Congregation Agudath Sholom | 301 Strawberry Hill Ave | Stamford, CT 06902 (203)-358-2200 www.agudathsholom.org

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Friday, January 6, 2017

Congregation Agudath Sholom Shabbat Bulletin

Congregation Agudath Sholom
Shabbat Bulletin
Vayigash
January 7, 2017
9 Tevet 5777
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Schedule
Friday
Candle lighting4:23 PM
Mincha4:28 PM
Shabbat
Shacharit7:00 AM
8:00 AM
9:00 AM
Shiur8:30 AM
Coffee & Commentary8:45 AM
Latest Shema9:40 AM
Latest Shacharit10:27 AM
Tot Shabbat
Mini Minyan
Jr. Cong
10:30 AM
Code Of Jewish Law3:30 PM
Daf Yomi3:50 PM
Mincha4:20 PM
Maariv5:19 PM
Shabbat Ends5:24 PM
Shabbat Shalom
Never Alone
One of the most memorable divrei Torah of my life was one I heard during my gap year in Israel in 1986. I loved the timeless message and the idea fit perfectly with the text.
In Parshat Vayigash, God senses Yaakov's fear as he travels to Egypt. He is leaving his homeland and, based on the prophecy to Avraham, knows that his family will be exiled for many years. Yaakov wonders whether God will be with him while in exile. God reassures Yaakov, "I am God, the God of your father; do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you a great nation there. I will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also surely bring you up again."
The Kli Yakar, Rabbi Ephraim Luntschitz (1550-1619), notices that on the way down to Egypt, God is the prime mover, "I will go down with you," but on the return to Israel, the Jewish people leave first followed by God. (The nuance is clearer in the Hebrew text itself)
Why the reversal? Why does God go into Egypt first, but leave Egypt last? Rabbi Luntschitz explains using the following illustration. Imagine two children going into a pool. One is an avid swimmer and the other is a novice. The inexperienced boy tells his friend that he will not go into the water until his friend jumps in first. However, on the way out, he tells his friend to wait until he leaves, so that he is never in the pool for one moment by himself. So too does God reassure Yaakov. You will never be alone. God goes first but leaves last, so we are never alone in exile.
The Kli Yakar crystallizes our belief that God walks with us all the time. When all is joyous in our lives, we rarely fully appreciate the blessings. Judaism trains us to pause, reflect and express gratitude through the mitzvoth. Yet, God forbid, in times of sadness, crisis and grief, we wonder about the presence of God. We cannot see God clearly. It is in these moments, whether for Yaakov or for us, that we must find the inner strength to realize that are never alone. In the words of King David in Psalm 23, "Although I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will not fear, for you, God, are with me."
May we experience much joy in the days ahead and recognize God's presence in our lives each and every day.
Wishing you and your families a Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Daniel Cohen
CAS in the News Thank you to Simeon Wohlberg for sharing this article and inviting Paula Shoyer to CAS. Great article about the power of warmth of people and communities in helping a person through grief. We wish Paula continued strength and comfort and thanks for the generous shout out to Agudath Sholom. May we share happy occasions together soon! https://goo.gl/WlHyDS
Service Notes
  • This Sunday is the Fast of the Tenth of Tevet. Sunday morning services will be 7 AM and 8:30 AM. the fast begins at 5:51 AM and ends at 5:18 PM. Mincha on Sunday is 4:20 PM
  • Thank you to all those who came to our inaugural Sephardic Minyan at CAS on December 10th! We are excited to announce the next dates for the Sephardic Minyan, the ONLY Sephardic Minyan in all of Fairfield County. Please join us as we gather AGAIN on January 14 and February 11th! If you would like to volunteer to be hazan or read even one aliyah click on the following link: https://goo.gl/zrptD4. Questions? Send us an email at SephardicMinyanCAS@gmail.com
CAS SHABBAT ATRIA MITZVAH MISSION CONTINUES Spreading joy and building community. Our goal: enrich the seniors' experience through friendship, song and joy. Join Rabbi Cohen and Kate & Peretz Cik on Friday, January 20th at 2:30 PM to share the spirit of Shabbat. Adults & kids welcome. Info: Rabbi Cohen at rabbicohen@cas-stamford.org.
INSPIRICA UPDATE - MITZVAH OPPORTUNITY We are excited about our first ever initiative with Inspirica this coming week. We will serve food as part of their ECCP Meal Program for Parents and Children. Thank you to our mission chairs: Ari and Andrea Lefkovits who have generously donated the food. Volunteers needed to help cook - Sunday, January 8, 7:30 PM at CAS and serve - Wednesday, January 11, at 6:30 PM at Inspirica, 141 Franklin Street. To learn more about Inspirica and ways to help, contact Lauren Dubitsky ldubinsky@inspiricact.org at Inspirica or visit www.inspiricact.org. Share this opportunity with others! Contact Ari or Andrea (ari_lefkovits@yahoo.com, ahlefkovits@gmail.com) to confirm your participation on Sunday, Wednesday or both.
This Week in Jewish History Join the hundreds who have viewed Rabbi Zweiter's new series Just click here to view the new YouTube Channel
Kosher Alerts The OU reminds you to always check the label before purchasing any item that needs kosher certification! And for the latest corrective actions, stay up with the latest OU KOSHER CONSUMER ALERTS & ADVISORIES...just click here
Kosher Advisory Breaking news from the OU - newly certified items! to check out the list click here
LIPS product of the week Check out our new Love Israel Products Blog (LIPS) for the latest ways to support Israel! Thank you to Lola Halperin and Aaron Goldenberg for organizing. www.loveisraelproducts.com
Shabbat Topics & Participants
Coffee & CommentaryRabbi Daniel Cohen
SermonRabbi Daniel Cohen
Shiur (8:30 am)Rabbi Elisha Paul: Kriyas Shema and the Avos
Daf YomiMark Wagshul
Seudah ShlishitRabbi Oran Zweiter: The Fast of the 8th of Tevet?
Torah ReadersIsaac Malkin, Burt Rubin, Ethan Green
Weekday Schedule
ShacharitShacharit: Sunday 7:00 AM/8:30 AM, Monday-Friday 6:30 AM/7:30 AM
MinchaMincha: Sunday 4:20 PM, Monday-Friday 4:35 PM
Late MaarivMonday-Thursday: The Learning Center, 1766 Bedford Street, 8:45 PM
Candles Friday4:30 PM
SundayAsara B'Tevet - fast begins at 5:51 AM, ends at 5:18 PM
Mazal Tov
  • to Karen & Jonathan Malkin on Isaac's Bar Mitzvah
  • to Liba & Steven Steinmetz on the birth of a granddaughter, born to Shoshana & Aaron Rosenzweig in Israel
  • to Rabbi Daniel and Diane Cohen who will be honored as "Parents of the Year" at the Maayanot Yeshiva High School annual dinner.
  • to Erica Arbron on assuming the position of President of UJF of Stamford, New Canaan, and Darien. We wish her much success!
  • to our members Jessica Furmansky, Howland Gordon and Rachel Kaimowitz who were selected to participate in the 2017 Behrend Leadership Institute.
  • to Judy & Bob Raymond on the birth of a granddaughter, Liberty Isabel, born to Sam & Shari Raymond
Celebrate with the family! Make a donation in their honor and we will send an acknowledgement to the family. Just click here.
Thanks To Our Sponsors
Library KiddushArthur Smith In memory of his parents, Miriam (bas Yehoshua) and Archie (Yitzchak ben Tzvi Halevi) Smith.
Chapel KiddushKayla Shoshana in honor of her sister Ariella Chanas milestone birthday
Sanctuary KiddushKaren & Jonathan Malkin in honor of Isaac's Bar Mitzvah
Sponsor A Kiddush
Shabbat date Sanctuary Kiddush Chapel Kiddush
1/14/17opensponsored
1/21/17openopen
1/28/17opensponsored
2/4/17openopen
2/11/17opensponsored
Sponsor a kiddush! click here to see the menus.
Click here to email Matt and he will contact you mfeinberg@cas-stamford.org or see Irwin to arrange a Chapel Kiddush.
Sisterhood
SYLVIA'S CAS SISTERHOOD GIFT SHOP
We need volunteers! Please call Julie at (203)-321-6460 or Anne at (203)-321-5072
Special Meeting
Special Membership Meeting Congregation Agudath Sholom
Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at 7:30pm
Purpose of this meeting:
Vote on Sale of 4.5 acres adjoining the synagogue, consisting of the former Hebrew School Building and the adjacent "ball field" property. No other business can be conducted at this meeting (per the CAS By-Laws)
Please note the following important procedural points:
  • Only Members In Good Standing Can Attend and Vote at the January 10 Special Membership Meeting. Under the CAS By-Laws, Article XVI, Section 3, only Members In Good Standing are entitled to attend and vote at Membership Meetings. To be considered a Member in Good Standing, you must be current on all dues and fees as of December 31, 2016. If you have questions about your CAS account, please contact Matt Feinberg, Director of Operations, mfeinberg@cas-stamford.org or (203) 358-2200.
  • Members In Good Standing Can Vote By Proxy.If you cannot attend the January 10 meeting, click here for a proxy ballot. You can print the ballot, complete it with signature, snap a picture, and email it to mfeinberg@cas-stamford.org.
Thank you to Dean Schuckman, chair of the Land Sale committee, Matt Feinberg, and the members of that committee for their many hours of work and effort on this important project.
We encourage all members to participate in this important decision for the Congregation.
CAS Annual Dinner
We are pleased to announce the honorees of the CAS Annual Festive Dinner
March 19, 2017 - 21 Adar 5777:
Celebrating Our Community
The generous of heart will prosper and those who refresh others will be refreshed.
-Proverbs 11:25
Guests of Honor
Sandi & Stuart Waldstreicher
Community Service Award
Dean Schuckman
Young Leadership Award
Daniella & Mitchel Balsam
Chai Award
Barbara & Larry ZL Miller
With a special farewell presentation to Rabbi Walk in gratitude for his years of service at CAS

