Elul 5769 Tishrei/Heshvan 5770 Vol. 20. No. 1 September/October 2009
BWebsite:ULLETIN www.saskatoon.uscjhost.net THE
Congregation Agudas Israel 715 McKinnon Ave, Saskatoon S7H 2G2 (306) 343-7023 Fax: (306) 343-1244 Rabbi Emeritus Roger V. Pavey Hazzan Neil Schwartz President: David Katzman/Heather Ffenyes
UNITED ISRAEL APPEAL GUEST SPEAKER AMI SEGEV "OBAMA'S VISION FOR THE MIDDLE EAST" and more WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14TH Nicky Gitlin Wins Gold 7:30 PM JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTRE at the 18th Maccabiah Refreshments to follow Games in Israel Bio on page 6 See page 5
Shana Tova - 5770 The Breaking the Fast Walnut Tree September 23 – October 7, 2009 By Martha Blum Blast!!!! Dramatized for the Stage by Geoffrey Ursell The 6th Annual World Premiere Shows nightly at 8pm, except Mondays. Also shows Sundays at 2pm. Breaking of the Fast Blast Tickets Box Office: 384-7727 Monday, September 28th, 2009 This province was built by stories. The stories of people who, pursued in one part of the world, sought sanctuary in another. Martha Blum's beloved Sponsored by Congregation Agudas Israel novel is re-imagined in this stage adaptation which will sweep you along and Saskatoon B'nai Brith Lodge #739 on an intense and personal journey—through the horrors of Eastern Europe, to the peace and promise of Saskatoon. Your stories, remembered. The entire Jewish Community is invited following the Naila Service on Yom Kippur. Major Sponsors: Congregation Agudas Israel and B'nai Brith Lodge #739 RSVP Myla 343-7023 or [email protected] A draw for 40 tickets which are part of our sponsorship Cost: $15/person will be made before the Annual Meeting. Email Jan Children under 10 Free Gitlin to be entered at [email protected]
Annual General Meeting – Wednesday, September 16, 2009 – 7:30 pm This page is sponsored by Naomi Rose and Stan Sinai of Toronto. Deadline for the next Bulletin is October 12, 2009 Folkfest 2009 - another wonderful success. Thank you to all the volunteers who worked so diligently to make it happen!
This page is sponsored by Micha and Patti Puterman (nee Landa) of Tel Aviv and by Petty Landa of Toronto. This page is sponsored by Dr. Alan Rosenberg & Dr. Lesley-Ann Crone and family 2 Editorial by Steven Goluboff Having taken the Ritual Committee have strived to provide Learn sessions. One does not have to be the entire summer a meaningful and spiritual experience for religious or academically inclined to off as a mini anyone who chooses to attend. For the recognize the pearls of thousands of years sabbatical, it is not seventh year, we will share a community of Jewish wisdom. As you all know, Rabbi easy getting back Breaking of the Fast and encourage all to Pavey has been very ill in recent weeks and into the high gear attend this wonderful end to the High Holy we pray for a recovery allowing all of us to of impending work Days. In this issue of the Bulletin, please benefit from his scholarship. I wish all our and of course preparing a Bulletin before read Dr. Lou Horlick‘s second instalment of readers a Shana Tova and look forward to summer is even over. However, I do face the fascinating insights and descriptions continuous contributions to the Bulletin in reality that it is time to get back to the real gleaned from Rabbi Pavey‘s Lunch and the new year. world whether it be school, work or community responsibility. Our summer has FROM OUR CONGREGATIONAL FAMILY not been stellar but there is always next year. The next few months will be highlighted The Mission Statement of Congregation Agudas Israel by the world premiere of Martha Blum‘s The Congregation Agudas Israel is a spiritual, religious, educational and social home com- mitted to deepening the quality of Jewish life in Saskatoon and district. We are an Walnut Tree adapted for the stage by well- evolving link in the historical traditions of the Jewish people. We are a progressive, known Saskatoon Playright Jeffrey Ursell democratic and sensitive congregation responding to the widest spectrum of Jew- at Persephone Theatre with Congregation ish thought and practice. Agudas Israel and Saskatoon B‘nai Brith as Written at the 2002 Kallah by the members of Congregation Agudas Israel Major Sponsors. There will be a special th MAZEL TOV AND CONGRATULATIONS TO: evening on Saturday September 26 , where Nicky Gitlin who won Gold Medals in the 100 and 200 metre sprints at the Maccabiah Games in our congregation may come together in a Israel. pre-performance cocktail hour. Forty tickets Kayla Hock whose grandson Marshal Young from Regina played on the Canadian Maccabiah are available as part of our sponsorship and Water Polo team, which won a bronze medal. will be available through a random draw. The Kayla Hock whose granddaughters Erin and Miriam Isman, daughters of Clare and Van Isman of fall and early winter herald our annual United Regina, convocated from the University of Alberta. Erin will be teaching in Edmonton and Miriam Jewish Appeal Campaign and we will will attend the College of Law in Victoria, BC. welcome Ami Segev as a guest speaker on Cantor Neil Schwartz whose eldest son David completed his Masters Degree in Education from October 14th to share with us his insights Washington University in St. Louis and will be a teacher-intern at a Jewish day school in Chicago. about the Middle East and fully prepared to Noah and Natan Recht on the birth of a son, Barkai Aaron in Australia. Jean Scharfstein on the wedding of her granddaughter Danielle, daughter of Briane and Lenny answer even the most difficult questions that Scharfstein to Kyle Blakely from New Brunswick. we might have. The High Holy Days will punctuate the religious aspect of our WELCOME AND SHALOM TO: congregational life and Cantor Schwartz and Ziv and Noga our new Shilchim.
Correction July August 2009 Bulletin: WELCOME NEW MEMBER: "It should be noted that Gladys Rose Medbl Lavery (presently a student in Toronto). was another of the few who served as President for four consecutive years" THANK YOU TO: The Estate of the late Reuben Brandt of Toronto for a major gift of $25,000 intended for the Cemetery. Part of this money will be used for the construction of a garage to safely house our THE BULLETIN maintenance equipment. GET WELL WISHES TO: Editor-in-Chief ...... Steven Goluboff Rabbi Roger Pavey • Pauline Laimon Youth Editor ...... Mayah Holtslander Advertising Manager ...... Ron Gitlin Circulation Manager ...... Myla Deptuck Layout & Graphic Design ...... Janet Eklund LeilaMember Goluboff of REMAX Cost of this issue with mailing ...... $1200 Chairman Club Cruise/Australia Business or Advertisements ...... $30/issue Lifetime Achievement Award Page Sponsorship ...... $25/issue or $130/year 2006 #2 Remax Team 2008 ALL AIRLINE RESERVATIONS Issues Published ...... 114 Charters • Tours • Groups • Hotels • Car Rentals Issues/Year ...... 6 For • Insurance • Seat Sales • Last Minute Specials If you are happy with the Bulletin and enjoy reading it, please RESULTS, consider sponsoring a page ($25/issue or $130/year). Contact SERVICE & 1-800-244-2321 Steven Goluboff or Ron Gitlin. EXPERIENCE E-Mail Address: [email protected] call me today. 244-2342 [email protected] I look forward to working with you! [email protected] Bob Nicholson, CTC, Mgr. 119 4th Ave S • Saskatoon S7K 5X2 website: www.saskatoon.uscjhost.net Saskatoon Printed at Saskatoon Fastprint Bus: (306) 242-6000 Cell: 241-1900 This page is sponsored by Grace, Steven, Leila, Sarah & Shaina Goluboff 3 From the President's Keyboard by David Katzman We have enjoyed winning Bulletin, so expertly and patiently have many bright and capable individuals, another very assembled by the tireless Dr. Goluboff, our collective decisions must be respected. successful year. The informs and inspires our own members and 2) Membership Annual Community anyone who reads it. The crowning At this time, we have a mere 92 Family Survey indicated a achievement belongs to Nikki Gitlin, who Units. We continue to lose members faster great deal of pride in captured half of Canada’s four gold medals than we gain them. We have a very our cultural, social at the 2009 Maccabiah Games by winning successful tradition of fundraising and and educational programs. A review of the the 100m and 200m sprints. It is my financial management but we must see minutes of our congregational Board reveals obviously biased conclusion that our very increasing membership as equally or even a great many people sharing their time and small community does a lot of things very more important. resources for the benefit of us all. well. To the many others who work tirelessly Our Membership Chair, Simonne Financially, we continue to be prudent with and unrecognized on behalf of our Horwitz, has invested a great deal of time a genuine concern for both the present and community, please know that you make a and energy with excellent results but we future needs of Saskatoon’s Jewish difference. My term as President concludes must offer her whatever volunteer and community. Thank you, Finance Chairman at the AGM, September 16th, and I suggest financial support that her committee Waldman, for your skillful leadership. The the following issues require our focused requires. New and existing members will remarkable success of the Silver Spoon and attention and resources: always need to feel welcome and fellowship Silver Plate Dinners allow us to fulfill our 1) Clergy Contract Process Consensus when they come into our building and, duty to help others as well as helping our At the Annual General meeting, we will hopefully, our homes. We must, as someone own small community. FolkFest was another once again review the process for the else wrote, always be good to each other. huge success, bringing thousands of contract and intended outcomes. 