Hakol Congregation B’Nai Jacob
The Voice of Hakol Congregation B’nai Jacob
Congregation B’nai Jacob of Phoenixville, PA S h e v a t – A d a r 5 7 8 1 February 2021
Our mission is to provide a place rooted in Jewish tradition where all people feel welcome, supported and enriched. We strive to foster connections to our past, to our future and to the divine in an intimate, accepting community.
Service Times
Friday Night (Unless otherwise indicated) 7:30pm
Saturday Morning 9:30am NOTE: All services will be virtual via Zoom until the building re-opens
Candle Lighting Rabbi’s Message 2
President’s Message 3 February 5 5:05pm Sisterhood 4 February 12 5:17pm February 19 5:25pm Religious School 5 February 26 5:33pm Learning for Life (Adult Ed) 7
In Our Community 8-11 CBJ Events Calendar-Feb-Apr 12 Events Donations 13 Learning for Life– February 7 See p. 7 Celebrations 16 Board Meeting– February 10 Yahrzeit 17 CBJU– Jewish Comedy-Feb 14 See p. 9 Calendar 20 Food Distribution– February 21 See p. 10 Something Shabbat Every Friday Purim—February 25 See p. 8
Friday, Feb 5th Birthday/Anniversary Shabbat 7:30 PM
th At this time the CBJ building remains closed for Friday, Feb 12 Community Shabbat with community use. Family Friendly service 6:30 PM CBJ will continue to support social distancing for as long as the safety of our members requires it. Friday, Feb 19th Welcoming Adar: Stand Up
As soon as it’s truly safe for us to gather to- Comedy Shabbat 7:30 PM gether again in-person, we will do so. Until then, th let’s all take care of each other in every other Friday, Feb 26 Shushan Purim, featuring possible way available to us. Silly Torah 7:30 PM RABBI'S MESSAGE
Dear Chaveirim/Friends: the month of December also reminded us of the gifts that we have in our CBJ community. You’ve December was the saddest month heard me describe CBJ as “small but mighty,” at CBJ in recent memory. In a and talking about how it “punches above its three week period, four of our weight” in terms of what it offers to its members. beloved members died. We lost Most important, though, is not what we do, but two newer members, Barry Sankey what we mean to each other, and how we care for and Susan Kaimowitz, who brought each other, and how much we enjoy being with new energy to our community. And each other. For over 100 years now. we lost two long-time members, Joe Weinstock and Gil Liss, who helped make an During December we saw a vibrant portrait of entire generation at CBJ what it is today. what CBJ has been. Of what it currently is. And what it aspires to remain. In recent years, even Because of Gil’s and Joe’s many, many decades without a pandemic going on, our lives have of being active at CBJ, many of our congregants become increasingly busy and scattered. In our joined the minyanim in the two week-long shiva politics from local to national, we see a observances (over Zoom of course, because of breakdown in a sense of community, in a sense the pandemic). And because they both raised of shared purpose, in a sense that what unites us large families at CBJ (16 children between the is greater than what divides us, that what we two of them!), the minyanim became de facto agree about is greater than our differences. reunions, bringing together generations of people Yet, what makes community-building more who grew up at CBJ. st difficult at the start of this third decade of the 21 Throughout the difficult December of loss, the first century is also what makes what we have at CBJ line of Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities kept all the more precious. The losses of December coming to mind, “It was the best of times, it was and our coming together in response only the worst of times.” Because even as we underscore how important our community is. But mourned the people that we lost, we also had the we can’t take it for granted. It’s a work in most visceral experience possible of the progress, and it only works while it’s progressing. importance and the power of community. Not just We can’t rest on our laurels, we can’t stay still. in general, but about the Congregation B’nai Inspired by the stories of the four people we lost Jacob community in particular. From the in December, each of whom valued CBJ in Cemetery Association that lovingly took care of all different but profound ways, we must honor their the logistics and practical details of burial in our memories by helping this community that they meticulously-maintained cemetery, to all our loved to continue to flourish and thrive. That’s one members who created a pandemically- of the ways that Barry Sankey’s, Susan appropriate circle of love around our friends who Kaimowitz’s, Joe Weinstock’s and Gil Liss’ were experiencing such great loss. memories will forever be for a blessing. L’dor
Many of the shiva minyanim for Joe and Gil were v’dor – from generation to generation, from theirs attended by well over 100 people. Each evening, to ours, from (old) strength to (new) strength. All we heard stories and shared memories. Out of of us united in this most sacred, and most human, these reflections grew a picture of an incredible of tasks. community formed by the incredible people in the generation before. At the same time, the picture L’Shalom, painted wasn’t only about the past, but about the Rabbi Jeff Sultar present as well. Images from the past reflected what CBJ still is, and also what it can be.