Dinner Chairs
Darona Bernstein & Liba Steinmetz
Journal Chairs
Jeffrey Maron & Rhonda Schaffer-Maron and Diane & Elliot Sloyer
Our chairs welcome members who would like to join the Dinner or Journal Committees! Please contact Matt at mfeinberg@cas-stamford.org to indicate your interest!
Sign Up For These Events
Click on one of these upcoming events!
CAMERA - Media Manipulation: The Bias Against Israel Dessert & Discusssion
CAS and CAMERA (Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting in America) present Saritz Catz, International Letter-Writing Director for CAMERA giving a presentation on Media Manipulation: The Bias Against Israel. Dessert and Discussion.
We hope to provide transportation to members unable to drive at night. To do this, we need volunteers as well. Please help your neighbor, friend and fellow congregant to participate in this exciting and important presentation. Let CAS be known as the congregation that cares. If you are interested in attending and/or driving, please call the office at 203-358-2200 as soon as possible.
AIPAC Shabbaton
Shabbat, January 21
AIPAC Shabbaton
Ed Miller, AIPAC National Deputy Political Director, will speak on Shabbat after services and during Seudat Shlishit
Information Meeting for Journey of Body & Soul To Israel
Thinking of a trip to Israel? There is no better time to plan a trip than now! Join Rabbi Daniel and Diane Cohen for a Journey of Body and Soul to the Four Holy Cities of Israel. Revised Dates - Leave Monday night, October 30th, 2017 and return Thursday morning November 9th. Join us for an orientation and information session to learn more about the trip on Monday evening, January 23rd from 7:30 PM
Scholar-In-Residence:  Rabbi Benjamin Samuels
Friday Night: The Whole Truth: Can We Handle It? Rabbi Samuels will speak at an oneg hosted by Rabbi Daniel and Diane Cohen at their home at 8 PM.
Shabbat Morning: Halakhah v'Agggadah: The Jewish Story of the Laws of Life
Seudah Shlishit Shiur: The One and the Many: Is there an Essence to Judaism?
CAS Young Families Potluck Shabbat Lunch and Oneg
We are looking for families and couples to host the potluck and provide the main dish, drinks, and challah, and then guests will fill in with side dishes and desserts. Following lunch there will be an oneg at the shul. Join us for this great way to get to know people in the CAS community!
CAS Annual Festive Dinner
Sunday, March 19 - 5:00 PM
CAS Annual Festive Dinner
Please join us on March 19 as we celebrate our community by honoring a great group of individuals who have done so much for CAS...
CAS Youth Teen Minyan Kiddush Fund
Sponsor a teen minyan kiddush
Parents! Help us provide kiddush at all our teen minyans this year!
CAS Young Families
Toddler Time Playgroup Tuesdays, 3:30 pm. Please join us for an hour of free play for children 1 to 4 years old and their caregivers. Facilitated by two moms of toddlers, this drop-in group meets weekly at CAS in the downstairs children's classroom. No cost, a light snack provided. Info: Rachel Kaimowitz rachelshields@gmail.com or Jessica Furmansky JessicaL83@gmail.com

