PROGRAM GUIDE

FALL 2020 | 5781

2020–2021 | 5781 1 Dear Members of B’nai ,

Our building may be closed, but our community is open. For months now we have reiterated this vital message about our beloved B’nai Israel Congregation. As we gradually resume certain in-person gatherings, such as Shabbat morning services with limited attendance, we are still planning to host the vast majority of our programs and events in the virtual space.

We are excited to present the B’nai Israel Program Guide for Fall 2020. The Guide offers an overview of the programs and events that shape our active and dynamic community. Unless otherwise noted, the programs and events listed in this Guide will take place virtually. This Guide covers events that take place through January 2021. The Guide for Winter and Spring 2021 will be published later this fall.

We know that the pandemic has presented numerous challenges to us as individuals, as families, and as a community. We hope that the programs and events planned for the season ahead will engage you in a meaningful way, sustaining us, empowering us, and enabling us to continue forward on our Jewish journeys.

We wish to express sincere gratitude and appreciation to the staff and volunteers whose names appear throughout the pages of this Guide, and to all of you for your steadfast support of B’nai Israel. Please note that all dates and times are subject to change. Updates will circulate in the Scroll, Upcoming Events emails, and at www.bnaiisraelcong.org throughout the year.

May 5781 be a year of health and well-being for each of us,

Michael J. Safra Mitchell H. Berkowitz Senior Rabbi Associate Rabbi

2 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE Key ADULT EDUCATION TABLE OF Lectures, courses, and other programs that promote lifelong Jewish learning through the Sara and Samuel J. Lessans Adult Education Institute. CONTENTS

BISNS B’nai Israel Schilit Nursery School programs designed for Worship...... 2 families enrolled in the nursery school. September...... 8 October...... 12 FAMILY Programs designed for all B’nai Israel children and their parents, November ...... 18 regardless of where they attend school. December ...... 24

HAZAK January...... 28 Lectures for active retirees, typically one per month. Instructors...... 32 B’nai Mitzvah...... 37 LIBRARY Lectures, films, and programs sponsored by the Blumberg-Zalis Executive Committee & Board of Governors. . . . 38 Family Library. Committee Chairs ...... 39 L.I.F.E. LECTURE Social Action Collections...... 40 “Learning Is For Everyone” Lecture Series with speakers on a Staff Directory ...... 41 broad range of relevant Jewish topics.

MEN’S CLUB Social programming that builds community, typically for B’nai Israel men. Get Social With Us

SISTERHOOD During this time of social distancing, make sure to stay Dynamic programming that enriches our families, our synagogue, connected with us via social media for latest updates, and the greater community. Facebook Live events, and more. SOCIAL ACTION Collections and events to give back to the community and engage in tikkun olam (repair of the world).

TALMUD TORAH Join our group on FB Events for families with children enrolled in the Talmud Torah. https://www.facebook.com/groups/BnaiIsraelCong/

YOUTH Events for school-aged children, including, but not limited to, Follow us on Instagram our four youth groups (Bonim, Machar, , USY). Part of https://www.instagram.com/bnaiisraelcong/ the Carl and Doris Lane Youth Department.

2020–2021 | 5781 1 WORSHIP

WORSHIP

Join Our Services by Video Livestream or Telephone

Some services are available for limited in-person attendance with advance registration.

More information about all of our services at www.bnaiisraelcong.org/dailyminyan.

2 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE WORSHIP WEEKDAYS SHABBAT

Daily Minyan Friday Evening Services 7:15 AM Monday–Friday 6:15 PM 8:00 PM Sunday–Thursday Our Friday evening services are participatory, filled with 9:00 AM Sundays and these Federal holidays: singing and ruah (spirit). Our rabbis share a teaching related to the parsha (Torah portion). Periodically, our services are September 7 (Labor Day) enhanced with special themes or followed by dinners and November 26 (Thanksgiving Day) programs. December 25 January 1 (New Year’s Day) January 18 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day) Saturday Morning Services 9:00 AM February 15 (Presidents’ Day) Our Shabbat morning services are celebratory and May 31 (Memorial Day) participatory, with baby namings, b’nai mitzvah, aufrufen July 4 (Independence Day) (aliyot for couples prior to their weddings), and other lifecycle events. Contact the clergy with questions. Minyan on other Federal holidays begins at the regular time. All changes to the regular service times are publicized on our website and in the Scroll.

THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF OUR COMMUNITY IS OUR TOP PRIORITY.

For any in-person worship services or events that take place indoors at B’nai Israel Congregation, please visit

www.bnaiisraelcong.org/guidelines www.bnaiisraelcong.org/guidelines for a detailed listing of our safety protocols.

2020–2021 | 5781 3 WORSHIP WEEKLY LEARNING FOR ADULTS ADULTS Year-At-A-Glance Friday Morning Torah Study (formerly Shabbat Morning Torah Study) Fridays (selected) September 19–20 Rosh Hashanah 10:00 – 11:00 AM September 28 Yom Kippur Engage with the weekly parsha during these interactive October 3–9 Sukkot discussions led by community members and by clergy. Contact Wendy Fanaroff with questions [email protected]( ). October 10 Shemini Atzeret October 11 Simhat Torah 9/11/2020 Nitzavim-Vayeilech November 13–14 Artist-in-Residence 9/25/2020 Ha’Azinu December 6 Mitzvah Day 10/16/2020 Bereshit 10/23/2020 Noach December 11–18 11/6/2020 Vayera January 2 HAZAK Shabbat 11/20/2020 Toldot January 16 Sisterhood Shabbat 12/4/2020 Vayishlach January 23 Social Action Shabbat 12/11/2020 Vayeshev January 30 Teen Shabbat 1/8/2021 Shemot 1/22/2021 Bo February 6 Inclusion Shabbat February 13 Men’s Club Shabbat Talmud on Tuesdays Lunch & Learn February 26 Purim (formerly Shabbat Afternoon Talmud Study) March 13 Volunteer Shabbat with Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz March 28–April 4 Pesah Resumes on Tuesday, October 13 and continues weekly May 17-18 Shavuot 12:30–1:30 PM June 5 Summer Send-Off A Shabbat afternoon favorite moves to the Tuesday lunch hour! We will continue our exploration of the talmudic tractate Beitzah, *All Jewish festivals begin on the preceding evening. focusing upon the celebration of our festivals. Newcomers are more than welcome to join us. No prior knowledge is necessary. L.I.F.E. LECTURES September 13 Debbie Cenziper October 25 Joan Branham November 15 Ambassador Ido Aharoni For additional details and to register January 31 Ambassador Akbar Ahmed for any of our programs, please visit February 21 Steven Weisman www.bnaiisraelcong.org/calendar. March 14 Marc Brettler May 2 JTS Evening of Learning

4 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE WORSHIP SHABBAT MAGIC YOUTH FAMILY

Tot Shabbat Family Minyan (Ages 5 and under with parent) NEW 10:15 AM 9:30 AM Time! Tune in for these special Shabbat morning services with September 12 November 21 meaningful learning, spirited prayer, and engaging Torah reading. September 26 December 5 All are welcome. Contact Rabbi Berkowitz with questions October 3 December 19 ([email protected]). October 24 January 9 September 12 November 7 December 19 November 7 January 23 October 3 November 21 January 16 October 24 Junior Congregation (Grades K–6) Weekly (when there is no Family Minyan) 10:30 AM Shabbat Magic Opening Day Teen Minyan (Grades 7–12) Saturday, September 12 10:30 AM September 12 November 7 Join us for a magical (and October 17 December 5 virtual) return to our Shabbat youth services! Birthday Shabbatot September 12 November 7 January 9 October 3 December 5

Grade Shabbatot 2s – October 24 3s – March 6 Pre-K – December 5 Kindergarten – November 14 1st Grade – November 14 2nd Grade – January 9 3rd Grade – December 5 4th Grade – December 12 5th Grade – October 31 6th Grade – November 21

2020–2021 | 5781 5 WORSHIP HIGH HOLIDAYS 5781 WORKSHOPS SELICHOT zegilq Preparing for the Days of Awe: Israeli-Style Selihot Night Live: with Netta Asner-Minster, Congregational Shlicha A National Pre-Selihot Program Tuesday, September 1 Saturday, September 12 7:30–8:30 PM 9:00 PM Learn about the unique events and programs that take Join virtually for learning sessions and place during the month of Elul in Israel. From selichot musical moments. This coast-to-coast tours to Elul programs, this month offers ways to connect Conservative Movement experience will enrich our High for religious and secular communities in Israeli society. Holiday preparation. Rabbi Michael Safra will lead a The congregational shlicha program is made possible by a session at 9:00 PM, “God Isn’t Perfect, So Why Should I partnership with the of Greater Washington. Be?”

