for a [email protected].

Confronting the Days of Awe continued from page 1 LIFE EVENTS at Congregation Or Zarua

between human and divine, between our should ultimately be rewarded, at some community such as ours shares fragility and God’s infinitude, could not be point and in some manner. Agood times and bad with its mem- more clearcut. The literal meaning of Unetaneh bers. When something good happens in The prayer confidently suggests we Tokef’s poignant words may not be intel- your family—birth, graduation, engage- can affirmatively influence our otherwise lectually compelling to many modern Jews. ment, or marriage—let us share your unalterable destiny through conventional Perhaps, however, the prayer’s resonance joy. When something bad happens— Jewish means. Whether we each believe for us does not reside in its linear truth. illness, hospitalization, or a death in that we can in fact take our fate into our The High Holy Day liturgy speaks to our your family—let us share your burden. own hands is uncertain. Will repentance, souls as much as to our minds, to our Sometimes people are reluctant prayer, and charity really make any mean- hearts as well as to our intellect. The to communicate these issues on their ingful difference in our lot in life? Indeed, pressing challenge during the upcoming own. If you know of a member who is the answer given in Unetaneh Tokef is Days of Awe is to walk the tightrope of coping with illness or loss, please equivocal; we can sidestep, not necessarily trepidation and resoluteness, to feel contact the OZ office at 212-452-2310, annul, the severe decree, albeit only for inspired to overcome anxiety about our extension 12 or 14, so that Rabbi the short term. But Unetaneh Tokef, and encroaching future. What that future Wechsler can be informed. the mainstream Jewish theology it holds, of course, only God knows. May it reflects, instruct that our good actions be a blessed future for all of us.

OR ZARUA CRAFTS CLUB The Or Zarua Crafts Club will be meeting in the fall on the following Sundays at 10:15 a.m. in the OZ library: October 23, November 20, and December 18. Remember, no experience is necessary to join the Crafts Club and older children and non-members are also welcome to attend.

15 CONGREGATION OR ZARUA SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 Or Zarua Welcomes Deborah Klee Wenger New administrative assistant to the rabbi

eborah Klee Orthodox, and Reform—on a particular dancing, including performing once a year DWenger has Jewish practice or custom. She was also at the Israel Folkdance Festival held at recently joined the the production coordinator at the newspaper, M.I.T. She also discovered the joys of sky- Or Zarua staff as the and did the layout and design each week. diving, earning a “C” license. administrative assis- More recently Deborah has been active Each of the things Deborah has done tant to the rabbi. at Jewish Family Service of Central New professionally through the years has cen- For the last 22 Jersey in Elizabeth as a volunteer grant tered around administrative work within a years Deborah has writer. In addition, she coordinates the blog- learning environment. As she puts it, been involved profes- gers for www.Jewcology.com, which pro- “Creating order out of chaos is a joy. sionally within the Jewish community in motes environmental awareness and action Finding creative and positive ways to administration, journalism and teaching. within the international Jewish community. direct the currents of an institution’s day- For 10 years, until last summer, Growing up in the greater Boston to-day functioning is exciting.” Deborah worked in Jewish journalism, first area, Deborah earned a Ph.D. from Boston “My passion is Klal Yisrael,” Deborah at the Kansas City Jewish Chronicle, then University in the history and literature of said. “Or Zarua’s mission as a participatory at The Jewish State in central New Jersey. ancient Israel. During her graduate studies synagogue is wonderful, for I believe Her most unusual interview was with she was on the administrative staff of the deeply that Judaism is a hands-on experi- Teddy the Corgi, the first service dog at dean’s office of the School of Theology at ence, not a spectator sport.” Village Shalom, a senior living community B.U. Later, she taught all ages in a variety We all welcome Deborah and wish her in Kansas. At The Jewish State Deborah of settings: afternoon Hebrew school, a long and happy tenure with us. wrote a weekly column called “Practice college and graduate school, and Jewish Contact Deborah in the OZ office at Tips,” in which she interviewed rabbis adult education. 212-452-2310, extension 12, or email from three perspectives—Conservative, In her free time she enjoyed folk [email protected].