Ironically, then, despite the sadness of our losses,
2 PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE “What really matters is that we care about the Engagement 2021 – people we seek to engage. When we genuinely It’s About People and care about people, we will not only welcome Connections them; we will listen to their stories, we will share ours, and we will join to build a Jewish We are living in a time of rapid, Community that enriches our lives.”
profound change impacting every Dr. Wolfson is a visionary; a thought leader aspect of life, including our whose insights helped synagogues transform the religious and spiritual lives. Synagogues way they operate and/or should operate. The everywhere are diligently working to respond with pandemic enabled us to reimagine what Jewish meaning and even re-inventing themselves. institutional life could look like, and to create Moving forward together in 2021, broad-based engagement opportunities to make these engagement and commitment are the keys to changes real and enduring. success. CBJ synagogue life should be about a sacred Most organizations, including synagogues are community that commits to increasing “social reactive – focused on present worries or, worse, capital” during this time. What does this mean? on past glories. To thrive, we need to be reflective, focused on our purpose and future First, we need to continue kavannah (sacred possibilities. This supports CBJ’s objectives for focusing and intention) as a goal of worship. an inspired, engaged, and fulfilled Kavannah - not the technology or production Community. capabilities - should be our goal.
Even though we cannot be together in person, Second, effort counts - especially during COVID- through the power of Zoom we have found new 19. Everyone appreciated Rabbi Sultar’s time and ways to engage and connect with each other and effort in the planning and delivery of our High build relationships. From services, to Simchas to Holiday services to make them Shivas, CBJ-U and Religious School, synagogue meaningful for our Community, family, and life has gone virtual. On the upside webrought friends. The efforts of Rabbi and others continues friends and family together from cities and states to make our Zoom Shabbat services spiritually across the US, and everyone gets a front seat! meaningful with opportunity for engagement and New members were introduced creating new community connections. connections. The technology allows for a meaningful experience for all. Our “digital” shul Synagogue life will most likely be different in the future. created possibilities for more people to connect from afar, creating opportunity for engagement The future belongs to those synagogues that can and new relationships. embrace change, focus on purpose and future
possibilities and have the wherewithal to execute. Rabbi Sultar has done a fantastic job bringing us together spiritually online where we can “see” Let’s work together and start here: each other, meet new people from within our homes, and chat together – Engage and Connect! -Spiritual – Expand Religious Life Committee I encourage you to join us because you are and collaborate with Rabbi Sultar missing something special! -Engagement – Building Connections -Financial – Virtual events to support When building relationships within our CBJ Community growth synagogue community, our Kehillah, it becomes transformational. Our 2020-2021 theme focuses To learn more, contact me directly at [email protected]. on Connecting Our Community and referencing Dr. Ron Wolfson and his book, Relational L’Shalom, Mark J. Snow, President Judaism. To quote from the introduction:
3 EXCITING NEWS! SISTERHOOD
Help Wanted: The Sisterhood Board has On behalf of the CBJ Board, I am very pleased to openings for a few positions including President. announce Rabbi Sultar has agreed to a new The president’s duties include overseeing our contract and will continue as our Spiritual Leader. various activities and keeping communication open between congregants, the CBJ board and Since late 2015, Congregation B’nai Jacob has Sisterhood. been blessed with the spiritual leadership of Rabbi Jeff Sultar. We have studied, prayed and We have volunteers to coordinate our major socialized together, celebrated simchas and functions (Torah Fund, Sisterhood Shabbat, mourned losses and continue to weather the Funeral Luncheons, Gift Shop) and need a challenges of COVID-19 together. Under his central person for communication. Contact spiritual leadership, we have grown together as a Rebecca Boylan if you have any questions: congregation with his expertise in community ([email protected]) or Lori Snow engagement, pastoral guidance and Judaic ([email protected]). Let us keep Sisterhood teaching. alive and well at CBJ!
This represents an exciting time in CBJ’s history Mathilde’s Mentionables Collection and an opportunity for our Community to grow our Program - Sisterhood is continuing to Covenantal Partnership with Rabbi Sultar! support this much-needed drive to provide undergarments for the women of Thank you to the Contract Committee for their Laurel House. Please place your donations in the diligent work in completing this project. box in the hallway. Contact Rebecca Boylan if you have any questions: L’Shalom, ([email protected]).