Babies & Breakfast at CAS Bring your baby and come mingle with other moms at CAS. This free group is for moms with babies from birth through 1 to socialize, grab some food, or at the very least, get out of the house! We meet every other Thursday at 11:30 for 1 hour. Next date: January 17. Info: Melissa Litwak (melissalevy@gmail.com) or Rachel Kaimowitz (rachelshields@gmail.com).
CAS Spring Classes
New Adult Education Classes Announcements - Winter Season
Most of the Fall Semester classes will continue. You can join them each week. Rabbi Cohen will restart his Tuesday Torah classes on Isaiah, Depth of Genesis and Parsha Perspectives as and his Friday morning Taste of Torah. Rabbi Walk will continue his Sunday class Bible in the Beginning, Monday Inyana DeYoma, Tuesday Kabalah class, and Thursday Talmud class.
Rabbi Zweiter will offer these new classes:
Weekly Haftarah - Wednesday, 9 AM
  • The weekly haftarah is one of the most frequently recited parts of our liturgy, and yet also one of the most overlooked. Come study the meaning of the weekly haftarah, its connection to the weekly parsha, and gain a deeper appreciation of this sometimes 'lost' piece of liturgy. All texts will be in Hebrew and English.
Rambam Reboot: Maimonides' Principles of the Jewish Faith- Thursday, 9 AM
  • Many of us have heard of the 13 Principles of Faith, but where does that come from? Come study these fundamental texts from their source- the writings of Maimonides. We will try to understand exactly what Maimonides thinks we should believe, as well as positions of those that differed with him. Enrich your understanding of the fundamentals of your faith in just one hour a week! All texts will be in Hebrew and English.
Practical Workshop: How to Start a Jewish Home
  • This 4 part series will explain the basics of starting and maintaining a Jewish home, in a friendly, hands-on fashion. Appropriate for people who are first starting out, as well as those who just want a refresher. All questions and questioners welcome! Dates - Monday evenings at 7:45 PM Jan. 23, 30, Feb 6, 13
  1. Mezuzah
  2. Making a Kitchen Kosher/Tevilat Kelim
  3. Maintaining a Kosher Kitchen
  4. The Kitchen on Shabbat
We are starting an advanced Talmud class one night a week. For those interested, please see Rabbi Zweiter, or email rabbizweiter@cas-stamford.org
CAS Classes
Week of January 8
SundayRabbi David Walk: Bible from the Beginning - 9:15 AM
MondayBob Abrams: Tanach - The Book of Samuel - 10:15 AM
Rabbi David Walk: Dvar Yom B'Yomo. - 11:30 AM
TuesdayRabbi Daniel Cohen: Parsha Perspectives - 12:00 PM
WednesdayRabbi Oran Zweiter: Weekly Haftorah - 9:00 AM
ThursdayRabbi Daniel Cohen: Power of the Prophets - 8:15 AM
Rabbi Oran Zweiter: Rambam Reboot - 13 Principles - 9:00 AM
Rabbi David Walk: Talmud Taanit - 7:30 PM
FridayRabbi Daniel Cohen: The Pre-Shabbos Torah Taste - 8:15 AM
CAS Announcements
  • JOIN US FOR AN ISRAEL ADVOCACY MEETING on Thursday night, Jan. 12, 7:30 PM to learn about plans for 2017 and get involved! For more info, contact Ben Lanson ben.lanson@gmail.com or Rabbi Cohen.
  • ANNUAL YAKAR SHABBAT FEBRUARY 11 a Shabbat of ruach, unity and interactive Torah. Friday night Carlebach light davening led by Chazan Bokow. Shabbat morning four minyanim at 7 AM, 8:00 AM and 8:45 AM (Ashkenaz and Sephardic). Joint Hot Kiddush at 10:00 AM. 10:30 AM Breakout Learning Sessions on The Jewish Family, featuring Yona Goldman- My Big Complicated Biblical Family, Rabbi Alex Ozar- What is Love?, Talia Siscovick- Lessons from the Giving Tree: How to Foster Healthy Family Relationships and Rabbi Elisha Paul- Responding to Contemporary Challenges to Creating and Sustaining a Traditional Jewish Family Musaf at 11:15 AM.
  • CAS FREE MEZUZAH CAMPAIGN IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CT Bringing Blessings to Jewish Homes. Do you know a neighbor or a friend who lacks a mezuzah? CAS offers a free mezuzah and home visit to post this sacred scroll at the entrance to all Jewish homes in the area. For more info, contact Rabbi Cohen: rabbicohen@cas-stamford.org
  • JOIN THE CHEVRA KADISHA We need new volunteers for the Chevra - those willing to perform a tahara. Info: Please contact Rochel Attar at fiveximah@gmail.com
  • IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING We need you to help secure our Synagogue. As you come to the building, please be aware of your surroundings. If you see something out of the ordinary, please let someone know about it. This will keep everyone safe.
  • WELCOME TO OUR SYNAGOGUE PROGRAM Every Shabbat we station ushers at the doors in the sanctuary to welcome people, assist them and enhance the service. We are expanding the usher roles to include a greeter in the lobby from 9-10:30 am. Please join the usher team. We need you and your smile. Info: Mitchell Bell.
  • COMMUNITY CHESED HELPERS An important role of the Chesed committee is outreach to the Shul's elderly and homebound, who are often isolated and lack a lifeline to our synagogue. Volunteer to reach out and identify needs, visit, or give a ride. Even small gestures mean a great deal Interested? Vivian Weiss at 203-323-0909 or vivianweiss@gmail.com. If you are aware of elderly or homebound members in need of outreach, please notify Rabbi Cohen.
  • WE WANT YOU FOR BINGO! Players AND volunteers needed. Join in on the fun we have every MONDAY at 6:00 PM
Community Announcements
  • MINDFULNESS: A GIFT FOR THE SOUL - WITHIN THE MODERN ERA OF DEVICE OBSESSION AND SOCIAL MEDIA FRENZY LIES A DAILY LIFELINE TOWARD BALANCE. One of the most pressing issues in Jewish Day Schools across the country is prayer. Prayer and regular meditation have been proven to be a valuable lifelong skill. Prayer, meditation, and mindfulness allow children (and adults!) to be emotionally balanced, grounded, and focused on building a deeper relationship with G-d. We are excited to have such a unique opportunity to have Scott Goldberg, PhD, highly regarded and accomplished educator, teach us how to use this powerful tool. We hope you will take advantage and join us for a night of special learning, food, and community building. Thursday, January 12, 6:30-8:30pm, Dinner will be served. Hosted by Bi-Cultural Day School. RSVP required - Email: yjeiger@bcds.org. $20 per person; Free of charge for Bi-Cultural families.
  • BI-CULTURAL DAY SCHOOL FAMILY TRIP TO ISRAEL is scheduled to leave April 30 and return May 11, 2017. Let's celebrate Yom Ha'Atzmaut together in Israel!! For more information about this very special trip, please contact Bob Abrams at babrams@bcds.org or 203-329-2186.
  • JCC MEMBERSHIP OPEN HOUSE Sunday, January 8 * 10 am - 2 pm, Monday, January 9 * 5 - 7 pm. Take a tour and receive a complimentary 3-day guest pass to use our fitness center, swimming pool and all group fitness classes. Hear about our nursery school, child-care and after-school programs from our staff. Join at the Open House and save 50% on your first 3 months of membership! For more information visit www.stamfordjcc.org or contact Ilene Madwed at imadwed@stamfordjcc.org or 203.487.0945
  • 3000 YEARS IN THE GALILEE: NEW DISCOVERIES IN THE ANCIENT SYNAGOGUE OF HUQOQ Professor Jodi Magness, leader since 2011 of ongoing excavations in the Jewish village of Huqoq, will discuss the dig and present slides of recent discoveries on Tuesday, January 10 at 7:45 p.m. at the Young Israel of New Rochelle,1149 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY. Among the excavation's major finds is a monumental fifth century synagogue paved with elaborate mosaics, including depictions of the biblical hero Samson as well as the first non-biblical narrative scene ever found decorating an ancient synagogue. Dr. Magness, a professor in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and head of a consortium of universities working in the site, is author of 10 books and dozens of journal articles. For additional information on Dr. Magness and her work, please see jodimagness.org. This lecture, which is free and open to women and men, is part of a continuing series at YINR sponsored by the Women's Initiative for Jewish Studies. For further information or to be added to the mailing list, please email wijs@yinr.org
  • ISRAELI FILM SERIES: GETT: THE TRIAL OF VIVIANE AMSALEM (DRAMA) Thursday, January 12 * 7 pm. In this powerhouse drama, an Israeli woman seeking to finalize a divorce from her estranged husband finds herself effectively put on trial by her country's religious marriage laws. Suggested donation $5, open to the community. To register or for more information, contact Yael Stolarsky, JCC Israeli Shlicha, at 203-487-0951 or ystolarsky@stamfordjcc.org.
  • JEWISH SENIOR SERVICES NEEDS MINYAN MENSCHEN!! JSS is in great need of men to attend and help make our daily Minyan (prayer quorum of ten) in order to help Residents say the Kaddish 365 days of the year. Our Minyan hours will not overlap with most synagogues Minyans. Please feel free to contact Rabbi Stephen Shulman, Director, Pastoral Services at (203) 396-1001 or email sshulman@jseniors.org for exact service times.