3) The Aging Building/Property citizens into contact with our faith and our Discussion, disagreement and dissent have Redevelopment members. The lawsuits launched by Shir been welcomed and encouraged by your Our building is over fifty years old. We Hadash and CAI have been dropped. We Board in creating a transparent, fair and need to carefully consider; see new faces in our building and even some respectful process for considering the Clergy - our present and future needs new faces on our Board. Our Hebrew Contract. It is not reasonable to anticipate (especially the costs of maintaining an older School continues to offer an excellent that every congregant will agree with the building) experience to every child. Thank you, decision that will be made by the Board but - the highest and best use of our Principal Scharfstein, for your steady and I do expect every congregant to accept and creative service to our children. The award support the decision. While we obviously continued on page 12 Hazzan’s Notes: by Hazzan Neil Schwartz A recent Torah rebellion among the Israelites during the 40 Elohim Chayyim” - “This and also That portion contained a years of wandering in the Sinai Wilderness, are both the words of our Living God”. We record of the we also have our share of differing views. Jews may be quite a diverse People, but no journeys made by There are those among us who wish we one can accuse us of being apathetic. I am the Israelites during would be more kosher in our kitchen, and firmly convinced that just as the ancient their 40 years of those among us who find our kashrut rules Israelites finally made it to the Promised wandering in the to be too strict for their liking. Some prefer Land, so will we continue to find our way Wilderness of Sinai. traditional religious services with our familiar forward as a Jewish community with all our We too have been on a journey together in melodies, and others wish we were doing disagreements, as we build together for our this congregation, and it has taken a lot more modern services with new melodies and future. longer than 40 years. Like so many other perhaps even with instruments. North American synagogues founded in the There are those among us who support Business Slipping Away? early 20th century by Eastern European and Israel unconditionally, even if we sometimes Maybe you are paying too Russian immigrants, Agudas Israel began disagree with her self-defense decisions, and as an Orthodox synagogue. those among us who might not mind a one- much for your steel? We have been a Conservative synagogue state solution even if that meant an eventual Call Toll Free: for several decades, and like many other Palestinian demographic majority. There are 1-800-667-5353 Conservative synagogues, our membership those among us who find some meaning in Bucket Service Available is primarily liberal in religious outlook. The regular attendance at services, and others Conservative movement itself is moving in New Steel and Pipe among us who make it quite clear that Used Steel and Pipe that same direction, as rules about women religious services are not the reason they clergy, gay and lesbian clergy, cremation, are members of our synagogue. INLAND STEEL PRODUCTS INC burial of intermarried couples and outreach As we remember the journeys which our to intermarried families are all being dealt ancestors took over 3,000 years ago, 652-5353 with by the Law Committee to reflect modern whether or not any of that actually happened Avenue P & 17th St. W social realities. the way the Torah says it did, we must keep Saskatoon Just as there was complaining and even in mind that “Gam zeh v’Gam zeh divrei This page is spsonored by Effie (Brook) & Harry Gordon of Vancouver This page is sponsored by Mickey and Lucille Narun of Toronto and Dr. David and Cheryl Singer of Winnipeg. 4 Wandering Jews - A Trip of a Lifetime by Jan Gitlin Ron and I travelled with Sherwood and to see her face as she made her first step next night Elaine Sharfe to Israel last year. Sherry and onto Israeli soil. The Sunday after her races, we were Elaine were the perfect people to travel Israel Before we could get down to serious taken to the air force base where Lior and with for our first time. We hooked up with a touring, Nicky had to prepare for her two Karen-or live, to have dinner with all of the Mission of mostly Saskatoon friends and races. arevim. It was amazing to see them all again. began an adventure that included the 60th Monday night was the Opening Our friends and family were so Anniversary of the State of Israel. That trip Ceremonies. It was so grand. We had never supportive, watching her run on 3 continents was amazing. experienced such a and through the World Wide Web. It was We did not production. The surreal. expect to be Prime Minister and After the competition we were able to get travelling back to President of Israel together individually with the Arevim for Israel the following were both in dinners and visits. We even were able to year. Nicky, our attendance. The meet Noga and Ziv at our hotel for lunch. daughter –in- law lighting of the They are so excited to meet the rest of their decided to end her maccabiah flame Saskatoon family. very successful was a very We toured, went to Masada and the Dead track career by emotional Sea and then the night before we left we competing in the experience.. The attended the closing Ceremonies of the 18th 100 meter and 200 Ron, Jan, Josh, and Nicky with Kfir and scene was set, Macabbiah games. If I thought the Opening meter race at the Roni and Ziv and Noga, our new shlichim Nicky ran the ceremonies were fantastic the closing Macabbiah 18 following day and ceremonies brought us to tears. The singing Games in July and we had to be there. Josh, she was hyped. of the National Anthem was probably the Ron, Nicky and I boarded the El Al flight Nicky’s strongest run is the 100meter and most touching memory we had of the games. with the Canadian Team on July 9th and “Team Gitlin” wanted her to run a good race. It was a fairy tale trip that will stay in our landed in Tel Aviv 11 hours later. Josh had We were nervous, probably more nervous hearts and minds forever. visited Israel on the March of the Living than Nicky. The gun exploded and so did So much excitement and what a perfect when he was just 15 and now at 26, he is Nicky (she left them in her dust). The ‘little way to end Nicky’s career. So many returning with his wife and parents. Nicky one’, as the Israeli press called her, took the memories. had never been in Israel so it was amazing gold and repeated it in the 200 meter the The Maccabiah Experience by Nicky Gitlin
Well, it’s hard to know where to begin. A long time ago when Josh and I first take place in July of 2009. This happened to As I’m sure most of you have heard I started dating and my track coach found out be the 18th Maccabiah and what better way recently returned from Israel where I Josh was Jewish he asked me “so when are to end my running career than in Israel. So competed in the Maccabiah Games in track you going to convert so that you can the training began. and field and was fortunate to win two gold compete in the Maccabi Games?” That was I informed my coach that this was to be medals in the 100m and the 200m. If you my first exposure to the idea. Having my last year competing. I began focusing haven’t heard, you probably have just not represented Canada at other international on this goal. My training included 10 hours run into Ron, Jan or Josh yet! I have to say competitions in the past, I knew how much on the track and 3 hours in the weight room it was a pretty surreal experience from start fun it is to be part of a team with a strong every week, regular physiotherapy and to finish and it is still all sinking in for me. Canadian and athletic bond and I wanted massage appointments and special attention this experience with the additional and more to nutrition. By January my coach felt I was we design and print... profound bond of Judaism. No matter how running faster than I ever had. But Brochures many talks I had had with Kevin Sharfe about unfortunately there are barriers to achieving Newsletters what the Maccabi Games were like, nothing any goal otherwise they are not worth Flyers could have prepared me for the journey I chasing. In practice one Saturday I suffered Posters was about to depart on! a hamstring tear. I was afraid that this would Presentation Folders From the moment I set foot in Israel, it stop me from reaching my ultimate goal. So Laser Cheques was an emotional and spiritual voyage but the physiotherapy began. I have never been Stationery my Maccabiah experience actually did not so devoted to hamstring exercises! And with Annual reports the help of my physiotherapist, massage Business Forms Textbooks start there. It started over 1 year ago when Carbonless Forms Family History Books I decided that my track career was coming therapist, coach and ever supportive to end as I began to feel a stronger and husband, I was back on track by May. ... to your specifications and satisfaction stronger pull towards my life with my The next barrier was actually husband and a budding career. I found out communicating with Maccabi Canada. Tel. 306.955.3373 • Fax. 306.955.5739 that the next Maccabi Games in Israel, which Although they are delightfully pleasant 217 Jessop Avenue • Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 1Y3 are held only every 4 years, were going to continued on page 15 This page is sponsored by Zora Gropper of Vancouver This page is sponsored by Leona Wasserman 5 When Saskatoon Was Just a Hamlet by Arthur Rose - September 1955 When Saskatoon was just a hamlet, Jew- frosted windows. A derby hat, high button pations. ish settlers came to Saskatchewan. In 1882 shoes, and spats were poor protection Though few in number the Jewish folk about 26 Jewish families took up homesteads against the weather. But prospects were set about establishing their communal needs: southeast of Moosomin. The settlement was promising, young hearts gay and people a synagogue, a Hebrew school, a cemetery nick-named "New Jerusalem". were warm and friendly. and burial society, a Relief society to help About 1888 another group of Jewish fami- Street the needy. lies led by one Abraham Klein settled south- cars had There was no west of Wapella. They helped to establish just money from frills. Un- Wapella. started - like the synagogue Jewish agricultural colonies were estab- were not and Hebrew School of lished - some still existing at