Mark J. Snow President Sisterhood Wine Sales: Sisterhood will only be selling wine twice a year, for Rosh Hashanah and Pesach. All sales will need to be via pre-order. Order forms are available. For more information, contact Marilyn Tassencourt at 610- 647-9330 or [email protected]
Sisterhood’s Gift Shop – Our gift shop is well stocked all year with simcha needs as well as special holiday needs or a last minute gift idea. The shop is open when the office is open and you can also contact Rebecca Boylan at [email protected] or 610-327-8217 to find any item that you don’t see there.
Funeral Luncheons – If you are able to be on our list of food preparers or helpers for your fellow congregants in a time of need, please contact Diane Liss at 610-935-8646 or [email protected]
4 RELIGIOUS SCHOOL
By the time you are reading this the New Year has passed, and we have well immersed ourselves in a new beginning for a better year ahead. I have to take you back, just to December, to share some school updates. In December, the students were spent time learning about Hanukkah. Certainly, the Maccabees and the miracle of the oil made its way into our lessons. Yet, this year, being 2020, we also spent time focused on bringing light to a dark time and tzedakah. This year our students engaged in two Hanukkah activities. For each night of Hanukkah, families gathered on Zoom to light candles together … something we never could have done in person. Families volunteered to lead the candle lighting and blessings and then shared stories of some of their holiday traditions. When many of our students are learning virtually, this was a 10- minute zoom call each night that brought some light to their days.
Of course, a Hanukkah lesson wouldn’t be the same if we didn’t have the students make their own menorahs! Forget the clay and the wooden sticks. This year, in recognition of needing to bring light to this dark time, and the Hanukkah tradition of tzedakah, we asked the children to make a menorah out of items they could donate. In the pictures you can see some examples. One menorah is a box of spaghetti with stacks of coins for candles, another uses a scarf, hat, and gloves; and another dog food cans and biscuits!
Our Jewish values study has moved to Ometz lev (inner strength). Students are learning about Big Feelings, how to you know when you’re having one and how in that moment to use a good behavior choice. All our values lessons include a family activity or discussion topic and most recently this included a discussion on how a parent/caregiver can help the student use their inner strength to make good choices.
For more information about the school and its programs, contact Andrea Zavod at [email protected].
5 WOMEN OF THE WALL legal case can be called B’nai Israel vs. Israel. WOW…the Luck of the Draw Anat calls the situation “a wart on [her beloved] As I considered my donations on #Giving Israel.” Tuesday, I noticed a few promotions to encourage contributions. Women of the Wall Approximately 12 million people from around the (WOW) stated they would pick a few people to world visit the Kotel each year. The entire Israeli have a private conversation with Executive population is 9.3 million with roughly 12% being Director and founding member, Anat Hoffman. Orthodox. Yet, only Orthodox rabbis have What a wonderful surprise to be selected! Four of government positions where they influence government policy. us talked with this intelligent, dedicated social activist and former Israeli swimming champion. How can the Kotel feel holy to all worshipers with
WOW works to secure women’s legal rights to conflict, Torah confiscation, and negation of pray, wear tallit and tefillin, and read from the women and our sacred ability to pray? Israel asks Torah, collectively and aloud at the Kotel us to be partners in time of crisis. Let Israel know (Western Wall). Our support gives them the we believe in the importance of egalitarian prayer at the Kotel. strength to continue their work.
The women meet at the Kotel each Rosh Hodesh WOW has had success and made important (the first day of each Hebrew month) to pray, sing changes, and Women’s League has shown and read the Torah portion. Their efforts upset support by passing two resolutions supporting WOW. Orthodox Jewish community members, sparking protests with name calling, spitting, screaming, Here are some suggestions for what else we, as whistle blowing, pushing and intimidation. Yet, in a Masorti women’s organization, can do to show May 2013, a judge ruled that a 2003 Israeli our support: Supreme Court ruling prohibiting women from Keep apprised of events in Israel. carrying a Torah or wearing prayer shawls was Write to Prime Minister Netanyahu and remind misinterpreted, and WOW prayer gatherings at him to follow through on his promise to the Wall were legal. welcome all Jews to the Western Wall. Ultra-Orthodox Rabbi Shmuel Rabinovitch, Rabbi bnetanyahu@KNESSET.GOV.IL of the Western Wall and the Holy Sites of Israel, Encourage our women to pray and participate oversees the Western Wall Heritage Foundation - in prayer (with tallit and tefillin if desired), have the organization in charge of Kotel protocol. The aliyot to bless the Torah, read from the Torah, foundation provides the men’s section dozens of and not take these privileges for granted. Torah scrolls but does not offer any Torah scrolls for the women’s section. They also prohibit Send WOW photos of women practicing ritual worshipers from bringing their own Torah scrolls and Torah reading for posting on the WOW Facebook page. to the premises. Even now in 2020, WOW must attempt to hide a Torah as they pass through the Read the WOW newsletter and Facebook Kotel’s strict security. (By the way, Rabbi page.
