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

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Friday, July 14, 2017

Congregation Agudath Sholom Shabbat Bulletin

Congregation Agudath Sholom
Shabbat Bulletin
Pinchas
July 15, 2017
21 Tamuz 5777
send your submission to
Schedule
Friday
Mincha7:00 PM
8:12 PM
Candle Lighting8:07 PM
Shabbat
Shacharit7:00 AM
8:00 AM
9:00 AM
Torah Before Tefillah7:40 AM
Coffee & Commentary8:45 AM
Latest Shema9:17 AM
Shiur10:30 AM
Tot Shabbat
Mini Minyan
Jr. Cong
10:30 AM
Latest Shacharit10:32 AM
Perek on the Patio7:00 PM
Daf Yomi7:10 PM
Code of Jewish Law7:10 PM
Mincha8:00 PM
Maariv9:02 PM
Shabbat Ends9:07 PM
Shabbat Shalom
What do the three weeks signify to you?
During this period of the year, we observe mourning practices for the destruction of the Temples, the second one being close to two thousand years ago. If you think about it, it is astounding that we are still mourning. When, God forbid, a loved one passes away, we observe mourning for 30 days or a year depending on the relationship. After the year, we move forward. Never, of course, forgetting the deceased, but always carrying them in our hearts. There are no revisits of the mourning practices. In fact, the Torah mandates against excessive mourning. It is a reflection of our belief that although the body has died, the soul truly lives on forever.
Why is mourning for the Temple different?
The answer is that the dream of return should never die. We still hope and pray for its rebuilding. There is no finality to the destruction. Mourning for the loss over thousands of years is not an exercise in remembrance, but in resolution and recognition. We have a role in its return. The Beit Hamikdash in practice and in theory reflects a messianic vision of the world. The Temple was not merely a building, but a conduit for igniting in the hearts of all humanity a world of peace, righteousness and prosperity.
In 2017, we mourn for Jerusalem as an annual reminder never to lose hope in building a better world. Although it seems the world is unhinged, our role as Jews is to never lose faith and serve as beacons of light. Unlike in a personal crisis, when the most intense period is at the outset beginning with shiva, when mourning for Jerusalem, a historic mourning, we start with the least intense time of mourning to slowly awaken within us the significance of the loss. The day of Tisha B'Av, the climax of the period, is a 25 hour national day of shiva.
As we progress through these weeks, pause to ask yourself what you can do to hasten the redemption. Rav Kook reflected that the Temple was destroyed though baseless hatred, so the Temple will be rebuilt through Ahavat Chinim, unconditional love. The restrictions of no live music, weddings, meat during the nine days are not ends in and of themselves, but means to arouse within us the urgency of serving as a catalyst for redemption. The Mishna in Sanhedrin states that we all must say "For me the world was created." It is up to each of us to heal our corner of the universe.
God willing, as the Talmud states, if we mourn for Jerusalem, we will merit to see her rebuilding speedily and in our days.
Wishing you and your families a Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Daniel Cohen
Welcome
  • new members Mona and Mark Breiner and Scott and Beth Berger
  • Hannah and Ilan Lastoff and their children Charlie, Juliet and Saul, who moved into Stamford this week. We wish them much hatzlacha in their new home.
Siyum Join Rabbi Cohen at 613 for a Siyum (completion of a Tractate celebration) on Tuesday night, July 25th at 6:30 PM. RSVP suggested to Kim at kmahoney@cas-Stamford.org
Keilim Mikveh There is a mitzvah in the Torah to immerse new vessels in a special mikveh. CAS is proud to provide a keilim mikveh in the back of the synagogue for this purpose. We ask that the keilim mikveh only be used during daylight hours so as to respect the privacy of those using the women's mikveh. For any questions regarding immersion of vessels, please ask Rabbi Cohen or Rabbi Zweiter.
