| Congregation Agudath Sholom
Shabbat Bulletin |
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| | Miketz | Chanukah
Mevarchim Chodesh | December 28, 2024 | 27 Kislev 5785 |
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| | Friday | | | Candle Lighting: Chanukah Lighting is prior to Shabbat Candle Lighting (4:14 PM) and Chanukah Candles or Oil should last at least until 5:45 PM | 4:14 PM | | Mincha | 4:19 PM | | Shabbat | | | Shacharit | 7:00/8:00/9:00 AM | | Latest Shema | 8:53 AM | | Latest Shacharit | 9:54 AM | | Shiur: Rabbi Bob Abrams | 10:30 AM | | Mincha | 12:26 PM/4:10 PM | | Code Of Jewish Law: Rabbi Dr. Jeff Cahn | 3:20 PM | | Seuda Shlishit Shiur: Rabbi Levi Feller | 4:10 PM | | Havdalah | 5:15 PM |
Torah and Light What is the secret of Jewish continuity? I believe it emerges from deepening our commitment to God via Torah and to each other via a smile. First, the Greeks understood the secret of Jewish continuity. For this reason, they sought to Hellenize the Jewish people. Unlike Purim, where Haman sought to annihilate the Jewish people, Anitochus attempted to assimilate our people into oblivion. He forbade the observance of Shabbat, Rosh Chodesh, circumcision and, most importantly, the study of Torah. He understood that the future of the Jewish people was intrinsically bound to Torah learning and living. If we do not know who we are as Jews, we will never realize our mission of creating a world infused with ethical monotheism and the light of God. The symbol of the dreidel embodies the centrality of Torah. Can you imagine being told that you were, God forbid, subject to death for studying Torah. What would you do? Would Torah study be worth the risk? Thousands of years ago, rather than perceive the decree as a vacation from school, the young children played dreidel as a ruse to mask their study of Torah. It meant so much to them and their families, it was so much a part of their lives and development, that they could not fathom a world devoid of Jewish education. Torah is the fuel for our future. Secondly, we light candles for Shabbat and Chanukah. What is the take away from the flames of these candles? I learned from my parents it is our responsibility to keep the flame alive and spread it - to keep the fire burning brightly. One of my father's close friends - Geoff Frisch, of blessed memory - lived this idea. He was a successful businessman, but saw life's experiences as a series of opportunities. He said: "I am not concerned whether someone buys from me or not, but whether we are connected as two human beings. If I can make someone smile or make a difference in someone's life, then regardless of the material benefit, I know that I am living for eternity." With God's help, we will all make the world an even brighter place. Shabbat Shalom, Happy Chanukah and God willing good news from Israel in the days ahead, Rabbi Daniel Cohen |
Shabbat Information - Shabbat is the third day of Chanukah.
- The Chanukah candles are lit prior to the shabbos candles. There should be enough fuel for it to last until approximately 5:45pm.
- We insert Al Hanissim and recite Hallel.
- Learn about the Shabbat Torah Reading for Parshat Mikeitz with the insights of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks z"l - click here.
- There is a second Torah in which we read from Parshat Nasso.
- The haftara is read from Zechariah 2:14-4:7.
- Haftarah summary by Chabad.org - click here.
- Haftarah summary by Haftarah Helper - click here.
- We bless the month of Teves; the Molad will be on Monday, December 30th, 5:33 PM and 16 chalokim.
- Mizmor Shir Chanukat HaBayit is recited after the Shir shel Yom.
- Would you like to read the Torah or Haftara for your bar mitzvah parsha? Let us know click here
Shabbat Icebreakers (courtesy of Yaakov Moshe and Elisheva Shmidman) - A nickname you have had or your favorite nickname for someone else (Pharaoh calls Yosef Tzafnas Paneach)
- Your favorite spy movie, book etc. (Yosef accuses the brothers of being spies)
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Chanukah As we celebrate Chanukah, our hearts and minds are with our brothers and sisters still incaptivity, on the battlefront, or displaced from their homes as this second ChanukahApproaches.Rav Yosef Zvi Rimon recently wrote 8 brief prayers, one for each night of Chanukah, during this time of war. click here to print out these meaningful and powerful prayers, in both English and Hebrew, and place them next to your menorah for each night when you kindle the Chanukah lights.In times of darkness, it is our imperative to bring more light into the world. Join us for thenumerous opportunities to spread the light of Chanukah.Finally, Chanukah offers a portal for spiritual growth and transformation. Listen and share a series of four Chanukah podcasts on my podcast with Steven Labkoff Judaism and the 21st Century on the topics of Jewish Pride, Finding Light, Assimilation and Miracles. click here
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Prayers for Hostages - We Pray for the Immediate Rescue and Release
"Acheinu kol Bais Yisrael – Our brethren, the entire Jewish People"
"Hanesunim bitzara u'bishivya – who are delivered into confinement and captivity"
"Ha'omdim bein bayam u'vein bayabasha – whether they be on the sea or dry land"
"HaMakom yiracheim aleihem viyotzi'eim mitzara li'rvacha – May the Omnipresent have mercy on them and remove them from distress to relief"
"U'mei'afela li'ora – and from darkness to light"
"U'mishibud lig'ula – and from subjugation to redemption"
"Hashta b'agala u'viz'man kariv – now, speedily, and close at hand"
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| Meal Train A note from Diane Cohen, Naomi Kohl and Leah Shemtov about Meal Trains. Help us make sure every family in our community, who has a simcha or a need gets the love and support of a meal train, and that we can join together to fill it each time! May we have good news and happy occasions to share in our community! |
Join CSS The safety and security of our community depend on each of us stepping up to do our part. We are inviting you to join the CSS (Community Security Service) team and contribute to creating a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
To prepare new volunteers, we will be having an in-person training on Monday, January 13th, paired with a short online portion to be completed beforehand.
