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

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Friday, May 12, 2017

Congregation Agudath Sholom Shabbat Bulletin

Congregation Agudath Sholom
Shabbat Bulletin
Emor
Omer: 32
May 13, 2017
17 Iyyar 5777
send your submission to
Schedule
Friday
Mincha7:00 PM
Candle lighting7:44 PM
Shabbat
Shacharit7:00 AM
8:00 AM
9:00 AM
Torah Before Tefillah7:40 AM
Coffee & Commentary8:45 AM
Latest Shema9:14 AM
Latest Shacharit10:26 AM
Shiur10:30 AM
Tot Shabbat
Mini Minyan
Jr. Cong
10:30 AM
Daf Yomi6:50 PM
Code Of Jewish Law6:50 PM
Mincha7:40 PM
Maariv8:41 PM
Shabbat Ends8:46 PM
Shabbat Shalom
What is Your Unifying Life Principle?
One of the highlights of the Torah portion of Emor is the laws of the Jewish holidays. We learn about the three pilgrimage festivals, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Yet, in the midst of this section, God inserts another unrelated mitzvah. In Chapter 23, verse 22, God states, "When you reap the harvest of your land, leave grains for the poor and convert." Rashi asks, "Why the interruption of the narrative? Why does God place the verse about charity in between the holidays?"
Rashi answers the question with a cryptic, yet profound, life lesson. He states, "The juxtaposition is to teach that one who gives charity is considered to have built the Temple and served God there."
How do we understand Rashi's comment? What is the correlation between these two mitzvoth? Charity is a commandment between humanity - bein adam lachaevro - and the holidays are a mitzvah between mankind and God - bein adam lamakom.
Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe, of blessed memory, the legendary Mussar teacher of the 20th century, offers the following insight. He explains that the same trait that impacts our relationship to other people effects our relationship to God. The sages teach in Mishnas Rabbi Eliezer that a person who is ungrateful to his friend will ultimately be ungrateful to God. If we are insensitive to another human being, it reflects our self-centeredness and ultimately erodes our relationship with God. Hence, the mitzvah of tzedakah and the holidays are intertwined. We cannot hope to be connected to God if we are delinquent in our conduct towards man.
In contrast, the more we express gratitude towards others and practice acts of kindness, the more we will stand in awe and in appreciation of God's beauty and presence in the world. In fact, this reality serves as the foundation of honoring one's parents. Although an interpersonal mitzvah, it is one of the first five commandments of the tablets, since one who honors his parents and walks in humility and gratitude, will be more receptive to realizing God in their lives as well. The key to spirituality is gratitude.
Ask yourself at the Shabbat table:
1. What mitzvoth cultivate an open heart towards God and humanity? How do you inspire this trait in your family and community?
2. How did your parents or grandparents instill within you a love of God and love of man?
3. Who do you know who lives life filled with gratitude towards others and God? In what way?
4. What are you grateful for in your life?
5. How does the story of Lag Ba'Omer reinforce the interconnectedness of both types of mitzvoth?
God reminds us in this Torah portion not to lead bifurcated lives, but one rooted in a generosity of spirit in all of our relationships whether with another human being or with God above.
Wishing you and your families a Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Daniel Cohen
Happy Mother's Day to all of the mothers in our midst!
Happy Lag Ba'omer which will occur this Sunday. The day marks the end of the 33 day mourning period following Passover. Haircuts are permitted on Friday in anticipation of the holiday and weddings and live music are permitted as of Saturday night. For more information about this holiday, visit www.aish.com/h/o/33o/
Welcome Rabbi Ben-Tzion Spitz former Chief Rabbi of Uruguay to our community for Shabbat. He will speak at the 10:30 AM shiur on the topic of Algorithmic Halacha in the Shulchan Aruch and speak at Seudat Shlishit on Uruguayan Jewry & the Jewish Identity Crisis.
Service Notes
  • The Friday night late mincha, kaballat Shabbat and maariv will begin on May 19th and continue through the summer. The minyan will start five minutes after candle lighting.
  • The 5/27 Chapel service will begin at 7:45 am
  • Women's Tefillah Group - May 27th, Naomi Hanna's Bat Mitzvah
Note Unfortunately, due to anticipated inclement weather, the community wide Lag Baomer event on Saturday, May 13, 2017 at the home of the Notiks has been cancelled
Yasher Koach o Shira Nerenberg and Shari Levine for co-chairing our Senior Luncheon. Thank you to Gloria Green, Alisa Weisser, and Nikki Sobelsohn for helping make the luncheon a great success!
Rabbi Cohen's Halacha Question of the Week
  • Question: I enjoy cholent throughout the year in every season. Any reminders from a halachic perspective?
  • Answer: I am also a big cholent fan even in the hottest days of the summer. What is Shabbos without cholent? Thanks for your question. Here are a few guidelines: Make sure the cholent is at least half cooked before Shabbat starts. The Rabbis estimated half of the amount of time to fully cook would render the cholent minimally edible. If the cholent takes five hours to cook, prepare the pot 2.5 hours before the onset of Shabbat. If one forgot to prepare the cholent, one may put the cholent up immediately before Shabbat, as there is no concern of stirring it to hasten cooking. Do not stir the cholent while in the crock pot. Also, it is preferable to remove the ceramic insert of the crock pot before transferring the contents to a serving dish. Adding water to a cholent in the crock pot is permitted in certain circumstances. Please be in touch with me for specific guidelines.
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
Torah Before TefillahRabbi Daniel Cohen
Coffee & CommentaryRabbi Daniel Cohen
ShiurRabbi Ben-Tzion Spitz: Algorithmic Halacha in the Shulchan Aruch
SermonRabbi Daniel Cohen
Daf YomiMark Wagshul
Seudat ShlishitRabbi Ben-Tzion Spitz: Uruguayan Jewry & the Jewish Identity Crisis
Torah ReadersJay Jubas, Gilad Karsch
Weekday Schedule
ShacharitShacharit: Sunday 7:15 AM/8:30 AM, Monday-Friday 6:30 AM/7:30 AM
MinchaMincha: Sunday-Thursday 7:55 PM, Friday 7:00 PM/7:56 PM
Late MaarivMonday-Thursday: The Learning Center, 1766 Bedford Street, 8:45 PM
Candles Friday7:51 PM
SundayLag BaOmer/Mother's Day/Omer: 33
MondayOmer: 34
TuesdayOmer: 35
WednesdayOmer: 36
ThursdayOmer: 37
FridayOmer: 38
Mazal Tov
  • to Liat & Benjy Karsch on Gilad's Bar Mitzvah
  • to Jeff Cunningham & Abby Katz on the birth of a son
  • to Rich and Pam Vogel on Rich's honor as the recipient of the Hyacinth and Harold Hoffman Humanitarian Award at the JCC
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
Shabbat Shalom Hospital Packagesby Gloria Green, Cheryl Frydman, Stacey Mintz, and Ethan Green in memory of Sandy Green on his 15th yahrzeit and the Linda Beson Nursing Education Fund
Chapel KiddushThe Love Family in observance of the yahrzeits of Rose & Abraham Love and Rochelle Boltino and The Schaffer Family on the Yahrzeits of Philip Schaffer (15 Iyar) and Sadie Schaffer (22 Iyar), OB"M
Sanctuary Kiddush: KarschLiat and Benjy Karsch in celebration of Gilad's Bar Mitzvah
Sponsor A Kiddush
Shabbat Sanctuary Chapel Library Teen
May 20sponsoredsponsoredsponsored
May 27sponsoredsponsoredsponsored
May 31
Shavuot
openopen
Jun 3sponsoredsponsoredsponsoredopen
Jun 10sponsoredsponsoredsponsored
Jun 17sponsoredsponsoredsponsoredopen
Sponsor a kiddush! click here to see the menus
Email Matt and he will contact you mfeinberg@cas-stamford.org or see Hecky or Irwin to arrange a Kiddush.
Sign Up For These Events
Click on one of these upcoming events!
Sisterhood Presents Womens Club
Wednesday, May 17 - 4:00 PM
Sisterhood Presents Womens Club
Guest Speaker: Rabbi Walk
Join us - All Welcome
Rabbi Jeiger Seudat Shlishit
As Rabbi Jeiger takes on more responsibilities as Associate Principal at Bi-Cultural, we would like to thank him for his 6 years of service to CAS. Please join us in sponsoring a Seudat Shlishit in his honor.