Rabinovitch was appointed in 1995. The position Join WOW for Rosh Hodesh, either on does not have a term limit and he is only 50 years Facebook or in-person, when travel resumes. old.) Invite WOW speakers to your events – a WOW conducted a worldwide search for a small Zoom programming opportunity. Torah and selected one from Congregation B’nai Support WOW financially. Israel in Sacramento, CA. WOW nicknamed the 350-year-old German scroll “Rudy.” The Western Remember, our support gives WOW the strength
to continue their work! Wall security force has confiscated Rudy 46 times. WOW asked the synagogue for the scroll Lori Snow, President to be on loan so if the Torah is not returned, the Mid-Atlantic Region WLCJ 6 CBJ’S ADULT EDUCATION LEARNING FOR LIFE PROGRAM
Why Bother with Judaism?
Please join us for Rabbi Jeff Sultar’s 2020-2021/5781 Edition of The People of the Book (Club)
Here All Along: Finding Meaning, Spirituality, and a Deeper Connection to Life – In Judaism (After Finally Choosing to Look There) By Sarah Hurwitz.
“A beautiful book about Judaism. It will stir your soul and touch your heart. …It will remind you of the beauty of your religion.”
The fine print: - While your experience will be enhanced by reading the book, classes will each be designed to still be appropriate for those who haven’t done so, so please join us regardless - Classes will build on each other, but will also be free-standing, if you can’t make them all - Consider purchasing your copy through your local independent bookstore - Each class will be taught by Rabbi Jeff Sultar - Each class will be on Sunday morning from 11:00 AM – 12 Noon on the days listed below - Classes will begin via Zoom, and switch to in-person, in the CBJ library, as soon as the pandemic permits - Watch your emails for the link to the classes held via Zoom. Contact the CBJ office if you don’t receive emails from CBJ, or with any questions.
Dates – Topics – Chapters:
February 7 – Have We Got a Prayer? (Chapter 6) March 7 – Who’s Got Time for Shabbat? (Chapter 7) April 11 – Beyond Our Favorite Foods: Do Holidays Matter? (Chapter 8) May 2 – The Future of Judaism? (After a Few Thoughts on Death) (Chap. 9 & Conclusion)
7 IN OUR COMMUNITY
PURIM is coming !!
PURIM is coming !!
On Thursday, February 25 at 7:00 PM, there is only ONE place to be (via Zoom): Congregation B’nai Jacob
What to Bring:
1. Ears (to hear the Megillah read by our erstwhile chanters and readers)
2. Costumes Required !! (special commendations for best costume-virtual background combos)
3. Favorite noisemakers (feel free to get creative)
4. Gifts of Food for Friends (okay, harder in a pandemic…at least 2 different kinds of food – cookies, candy, hamantaschen, fruit)
5. Tzedakah (rethought for a virtual experience)
8 IN OUR COMMUNITY
9 B’NAI JACOB/JRA GROCERY BOX DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM
10 IN OUR COMMUNITY
Congregation B’nai Jacob U- About Alianzas
You never know when or where you will be inspired to help others. I was at work one day when I met Keith Gallagher, my friend’s father. As we talked, we discussed how we both are active in helping in our community, me with LGBT Equality Alliance and he with Alianzas de Phoenixville. Neither of us are members of these communities. Instead, we are allies. We decided that we would figure out ways that we could support each other in our volunteer endeavors.
The mission statement of Alianzas is that they strive for equity and the dignity of diverse communities regardless of their country of origin by providing services to the under resourced and by promoting intercultural exchanges to connect all individuals in the broader community.
Alianzas was founded by Nina M. Guzman in 2010 while working on her college Internship from The University of Valley Forge while majoring in Urban Missions/Social Work. A diverse group of organizational leaders and stakeholders such as Municipal officials, The Phoenixville School District and Phoenixville Hospital were brought together to assess the needs of the community and how best to solve them together as an alliance while simultaneously holding Public Town Hall meetings that gave voice to the Latino Community; its concerns and needs.