Past, Present, and Future: Reflecting on the Havdalah & Selihot Service Year that Was and Will Be with B’nai Israel Clergy with Rabbi Michael Safra Saturday, September 12 Tuesday, September 8 10:00 PM 7:30–8:30 PM Our cantors lead us in Havdalah and a medley of High The High Holiday season is a moment for reflection. We Holiday tunes, leading into the Selihot service. The look back in time and we look ahead to the future. The haunting melodies of this special service, traditionally liturgy stays the same, but the way that we relate to it changes as we recited at midnight, prepare us spiritually for the intensity change. We will look at the verses of the Hebrew Bible which give of the High Holiday season. Join us virtually for Havdalah structure to the Musaf service (Malchuyout, Zichronot, and Shofrot), and the Selihot service led by our clergy. and understand how we can derive meaning from the liturgy this year. Selihot Concert & Learning It’s Complicated: Our Relationship Status with Hadar (www.hadar.org) with God Monday, September 14 with Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz 7:45–9:00 PM Tuesday, September 15 Join Hadar for a communal virtual Selihot 7:30–8:30 PM with Joey Weisenberg, co-director of the Maintaining a relationship with the Divine is not always Rising Song Institute, and Rav Aviva Richman, Rosh an easy task. We have expectations for what we derive at Hadar. Equal parts conversation, prayer, study from the relationship, and we know that we must also invest ourselves and song, we will delve into the lyrics of Joey’s songs, in order for the relationship to grow and flourish. Anu Amekha is a premiere never-before-seen videos of Joey and the Hadar short, yet powerful, piyyut (liturgical poem) from the Yom Kippur Ensemble and join together to sing melodies of teshuvah liturgy. Join me in exploring how it highlights the possibilities, and the and celebration. challenges, for maintaining a relationship with God.

6 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE WORSHIP HIGH HOLIDAYS 5781

DAYS OF AWE REFLECTION & LEARNING SERIES

Let’s Talk about Race Israel, Judaism, America: Tuesday, September 22 Keeping the Connections Strong 7:30 PM with Rabbi Yerachmiel & Nava Panel Discussion with Meiersdorf Jay Gruber and Marla Wednesday, September 23 Schulman, moderated 7:00 PM by Hal Ossman, We don’t need statistics to know we are Executive Director living in a time of crisis. In Israel, the Recent events have us all thinking about the challenges of divide between secular and religious systemic racism. What does racial equity mean? How does one communities leaves many questioning their connection to the begin to grapple with a system we may not see and did not cause, Jewish religion. In America, political polarization prompts many to and yet may be responsible for perpetuating? Is it possible for question the “other’s” loyalty to Israel. All the while, connections a big-tent community to talk openly and frankly about values between the American and Israeli communities seem to be without becoming mired in the polarizing politics of division? weakening, particularly among our youth. How do we respond? Jay Gruber is Chief of Police and Vice-President for Public It begins with relationships, followed by creativity and vision. Safety at Georgetown University, where he is working with Rabbi Yerach Meiersdorf is rabbi of Noam, the Masorti youth officers to better understand race issues, engage in dialogue, and movement in Israel. Nava Meiersdorf is studying to become a retool community policing principles to ensure safety, security, rabbi at Schechter Rabbinical Seminary in Israel. The Meiersdorfs and comfort for all students. Marla Schulman is Immediate were raised in Israel’s Orthodox world and grew to appreciate the Past President of B’nai Israel and chair of the Faith Community pluralistic aspects of other movements. Together, they led the first Outreach Committee. She is leading our congregation’s efforts to Kabbalat Shabbat at the special section at the Kotel reserved for learn more about racial equity and find ways to partner with other egalitarian worship. They bring their unique perspectives and faith communities and communities of color in our area. appreciation for the totality of the Jewish religious spectrum to their work. Together, they will lead us in an exploration of the future of Jewish, American, and Israeli partnership.

“Ask the Rabbi” Forum with Rabbi Michael Safra Thursday, September 24 7:30 PM This Yom Kippur afternoon tradition will take place this year during the week between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. All questions and inquiries are welcome! Please submit your questions in advance to Susan ([email protected]).

To register for these programs, please visit www.bnaiisraelcong.org/daysofawe.

2020–2021 | 5781 7 SEPTEMBER

SEPTEMBER

Labor Day Monday, September 7 | Minyan at 9:00 AM & 8:00 PM

Rosh Hashanah Saturday, September 19–Sunday, September 20 Yom Kippur Monday, September 28

8 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE SEPTEMBER

HIGH HOLIDAY WORKSHOP Virtual Cooking for Rosh Preparing for the Days of Awe: Hashanah Israeli-Style with Paula Shoyer Wednesday, September 9 with Netta Asner-Minster Sisterhood Tuesday, September 1 7:00 PM Adult EducationAdult 7:30–8:30 PM Known as “The Kosher Baker,” See page 6 for details. Paula Shoyer is a French-trained pastry chef and the author of four cookbooks, with one more The congregational shlicha program is made possible by a partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. on the way. Join us for a cooking demonstration via Zoom and maybe you’ll find a new dish for your holiday dinners. Come ready to ask questions and cook (if you would like to)!

HIGH HOLIDAY WORKSHOP Past, Present, and Future: Reflecting Israel’s Most Daring Operations on the Year that Was and Will Be (Session 1 of 5) with Rabbi Michael Safra with Netta Asner-Minster Tuesday, September 8 Thursday, September 10 Adult EducationAdult

7:30–8:30 PM Affairs Israel 7:30-8:30 PM See page 6 for details. Join our shlicha, Netta Asner-Minster, for the first session in the series exploring Israel’s most daring operations. Learn how Israel created an intelligence agency that has become world-renowned and about the less-known Book Discussion Group fascinating operations that showcase the Mossad’s unique The Promise by David Spiegel abilites. Wednesday, September 9

Library 11:30 AM–12:30 PM Sessions continue on October 21, November 11, December 3, A priest in King Solomon’s Jerusalem and January 28. temple is desperately trying to The congregational shlicha program is made possible by a save two mysterious artifacts that are partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. connected to the sacred religious rites of ancient Israel. When a celestial messenger appears, he agrees to give the artifacts to her in exchange for a seemingly benevolent promise. Now, in modern day United States, three people—two men Shabbat Magic and a woman—must deal with the promise’s unintended Opening Day consequences. Saturday, September 12

For additional details and to register for any Join us for a magical of our programs, please visit (and virtual) return to our www.bnaiisraelcong.org/calendar. Shabbat youth services!

2020–2021 | 5781 9 SEPTEMBER

Selihot Night Live: A National Pre-Selihot Program Saturday, September 12 The Mindfulness Ritual 9:00 PM Center See page 6 for details. ShMA at B’nai Israel Havdalah & Selihot Service Yoga with Jeremy Jacobsohn with B’nai Israel Clergy Sunday, September 13 Saturday, September 12 8:00 AM Ritual 10:00 PM Stretch your body and mind as you look See page 6 for details. towards a new year. This program may take place outdoors, weather permitting. Check our website calendar (bnaiisraelcong.org/ Youth Department calendar) for up to date information. Presented by the Opening Activities Mindfulness Task Force of the Adult Education Committee.

Bonim: Icebreaker Palooza (Grades K–2) Sunday, September 13 12:30–1:30 PM Welcome to Bonim and welcome back! Join Bonim for Oxon Hill Cemetery Memorial Service our welcome event and get to know everyone with some Sunday, September 13 10:30 AM fun icebreakers. Ritual The service will be conducted on site by Rabbi Matthew Machar: Icebreaker Palooza (Grades 3–5) Simon and Cantor Josh Perlman. Sunday, September 13 1:45–2:45 PM Break the ice into Machar and enjoy some ice cream at Garden of Remembrance Memorial Service home. Sunday, September 13 10:00 AM with Community Clergy Kadima: Who wants to be a Kadimanik Game Ritual 2:00 PM with Rabbi Safra and Cantor Perlman Show (Grades 6–8) Attendance is limited to 75 people. Once filled, families will Monday, September 14 be invited to join through a live video stream while at the 3:00–4:00 PM memorial park or from home. For information, please visit Learn about what it takes to be in Kadima with this fun game show. www.gardenofremembrance.org or call 301-428-3000.