Hirsh, Lipton, yet gen- today and still less like Edenbridge and Sonenfeld. The Hon. Jas. C. eral. the one in the plan- Gardiner taught school in the Jewish settle- Hope ning stage for the fu- ment of Hirsch. Maybe that's why he always was ture, the Synagogue quotes from the Old Testament in his great, of 1913 was of rough speeches. but the construction inside Not all Jews were farmers or in colonies. "land and out. But the Ark Some worked on the railways then building, boom" of the Lord was there - others were tinsmiths, painters, furriers and of the the spirit of God dwelt tailors, - others entered trade. few within - the Jew could Today Saskatoon has several "Pioneers" years preceding was over. Bad times were offer up praise and prayer to his Maker. who came here in the early 1900's - W. (Bill) ahead. The Cemetery, then rough prairie is a beau- Landa, P. Golumbia and H. Sklar. But people were young, there were no tiful garden sport now, some 4 miles north- My wife and I came here as newlyweds in pioneers then as now. There were many west of Saskatoon. The names on the many February 1913, following a visit to Saskatoon American, English, Scottish and other na- well kept graves are but one form of Jewish and western Canada I made in 1912. The tionalities who had come to settle this vast historical record among the builders of Grand Trunk Railway had it's terminal at land of hope and promise. Saskatoon. South Saskatoon - 3 miles from the city. From What a land: no trees. Vegetables were The Relief Society, the then Immigrant Aid there we came by high-wheeled, horse-drawn few and all were imported. Grow corn, toma- Society functioned under difficulties but coach over frozen trails, past those 3 houses, toes, lettuce, berries of flowers here? Impos- helped many a family become established - then and now called "The Three Sisters". sible: But look at Saskatoon now. We saw usually voting money first and then going There were no taxes or buses. trees being planted on many streets where out and collecting it from its Jewish mem- It was about 40 below zero. The coach they now provide beauty and shade. The bers. was heated by a small coal stove. The only beautiful shrubs and flowers - the vegetable Jews were in the British Armies which first river crossing for traffic was over what's gardens in and around Saskatoon today are came to Canada. Jews were in the vanguard known as the "19th street" or "old Traffic due to the faith of those early settlers. of every early settlement. Jews came to Sas- Bridge". Fine buildings? Fine stores - schools - katchewan - to Saskatoon and elsewhere Saskatoon looked pretty bleak through churches - homes? Saskatoon couldn't boast before the province or city were formed. Jews of many such then. The Saskatoon spirit was are among all those who are proud to hail strong - finances weak. Old timers will re- the flag and say "This is my country". member the few well built-up streets then, but can only marvel at the many, many more Editor's Note: This article was discov- today and the many still to come. Jewish pio- ered by Gladys Rose, Arthur Rose's daugh- neers worked on the railways, they farmed, ter-in-law. were artisans, in trade in a variety of occu- Ami Segev Military Rank: Colonel (Navy) Education: BA in Political Science and General History. MA - Public Administration, Haifa University.
Position Held: Branch Manager of a Shipping Company 1971-1994 Military service 1973 Won the decoration of distinction for bravery during Yom Kippur War 1994 – 1999 Keren Hayesod National Director, NSW (Sydney), Australia 1991 - 1993 Commander of Missile boats flotilla 1989 - 1991 Commander of the Naval Academy 1987 - 1989 Commander of the Missile Post Squadron 1985 - 1987 Commander of the “Dabur” fast patrol Boat Squadron This page is sponsored by Lorna Bernbaum of Ottawa in memory of Frances Bernbaum of Winnipeg, formerly of Saskatoon 6 Lunch and Learn – Part 2 The Siddur as a Source (from the classes of Rabbi Roger Pavey) by L. Horlick, O.C., S.O.M., M.D., FRCPCC We spent a serves to strengthen the good in us.” It is Our sources say it is forbidden to murder. considerable amount not meant to be a “special request” of God. Life should be preserved in principle, but of time studying the Community prayer enables us to strengthen the quality of life has also to be considered. Prayer Book or one another. The Talmud says that prayer A human being should not be in pain or Siddur (“order of service”), which is the “text is more likely to be effective when it comes extreme mental distress. Any method of book” of Judaism. It is a miscellany of from a community rather than from an treatment can be undertaken which unrelated items, a veritable “hodge podge”. individual. It is the community caring about improves quality (or allays pain) even if you The siddur is the result of a historical its members, as in the prayer for the sick. know that the treatment may shorten the process – an accretion from many sources, Prayer does not presuppose a belief in God. patient’s life (as long as its purpose is not ancient and modern. The current text still It is a spiritual activity – a sense that there deliberately to kill). Although the Rabbinic has the same general structure that it had in is another dimension of being or becoming literature considers suicide (knowingly the 8th Century AD., yet it remains the text – a need to search for something outside of entered into) a blasphemy, it states that most Jews are acquainted with. one’s self. suicide under overwhelming pain and As part of our study, we systematically One member asked “what does God distress is not a sin, since suffering may went through the Prayer Book, trying to derive from prayer?” One possible answer prevent a person from making a rational establish the meaning of each item, its that was offered was “we are co-partners decision. origins, and its relevance to modern day life. with God –he needs us as much as we need Is altruism a desirable quality for a Jew? The Psalms were the highlight of our study. him.” Another was “God may not need the Altruism is a theoretical construct and you Although they are commonly referred to as praises, but we may need to praise in order must ask what the true motivation of the the “Psalms of David”, none of them were to appreciate the beauty and the infinite individual practicing altruism is. “Cui actually written by him. They date to 700 – surprise of life.” bono?” The altruist says “I transcend the 900BC, considerably later than King David’s The Sh’ma is the most important prayer rules; I do things out of sheer love.” Judaism time and were composed for use in the in the siddur – everything else leads to this is governed by Mitzvoth- and we must Temple for dances with musical peak of emotion. Sh’ma is a very important observe them whether we agree or not. We accompaniment. concept. It means more than “hear”. It must engage in decent behaviour, and we There are things in the Siddur which the means “listen, understand and do.” The must not manipulate people through our modern Jew would find distasteful and midrash is that the command was addressed “niceness.” When you do a mitzva you are which conflict with modern moral values. to Jacob, and through him to his heirs. It not patronizing anyone, you are following Yet it also contains many beautiful things, means accepting the burden of God, making commandment. Mitzvoth do not exist in a and to find them one must look below the a commitment to carry on the Lord’s work, vacuum, but are essential to interpersonal surface and have an understanding of establishing a relationship of trust with God. and community life. Hebrew. Modern versions, such as the “Sim One of our members, a survivor of the Christ said “Love your neighbour as Shalom” have cut out some of the mediaeval Holocaust stressed the importance of the yourself.” Judaism says “we will give you a material which is foreign to our sensibility Sh’ma, not as a call for help, but an affirmation set of guidelines so that you can live with and has resulted in a “modern Jewish God of Jewish faith at a time of martyrdom. your neighbour, even if you don’t like him.” wrestling” type of text. However it still To quote Rabbi Pavey “the whole of The Rabbinic tradition distrusts altruism retains much irrelevant material and its Judaism is buried in the Sh’ma-you have to unless it is based on mitzvoth. Otherwise it terminology is often archaic. “The Lord is dig it out.” is open to abuse. my shepherd” says the 23rd psalm, but what The Responsa literature Why so many rules and regulations? does that correspond to in modern times? Another source of “sources” are the At this point, you may well ask, “why so My shop steward, the boss, the chairman responsa. These are the answers given by many rules and regulations?” Judaism is of the board? eminent Rabbis to real and imagined replete with rules and regulations, but they One member of our group asked: “If the questions and recorded in the Rabbinic always seem to have a purpose. The rules purpose of the siddur is to enable us to pray literature. The question must be specific. have been created by the Rabbis based on as a community, and it doesn’t fulfil that Examples of responsa are the following: hints in the Torah. They provide a coherent purpose, should we change it?” “Why do Does the saying of Kaddish require a sense of identity (if not taken to extremes genuinely religious people say that the minyan? A mourner is part of the community which create tribalism.) Within limits they siddur has nothing for them?” Clearly the and the community is part of the process, can be redefined or altered. Observance of siddur is the communal text which “enables” therefore Kaddish is best said with a minyan. Mitzvoth is the basis of the system and the the community in prayer, and we must Although it is permissible to say Kaddish way in which Judaism defines itself. These continue to try to get it right and make it by oneself, it needs to be embedded in the rules have practical utility – tell us when to relevant to modern Jewry. There is no community. Kaddish declares “the holiness pray, what is permissible, and under what Halakhic prohibition to changing the of God” – it has nothing to do with death conditions. They provide a structure for contents of the siddur, as long as the order per se (which isn’t mentioned in the life, through the life cycle, holidays, dietary of service is not altered. Kaddish). It repairs the damage that death laws etc. We should not abandon these rules Prayer has done to the community of Judaism. wholesale, or we may be forced to live by Observant Jews feel that prayer is a Is it permissible to assist a sick person to revelation alone, and “spirituality runs out necessity, “a pouring out of the soul.” “It end his/her life? (The Sue Rodriguez case). continued on page 13 This page is sponsored by Cliff & Ellen Hendler and Family of Toronto This page is sponsored by Arnold z’l & Claire Golumbia of Vancouver 7 Sisterhood News by Karen Dawson, President