  • SAVE THE DATE! Sunday, March 5, 2017, 5PM, at Congregation Agudath Sholom. Annual Stamford Chevra Kadisha Dinner, featuring Dr. Erica Brown as guest speaker. Honoree: Michael Feldstein. Fabulous catered meal by 613 Restaurant with some very special delectable treats and culinary surprises. Only $36/person. Sponsorship is $180 (entitles you to two reservations). Invitations will be in the mail in January. For more information or to make a reservation, please contact Rica Lieberman at ricalieberman@yahoo.com
  • SUPPER AND SONG DANCE PARTY WITH ANDY BAUM Wednesday, January 18 * 5:30 - 6:30 pm. 1 - 5 years old, with parent or caregiver. Wear your dancing shoes, bring your friends and enjoy a JCC FamilyPlace "sing along, sup along" evening, featuring guest entertainer Andy Baum. Pizza served to children and adults. Member $9 / Community $12 if registered before January 11. Member $11 / Community $14 beginning January 11. For more information, contact Allison Murphy at 203.487.0980, amurphy@stamfordjcc.org or visit www.stamfordjcc.org
  • THE CENTER WOMEN OF THE J PRESENT 100 YEARS: 100 SONGS Saturday, January 21, 7:30 pm & Sunday, January 22, 11 am and 3 pm. This original musical review celebrates our JCC's centennial with snippets of 100 songs that reflect the Center's amazing history. Many of the Broadway show tunes are ones you know and love, so come ready to tap your feet, sing along and have a great time! A perfect outing for the entire family! Reservations required. Playbill ads available for purchase. For more information contact Nancy Schiffman at 203-487-0941 or nschiffman@stamfordjcc.org or visit www.stamfordjcc.org to reserve tickets and purchase playbill ads.
  • BRUNCH AND LEARN SERIES: MINORITIES IN ISRAEL: HAREDIM-ULTRA ORTHODOX JEWS Sunday, January 29 * 10 - 11:30 am In the world of Jewish observance and identification, it is Haredi Jews that are perhaps the most visually identifiable, yet they make up only 8% of the Jews in Israel. How do Haredim fit into Israeli society? Suggested donation $5, open to the community. To register or for more information, contact Yael Stolarsky, JCC Israeli Shlicha, at 203-487-0951 or ystolarsky@stamfordjcc.org.
  • O-LA-MI FAMILY GAME SHOW Sunday, January 29 * 5 - 7 pm. Celebrate summer with your friends at our annual O-la-mi Reunion and fundraiser! Reconnect with O-la-mi friends and counselors, and meet new participants and their families. Pizza, games, raffle and O-la-mi fun! All are welcome. $36 per family of 4 ($5 each additional participant). Please pre-register by January 25 so the O-la-mi staff can plan accordingly. All proceeds from this event will be donated to O-la-mi's "Make a Change Campaign," which helps support scholarships for children in need. For more information contact Brandon Yarborough at 203.487.0970, byarborough@stamfordjcc.org or visit www.stamfordjcc.org
  • PRETTY IN PINK: JCC MATZAH BALL ANNUAL FATHER-DAUGHTER DANCE Saturday, February 25 * 6:30 - 8 pm. 5-10 years. Join us for the Matzah Ball, The J's annual father-daughter dance. Dance the night away and play fun games. Dress up for the event of the year. Truly a night to remember! Light refreshments and dessert will be served. Member $36 per "couple," $5 per additional child. Community $45 per "couple," $5 per additional child. For more information contact Galit Roloff at 203-487-0974, groloff@stamfordjcc.org or visit www.stamfordjcc.org.
  • ISRAELI FILM SERIES: ATOMIC FALAFEL (COMEDY) Thursday, February 9 * 7 pm . Two girls from nuclear towns in Israel and Iran spill their countries' most valuable secrets on Facebook while trying to prevent a nuclear crisis. Suggested donation $5, open to the community. To register or for more information, contact Yael Stolarsky, JCC Israeli Shlicha, at 203-487-0951 or ystolarsky@stamfordjcc.org.
  • DO A MITZVAH! CONSIDER SUPPORTING THE JFS KOSHER FOOD PANTRY by purchasing Mitzvah Baskets and/or Mitzvah Centerpieces instead of flowers for your next simcha at CAS. Distributions from the JFS Kosher Food Pantry have increased by more than 1000 since the recession. With this tremendous upsurge in use, JFS is constantly challenged to keep the food pantry full. Your generosity enables JFS to help those in our community in their greatest moments of need.
  • SCHOKE JFS LIFE TRANSITIONS, BEGINNING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14TH AT 4 PM Support group, meeting weekly, for unemployed facing the emotional challenges of finding employment at the Stamford Schoke JFS office, 733 Summer Street, 6th Floor. Contact Anne Birchenough at 203-921-4161 or abirchenough@ctjfs.org.
  • SCHOKE JFS COLLEGE AHEAD! Thursday, December 1st at 7:30 pm Deans of Admissions of prominent colleges will form a panel of experts to share information about the college admissions, academics, Jewish life on campus, residential options and other topics of interest. Claire Friedlander, Schoke JFS College Consultant, will moderate the discussion at the Federation of Jewish Philanthropy office at 4200 Park Avenue, Bridgeport. Open to the community at no cost and registration is not required. Contact Claire Friedlander at 203-921-4161 or email clairef@ctjfs.org for more information.
  • LET'S TALK - Thursdays, 11 :00 am Free at the Stamford JCC, 1035 Newfield Avenue. Seniors talk about common interests and concerns, facilitated by a Schoke Jewish Family Service counselor. Contact Anne Birchenough at 203-921-4161 or abirchenough@ctjfs.org.
  • LET'S TALK - Thursdays, 1:00 pm Free at the Westport Senior Center, 21 Imperial Avenue, Westport. Seniors talk about common interests and concerns, facilitated by a Schoke Jewish Family Service counselor. Contact Anne Birchenough at 203-921-4161 or abirchenough@ctjfs.org.
  • SCHOKE JFS FINANCIAL FITNESS on Thursdays, January 12th; February 9th; March 9th at 7PM at the Jewish Senior Services Campus, 4200 Park Avenue, Bridgeport. In partnership with FJP and Schoke Jewish Family Service, a financial educator from LifeBridge will teach three seminars about Budgeting, Understanding Your Credit and Identity Theft. The seminars are free. To reserve a spot, contact Rebekah Kanefsky at 203-921-4161 or rkanefsky@ctjfs.org.
  • LET'S TALK - Fairfield, starting in February 2017 at 12:45 pm at the Bigelow Center for Senior Activities, 100 Mona Terrace, Fairfield. Seniors talk about common interests and concerns, facilitated by a Schoke Jewish Family Service counselor. Contact Rebekah Kanefsky at 203-921-4161 or rkanefsky@ctjfs.org
  • SNAP ENROLLMENT WORKSHOPS For adults and seniors, Schoke JFS will be providing information and eligibility assistance for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP-formerly food stamps). The second Wednesday of every month at 2:30 pm in the Stamford office (733 Summer Street,6th Floor), SNAP Enrollment Workshops will be presented monthly. For additional information or to register, please contact Rebekah Kanefsky, Schoke JFS Case Manager at 203-921-4161 or email rkanefsky@ctjfs.org.
  • SNAP ENROLLMENT WORKSHOPS For adults and seniors, Schoke JFS will be providing information and eligibility assistance for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP-formerly food stamps). The second Tuesday of every month at 11:00 am in the Westport office (431 Post Road East), SNAP Enrollment Workshops will be presented monthly. For additional information or to register, please contact Rebekah Kanefsky, Schoke JFS Case Manager at 203-921-4161 or email rkanefsky@ctjfs.org.
  • JEWISH SENIOR SERVICES HOSPICE VOLUNTEER TRAINING: The goal is to have trained Hospice volunteers in clusters all over Fairfield County so that when the need presents itself, volunteers do not have to travel far. Chaifetz Family Hospice will be holding a two day Hospice Volunteer Training Program for anyone interested in giving their time and compassion to terminally ill patients and their loved ones. Training will be held at Jewish Senior Services, 4200 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT on Sunday, February 5th and Sunday, February 12th from 9:00am-4:30pm. Training materials and meals will be provided free of charge. If you would like to sign up or to learn more about hospice training, please contact Ellen Ashkins at (203) 365-6417 or by email at eashkins@jseniors.org.
We Wish A Speedy Recovery To
  • Aharon ben Yehudit
  • Alexander ben Ida
  • Basher Rachal bat Hannah
  • Benjamin Rufuel ben Basher Rachal
  • Dov ben Pnina
  • Freidel bat Sarah
  • Gedalya Yitzchak ben Tzivia Rivka.
  • Golda bat Basha
  • Moshe Elya ben Chana
  • Refael Ephraim ben Sima
  • Ruth Leah bat Zahava
  • Shoshana bat Mazal
  • Yaakov ben Selma
  • Yitzchak Asher ben Chana Shayva Chaya
  • Zacharia Aharon ben Aviva
  • Zev Mordechai ben Chaya Gittel
CAS Youth
Calendar:
January, 2017- Theme of the Month: Empathy
  • Tot Shabbat and Mini Minyan-Discussion: What does Empathy mean? Give some examples (ongoing for the month)
  • Jr. Cong. special guest leader- Rabbi Tzvi Bernstein
  • BMC meeting with Ari Leiberman,regular attendees save up your cards for a FREE Soosh trip in Feb.!
  • Tot Shabbat and Mini Minyan-Practice role playing as appropriate.
  • Jr. Cong.- Discussion: What is the difference between Sympathy and Empathy?
  • Jr. Cong. Special HOT Kiddush and nekudot sale- bring all your tickets for great prizes!
  • BMC meeting with Morah Elana Trombka, regular attendees save up your cards for a FREE Sooh trip in Feb.!
  • BMC lunch at the home of Rica and Ari Lieberman.. please RSVP and let us know if you can join!
  • Teen Minyan
  • Jr. Cong. special guest leader
  • Teen Minyan