USY: Virtual Lounge Night with Icebreakers (Grades 9–12) Judean Memorial Gardens Kever Avot Service Monday, September 14 Sunday, September 13 5:00–6:00 PM 10:30 AM–12:00 PM Ritual Hang out with your USY friends and get to know some Join Rabbi Berkowitz at Judean Memorial Gardens while new ones! visiting the graves of your loved ones.

10 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE SEPTEMBER

L.I.F.E. LECTURE MONDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES Citizen 865: The Hunt for DISCUSSION Hitler’s Hidden Soldiers in Library AKA Nadia America Monday, September 21 with Debbie Cenziper 7:30–8:30 PM L.I.F.E. Lecture L.I.F.E. Sunday, September 13 The award-winning Israeli film,AKA Nadia, is 7:30 PM about a happily married mother of two named Citizen 865 is the powerful story of the search for the men Maya who leads a seemingly perfect life until her hidden past of an obscure SS training camp in Trawniki, Poland, who comes to light. Free with Amazon Prime or $2.99 to rent. helped the SS murder 1.7 million Polish Jews. OSI would (1hr. 55 min.; English) identify more than a dozen men who were hiding in plain sight in cities and suburbs across America. (Jakob Reimer, aka Citizen 865, was found in Lake Carmel, NY, and tried in federal court in Brooklyn; James Comey was U.S. Attorney High Holidays 5781 for that district and weighed in the decision.) DAYS OF AWE REFLECTION Selihot Concert & Learning & LEARNING SERIES with Hadar Monday, September 14 7:45–9:00 PM See page 7. See page 6 for details. Adult EducationAdult

HIGH HOLIDAY WORKSHOP It’s Complicated: Our Relationship Status with God with Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz Tuesday, September 15

Adult EducationAdult 7:30–8:30 PM See page 6 for details.

Speaker Series: The Outlook for the Economy in 2021 and Beyond Wednesday, September 16 HAZAK with David Sotsky 7:30 PM Our HAZAK programming will resume in early Hear about what 2021 may hold in this first 2021 with details to be announced. lecture of the Men’s Club and Sisterhood

Men’s Club/Sisterhood Men’s Speaker Series.

2020–2021 | 5781 11 OCTOBER

OCTOBER

Sukkot Saturday, October 3–Friday, October 9 Shemini Atzeret Saturday, October 10 Simhat Torah Sunday, October 11

12 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE OCTOBER

Talmud on Tuesdays Lunch & Learn (formerly Shabbat Afternoon Talmud Study) Writing RBG: How to with Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz Fit a Tiny, Huge Jewish Resumes on Tuesday, October 13 and continues weekly American Icon into a Book 12:30–1:30 PM with Debbie Levy EducationAdult See page 4 for details. Tuesday, October 6 6:30 PM BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP Supreme Court justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is a modern The Hilltop by Asaf Gavron feminist icon, but Ruth “Kiki” Bader wasn’t a firebrand Wednesday, October 14 Library feminist as a child. Becoming RBG focuses on the story of her 11:30 AM–12:30 PM evolution, from quiet child to inquisitive student to brilliant Discussion Leader: Netta Asner-Minster professor to creative courtroom lawyer to first Jewish woman Mordantly funny and deeply moving, this award- on the Supreme Court of the United States. Through RBG’s winning novel about life in a West Bank settlement story, readers see that looking outside oneself can make all skewers the complex, often absurd reality of life in Israel. the difference between being a bystander and being a change maker. Join Debbie as she shares stories about the delights of Prophet Sharing: The Roles of writing about RBG. the Prophets with Rabbis Nissan Antine, Mitchell Presented by the Arts Task Force of the Adult Education Berkowitz, Gary Pokras, Adam Committee. Cosponsored by the Talmud Torah and Youth Raskin, Michael Safra, & Baht Weiss

Department. EducationAdult Thursday, October 15 (continuing for 11 more sessions, skipping November 26, December 24 & 31, The Book of the concluding on January 21) with Steve Kerbel 9:30–11:00 AM Wednesday, October 7 (continuing six $75 for B’nai Israel members or more Wednesday mornings, concluding Friends of Haberman Institute November 18) $90 for general public

Adult EducationAdult 9:30–11:00 AM History thinks of the prophets as $80 Friends of the Haberman Institute or superheroes: people who can see B’nai Israel Members the future, speak with God, and $95 General Public communicate inspiring messages. Travel back to the sources and study But how is the prophetic message selections from the books of Maccabees I & received? Nobody wants to hear that II as we explore the story of the war against society is doomed unless people make changes the Assyrians and the formation of the last independent they are not prepared to make. With all their Jewish government for 2000 years. As obtaining these texts eccentricities, it is easy to dismiss the prophets. can be difficult, a reader will be provided for all students. This was as true in ancient times as it is today. Zoom information will be provided once registration is Through text study, our diverse group of rabbis explores received. Presented by the Haberman Institute for Jewish the role of the prophet in ancient times to understand the Studies. implications of the prophetic message for today. Presented by the Haberman Institute for .

2020–2021 | 5781 13 OCTOBER

SUKKOT PROGRAMMING Happenings in the Hut

Sukkot Under the Stars (Outdoor Service) Sukkat Shalom: A Shelter of Peace Friday, October 2 with Eliana Light, Artist-in-Residence

Ritual 7:00 PM Monday, October 5 The roofs of our sukkot must provide sufficient shade, 7:30 PM while also allowing us to see up to the stars of the night In the evening service, we ask the Holy One sky. Sukkot reminds us that we are both sheltered and EducationAdult to spread a “sukkah of your peace” over vulnerable. Gather safely outdoors, weather permitting, us. What can we learn from this image? for this service to welcome Shabbat and Sukkot. Exploring some midrash on the sukkah itself, consider how this prayer, and the evening service in general, can have resonance in our lives today. Raised in Reserve Your Sukkah Nights Memphis, TN on soul music and synagogue life, Eliana’s Monday–Thursday, October 5–8 passion for Jewish life and learning shines through all her 5:00–8:00 PM Family work. Eliana’s goal is to help individuals take ownership No sukkah? No problem! Reserve a time for you and of their Judaism. She has released two albums of your family to eat dinner in our physically-distanced original Jewish music. In 2017, Eliana founded the G!D separate Fanaroff Family sukkahs on the intermediate Project, an educational initiative focused on accessible, days of the Sukkot festival. meaningful conversations about G!D and spirituality. Eliana graduated from the Jewish Theological Seminary with a Masters in Experiential Jewish Education in 2016 and is based in Durham, NC.

14 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE OCTOBER

SUKKOT PROGRAMMING Happenings in the Hut

Candy Sukkah Building Contests Singing in the Sukkah Wednesday, October 7 Thursday, October 8

Youth 4:00–4:45 PM (Bonim: Grades K–2) 7:00 PM Family 4:50–5:30 PM (Machar: Grades 3–6) Join our shlicha, Netta Asner-Minster, for a medley of Does it have enough walls? Can you see the stars Israeli Sukkot songs and fun facts about celebrating Sukkot through its roof? Gather up your candy, your creativity, in Israel. and build your own candy sukkah! The congregational shlicha program is made possible by a partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington.

A Time for Everything: Sisterhood Virtual Simhat Torah Celebration with Eliana Light Lunch and Learn Sunday, October 11 with Cantor Bolts 9:15 AM Thursday, October 8

Sisterhood Sing and celebrate Torah with Eliana Light. Fun, meaningful, 12:00 PM educational, and even interactive! Join Cantor Bolts for a discussion of what Sukkot has Torah Talmud to teach us during this season.

2020–2021 | 5781 15 OCTOBER

Hagigat HaSiddur Program Friday, October 16 6:15 PM The Mindfulness Family Last year’s 3rd grade class will complete the siddur family Center education program. They will participate in our Kabbalat at B’nai Israel Shabbat service where they will receive their personalized ShMA siddur. New Year, New You: A Mindfulness Walk with Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz Sunday, October 18 Political Forum 4:00–6:00 PM Sunday, October 18 A new year, a new start to reading the Torah, and a new 10:00 AM you. Lace up your shoes and join us for a mindfulness walk,

Men’s Club Men’s Join the Men’s Club as we present some of the key candidates infused with moments of reflection based on the sacred texts who are running for political office in the upcoming elections. of our tradition. (The event will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather.)