Why Join CSS?- Strengthen our community's safety and preparedness.
- Gain valuable skills in situational awareness and security.
- Be a part of a committed team protecting what matters most.
Register Here
For further questions or assistance, please contact Adam Breiner at adambr@thecss.org.
Your participation makes all the difference. Let's come together to create a secure and welcoming space for all.
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Save the Date - 2025 CAS Annual Dinner March 23, 2025- Guests of Honor: Maria & Glenn Reicin
- Young Leadership Award: Shushannah & Ari Yasgur
- Community Service Award: Aviva Maller
- Chai Award: Lorraine & David Kweskin
- Dinner Chairs: Alex & Brett Olsson and Lorraine & James Marcus
- Honorary Dinner Chairs (in formation): Stephanie & Josh Bilenker, Helene & Harvey Kaminski, Liat Sharabi Karsch and Gayle & Howard Rothman
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Shabbat Topics & Participants |
| Coffee & Commentary | Rabbi Daniel Cohen | | Bob's Basics | Rabbi Bob Abrams | | Shiur | Rabbi Bob Abrams | | Shacharit | Levi Dulitz | | Musaf | Simeon Wohlberg | | Code of Jewish Law | Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Cahn | | Seudah Shlishit | Rabbi Levi Feller: Chanukah |
- to Dinah and Seth Marlowe on the engagement of their son Rabbi Noah Marlowe to Dr. Ayelet Abelow, daughter of Rebecca and Dr. Avrumy Abelow of New Rochelle.
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- to Rachel & Jay Jubas on the birth of a grandson, Azriel Zacharia
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Celebrate with the family! Make a donation in their honor and we will send an acknowledgement to the family. Just click here- Senior Challah Sponsor: From an Anonymous Friend
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- Chapel Kiddush - Beth & David Held in celebration of their daughter Shira Held's graduation from Rutgers University! We couldn't be prouder nor happier that we're done paying tuition!
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- Sanctuary Kiddush - Ellen and Richard Weber in memory of Dorothy Katchinoff, Gloria Green in memory of Neal Chassen, Susan and Len Mark in memory of Isadore Mark,Drs. Danielle and Steven Thau in memory of Edwin Thau, Yoni and Stephen Neirman in memory of Daniel Stevens, andJudy and Dr. Ed Jacobson in memory of Meyer Jacobson
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CAS Youth Bubble Mania at the Palace Theater |
Sunday, December 29 - 3:00 PM |
| | Stamford Jewish Experience Friday Night Dinner |
Friday, January 3 - 6:00 PM |
| Israel Teen Fellowship for 10th & 11th Graders |
| Friday, January 10 - 5:30 PM |
| | Monday, January 13 - 11:00 AM |
| 55+ Social Committee Dinner and Show |
Thursday, January 23 - 6:30 PM |
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SAVE THE DATE - SHABBAT WITH FRIENDS OF THE IDF Shabbat, January 11 Join us for a unique experience with FIDF leadership and IDF Soldiers. Hear inspiring stories and spend an unforgettable Shabbat together. Featuring Rabbi Steve Weil, FIDF CEO and IDF Soldiers |
It's Chanukah time! And, of course, our theme of being a source of light in the world is connected perfectly to both the holiday and the Parsha. Last week we saw that no matter how difficult the situation was for Yosef, he never lost faith in G-d and never wavered in his values. This week, we see the payoff - by staying true to who Yosef truly was, he was able to gain the trust even of Pharaoh himself, and achieved the unthinkable position of second in command of the whole empire. This put Yosef in a position to help people and spread the light of goodness. Just like Yosef, in the Chanukah story, the Jewish People fought to stay true to Torah. Chanukah is about emunah and resilience. Light comes out of the darkness. We show our pride in being Jewish by lighting the menorah where everyone can see, and stand proud as Jewish people! In groups this week, we'll be giving out chocolate coins, singing Chanukah songs, and learning the stories of Yosef and of Chanukah! Questions for your Shabbat Table - What can we learn from Yosef about staying hopeful and doing the right thing, even when things are really hard?
- How is Yosef's story similar to the story of Chanukah and the menorah lasting for eight days?
- Yosef used his gift of interpreting dreams to help others, even in prison. What special gifts or talents do you have, and how can you use them to help people?