Upcoming Teen Minyan Dates:

  • Jan 21,28
    Feb, 4, 18, 25
    March 11, 18, 25
    April 8, 29
    May 6
    June 3, 10, 17
If you would like to celebrate your child's birthday or special accomplishment by sponsoring a special "kiddush" or a Mishna and Hot Cocoa in their honor, please email me atrabbijeiger@hotmail.com
If you would like to help support the Youth Department, please visithttp://youth.cas-stamford.org/givingfor all of our sponsorship opportunities.
Shabbat Shalom! Rabbi Yehuda Jeiger

Congregation Agudath Sholom | 301 Strawberry Hill Avenue | Stamford, CT 06902
203-358-2200 www.cas-stamford.org

Congregation Agudath Sholom, 301 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Stamford, CT 06902
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Congregation Agudath Sholom Shabbat Bulletin

Congregation Agudath Sholom
Shabbat Bulletin
Vayigash
January 7, 2017
9 Tevet 5777
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Schedule
Friday
Candle lighting4:23 PM
Mincha4:28 PM
Shabbat
Shacharit7:00 AM
8:00 AM
9:00 AM
Shiur8:30 AM
Coffee & Commentary8:45 AM
Latest Shema9:40 AM
Latest Shacharit10:27 AM
Tot Shabbat
Mini Minyan
Jr. Cong
10:30 AM
Code Of Jewish Law3:30 PM
Daf Yomi3:50 PM
Mincha4:20 PM
Maariv5:19 PM
Shabbat Ends5:24 PM
Shabbat Shalom
Never Alone
One of the most memorable divrei Torah of my life was one I heard during my gap year in Israel in 1986. I loved the timeless message and the idea fit perfectly with the text.
In Parshat Vayigash, God senses Yaakov's fear as he travels to Egypt. He is leaving his homeland and, based on the prophecy to Avraham, knows that his family will be exiled for many years. Yaakov wonders whether God will be with him while in exile. God reassures Yaakov, "I am God, the God of your father; do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you a great nation there. I will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also surely bring you up again."
The Kli Yakar, Rabbi Ephraim Luntschitz (1550-1619), notices that on the way down to Egypt, God is the prime mover, "I will go down with you," but on the return to Israel, the Jewish people leave first followed by God. (The nuance is clearer in the Hebrew text itself)
Why the reversal? Why does God go into Egypt first, but leave Egypt last? Rabbi Luntschitz explains using the following illustration. Imagine two children going into a pool. One is an avid swimmer and the other is a novice. The inexperienced boy tells his friend that he will not go into the water until his friend jumps in first. However, on the way out, he tells his friend to wait until he leaves, so that he is never in the pool for one moment by himself. So too does God reassure Yaakov. You will never be alone. God goes first but leaves last, so we are never alone in exile.
The Kli Yakar crystallizes our belief that God walks with us all the time. When all is joyous in our lives, we rarely fully appreciate the blessings. Judaism trains us to pause, reflect and express gratitude through the mitzvoth. Yet, God forbid, in times of sadness, crisis and grief, we wonder about the presence of God. We cannot see God clearly. It is in these moments, whether for Yaakov or for us, that we must find the inner strength to realize that are never alone. In the words of King David in Psalm 23, "Although I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will not fear, for you, God, are with me."
May we experience much joy in the days ahead and recognize God's presence in our lives each and every day.
Wishing you and your families a Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Daniel Cohen
CAS in the News Thank you to Simeon Wohlberg for sharing this article and inviting Paula Shoyer to CAS. Great article about the power of warmth of people and communities in helping a person through grief. We wish Paula continued strength and comfort and thanks for the generous shout out to Agudath Sholom. May we share happy occasions together soon! https://goo.gl/WlHyDS
Service Notes
  • This Sunday is the Fast of the Tenth of Tevet. Sunday morning services will be 7 AM and 8:30 AM. the fast begins at 5:51 AM and ends at 5:18 PM. Mincha on Sunday is 4:20 PM
  • Thank you to all those who came to our inaugural Sephardic Minyan at CAS on December 10th! We are excited to announce the next dates for the Sephardic Minyan, the ONLY Sephardic Minyan in all of Fairfield County. Please join us as we gather AGAIN on January 14 and February 11th! If you would like to volunteer to be hazan or read even one aliyah click on the following link: https://goo.gl/zrptD4. Questions? Send us an email at SephardicMinyanCAS@gmail.com
CAS SHABBAT ATRIA MITZVAH MISSION CONTINUES Spreading joy and building community. Our goal: enrich the seniors' experience through friendship, song and joy. Join Rabbi Cohen and Kate & Peretz Cik on Friday, January 20th at 2:30 PM to share the spirit of Shabbat. Adults & kids welcome. Info: Rabbi Cohen at rabbicohen@cas-stamford.org.
INSPIRICA UPDATE - MITZVAH OPPORTUNITY We are excited about our first ever initiative with Inspirica this coming week. We will serve food as part of their ECCP Meal Program for Parents and Children. Thank you to our mission chairs: Ari and Andrea Lefkovits who have generously donated the food. Volunteers needed to help cook - Sunday, January 8, 7:30 PM at CAS and serve - Wednesday, January 11, at 6:30 PM at Inspirica, 141 Franklin Street. To learn more about Inspirica and ways to help, contact Lauren Dubitsky ldubinsky@inspiricact.org at Inspirica or visit www.inspiricact.org. Share this opportunity with others! Contact Ari or Andrea (ari_lefkovits@yahoo.com, ahlefkovits@gmail.com) to confirm your participation on Sunday, Wednesday or both.
This Week in Jewish History Join the hundreds who have viewed Rabbi Zweiter's new series Just click here to view the new YouTube Channel
Kosher Alerts The OU reminds you to always check the label before purchasing any item that needs kosher certification! And for the latest corrective actions, stay up with the latest OU KOSHER CONSUMER ALERTS & ADVISORIES...just click here
Kosher Advisory Breaking news from the OU - newly certified items! to check out the list click here
LIPS product of the week Check out our new Love Israel Products Blog (LIPS) for the latest ways to support Israel! Thank you to Lola Halperin and Aaron Goldenberg for organizing. www.loveisraelproducts.com
Shabbat Topics & Participants
Coffee & CommentaryRabbi Daniel Cohen
SermonRabbi Daniel Cohen
Shiur (8:30 am)Rabbi Elisha Paul: Kriyas Shema and the Avos
Daf YomiMark Wagshul
Seudah ShlishitRabbi Oran Zweiter: The Fast of the 8th of Tevet?
Torah ReadersIsaac Malkin, Burt Rubin, Ethan Green
Weekday Schedule
ShacharitShacharit: Sunday 7:00 AM/8:30 AM, Monday-Friday 6:30 AM/7:30 AM
MinchaMincha: Sunday 4:20 PM, Monday-Friday 4:35 PM
Late MaarivMonday-Thursday: The Learning Center, 1766 Bedford Street, 8:45 PM
Candles Friday4:30 PM
SundayAsara B'Tevet - fast begins at 5:51 AM, ends at 5:18 PM
Mazal Tov
  • to Karen & Jonathan Malkin on Isaac's Bar Mitzvah
  • to Liba & Steven Steinmetz on the birth of a granddaughter, born to Shoshana & Aaron Rosenzweig in Israel
  • to Rabbi Daniel and Diane Cohen who will be honored as "Parents of the Year" at the Maayanot Yeshiva High School annual dinner.
  • to Erica Arbron on assuming the position of President of UJF of Stamford, New Canaan, and Darien. We wish her much success!
  • to our members Jessica Furmansky, Howland Gordon and Rachel Kaimowitz who were selected to participate in the 2017 Behrend Leadership Institute.
  • to Judy & Bob Raymond on the birth of a granddaughter, Liberty Isabel, born to Sam & Shari Raymond
Celebrate with the family! Make a donation in their honor and we will send an acknowledgement to the family. Just click here.
Thanks To Our Sponsors
Library KiddushArthur Smith In memory of his parents, Miriam (bas Yehoshua) and Archie (Yitzchak ben Tzvi Halevi) Smith.
Chapel KiddushKayla Shoshana in honor of her sister Ariella Chanas milestone birthday
Sanctuary KiddushKaren & Jonathan Malkin in honor of Isaac's Bar Mitzvah
Sponsor A Kiddush
Shabbat date Sanctuary Kiddush Chapel Kiddush
1/14/17opensponsored
1/21/17openopen
1/28/17opensponsored
2/4/17openopen
2/11/17opensponsored
Sponsor a kiddush! click here to see the menus.
Click here to email Matt and he will contact you mfeinberg@cas-stamford.org or see Irwin to arrange a Chapel Kiddush.
Sisterhood
SYLVIA'S CAS SISTERHOOD GIFT SHOP
We need volunteers! Please call Julie at (203)-321-6460 or Anne at (203)-321-5072
Special Meeting
Special Membership Meeting Congregation Agudath Sholom
Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at 7:30pm
Purpose of this meeting:
Vote on Sale of 4.5 acres adjoining the synagogue, consisting of the former Hebrew School Building and the adjacent "ball field" property. No other business can be conducted at this meeting (per the CAS By-Laws)
Please note the following important procedural points:
  • Only Members In Good Standing Can Attend and Vote at the January 10 Special Membership Meeting. Under the CAS By-Laws, Article XVI, Section 3, only Members In Good Standing are entitled to attend and vote at Membership Meetings. To be considered a Member in Good Standing, you must be current on all dues and fees as of December 31, 2016. If you have questions about your CAS account, please contact Matt Feinberg, Director of Operations, mfeinberg@cas-stamford.org or (203) 358-2200.
  • Members In Good Standing Can Vote By Proxy.If you cannot attend the January 10 meeting, click here for a proxy ballot. You can print the ballot, complete it with signature, snap a picture, and email it to mfeinberg@cas-stamford.org.
Thank you to Dean Schuckman, chair of the Land Sale committee, Matt Feinberg, and the members of that committee for their many hours of work and effort on this important project.
We encourage all members to participate in this important decision for the Congregation.
CAS Annual Dinner
We are pleased to announce the honorees of the CAS Annual Festive Dinner
March 19, 2017 - 21 Adar 5777:
Celebrating Our Community
The generous of heart will prosper and those who refresh others will be refreshed.
-Proverbs 11:25
Guests of Honor
Sandi & Stuart Waldstreicher
Community Service Award
Dean Schuckman
Young Leadership Award
Daniella & Mitchel Balsam
Chai Award
Barbara & Larry ZL Miller
With a special farewell presentation to Rabbi Walk in gratitude for his years of service at CAS