Participants as of May 12, 10 AM:

BI-Cultural Day School
Darona and Tzvi Bernstein
Heidi Bernstein
Jodi & Richard Boxer
Anat, Marc, Coby, Racheli & Avigayil Chavkin
Meredith, David, Hannah, & Eden Cohen
Rabbi Daniel and Diane Cohen
The Dayan Family
Can Dyman
The Jubas Family
Zucker Family
Jill and Arthur Green
Shira, Ethan, Solomon & Yael Green
Joyce and Larry Haber
Rachel and Dan Haron
Rebekah Kanefsky
Liat & Benjy Karsch
Flora & Carl Kaufman
Rica & Ari Lieberman
Susan and Len Mark
The Marlowe Family
Rose and Bruce Newman
Jessica & Elie Niedober
The Pitkoff Family
The Rubin Family
Rachel and Richard Seligson
Phyllis & Martin Shapiro
Rebecca Sigman
Howard Wolfe
Chani & Rabbi Oran Zweiter
Cantor Concert
Wednesday, May 24 - 7:30 PM
Cantor Concert
PLEASE COME AND CELEBRATE
The Cantor's
Yom Yerushalayim
50th Anniversary Concert

Wednesday, May 24th at 7:30 pm
Congregation Agudath Sholom
Live Music, Dancing and refreshments
With participation of Ira Berk, Jonathan Cahr, &
Mr. Matan Zamir, Deputy Consul of Israel to New England
Free admission

Contact the office if you would like to sponsor
Journey of Body & Soul To Israel trip
Make "Next Year in Jerusalem" a reality! Consider joining the Journey of Body and Soul to Israel this coming November with Rabbi Daniel and Diane Cohen.
Graduation Kiddush
Thursday, June 1
Graduation Kiddush
Join the CAS Graduation Celebration!
If you have a graduate in your family (preschool, elementary school, middle school, high school, college or graduate school), we will publish his/her name and the level from which he or she is graduating.

