In This Month’s Highlight View from the Chair...... 3 Limmud 2014...... 3 Cheder News...... 4 Social Centre News...... 4 Trip to Eastern Europe...... 5 Talmud Study Classes...... 5 MRJ Book Launch...... 6 The BeaTles of Shushan...... 6 Jewish Book Week 2015...... 6 Social and Personal...... 7 Highlight online...... 7 jeneration on campus...... 7 The Full Limmud...... 8 The Civic Service, marking the end of the Synagogue’s Golden Jubilee LBC Lehrhaus...... 8 celebrations was held on Saturday, 24 January, Shabbat Bo. Standing Introduction to Judaism...... 8 at the centre of the photograph with our Chairman Joanna Koenigsberg are the Mayor and Mayoress of Bromley, Councillor Julian Benington Book Study Session...... 9 and Mrs Benington. Also present were Bob Neill M.P., Robert Weiner, Services...... 9 Chairman of MRJ and his wife, Chief Superintendent Chris Hafford, Riding4Reform...... 9 Commander of the Bromley Division, members of the local clergy, Rabbis UJIA Legacy Mission...... 9 Tony Hammond and David and Helen Freeman, and Joe and Marilyn Dates for Your Diary...... 10 Burchell from Catford and Bromley Synagogue. Synagogue Contacts...... 11 Advertisements...... 12 Tu B’Shvat Shabbat Service Saturday 7 February at 10:30 am 999 Club This Tu B’Shvat, the Cheder will host the Shabbat Service on needs your donations! Saturday 7 February, to be followed by a special bring and share Kids’ and adults’ clothes, food. GREEN Kiddush. Please bring them to shul and earn We would love bakers and other kindly souls to help bring any of a thank you from these Tu B’Shvat treats to the Kiddush: people who don’t A fruit with an outer shell or peel that cannot be eaten: nuts, • have as much in life pomegranates, kiwi, banana as we do and need a • A fruit with seeds inside: apples, olives, peaches, pears, plums, prunes, dates helping hand. • A fruit with seeds inside and an outer sheet or peel that cannot be eaten: oranges, tangerines, grapefruit • A fruit that is completely edible: raisins, figs, strawberries, carob • You may also bring a food made from wheat: bread, cake or biscuits To find out more please email [email protected] or [email protected] Join a visit to Jewish Prague - see page 5 of Highlight Tu B’Shvat 5775 B’Shvat February 2015 – Tu A constituent of the Movement for Reform Judaism 28, Highland Road, BROMLEY, Kent, BR1 4AD Telephone: 020 8460 5460 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.bromleyshul.org.uk (Office - 9.30 am to 12.30 pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays) Minister: Rabbi Jason Holtz 07454 021 892 Synagogue Administrator: Mrs Janet Burlem

HONORARY OFFICERS President: David Barnett Vice-Presidents: Desirée Barnett Zena Goodman Sally Rosebery Norman Goldberg Ivor Lask, MBE Bob Symonds Ronnie Goldberg Dianne Mathews David Zerihan Executive Offcers Chairman: Joanna Koenigsberg 020 8309 1061 [email protected] Vice-Chairmen: Toby Allin 01892 528053 [email protected] Matthew de Lange 020 8858 6206 [email protected] Secretary: Lesley Freeman 01689 818731 [email protected] Treasurer: Sandra Hurley 07770 661 898 [email protected] Senior Warden: Larry Shall 01732 873361 [email protected]

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY (in the event of a bereavement) Contact Mrs Janet Posner: 020 8650 7521 (Mobile: 07841 373 309) or Stephen Weil: 020 8299 4141 (Mobile: 07764 475209)

Editor: Bob Symonds: 020 8402 2197; [email protected] Opinions expressed in “Highlight” are not necessarily the official policy of the Synagogue