Take a Minute to Support Israel Supporting Israel isn't hard -- there are many things that you can do that take literally one minute. The Israel Committee now has a website built on this idea. Go to www.IsraelMinute.com for simple things that you can do, from calling your Congressional representatives to social media posts, that take only a minute or two. Check back frequently for updates and ideas for things you can do!
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 Oran Zweiter
Coffee & CommentaryRabbi Daniel Cohen
ShiurMichael Feldstein: In the Narrow Places: Some Halachic and Philosophical Thoughts on the Three Weeks
SermonRabbi Daniel Cohen
Daf YomiMark Wagshul
Perek on the PatioRabbi Daniel Cohen
Seudat ShlishitRabbi Oran Zweiter
Torah ReaderBarry Best
Weekday Schedule
ShacharitShacharit: Sunday 7:15 AM/8:30 AM, Monday-Friday 6:30 AM/7:30 AM
MinchaMincha: Sunday-Thursday 8:15 PM, Friday 7:00 PM/8:07 PM
Late MaarivMonday-Thursday: The Learning Center, 1766 Bedford Street, 8:45 PM
Candles Friday8:02 PM
Mazal Tov
  • to Jill and Arthur Green on the engagment of their daughter Dina to Greg Celniker
  • to James and Michal Smart on Tani's Bar Mitzvah this Shabbat.
  • to Shelly & Harold Schwartz on the engagement of their granddaughter, Danielle Schwartz to Jacob Marshall
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 PackagesPhyllis Brodsky in memory of her beloved husband, Gerald Brodsky and the Linda Beson Nursing Education Fund
Library KiddushAlbert and Ana Lilienfeld in honor of the half-birthday of Dovi Zucker
Chapel KiddushEric and Pam Greenhut in memory of Eric's father, Kenneth Greenhut's, 5th yahrzeit
Sanctuary KiddushLaura and Dan Katz in memory of Laura's grandmother, Isabelle Price
Sponsor A Kiddush
Shabbat Sanctuary Chapel Library Teen
Jul 22opensponsoredsponsored
Jul 29sponsoredsponsoredsponsored
Aug 5sponsoredsponsoredsponsored
Aug 12sponsoredsponsoredsponsored
Aug 19openopenopen
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.
CAS Israel Advocacy Update
ROSALIE ABERMAN TEEN ADVOCACY FELLOWSHIPS FOR ISRAEL A SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY
Be one of fifteen teens to be selected for a free trip to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee Policy Conference, March 4th-6th, 2018 in Washington DC. The trip will include registration, travel and hotel and the winners will join the Agudath Sholom AIPAC delegation. The participants will also be required to attend the Stamford JCC Speak Up for Israel program. To be one of the fifteen selected, submit a 500 word essay: "WHY DOES AIPAC NEED YOU?"
If you could lobby the members of Congress on Capitol Hill, what would you say? What case would you present about the issues affecting the United States and Israel? Essays will be evaluated by a local and national panel of AIPAC supporters.
Submit to Rabbi Cohen by August 31 at rabbicohen@cas-stamford.org
Open to 9th-12th graders from CAS. We are grateful to Stephanie and Bob Sherman for sponsoring the fellowships in memory of Stephanie's mother, Rosalie Aberman and Michael and Sandra Kamen. We are deeply appreciative of their generosity. If you would like to enable more teens to attend the AIPAC Policy Conference through a contribution to our AIPAC Teen Fund, please be in touch.
Israel is in our mind and hearts. Please consider joining me next spring for the AIPAC Policy Conference. For more info visit AIPAC. Join us on our Fall Trip. For more info visit Israel Trip.
Am Yisrael Chai!
Sign Up For These Events
Click on one of these upcoming events!
CAS Young Families Event - Bagels, Dads & Tots!
Bagels dads and tots round 2-Bring your kids and come join other dads at the JCC playground on Sunday on July 16th from 9:30-11:00. Breakfast will be served.
Adult Education Event:  Rabbi Shlomo Brody
Rabbi Shlomo Brody, founder and director the Tikvah Fund and editor of the Ask the Rabbi column for the Jerusalem Post
Judaism and Fundamentalism: The Case of Wiping out Amalek
Join us for this CAS Adult Education Program, an opportunity to hear an incredible scholar address a very difficult and thorny topic
July Celebration Kiddush
Shabbat, July 29
July Celebration Kiddush
Any occasion is an opportunity to sponsor a kiddush: a birthday, an anniversary, a graduation, a baby naming, you are just glad someone is home safely after traveling, or just because. Celebrate your July milestone by co-sponsoring our July Celebration Kiddush on July 29th. $36 to co-sponsor