Presented by the Mindfulness Taskforce of the Adult Weekday Services: From Education Committee. Beginning to End with Cantors Josh Perlman and Sarah Bolts Sunday, October 18 (and Portnoy on “Portnoy”: Discussing

Adult EducationAdult continuing for 7 more sessions) Philip Roth (z”l) 11:30 AM–12:15 PM with Rabbi Mindy Avra Portnoy Monday, October 19 Learn to lead weekday services (continuing for 5 more sessions) and/or to chant Torah. These practical skills-focused classes Adult EducationAdult 7:30–8:45 PM are set up as units; participants may sign up for one unit or “Portnoy” is the Russian word for “tailor,” but for both. the late writer Philip Roth changed its meaning forever when he published the best-selling book Portnoy’s Complaint in Unit 1: Intro to Chanting Torah with Cantor Bolts 1969. This 6-week class will focus on the life and works of October 18, 25, and November 8, 15 Roth. Our study will highlight the different stages of his life and writings beginning with Goodbye Columbus (1959) and Unit 2: Intro to Leading Weekday Services with Cantor Josh continuing until Nemesis (2010). Themes will include: Jews November 22, and December 6, 13, 20 in America, families, mortality, sex and love, and politics, as well as his views of women, his love of baseball, and his attachment to Newark. We will also discuss some of the reactions to his award-winning work, especially in the Jewish community. The reading of Goodbye Columbus or Portnoy’s Complaint before the first session is recommended but not required.

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MONDAY NIGHT MOVIE DISCUSSION L.I.F.E. LECTURE Felix and Meira Destination: Holy of Holies Monday, October 19

Library An Archaeological Walk Through the 7:30–8:30 PM Jerusalem Temple Meira, a Hasidic Jewish wife and mother, and with Joan Branham L.I.F.E. Lecture L.I.F.E. Félix, a secular loner mourning the recent Sunday, October 25 death of his estranged father, living vastly 7:30 PM different realities mere blocks away from one another, King Herod designed and built the Jerusalem Temple in the attempt to draw each other out and to love each other despite late first century BCE. Herod wanted a grander complex their differences. Free with Amazon Prime or $3.99 to rent. than the one hastily constructed after the return from the (1hr. 45 min.; English) Babylonian exile. His Temple lasted less than a century, as it was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. In its time, it was, and continues to be, a powerful symbol of sacred space. It Israel’s Most Daring Operations (Session 2 of 5) has been emulated, co-opted, exploited, and reinterpreted by Wednesday, October 21 religious traditions, from early churches and synagogues to 7:30–8:30 PM Orlando’s evangelical theme park. This illustrated talk will Sessions continue on November 11, December 3, and January serve as a guide through the Jerusalem Temple by following Israel Affairs Israel 28. See page 9 for details. in the footsteps of the High Priest and worshippers (including Jesus) and navigating the barriers of sanctity and systems of blood, purity, sacrifice, and gender. Cosponsored by the Health Awareness Weekend Biblical Archeology Forum and Biblical Archeology Society Friday, October 23–Sunday, October 25 of Northern Virginia. Join the Men’s Club as we present a Health Awareness

Men’s Club Men’s Weekend, featuring important health professionals who address such topics as mental health challenges today and KADIMA (Grades 6–8) staying healthy as the community experiences a significant Cook-Off pandemic. Sunday, October 25 Youth 12:30–1:30 PM Show off your cooking skills in this Iron Chef style 1st Grade Family Program: Jewish Symbols competition. Sunday, October 25 9:00–10:00 AM Learn and share together as we explore the importance and USY (Grades 9–12) beauty of Jewish Symbols. Our program will include fun

Talmud Torah Talmud Scavenger Hunt activities, music, and art projects, as well as a chance to Sunday, October 25 connect and build community learning. Youth 1:45–2:45 PM Search, run, and find in this crazy competition.

2020–2021 | 5781 17 NOVEMBER

NOVEMBER

Jewish Book Month Dedicated to the celebration of Jewish literature, film, theatre, art and music.

Thanksgiving Thursday, November 26 | Minyan at 9:00 AM & 8:00 PM

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NOVEMBER IS Getting Ready for JEWISH BOOK MONTH

Please Join Us for the Following Events Presented by the Blumberg-Zalis Family Library in Honor of Jewish Book Month

Sunday, November 1 Presentation of The Lives of Sacred Ecology: Divine Energy Isaac Stern by Local Author in Heaven and Earth during David Schoenbaum Kabbalat Shabbat See page 20. with Debra Band Sunday, November 1 7:30 PM Wednesday, November 11 B’nai Book Group Discusses Hidden in Plain As Shabbat arrives, the Shekhina enters our world and Sight by Karen Batshaw souls, enacting the exchange of human and divine energy See page 20. that inspires our Friday evening traditions. In this slide- discussion, Debra Band shares her illuminated paintings from Kabbalat Shabbat: the Grand Unification, exploring how our Kabbalat Shabbat customs, drawn from the Sunday, November 22 Jewish mystical tradition and the community of Rabbi Presentation by Local Author Karen Batshaw Isaac Luria, support this divine ecology in ritual, blessing See page 22. and song.

Copies of Kabbalat Shabbat: The Grand Unification will be available for purchase with personalization at no Monday, November 23 additional charge (10 word limit). Order by October 20 to Monday Night Movie Discussion of My have your copy available at B’nai Israel for pickup during Cousin the week prior to the event. Cost is $37.50 (after a special See page 22. 25% discount on the list price of $49.95).

Presented by the Arts Task Force of the Adult Education Committee.

2020–2021 | 5781 19 NOVEMBER

AUTHOR PRESENTATION The Lives of Isaac Stern with David Schoenbaum Save the Date Library Sunday, November 1 11:00 AM–12:00 PM Sunday, November 8 In celebration of Jewish Book 7:00 PM Month, local author and B’nai Israel member David Schoenbaum will present his new book, The Lives of Isaac Stern. A centennial celebration of the sixty-year career and legacy of Isaac Stern, the first made- VIRTUAL SHMOOZE WITH in-America violin virtuoso and one of the twentieth century’s greatest musicians. Co-Sponsored by the Men’s Club, the THE CANTORS PERLMAN Sisterhood, and the Blumberg-Zalis Family Library.

The Walking Club BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP Sunday, November 8 Hidden in Plain Sight by Karen 9:30–11:30 AM

Library Batshaw Wednesday, November 11 Men’s Club Men’s Join with other Men’s Club members in this new Walking Club. 11:30 AM–12:30 PM Discussion Leader: Estelle Schwalb Anna, a young Jewish woman from Salonika, has gone to live in Athens. Trained as a doctor, Anna masks her faith and her vocation to live as a Christian and avoid BONIM (GRADES K–2) arousing any suspicion. Documenting the terrible, brutal Baking with Bonim occupation of Greece by the Nazis, Hidden in Plain Sight Sunday, November 8 shines a light on the plight of Greece’s Jews and the brave Youth 1:45–2:45 PM attempts of the Archbishop of Athens to protect them. Make some sweet treats with all of your Bonim friends. Following this discussion, join us on Sunday, November 22 as we welcome author Karen Batshaw for a special program.

MACHAR (GRADES 3–5) Jewish Bingo Israel’s Most Daring Operations (Session 3 of 5) Sunday, November 8 Wednesday, November 11 Youth 12:30–1:30 PM 4:00–5:00 PM Get ready to say “bingo” during this fun afternoon program. Sessions continue on December 3 and January 28. See page Israel Affairs Israel 9 for details.

20 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE NOVEMBER

KADIMA & USY (GRADES 6–12) Shabbat with Our Murder Mystery Party Sunday, November 15 Artist-in-Residence Youth 3:00–4:00 PM Find out “who done it” during this interactive program. ELIANA LIGHT Friday–Saturday, November 13–14 The Variety of Women in Judaism Wednesday, November 18 Our artist-in-residence, Eliana Light, will join us virtually 2:00–3:00 PM to participate in services, teach, and lead a Havdalah Join our shlicha, Netta Asner-Minster, for the second session concert. Affairs Israel of ‘Women in Judaism’ for this year. During this session, Netta will be hosting women from different Jewish sects in the U.S. and Israel to share about their practices and beliefs. This session is cosponsored by Sisterhood and Men’s Club.