It is hard to Hebrew school kids and the Fenyes family. We look forward to the upcoming year - believe summer is An opening meeting for the next season will and welcome all women in the community quickly coming to an be held: to join us for tea and coffee at our meeting end - as it always Sunday September 06, 2009 on September 06th! See you then! does; too soon. 1:00 pm For Further information, Contact Although many of CAI Synagogue Women’s League Friends: us have been away, there has been good We will be discussing issues of current activity within our membership. importance, as well as making plans for the Judy Horowitz- [email protected] The kitchen has been busy with parations upcoming year. Please do join us! 516-850-0474 for Folkfest 2009, and the Gift Shop has been Swinging into information from our Anna Tractenberg - stocked with new items for purchase. We Women’s League correspondents, here is a [email protected] 484-433-3619 recieved an Award of Merit for reaching our tremendous opportunity for individuals (and Women’s League Office – goal in the Torah Fund campaign, and the families) to participate in Woman’s League [email protected] 212-870-1260 Shabbat Family dinner this year was a huge Israel Mission 2009. i\If you are interested, We provide personalized attention success, thanks largely to the efforts of please contact one of your Woman’s League Linda Shaw, Marsha Scharfstein, the friends listed below. throughout the tour. A New Siddur by Hazzan Neil Schwartz At some point this Fall we hope to begin sing has been transliterated. rituals, over 100 pages of a Study Anthology, using a wonderful new Siddur as an On Shabbat morning the first 10 pages and Psalms. enrichment for our “regular” Shabbat are opening readings and meditations, and In keeping with Reform practice, the full services, in addition to our current Siddur then the service proceeds in the same order Readers Kaddish does not conclude any Sim Shalom. It has many features and that we already follow. There are a few sections of the services. However, there is options which can greatly enrich our prayers left out and a few text changes, but a Kaddish in the back of the Siddur, and we services. I trust that we will get used to these. will use that. The Mourners’ Kaddish does While this Siddur was published by the There are three different Torah Service appear, with full transliteration. Some of the British Reform movement, it is a traditional options, and we will do the first because it more traditional texts appear in blue, so we Siddur which has much in common with our matches the text we have been doing. will have them available for our services. 1985 version of Siddur Sim Shalom. The Among the new readings after the Haftarah It will be a time of transition for those language is entirely egalitarian in both are prayers for international and interfaith who regularly attend our Shabbat services, Hebrew and English, a welcome change! understanding (page 249) and responsibility but I am firmly convinced that this Siddur The first 25 pages are called “Iyyun for justice and the environment. will meet our diverse needs. Those T’fillah”, “Engaging with Prayer”. These There are two versions of the Musaf congregants who have expressed are meditations and readings which can be Service offered, and we will do the second discomfort with the language of our current used by individuals or the congregation to one because it is similar to what we know. Siddur should be very happy with this new get into the mood for a worship service. There are a few text changes, and also a few version. There are more opening prayers and different words in the Aleinu, but they will We thank Rabbi Pavey for bringing this songs for the first 15 pages of the Friday fit the melodies we already use. particular Siddur to our attention, and for evening service, and then beginning on The entire rest of this Siddur is helping us to obtain them. Please share your page 111 the service matches our current supplementary material, more than half of reactions with me or with members of the Siddur almost exactly. However, the English the book. There are more reflections, Ritual Committee, as we get to know this translations are much more poetic, and community and life-cycle prayers, holiday wonderful new Book of Prayers. everything that we could possibly want to readings, specific life-cycle blessings, home SHERWOOD GMC RV GMC C H A R T E R E D A C C O U N T A NTS Medium Sales Heavy Keith Thomson B.Comm. CA GMC Duty and Duty Trucks Service Trucks Paul S. Jaspar FCA Brian Turnquist B.Comm. 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It fosters and strengthens Jewish ideals and highlights the role of Israel in today's world.
by Linda Shaw As President of financially but I still have vivid memories of positive changes in the world. the Sarah the earlier years - of playing under the tables I feel that Hadassah has given me im- Goldenberg Chapter I while my mother sold “treasures” at annual mense personal satisfaction, lifelong friend- have regularly been “Whale of a Sales” at the Legion Hall and of ships with Jewish women, helped me build using this Hadassah- later making handicrafts with her for the self-confidence and made me feel that I have WIZO page to inform you of our projects in Hadassah Bazaars. My Mom took her turns made a difference in people’s lives. My Israel, of our upcoming chapter events, on the chapter executive but she was always mother truly was my role model and I am fundraising drives and news about our mem- most comfortable as a doer rather than a proud to be following in her footsteps. bers. I hope you found those reports inter- leader - working on projects because she To the many of you who sent Hadassah esting and informative. This month’s is dif- truly believed what she was doing or giving cards and made donations to Hadassah- ferent though. This time it’s more personal. was important. When she bought me my WIZO in my mother’s memory, I send my I am dedicating this page to the memory of Life Membership when I was in my mid-20’s sincerest appreciation. What a wonderful my mother, Clarice Buckwold, who passed I thought she was nuts. Me, a Hadassah way to honour her by supporting this or- away June 11th. Why on the Hadassah member? I tried to talk her out of it. She felt ganization that was so dear to her and by page? It’s because so much of what I am very strongly that belonging to Hadassah continuing to help others in her name. Thank today is a result of my Mom’s love for and was essential for a young Jewish woman. you. dedication to this Organization. My Mom At the time it seemed ridiculous. I have since September is Membership Month so, la- had been a Hadassah member since the learned that she was right. She encouraged dies, be sure to renew your membership or 1940’s - before the State of Israel even ex- me to get involved in the Shoshanah Chap- newly join our Sarah Goldenberg Chapter. isted. She was totally committed to improv- ter which was made up of new brides, moth- We’ll be launching our Hadassah year with ing the lives of children and women in Israel, ers of young children and professional a Pot Luck Dinner at the home of Lesley- through her idealism, her volunteer work and women. My Mom instilled a love of volun- Ann Crone Rosenberg on Thursday, Sep- her generous donations throughout her life- teering and helping others in me through her tember 3rd. Join us for fun, food, compan- time. She was a “Sustainer” these last cou- example. She wasn’t a feminist yet she ionship and an opportunity to tour her spec- ple of years, supporting Hadassah-WIZO showed me the power of women to make tacular yard and gardens. Slate of Officers for 2009/2010 Annual General Meeting Hadassah Cards 1. From Dianne and Gerry Greenblat- Wednesday, September 16, 2009 – 7:30 pm Sympathy to Linda,Arnie Shaw and family in memory of Clarice Buckwold. Officers: Standing Committee Chairs: 2. From Jeffery & Jennifer Hesselson- President: Heather Fenyes Chevra Kadisha: June Avivi Sympathy to Linda,Arnie Shaw and First Vice- President: Marsha Scharfstein Financial Affairs: Ron Waldman family on loss of a mother, grand Second Vice-President: Vacant Hebrew School: Marsha Scharfstein mother and great grandmother. Secretary: Michael Gertler House: Perry Jacobsen 3. From Eileen Soffar - Sympathy to Treasurer: Ron Waldman Membership: Simonne Horwitz Linda and Arnie Shaw. Immediate Past President: David Katzman Ritual: Heather Scharfstein 4. To Linda and Arnie Shaw and Family- With our deepest sympathy from Members: Sisterhood President: Karen Dawson Jan Gitlin Mark,Wendy, Mathew and Jacob Ditlove. Steven Goluboff Ex Officio Franci Holtslander 5. To Muriel and Arnold Grobman. Our B’nai Brith President: Randy Katzman deepest sympathy on the loss of our Lou Horlick Canadian Jewish Congress: James Simonne Horwitz beloved Brenda. May she rest in Scharfstein peace. Love Mark,Wendy,Mathew,and Ralph Katzman Saskatchewan Jewish Council: Arnie Shaw Randy Katzman Jacob Ditlove. 6. To Barry and Allison Grobman,Micah and Sara.our deepest sympathies on the loss of our beloved Brenda.May You are invited to my she rest in peace. Love Mark, Wendy, Mathew and Jacob Ditlove. Sukkah Party 7. To Brian and Janice Kowall,Ashley, when? Sunday, October 4, 2:00 p.m. Dan,and Will. Our deepest where? 