Participants as of July 14, 8 AM:

Jen & Avi Avigdor
Daniella & Mitchel Balsam
Darona & Tzvi Bernstein
H&E Bernstein
Aliza & Cantor Rafael Bokow
David & Jessie Brand
Judy & Jeff Cahn
Rabbi Daniel & Diane Cohen
Rachel & Nimrod Dayan
Emily & Zvi Dubitzky
Mariya Feldman
Stephanie & Howard Fogel
Lisa Goldberg
Hilary & Ari Goldstein
Michelle & Howland Gordon
Gloria Green
Shira & Ethan Green
Tricia & Robert Hoff
Liat & Benjy Karsch
Dinah Miller & Seth Marlowe
Omer Neumeier
Rose & Bruce Newman
Jonathan Osser
Joseph Rubbak
Shelly & Harold Schwartz
Shelley & Eddie Senker
Lillian & Sandy Shapiro
Rosalyn Sherman
Daniel Sobelsohn
Josh, Miriam & David Liam Sperber
Sharon & Simeon Wohlberg
Chani & Oran Zweiter
JNF Speaker
Shabbat, August 12
JNF Speaker
As ALEH Negevs Director of Development in the USA , Avnet Kleiner works closely with Jewish National Fund to promote his organization, a pioneering rehabilitation village in Israels Negev that provides medical and therapeutic care to residents with severe cognitive and physical disabilities, as well as outpatient rehabilitative services to children and young adults. His extensive experience in the nonprofit sector includes founding of ALFA, which advances the rights of Israeli Holocaust survivors, and WhatIsrael, which recruits, trains, and sends students to university campuses worldwide to promote constructive conversations about Israel.

He will speak at the Chapel & Sanctuary services and at Seudat Shlishit
New CAS Class
New Class with Rabbi Oran Zweiter
The Lonely Man of Faith - Thursday, 9 AM
Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik was known as one of the 20th century's most prominent religious thinkers. His ideas continue to resonate throughout Jewish and non-Jewish circles alike. Join us on Thursday mornings at 9 AM as we study the thought of this spiritual giant. We will begin with his monumental work in English, "The Lonely Man of Faith." Copies will be distributed.
CAS Classes
Week of July 16
SundayRabbi Oran Zweiter: Bible from the Beginning - 9:15 AM
Bagels with Bob is on hiatus for the summer
MondayBob Abrams: Tanach - The Book of Kings - 10:15 AM
TuesdayRabbi Daniel Cohen - Daniel's Timeless Message for the Three Weeks 7:15 PM
WednesdayRabbi Oran Zweiter: Weekly Haftorah - 9:00 AM
ThursdayRabbi Oran Zweiter: The Lonely Man of Faith - 9:00 AM
FridayRabbi Daniel Cohen: The Pre-Shabbos Torah Taste - 8:15 AM
CAS Young Families
Young Families Oneg in the Shabbos Park July 15 Come join us in the park on Shabbat (weather permitting) at 4:30 pm for an oneg. Please bring a parve snack or dessert!

Bagels dads and tots round 2 Bring your kids and come join other dads at the JCC playground on Sunday on July 16th from 9:30-11:00. Breakfast will be served. click to sign up!

CAS Young Families will host our first women's book club August 7th at 7:45 PM at the private home of a congregant. The first book to be read is The Zookeeper's Wife: A War Story by Diane Ackerman. You can find the link to the book on amazon and it is available in kindle and paperback (or at the library). click to see the Book on amazon.com. Please RSVP if you will attend to Laura by August 2, laurabl@gmail.com. Address of meeting will be given upon RSVP. We will also discuss the book club format and the selection and host for the next book club meeting. Looking forward to seeing many of you there and to discussing this interesting story!

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.

Mommy and Me 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. Info: contact Melissa Litwak at melissaelevy@gmail.com
CAS Announcements
  • JOIN THE CAS DODGEBALL TOURNAMENT TEAM hosted by the Stamford Federation on August 2nd. For more info, contact Adam Furmansky at adam.furmansky@gmail.com
  • NOTE Dena Block, our Steinmetz, Alexander, Bernstein Yoetzet Halacha is on maternity leave until July 26th. In the interim, please direct questions to Tova Sinensky at 201 315 3492 or yoetzet@koheletyeshiva.org.
  • THE HARVEST NOW GARDEN IS BACK - WE NEED YOU! The Harvest Now Garden produces vegetables for a local homeless shelter. It is a great project for young and old and families. Last year, the crop yielded over 300 pounds of vegetables. If you are interested in joining the fun, email harvestnowgarden@cas-stamford.org. To learn more about Harvest Now, visit http://harvest-now.net/
  • JOSEPH AND JULIA MACY MEMORIAL LECTURE - FEATURED SPEAKER RABBI SAUL BERMAN 7:30 pm, Tuesday, September 12th at CAS. Rabbi Saul J. Berman, a leading Orthodox teacher and thinker who has made extensive contributions to the role of social ethics in synagogue life and to the understanding of the applicability of Jewish Law to contemporary society, will be the featured speaker at a pre-Rosh Hashana lecture at Congregation Agudath Sholom. His topic, which will focus on the obligation of forgiving individuals before the High Holidays, will be "Forgiveness for Failings in Friendships."
  • HEALING VISITS MITZVAH UPDATE - Thank you to all of our volunteers on our healing visits team. The healing visits team is a group of men and women in our shul who visit people in the hospital, facilities or at at home. It a very meaningful way to lift people's sprits and make a difference. You can offer as much or as little time as you have for each person is world unto themselves are your warmth lights up their day. Every week we send out a healing visit update. To join the team, contact Rabbi Cohen at rabbicohen@cas-stamford.org
  • 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
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