The congregational shlicha program is made possible by a L.I.F.E. LECTURE partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. Israel’s Political System in the Age of Coronavirus with Ambassador Ido Aharoni SERETIME: ISRAELI MOVIE NIGHT Sunday, November 15 Sallah Shabati L.I.F.E. Lecture L.I.F.E. 10:30 AM Thursday, November 19 Israel’s parliamentarian democracy is facing 7:30–8:30 PM

an unprecedented dual challenge: an historically complex Affairs Israel Join our shlicha, Netta Asner-Minster, for an and prolonged political deadlock coupled with the need to Israeli movie and discussion, exploring the manage a first-of-its-kind health crisis. What are the solutions variety and complexity of Israeli society. We and how can Israel’s uniquely vibrant democracy cope with will be watching Salach Shabati, about Mizrachi Jewish both? In this presentation Ambassador Aharoni will address immigration and their integration into Israeli society. The the unique characteristics of Israel’s political system, pointing discussion that follows will provide more information on this to both its advantages and disadvantages trying to answer the subject and elaborate on the issues expressed in the movie. question of what will happen in the foreseeable future. The congregational shlicha program is made possible by a partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington.

Hearing Men’s Voices: A Men’s Club Monthly Dialogue on Men’s Concerns Sunday, November 15 Jews and Brews 8:00 PM with Rabbi Michael Safra Men’s Club Men’s Men’s Club members meet monthly for open conversation Thursday, November 19 on personal, societal, cultural, religious, and political, and/or 7:30 PM Men’s Club Men’s economic concerns. BYOB and join Rabbi Safra for a thoughtful discussion on Jewish values related to racisim and racial equity.

2020–2021 | 5781 21 NOVEMBER

Sixth Grade B’nai Mitzvah Experience: Part 1 MONDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES Saturday, November 21 DISCUSSION 10:00 AM–12:00 PM The Cousin Library Family Sixth grade families join together for Shabbat services and Winner of the Sundance, Venice and programming geared towards bar/bat mitzvah. An event not Film Festival to be missed! Monday, November 23 7:30–8:30 PM A family man’s loyalties and values are tested when his Palestinian handyman is the target of venomous accusations 2ND GRADE FAMILY PROGRAM by his neighbors. Limmud B’Yachad—Learning Together (1 hr. 32 min.; Hebrew with English Subtitles) Sunday, November 22

Family 9:00–10:00 AM This program will explore the concept of mitzvot, Jewish values, and how what we teach is a blueprint in Judaism for how we live our daily lives. Through a variety of activities we will explore these exciting concepts.

Visiting Local Jewish Author with Karen Batshaw SISTERHOOD JUDAICA SHOP Sunday, November 22 Library 11:00 AM–12:00 PM We are open by appointment only Karen Batshaw will discuss her book and and follow CDC rules for safety. research documenting the terrible, brutal We have many new beautiful arrivals of: occupation of Greece by the Nazis. Hidden in Plain Sight shines a light on the plight of Greece’s Jews Shofars Jewelry and the brave attempts of the Archbishop of Athens to Apple and Honey Dishes Challah Boards protect them. Carefully researched and expertly plotted, Sukkot Decorations Challah Covers this novel’s attention to detail and compelling characters Tallitot Menorahs will appeal to fans of historical fiction and those of Jewish faith and Greek Heritage. To make an appointment contact Debbie Anolik ([email protected]) or Lisa Isenberg (301-963-4511).

22 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE MITZVAH DAY

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 Yvonne Klinger & Abigail Bortnick, Chairs

More information will follow in the Scroll and email publications. www.bnaiisraelcong.org/mitzvahday.

2020–2021 | 5781 23 DECEMBERMAY

DECEMBER

Hanukkah Friday, December 11–Thursday, December 17

December 25 Minyan at 9:00 AM & 8:00 PM

24 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE MAYDECEMBER

Jewish History 101 Hearing Men’s Voices: A Men’s Club Monthly with Netta Asner-Minster, Congregational Shlicha Dialogue on Men’s Concerns Wednesday, December 2 (and continuing Sunday, December 13 for 7 more sessions) 10:30 AM Men’s Club Men’s

Israel Affairs Israel 7:30 PM Men’s Club members meet monthly for open conversation Explore the major historical periods and events of Jewish on personal, societal, cultural, religious, and political, and/or history, beginning with the biblical period and up until economic concerns. 1917. Make your way through the Jewish communities of Babylonia, Spain, the Middle East, and Europe. This class serves as introduction to a course in the spring of 2021, Israel’s Milestones, presented by the Hartman Institute. KADIMA (GRADES 6–8) The congregational shlicha program is made possible by a Virtual Havdalah partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. Saturday, December 19 Youth 7:00 PM Israel’s Most Daring Operations (Session 4 of 5) Join us as we say goodbye to Shabbat and hello to a new Thursday, December 3 week with all of your Kadima friends. 2:00–3:00 PM Final session is on January 28. See page 9 for details. Israel Affairs Israel

MONDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES Cooking for the Homeless DISCUSSION Sunday, December 6 Is That You? 1:30 PM Library Monday, December 21

Men’s Club Men’s The Men’s Club, Sisterhood and the Social Action Committees 7:30–8:30 PM will be serving lunch at the InterFaith Women’s Shelter in This award-winning Israeli film is the story of Rockville. Volunteers are welcome.day, December 6 a 60-year-old Israeli film projectionist, who has been fired from his job and is going now to the U.S. in a Activities for All Ages search for Rachel, the love of his youth. BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP (1 hr. 23 min.; English) On Division by Goldie Goldbloom Wednesday, December 9 Library 11:30 AM–12:30 PM Discussion Leader: Harriet Fredman Goldie Goldbloom's On Division is an excavation of one woman's life, a story of For additional details and to register for any awakening at middle age, and a thoughtful examination of of our programs, please visit the dynamics of self and collective identity. It is a steady- www.bnaiisraelcong.org/calendar. eyed look inside insular communities that also celebrates their comforts. It is a rare portrait of a long, happy marriage. And it is an unforgettable new novel from a writer whose imagination is matched only by the depth of her humanity.

2020–2021 | 5781 25 DECEMBER HANUKKAH PROGRAMMING Eight Winter Nights Eight Moments of Light

BONIM & MACHAR (GRADES K–5) Hanukkah Celebrations Sunday, December 13 Youth 1:00–2:00 PM Gather your supplies and get ready to make some awesome Hanukkah goodies! Play some and hang out with all of your Bonim and Machar friends.

Light with Light with Eliana Light, Artist-in-Residence Monday, December 14

Family 6:30 PM On this Festival of Lights, let’s sing, celebrate, and explore all the light in our lives. Enjoy music, stories, and candle lighting.

Festival of Light: Eight Enlightening Hanukkah Facts Wednesday, December 16 12:00 PM

Sisterhood Join our shlicha Netta Asner-Minster for eight unique facts about Hanukkah in Israel specifically and generally.

26 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE DECEMBER HANUKKAH PROGRAMMING Eight Winter Nights Eight Moments of Light

USY (GRADES 9–12) Dreidel Tournament Wednesday, December 16 Youth 5:00–6:00 PM Get your ready for spinning and see who comes out the winner in this epic dreidel tournament!

Israeli Hanukkah Celebration with Netta Asner-Minster Thursday December 17 6:30 PM

Israel Affairs Israel Enjoy the Israeli tradition of , a special musical show for kids on Hanukkah, and learn about the unique sufganiyot that you can find all across Israel!

The congregational shlicha program is made possible by a partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington.