322 4th Street E., off Victoria sympathies on the loss of our beloved Brenda. May she rest in peace. Love why? Celebrate Sukkot in my Sukkah Mark,Wendy,Mathew and Jacob Hazzan Neil Schwartz Ditlove This page is sponsored by Ann & Debbie Diament of Toronto This Page is Sponsored by Saskatoon Hadassah WIZO 9 Limmud: A Jewish festival of learning in South Africa by Simonne Horwitz Being in South Africa at the beginning communities and out-reach both within our psychologist, retraces his of August has many advantages, although own communities and among other minority grandparents roots in pre-war Poland it is winter, the chill is gone and the sun is groups. and Simonne, a South shining, there is an air of calm as the year is Finally I was also African teaching winding down and most excitingly its time privileged to be African history in for LIMMUD. invited to a holocaust Canada and leader of Limmud comes from the Hebrew word education workshop youth groups to Poland meaning “to learn,” and is a name reflects with Mark Weitzman, discuss various the goal of the organisation which is to allow the Director of the aspects of going or not each Jew to take one step further on their Task Force against going.” Jewish journey, whatever that may be. Hate and Terrorism In the lead-up to Through providing a diverse and often and the Associate Limmud Acia, Mervyn dizzying array of seminars, lectures, Director of Education and I got to share a workshops, musical performances, panel for the Simon great deal of tea, cake discussions and textual studies Limmud Wiesenthal Center, and discussions. creates a space in which each Jew can and the Chief While Mervyn and I explore various facets of their Jewish Representative of the challenged each other identity. In practice this is done thought Center to the United on a variety of issues I multiple parallel sessions which cover Nations in New York. got to hear another themes as varied as religion, philosophy, Mark is a fascinating survivors amazing politics, Tikkun Olam, history, art, dance and speaker with an story of life and the Jewish link to alternative healing – all extraordinary survival in the ghetto going on at the same time. knowledge but what and years of living and Limmud began in the United Kingdom in was most impressive hiding in the forest and the early 1980s and has since spread to the was his work to create alliances with various her eventual return to Subach in Lithuania United States (there are now Limmud’s in groups to fight broad-based hatred. almost 40 years after she was driven out. New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and In Johannesburg I was asked to In Durban there were 40 sessions over Colorado), in Canada (Toronto) and in Israel, presented in two sessions, again one on two evenings – Johannesburg was like Australia, Hungary, Russia, France, Turkey, small communities in North America and the Limmud on steroids, 8 sessions running Germany and in South Africa. second was a holocaust related panel. The from 9am until 10pm for 2 days and 6-10 2009 marked the third Limmud in panel was titled ‘“To Go or Not to Go”: Some parallel sessions, creating a total of about Johannesburg and Cape Town and the Reflections on Visiting the Terrain of the 140 sessions, an almost bewildering second in Durban. Excitingly, this year I Holocaust’ and the write up for the choose. Even given a couple of ‘bunked’ was invited to speak both in Johannesburg discussion read: sessions to catch our breath it would be and Durban. The latter took place on the 3rd “For some, Holocaust related impossible to report on everything we heard, and 4th of August and I flew down to Durban tourism may be driven by a strange learned and experienced. But I’ll give you a with my friend Marion. The Durban Jewish combination of nostalgia, family taste – focused on the amazing international community is shrinking but they still have history, curiosity or a secular form of guests. an active group of volunteers and pilgramage. For others, it is a dark In terms of Torah and Textual study one organizers and I was constantly amazing at shadow, preferably forgotten. In this of the highlights had to be listening to the Cookie Isaacs and her team who had every discussion three different lilting Glaswegian accent and brilliant aspect of the conference wonderfully experiences, Acia Lieberman, a discussion of Ruth by Avivah Gottlieb organized with a warmth and friendliness Holocaust survivor from Lithuania, Zornberg. Zornberg who now lives in which reminded me of Agudas Israel. revisits her birth place with her family, Jerusalem and lectures around the world About 200 people gather at the Jewish Mervyn Davidowitz, a South African continued on page 11 centre on the two evenings, we were treated to wonderful food and even more wonderful Successful investing conversation and learning experiences. The smaller intimate nature of the conference starts with meant that we were able to engage more closely with the amazing group of CIBC Wood Gundy international speakers who had been
brought to South Africa by Limmud – more ○○○○ on them later. ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ In Durban I was invited to present my SASKATOON'S CIBC paper on small communities in North ARTS & CONVENTION WOOD GUNDY America and how these communities not CENTRE only survive but thrive. Along a similar vein #35 22nd Street E. Saskatoon, SK Ron Holmes I was invited to speak at a lunch with the Website: www.tcuplace.com (306) 975-3818 or 1-800-561-3800 Durban Jewish Council in which we shared CIBC Wood Gundy is a division of CIBC World Markets ideas about the survival of small (306) 975-7777 Inc., a subsidiary of CIBC and Member CIPF This page is sponsored by Gladys Rose of Toronto This page is sponsored by Elizabeth Brewster 10 Limmud... from page 10 gave her late night lecture in a small board people become angry, they swear, they might used her talent to help us pray in a very room at the Durban community centre. You make a phone call and they might talk to beautiful and spiritual way. The final could have heard a pin drop as this brilliant those around them but very few do what Limmud session I went to was a session scholar, who is said to be one of the leading Anat does. She has campaigned tirelessly with Chana and our friend Jessica Sherman and most respected biblical commentators for the right of women to pray at the Western singing songs of social action from South of our time, spoke about the story of Ruth Wall and for women’s equal pay for equal Africa and around the world, it was truly the quintessential stranger in the biblical work. She pushed for the provision of amazing. It is my hope that we will one day canon. She brilliantly unraveled the story adequate municipal services for the more bring Chana to Saskatoon to work with our of how and why this than 200,000 Palestinian citizens of Jerusalem. BBYO and do Shabbat services for us. Moabite woman, who by the very nature of She has fought to see that the powerful Limmud in South Africa was not without her ethnicity could not become part of the Orthodox bloc in the City Council does not its fare-share of controversy, after all both Israelite community, becomes the mother of dictate lifestyle choices for the secular South Africa and Israel are politically the royal line of David. I invested in her population of Jerusalem and in a city driven charged. Some of the Orthodox animosity new book “The Murmuring Deep: by religious differences, she has fought towards the Limmud program which Reflections on the Biblical Unconscious”. tirelessly for religious pluralism and the rights characterized last years conference still hang There were also a variety of new, of those who choose to follow progressive over this years conference, but even fascinating movies. A real must see is the Judaism in Israel. I have never heard a without the support of some of the Orthodox German movie ‘Just an Ordinary Jew’. The speaker who is so passionate about what is Rabbinate almost 1000 Jews turned out to movie focuses on Becker Goldfarb, a morally right, who is not scared to stand up enjoy Limmud in Johannesburg! This years fictional character who is a journalist in and fight against the state, the army and most politically charged issue was the modern Hamburg, Germany. He then rabbinate because she sees and loves what presence of South African born David receives a letter from a local school teacher Israel can be. Anat does big things – she Benjamin, retired Lt Col. and top legal who wants him to talk to his students about fights in a big way for the rights of minorities advisor to the Israeli Defense Force (IDF). being Jewish in Germany today. The rest of in Israel – Jews and non-Jews but she has Benjamin advised senior IDF commanders the 90 minute movie is a moving and time to inspire and say little things that make on Operational Law issues, International incredibly powerful (and brilliantly filmed) such a difference to individuals. Her Law and the Law of Armed Conflicts and monologue about Jewish identity, the forces dedication of her lecture at Beit Emanuel (my Counter-Terrorism. Benjamin is seen as of history and the innate connection of Jews South African Shul) to my father and her being guilty of war crimes in some arenas to their past. Although set in Germany, speaking out about the insanity of a and there were protests outside of the narrated in German with sub-titles the movie cemetery divided into an orthodox and reform Limmud venue in Johannesburg. explores powerful themes for all of us. It section is an act of kindness and recognition One of Limmud’s founding principles is made me think and feel in a way movies I will never forget. to allow for open debate and hearing both seldom move me. Anyone interested in human-rights and sides of the story. In order to do this Social Activism was also a large part of social justice should have a look at the Benjamin spoke on a panel with impressive the conference and this area allowed me to website of the IRAC young Israeli attorney Shlomy Zachary. cross paths with two amazing women – Anat In a very different way Canadian-born Zachary, who is an expert on International