Celebrate the graduates of our member families with a festive kiddush on the second day of Shavuot in honor of the graduates. Help co-sponsor the kiddush
$50 per family sponsorship || $180 for family cum laude sponsorship
CAS Annual Meeting
Tuesday, June 13 - 7:30 PM
CAS Annual Meeting
Join us for our annual meeting - reports from the Rabbi, President, and Treasurer; election of officers; and presentation of the George and Ziporah Freedberg Awards for Excellence and Outstanding Service
CAS Youth Teen Minyan Kiddush Fund
Sponsor a teen minyan kiddush
Parents! Help us provide kiddush at all our teen minyans this year!
Bar Mitzvah Project
Upcoming Bar Mitzvah Projects: Gilad Karsch
Sisterhood

SYLVIA'S CAS SISTERHOOD GIFT SHOP

Open on Sunday from 10 am - noon

We need volunteers! Please call Julie at (203) 321-6460 or Anne at (203) 321-5072

CAS Young Families
Mommy and Me Resumes This Week - Bring your baby and come meet other moms at CAS. Thursdays 11:30 AM -12:30 PM. For Babies birth through 1. This is a free group open to the community. May 18, 25 and June 8 and 15. For more info, contact Melissa Litwak at melissalevy@gmail.com

CAS Young Families Spring Fling Shabbat Oneg in the Park Please join the CAS Young Families in the Shabbas Park on Saturday, June 10th at 4:30 pm for an oneg. Please bring a parve dessert or snack to share. We are looking forward to seeing everyone! Please feel free to invite friends and any families who may be visiting.

CAS Young Families Shalom Bayit Series with Rabbi Daniel Cohen Shalom Bayit Series with Rabbi Daniel Cohen Three Sundays in the Spring. April 23rd, May 7th and June 11th at 8 PM. Topics will be Parenting on the Same Page, 10 Principles for Spiritual Parenting, Romance in a Busy Marriage. For more information and/or registration for the series, contact Rachel Maryles at rlk212@gmail.com.