2020–2021 | 5781 27 JANUARY

JANUARY

NEW YEAR’S DAY Friday, January 1 | Minyan at 9:00 AM & 8:00 PM

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY Monday, January 18 | Minyan at 9:00 AM & 8:00 PM

28 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE JANUARY

Farbrengen: Tunes and Torah MONDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES Saturday, January 9 DISCUSSION

Ritual 5:30 PM Mr. Kaplan Library Share melodies, words of Torah, and some nosh as we gather Monday, January 18 (virtually) to say farewell to Shabbat. Bring your favorite 7:30–8:30 PM niggun (wordless melody); your favorite brief teaching; or Mr. Kaplan is a hilarious, crowd-pleasing black just bring yourselves. The gathering will include havdalah. comedy revolving around a Jewish Holocaust survivor retiree who is convinced the shy, old German owner of a local seafront restaurant is, in fact, a former Nazi. (1hr. 38min.; English) BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP The Book of V. by Anne Solomon Wednesday, January 13 Library 11:30 AM–12:30 PM Sports Night Dinner and Speaker Discussion Leader: Adrienne Rulnick Tuesday, January 19 The Book of V. interweaves the stories of three 6:30 PM women from different centuries, illuminating

Men’s Club Men’s Join the Men’s Club as we present a key figure from the how motherhood, desire, power and femininity have changed world of sports. and also remained the same through the years.

Sisterhood Shabbat Jews and Brews Saturday, January 16 with Rabbi Mitchell Berkowitz 9:00 AM Thursday, January 21 Sisterhood Men’s Club Men’s 7:30 PM Join us for a thoughtful discussion led by Rabbi Berkowitz.

Hearing Men’s Voices: A Men’s Club Monthly Dialogue on Men’s Concerns Cooking for the Homeless Sunday, January 17 Sunday, January 24 10:30 AM Men’s Club Men’s 6:00 PM Men’s Club members meet monthly for open conversation Men’s Club Men’s The Men’s Club, Sisterhood and the Social Action on personal, societal, cultural, religious, and political, and/or Committees will be serving dinner at the InterFaith Women’s economic concerns. Shelter in Rockville. Volunteers are welcome.

2020–2021 | 5781 29 JANUARY

6th Grade Noar B’Yachad Program Tuesday, January 26 6:15 PM Sixth grade families are invited to join Upper School students L.I.F.E. LECTURES and learn about our Noar B’Yachad program. They will visit Talmud Torah Talmud L.I.F.E. LECTURES are free of charge and open to the classes while parents will spend time with Moshe Ben-Lev community. You can find the dates and speakers listed learning about our program. on page 4.

These lectures are made possible by your donations and Israel’s Most Daring Operations (Session 5 of 5) the generosity of: Thursday, January 28 the Israel Bimblich Memorial Lecture Fund, 7:30-8:30 PM the Bess and Irving Kamins Lecture Fund, See page 9 for details. the Lieblein Memorial Lecture Fund,

Israel Affairs Israel the Morris and Ida Park Memorial Lecture Fund, and the Louis Wener, M.D., Memorial Lecture Fund.

Kindergarten B’nai Torah L.I.F.E. Lectures will be sign-interpreted if requested at Sunday, January 31 least three days prior to the program. Special thanks to the Meisel Family Endowment for Special Needs and the 9:00 AM Dr. Mitchell and Thelma Goldfarb Rubinow Endowment Family Both Talmud Torah and Kindergarten for Special Needs for making this service possible. families will take part in a scavenger hunt followed by a welcoming program to our newest Talmud Torah and Day Learn more at www.bnaiisraelcong.org/lifelectures. School students.

L.I.F.E. LECTURE Judaism & Islam: Bridging the Great Divide Jewish Genealogy with Ambassador Akbar Ahmed Sunday, January 31 Society of Greater L.I.F.E. Lecture L.I.F.E. 7:30 PM Washington No two religions are closer than Judaism and Islam, yet ironically, no two religions are further apart. Using Explore the resources of the Jewish Genealogy Library (JGL), history, culture, and theology as his guide, Ambassador located upstairs in the Chod Media Center at B’nai Israel Ahmed reflects on the challenges and opportunities Congregation. The JGL’s extensive collection contains more for building bridges between the Muslim and Jewish than 600 books and a substantial collection of periodicals and communities. He will also offer strategies for traversing the CDs, available for reference only. political divide in world affairs. For more information, contact Sean Agronov (240-731-0689, [email protected]).

30 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE HINEINI ANNUAL CAMPAIGN 2020–2021 IN THIS TOGETHER

B’nai Israel’s 2020–2021 Hineini Campaign will be kicking off soon.

Please look for information in your mail, email and the September Scroll about how you can invest in our community and ensure our financial strength during this challenging time.

Hineini will continue to be our only major fundraiser!

Thanks to our congregation’s generous support of last year’s campaign and commitment to our membership dues, we have been able to grow, engage more members of the community, and implement programs of the highest impact.

This is the time to be a part of our success, invest in our home for Jewish life, and imagine our future. As this year has shown us, B’nai is here for you—especially when we need it the most.

www.bnaiisraelcong.org/hineini

2020–2021 | 5781 31 INSTRUCTORS

INSTRUCTORS

32 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE INSTRUCTORS

AMBASSADOR IDO AHARONI serves as NETTA ASNER-MINSTER Netta Asner- Global Distinguished Professor for International Minster is beginning her second year as our Relations at New York University’s Graduate shlicha (Israeli Emissary). Netta was born in Silver School of Art and Science. He is a member of Spring, Maryland, and moved to Israel in 2004. the International Advisory Council of APCO She completed her BA prior to her shlichut from Worldwide, founder of Emerson Rigby, an Israel- Hebrew University in International Relations and based full-service consultancy, Chairman of the Jewish History and Contemporary Judaism. Netta’s Charney Forum for New Diplomacy and Global Ambassador for passion is to engage with Israeli and , strengthening Maccabi World Union. Ambassador Aharoni is a 25-year veteran the ties between the communities. She has worked with various of Israel’s Foreign Service. He is a public diplomacy specialist, organizations such as Onward Israel, the Knesset, and the Jewish founder of the Brand Israel program, and a well-known nation Agency to further promote this goal. She and John were married branding practitioner. Ambassador Aharoni has been Israel’s in December 2019. longest serving Consul-General in New York and the tri-state area to date. He held that position for six years, overseeing the operations of Israel’s largest diplomatic mission worldwide.

DEBRA BAND holds a BA Honours in History from Concordia University in and an MS in Political Science from MIT. She turned full attention AMBASSADOR AKBAR AHMED is the Ibn to Hebrew manuscript arts in 1987. Descended from Khaldun Chair of Islamic Studies at American an eminent rabbinic family, her extensive studies of University in Washington, D.C. and the former Jewish texts and research into medieval European Pakistani High Commissioner to the U.K. and and Middle Eastern painting and manuscripts inform Ireland. Named “the world’s leading authority her work. Her work, celebrated for its intellectual and spiritual on contemporary Islam” by the BBC and depth as well as visual beauty, includes illuminated and papercut “perhaps the most influential living authority on books and ketubot, other manuscript pieces and papercuts, in contemporary Muslim societies” in the Saudi Gazette, Ahmed is exhibits, private collections, community institutions and galleries a member of the Washington Muslim-Jewish Advisory Council. across the English-speaking world. Debra is the artist and author His most recent book, Journey into Europe: Islam, Immigration of multiple works. Debra has lived throughout the United States and Identity, appears on Newsweek Magazine’s list of “The 50 and Canada and presently resides in the Washington, DC area. For Coolest Books to Read this Summer: 2018’s Best Fiction and more information please see www.dbandart.com. Non-Fiction (So Far).” The film version (2015) is on YouTube.