Hoffman and Chana Rothman. Both these singer Chana Rothman, one of the most Law, International Humanitarian Law and amazing women teach that there is more than exciting Jewish artists in the North American Human Rights Law and represents clients one way to be Jewish and as Chana’s song music scene today uses her lyrics – in English such as Peace Now Settlement Watch and stresses – there is more than one way to be and Hebrew to address key social and Yesh Din – Volunteers for Human Rights, free. cultural issues. She can rap and do hip-hop gave a critique of the IDF’s actions in Anat Hoffman, ex-Israeli swimming with the best of them but listening to her Operation Cast Iron from a human right champion, Jerusalem City Council woman lyrics you see the difference who and what perspective. for 14 years, Executive Director of the Israel she stands for and how she strives to use Limmud was a truly special experience Religious Action Center (IRAC) Progressive her music to build bridges between people. and I hope that one day there will be a Judaism’s social action body, tireless Watching her perform is a real treat, her Limmud-Western Canada! human rights activist and in her own words beautiful spirit and soul are infectious. She “professional trouble maker”. When most also came to our Friday night Chavurah and PROFESSIONAL ADVICE CUELENAERE, KENDALL FROM A QUALIFIED FINANCIAL ADVISOR KATZMAN RICHARDS Darrell Nordstrom, R.F.P., C.F.P., CLU. & •Financial Estate Planning Barristers, Solicitors and Mediators •Investment Management RANDY KATZMAN •Charitable Bequests B.Comm., LL.B. Assante Wealth Management (306) 653-5000 Fax: (306) 652-4171 SASKATOON Wealth Creation, Preservation and Management 810 Circle Dr. E 2105 8th St. E. 200 - 261 1st Ave. East at Millar Ave at Grosvenor Saskatoon, Sask. S7K 1X2 5th Floor, Atrium Place, #510, 128 - 4th Avenue S., 933-1986 955-1989 Bus: 665-3377 Res: 933-4123 Saskatoon, S7K 1M8 This page is sponsored by Jeffrey and Sherril Stein. This page is sponsored by Alan, Linda & Sam Goluboff of Toronto 11 The Saskatoon Jewish Foundation gratefully acknowledges the following contributions: As my father TO GREETING FROM SASKATOON JEWISH FOUNDATION The Gelmon Family In memory of Syd Gelmon David & Cheryl Singer planted for me Mel Bernbaum In memory of Frances Bernbaum Carol Stollar Linda Buckwold In memory of Clarice Buckwold Carol Stollar Linda Shaw In memory of Clarice Buckwold Sandra Broudy & Tobin Robbins Rabbi Roger Pavey Get well wishes Jack Sandbrand before I was born, Mel Bernbaum In memory of Frances Bernbaum Jack Sandbrand Nicky Gitlin Congratulations on your gold medals Jack Sandbrand So do I plant for at the Maccabiah games NATHAN & GRACE GOLUBOFF FUND Steven Goluboff In honour of your receiving the B’nai Brith David & Cheryl Singer Gerry Rose Volunteer Award those who will Steven Goluboff In honour of your receiving the B’nai Brith Jack Sandbrand Gerry Rose Volunteer Award come after me. SEYMOUR BUCKWOLD CULTURAL FUND Linda Shaw & Family In memory of Clarice Buckwold Josie Freidin from the Talmud GLADYS & GERRY ROSE FUND The Bernbaum Family In memory of Frances Bernbaum Glady Rose Bea Goldberg In memory of Dave Panner Gladys Rose & Family The Bernie Kay Family& In memory of Pearl Glady Rose The Dr. Phil Adilman Family Your contribution, sent to: Rabbi Roger Pavey Get well wishes Glady Rose David Rose & Marlene Kates In honour of your 26th wedding anniversary Glady Rose Saskatoon Jewish Foundation Congregation Agudas Israel, SID & CLARICE BUCKWOLD FUND 715 McKinnon Avenue, Saskatoon Linda & Arnie Shaw & Family In memory of Clarice Buckwold Jack Sandbrand S7H 2G2 The family of Clarice Buckwold In memory of Clarice Buckwold Mrs. Sue Kim Der will be gratefully received and Mrs. Jean (Der) Wong faithfully applied. Mrs. Maylane (Der) Wong & Dr. Chong Wong Mrs. Yvonne (Der) Ng & Mr. Alex Ng Mr. Ken Der
President's Keyboard... from page 4 property East so we can intelligently participate in I would, once again, like to sincerely - developing a consensus on what supporting a peace process for the whole thank the members of the Board for their we want if we do redevelop region. energy, mutual respect and commitment. We are situated on a very large and 5) Volunteers and Future Leadership Every meeting has been interesting, valuable piece of land. We may be able to A priority in any successful organization productive and sometimes even create a mutually beneficial relationship with is to ensure an orderly transition from year entertaining. Our Shlichim, Nim and Shirly, partners. to year as persons retire or move. We have were an endless fount of energy, creativity 4) Support for Peace in Israel and the some new faces at our Board table and in and caring. I know that all of us are grateful Middle East various committees but we must constantly for the time we had with them. I look forward Our congregation is absolutely be encouraging younger leadership to step to working with their equally impressive committed to supporting Israel in her search forward. This means, necessarily, that we successors, Noga and Ziv. Hazzan Schwartz for permanent safety and security. Our must give the young leaders an opportunity has enthusiastically served our annual United Israel Appeal results have to lead and we all must accept that things congregation for two years, trying to please been excellent. Israel is constantly criticized will be done differently. It also means that the widest spectrum of Jewish thought and in various media for activities that are all of us must continue to praise publicly practice, and that is a rather large spectrum. intentionally ignored in other countries. and criticize privately, directly and Thank you, Hazzan Schwartz, for your Israel’s very right to exist is denied by respectfully. New leadership, and existing patience and perseverance. Myla Deptuch terrorist groups and governments. Arabs leadership, need our support. Many has also been asked to serve a wide range and Muslims who accept Israel are branded congregations, Jewish and non-Jewish, are of expectations and, by all accounts, as traitors. At the same time, the expansion severely hampered by members who think continues to do be very successful. Thank of settlements is, in my opinion, a real nothing of criticizing and belittling their you, Myla. impediment to the peace process. I tend to leaders and fellow congregants behind their Forty-eight months goes by very quickly. be suspicious of anyone who believes there backs. Such unethical behaviour is not I have learned a great deal during that time is a simple solution to conflict in the Middle frequent but when seen it needs to be about being Jewish and about being a leader. East. I hope that our congregation can learn politely but firmly rejected by every My thanks go to everyone who has taken congregant. more about what is happening in the Middle continued on page 14 This page is sponsored by Dr. Joe & Colleen Golumbia of Sidney, BC This page is sponsored by Dr. Syd z'l & Miriam Gelmon of Vancouver 12 SHANA TOVAH FROM MERCAZ-CANADA Steven Goluboff represents Agudas Israel as a member of the Board of Directors of MERCAZ-Canada . If you would like more information about our work please contact Steven.
MERCAZ- international Zionist community. This is thank you very much. Your support is CANADA, the of critical importance as we carry out our greatly appreciated. We would love to send Zionist arm of advocacy for religious pluralism in Israel you our e-newsletters and other important Conservative Judaism, represents our and seek funding for programmes of the information, but in order to do this we need movement in the World Zionist Movement. The funds help support our your e-mail address, so please forward it our Organization (WZO), Jewish Agency Masorti kehillot in Israel. The Masorti office at [email protected]. If you (JAFI), Keren Kayemet (Jewish National Movement pays a large portion of our are not a member, please join today. We Fund) and the Canadian Zionist Federation rabbis’ salaries, their youth leaders and need your support! You may join on line at (CZF). We lobby to secure funding on educational programmes and so much www.mercaz.ca or by phoning our office at behalf of our Movement’s institutions in more! 416-667 1717 or (toll free) at 1-866-357 Israel and around the world. Funding levels 3854. (currently nearly $2.5 million annually) are In Canada, your MERCAZ Membership also determined according to votes in the supports our Matching Scholarship Shana Tovah U’Metukah. elections for the World Zionist Congress. Programme for Canadian youth in such THE NEXT ELECTION WILL BE IN 2010. programs as USY Pilgrimage, Ramah Marion Mayman Israel Seminar, NATIV and the President, MERCAZ-Canada The formula is simple: the more members Conservative Yeshiva. who vote for MERCAZ-Canada in the election in Canada, the more influence the Your membership in MERCAZ-Canada is Conservative/Masorti Movement has in the crucial. If you are already a member we