Dinner Chairs
Darona Bernstein & Liba Steinmetz
Journal Chairs
Jeffrey Maron & Rhonda Schaffer-Maron and Diane & Elliot Sloyer
Our chairs welcome members who would like to join the Dinner or Journal Committees! Please contact Matt at mfeinberg@cas-stamford.org to indicate your interest!
Sign Up For These Events
Click on one of these upcoming events!
CAMERA - Media Manipulation: The Bias Against Israel Dessert & Discusssion
CAS and CAMERA (Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting in America) present Saritz Catz, International Letter-Writing Director for CAMERA giving a presentation on Media Manipulation: The Bias Against Israel. Dessert and Discussion.
We hope to provide transportation to members unable to drive at night. To do this, we need volunteers as well. Please help your neighbor, friend and fellow congregant to participate in this exciting and important presentation. Let CAS be known as the congregation that cares. If you are interested in attending and/or driving, please call the office at 203-358-2200 as soon as possible.
AIPAC Shabbaton
Shabbat, January 21
AIPAC Shabbaton
Ed Miller, AIPAC National Deputy Political Director, will speak on Shabbat after services and during Seudat Shlishit
Information Meeting for Journey of Body & Soul To Israel
Thinking of a trip to Israel? There is no better time to plan a trip than now! Join Rabbi Daniel and Diane Cohen for a Journey of Body and Soul to the Four Holy Cities of Israel. Revised Dates - Leave Monday night, October 30th, 2017 and return Thursday morning November 9th. Join us for an orientation and information session to learn more about the trip on Monday evening, January 23rd from 7:30 PM
Scholar-In-Residence:  Rabbi Benjamin Samuels
Friday Night: The Whole Truth: Can We Handle It? Rabbi Samuels will speak at an oneg hosted by Rabbi Daniel and Diane Cohen at their home at 8 PM.
Shabbat Morning: Halakhah v'Agggadah: The Jewish Story of the Laws of Life
Seudah Shlishit Shiur: The One and the Many: Is there an Essence to Judaism?
CAS Young Families Potluck Shabbat Lunch and Oneg
We are looking for families and couples to host the potluck and provide the main dish, drinks, and challah, and then guests will fill in with side dishes and desserts. Following lunch there will be an oneg at the shul. Join us for this great way to get to know people in the CAS community!
CAS Annual Festive Dinner
Sunday, March 19 - 5:00 PM
CAS Annual Festive Dinner
Please join us on March 19 as we celebrate our community by honoring a great group of individuals who have done so much for CAS...
CAS Youth Teen Minyan Kiddush Fund
Sponsor a teen minyan kiddush
Parents! Help us provide kiddush at all our teen minyans this year!
CAS Young Families
Toddler Time Playgroup Tuesdays, 3:30 pm. Please join us for an hour of free play for children 1 to 4 years old and their caregivers. Facilitated by two moms of toddlers, this drop-in group meets weekly at CAS in the downstairs children's classroom. No cost, a light snack provided. Info: Rachel Kaimowitz rachelshields@gmail.com or Jessica Furmansky JessicaL83@gmail.com