As Jewish people we practice Mitzvahs, and we strive to continually educate ourselves. CBJ University spent the summer discussing racism and holding weekly study groups to learn more about the history of racism and how we as a community can be allies to minorities in our area. Alianzas is in need of volunteers as well as donations. Please visit their website https:// www.alianzasdephoenixville.org/ or reach out to me at [email protected] for more information.
Ruth Groves
**Now Available** An Easy and Secure Way to Make a Payment and/or Donation to CBJ!
Congregation B'nai Jacob is now accepting online payments via a secure credit card payment processor. No credit card information will be stored at any time. If you would like to make an online payment, go to www.congbj.org/ and click on the Make a Payment Button or Make a Donation.
Use your Smart Phone, Tablet, Lap Top or Desk Top Computer and Support CBJ, anytime anywhere. All credit cards areaccepted.
(Please note that a portion of any payments to CBJ thru use of a credit card goes to the credit card processor)
11 CBJ Calendar 5781 February 2021 – April 2021
February 2021 Fri 5 Birthday/Anniversary Shabbat 7:30 PM Sun 7 Rabbi’s Adult Education Class—Why Bother with Judaism? 11:00 AM Wed 10 Board Meeting 7:00 PM Fri 12 Community Shabbat with Family Friendly service 6:30 PM Sat 13 Sandy Stone’s Bar Mitzvah Anniversary Shabbat 9:30 AM Sun 14 CBJU: TED Talk 10:30 AM Fri 19 Welcoming Adar: Stand Up Comedy Shabbat 7:30 PM Sun 21 Parent/Child Class—Purim 10:00 AM; Tikkun Olam/Social Action CBJ/JRA/PACS Food Distribution curbside pick-up 10:30 AM Thur 25 Erev Purim, Megillah reading 7:00 PM Fri 26 Shushan Purim, featuring Silly Torah 7:30 PM
March 2021 Fri 5 Birthday/Anniversary Shabbat 7:30 PM Sun 7 Rabbi’s Adult Education Class—Why Bother with Judaism? 11:00 AM Wed 10 Board Meeting 7:00 PM Fri 12 Community Shabbat with Family Friendly service 6:30 PM Sun 14 CBJU—TED Talk 2:00 PM Fri 19 Sisterhood Shabbat 7:30 PM Sun 21 Tikkun Olam/Social Action CBJ/JRA/PACS Food Distribution curbside pick-up 10:30 AM Fri 26 Passover Warm-Up (Preparing Our Souls for Pesach) Shabbat 7:30 PM Sat 27 First night of Pesach – Enjoy your Seder! Sun 28 Pesach Day 1 service 9:30 AM Mon 29 Pesach Day 2 service 9:30 AM Tue 30 Pesach Chol Hamo’ed Day 3 Wed 31 Pesach Chol Hamo’ed Day 4
April 2021 Thur 1 Pesach Chol Hamo’ed Day 5 Fri 2 Pesach Chol Hamo’ed Day 6 and Birthday/Anniversary Shabbat 7:30 PM Sat 3 Pesach Day 7 and Shabbat service 9:30 AM Sun 4 Pesach Day 8 service and Yizkor 9:30 AM Fri 9 Talia Rosenfeld Bat Mitzvah Kabbalat Shabbat 7:30 PM Sat 10 Talia Rosenfeld Bat Mitzvah 9:30 AM Sun 11 Rabbi’s Adult Education Class—Why Bother with Judaism? 11:00 AM Tue 13 Board Meeting 7:00 PM Wed 14 Yom HaZikkaron (Memorial Day in Israel) Thu 15 Yom Ha’Atzma’ut (Independence Day in Israel); CBJU Outdoor Knitting Group, time and location TBA Fri 16 Celebrating Israel Shabbat 7:30 PM Sun 18 Parent/Child Class—Shabbat 10:00 AM Wed 21 CBJU—TED Talk 7:00 PM Fri 23 Community Shabbat with Family Friendly service and Consecration 6:30 PM Fri 30 Jacob Steinberg Bar Mitzvah Kabbalat Shabbat 7:30 PM
12 DONATIONS
B’nai Jacob Cemetery Betsy and Gary Silber in memory of Joseph Weinstock Lori and Jeffrey Actor to honor the life of Joe Weinstock Kathy and Jim Intoccia in memory and honor of Joseph Weinstock Tommy and Joe O’Leary in blessed memory of Joseph Weinstock Ed and Elaine Mandel in memory of Joseph Weinstock Ruthe Actor in memory of Joseph Weinstock Jeremiah and Laura Weinstock in loving memory of father, Joseph Weinstock Michael and Miriam Weinstock in memory of beloved father, Joseph Weinstock Lisa and Harry Leff in memory of Joe Weinstock Connie and Jon Cohen in memory of Barry Sankey Connie and Jon Cohen in memory of Gil Liss Fred and Dee Goldberg in memory of Joe Weinstock
