Bests Wishes For A Happy Chanukah! ב”ה www.chabadelpaso.com

The El Paso Issue 142 TIMES A publication of Chabad Lubavitch of El Paso

December 2016 | Kislev 5777 6615 Westwind Dr. • El Paso, TX 79912 • 915.584.8218

Chabad is hosting its annual Dear Friend, fundraising raffle to help support the many ongoing Celebrating 30 years of activities. Please participate in community and friendship, the raffle by purchasing one or we are filled with a sense of Thirteenth Annual Raffle more tickets and be a partner in pride and gratitude. Pride in the ensuring a vibrant Jewish future beautiful community we have in El Paso. The grand prize become and gratitude to you 2017 • 5777 is two round trip tickets to for partnering with us in this Israel ($3,000.00). The second revolutionary endeavor. Your place prize is a Writers Edition commitment and support is what “Virginia Woolf” Ballpoint enables us to reach out to every Pen. Jew in the region regardless of social status, background or One (1) ticket - $100.00 | Three affiliation. (3) Tickets - $250.00 At Chabad we aim to The raffle drawing will facilitate the spiritual growth be held on Saturday Night, of every Jew. To provide February 11. opportunities to discover our Chabad remains dedicated to glorious heritage, the beauty strengthening Jewish identity, of Torah and mitzvoth, at a unity and education in El Paso. comfortable pace and in a With each raffle ticket that you non-judgmental environment. purchase you become a partner Ongoing synagogue services, in our vital work. adult education classes, Two round trip tickets to Israel ($3,000 cash) With much appreciation for youth activities and outreach your support, programs are but a sampling of Writers Edition “Virginia Woolf” Ballpoint Pen

what goes on at Chabad. There chabadelpaso.com/raffle Rabbi and Mrs. Yisrael Greenberg is something here for everyone. Rabbi and Mrs. Levi Greenberg

Project Give Warmth EP Rock sweatshirts for kids Star Debut Performance W e A r e E l P a s o in El Paso at

With a high poverty and unemployment rate, many of El Paso’s children will not be properly prepared for winter. You Can Help Change That! Chanukah Sponsor a sweatshirt for a Festival deserving El Paso child. Drop off NEW sweatshirts at Chabad Lubavitch. Lazer Lloyd is a veteran musi- and concerts. He majored in mu- (Kindly arrange a drop off time by calling 915-584-8218) cian with quite an impressive back- sic at Skidmore College where he ground in pop, folk and rock mu- had his own band and played with Monetary donations may be made with check or online: sic. Born in New York and raised in many famous musicians such as www.chabadelpaso.com/warmthep Connecticut, he was surrounded by Milt Hinton and . his Dad’s love for playing and lis- After college he formed his own $20.00 per sweatshirt tening to music - records playing at blues/folk/rock band that played Thank you for your care and support! home and family trips to festivals original music at the local bars. He continued on page 3

Your Chanukah Guide December 24 - January 1 Page 11 Page 2 The El Paso CHABAD TIMES Kislev 5777 | December 2016

From Our Mail Box Dear Rabbi Greenberg Hello Rabbi, us today. Thank you very much for praying and It was so nice spending Shabbat The mitzvah of lighting visiting with me yesterday. It was very with your daughter-in-law and your the Chanukah menorah is to nice and the cake was delicious. May grandchildren. She was so warm and commemorate the miracle of the you have much health and happiness friendly and really impressed my oil sufficient for one night that this year and may graciousness and boys with her cooking. She offered burned for eight days and nights. mercy pervade your days. B. K. to email me some recipes so I am just An unnatural phenomenon following up on that. Dear Rabbi Levi, that reflected the selfless and We also enjoyed Shabbat morning Thank you so much to you and in Shul. You have a very nice unnatural commitment displayed Shainy for giving us such a delightful by the Maccabees in their struggle community. Yasher Koach for all of evening. We found the food delicious, your work to keep Judaism thriving against the ancient Assyrian ’m sure many of you company charming and the rituals very in El Paso! S. H. Greek empire. While the Greeks meaningful. See you soon. L. and B. remember Mr. Henry Kellen. endeavored to extinguish the A fine, intelligent individual soul of Judaism and the purity of always with a story to tell. He divine service with brute strength, was a community activist and the the Maccabees countered their founder of the El Paso Holocaust efforts with intensified faith Museum. in G-d. And their efforts were Baby Girl One evening on Chanukah 2013, amply rewarded. Zelda Rochel Rabbi Levi and I decided to visit Chanukah commemorates the Mr. Kellen in honor of the holiday. Proud Parents victory of authentic Torah over Rabbi Chaim and Moussia Goldstein He was not feeling well at the time all detractors regardless of how and when we arrived with a plate strong and sophisticated they Proud Grandparents of latkes and a Menorah with may be. Rabbi Yisrael and Chana Greenberg candles, we were told that he had This year as we gather the been in bed the entire day. When Engagement family and recite the blessings Rochel Greenberg to Abi Naparstek he was notified that we had come over the candles, please do to visit, he immediately came out not forget the many in our Proud Parents to greet us with a warm smile. community that are unable to Rabbi Yisrael and Chana Greenberg A Menorah and candles he share the joy of Chanukah with Rabbi Boruch and Braindy Naparstek already had but that year he had others. Invite them to join you not yet performed the mitzvah for a lighting, to enjoy some Wedding of kindling the Chanukah lights. latkes, a good game of dreidel Yaakov and Shiran Kaplan He had no one to celebrate with or just simply to be with others. and had not felt motivated to Proud Parents Encourage them to participate Yinon and Nili Arusi do so. Now that he had guests, in community celebrations and he was overjoyed to light his offer a ride etc. And if they can’t Jonathan and Abigail Kaplan own menorah. It is difficult to leave home, bring the light and Eli and Chaya Lebovics express the feeling seeing this joy of Chanukah to their places. courageous man, a survivor of Proud Parents The more light we share the Enoch and Yocheved Kimmelman the most gruesome atrocities greater our own light becomes. against our people, proudly recite Best wishes for a wonderful Dr. Irving and Shirley Lebovics the blessings of praise to G-d for Chanukah. the miracles he wrought for our Special Birthday ancestors in ancient times and for Rabbi Yisrael Greenberg Meralee Schlusselberg