Community Announcements
  • UJF DODGE BALL TOURNAMENT FOR CHARITY: Join the United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien on August 2, 2017 at 6:15pm at the Stamford JCC courts for the annual Dodgeball Tournament for Charity" sponsored by Titlevest. Enjoy schmoozing with friends, a kosher BBQ and rounds of dodgeball to benefit 3SQUARE, a UJF program providing nutritious food to local public school children in need on the weekends. Play begins at 7:15pm. Not into playing? Come support our cause and be a spectator! For adults of all ages. $25 entrance fee with $18 going directly to 3SQUARE. Because hunger doesn't take a break for the weekend. Other sponsors include BBWG (beverage sponsor), BCDS, Carmel Academy & the Stamford JCC. To sign up go to www.ujf.org.dodgeball17 or contact Sharon Franklin at 203-321-1373 ext. 109/sharon@ujf.org.
  • ADL/UJF PRESENTATION ON JEWISH JOURNALISTS TARGETED ONLINE July 19, 7:30 PM Ferguson Library. Steve Ginsburg, ADL CT Regional Director, and Journalist Yair Rosenberg (Senior Writer, Tablet Magazine) to discuss Yair's experience as a Jewish journalist during the 2016 Presidential Election click here for info
  • TZOFIM FRIENDSHIP CARAVAN SUMMER CONCERT July 18, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Directly from Israel and back by popular demand... a live performance by the Tzofim Friendship Caravan! Children and adults alike will love this show! Don't miss this electrifying performance by 10 professional Israeli teenagers as they rock the stage in Stamford during a stop on their annual tour throughout the US and Canada. These amazing performers will share their lives in Israel through song, dance and story, as they bring a message of peace. Admission free. All are welcome. For more information visit www.stamfordjcc or contact Yael Stolarsky at 203.487.0961 or Email: YStolarsky@stamfordjcc.org
  • ANNOUNCING THE 3RD ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL SHOP EVENT ON JULY 30! Can you help? Back to School Shop provides economically disadvantaged elementary school children in Stamford with the opportunity to "shop" for brand new clothes, backpacks and school supplies at no charge, in a one day event. We served nearly 200 children in our event last summer and hope to increase the number to 250 this year! Can you volunteer for a 4 hour shift at our event? To volunteer, please register here: https://goo.gl/forms/lu6YP7HCOOShPEuh2 For more information please visit www.ujf.org/backtoschoolshop
  • 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.
  • HAVE AN EXTRA COAT IN YOUR CLOSET? Schoke Jewish Family Service Kosher Food Pantry is collecting new or gently used winter gear for our food pantry clients. Coats, hats, scarves, gloves and mittens for adults and children Or donation of retail gift cards (e.g. Old Navy, Target, Kohl's, etc.) Donations can be dropped off Monday - Friday between 9 am - 4 pm at Schoke JFS, 733 Summer Street, 6th Floor, Stamford. For additional information, please contact Rebekah Kanefsky at 203-921-4161 or rkanefsky@ctjfs.org
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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
  • Avraham ben Frances
  • Dinah bat Maria
  • Doron ben Tia
  • Dov ben Pnina
  • Eliezer Yitzchak Dovid ben Miriam Rivka
  • Eliezer ben Leah
  • Esther Shoshana bat Yeta Chaya
  • Feivel Yakov ben Sarah Rochel
  • Ida bat Hanna
  • Ina bat Rivka
  • Moshe Elya ben Chana
  • Refael Ephraim ben Sima
  • Shelamet D'vorah bat Chaya Faygel
  • Shifra Feige bat Reichel
  • Shifra Leah bat Chaya Sarah
  • Shoshana bat Etel
  • Yitzchak Asher ben Chana Shayva Chaya
  • Yosef ben Liba
  • Zev Mordechai ben Chaya Gittel
  • Zvi Doniel ben Chia Priva