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Copy date for March Highlight: Sunday 15 February 2 Not all plans run smoothly – View from the Chair hen she Rabbi Laura actually arrived with her made us think again and again about our Wheard that suitcase, not to stay with us in Bromley, security. Shabbat services seem to be Rabbi Jason Holtz but to travel to Paris that same afternoon. largely covered, but the safety of Cheder was going on Her goal was both to offer support to children on Sundays is giving cause for holiday, Rabbi her French counterparts and, in addi- concern. In order to enable Cheder par- Laura Janner- tion, with a British Muslim colleague, to ents to fulfil their security duties more Klausner kindly demonstrate that our faiths are in no way confidently, there will soon (watch for offered to take ‘natural enemies’ but human beings who February dates) be one or two courses the service on the can work together amicably. I hope we covering the basics. Please look out for Shabbat. Quickly will soon hear how her trip went. them, and try to attend. The safety of our realising that this The discussion about the work of the children must be of prime importance was an excellent opportunity to hear Movement did take place. Rabbi Laura and cannot just be left to someone else to more about the Movement for Reform emphasised that the administration has maintain. Judaism, plans were made to invite been slimmed down in recent years Do you remember the Kol Nidre members to listen to Rabbi Laura during and the focus changed so that the staff appeal? I am really pleased to be able or after a bring-and-share lunch. do a great deal of traveling, rather than to share with you that we raised around Not all plans are destined to run waiting at the for £3,000 for each of our charities. I would smoothly, though. The outrages in Paris members to approach them. For Jews like to thank you all for your generos- certainly altered our Shabbat plans. In in a slightly “far-flung” location this ity, of course, but more moving are the the first instance, Rabbi Laura dispensed is good news! It was also heartening thanks of the 999 Club and from WIZO with the sermon she had prepared and to hear that children and young people on behalf of the Phoebe Welcome Leon instead offered us an opportunity to from Beit Or were benefiting from Day Centre. They described our cheques share our thoughts and emotions about involvement with the Movement’s as “a wonderful gift” and “a welcome what had happened. Our conclusion, programmes. I would recommend surprise” respectively. The contributions if you can call it one, was that we are anyone wanting to learn more about the from Beit Or will help make a differ- appreciative of the features of an enlight- work of the movement to have a look at ence, I am sure, so thanks once again. ened democratic system which enables its website (www.reformjudaism.org. Joanna Koenigsberg, Chairman us to feel safe most of the time and that uk). [email protected] these events only make us value it more. The horrible events in France have

Limmud 2014 - A giant Jewish learning convention went to Limmud for the first time a pointed to Gaza as an example. Israel, with similar Biblical I year ago and was really happy to go he said, completely withdrew from Gaza texts. In particular, again this year. For those of you who and a year later Hamas was in power. he focused on stories have never been, it’s a giant Jewish This past summer was just one example that dealt with the learning convention lasting for the better of Hamas instigating another round of subject of evil. Evil part of week that attracts nearly 2,600 conflict since that time. So, Ari claimed, was always a difficult people. All sorts of Jews attend: secular, there is absolutely no proof or evidence problem for monothe- Orthodox, Reform, Masorti, British, that giving up land will lead to peace, ists, because if there Israeli, American, European, you name calm or security. However, Ari also is one God that created everything, one it. Nearly every waking hour (and even critiqued the Israeli right for thinking that must ask, “Did God create evil?” Dr some non-waking hours), there is a it is in anyway desirable or defensible to Hoffman looked at Biblical texts, such as whole variety of things going on, from rule over the Palestinians indefinitely. the expulsion from the Garden of Eden, music to discussion to lecture to food to The Israeli right, he also said, is moving which blames human nature and tempta- shopping, to debate, and this year, a New from a secular, conservative movement tion, and extra-Biblical texts, such as the Year’s Eve Party. that aimed to be pragmatic to one that is Book of Enoch, which talks about fallen One of the most interesting present- influenced much more by a messianic, angels. Ultimately, Dr Hoffman’s pre- ers this year was Ari Shavit. Ari is an religious zeal. He offered an entire series sentation was a great discussion on the Israeli journalist who recently wrote of lectures on his analysis of Israeli diversity of thought and belief in ancient a fantastic book, My Promised Land, internal politics, Israeli foreign affairs, Israel. which I highly recommend. He spoke and issues pertaining to the wider Middle Limmud was a wonderful experience passionately about his love for Israel, East. for me. If you have never been before, I his commitment to Zionism, but also his Another fascinating presentation encourage you to think about attending concern over the direction of his country. was by Dr Joel Hoffman. He discussed next year. He criticised both the Israeli left and the ancient Israelite stories that were written L’shalom, to peace, Israeli right. The Israeli political left, he down at the same time as the Hebrew Rabbi Jason Holtz, [email protected] said, wrongly equated ending the occupa- Bible, but that were ultimately not See also the report by first-time visitor tion with the achievement of peace. He included in the canon and compared them Stephen Weil on page 8 of Highlight.