Shainy's Challah Grace your Shabbat table with freshly home baked Challah! One for $6 | Two for $10 Orders due every Wednesday at noon. [email protected] | 915.204.6581

In This Issue ADVERTISE IN THE EL PASO CHABAD TIMES 13th Annual Raffle...... p 1 Reach every Jewish household in El Paso is published by Project Give Warmth EP...... p 1 Lazer Lloyd Coming To Town...... p 1 ADVERTISING OPTIONS CHABAD LUBAVITCH The Rabbi’s Message...... p 2 Business Card $100 Half Page $500 OF EL PASO Mazel Tov...... p 2 Double Business Card $180 Full Page $700 6615 Westwind Drive From Our Mail Box...... p 2 A Message from the Lubavitcher Rebbe...p 3 El Paso, Texas 79912 Chabad In All 50 States...... p 4 Call Chabad at 915-584-8218 to place your ad now! (915) 584-8218 The Eternal Flames...... p 4 [email protected] 30th Anniversary Celebration ...... p 5 Actions Speak Louder Than Words...... p 5 Chabad In Photos...... p 6-7 Director When Life Is Good...... p 8 RABBI YISRAEL GREENBERG Kids In The Kitchen...... p 8 Editor Gan Israel Winter Camp...... p 8 Chanukah Story...... p 9 RABBI LEVI GREENBERG Celebrate Chassidus...... p 9 Menorah Workshop at Home Depot...... p 10 The Chabad Times is published Raffle Ticket...... p 10 five times a year for the Jewish 10 Tevet...... p 10 Holidays. Ongoing Programs at Chabad...... p 10 Chabad of El Paso does not certify Your Chanukah Guide...... p 11 the kashrut of its advertisers. Chanukah Calendar...... p 11 New Building Project...... p 12 Kislev 5777 | December 2016 The El Paso CHABAD TIMES Page 3 A Holiday Message from the Lubavitcher Rebbe that mitzvos are a unique means of connecting to Gd which take us beyond human limits. In light of this, we can understand why the Greeks were so intent on defiling the oil. They wanted the Menorah to be lit with impure oil so that its light, symbolic of the light of Torah, would shine forth not in its pristine purity, but with a human, Greek touch. The Jews responded to this challenge with self-sacrifice that leaps beyond the limits of reason. Though they were pitted against the During their occupation of the world’s strongest military power, Holy Land, the Greeks entered they were determined to fight, and Do a good deed today ... the Temple and defiled all the vessels even to surrender their lives, to of olive oil they found. After their maintain the spiritual purity of their defeat, the Maccabees were able to heritage. And help others do find only one cruse of oil with the The self-sacrifice which they seal of the High Priest intact. Though displayed is symbolized by the one it contained enough oil for only one cruse of oil which still bore the seal a good deed tomorrow! day, the rekindled Menorah burned of the High Priest. miraculously for eight days, enough Every individual has his “one time for new oil to be prepared. cruse of oil,” begging to be The Greeks’ defiling of the oil discovered. A person may not was obviously intentional and uncover this internal connection to systematic; they neither used it nor Gd in the ordinary circumstances Remember destroyed it. What did they gain by of his life. But when challenged, defiling it? as in the case of the Maccabees, This question can be answered by this inner connection will surface. Chabad Lubavitch analyzing the nature of the conflict And when this Divine bond comes between the Greeks and the Jews. to the fore, “[Gd will] deliver the While building their empire, the mighty into the hands of the weak, of El Paso in your will. Greeks did not usually attempt to the many into the hands of the few,” eradicate indigenous populations. for nothing can withstand its power. Instead, their goal was to Hellenize In their struggle against the and assimilate them into their Greeks, the Maccabees tapped culture. This was their policy when this resource - this single cruse of they imposed their rule over Eretz oil, revealing a level of soul that Yisrael. transcended their usual limits. In The Greeks appreciated the response, Gd revealed miracles that wisdom and beauty of the Torah. transcended the natural limits of this What they opposed was the concept world. of Torah as Gdly revelation. They The Chanukah miracle which would have liked the Jewish people followed serves as an eternal to study Torah in the same way they testimony to the essential would have studied human wisdom, connection to Gd that the Greeks without thinking of its Gdliness that sought to sever. In our day as transcends the bounds of intellect. well, the Chanukah lights remind Likewise, the Greeks did not us that through an appreciation of object to the fulfillment of the the infinite Gdly, dimension of the commandments per se, recognizing Torah and its commandments, we that every culture, including can kindle the potential for light we their own, has rituals. Their all possess within our souls. antagonism was aroused by the idea was meeting success and Atlantic records liked along with a supple cover of Otis Redding’s On December 27, Lazer will bring his band so much that they brought them to New “(Sittin’ on the) Dock of the Bay,” is beating his musical talent and passion to the York to showcase. He was offered various re- out the likes of Buddy Guy on the blues charts borderland region. His debut appear- cording opportunities, but then his discovery of on indie American radio stations. Magazines ance in El Paso will be held at Chabad authentic Jewish life moved him to travel to Is- like Relix and Downbeat have featured stories Lubavitch at the annual community rael. on him, and he’s been traveling back and forth Chanukah celebration. The entire He studied in a Yeshiva and subsequently between Israel and the US, where he’s been per- married and in 1994 started a decade with the forming in blues festivals and showcasing in community is invited to participate psychedelic Israeli Reva L’Sheva. clubs around the country. and to be inspired! Continuing solo work on the side, Lazer be- His beard, tzitzit and spirituality have made When: Tuesday, gan to attract international attention with his him a media darling in the ethnically diverse December 27 at 6:00pm self-released folk-rock CD “Higher Ground” in melting pot of America, where a Hendrix-play- Where: Chabad Lubavitch, 2004. His blues-rock power trio expanded ing Israeli hassid grabs headlines. 6615 Westwind Drive the ripples capturing fans with “Passin’ Over” In addition to live songwriting sessions and Admission: FREE | Co-sponsorship: $1,000 (2007) and “Real People” (2008). In 2011 he sharing his latest guitar finds, Lloyd discusses See insert for details. put out “Lazer Lloyd Unplugged”, “Blues in Tel his philosophies of “being a bridge”, “never Aviv”, and the Hebrew song collection “Hane- giving up” and other concepts on his regular shama”. Then Lloyd’s 2012 “My Own Blues” live Facebook sessions. electric release was named best blues album by “The breakout after the 2015 album and the the Israeli Blues Society and sent to the Mem- social media breakthrough in January 2016 led phis International Blues Competition. to tens of thousands of people sending me per- US roots music fans are picking up the Lazer sonal messages with thanks for the music and Lloyd gauntlet. His new self-titled album, re- sharing the pains and joys of their lives …. I leased on Chicago’s Lots of Love Records la- see that the songs really touched people, each in bel and featuring 11 original songs that range their own way. This is unbelievably gratifying from scorching rockers to heart-tugging ballads, and humbling to me.” Page 4 The El Paso CHABAD TIMES Kislev 5777 | December 2016