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
Constant Contact

Congregation Agudath Sholom Shabbat Bulletin

Congregation Agudath Sholom
Shabbat Bulletin
Pinchas
July 15, 2017
21 Tamuz 5777
send your submission to
Schedule
Friday
Mincha7:00 PM
8:12 PM
Candle Lighting8:07 PM
Shabbat
Shacharit7:00 AM
8:00 AM
9:00 AM
Torah Before Tefillah7:40 AM
Coffee & Commentary8:45 AM
Latest Shema9:17 AM
Shiur10:30 AM
Tot Shabbat
Mini Minyan
Jr. Cong
10:30 AM
Latest Shacharit10:32 AM
Perek on the Patio7:00 PM
Daf Yomi7:10 PM
Code of Jewish Law7:10 PM
Mincha8:00 PM
Maariv9:02 PM
Shabbat Ends9:07 PM
Shabbat Shalom
What do the three weeks signify to you?
During this period of the year, we observe mourning practices for the destruction of the Temples, the second one being close to two thousand years ago. If you think about it, it is astounding that we are still mourning. When, God forbid, a loved one passes away, we observe mourning for 30 days or a year depending on the relationship. After the year, we move forward. Never, of course, forgetting the deceased, but always carrying them in our hearts. There are no revisits of the mourning practices. In fact, the Torah mandates against excessive mourning. It is a reflection of our belief that although the body has died, the soul truly lives on forever.
Why is mourning for the Temple different?
The answer is that the dream of return should never die. We still hope and pray for its rebuilding. There is no finality to the destruction. Mourning for the loss over thousands of years is not an exercise in remembrance, but in resolution and recognition. We have a role in its return. The Beit Hamikdash in practice and in theory reflects a messianic vision of the world. The Temple was not merely a building, but a conduit for igniting in the hearts of all humanity a world of peace, righteousness and prosperity.
In 2017, we mourn for Jerusalem as an annual reminder never to lose hope in building a better world. Although it seems the world is unhinged, our role as Jews is to never lose faith and serve as beacons of light. Unlike in a personal crisis, when the most intense period is at the outset beginning with shiva, when mourning for Jerusalem, a historic mourning, we start with the least intense time of mourning to slowly awaken within us the significance of the loss. The day of Tisha B'Av, the climax of the period, is a 25 hour national day of shiva.
As we progress through these weeks, pause to ask yourself what you can do to hasten the redemption. Rav Kook reflected that the Temple was destroyed though baseless hatred, so the Temple will be rebuilt through Ahavat Chinim, unconditional love. The restrictions of no live music, weddings, meat during the nine days are not ends in and of themselves, but means to arouse within us the urgency of serving as a catalyst for redemption. The Mishna in Sanhedrin states that we all must say "For me the world was created." It is up to each of us to heal our corner of the universe.
God willing, as the Talmud states, if we mourn for Jerusalem, we will merit to see her rebuilding speedily and in our days.
Wishing you and your families a Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Daniel Cohen
Welcome
  • new members Mona and Mark Breiner and Scott and Beth Berger
  • Hannah and Ilan Lastoff and their children Charlie, Juliet and Saul, who moved into Stamford this week. We wish them much hatzlacha in their new home.
Siyum Join Rabbi Cohen at 613 for a Siyum (completion of a Tractate celebration) on Tuesday night, July 25th at 6:30 PM. RSVP suggested to Kim at kmahoney@cas-Stamford.org
Keilim Mikveh There is a mitzvah in the Torah to immerse new vessels in a special mikveh. CAS is proud to provide a keilim mikveh in the back of the synagogue for this purpose. We ask that the keilim mikveh only be used during daylight hours so as to respect the privacy of those using the women's mikveh. For any questions regarding immersion of vessels, please ask Rabbi Cohen or Rabbi Zweiter.
Take a Minute to Support Israel Supporting Israel isn't hard -- there are many things that you can do that take literally one minute. The Israel Committee now has a website built on this idea. Go to www.IsraelMinute.com for simple things that you can do, from calling your Congressional representatives to social media posts, that take only a minute or two. Check back frequently for updates and ideas for things you can do!
