Congregation Kneseth Israel in Annapolis, Maryland
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Rabbi Weisblum's Messages
Dear Congregants,
This summer has been remarkable because of so many interesting and diverse experiences I have had. Many of these were eye-opening events. As Oliver Wendel Holmes said, "ones mind once stretched by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions."
Recently I officiated at two weddings. One was at the Rose Haven Beach in Southern Maryland for an Israeli couple, Nedear and Rammi Azulai, and the other in Seattle, Washington for Beth and Alex Rattner. Mazel Tov to both couples.
I've been privileged to begin an exciting new project; that of bringing my great grandfathers and other relatives Shabbat melodies back to life through the production of a special CD. In a professional recording studio, I worked with an eclectic group of talented musicians including violinists, flutists, pianists, guitarists, a trumpet player and an accomplished choir named SHIRA. With G-d’s help, when the album is released, I hope it will be a worthy addition to our rich cultural heritage.
Some of my activities and travels took me to interesting and significant places. On my way to Kutchers Hotel and Conference Center in the New York Catskill Mountains, I stopped at The Living Torah Museum which took me back in time. Artifacts and archaeological gems from the time period of the Beit Hamikdash (Temple) and throughout Jewish history were on display. It was fun and meaningful to come face to face with replicas of animals that are mentioned in the Torah. I was at Kutchers for a Rabbinical Conference, where I presented a talk on issues of conversion.
I have been most pleased about the feedback I am receiving about my weekly Torah YouTube videos. More and more people are listening and making positive comments. We have had many visitors, including tourists that attended the Kneseth Israel minyanim (services) this summer.
As we wind down from the hot summer and our various activities we are beginning to gear up for the High Holidays. The transition is quite dramatic. Plans are already underway. Our choir has been rehearsing and Cantor Paul Freedman who has a wonderful voice is preparing to join us. Various committees and their members, and our staff are all contributing their many talents to help make the High Holidays outstanding and memorable.
A smorgasbord of Jewish education classes is being planned. Classes continue to be available including Wednesday evenings 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. when Partners In Learning Chevruthah program will continue. I hope the Jewish/education classes will serve you well and we will continue to grow and learn together.
L’Shana Tovah
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum, PhD.
September 2011
This summer has been remarkable because of so many interesting and diverse experiences I have had. Many of these were eye-opening events. As Oliver Wendel Holmes said, "ones mind once stretched by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions."
Recently I officiated at two weddings. One was at the Rose Haven Beach in Southern Maryland for an Israeli couple, Nedear and Rammi Azulai, and the other in Seattle, Washington for Beth and Alex Rattner. Mazel Tov to both couples.
I've been privileged to begin an exciting new project; that of bringing my great grandfathers and other relatives Shabbat melodies back to life through the production of a special CD. In a professional recording studio, I worked with an eclectic group of talented musicians including violinists, flutists, pianists, guitarists, a trumpet player and an accomplished choir named SHIRA. With G-d’s help, when the album is released, I hope it will be a worthy addition to our rich cultural heritage.
Some of my activities and travels took me to interesting and significant places. On my way to Kutchers Hotel and Conference Center in the New York Catskill Mountains, I stopped at The Living Torah Museum which took me back in time. Artifacts and archaeological gems from the time period of the Beit Hamikdash (Temple) and throughout Jewish history were on display. It was fun and meaningful to come face to face with replicas of animals that are mentioned in the Torah. I was at Kutchers for a Rabbinical Conference, where I presented a talk on issues of conversion.
I have been most pleased about the feedback I am receiving about my weekly Torah YouTube videos. More and more people are listening and making positive comments. We have had many visitors, including tourists that attended the Kneseth Israel minyanim (services) this summer.
As we wind down from the hot summer and our various activities we are beginning to gear up for the High Holidays. The transition is quite dramatic. Plans are already underway. Our choir has been rehearsing and Cantor Paul Freedman who has a wonderful voice is preparing to join us. Various committees and their members, and our staff are all contributing their many talents to help make the High Holidays outstanding and memorable.
A smorgasbord of Jewish education classes is being planned. Classes continue to be available including Wednesday evenings 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. when Partners In Learning Chevruthah program will continue. I hope the Jewish/education classes will serve you well and we will continue to grow and learn together.
L’Shana Tovah
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum, PhD.
September 2011
Dear Congregants,
Judaism as a tradition is a profound path of spiritual growth and ascent.
The month of July began with fireworks, concerts, and barbeques celebrating Independence Day on the 4th .The U.S.A is 235 years young. We, as a people, recently commemorated Passover and Shavuot, when our ancestors were released from bondage. At Mount Sinai, in the desert we received the holy Torah, amidst thunder and lightning thousands of years ago.
Historically, when the Jews were journeying, each of the twelve tribes had a unique flag to represent themselves. Today, both the American and Israeli flags symbolically remind us of the blessings of our exalted countries. When we see the flags, we pledge allegiance and appreciate the gift of religious freedom. By the way…here's a Jewish fun fact...Did you know the flag of the State of Israel is intended to portray a Star of David on a tallit (the traditional Jewish prayer shawl). Also, the two triangles, one pointing up, the other down, visually suggest, when we turn our hearts and our deeds up to G-d, G-d in turn brings his bounty to the world. Songwriter Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach once said, "G-d is constantly sending down blessings in the world. Are you ready to receive them? Where are you when they arrive? May we always be waiting and ready."