Historic Milestone Reached at the annual Chabad Lubavitch Emissaries Convention A permanent presence in every state with the establishment of Chabad in South Dakota

By Rabbi Yisrael Greenberg Once again, I attended the an- resentative to El Paso) during the nual International Conference Shabbat Farbrengen, the Rebbe ex- of Shluchim (Chabad Rabbis) in plained the necessity of establish- Brooklyn, NY. It was my 30th year ing a permanent Chabad presence participating in this magnificent in even the most remote locations display of Jewish leadership. Col- and communities. Our universe is leagues representing almost every a combination of numerous details. Jewish community in the world If one detail is missing, the entire met, shared ideas and inspiration to world is incomplete. The same is bring the message of living Judaism true with the Jewish nation. If we to every Jew on the planet. would only operate in areas that I greeted my nephew and niece generate large turnout, New York, Rabbi Mendel and Mussie Alp- Chicago, Israel and the like, there erowitz, the recently appointed is a large section of our people that Shluchim to the state of South Da- will be left behind. kota. The final state in the union This is why the Alperowitzs are to have a permanent Chabad pres- Rabbi Mendel and Mussie Alperowitz and their two children will move to Sioux Falls City, South Dakota moving to South Dakota. And this ence. To be sure, the chances for in time for the holiday of Chanukah. is why we are proud to be here in establishing a large synagogue or a larger communities with a denser individuals: What is the future of El Paso despite the fact that it will functioning Day School are close to Jewish population. Certainly the this child? What are the chances never be Brooklyn. none. The Jewish population is in data would confirm this position. of survival? Is it worth your time We have a mission to inspire the state is miniscule and spread out In the NICU one can find a tiny and energy? The response would every Jew to grow in Torah study throughout the state. infant laying in a crib surrounded certainly be that it does not matter. and Mitzvah observance. To recite You may ask, is it worth-while by a team of highly educated, expe- Each moment of life they can pro- a blessing before drinking a glass of for a young, talented and idealis- rienced and talented physicians and vide for this tiny human being is water, to give some coins to tzeda- tic couple to establish themselves nurses equipped with sophisticated precious and invaluable. ka every day, light a candle before in such a remote locale to provide and expensive machines and equip- This is the Rebbe’s view of a Shabbat and the list goes on. Trans- some semblance of Judaism to a ment. They toil to find the proper Jew. Each and every one is valuable forming ourselves and the world handful of Jews? Perhaps their en- treatment for the baby and spend and cannot be forgotten. one mitzvah at a time. ergy and talents would reap greater hours monitoring the progress. If At the convention in 1986, (the We are all partners in this monu- gains if they would be invested in one were to ask these courageous first year I participated as the rep- mental endeavor. Jewish Women’s Circle Paint Night