2020–2021 | 5781 33 INSTRUCTORS

RABBI MITCHELL BERKOWITZ joined JOAN BRANHAM is Professor of Art History and B’nai Israel after he was ordained in May 2017 by Associate Dean of Arts and Sciences at Providence the Rabbinical School at the Jewish Theological College where she teaches courses in late-antique and Seminary of America (JTS). While in rabbinical medieval art and architectural history. She conducted school, Rabbi Berkowitz served as the rabbinic her doctoral work at the Institute of Archaeology intern at Shelter Rock Jewish Center in Roslyn, NY. at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem with an He holds a Master of Arts in Talmud and Rabbinics Interuniversity Fellowship for Jewish Studies, from the Graduate School at JTS, and Bachelor’s Degrees in and wrote her dissertation with fellowships from the American History and in International & Global Studies from Brandeis Association of University Women, the Memorial Foundation for University. In addition to his rabbinic and pastoral roles as the Jewish Culture, and the Kress Foundation. Professor Branham’s Associate Rabbi, Rabbi Berkowitz also organizes programming research interests include theories of sacred space, the relationship and learning opportunities for the community. of gender, blood, and sacrifice in ancient Judaism and Christianity, the iconography of late-antique synagogues and churches, and textual and visual strategies—ancient and modern—to emulate the ancient Jerusalem Temple. CANTOR SARAH BOLTS began serving as Associate Hazzan and Music Director at B’nai Israel Congregation in August 2019. Previously, Cantor Bolts served as the Cantor and Education Director at Beth Sholom B’nai Israel in Manchester, DEBBIE CENZIPER is an investigative journalist, Connecticut. Cantor Bolts was ordained as a cantor in professor, and author based in Washington, D.C. 2016 at in Newton, Massachusetts, A contributing reporter for the investigative team where she also earned a Master’s in Jewish Studies. As a graduate at The Washington Post, she has won many major of a pluralistic cantorial school, she is trained in musical styles awards in print journalism, including the 2007 from across the denominational spectrum. Pulitzer Prize. Cenziper is the co-author of the critically acclaimed Love Wins: The Lovers and Lawyers Who Fought the Landmark Case for Marriage Equality. She was recently named the director of investigative journalism at the Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism.

34 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE INSTRUCTORS

STEVE KERBEL is an independent education RABBI MINDY AVRA PORTNOY currently consultant in the Greater Washington DC area, and serving as Adjunct Rabbi at Congregation Beth El has been involved in Jewish education for the last 30 (Bethesda), was a Rabbi at Temple Sinai (DC) for 27 years. Steve is a consultant and project director for years, and is now a Rabbi Emerita. She previously the Center for Israel Education at Emory University was Director of the B’nai B’rith Hillel Foundation in Atlanta. Steve serves as National President of the at The American University, and an originator and Jewish Educators Assembly. In what seems like a former national co-coordinator of the Women’s different lifetime, Steve earned a law degree and was in the private Rabbinic Network. Rabbi Portnoy, a graduate of Yale University practice of law for eight years. Among Steve’s avocations, he (1973), was ordained in June 1980 by the Hebrew Union College- facilitates wine tastings featuring Israeli wines and teaches about Jewish Institute of Religion in New York, where she also received the geography of Israel through its wines and wine makers. an MA in Hebrew literature. She was among the pioneers for women in the rabbinate. Among her various publications are five children’s books, including Ima on the Bima: My Mommy Is a Rabbi and Matzah Ball: A Passover Story. She has taught at The American University, in Beth El’s adult education program, and at DEBBIE LEVY is the award-winning and New numerous other local venues. York Times best-selling author of more than twenty- five books for young people. Her most recent releases include Becoming RBG: Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s Journey to Justice (graphic novel-style biography); This Promise of Change: One Girl’s Story in the Fight for School Equality (with Jo Ann RABBI MICHAEL SAFRA joined B’nai Israel Allen Boyce); and a new edition of her 2010 book, The Year of after his ordination from the Jewish Theological Goodbyes. Visit her online at www.debbielevybooks.com. Seminary (JTS) in 2002. He became Senior Rabbi of the Congregation in 2017, articulating his goal to strengthen congregational life by encouraging and guiding individuals as they pursue their personal Jewish journeys. Rabbi Safra received his B.A. in CANTOR JOSH C. PERLMAN became the history and Judaic studies from the University of Michigan, and Cantor at B’nai Israel in February 2001. He previously holds a Master’s Degree in Bible from the Graduate School at JTS. served as the Cantor at Congregation B’nai Israel in He serves on the boards of the Jewish Coalition Against Domestic Albuquerque, New Mexico, for ten years. Prior to Abuse (JCADA), Jewish Foundation for Group Homes (JFGH), that position, Cantor Josh was the Cantorial Soloist and the National Rabbinic Cabinet of Israel Bonds. at Temple Shalom in Milton, Massachusetts, and Temple Emanu-El in Providence, Rhode Island. He has studied voice with Jeanne Grealish of the Sante Fe Opera and with the eminent Dr. William Riley in New York.

2020–2021 | 5781 35 RABBI JONATHAN A. SCHNITZER served RABBI MATTHEW H. SIMON has served B’nai Israel for twenty-eight years before becoming B’nai Israel as Senior Rabbi and Rabbinic Campaign Rabbi Emeritus in July 2017. Rabbi Schnitzer Consultant for three decades. During his tenure, received a B.A. from Columbia College and then the Talmud Torah was expanded and consolidated, studied at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where havurot were added and women were accorded he received his Master’s Degree and was ordained equality. He was ordained by the Jewish Theological in 1974. In 2001, the Seminary awarded him an Seminary in 1958 and awarded an Honorary Doctor Honorary Doctor of Divinity. Rabbi Schnitzer has been very active of Divinity Degree in 1984. He served as a Navy Chaplain and on the local and national Jewish scene. He is currently a member retired as a Captain after 28 years of service. He served as President of the Board of Directors of the Jewish Social Service Agency. of the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington for two terms. A voracious reader, avid traveler and biking enthusiast, Rabbi Schnitzer also has a special passion for Israel.

PAULA SHOYER is the author of multiple cookbooks including Healthy Jewish Kitchen and The Kosher Baker: 160 Dairy-free Desserts from Traditional to Trendy (Brandeis 2010). Paula’s recipes have been featured in newspapers, magazines, websites, blogs and on radio and TV shows all over the United States, Canada, Israel and even Asia. Paula is a French-trained pastry chef who teaches cooking and baking classes all around the world. She does demonstrations as fundraisers for synagogues from Reform to Orthodox, Jewish Community Centers and organizations.

The publication of this Program Guide is made possible by the generous support of the Jay, Gail, Emily and Olivia Wasserman Communication Endowment.

Thank you to Jeff Lowe and Estelle Schwalb for reviewing and editing the B’nai Israel Program Guide.

Special thanks to Bonnie Cole, Freed Photography, Emily Koo, Herb Perone, and Randy Sager for the beautiful photos they have taken for B’nai Israel Congregation, some of which have been used in this edition of the B’nai Israel Program Guide.

36 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE B’nai Mitzvah devn ipa

August 15 Benjamin Kish August 29 Jeremy Silberglied Nolyn Ziman August 30 Jordan Silverstein September 5 Nehemiah Driskill Julian Goldberg September 6 Noah Friedman Dylan Himelfarb September 12 Shoshana Berger Rebekah Buchman Asher Josef September 13 Lea Weinstein October 17 Jacob Becker Hailey Goozman Ethan Scott October 24 Jordan Feig Hayley Gottesman Ella Longman October 25 Evan Gorodetzky October 31 Dara Blecher November 1 Samantha Shapiro November 7 Shawn Muchnick November 14 Alexa Azia Molly Eisenfeld November 15 Danielle Krinn November 21 Taryn Su November 22 Joshua Berl November 28 Francesca Brown December 5 Matthew Stillman December 12 Gila Safra December 19 Grady Goldstein January 9 Joshua Burstein Zachary Burstein January 23 Noah Kaufmann February 20 Asher Cohen Jacob Weiner March 6 Alexander Bushman March 20 Noah Kolchins Ryan Shenker March 27 Devin Sheer April 10 Eytan Edelman Amanda Levin April 17 Jillian Nalibotsky April 24 Judah Kanter Roman Mlynarczyk Sarah Mlynarczyk Nathan Zweig May 1 Alice Frank Clara Frank May 8 Claire Lenkin Ellie Mayster May 15 Aaron Kerchner Shoshana Tinsley May 22 Emily Peters Mason Schiff May 29 Carrine Shemesh June 5 Coby Schlactus June 12 Jacob Krantz June 19 Benjamin Amdur Simon Pugach