So what’s new? There are many uplifting things happening at Kneseth Israel. Dr. Erica Brown, noted author and Jewish thinker was the scholar-in-residence for the annual Rosenblatt family memorial brunch/lecture. It was a success and everyone enjoyed the program. How timely that her book, In Narrow Places, Daily Inspiration for the Three Weeks and Tishha B'Av was presented prior to the holiday.
During the Three Weeks, we will be showing a film, in our newly refurbished synagogue lounge…thank you Sisterhood! The movie, co-sponsored by the Geliebter Foundation and Torah Umesorah Educational Organization entitled Pikuach Nefesh (Saving Lives) is about two great Jewish heroes. This much acclaimed documentary will be shown in shuls around the globe. I am proud to report that we were selected as one of the locations. (Sorry, no popcorn will be served, it's a fast day.)
Another program you are all cordially invited to watch is my newly launched weekly five-minute Torah Talk YouTube series for your learning and entertainment enjoyment. Keeping up with 21st century technological advances, which are transforming the way that people teach and absorb information includes the goal to spread the wellsprings of Torah to a vast audience. Please click on and forward it to family, friends, and colleagues. Let us remember the heart of Judaism is a partnership between G-d and the people of Israel throughout the generations to heal the world of its ills and to fill it with life in all its dignity.
Heartfelt thanks to our dynamic President, Jody Goldsmith, the board of directors, Sisterhood, staff, and volunteers for participating in our many projects and dreams. Through your skill and enthusiasm, we can reach the highest heights of synagogue life.
The prophet (Malachi 3:20) once said, "And for you who revere G-d’s name, a sun of righteousness will arise with healing in its wings."
Have a great and meaningful summer!
Shalom,
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum, PhD.
August 2011
Judaism as a tradition is a profound path of spiritual growth and ascent.
The month of July began with fireworks, concerts, and barbeques celebrating Independence Day on the 4th .The U.S.A is 235 years young. We, as a people, recently commemorated Passover and Shavuot, when our ancestors were released from bondage. At Mount Sinai, in the desert we received the holy Torah, amidst thunder and lightning thousands of years ago.
Historically, when the Jews were journeying, each of the twelve tribes had a unique flag to represent themselves. Today, both the American and Israeli flags symbolically remind us of the blessings of our exalted countries. When we see the flags, we pledge allegiance and appreciate the gift of religious freedom. By the way…here's a Jewish fun fact...Did you know the flag of the State of Israel is intended to portray a Star of David on a tallit (the traditional Jewish prayer shawl). Also, the two triangles, one pointing up, the other down, visually suggest, when we turn our hearts and our deeds up to G-d, G-d in turn brings his bounty to the world. Songwriter Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach once said, "G-d is constantly sending down blessings in the world. Are you ready to receive them? Where are you when they arrive? May we always be waiting and ready."
So what’s new? There are many uplifting things happening at Kneseth Israel. Dr. Erica Brown, noted author and Jewish thinker was the scholar-in-residence for the annual Rosenblatt family memorial brunch/lecture. It was a success and everyone enjoyed the program. How timely that her book, In Narrow Places, Daily Inspiration for the Three Weeks and Tishha B'Av was presented prior to the holiday.
During the Three Weeks, we will be showing a film, in our newly refurbished synagogue lounge…thank you Sisterhood! The movie, co-sponsored by the Geliebter Foundation and Torah Umesorah Educational Organization entitled Pikuach Nefesh (Saving Lives) is about two great Jewish heroes. This much acclaimed documentary will be shown in shuls around the globe. I am proud to report that we were selected as one of the locations. (Sorry, no popcorn will be served, it's a fast day.)
Another program you are all cordially invited to watch is my newly launched weekly five-minute Torah Talk YouTube series for your learning and entertainment enjoyment. Keeping up with 21st century technological advances, which are transforming the way that people teach and absorb information includes the goal to spread the wellsprings of Torah to a vast audience. Please click on and forward it to family, friends, and colleagues. Let us remember the heart of Judaism is a partnership between G-d and the people of Israel throughout the generations to heal the world of its ills and to fill it with life in all its dignity.
Heartfelt thanks to our dynamic President, Jody Goldsmith, the board of directors, Sisterhood, staff, and volunteers for participating in our many projects and dreams. Through your skill and enthusiasm, we can reach the highest heights of synagogue life.
The prophet (Malachi 3:20) once said, "And for you who revere G-d’s name, a sun of righteousness will arise with healing in its wings."
Have a great and meaningful summer!
Shalom,
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum, PhD.
August 2011
Dear congregants,
As I compose this bulletin message, interestingly it is the afternoon of June 21st, 1:22pm and on the calendar according to the equinox, summer begins. The trees and flowers are now in full seasonal bloom, the seeds have burst forth from water, and sunshine.
"A single act of kindness, throws out roots in all new directions and the roots spring up and make new trees." said Amelia Earhart, a pioneer American pilot and author, whose extensive travels are legendary. Our holy Torah is compared to the tree of life with unique roots and branches for each person; as is written in Proverbs 3: those who uphold and follow its ways, “All the Torahs paths lead to peace."