By ShainyThe Greenberg Eternal Flames On Wednesday evening, by a sense of mission to serve G-d, November 16th, Chabad hosted a and ultimately result in fostering Jewish Women’s Circle event at I more goodness and kindness in our Panted That! social art studio. Here families, communities and the entire are some of the thoughts I shared world. with my fellow painters about the You will notice that there are three image we painted together. candles in the sketch. It is customary This week the Jewish world for married women to kindle two is learning about the story of Shabbat candles. The third, shorter Abraham our forefather. He was candle is for the daughter. The Rebbe the revolutionary trailblazer that encouraged young girls, from the discovered G-d on his own at the age of three, to join their mothers young age of three. Instead of in ushering in Shabbat by lighting a keeping the news to himself, he candle of their own – obviously with risked his life to enlighten anyone mom’s assistance. The educational he can reach and ultimately became implications are enormous. This is the forefather of Jewish nation. not only a way to train the child into In the course of the the mitzvah. Her current action as biblical narrative of his life and The Talmud relates, that Sarah The mitzvah of kindling the a young girl, before Bat Mitzvah, accomplishments we find that would light candles to usher in the Shabbat candles is symbolic of the already has immediate results. She his wife Sarah was of equal Shabbat. Miraculously, these flames role of the Jewish woman to illuminate has made her home a brighter place righteousness, prominence and would continue to glow until the her home with love and warmth. As and as a result the entire world is courage. In fact, the Chassidic next Friday afternoon. Upon her Shabbat approaches, bringing pause better off than before. masters teach that the impact passing this miracle ceased – even to the hectic and mundane realities of The third candle represents the Avraham had on the world was only though Avraham continued the life – the Shabbat candles shed light unbroken chain of every Jewish due to the unique qualities of Sarah. custom each week. When Yitzchak on the accomplishments of the past woman linked through our long and She was his partner in all of his married the righteous Rivkah, this week and beacon forth a bright week glorious history – directly to Sarah endeavors to bring the knowledge weekly miracle resumed with her to come. Shabbat reminds us that and Rivkah – the mothers of the of G-d to the world. Shabbat candles. everything we do should be motivated Jewish people. Kislev 5777 | December 2016 The El Paso CHABAD TIMES Page 5 30th Anniversary Celebration of Chabad in El Paso A Fitting Tribute to Three Decades of Community On a Sunday evening in mid- before we boarded the plane to El September an overflowing crowd Paso, Chani, our baby Levi and participated in an evening of trib- myself took leave of the Rebbe at ute, celebrating 30 years since the Lubavitch world Headquarters. The establishment of Chabad Lubavitch Rebbe blessed us with these words. in El Paso. As the beautiful sounds ‘Healthy travels and may you re- of classic Jewish tunes and Chas- port good tidings.’ This blessing sidic melodies filled the room, accompanies us to this day.” participants were pleased to see a “G-d directs the steps of man. special celebratory edition of the El When our friends and family heard Paso Chabad Times that had been that we were assigned to El Paso published for the event. A cross their eyes widened in disbelief. El section of the entire Jewish com- Pasoans would joke that we were munity was represented in the room punished to serve in such a remote and the impact of Chabad in town location. But we have always been was evident from the get go. confident in the Rebbe’s blessing It was an opportunity for in- and appreciative of the opportunity. spiration and thanksgiving. In that to put all the components together. means more to Steve and I than you Today, 30 years later, there is much spirit, the sounding of the Shofar Rabbi and Chani made the dream will ever know.” to be proud of and to celebrate.” opened the proceedings followed real.” (See the full transcript of Mr. Rabbi Yisrael Greenberg reflect- “All that has been accomplished by a prayer of thanksgiving recited Schlusselberg’s remarks below.) ed on the unlikely circumstances of is due to the staunch support and by Mr. Louis Rosenbaum. A week The pride of a community is the establishment of Chabad in El loyal friendship of each and every prior, Mayor Oscar Leeser and the the ability to welcome newcomers Paso, Texas in 1986. Born in Soviet one of you. We look forward to El Paso City Council had dedicat- and provide the ability for them Russia during the Khrushchev era many more years of development ed Sunday, September 11, 2016 as to adjust in the most comfortable of the 1960s, his parents were re- and accomplishments and to cele- Chabad Lubavitch Day in El Paso way possible. In an emotional ad- peatedly denied permission to emi- brating many milestones together.” with a City Proclamation. The dress, Mrs. Wendy Lanski shared grate. The fact that his father was The featured speaker of the event proclamation was read at the event her experience of moving with a graduate of Stalin’s gulags where was the indefatigable Marthe Cohn, by Mrs. Linda Holzer. her husband Dr. Steve to our des- he languished for seven years due a courageous WWII Jewish French A message is best conveyed by ert town from Atlanta, GA. “When to the crime of trying to leave the Spy and the author of the interna- way of a story. As a lifelong El Steve came for his interview he anti-Jewish Soviet Communist uto- tionally best-selling memoir Be- Pasoan, Mr. Sidney Schlusselberg took three photos. The beautiful pia did not help matters. Miracu- hind Enemy Lines. She shared her provided a glimpse into the rich, mountains, Sunland Park Mall and lously, they received the requisite unbelievable story of being a young comprehensive and lasting impres- Chabad Lubavitch. He knew me so visas in 1967 and the entire extend- Jewish girl persecuted by the Nazis sion Chabad has had on the lives of well.” Upon moving to town they ed family emigrated to Israel. As a and ultimately playing a decisive so many over these past 30 years. “I instantly felt welcome. As the fami- teenager he transferred to Brook- role in several Allied victories over attribute the high quality lifestyle in ly grew with the birth of Libi and, a lyn, NY to study in the presence her tormentors. Her wit and humor El Paso to Chabad.” Recalling the year later, Liam, “Rabbi and Chani of the Rebbe. After marrying a girl was appreciated by all and many arrival of Rabbi and Chana Green- were first to come to the hospital to from Italy, the two searched for a purchased copies of her book which berg in the summer of 1986 he be sure we were set up for Shab- post to fulfill the wish of the Rebbe she signed following her talk. observed, “We had all the compo- bat.” to bring the light and warmth of liv- A bright future beacons the en- nents for an authentic Jewish life- “Libi and Liam will forever ing Judaism to every corner of the tire Jewish community of El Paso. style, but we needed someone with have El Paso on their birth certifi- world. dreams, wisdom, vision and energy cates and Chabad on their hearts. It “On that summer day in 1986, Actions Speak Louder Than Words Dear Friends, Good evening, I’d bi and Chani’s Paso at ten years the sum of our parts. like to introduce myself. I’m Sid- eight children old. Unlike most And this was the dream of the ney Schlusselberg and I’m home- grow up in El Paso youths, Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Schneer- grown. I was born in El Paso and front of our he returned as a son. Tonight we are celebrating an raised in El Paso. El Paso is my eyes. Now, Rabbi, at age 25 amazing milestone, countless ac- home and I love it here. one by one, with Shainy, to complishments and many noble Often people ask me about my they have establish their deeds carried out quietly by Rabbi hometown and I say that we live a started their family here and and Chani of Chabad , El Paso, very high quality life, in the slow own journeys, continue the good over the past 30 years. And they lane. I attribute the high quality as emissar- works of Chabad. are not finished. lifestyle to Chabad, El Paso. ies worldwide. As I men- We, the community, can look When Rabbi, Chani and little From Shmulik tioned, AC- back on what’s been accomplished Levi moved to town 30 years ago, in Odessa – not TIONS SPEAK with satisfaction and we should be we had all the components for an the one in Tex- LOUDER THAN inspired to think about our ability authentic Jewish lifestyle, but we as, to Mous- WORDS. to continue to enhance and shape needed someone with dreams, wis- sia at Drexel El Paso is the Jewish future here. dom, vision and energy to put all University in a small, unique Chabad, to the entire Greenberg the components together. Rabbi, Philadelphia Jewish communi- family, who has enriched us all by Chani and the addition of all eight and Shterna in ty. We are small their good deeds and to our pre- Greenberg’s made the dream real. Poway Califor- in numbers, but cious community. Actions speak louder than words. nia. But the pride that I have in my each of us counts and makes a dif- We look forward to many future Rabbi, Chani and now Rabbi heart is that they, too, all proudly ference. If we work together and years of fulfillment. Enjoy the spir- Levi and Shainy lead by example. call El Paso home. use the best of each of our qualities, it of the evening! We have been fortunate to see Rab- We watched little Levi leave El our WHOLE will be greater than Page 6 The El Paso CHABAD TIMES Kislev 5777 | December 2016 CELEBRATION 30