Highlight, February 2015 - Shevat/Adar 5775 3 Cheder News Social Centre News Welcome back everyone! I hope ell, some of our “wanderers” you’ve all had a happy, healthy, restful Wreturned to the Social Centre New Year and are ready to start 2015 on Wednesday, 12 January and with your most important resolution: “I very welcome they were. We were will come to Cheder EVERY week and particularly happy to see Valerie and on TIME”! Here’s what’s happening in Lionel, both looking in good spirits. Cheder: Lionel led the discussion (with some interruption from those present) 1) Our Chanukah Party was a with a resum of why Jews emigrated HUGE success, with nearly 100 é to western Europe and America in such people in attendance. It was great numbers in the 19th century. One especially nice to see so many new of the reasons, of course. was the anti- faces, including potential members Semitism and the other principal reason of our synagogue. Let’s hope was that a decree was issued that all Chanukah was so much fun, they Jewish males from 13 upwards would want to join us more often. have to join the Russian army for 25 2) Cheder started again on 4 years. January and we got off to a They made their journey via the flying start. One highlight was Baltic ports (Hamburg being the most the assembly led by the children Table of fruits at the 2014 Tu B’Shvat popular) and when they arrived at their who went to Sheleg camp over celebration destinations they were escorted off the the holiday. They sang a Sheleg Cheder: Dani at dani_hall@ boats not knowing whether they were in song and it seems they all had a hotmail.com or Michelle at mbe@ Europe or America because most of the fantastic time. Many thanks to the jrwe.wanadoo.co.uk immigrants were unable to speak English (I can just imagine the arguments on the Shul which provided the funding 5) Family services are continuing, quayside)! to help all of the children go this with one planned every other year. month. These are Rabbi-led This led us to discuss the tragic events in Paris and why a minority of 3) We also had some sad news. Our family friendly services (not to be Moslems want to spread their doctrine. lovely remedial teacher Pauline confused with Children’s Services, Some of us thought this was no different Jeffree has suffered a nasty fall which are led by the children) from other religions, except they want to and won’t be able to come to They’re shorter and the music is a achieve this by violence, whereas most Cheder this term. We wish her a bit bouncier than regular services, religions try to achieve it by persuasion refuah shelayma. Luckily for us, so why not give one a try? (except it was pointed out that the Noam Eyal and Joshua Parks 6) And last but certainly not least, the Crusaders were a bloodthirsty lot and have offered to step in and provide Tu B’Shvat Children’s Service many hundreds of people were killed, remedial support for any children will take place on Saturday, 7 including many Jews. who need it until Pauline is well February INSTEAD of Cheder As usual, the discussion ran over enough to return to us. Get well on the 8th! (That’s right, Cheder time and we had to break up for the soon, Pauline! is cancelled on 8 February) Here customary delicious lunch. 4) By the time you read this, the children will indeed LEAD After lunch we were given our Horaay Cheder will have had this shorter service of songs and calendar for Social Centre meetings another coffee morning to talk stories for the entire community, up until June. Some of us breathed a about how we can make Cheder followed by a bring and share sigh of relief to know that for the next the best possible experience for “Green Kiddush”. Please make six months at least we will not have to our children. If you could help every effort to come on this day watch the afternoon film on TV for two us in even the smallest of ways, (remember, you’ll have Sunday days in every month. Most of us feel it why not join us for one of these off as a reward!). The Kiddush is more worthwhile coming out (despite coffee mornings? Sometimes will need each family to bring a the weather) to meet and talk to each even offering just to bring a cake Tu B’Shvat fruit or food to share, other and generally enjoy the company to an event can make all the so please check the posters and of friends. difference to us- but you have to flyers to see what those are. It Zelda Stone know when those events are, and promises to be a lovely Saturday Social Centre Diary Dates that’s what we talk about. If you morning! Wednesday, 11 February can help, would you please let us That’s all for now… With best wishes Socialising and lunch know by contacting either of our for a happy and healthy February, Wednesday, 25 February two wonderful heads of Horaay Vicki, [email protected] visit from Chiropractor Jason Gould