2020–2021 | 5781 37 2020 Executive Committee & Board of Governors 2021

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE BOARD OF GOVERNORS THE LEADERSHIP ADVISORY Dr. Haidee Bernstein COUNCIL STEVEN ROTHENBERG President Ilana Bernstein Anne Abend [email protected] Vickie Abrutyn* Kimberly Cohen Lois Alperstein* Nancy Eig SCOTT HODES President Elect Howard Arnold* [email protected] Bernard Forseter Irwin Barney* Jeffrey Fredman Bobbie Berger ROBERT LOEWY Vice President Administration Mitchell Gross Robert Chernikoff [email protected] Marion Haberman Paul Chod April Kaplan Myra Cohen DAVID STEIN Vice President Development Steven Fanaroff Robert Kaplan [email protected] Bernard Forseter* Dana Lande Gregory Friedman* DINA COHEN GRUBER Vice President Membership Dr. Stuart Lessans Lesley Gasperow [email protected] Craig Meyers Daniel Glazer Jason Neuringer Sanford Gold DANIEL FISHER Vice President Religious Affairs Madeline Pellish Dr. David H. Goodman* [email protected] Marcie Peters Deedee Jacobsohn* Dr. David Levine FONDA LOWE Vice President Youth & Education Randi Poli Kenneth Levine [email protected] Alexis Robbins Paula Pascal Levine Dr. Philip Rogers JESSICA LIEBERMAN Secretary Solomon Levy Gail Rubinson [email protected] Lorin Luchs Jenna Schilit Ted Meyerson KAREN POST Treasurer Jason Sheer Sonia Polsky* [email protected] Andrew Shulman Naomi Resnick Dawn Stern Dr. Philip Rogers Hyman Rosenberg ROBERT ALTNEU Assistant Treasurer Wendy Stickle [email protected] Jacob Rothmel Debbie Stillman Andrew Schechter* MARC LEVINE Parliamentarian Douglas Sunshine Lawrence Shulman* [email protected] Jay Wechsler Sheldon Tommer Rachel Weinstein Margaret Uberman* MARLA SCHULMAN Immediate Past President Philip Weintraub Lawrence Wachtel* [email protected] Sherry Wachtel* TRUSTEES Jay Wechsler JULIANN GOLDMAN Sisterhood Delegate Amy Wish Elaine Goodman [email protected] Mordechai Yadin Edward Kaplan Allen Zendel* LEWIS GERTZ Men’s Club Delegate Ronald Lenkin [email protected] Joel Meisel *Past President

38 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE Committee Chairs

THE LEADERSHIP ADVISORY BEREAVEMENT L.I.F.E. LECTURE SERIES COUNCIL ALICE HARRIS [email protected] SOL LEVY [email protected] Anne Abend Vickie Abrutyn* SUSAN WEINMANN [email protected] Lois Alperstein* MEMBERSHIP Howard Arnold* BLUMBERG-ZALIS FAMILY LIBRARY JEFF FREDMAN [email protected] Irwin Barney* Bobbie Berger FRED E. GOODMAN [email protected] Robert Chernikoff MEN’S CLUB Paul Chod WAYNE BERMAN Co-President [email protected] CARING Myra Cohen LEWIS GERTZ Co-President [email protected] Steven Fanaroff ALISA RULNICK [email protected] Bernard Forseter* JESSICA LIEBERMAN [email protected] Gregory Friedman* RITUAL Lesley Gasperow DANIEL FISHER [email protected] Daniel Glazer CARL & DORIS LANE YOUTH DEPARTMENT Sanford Gold BARBARA BUSHMAN [email protected] Dr. David H. Goodman* SARA & SAMUEL J. LESSANS ADULT EDUCATION Deedee Jacobsohn* RACHEL SUNSHINE [email protected] INSTITUTE Dr. David Levine JUDY SAKS [email protected] Kenneth Levine DAY SCHOOL Paula Pascal Levine Solomon Levy LEAH TULIN [email protected] SCHILIT NURSERY SCHOOL Lorin Luchs PAULA CORREA SILVER [email protected] DAWN STERN [email protected] Ted Meyerson JENNI WEINSTEIN [email protected] Sonia Polsky* Naomi Resnick HAZAK Dr. Philip Rogers HARRIET FREDMAN [email protected] SISTERHOOD Hyman Rosenberg JULIANN GOLDMAN Co-President [email protected] Jacob Rothmel MARCIA LEVINE [email protected] LISA ISENBERG Co-President [email protected] Andrew Schechter* CHERYL ROD Co-President [email protected] Lawrence Shulman* HIGH HOLIDAYS Sheldon Tommer JAKE ROTHMEL [email protected] Margaret Uberman* SOCIAL ACTION Lawrence Wachtel* ROB LOEWY [email protected] RANDI POLI [email protected] Sherry Wachtel* JAY WECHSLER [email protected] Jay Wechsler SIGNE WETROGAN [email protected] Amy Wish Mordechai Yadin INCLUSION TALMUD TORAH Allen Zendel* SUZY LEVY [email protected] MARCIE PETERS [email protected] *Past President ELIZABETH WEINTRAUB [email protected] WENDY STICKLE [email protected]

2020–2021 | 5781 39 Social Action Collections

SCHOOL SUPPLIES DRIVE DC DIAPER BANK COLLECTION New school supplies are needed for families in the Linkages for The Greater DC Diaper Bank empowers families and individuals Learning Program at Weller Road Elementary School. Weller in need throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia by providing an Road is a Title 1 School and purchasing school supplies is a adequate and reliable source for basic baby needs and personal hardship for many of these families. We will be collecting new hygiene products. supplies in the bin outside the Education Office through early September. Diapers & Pullups (open packages are accepted, sizes 4–6 are in high Backpacks demand) Pens/Pencils/colored pencils/erasers Wipes Diaper Rash Cream (new) Crayons/Colored markers (fine and thick points) Tampons/Pads Pencil boxes (open boxes of individually wrapped items accepted) White glue/glue sticks Formula/Baby Food (new) Highlighters Scissors/Rulers Folders/Binders Composition/wire notebooks (wide rule) MANNA FOOD DRIVE Manna Food Center’s mission is to eliminate hunger in Montgomery County. Through food distribution, education and CLOTHING DRIVE advocacy, they are making strides on behalf of more than 63,000 The goal at Interfaith Works Clothing Center is to provide county residents who experience hunger and food insecurity. families and individuals in need with quality used clothing and home goods. The donations offer clients a sense of pride and Instant Oatmeal Packets (Original Flavor) dignity by making good quality items available to them at no Brown Rice cost. Whole Grain Pasta Tuna, Salmon or Chicken (in Water) Gently-used clothing for men, women and children Dry or Canned Beans (Low Sodium) Gloves Natural Nut Butters Hats Canned Vegetables (Low Sodium) Scarves Canned Fruit (in Juice) Pajamas Fruit Cups Sports Bras (small to XL) Shelf-stable Individual Milk Boxes Shoes Cooking Oils & Spices Umbrellas Ponchos

40 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE Staff Directory Main Line: 301-881-6550

MICHAEL J. SAFRA Senior Rabbi RACHEL SIEGEL Early Childhood Director ext. 565, [email protected] ext. 578, [email protected]

KAREN GERTON Early Childhood Director Emerita MITCHELL H. BERKOWITZ Assistant Rabbi ext. 575, [email protected] NANCY GOLDBERG Schilit Nursery School Assistant Director ext. 509, [email protected] JONATHAN A. SCHNITZER Rabbi Emeritus

ext. 560, [email protected] SARAH JARVIS Director of Youth Engagement ext. 515, [email protected] MATTHEW H. SIMON Rabbi Emeritus ext. 570, [email protected] RACHEL LEVINE-HYMAN Program Associate ext. 562, [email protected]

JOSH C. PERLMAN Hazzan JILL GENDELMAN Librarian ext. 572, [email protected] ext. 524, [email protected]

SARAH BOLTS Associate Hazzan/Music Director NETTA ASNER-MINSTER Congregational Shlicha ext. 503, [email protected] ext. 504, [email protected]

ROBERT KIEVAL Hazzan Emeritus AVERY SUDOW Communications & Development Director ext. 569, [email protected] HAL OSSMAN Executive Director Senior Accountant ext. 563, [email protected] NATE DOTSON ext. 551, [email protected]

MOSHE BEN-LEV Education Director PATRICIA SIMITAKOS Events Manager ext. 574, [email protected] ext. 573, [email protected]

RABBI PENINA ALEXANDER Assistant Principal JOSE (PEPE) STRAUSS Facilities Director ext. 566, [email protected] ext. 541, [email protected]

2020–2021 | 5781 41 B’NAI ISRAEL CONGREGATION 6301 Montrose Road Non-Profit Org. Rockville, Maryland 20852-4195 U.S. Postage PAID Rockville, MD 301-881-6550 | bnaiisraelcong.org Permit No. 2707

42 FALL PROGRAM GUIDE