Pizza In The Sukkah

Sukkot Luncheon for seniors at the Chabad Sukkah. Kids in the Kitchen Chillin’ and Grillin’ Kislev 5777 | December 2016 The El Paso CHABAD TIMES Page 7 The Mega Challah Bake

High Holiday Children’s Fair

Jewish Women’s Circle Paint Night Out at the I Painted That! Social Art Studio. Page 8 The El Paso CHABAD TIMES Kislev 5777 | December 2016

From the Rabbis’ Blog www.chabadelpaso.com/blog “Never mind, G-d; I found a You have rendered Your servant, G-d. As such, the expectation of spot.” for with my staff I crossed this Jor- his divine service is far greater. • dan, and now I have become two The protocol of proper etiquette It is natural to improve our be- camps. Now deliver me from the expected of those in the courtyard havior when confronted by crisis. hand of my brother, from the hand of the palace cannot be compared After all, we believe that G-d runs of Esau, for I am afraid of him, lest to that which is expected of those the world and in the basic premise he come and strike me, [and strike] standing in the throne-room. of reward and punishment. When a mother with children.” This was Jacob’s concern: Due we feel the need for special divine On the surface, this prayer is to his great fortune, perhaps he is intervention, it is indeed proper to quite puzzling. He begins with the not living up to G-d’s expectations entreat G-d that He should provide fact that G-d had assured him that of him in his newfound level of it and in turn we raise the bar of our ‘I will do good to you’, i.e. protect closeness to G-d. In the words of religious observance to be deserv- Jacob and his family from all harm; Rashi, Jacob worried that “perhaps ing of it. and ends off by expressing his ter- I have been sullied with sin” and Rabbi Levi Greenberg The narrative of our forefather ror that Esau may succeed in his therefore no longer worthy of such Jacob presents a different angle. endeavor to harm them! Did Jacob divine protection. When Life Is Good Having survived a potentially fatal entertain any doubts whether G-d Jacob teaches us that our behav- A young entrepreneur is late for encounter with his father-in-law would fulfill His promise? ior must improve specifically when an important business meeting. Af- Laban, he now faces the equally After mentioning G-d’s promise things are good. The deal went ter unsuccessfully circling the con- dangerous threat of his brother to protect him, Jacob describes the through – increase in your gen- gested downtown streets in search Esau. He turns to G-d with the fol- great kindness he had experienced. erosity. Your child was offered a of a parking spot, our budding ne- lowing prayer (Genesis 32:10-12): He arrived in Charan a penniless scholarship to the dream university gotiator strikes a deal with G-d. “O G-d of my father Abraham fugitive and was now returning to – perhaps it is time to affix more “If I find a parking spot with am- and G-d of my father Isaac, the Canaan merely 20 years later as the mezuzos in your home. Everyone ple time to make it to this meeting L-rd, Who said to me, ‘Return to patriarch of a large family having is healthy – consider koshering the twenty percent of the profit goes your land and to your birthplace, accumulated much wealth. Being kitchen. to charity.” Lo and behold – a spot and I will do good to you.’ I have on the receiving end of so much The best way to thank G-d for cleared directly in front of the sky- become small from all the kind- blessing from Above is an indica- the good in our lives is by raising scraper he needed to enter. nesses and from all the truth that tion of extreme “closeness” with the bar of our Jewish observance.

Kids In The Kitchen KITK is a unique culinary experience. Through the year children cook and experiment in an environment that fosters discovery and creativity. Ages 3-12 • Sundays • 3:00pm - 4:00pm Pastry Delights! December 18 - Indulge your sweet tooth on some favorite Jewish baked goodies! Rugelach for starters.....

Kids Mega Challah Bake! January 22 - Have a blast creating traditional Shabbath Challah with all your friends!

Breakfast Favorites! February 12 - Enjoy the early morning feeling with muffins, fresh juice and a surprise!

English Fish and Chips May 7 - Dabble with some Trans-Altantic cuisine and enjoy hearty dinner! For more info and to rsvp please contact [email protected] or call 915-204-6581