Copy date for March Highlight: Sunday 15 February 4 An Exciting Opportunity for You to Travel to Eastern Europe ne of the treasures in our syna- Prague Jewish house of prayer gogue is a Torah scroll from the (“the Old Shul”) and designed CzechO Jewish community of Bzenec. in a Moorish style by Vojtech Jews lived in that small town for cen- Ignátz Ullmann. turies; however, some fled and many For more information, visit: more were deported and killed as the http://www.arzaworld.com/temple- Nazis spread across Europe. Whole kehilat-chaim-europe-trip-2015.aspx communities were gone, but their reli- This is a custom tour, run by ARZA gious artefacts, including Torah scrolls, (Association of Reform Zionists of were left behind. Many of these items America) World meant specifically to were collected and stored in Prague guide our synagogues around East- during the war, and eventually came Prague - Altneu Schul ern Europe. Because it is a custom into the custody of Westminster Syna- tour, run by a Reform Jewish affili- gogue about 50 years ago. Westminster − The Jewish Museum, housed on ated travel organisation, this will be Synagogue in turn loaned out approxi- the site of Theodor Herzl’s birth. a unique, one of a kind experience. I mately 1,500 of these Torah scrolls to − The Community Holocaust hope that many of you will be able to other synagogues around the world. Memorial. participate on this exciting trip to learn Bromley Reform Synagogue has two • Visit the Vienna Temple (Stadtem- more about this history of Eastern of these scrolls, including the one from pel), the only surviving synagogue European Jewish communities as well Bzenec. from pre-WWII days, located near as the history of one of our very own Recently, Rabbi Harvey Winokur the Judenplatz, the main square of Torah scrolls. of Temple Kehillat Chaim in subur- the Jewish community for nearly L’shalom, ban Atlanta, Georgia contacted me. 500 years. Rabbi Jason Holtz, His synagogue, like ours, has a Torah • A tour of Bzenec, where one of our [email protected] scroll from Bzenec. Including our Torah scrolls originated, including two synagogues, there are a total of a visit to the Jewish cemetery. nine synagogues currently in posses- Talmud Study Classes • An Inside Look into the Czech Rabbi Jason Holtz, Instructor sion of a scroll from Bzenec (all but Republic- Politics, Economics & Bromley are located in the United he Talmud is the foundational Society Dialogue with Mr Peter States). Last year, Rabbi Winokur literature of Rabbinic Judaism. Brod, former BBC Bureau Chief travelled to London to take part in the FullT of legend and law, its teachings and Radio Free Europe activist. 50 year anniversary ceremony of the have guided Jews for thousands of • Guided visit through Jewish Czech scrolls arriving at Westminster years, and it is still hugely influen- Prague, including the Old Ghetto, Synagogue. The anniversary ceremony tial. No prior knowledge is neces- the Precious Legacy Exhibit at the was very moving for him. When he sary for this course, but it is proving returned home, he did more research Jewish Museum and the Jewish Cemetery, as well as: challenging and thought provoking on Bzenec and decided to help organ- for all. ise a trip for his synagogue members − The Altneu Shul, the longest to Eastern Europe, to learn more about continually used synagogue in Students need to bring their own the history of the Jewish community. Europe and site of the first use copy of Tractate Berachot, and they This trip is now planned, and Rabbi of the Magen David. are recommended to bring a Tenach (Bible) as well. Many publish- Winokur has graciously invited the − The Maisel Synagogue, named members of our synagogue, along with after a Jewish mayor of Prague, ers have printed a version of the the members of the other synagogues exemplifies the Golden Age of Talmud that will work well, but the with Torah scrolls from Bzenec, to Jewish Prague. Koren Talmud, with a translation come along. The trip goes from July − The Pincus Synagogue, a and commentary by Rabbi Adin 13-20, 2015 and begins and ends in memorial to the Jews of Prague Steinsaltz, is recommended. This Prague. In addition to Prague, the trip who died in the Holocaust. version can be purchased from will go to Budapest, Vienna, and, of − The Old Cemetery, with the Amazon.co.uk course, Bzenec. Highlights of the trip graves of such Jewish luminar- The course meets on Thursdays include: ies as Judah Loew, the Maharal, from 10:30-11:45 am. • Explore the Story of Jewish and Mordechai Maisels, and the Budapest over the past 150 Years, ceremonial hall with the well- For more information, please con- including visits to: known Hevra Kadisha paintings. tact Rabbi Jason Holtz on 020 8460 5460 or Barbara Kurtz − The Dohany Street Synagogue, − The Spanish Synagogue built the largest in Europe. in 1868 on the site of the oldest by e-mail at [email protected]

Highlight, February 2015 - Shevat/Adar 5775 5 MRJ Book Launch Two books, written by Reform rabbis, were launched at the The BeaTles of Shushan Sternberg Centre at the end of Live performance January. at Bromley Reform Synagogue They were: ‘Bar Mitzvah, a history’ by Rabbi Sunday, 8 March Michael Hilton seating at 10:30 am “Bar mitzvah and bat mitzvah are contemporary Judaism’s Help wanted! Auditions open to all adults best-known and least understood and children, regardless of experience or observances. Michael Hilton does ability level, to join the Fab Four a wonderful job of assembling the lore, laws, and customs regarding Rehearsal Schedule: bar mitzvah and bat mitzvah in a way Sundays that is easily accessible to scholars, 8 February educators, and laypeople. Highly 11:15 am-12:45 pm recommended!” Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin, author of 15 February Putting God on the Guest List: How 1:00-2:30 pm to Reclaim the Spiritual Meaning of 1 March 1:00-2:30 pm Your Child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah ‘The Aura of Torah, a Kabbalistic Traditional Megillah Hasidic Commentary on the Reading on Erev Purim, Thursday, 4 March. Torah’ by Rabbi Larry Tabick. “The Aura of Torah is an important and useful contribution to the Jewish Book Week 2015 emergent literature of spiritual Saturday evening, 21 February – Sunday, 1 March companions to the parashah. There is nothing quite like it on the This year’s international festival of arts and ideas explores the best shelf. Tabick assembles mystical new writing from the UK, Europe, Israel and the US. It features con- teachings for the general reader temporary culture, scorching debates, renowned authors (including with insight, creativity, and obvious Bromley’s own Martin Wolf), original voices, and themes that include spiritual depth.” fathers and daughters, the end of WW2 and The New Yorker season. Lawrence Kushner, author of Honey Enjoy nine days of innovative events on art and archaeology, history from the Rock. and music, philosophy and politics, psychoanalysis and the economy, For further information go to: and, of course, fantastic fiction. [email protected] The principal venue is Kings Place on York Way, north of Kings Cross Station, and there are lunchtime events at the Jewish Museum, Camden Town, NW1. Browse the full festival programme: jewishbookweek.com Book tickets: kingsplace.co.uk/jbw For Jewish Museum events contact [email protected] or 020 7446 8771 Kings Place, 90 York Way, London N1 9AG 020 7520 1490