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: Jessica Furmansky JessicaL83@gmail.com.
CAS Classes
Week of May 14
SundayBob Abrams: Tanach, Judaism and World History - Bagels with Bob - 10:00 AM
MondayBob Abrams: Tanach - The Book of Samuel - 10:15 AM
TuesdayRabbi Daniel Cohen: Power of the Prophets - Daniel - 8:15 AM
Rabbi Daniel Cohen: Depth of Genesis - 9:00 AM
Rabbi Daniel Cohen: Parsha Perspectives - 12 noon
FridayRabbi Daniel Cohen: The Pre-Shabbos Torah Taste - 8:15 AM
CAS Israel Advocacy Update
CAS Israel Advocacy Update
  1. Reserve Sunday, June 4 for the Celebrate IsraelParade - celebrateisraelny.org. March with one of our local schools, be a spectator, or join CAS! We plan to send a CAS delegation - please contact me if you would like to help plan and participate.
  2. Consider Visiting Israel this year! Contact Rabbi Cohen about his trip
  3. Join our Israel Advocacy Committee
  4. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem. On May 22-25 be front and center for a mega-celebration in Israel in partnership with the Religious Zionist of America (RZA) and World Mizrachi. Individuals and communities from around the world will participate in this once in a lifetime opportunity. Celebrating 50 years of a reunited Jerusalem on Yom Yerushalayim. See www.mizrachi.org/YY50.
CAS Announcements
  • REMINDER As we enter the final months of our fiscal year, we appreciate all members paying any outstanding dues or fees. If you have questions about your account, please contact Matt Feinberg-mfeinberg@cas-stamford.org or 203-358-2200
  • CAS GARDEN IS OPEN We can use some volunteers (all ages) to assist us in the "Harvest Now" vegetable garden behind the Chapel building. Please contact Jim Benjamin at homematters@optonline.net or just show up Sundays at 10am at the garden!
  • DID YOU KNOW? HEALING AND HOSPITALITY UPDATE Whether in the hospital, assisted living, rehab or at home, a visit can lift someone's spirits and help with their healing. We pray in the mi'sheberach for a healing of the spirit and healing of the body. Thank God, we have a cadre of people who volunteer to visit our members. We stay in touch and alert the group to mitzvah opportunities via the healingvisits@cas-stamford.org email group. The warmth of our community is our strength and our value. Thank God, many people are moving into the community. There is no better substitute for building friendships than a Shabbat meal. Once a month, we invite our members to host new families for Shabbat by sending them names. If you would like to be added to either or both groups, please contact Matt Feinberg in the office or Rabbi Cohen.
  • 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
  • CARMEL ACADEMY EVENT Carmel Academy has partnered with Smart Kids With Learning Disabilities to bring "The Impact of ADHD On The Family" to the community next Tuesday, May 16th. This informative and relevant program features Dr. Ellen Littman, clinical psychologist and internationally renowned expert on ADHD. The program will take place at Carmel Academy, 270 Lake Avenue, Greenwich, CT from 7 - 8:30 p.m. The program is free, however kindly register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-impact-of-adhd-on-the-family-tickets-33972550814.
  • GAN YELADIM PRESENTS DAD'S NIGHT OUT WHISKEY TASTING May 18th at 7:30 pm at the Chabad of Stamford. This event is free for Gan dads and $20 for community dads. Space is limited! Please RSVP to jkrinsky@gmail.com by May 16
  • CAS/UJF COMMUNITY EVENT UJF Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien invites you to the home of Rabbi Daniel and Diane Cohen on May 22nd at 8 PM for a discussion with Rachel Dayan about her recent visit to India with JFNA's National Young Leadership Cabinet. She will discuss the Indian Jewish community and how our dollars help some of the poorest people in the world. For more info and RSVP, contact Federation at 203-321-1373.
  • RAFTING Once again, I am looking to plan a white water rafting trip down the Leigh River. Please fill out the form, so that we can determine a date. The two tentative dates are: Sunday. June 25th or July 23rd. If either one doesnt matter, PLEASE SELECT THAT CHOICE. I would like all responses by 5.15.17.goo.gl/bfWklo
  • 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.
  • 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 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.
  • LETS TALK (FREE) Thursdays, 11 am at the Stamford JCC, 1035 Newfield Avenue, 1 pm at the Westport Senior Center, 21 Imperial Avenue, and 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 Anne Birchenough at 203-921-4161 or abirchenough@ctjfs.org.
  • SCHOKE JFS BRAIN FITNESS GROUP PROGRAM -Tuesdays, April 25th and May 16th at 1pm: Designed for individuals looking to stimulate their brain power with a meaningful experience focusing on insight, reducing stress, inspiring confidence, and providing practical support to help reach personal goals! Come and meet others and participate in some mental exercises to stimulate brain power. Insurance co-pays will be accepted, or $20 fee to attend. Light refreshments will be served. Advance registration suggested by contacting Jami Fener, Brain Fitness Program Coordinator at jfener@ctjfs.org or 203-921-4161 x121
  • LETS TALK Fairfield, starting in February 23rd 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
  • NOT ENOUGH MONEY FOR FOOD? Schoke JFS will provide information and eligibility assistance for financial help to purchase food. For a consultation, please contact Rebekah Kanefsky, Schoke JFS Case Manager at 203-921-4161 or email rkanefsky@ctjfs.org.
  • SAVE THE DATE: SCHOKE JFS COLLEGE AHEAD!, Thursday, May 4th at 7:30 pm at the Stamford J, 1035 Newfield Avenue, Stamford. A panel of college admissions deans will discuss topics of interest to high school students and their parents, moderated by Claire Friedlander, Schoke JFS College Consultant. For more information, contact her at clairef@ctjfs.org or 203-921-4161.
  • SCHOKE JFS BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP, meets weekly, Thursdays at 10:30 am, at Congregation Bnai Israel, 2710 Park Avenue, Bridgeport. Gather to share feelings and exchange ideas in a non-judgmental environment that provides emotional, practical, and spiritual support for grieving the loss of a spouse or significant other. Contact Amanda Geffner, Schoke JFS therapist at 203-921-4161 or ageffner@ctjfs.org
We Wish A Speedy Recovery To
  • Alexander ben Ida
  • Benjamin Eitan ben Gittel Abi
  • Daniel Natan ben Sara Leah
  • Dinah bat Maria
  • Doron ben Tia
  • Dov ben Pnina
  • Eliezer ben Leah
  • Esther Shoshana bat Yeta Chaya
  • Feivel Yakov ben Sarah Rochel
  • Ida bat Chana
  • Refael Ephraim ben Sima
  • Shifra Feige bat Reichel
  • Shifra Leah bat Chaya Sarah
  • Yitzchak Asher ben Chana Shayva Chaya
  • Yosef ben Batya
  • Zev Mordechai ben Chaya Gittel
CAS Youth
Calendar:

May 2017 - Theme of the Month: Eretz Yisrael

May 13-
  • LAG BAOMER "KUMSITZ" IN ALL GROUPS!
May 20-
  • Tot Shabbat/ Mini Minyan - Discussion: Who has been to Yerushalayim and what do they remember most about Israel? (ongoing for the month)
  • Jr. Cong. - Discussion about 1967 and the importance of Yerushalayim to the Jewish people.
  • BMC meeting with David Giver
May 27-
  • SPECIAL YOM YERUSHALAYIM SNACKS IN ALL GROUPS!
SHAVUOT - MAY 31- JUNE 1: Many amazing learning opportunities for kids of all ages... Stay tuned for details,

Upcoming Teen Minyan Dates:

  • 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
Sent by notices@cas-stamford.org in collaboration with
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Congregation Agudath Sholom Shabbat Bulletin

Congregation Agudath Sholom
Shabbat Bulletin
Emor
Omer: 32
May 13, 2017
17 Iyyar 5777
send your submission to
Schedule
Friday
Mincha7:00 PM
Candle lighting7:44 PM
Shabbat
Shacharit7:00 AM
8:00 AM
9:00 AM
Torah Before Tefillah7:40 AM
Coffee & Commentary8:45 AM
Latest Shema9:14 AM
Latest Shacharit10:26 AM
Shiur10:30 AM
Tot Shabbat
Mini Minyan
Jr. Cong
10:30 AM
Daf Yomi6:50 PM
Code Of Jewish Law6:50 PM
Mincha7:40 PM
Maariv8:41 PM
Shabbat Ends8:46 PM
Shabbat Shalom
What is Your Unifying Life Principle?
One of the highlights of the Torah portion of Emor is the laws of the Jewish holidays. We learn about the three pilgrimage festivals, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Yet, in the midst of this section, God inserts another unrelated mitzvah. In Chapter 23, verse 22, God states, "When you reap the harvest of your land, leave grains for the poor and convert." Rashi asks, "Why the interruption of the narrative? Why does God place the verse about charity in between the holidays?"
Rashi answers the question with a cryptic, yet profound, life lesson. He states, "The juxtaposition is to teach that one who gives charity is considered to have built the Temple and served God there."
How do we understand Rashi's comment? What is the correlation between these two mitzvoth? Charity is a commandment between humanity - bein adam lachaevro - and the holidays are a mitzvah between mankind and God - bein adam lamakom.
Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe, of blessed memory, the legendary Mussar teacher of the 20th century, offers the following insight. He explains that the same trait that impacts our relationship to other people effects our relationship to God. The sages teach in Mishnas Rabbi Eliezer that a person who is ungrateful to his friend will ultimately be ungrateful to God. If we are insensitive to another human being, it reflects our self-centeredness and ultimately erodes our relationship with God. Hence, the mitzvah of tzedakah and the holidays are intertwined. We cannot hope to be connected to God if we are delinquent in our conduct towards man.
In contrast, the more we express gratitude towards others and practice acts of kindness, the more we will stand in awe and in appreciation of God's beauty and presence in the world. In fact, this reality serves as the foundation of honoring one's parents. Although an interpersonal mitzvah, it is one of the first five commandments of the tablets, since one who honors his parents and walks in humility and gratitude, will be more receptive to realizing God in their lives as well. The key to spirituality is gratitude.
Ask yourself at the Shabbat table:
1. What mitzvoth cultivate an open heart towards God and humanity? How do you inspire this trait in your family and community?
2. How did your parents or grandparents instill within you a love of God and love of man?
3. Who do you know who lives life filled with gratitude towards others and God? In what way?
4. What are you grateful for in your life?
5. How does the story of Lag Ba'Omer reinforce the interconnectedness of both types of mitzvoth?
God reminds us in this Torah portion not to lead bifurcated lives, but one rooted in a generosity of spirit in all of our relationships whether with another human being or with God above.
Wishing you and your families a Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Daniel Cohen
Happy Mother's Day to all of the mothers in our midst!
Happy Lag Ba'omer which will occur this Sunday. The day marks the end of the 33 day mourning period following Passover. Haircuts are permitted on Friday in anticipation of the holiday and weddings and live music are permitted as of Saturday night. For more information about this holiday, visit www.aish.com/h/o/33o/
Welcome Rabbi Ben-Tzion Spitz former Chief Rabbi of Uruguay to our community for Shabbat. He will speak at the 10:30 AM shiur on the topic of Algorithmic Halacha in the Shulchan Aruch and speak at Seudat Shlishit on Uruguayan Jewry & the Jewish Identity Crisis.
Service Notes
  • The Friday night late mincha, kaballat Shabbat and maariv will begin on May 19th and continue through the summer. The minyan will start five minutes after candle lighting.
  • The 5/27 Chapel service will begin at 7:45 am
  • Women's Tefillah Group - May 27th, Naomi Hanna's Bat Mitzvah
Note Unfortunately, due to anticipated inclement weather, the community wide Lag Baomer event on Saturday, May 13, 2017 at the home of the Notiks has been cancelled
Yasher Koach o Shira Nerenberg and Shari Levine for co-chairing our Senior Luncheon. Thank you to Gloria Green, Alisa Weisser, and Nikki Sobelsohn for helping make the luncheon a great success!
Rabbi Cohen's Halacha Question of the Week
  • Question: I enjoy cholent throughout the year in every season. Any reminders from a halachic perspective?
  • Answer: I am also a big cholent fan even in the hottest days of the summer. What is Shabbos without cholent? Thanks for your question. Here are a few guidelines: Make sure the cholent is at least half cooked before Shabbat starts. The Rabbis estimated half of the amount of time to fully cook would render the cholent minimally edible. If the cholent takes five hours to cook, prepare the pot 2.5 hours before the onset of Shabbat. If one forgot to prepare the cholent, one may put the cholent up immediately before Shabbat, as there is no concern of stirring it to hasten cooking. Do not stir the cholent while in the crock pot. Also, it is preferable to remove the ceramic insert of the crock pot before transferring the contents to a serving dish. Adding water to a cholent in the crock pot is permitted in certain circumstances. Please be in touch with me for specific guidelines.
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
Torah Before TefillahRabbi Daniel Cohen
Coffee & CommentaryRabbi Daniel Cohen
ShiurRabbi Ben-Tzion Spitz: Algorithmic Halacha in the Shulchan Aruch
SermonRabbi Daniel Cohen
Daf YomiMark Wagshul
Seudat ShlishitRabbi Ben-Tzion Spitz: Uruguayan Jewry & the Jewish Identity Crisis
Torah ReadersJay Jubas, Gilad Karsch
Weekday Schedule
ShacharitShacharit: Sunday 7:15 AM/8:30 AM, Monday-Friday 6:30 AM/7:30 AM
MinchaMincha: Sunday-Thursday 7:55 PM, Friday 7:00 PM/7:56 PM
Late MaarivMonday-Thursday: The Learning Center, 1766 Bedford Street, 8:45 PM
Candles Friday7:51 PM
SundayLag BaOmer/Mother's Day/Omer: 33
MondayOmer: 34
TuesdayOmer: 35
WednesdayOmer: 36
ThursdayOmer: 37
FridayOmer: 38
Mazal Tov
  • to Liat & Benjy Karsch on Gilad's Bar Mitzvah
  • to Jeff Cunningham & Abby Katz on the birth of a son
  • to Rich and Pam Vogel on Rich's honor as the recipient of the Hyacinth and Harold Hoffman Humanitarian Award at the JCC
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
Shabbat Shalom Hospital Packagesby Gloria Green, Cheryl Frydman, Stacey Mintz, and Ethan Green in memory of Sandy Green on his 15th yahrzeit and the Linda Beson Nursing Education Fund
Chapel KiddushThe Love Family in observance of the yahrzeits of Rose & Abraham Love and Rochelle Boltino and The Schaffer Family on the Yahrzeits of Philip Schaffer (15 Iyar) and Sadie Schaffer (22 Iyar), OB"M
Sanctuary Kiddush: KarschLiat and Benjy Karsch in celebration of Gilad's Bar Mitzvah
Sponsor A Kiddush
Shabbat Sanctuary Chapel Library Teen
May 20sponsoredsponsoredsponsored
May 27sponsoredsponsoredsponsored
May 31
Shavuot
openopen
Jun 3sponsoredsponsoredsponsoredopen
Jun 10sponsoredsponsoredsponsored
Jun 17sponsoredsponsoredsponsoredopen
Sponsor a kiddush! click here to see the menus
Email Matt and he will contact you mfeinberg@cas-stamford.org or see Hecky or Irwin to arrange a Kiddush.
Sign Up For These Events
Click on one of these upcoming events!
Sisterhood Presents Womens Club
Wednesday, May 17 - 4:00 PM
Sisterhood Presents Womens Club
Guest Speaker: Rabbi Walk
Join us - All Welcome
Rabbi Jeiger Seudat Shlishit
As Rabbi Jeiger takes on more responsibilities as Associate Principal at Bi-Cultural, we would like to thank him for his 6 years of service to CAS. Please join us in sponsoring a Seudat Shlishit in his honor.