Through a generous grant from the Harry and Jane Fischel Family Foundation, we received 23 copies of Artscroll's newest release “English Tanach: The Jewish Bible with Insights from Classical Rabbinic Thought." During our festival of Shavuot four-hour evening of intensive learning, we studied from these "gifts". My topic, The “How’s and Whys of Jewish Conversion, Historical Perspectives, Family Dynamics, Legal Issues, and Mystical Dimensions” was well received. We noted that Biblical Ruth, a prominent Shavuot heroine and linked to King David and King Solomon had a fascinating destiny and family tree. When a colleague of mine heard about this specific topic, he asked me to represent it at a major two-day rabbinical convention during the summer in New Jersey. I am converting my presentation into a power point presentation and hope it will generate some 21st century seeds for thought. I will also be attending the International Conference on Jewish Genealogy (IAJGS), being held August 14th-19th in Washington, DC (for Information visit www.iajgs.org.) Our synagogue is planning to host one of the speakers in the future as scholar-in-residence to give us some practical pointers on researching one's roots.
Gary Rosenblatt, editor and chief of the, Jewish Week, wrote a delightful article about growing up in Annapolis and at Congregation Kneseth Israel in particular. The re-printed article appears in this Kolenu. He traced his memories and roots, keeping the national Jewish spotlight on our synagogue family.
In our Kneseth Israel library, you can also read a fascinating May 2011 article. This Jewish magazine ZMAN, has an in-depth coverage interview with Chanoch Wisner. This former US Navy Seal turned Torah Jew shared insights about the elite commando unit that killed Osama bin Laden, as well as his fascinating story about growing spiritually. Some of our Naval Academy friends and mid-shipman who attend our synagogue shared their perspectives with me on this monumental event and the potential historical ripple effects.
Yes, our community, the capital of Maryland, attracts a lot of vacationers and visitors for fun, as well as business. Proudly, they can always find daily services, and warm greetings. New people discover us all the time. For example, Dr. Sern from Efrat, Israel, an internationally renowned bio-optic specialist spent a delightful Shabbat Parsha Naso with us and then went on to attend a conference in Washington, DC where he was a keynote speaker for researchers and physicians. Another example is the Fried family, from Chestnut Ridge, New York , who drove down for the festival of Shavuot with their six lively children, to have a much needed holiday vacation after a tragic car accident and death of their beloved mother/grandmother a few months before. Unanimously, whatever the visitor’s circumstances, we always receive heartwarming rave reviews. The smiles and networking make Kneseth Israel an anchor of community activity and spiritual outreach. How proud we should all be for our 104 years of being a fantastic synagogue and our exemplary local, national, and international reputation.
Wishing you and yours a wonderful summer, and may we continue to grow from strength to strength.
Shalom,
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum
July 2011
As I compose this bulletin message, interestingly it is the afternoon of June 21st, 1:22pm and on the calendar according to the equinox, summer begins. The trees and flowers are now in full seasonal bloom, the seeds have burst forth from water, and sunshine.
"A single act of kindness, throws out roots in all new directions and the roots spring up and make new trees." said Amelia Earhart, a pioneer American pilot and author, whose extensive travels are legendary. Our holy Torah is compared to the tree of life with unique roots and branches for each person; as is written in Proverbs 3: those who uphold and follow its ways, “All the Torahs paths lead to peace."
Through a generous grant from the Harry and Jane Fischel Family Foundation, we received 23 copies of Artscroll's newest release “English Tanach: The Jewish Bible with Insights from Classical Rabbinic Thought." During our festival of Shavuot four-hour evening of intensive learning, we studied from these "gifts". My topic, The “How’s and Whys of Jewish Conversion, Historical Perspectives, Family Dynamics, Legal Issues, and Mystical Dimensions” was well received. We noted that Biblical Ruth, a prominent Shavuot heroine and linked to King David and King Solomon had a fascinating destiny and family tree. When a colleague of mine heard about this specific topic, he asked me to represent it at a major two-day rabbinical convention during the summer in New Jersey. I am converting my presentation into a power point presentation and hope it will generate some 21st century seeds for thought. I will also be attending the International Conference on Jewish Genealogy (IAJGS), being held August 14th-19th in Washington, DC (for Information visit www.iajgs.org.) Our synagogue is planning to host one of the speakers in the future as scholar-in-residence to give us some practical pointers on researching one's roots.
Gary Rosenblatt, editor and chief of the, Jewish Week, wrote a delightful article about growing up in Annapolis and at Congregation Kneseth Israel in particular. The re-printed article appears in this Kolenu. He traced his memories and roots, keeping the national Jewish spotlight on our synagogue family.
In our Kneseth Israel library, you can also read a fascinating May 2011 article. This Jewish magazine ZMAN, has an in-depth coverage interview with Chanoch Wisner. This former US Navy Seal turned Torah Jew shared insights about the elite commando unit that killed Osama bin Laden, as well as his fascinating story about growing spiritually. Some of our Naval Academy friends and mid-shipman who attend our synagogue shared their perspectives with me on this monumental event and the potential historical ripple effects.
Yes, our community, the capital of Maryland, attracts a lot of vacationers and visitors for fun, as well as business. Proudly, they can always find daily services, and warm greetings. New people discover us all the time. For example, Dr. Sern from Efrat, Israel, an internationally renowned bio-optic specialist spent a delightful Shabbat Parsha Naso with us and then went on to attend a conference in Washington, DC where he was a keynote speaker for researchers and physicians. Another example is the Fried family, from Chestnut Ridge, New York , who drove down for the festival of Shavuot with their six lively children, to have a much needed holiday vacation after a tragic car accident and death of their beloved mother/grandmother a few months before. Unanimously, whatever the visitor’s circumstances, we always receive heartwarming rave reviews. The smiles and networking make Kneseth Israel an anchor of community activity and spiritual outreach. How proud we should all be for our 104 years of being a fantastic synagogue and our exemplary local, national, and international reputation.
Wishing you and yours a wonderful summer, and may we continue to grow from strength to strength.