- How can you be a source of light in the darkness in the world?
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Parent Child Learning is on break this week and will continue next week at new time 6:15-7:15.
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- Israel Advocacy - Sign up for Pens and Swords This group shares links to petitions and information about how everyone can contact political figures and businesses to advocate on behalf of Israel. Most of these actions take under a minute to complete and they keep pressure on policymakers to support Israel and/or drop actions that are detrimental. Please share the link for this group with as many supporters of Israel and the Jewish people as possible. click here
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- Please Support the Mayim Mikvah League Please take a moment to consider making an investment in the future of our beautiful and vital Minnie Manger Marcia Lieberman Mikvah.
We are blessed to be the physical home of the Mikvah, which is vital for the eternal rhythm of Jewish life. Whether a regular user or not, we have all been touched by its impact.
As our community grows and as we approach the end of the secular year and the holiday of Chanukah, there is no better time to re-dedicate ourselves by making a donation to our Mayim Mikvah fund, which sustains the Mikvah annually. Together with our local Rabbis listed we will be sending the letter below in the days ahead to the entire community.
Thank you so much for your support.
Am Yisrael Chai!
May we share good news in the days ahead and witness the full light of Chanukah and redemption speedily and in our days.
With appreciation,
Rabbi Daniel Cohen
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- Important Announcement - Early Shabbat Afternoon Mincha We will offer an early mincha following Kiddush on Shabbat morning. It will meet in the sanctuary. The times are as follows:
- December 28: 12:26 pm
- January 4: 12:30 pm
- January 11: 12:33 pm
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- Shacharit Sunday-Wednesday: 7:00/8:30 AM; Monday-Friday: 6:30/7:30 AM; Tuesday: 6:20/7:30 AM
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- Mincha Sunday-Friday: 4:25 PM
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- Candle Lighting Friday: 4:20 PM
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- Sunday Chanukah: 5 Candles
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- Monday Chanukah: 6 Candles
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- Tuesday Chanukah: 7 Candles, Rosh Chodesh Tevet
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- Wednesday New Year's Day, Rosh Chodesh Tevet, Chanukah: 8 Candles
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- Thursday Chanukah: 8th Day
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We Wish A Speedy Recovery To |
- Tzvi Zev Yosef ben Chana Shulamit
- Raanan Noach ben Slova
- yosef ishai ben miriam
- Sheina Feiga bat Rivka
- Hershel Wolf ben Brucha
- Penina bat Sara
- Rema bat Etta
- Ahron Dovid ben Esther Bayla
- Yetta Liba bat Freidel
- Freidel bat Esther
- Leeba Minna bat Rivka
- Pesach Melech ben Basha
- Chaya Shoshana bat Yehudit
- Nira bat Rachel
| - Sara bat Nira
- Chana Leah bat Esther
- Nadav Ephraim ben Shlomit Leah
- Ariella Maor bat Liba Chaya
- Leah bat Rivka
- Adeline bat Bat Chava
- Shlomo ben Velvel
- Moisha Gedalia
- Nechemiah
- Dorit bat Ora
- Mary
- Miriam Rut bat Chana
- Abokhay Moshe ben Zoya
- Chaya bat Liba
| - Moshe Yitzak ben Raisel Crendel
- Miriam bat Devorah
- אסתר רחל bat רייזל ביילה
- Chaya Rachel bat Carmi Adina
- Penina bat Batya
- Sarah Rochfl bat Paya Etel
- Dov ben Pnina
- Nehama Miriam bat Dvora
- Moshe Gavriel ben Rachel Esther
- Cheryl Sheva bat Gittel Leah
- Sossie Raizel bat Sarah Fraida
- Eliezer Meyer ben Leah
- Calev Natanel ben Sara
- Yitzchak Osher ben Chana Shayva Chaya
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- Ariel Y
- Shani Y
- Tali Y
- Harry B
- Zevi M
- Joreh M
| - Ayden M
- Nathan H
- Noam H
- Yehudit
- Sally K
- Oren L
| - Nathan L
- Jeremy S
- Meni N
- Yaniv H
- Rachel W
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- Explore Israel with the Community Shlicha If you love Israel and want to explore different cities without flying for 12 hours, join UJF Community Shlicha (Israeli Emissary) Eden Refaelovich for an engaging and educational in-person "virtual tour!" Eden will be exploring Jerusalem on Thursday evening, January 9th and Eliat & the Negev Desert on Tuesday evening, January 21st. Tickets are $10 per class. Location will be provided upon registration. Register today at www.ujf.org/VirtualTour.
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- Words to Action: Empowering High School Students & Parents to Address Antisemitism Join UJF Stamford and ADL Connecticut on Wednesday, January 15 at 7PM for two vital workshops at Temple Sinai, Stamford:Jewish High School Students: Learn how to recognize and respond to antisemitism. Parents: Gain tools to support your teens and effectively address incidents. Space is limited—register now at ujf.org/words. This is an important opportunity to empower and protect our community.
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bulletin@cas-stamford.org