Lunch and Learn... from page 7 very quickly.” However only Autonomy and responsibility you see that carob tree over there? I will fundamentalists can believe in all the rules The core of Jewish belief is that man is call upon God to make it move to another and carry them out. They must make sense an autonomous creature, and that autonomy place”, and the tree is moved. “Now do you in terms of our particular relationship with is synonymous with moral responsibility. believe that I am right about the pot?”, asks God. For instance, 90% of North American There can be no mystic merging of man with Rabbi Eliezer? “No” they answer, “we have Jewry does not observe kashruth, because God, as in Oriental mysticism. There is an taken a vote and we are the majority.” “Well they no longer see it as a necessary part of “I-Thou” relationship. God speaks to then”, he says, “I will ask God to perform their relationship with God. humans and humans respond. There is no another miracle to show you that I am right. Coming to terms with change merging of wills. Man is responsible for his Do you see that stream, I will ask God to Rabbis are traditionally conservative and actions. However there is a covenant or reverse the flow of water in the stream”, and don’t like change – “they have to be contract between God and Man in which indeed that happens. The Rabbis reply, dragged, kicking and screaming” toward Man undertakes to follow a moral code in “That’s all well and good, but we are the change. Orthodox Judaism denies change. return for God’s protection and rewards. majority opinion and we won’t change.” It cannot tolerate any hint of criticism of the There is a midrash that God peddled the Finally, in frustration, he calls on God to Torah, it denies the validity of textual Torah to many different Nations before speak directly to the Rabbis, and God’s voice scholarship or the use of non Jewish approaching Israel, but none would have it. is heard enjoining them to change their sources. Other varieties of Judaism Only Israel agreed to accept the Torah and opinion. “Well, are you now convinced?” encourage questioning the rules and trying the 613 mitzvoth without asking for special asks Rabbi Believer. “No” they reply, God to make them accord with experiences of conditions. “We will accept it, and then we gave the Torah to us at Mt. Sinai as part of modern life. will concern ourselves about the contents” our contract, and it’s now our business and Can the individual in fact interpret Torah (observance comes before understanding!) our job to interpret it.” It is said that Rabbi for himself, or does he need a spiritual Thus Jews are not the “chosen people”, but Eliezer then approached the prophet Elijah guide? Buber says we need to discuss with the choosing people. “God did not choose and asked him how God reacted to this others, but we may not hand over to another the Jews, the Jews chose God”, (Kaplan). decision. Elijah answered, “God laughed.” the autonomy of decision making, nor may Having made their contract with God and “My children have overcome me” he said. we interfere with the autonomy of another’s having accepted the Torah, the Jews have This midrash tells us that the conscience. Liberal Judaism wants you to felt free to add to it through the Oral Torah, interpretation of the written Torah (which grow and make decisions for yourself. You and to interpret the Torah according to their becomes the Oral Torah) is the responsibility may consult a Rabbi, but the ultimate understanding. The famous midrash of the entire community and not that of an decision is yours. The Haredim think in concerning the purity of a pot. A conclave individual. The continuing growth of Oral terms of moral absolutes, they reject the fact of Rabbis is considering the kashruth of a Torah represents the adaptation of the that there may be more than one moral choice. pot. Three say it is kosher, the fourth (Rabbi tenets of Judaism to modern life. They say “everything is in the Torah.” “The Eliezer) says it isn’t. He is so sure that he’s Torah is always right and you need Rabbis right that he proposes to have God come to and scholars to help you understand it.” his assistance and create a miracle. “Do This page is sponsored by Mirak Pollak This page is sponsored by the Saskatchewan Jewish Council 13 Yahrtzeits September 25/26 Tishrei 7/8 Frances Shaw Oct 20 (2)* Hulda Wormann Sept 25 (7)* Sarah Vogel Oct 21 (3)* September 4/5 Elul 15/16 Ida Landa Sept 25 (7)* Mary Sklar Oct 21 (3) Benjamin Cohen Sept 4 (15)* Anna Goorovitch Sept 27 (9) Pessie Chertkow Oct 21 (3)* Lily Ludwig Sept 4 (15) Lena Adilman Sept 27 (9)* Ben Goldstein Oct 21 (3) Louis Schulman Sept 4 (15) Eva Melamede Sept 28 (10) Oscar Mazer Oct 22 (4)* Yosil Tzalkovich Sept 4 (15) Brina Cohen Sept 28 (10)* Sylvia Caplan Oct 22 (4) Eastwood Landa Sept 5 (16) Grigory Rizhanovsky Sept 28 (10) Minnie Fogel Sept 5 (16) Solomon Switzer Sept 29 (11) October 23/24 Heshvan 5/6 Celia Greenblat Sept 5 (16) Morris Pashkovsky Sept 29 (11) Robert Miller Oct 24 (6)* Anne Pavey Sept 7 (18) Israel Chertkow Sept 29 (11)* Leiser Singer Oct 25 (7)* Rebecca Claman Sept 7 (18)* Jacob Koffman Sept 30 (12)* Michael Stier Oct 25 (7) Clara Friedman Sept 8 (19) Louis Sugarman Sept 30 (12)* Melvin Laimon Oct 25 (7)* Katharine Cantin Sept 8 (19)* Rebecca Caplan Sept 30 (12) Jack Milavsky Oct 25 (7)* Moses Levitsky Sept 9 (20)* Asher Lehrer Oct 27 (9)* Louis Ditlove Sept 9 (20)* October 2/3 Tishrei 14/15 Esar Katz Oct 27 (9)* Ida Ruskin Sept 9 (20)* Etta Minovitz Oct 2 (14)* Rose Mallin Oct 27 (9)* Ben Brandt Sept 9 (20) Semyon Khafets Oct 2 (14) Labe Rapaport Oct 28 (10) Idy Leonoff Sept 10 (21) Arthur Rapaport Oct 2 (14) Bella Spector Oct 29 (11)* Freddie Winocour Sept 10 (21) R.B. Bonder Oct 3 (15)* Clara Goldenberg Oct 29 (11)* Anna Bellas Sept 10 (21) Michael Fingard Oct 3 (15)* Solomon Waiser Oct 29 (11)* Bella Cooperman Sept 10 (21)* Henry Lehrer Oct 3 (15)* Harry Wine Sept 10 (21)* Don Adilman Oct 5 (17)* October 30/31 Heshvan 12/13 Sophie Cohen Sept 10 (21)* Fanny Tartar Oct 5 (17)* Frank Arshawsky Oct 30 (12) Gertrude Shear Oct 5 (17)* Dina Teitelbaum Oct 31 (13)* September 11/12 Elul 22/23 Miriam Sugarman Oct 6 (18) David Hamir Oct 31 (13) John Ellison Sept 11 (22) Naomi Arlinsky Oct 6 (18)* Philip Horlick Nov 1 (14) Jacob Chertkow Sept 11 (22)* Rae Burt Oct 6 (18) M. Kavsky Nov 1 (14) Harry Hallis Sept 12 (23) Moses Glick Oct 7 (19) Clara Hock Nov 1 (14) Ken Epstein Sept 12 (23)* Schmuel Bernbaum Oct 7 (19)* Elsie Rose Nov 1 (14)* Siegfried Gumprich Sept 14 (25)* Irving Levitt Oct 7 (19)* Tassie Arshawsky Nov 1 (14) Leo Bernbaum Sept 14 (25) Saul Katzman Oct 7 (19)* Esther Landau Nov 1 (14) Hersh Freifeld Sept 14 (25) Deborah Solsberg Oct 8 (20) Sonia Ghitter Nov 2 (15) William Caplan Sept 15 (26) Minnie Hussman Oct 8 (20) Karl Heubsch Nov 2 (15) Paul Landa Sept 15 (26) Bella Sklar Oct 8 (20)* Harold Livington Nov 2 (15) Samuel Pollock Sept 16 (27)* Morris Sass Nov 2 (15) Mayer Melamede Sept 17 (28) October 9/10 Tishrei 21/22 Abe Sonnenschein Nov 3 (16)* Joseph Barskey Sept 17 (28)* Abraham Katz Oct 9 (21)* Peter Brook Nov 4 (17) Malka Shacter Oct 9 (21) Celia Reznick Nov 4 (17)* September 18/19 Elul 29/Tishrei 1 Freda Bernbaum Oct 11 (23)* Rose Davidner Nov 5 (18)* Alex Pollock Sept 18 (29) Dora Goldstein Oct 11 (23) Seymour Buckwold Sept 18 (29)* Philip Baron Oct 13 (25) November 6/7 Heshvan 19/20 Sophie Stier Sept 19 (Tishrei 1) Samuel Badeker Oct 13 (25)* Michla Volansky Nov 6 (19)* Leib Cooperman Sept 19 (1)* Dorothy Brand Oct 13 (25) Frank Shwartz Nov 6 (19) Morris Brook Sept 19 (1)* Hannah Weitzman Oct 13 (25) Bella Mondrus Nov 6 (19) Esther Adilman Sept 19 (1) Sarah Friedman Oct 14 (26) Nechi Shore Nov 7 (20) Max Zaitlen Sept 19 (1)* Abraham Churchill Oct 14 (26)* Mania Winocour Nov 7 (20)* Fraide Katzman Sept 20 (2)* Jack Avol Nov 7 (20)* Joseph Rosenberg Sept 20 (2)* October 16/17 Tishrei 28/29 Liba Newman Nov 8 (21)* Malchem Neumann Sept 21 (3)* Bernice Conn Oct 16 (28)* Sarah Pollock Nov 8 (21)* Benjamin Goldstein Sept 21 (3) Sydney Goodman Oct 16 (28) Baby Brook Nov 8 (21) Yitzhak Bobowsky Sept 22 (4) Frances Cutler Oct 17 (29) Esther Davidner Nov 9 (22)* Moses Solovey Sept 23 (5) Leo Winocour Oct 17 (29) Lily Swartz Nov 9 (22)* Lou Churchill Sept 23 (5)* Meyer Entol Oct 17 (29) Richard Rushkin Nov 10 (23)* Helen Sugarman Sept 24 (6) Avram Goluboff Oct 18 (30) Bertholt Wormann Nov 11 (24)* Maurice Medline Sept 24 (6) Leo Isaacsen Oct 19 (Heshvan 1) Geraldine Jaffe Nov 12 (25)
President's Keyboard... from page 12 the time to encourage and even thank me allowed me to interact with brilliant people remains committed to serving the broadest during this time. Your support meant a great and be involved in outstanding projects. I spectrum of Jewish thought and practice deal. My sincere apologies go to those know Heather will enjoy the same and to providing a spiritual and emotional persons who wanted more than I had to opportunities. home to the Jews of Saskatoon and offer; I tried my best to be accessible, reliable Finally, I want to thank my beautiful wife, surrounding areas. We provide for the and respectful. Susan, who has been my number one spiritual, religious, educational, social needs I give my best wishes and enthusiastic supporter and confidante. She has had to of our members. We care about Israel and support to our incoming President, Heather hold the fort while I attended various providing Tikkun Olam. We do all these Fenyes. She has worked tirelessly and very meetings, made and took phone calls, things through a transparent and successfully in many roles, not the least of responded to emails and participated in all accountable elected Board of Trustees, who which has been as my advisor and manner of activities that removed me from collaboratively lead and serve our leadership partner. I am confident that she our home. We can now do our Yoga congregation. It has been an honour to be will be equally wonderful as our stretches together. your President. congregational leader. This position has It gives me great pride to know that CAI This Page is Sponsored by Clarice Buckwold z'l 14 THE 2009 B’NAI BRITH JOE ROSENBERG GOLF TOURNAMENT Unfortunately, due to rather inclimate weather, the golf component of this year’s classic event needed to be cancelled. However, in the true Saskatchewan , B’nai Brith and Jewish community spirit the party went on at Riverside Golf and Country Club. Sixty four hearty souls attended a wonderful buffet supper and were still the recipients of many prizes, mostly donated by the Rosenberg family and supplemented by the generosity of many others who brought additional prizes. Noone went home empty handed. The coveted black leather jacket donated by Mona (nee Rosenberg) and David Rich of Alan and Lesley Ann with Winnipeg and intended for the golfers only was won by Ryan winner Ryan Vancuren Vancuren, Shaina Goluboff’s boyfriend. The evening was also an opportunity to say a sad farewell to Nim and Shirly Solomon Cantor Neil drawing for THE who left for Israel the next morning and to honour Nikki Gitlin LEATHER JACKET for winning two Gold Medals in the 100 and 200 metre sprints at the Maccabbia Games in Israel. Grace Goluboff was also pleased to enjoy a weekend with her three sons, daughter in laws and all her grandchildren. We look forward to sunny golf tournament in 2010.