Shalom,
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum
July 2011
Dear congregants,
As I sit down to write this column, the calendar date is Pesach Sheini, known traditionally as the Second Chance Passover. There are no Matzah requirements and you don’t need to start re-cleaning your house. It is a good day however, to re-read the Kolenu for important dates, attend a new class at Kneseth Israel and continue counting the Omer as we head towards the 49th day, when we will celebrate the Shavuot Holiday that commemorates the receiving of the Torah at Mount Sinai.
As the sun set on Thursday, May 19, 2011, we remembered the yartzheit of the great tzaddik Rabbi Meir Baal Haness, who lived and died in the Northern part of Israel. According to the Talmud, he performed many miracles and good deeds for the world. We are blessed to have many people who also do mitzvot for the world living right here in Annapolis. This dedicated group of synagogue movers and shakers (and you know who you are) are planning exciting programs to expand our minds; they also are working on physical improvements of the building. We have acquired 40 new Shabbat Companion books in the sanctuary to make everyone feel more welcome and comfortable.
I’d like to announce a volunteer Partner-in-Torah program in which I am so pleased to be a participant. This national outreach program matches two people from anywhere in America by phone for a one-hour weekly session of Jewish learning. My partner, an engineer from Texas, who is married with two children, is a beginner of Judaic studies. We are studying “Duties of the Heart” by Rabbi Ibn Pekudah of 10th century, and I find this a very rewarding undertaking. I hope that he and his family will one day visit us here in Annapolis. If you would like to take part in the program, either as teacher or student, see the enclosed flyer.
Please join us each morning after Shacharit for a lesson on Lashon Hara, (harmful speech.) Start your day off right by studying two laws a day and promoting the virtues of positivity. Look for classes on Ethics of the Fathers and a new Jewish Chess Club meeting on Shabbat afternoons before the Shabbat 3rd Seudah (meal) in the Allen Reiter Auditorium. Please join us for a free intensive four hour Shavuot Learning Session on the How’s and Why’s of Jewish Conversion.” We will cover the following topics: Historical Perspective; Emotional and Family Dynamics; Legal Issues and Mystical Dimensions.
There are certain events that are divinely manifested within our lives which never cease to amaze me. Some don’t reveal themselves immediately but become apparent only later. This is one of those stories that is not apparent! Several years ago during a week-long Caribbean Kosher Cruise, where I was the Scholar in-Residence, I had the pleasure to befriend a brilliant man named Dr. Daryl Temkin. Dr. Temkin is the founder and director of the Israel Education Institute and the Israel Institute for Alternative Energy Advancement. On this past Wednesday, May 18th, I learned that Dr. Temkin, along with three other outstanding supporters of Israel, and the legendary singer Pat Boone, were honored in Los Angeles at a very important fundraising event. Proceeds from the dinner supported construction of a new protected emergency department at the B’nai Zion Medical Center in Haifa. This amazing new 450-bed facility will be fully equipped to deal with any nuclear, biological or chemical attack that constantly threatens daily life in Israel. As part of the tribute to these four outstanding honorees, unbeknownst to me, they were given a copy of my book, Ruth Talk: Questions and Answers on the Book of Ruth. Why were they given the book? Due to my accident several years ago, the West Coast book tour for Ruth Talk was cancelled and as a result, my California host was left with several cases of books. The host was on the B’nai Zion fundraising committee and thought how appropriate it would be to give Ruth Talk as a table prize and gift to the honorees, especially since the event fell just a few weeks before Shavuot. The book is dedicated to my beloved parents, Rabbi and Rebbetzin Chaim Naftali Weisblum of Haifa, where they have led and sheltered a modern orthodox community for 43 years, the very same city that the state-of-the-art Emergency Room will also help protect. And that is how my friend, Dr. Temkin obtained his own copy of Ruth Talk. Often, our connections to each other through G-d are what make our lives meaningful, interesting and sometimes challenging.
I am looking forward to reconnecting with my family when I travel to Israel for simchas and to celebrate my daughter Bracha’s graduation as she passed her nursing boards. She received her master’s degree in nursing. My son Meir is joining me and we will spend much needed family time together. As always I ask that you keep positive thoughts about our Israeli brothers and sisters and pray for continued peace here and throughout the world. I Look forward to share Shabbat dinner with you and your family on June 17 in Kneseth Israel.
Sincerely,
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum
June 2011
As I sit down to write this column, the calendar date is Pesach Sheini, known traditionally as the Second Chance Passover. There are no Matzah requirements and you don’t need to start re-cleaning your house. It is a good day however, to re-read the Kolenu for important dates, attend a new class at Kneseth Israel and continue counting the Omer as we head towards the 49th day, when we will celebrate the Shavuot Holiday that commemorates the receiving of the Torah at Mount Sinai.
As the sun set on Thursday, May 19, 2011, we remembered the yartzheit of the great tzaddik Rabbi Meir Baal Haness, who lived and died in the Northern part of Israel. According to the Talmud, he performed many miracles and good deeds for the world. We are blessed to have many people who also do mitzvot for the world living right here in Annapolis. This dedicated group of synagogue movers and shakers (and you know who you are) are planning exciting programs to expand our minds; they also are working on physical improvements of the building. We have acquired 40 new Shabbat Companion books in the sanctuary to make everyone feel more welcome and comfortable.