Copy date for March Highlight: Sunday 15 February 6 Social and Personal The Golden Jubilee Bench Would you prefer your Highlight online? BEREAVEMENTS ots of people these days prefer Sincere condolences to Stanley Lreading things online. We currently Solts and his family on the sad loss send out a paper Highlight to most of his mother Hannah Solts at the members each month - and we have no age of 102. intention of stopping - but we don’t want Sincere condolences also to Alison to be sending it out to people who don’t Scammell on the sad loss of her really want a hardcopy version. father, David, grandfather to Ben If you would prefer to read Highlight and Hannah. online, please let us know and we will A picture of the bench commemorating the GET WELL SOON arrange for you to get a monthly email Synagogue’s Golden Jubilee, organised by to David Barnett, Brenda Houlden, with a link to Highlight on our website. the Caring Community and installed by Raymond Shomberg and, especially, The copy is identical. We can provide Bromley Council at the corner of Highland to the Caring Community’s Pauline this service and stop sending you Road and Madeira Avenue. It provides who has now returned home after a paper Highlight or we can provide the a nice resting place after struggling up stay in hospital. service in addition to paper Highlight. the hill! You decide - but if you want to take A MESSAGE FROM MARIE advantage of this service please email Marie Horn tells us that she is happily jeneration on campus settled in Dover, where she has moved the Editor on comms@bromleyshul is back to be with her family. Her new environ- Happy reading! calling all sixth formers! ment is proving beneficial, but she is The Editor missing all her friends in Bromley, so stay with reform students she has asked us to pass on her love get a taste for life on campus e-light not received? and good wishes. spend shabbat on campus Judi Sheffrin writes: experience university hands on Talmud and Torah study I understand that people occasionally where: Nottingham “drop off” the e-light distribution list Zena Goodman writes: and then think that e-light has been We enjoy going to the Talmud study when: 13-15 February discontinued. mornings on Thursdays twice a month For more information visit in the synagogue. These sessions are www.jeneration.org It hasn’t! If you haven’t received it led by Rabbi Jason Holtz. They are not Applications must be received by recently, please go to the Synagogue too long, starting at 10.30 am and fin- Friday 6 February 2015. website (www.bromleyshul.org.uk), select “News” and click on “subscribe to ishing by 11.45 am. We usually have a The on-campus event costs £30 our newsletters”. hot drink before starting, which is wel- excluding travel. Thank you, Judi come on a cold day. You do not need to If you require financial assistance have experience in reading Talmud. email [email protected] Some of us have not previously had the in confidence. Knit and Natter opportunity to study the text before- The next ‘Knit and Natter’ is planned hand. Some (like me) may have forgot- for: Monday, 16 February from ten bits. We read the English transla- Council of Christians and Jews 2.30 - 4 pm at Pauline’s home. South East London Branch tion as well as the original Hebrew. We need knitters and The point I would like to make is that Tuesday, 3 March at 8.00 pm we always have a good it is very enjoyable. We learn in a short Refreshments from 7.45 pm natter over a cup of tea time some of our history and religious at Catford and Bromley or coffee with cake. law. Everyone asks questions and Synagogue, Crantock Road, SE6 Any queries please contact Pauline at maybe shares ideas. We go because Sacred Music: how Christians [email protected]. we have the time in the day. The rabbi and Jews use music to create loves to lead and share a discussion. I sanctity Late breaking news find it very stimulating. Our discussions will be led by DEATH - We are very sad to report On Monday evenings twice a month the Rev’d Dr Rebecca Lloyd, Curate, the death on 23 January of our founder Torah Study Group is led by Dr. John St Stephen’s, South Dulwich member Lila Cailes, widow of the late Posner. The Rev David Rome, Cantor and Jack Cailes and mother of Lawrence As the evenings lengthen it will Leader of Catford Synagogue and Graeme, to whom, together with become easier to go out at night to the For further details, please contact their families, we offer sincere condo- many events held in the shul. Stephen Weil on 020 8693 2051; lences. We hope to publish a eulogy of Zena Goodman E: [email protected] Lila in the March issue of Highlight.