Capital Fund Mary Jane and Jerry Weiss in memory of Joseph Weinstock Mary Jane and Jerry Weiss in memory of Gil Liss The Anton Family in memory of Joe Weinstock The Anton Family in memory of Gil Liss Lori and Mark Snow in memory of Joe Weinstock Lori and Mark Snow in memory of Gil Liss The Kollers in memory of their parents Ruthe Actor in memory of Gil Liss Ruthe Actor and family in memory of Ruthe’s beloved mother, Pearl Hoenig
Congregation B’nai Jacob Natalie (Actor) Schutter – Gratitude! Carol Actor and Mitchel Kling in memory of Joe Weinstock The Rosenfeld Family in memory of Joe Weinstock The Rosenfeld Family in memory of Gil Liss The Rosenfeld Family in memory of Barry Sankey The Rosenfeld Family in memory of Susan Kaimowitz Sydelle and Gene Norris in memory of Susan Kaimowitz Jeffrey and Lori Actor in memory of Gil Liss Beth Rogers in memory of Gil Liss Norm and Arlene Goodman in memory of Gil Liss Norm and Arlene Goodman in memory of Barry Sankey Alan and Leah Liss in memory of Gil Liss Staff and Physicians of Valley Forge OB/Gyn Dean and Judy Solomon in memory of Gil Liss Jasen and Esther Weiss Walker in memory of Gil Liss Fred and Diane Liss in memory of Joe Weinstock Morton Winner in memory of his beloved Susan Perstein Kaimowitz Leah Student in memory of Susan Kaimowitz Michael and Julie Zatuchni in memory of Gil Liss Michael and Julie Zatuchni in memory of Stephen Zatuchni Hal Katz in memory of Joe Weinstock Continued on Page 14
13 DONATIONS (CONT.) Continued from Page 13
Congregation B’nai Jacob Hal Katz in memory of Gil Liss Irene Salzberg in loving memory of beloved father, Semyon Salzberg Irene Salzberg in loving memory of beloved mother, Sarra Feldleyfer Jack and Michelle Guida in memory of Michelle’s beloved mother, Susan Kaimowitz Brenda and Rich Busofsky in memory of Susan Kaimowitz Marv and Connie Silverman in memory of Gil Liss
Liss Scholarship Fund Lisa and Harry Leff in memory of Gil Liss Betsy and Alan Katz in memory of Gil Liss Kathy and Jerry Drew in memory of Gil Liss Kalpana Patanker in memory of Dr. Gil Liss Chuck and Roslyn Epstein in memory of Gil Liss Fred and Dee Goldberg in memory of Gil Liss Hal Tucker in memory of Gil Liss
Pinkus Stern Torah Restoration Fund Fred and Dee Goldberg in memory of Lois Goldberg
Rabbi Discretionary Fund David Hoffman in Gratitude to Rabbi Sultar for comforting us, and preparing my father Charles' entry into the World to Come Mitchell Robin in memory of beloved wife, Betsey Robin Allison J. Robin in memory of beloved mother, Betsey Robin Cheryl Trobman in memory of beloved father, Theodore Fair Cheryl Trobman in memory of beloved mother, Goldie Fair Allan and Barbara Cohen in memory of Allan’s beloved mother, Lillian Cohen Jon and Andi Liss in honor of Rabbi Sultar for his kindness, compassion and support for our family Donna Friedman to Rabbi Sultar in appreciation of your strong support and wise counsel
Security Fund Gary and Elisabeth Shapiro in memory of Gil Liss
Siddur Leah Margolis in memory of Joseph Weinstock Leah Margolis in memory of Gil Liss
14
MEMORIAL PLAQUES and appreciations for life-long friends. You will th th see momentous occasions like 25 and 50 th wedding anniversaries and 80 or “special”
birthdays commemorated on the tree. Other leaves document continuity celebrations for our
congregation like births of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Testimonials of generous
service to our congregation and other individuals are written in its’ boughs.