I’d like to announce a volunteer Partner-in-Torah program in which I am so pleased to be a participant. This national outreach program matches two people from anywhere in America by phone for a one-hour weekly session of Jewish learning. My partner, an engineer from Texas, who is married with two children, is a beginner of Judaic studies. We are studying “Duties of the Heart” by Rabbi Ibn Pekudah of 10th century, and I find this a very rewarding undertaking. I hope that he and his family will one day visit us here in Annapolis. If you would like to take part in the program, either as teacher or student, see the enclosed flyer.
Please join us each morning after Shacharit for a lesson on Lashon Hara, (harmful speech.) Start your day off right by studying two laws a day and promoting the virtues of positivity. Look for classes on Ethics of the Fathers and a new Jewish Chess Club meeting on Shabbat afternoons before the Shabbat 3rd Seudah (meal) in the Allen Reiter Auditorium. Please join us for a free intensive four hour Shavuot Learning Session on the How’s and Why’s of Jewish Conversion.” We will cover the following topics: Historical Perspective; Emotional and Family Dynamics; Legal Issues and Mystical Dimensions.
There are certain events that are divinely manifested within our lives which never cease to amaze me. Some don’t reveal themselves immediately but become apparent only later. This is one of those stories that is not apparent! Several years ago during a week-long Caribbean Kosher Cruise, where I was the Scholar in-Residence, I had the pleasure to befriend a brilliant man named Dr. Daryl Temkin. Dr. Temkin is the founder and director of the Israel Education Institute and the Israel Institute for Alternative Energy Advancement. On this past Wednesday, May 18th, I learned that Dr. Temkin, along with three other outstanding supporters of Israel, and the legendary singer Pat Boone, were honored in Los Angeles at a very important fundraising event. Proceeds from the dinner supported construction of a new protected emergency department at the B’nai Zion Medical Center in Haifa. This amazing new 450-bed facility will be fully equipped to deal with any nuclear, biological or chemical attack that constantly threatens daily life in Israel. As part of the tribute to these four outstanding honorees, unbeknownst to me, they were given a copy of my book, Ruth Talk: Questions and Answers on the Book of Ruth. Why were they given the book? Due to my accident several years ago, the West Coast book tour for Ruth Talk was cancelled and as a result, my California host was left with several cases of books. The host was on the B’nai Zion fundraising committee and thought how appropriate it would be to give Ruth Talk as a table prize and gift to the honorees, especially since the event fell just a few weeks before Shavuot. The book is dedicated to my beloved parents, Rabbi and Rebbetzin Chaim Naftali Weisblum of Haifa, where they have led and sheltered a modern orthodox community for 43 years, the very same city that the state-of-the-art Emergency Room will also help protect. And that is how my friend, Dr. Temkin obtained his own copy of Ruth Talk. Often, our connections to each other through G-d are what make our lives meaningful, interesting and sometimes challenging.
I am looking forward to reconnecting with my family when I travel to Israel for simchas and to celebrate my daughter Bracha’s graduation as she passed her nursing boards. She received her master’s degree in nursing. My son Meir is joining me and we will spend much needed family time together. As always I ask that you keep positive thoughts about our Israeli brothers and sisters and pray for continued peace here and throughout the world. I Look forward to share Shabbat dinner with you and your family on June 17 in Kneseth Israel.
Sincerely,
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum
June 2011
Dear congregants,
Happy Passover Blessing you all with a real taste of freedom and the most beautiful holiday. Our Passover communal seder was complete with songs, explanations, rituals, and gourmet cuisine, (Plus some jokes!) Our doors are open daily for learning, laughing, and sharing. We had a Jewish fun facts contest. Robert (Bob) Weigert, our in house co-chef guessed correctly that world largest Matazh ball is 26 pound and 18 inches across.
All spiritual practice demands a turning inward to find out who you really are and to know yourself. Many disciplines require periods of withdrawal to allow for this inward discovery free of external distractions and diversions. In the Western tradition, Moses led a band of slaves out of Egypt into the Sinai desert to freely engage in such practices without external impositions. There they shed their slave mentality to become free. The journey from enslavement to personal freedom is found in all spiritual traditions. The Sinai experience added a mission to spread this message of freedom to the world. As the prophet Isaiah wrote: "You are to be a nation of priests (i.e. teachers), a light unto the world." This path teaches us how to become free of the distractions, threats, and temptations of the world that surrounds us daily. Rather than retreat from the world, we use our troubles and fears as the prompts and props to propel us into freedom. Our focus is to develop our spiritual side amidst any turmoil. Self-transformation is a Passover theme that can help achieve balance, harmony, and joy. At Kneseth Israel we are committed to excellence in all that we do. Our synagogue home can provide you with a golden opportunity to engage in classes, programs, and activities that move you closer to G-d and Jewish values. A newly released IMAX movie, Born to be Loved, Born to be Free is in 3D and quite a remarkable story about the rescue and saving of endangered species (orangutans and elephants) in the wilderness., one life at a time This film is in sync with the Passover spirit and I found many interesting parallels to the travails of our survival throughout history. Another fun DVD newly released is a restored version of the Cecil B. DeMille epic film, the Ten Commandments with Charlton Heston. Originally filmed in Sinai and Egypt it helps bring alive the saga.
Additionally, a great book was added to our synagogue library, “The Pathway of Improvement” by Mordechai Riech. It is the study of personal growth and moral discipline that can lead to personal happiness. Striving for improvement of one’s character is very important, being a focal point of one’s life long existence upon this plant.