Highlight, February 2015 - Shevat/Adar 5775 7 The Full Limmud by Stephen Weil COLLEGE his is my report on my first visit LEHRHAUS Tto a full, multi-day Limmud (as distinct from a one-day Limmud), Home of Adult Education and it was a strikingly different (and New opportunities for richer) experience thanks to the study in 2015 international background of so many Sign up today to feed your enthusiasm of the speakers and participants. This for Progressive Jewish Education. fact alone transformed the teaching All the courses are taught by the and the learning. College’s faculty. Our teachers are For those who may not know Chavruta - one-to-one study - at Limmud both passionate about their subject and the multi-day Limmud, it could (picture downloaded from Limmud site) deeply knowledgeable. be described as a “pop-up” 5-day (in my mind) on the absence of any Tuesday evenings university, with over 1,000 lectures reference of a betrayal in Paul’s 27 January - 24 March at 7.30 to 9.15 pm or other sessions, and just under letters written several years before Biblical Hebrew with Dr Alinda 3,000 participants. Limmud means Nero. Thank you, Rabbi Jason Holtz, Damsma “learning”, “a course of study” etc. who guided me to the lecturer. Tuesday evenings Even sessions led by British Rachel Elior, who holds the chair 3 - 24 February teachers, such as Matthew Pein, of Jewish Philosophy at the Hebrew at 7.45 to 9.15 pm looking at writings of the 12th century University of Jerusalem, led a master Spinoza’s Jewish Philosophy with philosopher Maimonides, were class in the study of the one surviving Rabbi Mark L Solomon transformed by the clarity and different letter of the Baal Shem Tov, the 18th ideas of the non-British participants. century “founder” of Hasidism, which Wednesday evenings 4 February - 25 March With most sessions involving combined mysticism with Orthodoxy. I at 7.45 to 9.15 pm did not even know that any written participants reading aloud to the Jewish Sacred Music: High Holidays work from the Baal Shem Tov had class from selected texts, one quickly – Nusach, Melodies and Texts with Dr developed a sense of, and curiosity survived, so it was an eye opener for Annette Boeckler about, the international background of me. The lecturer brilliantly placed Tuesday evenings those present. I have heard of fusion the Baal Shem Tov in his economic 3 - 24 March and social setting and drew out his cuisine; this was fusion teaching and at 7.45 to 9.15 pm originality. This talk was another learning, producing its own dynamic. Why Did God Laugh? - Introduction Another advantage of hearing fellow suggestion from Rabbi Jason Holtz. to Midrash with Rabbi Colin Eimer class participants read texts was Natan Sharansky, one of the Information and Registration to make it much easier to identify heroes of our times, was every bit as For full details about courses and those you might wish to talk to later outstanding as I had hoped. registration see (and one or two you might want to Deborah Lipstadt, Professor of http://bit.ly/LBC_Lehrhaus_2015 or avoid...!). Modern Jewish History at Emory phone/email Jarek on 020 8349 5600 The very choice of subject itself University in Atlanta, became famous or [email protected] opened up new horizons; I was on account of the successful outcome fascinated by the introduction given of her trial against a Holocaust Introduction to Judaism by Jill Hammer, a New York rabbi, denier. Professor Lipstadt spoke about on how to begin to understand our the Eichmann trial, which I had heard taught by Rabbi Jason Holtz dreams, both those in the Bible and our about as a child. She explained why This Sunday morning series will own. the German authorities had tipped My favourite lectures: off the Israeli authorities, why Ben continue in February with an Introduction to Everyday Jewish Michael Cook, a US rabbi with Gurion had taken the line he did of a full professorial chair in New ordering a fair trial for Eichmann, and Living on February 1, 8 and 15. Testament, on “Judas”, argued how the state had gone about ensuring All the courses will be held in that Judas did not betray Jesus; a fair trial, building on lessons learnt the Sanctuary and will run from that the concept of Judas as traitor from the Nuremberg Trials. It was 10:00-11:00 am dated from 30 years after the event a fascinating, if unusual, way of when Christians found themselves spending New Year’s Eve. persecuted under Nero; and that Judas I highly recommend everyone to became identified as a traitor because experience the full Limmud at least of the similarity of his name to Judah once in their lives, if only for a couple (= Jew). Professor Cook’s case rested of days.