It is a sacred Jewish tradition to remember the It tells a story of a community- our community- departed. At Congregation B’nai Jacob, we have one we can celebrate and continue to tell going made this tradition a part of our continuous forward. worship and observance by creating a lasting memorial tribute in our sanctuary to our loved This is a great time to purchase one and add to ones. our legacy. Let this Tree of Life bring our congre- gation both physical and spiritual sustenance for These plaques will be viewed by future the years to come. generations with love and remembrance. You can honor your loved ones by eternalizing their To purchase a leaf, contact Carol Actor memory with a bronze plaque in our sanctuary. ([email protected]). Leaves are $150 each.
Every year, in perpetuity, on the anniversary of their Yahrtzeit, and at every Yizkor service, their memory will be rekindled as the plaque is illuminated. SCHOLARSHIP You may order a plaque by contacting Sandy
Stone or Valerie in the office.
THE TREE OF LIFE Donations to the Louis and Sadie Liss Scholar- ship Fund are always welcome. In Judaism, the "Tree of Life" often symbolizes the wisdom of the Torah. In Proverbs it says: "Its The Fund provides Scholarships for children of ways are ways of pleasantness, and all its paths our members for enriching Jewish experiences, are peace. It is a tree of life for those who grasp such as Jewish camps, USY Program, USY it, and those who draw near it are fortunate." Israel Pilgrimage, and Maccabi Games.
Laws and customs connected with trees Please help by making donations in honor of or in permeate the Bible and Talmud, providing an memory of love ones. They may be made in any ethical basis underlying human relationships amount over $18.00. Special individualized cards (tithing and charity) and the environment will be sent for any occasion. (ecology). Just call the CBJ office at 610-933-5550. We have a beautiful Tree of life sculpture as you enter our main lobby on the right hand wall. Stop a minute next time you are in the building and look at the names and memories permanently ensconced there- most are happy memories- milestone events like b’nai mitzvahs, marriages
15 FEBRUARY CELEBRATIONS
Birthday Wishes
1 Hanni Weinstock 14 Wendy Liss 2 Jacob Walker 16 Talia Rosenfeld 2 Jesse Stone 17 Avery Schwartz 3 Sadie Schiffman 17 Jon Ludwig 3 Mark Etter 19 Linda Segal 3 Marshall Goodman 22 Ruth Yeiser 4 Doug Sigafoos 25 Connie Silverman 5 Michael Trachtenberg 25 Barbara Tucker 9 Gary Singer 26 Nina Silverman 12 Hal Tucker 27 Deb Marotta 28 Nathan Mahan
14 Lisa & Bruce Fegan 20 Dee & Fred Goldberg
16 FEBRUARY YAHRZEIT
February Hebrew Day Honoree Month
1 SHEVAT 19 Carola Weil 1 SHEVAT 19 Albert Schoen 1 SHEVAT 19 Jerome Eisner 3 SHEVAT 21 Alan Mirsky 4 SHEVAT 22 Sarah Spear 5 SHEVAT 23 Eva Zibil 5 SHEVAT 23 Isaac Stern 6 SHEVAT 24 Caroline Pauerstein-Henry 7 SHEVAT 25 Lena Lupowitz 7 SHEVAT 25 Moritz Katz 8 SHEVAT 26 Samuel (Shemiah) Liss 9 SHEVAT 27 Natalie Baskin 9 SHEVAT 27 William Miller 9 SHEVAT 27 Rose Hyman 10 SHEVAT 28 Martin Goldberg 11 SHEVAT 29 Samuel Nathan 12 SHEVAT 30 Sylvia Kulick 13 ADAR 1 Leah Phillips 13 ADAR 1 Edwin Singer 14 ADAR 2 Eva Tomar 14 ADAR 2 Beth Kessler Waasdorp 14 ADAR 2 Elizabeth Siegel 14 ADAR 2 Dorothy Lillian Kerner 14 ADAR 2 Rose Freeman 14 ADAR 2 Beth Kessler Waasdorp 15 ADAR 3 Philip London 15 ADAR 3 Sidney Goldberg 17 ADAR 5 Nettie Schiffman 17 ADAR 5 Janice Schlessinger 17 ADAR 5 Morris Greenberg 20 ADAR 8 Michael Hyman 21 ADAR 9 Louise Kohn 21 ADAR 9 Herman Phillips 21 ADAR 9 Hillard Goldberg 22 ADAR 10 Sarah Trachtenberg 22 ADAR 10 Rachael Koss Abramson 23 ADAR 11 William Margolis 23 ADAR 11 Clara Schwartz 23 ADAR 11 Elsie Kaplow 23 ADAR 11 Dora Liss 23 ADAR 11 Louis Schiffman