Participants as of May 12, 10 AM:

BI-Cultural Day School
Darona and Tzvi Bernstein
Heidi Bernstein
Jodi & Richard Boxer
Anat, Marc, Coby, Racheli & Avigayil Chavkin
Meredith, David, Hannah, & Eden Cohen
Rabbi Daniel and Diane Cohen
The Dayan Family
Can Dyman
The Jubas Family
Zucker Family
Jill and Arthur Green
Shira, Ethan, Solomon & Yael Green
Joyce and Larry Haber
Rachel and Dan Haron
Rebekah Kanefsky
Liat & Benjy Karsch
Flora & Carl Kaufman
Rica & Ari Lieberman
Susan and Len Mark
The Marlowe Family
Rose and Bruce Newman
Jessica & Elie Niedober
The Pitkoff Family
The Rubin Family
Rachel and Richard Seligson
Phyllis & Martin Shapiro
Rebecca Sigman
Howard Wolfe
Chani & Rabbi Oran Zweiter
Cantor Concert
Wednesday, May 24 - 7:30 PM
Cantor Concert
PLEASE COME AND CELEBRATE
The Cantor's
Yom Yerushalayim
50th Anniversary Concert

Wednesday, May 24th at 7:30 pm
Congregation Agudath Sholom
Live Music, Dancing and refreshments
With participation of Ira Berk, Jonathan Cahr, &
Mr. Matan Zamir, Deputy Consul of Israel to New England
Free admission

Contact the office if you would like to sponsor
Journey of Body & Soul To Israel trip
Make "Next Year in Jerusalem" a reality! Consider joining the Journey of Body and Soul to Israel this coming November with Rabbi Daniel and Diane Cohen.
Graduation Kiddush
Thursday, June 1
Graduation Kiddush
Join the CAS Graduation Celebration!
If you have a graduate in your family (preschool, elementary school, middle school, high school, college or graduate school), we will publish his/her name and the level from which he or she is graduating.