Copy date for March Highlight: Sunday 15 February 8 Book Study Session led by Rabbi Jason Holtz SERVICES The Plot Against America by February 2015 – Shevat/Adar 5775 Philip Roth All Fridays at 6.45 pm, unless otherwise stated. Published in 2004, Saturdays at 10.30 am, unless otherwise stated this book is an alterna- tive history, in which Friday 6 February Yitro (18 Shevat) Franklin D Roosevelt Saturday 7 February Tu B’Shvat Shabbat morning service is defeated in the led by the Cheder children, followed by a shared “Green” kiddush American presidential election of 1940 by Friday 13 February Shekalim (Mishpatim - 25 Shevat) aviation hero Charles Saturday 14 February Lindbergh. Lindbergh speaks against American intervention Friday 20 February Rosh Chodesh Adar in World War II and openly criticizes Friday 20 February Terumah (2 Adar) the “Jewish Race” for trying to force Saturday 21 February Guest preacher: Rabbi Dr Kate Briggs American involvement in the war. His election slogan is in fact, “Vote for Friday 27 February Zachor (Tetzaveh - 9 Adar) Lindbergh or Vote for War!” Saturday 28 February This session was postponed from last year and will now take place on Wednesdays 18 and 25 February 2015 UJIA Legacy Mission Starting at 7.45 pm. From Darkness to Light: A Legacy mission like no other Participants are asked to obtain and read 14 to 24 April 2015: Poland and Israel the book in advance. Join UJIA for this extraordinary journey in the footsteps of the Jewish story. Riding4Reform 2015 This is an unusual, and very special, UJIA Legacy Mission. You will experience the intense, contrasting emotions of the Jewish story, first in Poland, The 12th annual remembering the darkest days of the Jewish experience, then in Israel, seeing Riding4Reform fiveday the rebirth of the Jewish story in a modern nation state. bike ride is just around the corner! This Part 1 – Poland (3 days) unforgettable experience In partnership with March of the Living UK, we will visit Auschwitz- is an opportunity to Birkenau, Belzec and Majdanek, as well as historic Jewish sites in Poland. meet Reform and Progressive Israelis, Then we will retrace the steps of the March of Death, the actual route which visit IMPJ communities and enjoy the countless numbers of Jewish people were forced to take on their way to beautiful scenery that Israel has to offer. the gas chambers at Birkenau. This time, it will be a March of the Living Riding4Reform is an unforgettable ride - re-affirming the undying spirit of the Jewish people. through the width of the Galilee, passing by the Carmel region and Emek Jez- Part 2 – Israel (7 days) reel, and a chance to support Israel and This spirit will be vividly illustrated in the second leg of the trip, when we Reform Judaism. visit Israel. The 7 days we are in the country will take us from the ancient Following feedback from the past year majesty of Jerusalem to the beauty of the Galil to the bustling metropolis of the organisers have decided to make the Tel Aviv. We will see Israel in all its contrasts and get an insight into some light route easier so that more people can of its current major challenges. We will also have the privilege of being in participate. Combined with the original Israel for both Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut. “challenging” track and the walking track, the R4R event is suitable for all From Darkness to Light will be an unforgettable experience, deepening levels of riders and walkers. your knowledge and connection to the modern day Jewish story, as you For the first time in its history, the ride share this journey with a great group of people. will take place in April, hitting the road Mission Cost £1,999. on Sunday, 26 April and ending the ride To express an interest, or for more information, including a at the sea of Galilee on Thursday, 30 brochure, please contact Director of Legacies and Planned April. Giving, Harvey Bratt Join those who have already confirmed their participation and send an e-mail T 020 7424 6431 E [email protected] with a picture and a few words about See more at: http://www.ujia.org/event/legacy-march- yourself to [email protected] living/#sthash.pPcUbTcU.dpuf