CONGREGATION Bagels, Babka and Balabustas OR ZARUA 100 years of Jews and Food in America OFFICE HOURS Monday through Thursday 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Friday 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. The Or Zarua ofﬁce is closed Saturday and Sunday as well as on Jewish and federal holidays.

TORAH READERS NEEDED If you are able to read Torah or Haftarah and would like to do so on a Shabbat, please contact Henry Glanternik at [email protected]. Alternatively, you may sign up online at www.orzarua.org The current OZ Gallery show explores how traditional Jewish foodways were preserved, by choosing “Read Torah” under the adapted and blended with American modernity. If you missed the opening on May 19, “Prayer” drop-down menu. be sure to savor the exhibit on display in the OZ social hall through the fall.

16 WWW.ORZARUA.ORG SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011

Executive Director’s Network TALMUD CLASS Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m. Saves Or Zarua Thousands in the OZ Library Harvey M. Brenner, FTA, shops online for mahzorim This year we will be studying Tractate Sanhedrin, which deals with the laws of id you know that one of the the mahzorim at Congregation Ansche capital punishment, composition of the benefits of affiliation with Chesed on the Upper West Side. Through courts and judicial procedures. the United Synagogue of his NAASE affiliation and his relationship The first class will be held on Conservative Judaism is the with their executive director, Josh Hanft, November 2. ready access our executive he was able to procure the much needed D Classes are taught by director, Harvey Brenner, FTA, has with his mahzorim at no charge, saving the cohorts around the country through their Congregation approximately $7,000. RABBI WECHSLER peer organization NAASE, the North As you daven at Or Zarua this High No prior knowledge of Talmud, Hebrew American Association of Synagogue Holy Day season, you’ll note that the or Aramaic is required. Executives? prayer books are used and have donation He is able to ask an online question plates from Ansche Chesed, which we of more than 250 other synagogue admin- have chosen to honor as our way of saying istrators that helps Or Zarua resolve a “thank you” to Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky, OZ Cemetery problem or find a resource to obtain President Roberta Kupietz Shapiro, and Gravesites for Members goods and services that our shul needs. Executive Director Josh Hanft for their Most recently, when we determined extraordinary generosity. he Or Zarua section of Beth El that we would supplement our High Holy The Jewish community in New York is Cemetery is located in Washington Day services at the New York Academy of a close-knit one and it is through such Township (Bergen County), New Medicine with additional services in our acts that we are sustained and nurtured. T Jersey, just 10 miles away from the George Or Zarua building, we recognized the need Hazak, hazak, v’nithazayk! May they Washington Bridge. Beth El Cemetery is to acquire 250 “Harlow mahzorim” quickly. be blessed and move from strength to H

Harvey queried his peers online and located strength! A R V E Y

B R E N N E Introducing Joseph Schwartz R Congregation Or Zarua’s rabbinic intern

oseph Schwartz thought, tefila, and Talmud Torah. He hopes Jwill be Or Zarua’s to help create new ways for Jews to engage rabbinic intern for with their tradition. A view of the Or Zarua cemetery section. the current academic He received his B.A. from Columbia year. Joe grew up at College and his J.D. from New York well-maintained and landscaped with Congregation Or University School of Law, where he was an trees and shrubs. The cemetery’s design Zarua; it was Rabbi editor of the Law Review. provides a serene and beautiful final Wechsler’s example Joe began his tenure with Or Zarua resting place that reflects the values and that inspired him to on July 1. He will be involved in several aesthetics of Congregation Or Zarua. pursue the rabbinate. aspects of our Congregation, including Gravesites within the Or Zarua section are Currently a fourth-year rabbinical stu- teaching in our youth and adult programs, available for sale solely to members of dent at the Ziegler School for Rabbinical creating online course material and our Congregation. Burial is limited to per- Studies at the American Jewish University discussion groups, and participating in our sons of the Jewish faith. If you are inter- in Los Angeles, Joe will be studying at the services. ested in buying gravesites in the Or Zarua Jewish Theological Seminary this year. Please extend a warm welcome to section, please contact the synagogue Joe is passionate about Jewish Joe Schwartz. office at 212-452-2310, ext. 14.