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 Oran Zweiter
Coffee & CommentaryRabbi Daniel Cohen
ShiurMichael Feldstein: In the Narrow Places: Some Halachic and Philosophical Thoughts on the Three Weeks
SermonRabbi Daniel Cohen
Daf YomiMark Wagshul
Perek on the PatioRabbi Daniel Cohen
Seudat ShlishitRabbi Oran Zweiter
Torah ReaderBarry Best
Weekday Schedule
ShacharitShacharit: Sunday 7:15 AM/8:30 AM, Monday-Friday 6:30 AM/7:30 AM
MinchaMincha: Sunday-Thursday 8:15 PM, Friday 7:00 PM/8:07 PM
Late MaarivMonday-Thursday: The Learning Center, 1766 Bedford Street, 8:45 PM
Candles Friday8:02 PM
Mazal Tov
  • to Jill and Arthur Green on the engagment of their daughter Dina to Greg Celniker
  • to James and Michal Smart on Tani's Bar Mitzvah this Shabbat.
  • to Shelly & Harold Schwartz on the engagement of their granddaughter, Danielle Schwartz to Jacob Marshall
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 PackagesPhyllis Brodsky in memory of her beloved husband, Gerald Brodsky and the Linda Beson Nursing Education Fund
Library KiddushAlbert and Ana Lilienfeld in honor of the half-birthday of Dovi Zucker
Chapel KiddushEric and Pam Greenhut in memory of Eric's father, Kenneth Greenhut's, 5th yahrzeit
Sanctuary KiddushLaura and Dan Katz in memory of Laura's grandmother, Isabelle Price
Sponsor A Kiddush
Shabbat Sanctuary Chapel Library Teen
Jul 22opensponsoredsponsored
Jul 29sponsoredsponsoredsponsored
Aug 5sponsoredsponsoredsponsored
Aug 12sponsoredsponsoredsponsored
Aug 19openopenopen
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.
CAS Israel Advocacy Update
ROSALIE ABERMAN TEEN ADVOCACY FELLOWSHIPS FOR ISRAEL A SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY
Be one of fifteen teens to be selected for a free trip to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee Policy Conference, March 4th-6th, 2018 in Washington DC. The trip will include registration, travel and hotel and the winners will join the Agudath Sholom AIPAC delegation. The participants will also be required to attend the Stamford JCC Speak Up for Israel program. To be one of the fifteen selected, submit a 500 word essay: "WHY DOES AIPAC NEED YOU?"
If you could lobby the members of Congress on Capitol Hill, what would you say? What case would you present about the issues affecting the United States and Israel? Essays will be evaluated by a local and national panel of AIPAC supporters.
Submit to Rabbi Cohen by August 31 at rabbicohen@cas-stamford.org
Open to 9th-12th graders from CAS. We are grateful to Stephanie and Bob Sherman for sponsoring the fellowships in memory of Stephanie's mother, Rosalie Aberman and Michael and Sandra Kamen. We are deeply appreciative of their generosity. If you would like to enable more teens to attend the AIPAC Policy Conference through a contribution to our AIPAC Teen Fund, please be in touch.
Israel is in our mind and hearts. Please consider joining me next spring for the AIPAC Policy Conference. For more info visit AIPAC. Join us on our Fall Trip. For more info visit Israel Trip.
Am Yisrael Chai!
Sign Up For These Events
Click on one of these upcoming events!
CAS Young Families Event - Bagels, Dads & Tots!
Bagels dads and tots round 2-Bring your kids and come join other dads at the JCC playground on Sunday on July 16th from 9:30-11:00. Breakfast will be served.
Adult Education Event:  Rabbi Shlomo Brody
Rabbi Shlomo Brody, founder and director the Tikvah Fund and editor of the Ask the Rabbi column for the Jerusalem Post
Judaism and Fundamentalism: The Case of Wiping out Amalek
Join us for this CAS Adult Education Program, an opportunity to hear an incredible scholar address a very difficult and thorny topic
July Celebration Kiddush
Shabbat, July 29
July Celebration Kiddush
Any occasion is an opportunity to sponsor a kiddush: a birthday, an anniversary, a graduation, a baby naming, you are just glad someone is home safely after traveling, or just because. Celebrate your July milestone by co-sponsoring our July Celebration Kiddush on July 29th. $36 to co-sponsor