Highlight, February 2015 - Shevat/Adar 5775 9 Dates for Your Diary

February March S 1 Introduction to Everyday Jewish Living, S 1 BeaTles of Shushan rehearsal, 10-11 am 1.00-2.30 pm at the Shul M 2 M 2 T 3 T 3 CCJ meeting on Sacred Music, from W 4 Tu B’Shvat 7.45 pm at Catford Synagogue Th 5 Talmud Study, 10.30-11.45 am W 4 Erev Purim Reading the Megillah in the Shul F 6 Th 5 PURIM S 7 Yitro - Tu B’Shvat Shabbat Service led Talmud Study, 10.30-11.45 am by the Cheder F 6 S 8 No Cheder today! Introduction to Everyday Jewish Living, S 7 Ki Tissa 10-11 am S 8 The BeaTles of Shushan live, 10.30 BeaTles of Shushan rehearsal, am at the Shul 11.15 am-12.45 pm at the Shul M 9 Torah Text Study Gp, 7.30 pm at the Shul M 9 Torah Text Study Gp, 7.30 pm at the Shul T 10 T 10 W 11 Social Centre, 10.30 am to 2.30 pm, W 11 Social Centre, 10.30 am to 2.30 pm at talk by Stephen Ison of Jewish Care the Synagogue Th 12 Talmud Study, 10.30-11.45 am Th 12 Talmud Study, 10.30-11.45 am F 13 F 13 jeneration on campus weekend for Sixth formers at Nottingham University S 14 Parah (Vayakhel-Pekudei) S 14 Shekalim S 15 S 15 Introduction to Everyday Jewish Living, M 16 10-11 am T 17 Synagogue AGM, 8 pm at the Shul BeaTles of Shushan rehearsal, W 18 1.00-2.30 pm at the Shul Th 19 Talmud Study, 10.30-11.45 am M 16 Knit and Natter, 2.30-4 pm at Pauline’s F 20 T 17 S 21 Rosh Chodesh Nisan W 18 Book Study Session, 7.45 pm at the Shul Ha-Chodesh (Vayikra) Th 19 Talmud Study, 10.30-11.45 am S 22 F 20 Rosh Chodesh Adar M 23 Torah Text Study Gp, 7.30 pm at the Shul S 21 Terumah Guest Preacher: Rabbi Dr Kate Briggs T 24 Jewish Book Week opens at 8 pm at W 25 Social Centre, 10.30 am to 2.30 pm Kings Place, London N1 at the Synagogue S 22 Cheder Half Term Th 26 Talmud Study, 10.30-11.45 am M 23 Torah Text Study Gp, 7.30 pm at the Shul F 27 T 24 S 28 Ha-Gadol (Tzav) W 25 Social Centre, 10.30 am to 2.30 pm, BST begins (clocks go forward one hour) visit from chiropractor Jason Gould S 29 Book Study Session, 7.45 pm at the Shul M 30 Th 26 Talmud Study, 10.30-11.45 am T 31 Shirah (Beshallach) F 27 S 28 Zachor

Copy date for March Highlight: Sunday 15 February 10 Contact nos. for subcommittees and other groups BR5 and 6 and Friends: Kiddush Rota: Jean Garelick, 01689 850668 Harriet Posner, 020 8291 9775 [email protected] [email protected] Library: Board of Deputies Rep.: Judi Sheffrin, 07968 324981 Joe Millis, 020 8299 3458 [email protected] [email protected] Membership Inquiries: Caring Community: Janet Burlem, 020 8460 5460 Pauline Jeffree, 020 8650 4860 [email protected] [email protected] Newsletter Editor: Cheder Head Teacher: Bob Symonds, 020 8402 2197 Vicki Ashmore, 020 8290 4220 [email protected] [email protected] Religion and Ritual: Cheder Security: Larry Shall, 01732 873361 Tamir Hargittai, 01689 600142 [email protected] [email protected] SACRE Choir: Samantha Barnett, 020 8467 8868 Dianne Mathews, 01689 826096 [email protected] [email protected] School Visits Coordinator: Communications: Marilyn Freeman, 020 8650 7178 Judi Sheffrin, 07968 324981 [email protected] [email protected] SE10 and Beyond Education: Michelle Brooks-Evans, 020 8293 4999 [email protected] Barbara Kurtz, 020 8650 1284 [email protected] Social Centre: Gan Yeladim: Dianne Mathews, 01689 826096 Sue Bowyer, 020 8464 6738 [email protected] [email protected] Subscriptions: Tracy Frankel, 01732 451977 Janet Posner, 020 8650 7521 [email protected] [email protected]

Horaay Cheder: Security: Dani Hall, 07740 282 562 Eric Lewis, 020 8460 4353 [email protected] [email protected] Website: Housing, Health and Safety: Kieron Hyams, 07980 647108 Graham Harris, 020 8656 7611 [email protected] [email protected] Youth: Israel Desk: Linda de Lange, 020 8858 6206 Hugh Lask, 020 8467 0470 [email protected] [email protected]

J.J.B.S.: Janet Posner, 020 8650 7521 Find us on Facebook! [email protected] www.facebook.com/BromleyReformSynagogue or Tweet us @BromleyShul) ...

Highlight, February 2015 - Shevat/Adar 5775 11 A constituent of the Movement for Reform Judaism – www.reformjudaism.org.uk

Highlight Advertising Fill this Space! Advertise your business and sup- port your shul by advertising in Highlight. £80 will secure you a box measuring 100 mm x 120 mm for a whole year (11 issues) Contact Dianne Mathews ([email protected]; 01689 826096) or the Editor ([email protected]) today.

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