Celebrate the graduates of our member families with a festive kiddush on the second day of Shavuot in honor of the graduates. Help co-sponsor the kiddush
$50 per family sponsorship || $180 for family cum laude sponsorship
CAS Annual Meeting
Tuesday, June 13 - 7:30 PM
CAS Annual Meeting
Join us for our annual meeting - reports from the Rabbi, President, and Treasurer; election of officers; and presentation of the George and Ziporah Freedberg Awards for Excellence and Outstanding Service
CAS Youth Teen Minyan Kiddush Fund
Sponsor a teen minyan kiddush
Parents! Help us provide kiddush at all our teen minyans this year!
Bar Mitzvah Project
Upcoming Bar Mitzvah Projects: Gilad Karsch
Sisterhood

SYLVIA'S CAS SISTERHOOD GIFT SHOP

Open on Sunday from 10 am - noon

We need volunteers! Please call Julie at (203) 321-6460 or Anne at (203) 321-5072

CAS Young Families
Mommy and Me Resumes This Week - Bring your baby and come meet other moms at CAS. Thursdays 11:30 AM -12:30 PM. For Babies birth through 1. This is a free group open to the community. May 18, 25 and June 8 and 15. For more info, contact Melissa Litwak at melissalevy@gmail.com

CAS Young Families Spring Fling Shabbat Oneg in the Park Please join the CAS Young Families in the Shabbas Park on Saturday, June 10th at 4:30 pm for an oneg. Please bring a parve dessert or snack to share. We are looking forward to seeing everyone! Please feel free to invite friends and any families who may be visiting.

CAS Young Families Shalom Bayit Series with Rabbi Daniel Cohen Shalom Bayit Series with Rabbi Daniel Cohen Three Sundays in the Spring. April 23rd, May 7th and June 11th at 8 PM. Topics will be Parenting on the Same Page, 10 Principles for Spiritual Parenting, Romance in a Busy Marriage. For more information and/or registration for the series, contact Rachel Maryles at rlk212@gmail.com.