Maccabiah Experience... from page 5 people they are also frustratingly but like a whole city, no wait – a whole disorganized. Despite email after email and country! People were walking phone call after phone call, it seemed around in Kippot and Tsit Tsit, just between all the confusion and going about their daily life. misunderstandings that I would never get The day of the opening to Israell. And I almost didn’t! At one point ceremonies was another Ron, Jan, Josh and the entire Maccabi indescribable day -but I’ll try. At this The Gitlins with Ran and Rachelli Canada team were all on a flight to Israel particular Maccabi Games there were except me! Luckily there was one seat left 7500 athletes from all around the world from and now I should just enjoy the next one as on the plane in which they promptly put my Brazil to Kazikstan; 450 of these athletes it would be the last. He helped me to relax, tush. And for all our troubles the Gitlin’s were from Canada and I know this goes gave me a massage and sleep came relatively got promoted to Business class! That was without saying but all of them Jewish! After easy. a treat! meeting with all 7500 people with whom you The next day, I just tried to keep my Finally we were up and on our way. From share this unspeakable bond of sport and routine and do all the same things as the the moment I set foot in Israel I was in love. culture and religion, you are ushered into a day before. I told myself to just run my own We were met by musicians on stilts playing stadium that is vibrating with cheers so loud race and not worry about the other Hava Nagila. The humidity and heat hit you you cannot even hear yourself think. competitors. I was able to do this which like somebody opened the door to a sauna. Thousands more Jewish comrades there to helped keep me from being tense and I ran For the first time in my life I was surrounded support you in your mission and you want another great time. Two gold medals, truly, by Jewish people and not just like in Shul to make every single one of them proud, nothing could top this! Or so I thought. A because they too are your family. couple days later as we were basking in sun Next came the competition. The morning I received a phone call from one of the of my 100m race I donned my team Canada delegation members letting me know that I singlet and felt such pride and I thought, had been nominated for female athlete of ‘no matter what happens in the race, I am the games and I had been chosen to be the part of something big’. Before I left for Israel Canadian flag barer for the closing my coach told me that “all the hay’s in the ceremonies. What an honour! barn” meaning, I had done everything I As it turned out, the day of the closing could to prepare my self. Now all I had to ceremonies they decided to take out the flag do was let it come together. And it did. The ceremonies so I did not actually end up race was done. I had won! There are just carrying the flag, but that was ok with me no words to describe what I because the closing ceremonies were felt…joy…disbelief…where’s Josh?...did spectacular! They were in the amphitheatre that just happen?...oh my g—d! at Latrun. The Israeli talent, the Jewish People have asked me how I was able to songs and all the fireworks were the perfect sleep that night and prepare for my race the end to an amazing trip. A games I am so next day. I owe that to Josh. He kept telling proud to have been a part of was over and it me that my ultimate goal had been achieved was a trip I will never forget. This Page is sponsored by Toby Rose, Les Klein, Jonathon, Solomon and Benjamin of Toronto This page is sponsored by Lois & Walter Gumprich of Vancouver 15 September 2009 • Elul 5769/Tishrei 5770 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 Elul 12 2 Elul 13 3 Elul 14 4 Elul 15 5 Elul 16 Hadassah Service 8:00 pm PARSHAT Potluck KI TAVO Home of Lesley Crone 10:00 AM Rosenberg
*Ron Waldman
6 Elul 17 7 Elul 18 8 Elul 19 9 Elul 20 10 Elul 21 11 Elul 22 12 Elul 23 SEKHOT Sisterhood OFFICE CLOSED Meeting Max Waldman 1:00 pm Bar Mitzvah CAI 9:30 AM *Heather Fenyes
13 Elul 24 14 Elul 25 15 Elul 26 16 Elul 27 17 Elul 28 18 Elul 29 19 Tishrei 1 Annual Rosh Hashana ROSH HASHANAH General Meeting 8:00 pm Hazzan’s Sermon 9:30 am Rosh Hashana 8:00 pm
*Heather Fenyes *Heather Fenyes
20 Tishrei 2 21 Tishrei 3 22 Tishrei 4 23 Tishrei 5 24 Tishrei 6 25 Tishrei 7 26 Tishrei 8 Rosh Hashana PARSHAT HA’AZINU 9:30 am SHABBAT SHUVA President’s Address 10 am
*Marsha Scharfstein
27 Tishrei 9 28 Tishrei 10 29 Tishrei 11 30 Tishrei 12 Kever Avot Cemetery YOM KIPPUR / YIZKOR What is the noblest pedigree? Service 9:30 am Loving-Kindness. 11 am Micha and Neila 4:30 pm KOL NIDRE Hazzan’s Sermon 7:00 pm Break the Fast 7:15 pm Solomon Ibn Gabirol October 2009 • Tishrei/Heshvan 5770 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 Tishrei 13 2 Tishrei 14 3 Tishrei 15 Experience is a good school Sukkot evening SUKKOT Day 1 Shared Shabbat Dinner 10 am but the fees are high. 6 pm Heine *Lou Horlick
4 Tishrei 16 5 Tishrei 17 6 Tishrei 18 7 Tishrei 19 8 Tishrei 20 9 Tishrei 21 10 Tishrei 22 SUKKOT SH’MINI ATZERET/ 10 am YIZKOR Sukkot Party 10 am at Hazzan’s House 2 pm *Franci Holtslander
11 Tishrei 23 12 Tishrei 24 13 Tishrei 25 14 Tishrei 26 15 Tishrei 27 16 Tishrei 28 17 Tishrei 29 Simchat Torah OFFICE AMI Segev PARSHAT B’REISHIT CLOSED Dancing Obama’s Vision for the BIRKAT HACHODESH 10 am (with music) 10 am Middle East 7:30 pm - JCC
*Randy Katzman
18 Tishrei 30 19 Heshvan 1 20 Heshvan 2 21 Heshvan 3 22 Heshvan 4 23 Heshvan 5 24 Heshvan 6 Traditional Service PARSHAT NO-ACH Oneg Shabbat honouring 10 am Nikki Gitlin 8:00 pm
*Heather Fenyes *Steven Goluboff
25 Heshvan 7 26 Heshvan 8 27 Heshvan 19 28 Heshvan 10 29 Heshvan 11 30 Heshvan 12 31 Heshvan 13 PARSHAT LECH L’CHA 10 am
*David Katzman * Bema Roster 16 This page is sponsored by B’nai Brith Lodge #739