Sincerely,
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum
May 2011
Happy Passover Blessing you all with a real taste of freedom and the most beautiful holiday. Our Passover communal seder was complete with songs, explanations, rituals, and gourmet cuisine, (Plus some jokes!) Our doors are open daily for learning, laughing, and sharing. We had a Jewish fun facts contest. Robert (Bob) Weigert, our in house co-chef guessed correctly that world largest Matazh ball is 26 pound and 18 inches across.
All spiritual practice demands a turning inward to find out who you really are and to know yourself. Many disciplines require periods of withdrawal to allow for this inward discovery free of external distractions and diversions. In the Western tradition, Moses led a band of slaves out of Egypt into the Sinai desert to freely engage in such practices without external impositions. There they shed their slave mentality to become free. The journey from enslavement to personal freedom is found in all spiritual traditions. The Sinai experience added a mission to spread this message of freedom to the world. As the prophet Isaiah wrote: "You are to be a nation of priests (i.e. teachers), a light unto the world." This path teaches us how to become free of the distractions, threats, and temptations of the world that surrounds us daily. Rather than retreat from the world, we use our troubles and fears as the prompts and props to propel us into freedom. Our focus is to develop our spiritual side amidst any turmoil. Self-transformation is a Passover theme that can help achieve balance, harmony, and joy. At Kneseth Israel we are committed to excellence in all that we do. Our synagogue home can provide you with a golden opportunity to engage in classes, programs, and activities that move you closer to G-d and Jewish values. A newly released IMAX movie, Born to be Loved, Born to be Free is in 3D and quite a remarkable story about the rescue and saving of endangered species (orangutans and elephants) in the wilderness., one life at a time This film is in sync with the Passover spirit and I found many interesting parallels to the travails of our survival throughout history. Another fun DVD newly released is a restored version of the Cecil B. DeMille epic film, the Ten Commandments with Charlton Heston. Originally filmed in Sinai and Egypt it helps bring alive the saga.
Additionally, a great book was added to our synagogue library, “The Pathway of Improvement” by Mordechai Riech. It is the study of personal growth and moral discipline that can lead to personal happiness. Striving for improvement of one’s character is very important, being a focal point of one’s life long existence upon this plant.
Sincerely,
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum
May 2011
Dear Congregants,
When Abraham Lincoln ran for Congress in 1848 he issued a famous quote. His opponent at that time, Stephen A. Douglas, was the key note speaker who spoke his political opinions and future plans for almost 90 minutes. Then it was Abraham Lincoln’s turn and he spoke for one minute saying, "Until now I always suspected that my opponent was a fool, now he has confirmed that beyond doubt" and then Lincoln sat down.
My dear friends, so many "media experts" prognosticating Egypt’s future...but the question is what credentials and experiences those people have. In the Ethics of our Fathers it is stated, "Rabbi Shimon says: all my life I was raised among the sages and I found the best traits and guidance of life is silence". Some recall the Iran revolution 22 years ago and tried to compare that to the Egypt of 2011 while others think that the Muslim Brotherhood will be good for their people but bad for the world. Who is right?
Our peoples historical fate always seems to be somehow intertwined with Egypt. Our ancestors Sarah and Abraham fled to Egypt to avoid hunger in the Land of Israel. Sarah was taken to the harem of the Pharaoh but was miraculously saved by Divine intervention and Abraham leaves Egypt laden with wealth and honor. Joseph is sold into slavery by his brothers and is carried down to Egypt. He miraculously again rises from the pit of the dungeon to become the viceroy of Egypt. During the famine years he develops Egypt into the major economic force of the ancient world. The Jewish family of Jacob, at that time only 70 strong, arrives in Egypt and settles in the land of Goshen. There they prosper and multiply greatly for 130 years before being enslaved by a new Egyptian Pharaoh who did not know Joseph. After 80 years of slavery, the Jews are redeemed from Egyptian bondage by G-d and through Moses the Egyptian army is drowned at Yam Suf. The Jews eventually settle in their Land of Israel and throughout First Temple times maintained an ambivalent relationship of alternating periods of peace, war, friendship and wariness with their large and powerful southern neighbor. During the latter century of the existence of the First Temple the kingdom of Judah maintained an alliance with Egypt as a protection against the aggressions of its northern neighbors, Assyria and then Babylonia. But Egypt proved to be a broken reed as far as the security of the Jewish kingdom was concerned. It did not come to the aid of Jerusalem when Nebuchadnezzar attacked the kingdom and eventually sacked Jerusalem, burned the Temple and exiled the Jews from their homeland. Egypt itself also suffered defeat at the hands of Nebuchadnezzar. The prophet Jeremiah’s message was consistent: Do not ever depend upon Egypt. But true prophets are often ignored. In Second Temple times there was a large Jewish community living in Egypt, mainly in Alexandria. The community was overly proud and wealthy. It even housed a Temple that competed with the Temple in Jerusalem. The Ptolemaic Empire which Egypt represented eventually succumbed to Roman rule. After the destruction of the Second Temple the Alexandrian community took on an even greater importance. But it was also the scene of fierce rebellions against Rome and later battles with the Greek Christians occurred. After the fourth century the community declined in numbers and influence. With the advent of Islam a Jewish community again arose especially in Fostadt (Old Cairo). Maimonides lived in Fostadt in the twelfth century and was the physician to the famous emperor Saladin. Great rabbinic scholars such as Rabbi Radvaz headed the Jewish community. Jewish Egypt was a hotbed of Sabbatean false messianism and also of Karaite influences. The Jews there maintained a low profile, were treated as dhimmis (inferior citizens) but nevertheless were able to maintain their traditional way of life.