Babies & Breakfast at CAS Bring your baby and come mingle with other moms at CAS. This free group is for moms with babies from birth through 1 to socialize, grab some food, or at the very least, get out of the house! We meet every other Thursday at 11:30 for 1 hour. Next date: January 17. Info: Melissa Litwak (melissalevy@gmail.com) or Rachel Kaimowitz (rachelshields@gmail.com).
CAS Spring Classes
New Adult Education Classes Announcements - Winter Season
Most of the Fall Semester classes will continue. You can join them each week. Rabbi Cohen will restart his Tuesday Torah classes on Isaiah, Depth of Genesis and Parsha Perspectives as and his Friday morning Taste of Torah. Rabbi Walk will continue his Sunday class Bible in the Beginning, Monday Inyana DeYoma, Tuesday Kabalah class, and Thursday Talmud class.
Rabbi Zweiter will offer these new classes:
Weekly Haftarah - Wednesday, 9 AM
  • The weekly haftarah is one of the most frequently recited parts of our liturgy, and yet also one of the most overlooked. Come study the meaning of the weekly haftarah, its connection to the weekly parsha, and gain a deeper appreciation of this sometimes 'lost' piece of liturgy. All texts will be in Hebrew and English.
Rambam Reboot: Maimonides' Principles of the Jewish Faith- Thursday, 9 AM
  • Many of us have heard of the 13 Principles of Faith, but where does that come from? Come study these fundamental texts from their source- the writings of Maimonides. We will try to understand exactly what Maimonides thinks we should believe, as well as positions of those that differed with him. Enrich your understanding of the fundamentals of your faith in just one hour a week! All texts will be in Hebrew and English.
Practical Workshop: How to Start a Jewish Home
  • This 4 part series will explain the basics of starting and maintaining a Jewish home, in a friendly, hands-on fashion. Appropriate for people who are first starting out, as well as those who just want a refresher. All questions and questioners welcome! Dates - Monday evenings at 7:45 PM Jan. 23, 30, Feb 6, 13
  1. Mezuzah
  2. Making a Kitchen Kosher/Tevilat Kelim
  3. Maintaining a Kosher Kitchen
  4. The Kitchen on Shabbat
We are starting an advanced Talmud class one night a week. For those interested, please see Rabbi Zweiter, or email rabbizweiter@cas-stamford.org
CAS Classes
Week of January 8
SundayRabbi David Walk: Bible from the Beginning - 9:15 AM
MondayBob Abrams: Tanach - The Book of Samuel - 10:15 AM
Rabbi David Walk: Dvar Yom B'Yomo. - 11:30 AM
TuesdayRabbi Daniel Cohen: Parsha Perspectives - 12:00 PM
WednesdayRabbi Oran Zweiter: Weekly Haftorah - 9:00 AM
ThursdayRabbi Daniel Cohen: Power of the Prophets - 8:15 AM
Rabbi Oran Zweiter: Rambam Reboot - 13 Principles - 9:00 AM
Rabbi David Walk: Talmud Taanit - 7:30 PM
FridayRabbi Daniel Cohen: The Pre-Shabbos Torah Taste - 8:15 AM
CAS Announcements
  • JOIN US FOR AN ISRAEL ADVOCACY MEETING on Thursday night, Jan. 12, 7:30 PM to learn about plans for 2017 and get involved! For more info, contact Ben Lanson ben.lanson@gmail.com or Rabbi Cohen.
  • ANNUAL YAKAR SHABBAT FEBRUARY 11 a Shabbat of ruach, unity and interactive Torah. Friday night Carlebach light davening led by Chazan Bokow. Shabbat morning four minyanim at 7 AM, 8:00 AM and 8:45 AM (Ashkenaz and Sephardic). Joint Hot Kiddush at 10:00 AM. 10:30 AM Breakout Learning Sessions on The Jewish Family, featuring Yona Goldman- My Big Complicated Biblical Family, Rabbi Alex Ozar- What is Love?, Talia Siscovick- Lessons from the Giving Tree: How to Foster Healthy Family Relationships and Rabbi Elisha Paul- Responding to Contemporary Challenges to Creating and Sustaining a Traditional Jewish Family Musaf at 11:15 AM.
  • CAS FREE MEZUZAH CAMPAIGN IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CT Bringing Blessings to Jewish Homes. Do you know a neighbor or a friend who lacks a mezuzah? CAS offers a free mezuzah and home visit to post this sacred scroll at the entrance to all Jewish homes in the area. For more info, contact Rabbi Cohen: rabbicohen@cas-stamford.org
  • JOIN THE CHEVRA KADISHA We need new volunteers for the Chevra - those willing to perform a tahara. Info: Please contact Rochel Attar at fiveximah@gmail.com
  • IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING We need you to help secure our Synagogue. As you come to the building, please be aware of your surroundings. If you see something out of the ordinary, please let someone know about it. This will keep everyone safe.
  • WELCOME TO OUR SYNAGOGUE PROGRAM Every Shabbat we station ushers at the doors in the sanctuary to welcome people, assist them and enhance the service. We are expanding the usher roles to include a greeter in the lobby from 9-10:30 am. Please join the usher team. We need you and your smile. Info: Mitchell Bell.
  • COMMUNITY CHESED HELPERS An important role of the Chesed committee is outreach to the Shul's elderly and homebound, who are often isolated and lack a lifeline to our synagogue. Volunteer to reach out and identify needs, visit, or give a ride. Even small gestures mean a great deal Interested? Vivian Weiss at 203-323-0909 or vivianweiss@gmail.com. If you are aware of elderly or homebound members in need of outreach, please notify Rabbi Cohen.
  • WE WANT YOU FOR BINGO! Players AND volunteers needed. Join in on the fun we have every MONDAY at 6:00 PM
Community Announcements
  • MINDFULNESS: A GIFT FOR THE SOUL - WITHIN THE MODERN ERA OF DEVICE OBSESSION AND SOCIAL MEDIA FRENZY LIES A DAILY LIFELINE TOWARD BALANCE. One of the most pressing issues in Jewish Day Schools across the country is prayer. Prayer and regular meditation have been proven to be a valuable lifelong skill. Prayer, meditation, and mindfulness allow children (and adults!) to be emotionally balanced, grounded, and focused on building a deeper relationship with G-d. We are excited to have such a unique opportunity to have Scott Goldberg, PhD, highly regarded and accomplished educator, teach us how to use this powerful tool. We hope you will take advantage and join us for a night of special learning, food, and community building. Thursday, January 12, 6:30-8:30pm, Dinner will be served. Hosted by Bi-Cultural Day School. RSVP required - Email: yjeiger@bcds.org. $20 per person; Free of charge for Bi-Cultural families.
  • BI-CULTURAL DAY SCHOOL FAMILY TRIP TO ISRAEL is scheduled to leave April 30 and return May 11, 2017. Let's celebrate Yom Ha'Atzmaut together in Israel!! For more information about this very special trip, please contact Bob Abrams at babrams@bcds.org or 203-329-2186.
  • JCC MEMBERSHIP OPEN HOUSE Sunday, January 8 * 10 am - 2 pm, Monday, January 9 * 5 - 7 pm. Take a tour and receive a complimentary 3-day guest pass to use our fitness center, swimming pool and all group fitness classes. Hear about our nursery school, child-care and after-school programs from our staff. Join at the Open House and save 50% on your first 3 months of membership! For more information visit www.stamfordjcc.org or contact Ilene Madwed at imadwed@stamfordjcc.org or 203.487.0945
  • 3000 YEARS IN THE GALILEE: NEW DISCOVERIES IN THE ANCIENT SYNAGOGUE OF HUQOQ Professor Jodi Magness, leader since 2011 of ongoing excavations in the Jewish village of Huqoq, will discuss the dig and present slides of recent discoveries on Tuesday, January 10 at 7:45 p.m. at the Young Israel of New Rochelle,1149 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY. Among the excavation's major finds is a monumental fifth century synagogue paved with elaborate mosaics, including depictions of the biblical hero Samson as well as the first non-biblical narrative scene ever found decorating an ancient synagogue. Dr. Magness, a professor in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and head of a consortium of universities working in the site, is author of 10 books and dozens of journal articles. For additional information on Dr. Magness and her work, please see jodimagness.org. This lecture, which is free and open to women and men, is part of a continuing series at YINR sponsored by the Women's Initiative for Jewish Studies. For further information or to be added to the mailing list, please email wijs@yinr.org
  • ISRAELI FILM SERIES: GETT: THE TRIAL OF VIVIANE AMSALEM (DRAMA) Thursday, January 12 * 7 pm. In this powerhouse drama, an Israeli woman seeking to finalize a divorce from her estranged husband finds herself effectively put on trial by her country's religious marriage laws. Suggested donation $5, open to the community. To register or for more information, contact Yael Stolarsky, JCC Israeli Shlicha, at 203-487-0951 or ystolarsky@stamfordjcc.org.
  • JEWISH SENIOR SERVICES NEEDS MINYAN MENSCHEN!! JSS is in great need of men to attend and help make our daily Minyan (prayer quorum of ten) in order to help Residents say the Kaddish 365 days of the year. Our Minyan hours will not overlap with most synagogues Minyans. Please feel free to contact Rabbi Stephen Shulman, Director, Pastoral Services at (203) 396-1001 or email sshulman@jseniors.org for exact service times.
  • SAVE THE DATE! Sunday, March 5, 2017, 5PM, at Congregation Agudath Sholom. Annual Stamford Chevra Kadisha Dinner, featuring Dr. Erica Brown as guest speaker. Honoree: Michael Feldstein. Fabulous catered meal by 613 Restaurant with some very special delectable treats and culinary surprises. Only $36/person. Sponsorship is $180 (entitles you to two reservations). Invitations will be in the mail in January. For more information or to make a reservation, please contact Rica Lieberman at ricalieberman@yahoo.com