Continued on Page 18
17 FEBRUARY YAHRZEIT (CONT.)
January Hebrew Day Honoree Month
24 ADAR 12 Barbara Wiener 24 ADAR 12 Rabbi Harold Kamlser 24 ADAR 12 Etta Kamsler 26 ADAR 14 Sydney Skopp 26 ADAR 14 Louis Trachtenberg 27 ADAR 15 I. Louis Goldberg 27 ADAR 15 Irene Talansky 27 ADAR 15 Robert Albert 28 ADAR 16 Freda Hirsch 28 ADAR 16 Yetta Trachtenberg 28 ADAR 16 Isaac Sherman
18
FROM THE RABBI
I Look Forward to Talking with You!
I look forward to meeting with you to talk about, well, just about anything that might be on your mind.
While you can always leave this to chance by just dropping by CBJ, it’s best to call or e-mail to set a time for us to meet. While it’s wonderful when people just stop by, sometimes people are frustrated that I’m not available when they do so. The problem is that much of the time I’m at CBJ is already scheduled with meetings; also, I frequently have meetings and Pastoral requirements that take me out of the building; and finally, I usually spend one day a week (typically Thursday) working at home.
For these reasons, never hesitate during “normal” hours to call my cell phone, and please also call the cell number at any time for a life-cycle emergency or for any other truly pressing matter. I typically check e-mail at least a few times during the day, but please also know that I have a “dumb” phone and do not get e-mails instantly when away from the computer. I get texts just fine.
While I always prefer talking in person, one of e-mails’ best features is that it’s good for finding mutually -good times to meet.
So be in touch, and let’s figure out a good time to talk!
L’Shalom, Rabbi Jeff Sultar
E-mail: [email protected]
Cell Phone: (732) 606
Board of Directors
Executive Committee Committee Chairs Mark Snow, President Sandy Stone, Religious Life/Memorial Plaques Kathy Koller, Vice President Chuck Epstein, House and Grounds Alan Verbit, Vice President Jerry Neumann, Chevra Kadisha Larry Koller, Treasurer Sonja Goldman, Kitchen/Kashrut Kenneth Kulick, Financial Secretary Carol Actor, Tree of Life Mary Jane Weiss, Secretary Fred Liss, Scholarship Charles Epstein, Security Officer Karen Motzer and Linda Loux, Membership Jodi Rosenfeld, Immediate Past President Lorraine Schur, Public Relations and Social Eric Miller, Chairman of Board of Trustees Media Rabbi Jeff Sultar, ex officio
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20 TO MAKE A DONATION
Congregation B’nai Jacob thanks you for your very generous contributions throughout the year. In keeping with the tradition of tzedakah, you may make a donation to commemorate any occasion.
This page is for your convenience to facilitate the transaction. When making your contribution, please specify to which of the following funds you wish to donate. (A minimum contribution of $10 per acknowledgement) You may wish to save this page for future use.
CBJ Security System - Fund security enhancements and protection for the congregation
General Operating Account - supports the day to day operation of the Synagogue
Capital Fund - supports projects to maintain, enhance and beautify the Synagogue's building and facilities
High Holiday Appeal - annual fund raising campaign to support ongoing synagogue operations
Oneg/Kiddish Fund - donation go into the General Fund to support the purchase of refreshments after Shabbat services
Prayer Book Fund - any amount appreciated ($30 donation for label of acknowledgement in prayer book – siddur, machzor, or chumash)
Louis & Sadie Liss Scholarship Fund - provides scholarships for children for the Passport to Israel program and other enriching Jewish experiences ($18 minimum donation)
B’nai Jacob Cemetery Association - for the upkeep of the cemetery
Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund - for special uses as designated by the Rabbi
Sisterhood General Fund - for synagogue improvement projects (please make check payable to “CBJ Sisterhood”)
Pinkus Stern Torah Restoration Fund - for the repair of the Torah Scrolls, to purchase additional Torah Scrolls, and to enhance the ark and bimah
Please send to: Congregation B’nai Jacob Date: P.O. Box 461, Phoenixville, PA 19460
The enclosed contribution is to the Fund
In memory of Or In honor of
Please acknowledge to: Recipient’s Name (s): Address:
Donor’s Name (s):
*** All contributions are listed in the Hakol unless checked here.
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