Camp Gan Israel Winter Camp! Chabad Education Center ‐ 6516 Escondido Drive

December 28‐29 | 9:00am ‐ 3:00pm

Children Ages 2 ‐ 12

For more info and to register, contact Shainy: 915‐204‐6581 | [email protected] Kislev 5777 | December 2016 The El Paso CHABAD TIMES Page 9 The Large Chanukah Candles Pesachya could never get used Pesachya took out the candles to it. Every year, he would go to and stuck them in a mound of the shelf, take down the family snow by the roadside. With tears Menora, and place it carefully in streaming down his face, he his suitcase. Then, with a bitter recited the blessings, and kindled sigh, he would say to his wife,”So the tall candles. I won’t be with you and the As he watched them he thought children for Chanuka once again of his family, his poor children, this year. What can I do. I must so many miles away. The he be in the forests to supervise the remembered the way the Rebbe wood-cutting.” had looked at him that last “Maybe this year will be summer, and his mind was full of different,” his wife had said, the vision of his holy face. for this past summer Pesachya Suddenly he heard a shout. had received a special blessing. “Stop where you are, all of you.” It had been quite unexpected. The forest was bristling with Pesachya was paying his yearly armed men. “You’re all under visit to Rabbi Sholom Dov Ber of check to make sure that he had the we’ll kill you!” they said. arrest.” Lubavitch. right number of candles with him Roughly they search him, The Duke’s private soldiers “Pesachya,” the Rebbe had to light that evening. taking his jacket and his money rushed forward, grabbing the said quietly, “no doubt it is hard One morning, Pesachya awoke belt. Then with a shove, they robbers, and holding them at for you to be away from home at a little later than usual. Hurriedly threw him down on the icy dark gunpoint. Chanuka time. he bundled himself up, and ran road. “At last we’ll make these woods “This year, be sure to take down the forest path. Suddenly he Pesachya’s head pounded as safe,” said a man dressed in warm along a supply of big candles. realized that he had forgotten the he heard a voice say, “Hold him furs, whom Pesachya recognized May the Al-mighty bless you Chanuka candles. Another delay, steady. Let’s get it over with.” as the wealthy Duke, owner of the with a bright Chanuka, and give he thought. Maybe he should “Wait, wait!” cried Pesachya forest. you much success in the business leave them until later. No. Better desperately. “Don’t kill me, “You...you saved my life,” too.” Pesachya was astonished, go back and get them after all. Please. Spare my life. I beg you. cried Pesachya. “How did you speechless. It was as if the Rebbe Despite the late start, the day I have a wife, children. Mercy!” find me?” had looked into the hidden areas turned out well. Finally, as it “Quiet!” a voice growled. “You “Why, your candles,” said the of his heart to discover that old grew dark, Pesachya dismissed can forget about them.” Duke. “We noticed them from the pain. his workers and began to trudge “Master of the World,” said main road as we rode by. They led The Rebbe had spoken very toward his lonely cabin. Pesachya to himself, and cried us right to you. naturally, but his words were “Stop Jew!” said a gruff voice, out the Shema Yisrael prayer. “They’re for your holiday, puzzling. As Pesachya dutifully sending a chill of fear down his Suddenly he remembered the aren’t they?” the Duke said went to purchase “the big spine. Pesachya looked up, as a candles. “Wait, listen,” he begged. curiously. “It just shows, a bit of candles,” he wondered what the rough band of woodsmen laid hold “If these are my last minutes, let religion never hurts, does it?” Rebbe really had in mind. of him, the tallest brandishing a me at least light the candles for Pesachya smiled gratefully. “I..I When Chanuka came, Pesachya large axe. the holiday of Chanuka.” can never thank you enough.” remembered the Rebbe’s “Robbers! Help!” he cried, but “All right, if that’s your last And as he spoke, his eyes filled instructions. Every morning he no one heard a sound. One grabbed wish. But make it quick,” the with a look of wonder, as he rose early to study and pray. Then, him from behind. Another stunned robbers said. realized at last what the Rebbe before leaving the cabin, he would him with a blow. “Don’t fight or With trembling fingers, had meant. Celebrate Chassidus: The Key to a Joyful Judaism The 19th of Kislev is celebrated the movement itself was on trial by the Chabad community as the before the Heavenly court. Is it “Rosh Hashanah of Chassidism.” proper to reveal the most intimate Farbrengens—informal secrets of Torah, which had been gatherings at which expositions of the exclusive province of a select Chassidic teaching and words of few in each generation, to the inspiration mingle with melody, public at large? Is it proper to dance and l’chaims—are held in clothe them in garments of reason, every community, and chassidim so that these essentially supra- wish each other a “good year in rational truths should take the form the learning of Chassidut and the of a rational philosophy and creed? ways of Chassidut.” Rabbi Schneur Zalman’s release The 19th of Kislev marks the from earthly prison signified his day, in the year 5559 (1798), that vindication above: the Heavenly the founder of Chabad Chassidism, court had ruled that the time had Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi, indeed come for the inner light was released from imprisonment of Torah to be revealed and to in Czarist Russia. Rabbi Schneur illuminate the world. Zalman had been arrested on charges, put forth by opponents new adherents, and its teachings formulas, at greater length and in a Yud Tes Kislev will be of Chassidism, that his activities, were far more broadly and freely manner that more readily allowed celebrated this year on and the movement he founded, disseminated. Rabbi Schneur their intellectual assimilation. December 19-20. contained treasonous elements. Zalman’s style of teaching also On a deeper level, the arrest Join us on Tuesday, His exoneration and release assumed a new form: he now and liberation were interpreted by December 20 at 7:30pm for a marked Chassidism’s victory expounded on the “soul of Torah,” Rabbi Schneur Zalman and his Farbrengen and a fascinating over those who sought to destroy previously presented only in followers as the earthly speculum in depth study about the it; following the 19th of Kislev, the form of terse Kabbalistic of a supernal drama, in which teachings of Chassidus. the movement gained many Page 10 The El Paso CHABAD TIMES Kislev 5777 | December 2016