  • SUPPER AND SONG DANCE PARTY WITH ANDY BAUM Wednesday, January 18 * 5:30 - 6:30 pm. 1 - 5 years old, with parent or caregiver. Wear your dancing shoes, bring your friends and enjoy a JCC FamilyPlace "sing along, sup along" evening, featuring guest entertainer Andy Baum. Pizza served to children and adults. Member $9 / Community $12 if registered before January 11. Member $11 / Community $14 beginning January 11. For more information, contact Allison Murphy at 203.487.0980, amurphy@stamfordjcc.org or visit www.stamfordjcc.org
  • THE CENTER WOMEN OF THE J PRESENT 100 YEARS: 100 SONGS Saturday, January 21, 7:30 pm & Sunday, January 22, 11 am and 3 pm. This original musical review celebrates our JCC's centennial with snippets of 100 songs that reflect the Center's amazing history. Many of the Broadway show tunes are ones you know and love, so come ready to tap your feet, sing along and have a great time! A perfect outing for the entire family! Reservations required. Playbill ads available for purchase. For more information contact Nancy Schiffman at 203-487-0941 or nschiffman@stamfordjcc.org or visit www.stamfordjcc.org to reserve tickets and purchase playbill ads.
  • BRUNCH AND LEARN SERIES: MINORITIES IN ISRAEL: HAREDIM-ULTRA ORTHODOX JEWS Sunday, January 29 * 10 - 11:30 am In the world of Jewish observance and identification, it is Haredi Jews that are perhaps the most visually identifiable, yet they make up only 8% of the Jews in Israel. How do Haredim fit into Israeli society? Suggested donation $5, open to the community. To register or for more information, contact Yael Stolarsky, JCC Israeli Shlicha, at 203-487-0951 or ystolarsky@stamfordjcc.org.
  • O-LA-MI FAMILY GAME SHOW Sunday, January 29 * 5 - 7 pm. Celebrate summer with your friends at our annual O-la-mi Reunion and fundraiser! Reconnect with O-la-mi friends and counselors, and meet new participants and their families. Pizza, games, raffle and O-la-mi fun! All are welcome. $36 per family of 4 ($5 each additional participant). Please pre-register by January 25 so the O-la-mi staff can plan accordingly. All proceeds from this event will be donated to O-la-mi's "Make a Change Campaign," which helps support scholarships for children in need. For more information contact Brandon Yarborough at 203.487.0970, byarborough@stamfordjcc.org or visit www.stamfordjcc.org
  • PRETTY IN PINK: JCC MATZAH BALL ANNUAL FATHER-DAUGHTER DANCE Saturday, February 25 * 6:30 - 8 pm. 5-10 years. Join us for the Matzah Ball, The J's annual father-daughter dance. Dance the night away and play fun games. Dress up for the event of the year. Truly a night to remember! Light refreshments and dessert will be served. Member $36 per "couple," $5 per additional child. Community $45 per "couple," $5 per additional child. For more information contact Galit Roloff at 203-487-0974, groloff@stamfordjcc.org or visit www.stamfordjcc.org.
  • ISRAELI FILM SERIES: ATOMIC FALAFEL (COMEDY) Thursday, February 9 * 7 pm . Two girls from nuclear towns in Israel and Iran spill their countries' most valuable secrets on Facebook while trying to prevent a nuclear crisis. Suggested donation $5, open to the community. To register or for more information, contact Yael Stolarsky, JCC Israeli Shlicha, at 203-487-0951 or ystolarsky@stamfordjcc.org.
  • DO A MITZVAH! CONSIDER SUPPORTING THE JFS KOSHER FOOD PANTRY by purchasing Mitzvah Baskets and/or Mitzvah Centerpieces instead of flowers for your next simcha at CAS. Distributions from the JFS Kosher Food Pantry have increased by more than 1000 since the recession. With this tremendous upsurge in use, JFS is constantly challenged to keep the food pantry full. Your generosity enables JFS to help those in our community in their greatest moments of need.
  • SCHOKE JFS LIFE TRANSITIONS, BEGINNING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14TH AT 4 PM Support group, meeting weekly, for unemployed facing the emotional challenges of finding employment at the Stamford Schoke JFS office, 733 Summer Street, 6th Floor. Contact Anne Birchenough at 203-921-4161 or abirchenough@ctjfs.org.
  • SCHOKE JFS COLLEGE AHEAD! Thursday, December 1st at 7:30 pm Deans of Admissions of prominent colleges will form a panel of experts to share information about the college admissions, academics, Jewish life on campus, residential options and other topics of interest. Claire Friedlander, Schoke JFS College Consultant, will moderate the discussion at the Federation of Jewish Philanthropy office at 4200 Park Avenue, Bridgeport. Open to the community at no cost and registration is not required. Contact Claire Friedlander at 203-921-4161 or email clairef@ctjfs.org for more information.
  • LET'S TALK - Thursdays, 11 :00 am Free at the Stamford JCC, 1035 Newfield Avenue. Seniors talk about common interests and concerns, facilitated by a Schoke Jewish Family Service counselor. Contact Anne Birchenough at 203-921-4161 or abirchenough@ctjfs.org.
  • LET'S TALK - Thursdays, 1:00 pm Free at the Westport Senior Center, 21 Imperial Avenue, Westport. Seniors talk about common interests and concerns, facilitated by a Schoke Jewish Family Service counselor. Contact Anne Birchenough at 203-921-4161 or abirchenough@ctjfs.org.
  • SCHOKE JFS FINANCIAL FITNESS on Thursdays, January 12th; February 9th; March 9th at 7PM at the Jewish Senior Services Campus, 4200 Park Avenue, Bridgeport. In partnership with FJP and Schoke Jewish Family Service, a financial educator from LifeBridge will teach three seminars about Budgeting, Understanding Your Credit and Identity Theft. The seminars are free. To reserve a spot, contact Rebekah Kanefsky at 203-921-4161 or rkanefsky@ctjfs.org.
  • LET'S TALK - Fairfield, starting in February 2017 at 12:45 pm at the Bigelow Center for Senior Activities, 100 Mona Terrace, Fairfield. Seniors talk about common interests and concerns, facilitated by a Schoke Jewish Family Service counselor. Contact Rebekah Kanefsky at 203-921-4161 or rkanefsky@ctjfs.org
  • SNAP ENROLLMENT WORKSHOPS For adults and seniors, Schoke JFS will be providing information and eligibility assistance for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP-formerly food stamps). The second Wednesday of every month at 2:30 pm in the Stamford office (733 Summer Street,6th Floor), SNAP Enrollment Workshops will be presented monthly. For additional information or to register, please contact Rebekah Kanefsky, Schoke JFS Case Manager at 203-921-4161 or email rkanefsky@ctjfs.org.
  • SNAP ENROLLMENT WORKSHOPS For adults and seniors, Schoke JFS will be providing information and eligibility assistance for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP-formerly food stamps). The second Tuesday of every month at 11:00 am in the Westport office (431 Post Road East), SNAP Enrollment Workshops will be presented monthly. For additional information or to register, please contact Rebekah Kanefsky, Schoke JFS Case Manager at 203-921-4161 or email rkanefsky@ctjfs.org.
  • JEWISH SENIOR SERVICES HOSPICE VOLUNTEER TRAINING: The goal is to have trained Hospice volunteers in clusters all over Fairfield County so that when the need presents itself, volunteers do not have to travel far. Chaifetz Family Hospice will be holding a two day Hospice Volunteer Training Program for anyone interested in giving their time and compassion to terminally ill patients and their loved ones. Training will be held at Jewish Senior Services, 4200 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT on Sunday, February 5th and Sunday, February 12th from 9:00am-4:30pm. Training materials and meals will be provided free of charge. If you would like to sign up or to learn more about hospice training, please contact Ellen Ashkins at (203) 365-6417 or by email at eashkins@jseniors.org.
We Wish A Speedy Recovery To
  • Aharon ben Yehudit
  • Alexander ben Ida
  • Basher Rachal bat Hannah
  • Benjamin Rufuel ben Basher Rachal
  • Dov ben Pnina
  • Freidel bat Sarah
  • Gedalya Yitzchak ben Tzivia Rivka.
  • Golda bat Basha
  • Moshe Elya ben Chana
  • Refael Ephraim ben Sima
  • Ruth Leah bat Zahava
  • Shoshana bat Mazal
  • Yaakov ben Selma
  • Yitzchak Asher ben Chana Shayva Chaya
  • Zacharia Aharon ben Aviva
  • Zev Mordechai ben Chaya Gittel
CAS Youth
Calendar:
January, 2017- Theme of the Month: Empathy
  • Tot Shabbat and Mini Minyan-Discussion: What does Empathy mean? Give some examples (ongoing for the month)
  • Jr. Cong. special guest leader- Rabbi Tzvi Bernstein
  • BMC meeting with Ari Leiberman,regular attendees save up your cards for a FREE Soosh trip in Feb.!
  • Tot Shabbat and Mini Minyan-Practice role playing as appropriate.
  • Jr. Cong.- Discussion: What is the difference between Sympathy and Empathy?
  • Jr. Cong. Special HOT Kiddush and nekudot sale- bring all your tickets for great prizes!
  • BMC meeting with Morah Elana Trombka, regular attendees save up your cards for a FREE Sooh trip in Feb.!
  • BMC lunch at the home of Rica and Ari Lieberman.. please RSVP and let us know if you can join!
  • Teen Minyan
  • Jr. Cong. special guest leader
  • Teen Minyan

Upcoming Teen Minyan Dates:

  • Jan 21,28
    Feb, 4, 18, 25
    March 11, 18, 25
    April 8, 29
    May 6
    June 3, 10, 17
If you would like to celebrate your child's birthday or special accomplishment by sponsoring a special "kiddush" or a Mishna and Hot Cocoa in their honor, please email me atrabbijeiger@hotmail.com
If you would like to help support the Youth Department, please visithttp://youth.cas-stamford.org/givingfor all of our sponsorship opportunities.
Shabbat Shalom! Rabbi Yehuda Jeiger

Congregation Agudath Sholom | 301 Strawberry Hill Avenue | Stamford, CT 06902
203-358-2200 www.cas-stamford.org

Congregation Agudath Sholom, 301 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Stamford, CT 06902
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