With the arrival of England and France and their colonial and imperialist outlook and the construction of the Suez Canal in the nineteenth century Egypt became a Western colony with puppet rulers. In 1948 it led the charge of Arab armies determined to crush the nascent Jewish state in its infancy. Abdel Gamel Nasser came to power in 1952 and with Soviet backing attempted to destroy Israel by terrorism and war. He was defeated in the 1956 Sinai campaign and even more decisively so in the 1967 Six Day war. However, Egypt continued its aggression against Israel in terrorist activities and a war of attrition on the banks of the Suez Canal. In 1973, Anwar Sadat, Nasser’s successor launched the Yom Kippur War which ended yet again in Egyptian military defeat. But in 1979 wars finally ended and Sadat entered into negotiations with Israel which resulted in the Camp David peace agreement. Sadat was rewarded for his peaceful vision by being assassinated by his own palace guard. Hosni Mubarak succeeded Sadat and has maintained a very cold peace with Israel for the past thirty years. Now Mubarak appears to be done and again Israel looks anxiously south at Egypt and what direction it will take. The words of the prophet Jeremiah still echoes in our ears. As far as Egypt is concerned nothing is certain. It still remains a broken but dangerous reed.
Soon we are going to celebrate Purim. And yes, the story of modern media prophesy matches in many ways the story of Purim.
Happy Purim,
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum
March 2011
When Abraham Lincoln ran for Congress in 1848 he issued a famous quote. His opponent at that time, Stephen A. Douglas, was the key note speaker who spoke his political opinions and future plans for almost 90 minutes. Then it was Abraham Lincoln’s turn and he spoke for one minute saying, "Until now I always suspected that my opponent was a fool, now he has confirmed that beyond doubt" and then Lincoln sat down.
My dear friends, so many "media experts" prognosticating Egypt’s future...but the question is what credentials and experiences those people have. In the Ethics of our Fathers it is stated, "Rabbi Shimon says: all my life I was raised among the sages and I found the best traits and guidance of life is silence". Some recall the Iran revolution 22 years ago and tried to compare that to the Egypt of 2011 while others think that the Muslim Brotherhood will be good for their people but bad for the world. Who is right?
Our peoples historical fate always seems to be somehow intertwined with Egypt. Our ancestors Sarah and Abraham fled to Egypt to avoid hunger in the Land of Israel. Sarah was taken to the harem of the Pharaoh but was miraculously saved by Divine intervention and Abraham leaves Egypt laden with wealth and honor. Joseph is sold into slavery by his brothers and is carried down to Egypt. He miraculously again rises from the pit of the dungeon to become the viceroy of Egypt. During the famine years he develops Egypt into the major economic force of the ancient world. The Jewish family of Jacob, at that time only 70 strong, arrives in Egypt and settles in the land of Goshen. There they prosper and multiply greatly for 130 years before being enslaved by a new Egyptian Pharaoh who did not know Joseph. After 80 years of slavery, the Jews are redeemed from Egyptian bondage by G-d and through Moses the Egyptian army is drowned at Yam Suf. The Jews eventually settle in their Land of Israel and throughout First Temple times maintained an ambivalent relationship of alternating periods of peace, war, friendship and wariness with their large and powerful southern neighbor. During the latter century of the existence of the First Temple the kingdom of Judah maintained an alliance with Egypt as a protection against the aggressions of its northern neighbors, Assyria and then Babylonia. But Egypt proved to be a broken reed as far as the security of the Jewish kingdom was concerned. It did not come to the aid of Jerusalem when Nebuchadnezzar attacked the kingdom and eventually sacked Jerusalem, burned the Temple and exiled the Jews from their homeland. Egypt itself also suffered defeat at the hands of Nebuchadnezzar. The prophet Jeremiah’s message was consistent: Do not ever depend upon Egypt. But true prophets are often ignored. In Second Temple times there was a large Jewish community living in Egypt, mainly in Alexandria. The community was overly proud and wealthy. It even housed a Temple that competed with the Temple in Jerusalem. The Ptolemaic Empire which Egypt represented eventually succumbed to Roman rule. After the destruction of the Second Temple the Alexandrian community took on an even greater importance. But it was also the scene of fierce rebellions against Rome and later battles with the Greek Christians occurred. After the fourth century the community declined in numbers and influence. With the advent of Islam a Jewish community again arose especially in Fostadt (Old Cairo). Maimonides lived in Fostadt in the twelfth century and was the physician to the famous emperor Saladin. Great rabbinic scholars such as Rabbi Radvaz headed the Jewish community. Jewish Egypt was a hotbed of Sabbatean false messianism and also of Karaite influences. The Jews there maintained a low profile, were treated as dhimmis (inferior citizens) but nevertheless were able to maintain their traditional way of life.
With the arrival of England and France and their colonial and imperialist outlook and the construction of the Suez Canal in the nineteenth century Egypt became a Western colony with puppet rulers. In 1948 it led the charge of Arab armies determined to crush the nascent Jewish state in its infancy. Abdel Gamel Nasser came to power in 1952 and with Soviet backing attempted to destroy Israel by terrorism and war. He was defeated in the 1956 Sinai campaign and even more decisively so in the 1967 Six Day war. However, Egypt continued its aggression against Israel in terrorist activities and a war of attrition on the banks of the Suez Canal. In 1973, Anwar Sadat, Nasser’s successor launched the Yom Kippur War which ended yet again in Egyptian military defeat. But in 1979 wars finally ended and Sadat entered into negotiations with Israel which resulted in the Camp David peace agreement. Sadat was rewarded for his peaceful vision by being assassinated by his own palace guard. Hosni Mubarak succeeded Sadat and has maintained a very cold peace with Israel for the past thirty years. Now Mubarak appears to be done and again Israel looks anxiously south at Egypt and what direction it will take. The words of the prophet Jeremiah still echoes in our ears. As far as Egypt is concerned nothing is certain. It still remains a broken but dangerous reed.