Participants as of July 14, 8 AM:

Jen & Avi Avigdor
Daniella & Mitchel Balsam
Darona & Tzvi Bernstein
H&E Bernstein
Aliza & Cantor Rafael Bokow
David & Jessie Brand
Judy & Jeff Cahn
Rabbi Daniel & Diane Cohen
Rachel & Nimrod Dayan
Emily & Zvi Dubitzky
Mariya Feldman
Stephanie & Howard Fogel
Lisa Goldberg
Hilary & Ari Goldstein
Michelle & Howland Gordon
Gloria Green
Shira & Ethan Green
Tricia & Robert Hoff
Liat & Benjy Karsch
Dinah Miller & Seth Marlowe
Omer Neumeier
Rose & Bruce Newman
Jonathan Osser
Joseph Rubbak
Shelly & Harold Schwartz
Shelley & Eddie Senker
Lillian & Sandy Shapiro
Rosalyn Sherman
Daniel Sobelsohn
Josh, Miriam & David Liam Sperber
Sharon & Simeon Wohlberg
Chani & Oran Zweiter
JNF Speaker
Shabbat, August 12
JNF Speaker
As ALEH Negevs Director of Development in the USA , Avnet Kleiner works closely with Jewish National Fund to promote his organization, a pioneering rehabilitation village in Israels Negev that provides medical and therapeutic care to residents with severe cognitive and physical disabilities, as well as outpatient rehabilitative services to children and young adults. His extensive experience in the nonprofit sector includes founding of ALFA, which advances the rights of Israeli Holocaust survivors, and WhatIsrael, which recruits, trains, and sends students to university campuses worldwide to promote constructive conversations about Israel.

He will speak at the Chapel & Sanctuary services and at Seudat Shlishit
New CAS Class
New Class with Rabbi Oran Zweiter
The Lonely Man of Faith - Thursday, 9 AM
Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik was known as one of the 20th century's most prominent religious thinkers. His ideas continue to resonate throughout Jewish and non-Jewish circles alike. Join us on Thursday mornings at 9 AM as we study the thought of this spiritual giant. We will begin with his monumental work in English, "The Lonely Man of Faith." Copies will be distributed.
CAS Classes
Week of July 16
SundayRabbi Oran Zweiter: Bible from the Beginning - 9:15 AM
Bagels with Bob is on hiatus for the summer
MondayBob Abrams: Tanach - The Book of Kings - 10:15 AM
TuesdayRabbi Daniel Cohen - Daniel's Timeless Message for the Three Weeks 7:15 PM
WednesdayRabbi Oran Zweiter: Weekly Haftorah - 9:00 AM
ThursdayRabbi Oran Zweiter: The Lonely Man of Faith - 9:00 AM
FridayRabbi Daniel Cohen: The Pre-Shabbos Torah Taste - 8:15 AM
CAS Young Families
Young Families Oneg in the Shabbos Park July 15 Come join us in the park on Shabbat (weather permitting) at 4:30 pm for an oneg. Please bring a parve snack or dessert!

Bagels dads and tots round 2 Bring your kids and come join other dads at the JCC playground on Sunday on July 16th from 9:30-11:00. Breakfast will be served. click to sign up!

CAS Young Families will host our first women's book club August 7th at 7:45 PM at the private home of a congregant. The first book to be read is The Zookeeper's Wife: A War Story by Diane Ackerman. You can find the link to the book on amazon and it is available in kindle and paperback (or at the library). click to see the Book on amazon.com. Please RSVP if you will attend to Laura by August 2, laurabl@gmail.com. Address of meeting will be given upon RSVP. We will also discuss the book club format and the selection and host for the next book club meeting. Looking forward to seeing many of you there and to discussing this interesting story!

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.

Mommy and Me 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. Info: contact Melissa Litwak at melissaelevy@gmail.com
CAS Announcements
  • JOIN THE CAS DODGEBALL TOURNAMENT TEAM hosted by the Stamford Federation on August 2nd. For more info, contact Adam Furmansky at adam.furmansky@gmail.com
  • NOTE Dena Block, our Steinmetz, Alexander, Bernstein Yoetzet Halacha is on maternity leave until July 26th. In the interim, please direct questions to Tova Sinensky at 201 315 3492 or yoetzet@koheletyeshiva.org.
  • THE HARVEST NOW GARDEN IS BACK - WE NEED YOU! The Harvest Now Garden produces vegetables for a local homeless shelter. It is a great project for young and old and families. Last year, the crop yielded over 300 pounds of vegetables. If you are interested in joining the fun, email harvestnowgarden@cas-stamford.org. To learn more about Harvest Now, visit http://harvest-now.net/
  • JOSEPH AND JULIA MACY MEMORIAL LECTURE - FEATURED SPEAKER RABBI SAUL BERMAN 7:30 pm, Tuesday, September 12th at CAS. Rabbi Saul J. Berman, a leading Orthodox teacher and thinker who has made extensive contributions to the role of social ethics in synagogue life and to the understanding of the applicability of Jewish Law to contemporary society, will be the featured speaker at a pre-Rosh Hashana lecture at Congregation Agudath Sholom. His topic, which will focus on the obligation of forgiving individuals before the High Holidays, will be "Forgiveness for Failings in Friendships."
  • HEALING VISITS MITZVAH UPDATE - Thank you to all of our volunteers on our healing visits team. The healing visits team is a group of men and women in our shul who visit people in the hospital, facilities or at at home. It a very meaningful way to lift people's sprits and make a difference. You can offer as much or as little time as you have for each person is world unto themselves are your warmth lights up their day. Every week we send out a healing visit update. To join the team, contact Rabbi Cohen at rabbicohen@cas-stamford.org
  • 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
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