EDITOR’S NOTE If you have an idea or article that is appropriate for publication in the OZ Newsletter, please contact Charlie Spielholz at [email protected]. All copy for the November/December 2011 issue should be received by Monday, October 3.

17 CONGREGATION OR ZARUA 127 East 82nd Street New York, NY 10028-0807

HIGH HOLY DAY VENUE CHANGE NY Academy of Medicine 1216 Fifth Avenue at 103 Street (entrance on 103 Street, just east of Fifth Avenue) Congregation Or Zarua 127 East 82nd Street Please see detailed information and schedule for Rosh Hashanah, Kol Nidre and Yom Kippur on page 4.

CONGREGATION OR ZARUA SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 September/October Checklist

G Please review all the information about High Holy Day Services G Or Zarua children are invited to sleep in the Sukkah after contained on page 4. Shabbat, Saturday night, October 15. RSVP by Monday, October G Shofar blowers are needed; lessons available (see page 5). 10 (see page 6). G Sign up for a Rabbinical Search Committee Discussion Group G Sushi in the Sukkah for OZ’s young professionals, Sunday, on September 8, 11, 12, 20 or 21 (see page 13). October 16 at 3:00 p.m. (see page 7). G Join other Congregants at our annual Welcome Back Kiddush G Enjoy kiddush lunches on the ﬁrst three days of Sukkot— Lunch after Shabbat services, Saturday, September 10. Thursday, October 13, Friday, October 14, and Saturday, October G Hebrew school starts on Monday, September 12. 15—immediately following services. G Hebrew and Jewish Studies class for post-Bar/Bat Mitzvah G Enjoy kiddush lunch after services on Simhat Torah, October 21. students begins on Monday, September 12 (see page 8). G Talmud Class with Rabbi Wechsler begins on Wednesday, G Rabbi Zohn conducts Tahara training at Or Zarua, Sunday, November 2. September 18, after the morning service (see page 14). G Or Zarua Preschool Program begins on Friday, October 28 G Or Zarua Book Discussions features Great House by Nicole (see page 8). Krauss, Sunday, September 18, 7:30 p.m. (see page 15). G RSVP by Monday, November 7 for a Shabbat Family and Friends G Order your lulav and etrog for Sukkot by noon on Friday, dinner on Friday, November 11 (see page 7). September 16 (see page 6). G Make a reservation to hear Natan Sharansky on Thursday, G Selihot services on Saturday, September 24 at 10:00 p.m. will November 10 at 7:00 p.m. (see page 3). be preceded by Sinful Desserts at 8:00 p.m. and Rabbi Wechsler G teaching on the writings of Rav Kook at 9:15 p.m. Help out with a Hesed program (see page 14). G G The David Project will present a discussion about Israel on Sign up for the morning minyan. Monday, October 3 at 6:30 p.m. (see page 9). G Have you seen the OZ Youth Art Calendar described on page 8? G Attend Rabbi David Silber’s lecture “Yom Kippur and Purim” on G Call the Or Zarua ofﬁce (212-452-2310) if you have questions Tuesday, October 4 at 8:00 p.m. (see page 5). about or wish to sponsor any OZ program or event. G RSVP by Wednesday, October 5 for dinner in the Sukkah on G Have an idea or article for the OZ newsletter? If so, please Erev Sukkot, Wednesday, October 12. contact Charlie Spielholz ([email protected]). 20