10 Tevet On the 10th day of the Jewish month of Tevet, in the year 3336 from Creation (425 BCE), the armies of the Babylonian emperor Nebuchadnezzar laid siege to Jerusalem. Thirty months later—on 9 Tammuz 3338—the city walls were breached, and on 9 Av of that year the Holy Temple was destroyed. The Jewish people were exiled to Babylonia for 70 years. Thirteenth Annual Raffle The 10th of Tevet (this year, January 8) is observed as a day of fasting, mourning and repentance. We refrain from food and drink from daybreak to nightfall and add selichot and other special supplements to our prayers. More recently, 10 Tevet was chosen to also 2017 • 5777 serve as a “general kaddish day” for the victims of the Holocaust, many of whose day of martyrdom is unknown. Fast begins: 5:46 am | Fast ends: 5:46 pm Ongoing Programs at Chabad Sunday Monday Tuesday Shacharit 9:00am Shacharit 7:00am Shacharit 8:30am Maariv 7:00pm Maariv 7:00pm Downtown Talmud Class 12:00 noon - 1:00pm Maariv 7:00pm Two round trip tickets Torah Studies 7:30pm to Israel ($3,000 cash) Wednesday Thursday Friday Shacharit 8:30am Shacharit 7:00am Shacharit 8:30am The Writers Edition Maariv 7:00pm Bi-Monthly Lunch and Learn Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00pm “Virginia Woolf” Women’s Nigh Out 12:00pm Class for Women Maariv 7:00pm 7:30pm - 8:30pm chabadelpaso.com/raffle Shabbat

Shacharit 9:30 am • Followed by A Sit Down Kiddush • Mincha will follow the Kiddush YES! I want to partner with Chabad by purchasing: Childrens Program 11:00am • Maariv, Havdalah and film after Shabbat 1 ticket ($100) 2 tickets ($200) 3 tickets ($250) 4 tickets ($350) 5 tickets ($450) 6 tickets ($500) Other____ Chabad is always hosting new classes and programs. To receive updates, e-mail [email protected] or visit us online at chabadelpaso.com Kislev 5777 | December 2016 The El Paso CHABAD TIMES Page 11 The Festival of Chanukah

Greeks. Miraculously, the one-day doorpost across the mezuzah and a vicious Greek general. She supply burned for eight days until some place it at the window facing served him salty cheese followed new oil could be prepared under the street. Kindled at sunset or by wine to quench his thirst. As conditions of ritual purity. nightfall, the candles should burn he slept, Judith seized his sword at least half an hour after dark. and slew him. Realizing that their o commemorate and On Friday, December 30th, the head had fallen his soldiers ran off publicize these miracles, Chanukah lights are kindled before in confusion and the Jews were the sages instituted the the Shabbat candle lighting time. saved. festivalT of Chanukah. At the heart of (Shabbat begins once the Shabbat Before lighting the Menorah the the festival is the nightly Menorah candles are lit, so it is forbidden to first night, first kindle the Shamash lighting: a single flame on the first light the Menorah later.) Saturday ‘servant’ candle, and recite the night, two on the second evening, night, the Chanukah candles are lit following three blessings. Each and so on till the eighth night of after the “Havdalah” ceremony bids additional night recite the first two Chanukah, when all eight lights are farewell to Shabbat. See calendar blessings only. kindled. below for Shabbat times. It is customary to sit by the hanukah - the eight-day his year, we usher in Menorah, tell stories and sing BLESSINGS festival of light that begins Chanukah by lighting the songs. We do not benefit directly 1) Bo-ruch A-toh Ado-noi E-lo- on the eve of Kislev 25 first candle on Saturday from the light of the candles, only hei-nu Me-lech night,T December 24th after 5:48 from the shamash or regular lights Ha-olom A-sher Ki-de-sha-nu Be- C- celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, of purity over pm. in the room. mitz-vo-sav Ve-tzi-va-nu Le-had-lik adulteration, of spirituality over The Menorah’s 8 lights must Women refrain from household Ner Cha-nu-kah. materiality. be of equal height, all in a row. chores during the half-hour that Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, More than twenty-one centuries To differentiate it from the other the lights burn, honoring the brave King of the Universe, Who sanctified ago, the Holy Land was ruled by Chanukah candles, the Shamash Jewish heroines who played crucial us by His commandments, and the Seleucids (Syrian-Greeks), ‘servant’ candle is placed a little roles in the Chanukah story. commanded us to kindle the light of who sought to forcefully Hellenize higher or lower. Chanukah. the people of Israel. Most Menorahs use candles, 2) Bo-ruch A-toh Ado-noi Elo-hei- The cruel King Antiochus while some prefer olive oil with PRAYERS nu Me-lech forced the Greek pantheon of idol wicks that can be purchased or “Hallel” is recited in the morning Ha-olom She-o-so Ni-sim La- worship on Israel in 164 B.C.E. He homemade by twisting a puff of prayers. We add “Al Hanissim” in avo-sei-nu appointed apostates who adopted absorbent cotton into a 2-3 inch the Amida and during the Grace Ba-yom-mim Ha-heim Biz-man Greek names, dress and thought string. after meals. Ha-zeh. to reduce the holy Torah to mere An electric menorah does not We give Chanukah “Gelt” to Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, literature, rather than Divine truth. fulfill the Mitzvah obligation, but children, encouraging them to King of the Universe, Who made But many Jews remained loyal to may be placed in addition to a donate some to charity. Gifts of miracles for our ancestors in those the Torah, so the angry Antiochus candle or oil menorah to promote books, games or toys are also days, at this time. sent soldiers to attack them and Chanukah awareness. given in addition to the ‘Gelt’ coins to enforce his rules. The Greeks A holiday of renewal and tradition. (The following blessing is forbade Jewish practice, but the rededication, Chanukah promotes The Draydel spinner with recited the first time you kindle the faithful Jews defied their ban on Jewish heritage. Children should Hebrew letters on its four sides Menorah.) Torah study, circumcision and light their own Menorahs. is available in metal, plastic or 3) Bo-ruch A-toh Ado-noi E-lo- Shabbat. In the absence of a designed wood in various colors and sizes. hei-nu me-lech Heroic Jews like Chana and Menorah, any metal containers may The Syrian Greeks forbade Torah Ha-olom She-heh-che-yoh-nu her seven sons refused to bow be used, making sure there is no study, but the Jews defied the ban Ve-ki-yi-mo-nu Ve-he-ge-o-nu Liz- to a Greek idol, and the elderly fire hazard. During the Holocaust and learned in hiding. If Greek man Ha-zeh. Matisyahu from Modin and his five and Communist oppression, Jews soldiers discovered a Torah class, Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, sons the ‘Maccabees’ revolted improvised Menorahs from hollowed the children would disguise their King of the Universe, Who kept us against the oppression and potatoes filled with margarine or studies by pretending they were alive and preserved us, and enabled prevailed over the mighty Greeks. fat. Israeli soldiers have used spent just playing a Draydel game. us to reach this time. Against all odds, a small band of ammunition canisters lined in a row We light an additional candle faithful Jews defeated one of the as their Menorah. each night of Chanukah, leading up mightiest armies on earth, drove On the first night, the flame on HOLIDAY FOODS to the lighting of all eight candles on the Greeks from the land, reclaimed the Menorah’s extreme right is Recalling the Chanukah Oil Saturday night, December 31st. the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and lit. Another flame is added to the Miracle, it is customary to eat fried rededicated it to the service of left of the previous flame each foods: potato Latke pancakes and Earliest Time G-d. succeeding night. The new flame Sufganiot doughnuts. When they sought to light the is lit first, followed by the flame to Dairy specialties recall the for Chanukah Candlelighting Temple’s menorah they found only its right, and so on, until all eight heroine Judith who charmed her (except Friday & Saturday) a single cruse of olive oil that had flames are kindled. way into the enemy camp, and is after sunset - 5:11pm escaped contamination by the The Menorahs are placed at the gained the confidence of Helifornos, Chabad-Lubavitch Chanukah Calendar