Community Announcements
  • UJF DODGE BALL TOURNAMENT FOR CHARITY: Join the United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien on August 2, 2017 at 6:15pm at the Stamford JCC courts for the annual Dodgeball Tournament for Charity" sponsored by Titlevest. Enjoy schmoozing with friends, a kosher BBQ and rounds of dodgeball to benefit 3SQUARE, a UJF program providing nutritious food to local public school children in need on the weekends. Play begins at 7:15pm. Not into playing? Come support our cause and be a spectator! For adults of all ages. $25 entrance fee with $18 going directly to 3SQUARE. Because hunger doesn't take a break for the weekend. Other sponsors include BBWG (beverage sponsor), BCDS, Carmel Academy & the Stamford JCC. To sign up go to www.ujf.org.dodgeball17 or contact Sharon Franklin at 203-321-1373 ext. 109/sharon@ujf.org.
  • ADL/UJF PRESENTATION ON JEWISH JOURNALISTS TARGETED ONLINE July 19, 7:30 PM Ferguson Library. Steve Ginsburg, ADL CT Regional Director, and Journalist Yair Rosenberg (Senior Writer, Tablet Magazine) to discuss Yair's experience as a Jewish journalist during the 2016 Presidential Election click here for info
  • TZOFIM FRIENDSHIP CARAVAN SUMMER CONCERT July 18, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Directly from Israel and back by popular demand... a live performance by the Tzofim Friendship Caravan! Children and adults alike will love this show! Don't miss this electrifying performance by 10 professional Israeli teenagers as they rock the stage in Stamford during a stop on their annual tour throughout the US and Canada. These amazing performers will share their lives in Israel through song, dance and story, as they bring a message of peace. Admission free. All are welcome. For more information visit www.stamfordjcc or contact Yael Stolarsky at 203.487.0961 or Email: YStolarsky@stamfordjcc.org
  • ANNOUNCING THE 3RD ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL SHOP EVENT ON JULY 30! Can you help? Back to School Shop provides economically disadvantaged elementary school children in Stamford with the opportunity to "shop" for brand new clothes, backpacks and school supplies at no charge, in a one day event. We served nearly 200 children in our event last summer and hope to increase the number to 250 this year! Can you volunteer for a 4 hour shift at our event? To volunteer, please register here: https://goo.gl/forms/lu6YP7HCOOShPEuh2 For more information please visit www.ujf.org/backtoschoolshop
  • 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.
  • HAVE AN EXTRA COAT IN YOUR CLOSET? Schoke Jewish Family Service Kosher Food Pantry is collecting new or gently used winter gear for our food pantry clients. Coats, hats, scarves, gloves and mittens for adults and children Or donation of retail gift cards (e.g. Old Navy, Target, Kohl's, etc.) Donations can be dropped off Monday - Friday between 9 am - 4 pm at Schoke JFS, 733 Summer Street, 6th Floor, Stamford. For additional information, please contact Rebekah Kanefsky at 203-921-4161 or rkanefsky@ctjfs.org
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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
  • Avraham ben Frances
  • Dinah bat Maria
  • Doron ben Tia
  • Dov ben Pnina
  • Eliezer Yitzchak Dovid ben Miriam Rivka
  • Eliezer ben Leah
  • Esther Shoshana bat Yeta Chaya
  • Feivel Yakov ben Sarah Rochel
  • Ida bat Hanna
  • Ina bat Rivka
  • Moshe Elya ben Chana
  • Refael Ephraim ben Sima
  • Shelamet D'vorah bat Chaya Faygel
  • Shifra Feige bat Reichel
  • Shifra Leah bat Chaya Sarah
  • Shoshana bat Etel
  • Yitzchak Asher ben Chana Shayva Chaya
  • Yosef ben Liba
  • Zev Mordechai ben Chaya Gittel
  • Zvi Doniel ben Chia Priva

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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