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: Jessica Furmansky JessicaL83@gmail.com.
CAS Classes
Week of May 14
SundayBob Abrams: Tanach, Judaism and World History - Bagels with Bob - 10:00 AM
MondayBob Abrams: Tanach - The Book of Samuel - 10:15 AM
TuesdayRabbi Daniel Cohen: Power of the Prophets - Daniel - 8:15 AM
Rabbi Daniel Cohen: Depth of Genesis - 9:00 AM
Rabbi Daniel Cohen: Parsha Perspectives - 12 noon
FridayRabbi Daniel Cohen: The Pre-Shabbos Torah Taste - 8:15 AM
CAS Israel Advocacy Update
CAS Israel Advocacy Update
  1. Reserve Sunday, June 4 for the Celebrate IsraelParade - celebrateisraelny.org. March with one of our local schools, be a spectator, or join CAS! We plan to send a CAS delegation - please contact me if you would like to help plan and participate.
  2. Consider Visiting Israel this year! Contact Rabbi Cohen about his trip
  3. Join our Israel Advocacy Committee
  4. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem. On May 22-25 be front and center for a mega-celebration in Israel in partnership with the Religious Zionist of America (RZA) and World Mizrachi. Individuals and communities from around the world will participate in this once in a lifetime opportunity. Celebrating 50 years of a reunited Jerusalem on Yom Yerushalayim. See www.mizrachi.org/YY50.
CAS Announcements
  • REMINDER As we enter the final months of our fiscal year, we appreciate all members paying any outstanding dues or fees. If you have questions about your account, please contact Matt Feinberg-mfeinberg@cas-stamford.org or 203-358-2200
  • CAS GARDEN IS OPEN We can use some volunteers (all ages) to assist us in the "Harvest Now" vegetable garden behind the Chapel building. Please contact Jim Benjamin at homematters@optonline.net or just show up Sundays at 10am at the garden!
  • DID YOU KNOW? HEALING AND HOSPITALITY UPDATE Whether in the hospital, assisted living, rehab or at home, a visit can lift someone's spirits and help with their healing. We pray in the mi'sheberach for a healing of the spirit and healing of the body. Thank God, we have a cadre of people who volunteer to visit our members. We stay in touch and alert the group to mitzvah opportunities via the healingvisits@cas-stamford.org email group. The warmth of our community is our strength and our value. Thank God, many people are moving into the community. There is no better substitute for building friendships than a Shabbat meal. Once a month, we invite our members to host new families for Shabbat by sending them names. If you would like to be added to either or both groups, please contact Matt Feinberg in the office or Rabbi Cohen.
  • 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
  • CARMEL ACADEMY EVENT Carmel Academy has partnered with Smart Kids With Learning Disabilities to bring "The Impact of ADHD On The Family" to the community next Tuesday, May 16th. This informative and relevant program features Dr. Ellen Littman, clinical psychologist and internationally renowned expert on ADHD. The program will take place at Carmel Academy, 270 Lake Avenue, Greenwich, CT from 7 - 8:30 p.m. The program is free, however kindly register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-impact-of-adhd-on-the-family-tickets-33972550814.
  • GAN YELADIM PRESENTS DAD'S NIGHT OUT WHISKEY TASTING May 18th at 7:30 pm at the Chabad of Stamford. This event is free for Gan dads and $20 for community dads. Space is limited! Please RSVP to jkrinsky@gmail.com by May 16
  • CAS/UJF COMMUNITY EVENT UJF Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien invites you to the home of Rabbi Daniel and Diane Cohen on May 22nd at 8 PM for a discussion with Rachel Dayan about her recent visit to India with JFNA's National Young Leadership Cabinet. She will discuss the Indian Jewish community and how our dollars help some of the poorest people in the world. For more info and RSVP, contact Federation at 203-321-1373.
  • RAFTING Once again, I am looking to plan a white water rafting trip down the Leigh River. Please fill out the form, so that we can determine a date. The two tentative dates are: Sunday. June 25th or July 23rd. If either one doesnt matter, PLEASE SELECT THAT CHOICE. I would like all responses by 5.15.17.goo.gl/bfWklo
  • 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.
  • 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 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.
  • LETS TALK (FREE) Thursdays, 11 am at the Stamford JCC, 1035 Newfield Avenue, 1 pm at the Westport Senior Center, 21 Imperial Avenue, and 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 Anne Birchenough at 203-921-4161 or abirchenough@ctjfs.org.
  • SCHOKE JFS BRAIN FITNESS GROUP PROGRAM -Tuesdays, April 25th and May 16th at 1pm: Designed for individuals looking to stimulate their brain power with a meaningful experience focusing on insight, reducing stress, inspiring confidence, and providing practical support to help reach personal goals! Come and meet others and participate in some mental exercises to stimulate brain power. Insurance co-pays will be accepted, or $20 fee to attend. Light refreshments will be served. Advance registration suggested by contacting Jami Fener, Brain Fitness Program Coordinator at jfener@ctjfs.org or 203-921-4161 x121
  • LETS TALK Fairfield, starting in February 23rd 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
  • NOT ENOUGH MONEY FOR FOOD? Schoke JFS will provide information and eligibility assistance for financial help to purchase food. For a consultation, please contact Rebekah Kanefsky, Schoke JFS Case Manager at 203-921-4161 or email rkanefsky@ctjfs.org.
  • SAVE THE DATE: SCHOKE JFS COLLEGE AHEAD!, Thursday, May 4th at 7:30 pm at the Stamford J, 1035 Newfield Avenue, Stamford. A panel of college admissions deans will discuss topics of interest to high school students and their parents, moderated by Claire Friedlander, Schoke JFS College Consultant. For more information, contact her at clairef@ctjfs.org or 203-921-4161.
  • SCHOKE JFS BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP, meets weekly, Thursdays at 10:30 am, at Congregation Bnai Israel, 2710 Park Avenue, Bridgeport. Gather to share feelings and exchange ideas in a non-judgmental environment that provides emotional, practical, and spiritual support for grieving the loss of a spouse or significant other. Contact Amanda Geffner, Schoke JFS therapist at 203-921-4161 or ageffner@ctjfs.org
We Wish A Speedy Recovery To
  • Alexander ben Ida
  • Benjamin Eitan ben Gittel Abi
  • Daniel Natan ben Sara Leah
  • Dinah bat Maria
  • Doron ben Tia
  • Dov ben Pnina
  • Eliezer ben Leah
  • Esther Shoshana bat Yeta Chaya
  • Feivel Yakov ben Sarah Rochel
  • Ida bat Chana
  • Refael Ephraim ben Sima
  • Shifra Feige bat Reichel
  • Shifra Leah bat Chaya Sarah
  • Yitzchak Asher ben Chana Shayva Chaya
  • Yosef ben Batya
  • Zev Mordechai ben Chaya Gittel
CAS Youth
Calendar:

May 2017 - Theme of the Month: Eretz Yisrael

May 13-
  • LAG BAOMER "KUMSITZ" IN ALL GROUPS!
May 20-
  • Tot Shabbat/ Mini Minyan - Discussion: Who has been to Yerushalayim and what do they remember most about Israel? (ongoing for the month)
  • Jr. Cong. - Discussion about 1967 and the importance of Yerushalayim to the Jewish people.
  • BMC meeting with David Giver
May 27-
  • SPECIAL YOM YERUSHALAYIM SNACKS IN ALL GROUPS!
SHAVUOT - MAY 31- JUNE 1: Many amazing learning opportunities for kids of all ages... Stay tuned for details,

Upcoming Teen Minyan Dates:

  • 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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