Saturday, Light Chanukah Candles after ...... 5:48pm Wednesday, Camp Gan Israel Winter Camp …………. …… 9:00am - 3:00pm December 24 Havdalah, Latkes, Refreshments, Film and December 28 See page 8 for details Public Menorah Lighting …………..... …… 7:30pm Public Menorah Lighting at Chabad ………….……… 7:00pm

Thursday, Camp Gan Israel Winter Camp …………. …… 9:00am - 3:00pm Sunday, Public Menorah Lighting at Chabad …………...... 7:00pm December 29 See page 8 for details December 25 Public Menorah Lighting at Chabad ………….……… 7:00pm

Monday, Chanukah Party at the Royal Estates ……………...... 6:00pm Friday, Public Menorah Lighting at Chabad …………....…… 3:30pm December 26 Public Menorah Lighting at Chabad ……………...... 7:00pm December 30 Light Chanukah Candles before lighting Shabbat candles Light Shabbat Candles ……………………………... 4:54pm

Tuesday, Chanukah Children’s Extravaganza ………….....…… 4:30pm Saturday, Light Chanukah Candles after ...... 5:52pm December 27 Concert with Lazer Lloyd …………...... …… 6:00pm. December 31 Havdalah, Latkes, Refreshments, Film and Public Menorah Lighting at Chabad ………….………7:00pm Public Menorah Lighting …………...... ……7:00pm See insert for details

Be sure to check out our public Menorah displays at Sunland Park Mall, Cielo Vista Mall and The Outlet Shoppes at El Paso. ב''ה

Chabad Lubavitch Center for Jewish Life

TOGETHER WE WILL TRANSFORM THE LANDSCAPE OF JEWISH EL PASO FOREVER!

INDIVIDUAL | COMMUNITY | FAMILY By the Grace of G-d, for three decades a dream has been nurtured and realized in our town Uniting fellow Jews from a plethora of backgrounds and spanning all age groups, Chabad Lubavitch of El Paso has blossomed into a vibrant community With special emphasis on the individual we have evolved into family Your staunch support and friendship has helped us reach this momentous milestone We have a vision Building on the phenomenal success of the past we look forward to an even greater future To erect an edifice that you will be proud to call home A place to gather, discover, pray, laugh and celebrate our glorious heritage Together we will ensure the continued growth and expansion of our oasis community in Southwest Texas

DEDICATION OPPORTUNITIES

Sanctuary $770,000 Main Entrance Doors $20,000 Social Hall $500,000 Front Door Mezuza $18,000 Judaic Library $250,000 Foyer Furnishings $15,000 TREE of LIFE DEDICATIONS Aron Kodesh $200,000 Hand Washing Station $10,000 All dedications will be honored on a distinctive Front Lobby $150,000 Coat Room $10,000 Tribute Wall located at the building's main entrance. Children’s Outdoor Playground $150,000 5 Mezuzot (3 Reserved) $1,800 each KETER/CROWN AMUDIM/PILLARS Commercial Kosher Kitchen (Meat) $150,000 $250,000 $100,000 Living Legacy Program for Children $100,000 SYNAGOGUE FURNISHINGS Commercial Kosher Kitchen (Dairy) $75,000 Bima - Triple Platform $50,000 SHOMRIM/GUARDIANS NEDIVIM/BENEFACTORS $72,000 $54,000 Social Hall Furnishings $36,000 Yartzeit Memorial Board (Reserved) $50,000 Rabbi’s Conference room $36,000 Sanctuary Chairs (Reserved) $30,000 BONIM/BUILDERS CHAI/SUPPORTERS Outdoor Gardens $36,000 Mechitzah $25,000 $36,000 $18,000 Conference Room $30,000 Rabbi’s Lecturn $18,000 CHAVERIM/COLLEAGUES YEDIDIM/FRIENDS Mommy & Me Room $30,000 Siddur Book Case $18,000 $10,000 $3,600 Conference Room Furnishings $25,000 Silver Menorah $12,000

Security System $25,000 Chazzan’s Lectern (Reserved) $10,000 TOMCHIM/ADVOCATES $1,000 Audio Visual $25,000 Tallit Rack $5,400 Phone System (Reserved) $25,000

TO BE A PARTNER IN THIS HISTORIC PROJECT, PLEASE CONTACT RABBI YISRAEL GREENBERG, 915-584-8218 • Chabad@chabadelpaso com