Soon we are going to celebrate Purim. And yes, the story of modern media prophesy matches in many ways the story of Purim.
Happy Purim,
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum
March 2011
Dear Congregants,
I want to wish each and every one of you continued good health for the remainder of the snowy winter. The snow doesn’t seem to have stood in the way of you trekking in inclement weather to attend shul events. Recently, the media reported that Israel experienced the largest snowstorm in twenty years. Six and a half feet of snow fell on Mount Hermon in Northern Israel. Thankfully, we weren’t tested in Annapolis with over six feet of snow to see who was really Moser Nefesh (Putting oneself aside to do the will of G-d) to join the Minyanim (services), classes, and celebrations.
We derive from the book of Exodus a classic Yiddish expression “May you live to be 120.” This is related to the life span of biblical leader Moses. Hopefully, like Moses we are in this world with a mission, and day after day we have no idea how situations will ultimately resolve themselves. Our task is to pray to the Almighty for heavenly assistance and not to be fearful. How often do we see that “things work themselves out.” For instance, our scholarly commentators historically recorded, when the Israelites ran out of Egypt and found themselves cornered by the Egyptians at the Sea of Reeds, Nachshon Ben Aminadav strengthened his faith in G-d and then took a plunge into the water. Nachshon’s heroic act was beloved to the Almighty and we see how “When we do our best, G-d does the rest.”
Our beautiful heritage also teaches, “Where there is life - there is hope.” To commemorate Tu B’ Shvat, the Rosh Hashana of the trees, our shul planted a tree in Israel to participate in the rebuilding of over five million trees lost in a tragic fire last month. Locally, our Tu B’ Shvat Sabbath Kiddush, had a great turnout with over seventy people. Additionally, some college students on winter break joined our fruitful celebrations. Gussie Levine, in her one hundredth year of life was just blessed with completing her third children’s book, The Miracle Leaf. I shared this story with the Hebrew School children because it was appropriate for the Tu B’ Shvat holiday and the theme was relevant to the Torah Portion about miracles. In a nutshell, the story describes a majestically colored leaf that awed all who saw it. However, it fell off the tree yet a miracle happened. The leaf regenerated into a new plant. The children marveled at the miracle and it opened the classroom up for discussion on biblical miracles; the ten plagues in Egypt, the splitting of the sea, and the miracle of food and water that occurred while the Israelites wandered in the desert for forty years. We concluded that miracles are all around us, even today. According to the biblical account of creation, fruits, trees, and flowers were created on day three. After G-d created each day, He said: “It is good.” Come to our Monday evening adult education program and find out how Mondays are very good! Moreover, our Friday-Saturday services are a great way to start the weekend. On Sunday, our Hebrew conversational classes are an exciting linguistic journey. Everyone is welcome.
Congratulations to Jody Goldsmith, our newly elected President. He is relentlessly committed to building our shul with sincere enthusiasm and joy (Notice that his name has the word Joy in it.) I would like to recognize outgoing President Lore Singerman and her family for all their dedication and contributions to Jewish life and learning throughout the years. Thank you board members, sisterhood, office staff, and volunteers for all your time and leadership. Your efforts and team spirit help further Kneseth Israel’s mission and ongoing success, and it is greatly appreciated!
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum
February 2011
I want to wish each and every one of you continued good health for the remainder of the snowy winter. The snow doesn’t seem to have stood in the way of you trekking in inclement weather to attend shul events. Recently, the media reported that Israel experienced the largest snowstorm in twenty years. Six and a half feet of snow fell on Mount Hermon in Northern Israel. Thankfully, we weren’t tested in Annapolis with over six feet of snow to see who was really Moser Nefesh (Putting oneself aside to do the will of G-d) to join the Minyanim (services), classes, and celebrations.
We derive from the book of Exodus a classic Yiddish expression “May you live to be 120.” This is related to the life span of biblical leader Moses. Hopefully, like Moses we are in this world with a mission, and day after day we have no idea how situations will ultimately resolve themselves. Our task is to pray to the Almighty for heavenly assistance and not to be fearful. How often do we see that “things work themselves out.” For instance, our scholarly commentators historically recorded, when the Israelites ran out of Egypt and found themselves cornered by the Egyptians at the Sea of Reeds, Nachshon Ben Aminadav strengthened his faith in G-d and then took a plunge into the water. Nachshon’s heroic act was beloved to the Almighty and we see how “When we do our best, G-d does the rest.”
Our beautiful heritage also teaches, “Where there is life - there is hope.” To commemorate Tu B’ Shvat, the Rosh Hashana of the trees, our shul planted a tree in Israel to participate in the rebuilding of over five million trees lost in a tragic fire last month. Locally, our Tu B’ Shvat Sabbath Kiddush, had a great turnout with over seventy people. Additionally, some college students on winter break joined our fruitful celebrations. Gussie Levine, in her one hundredth year of life was just blessed with completing her third children’s book, The Miracle Leaf. I shared this story with the Hebrew School children because it was appropriate for the Tu B’ Shvat holiday and the theme was relevant to the Torah Portion about miracles. In a nutshell, the story describes a majestically colored leaf that awed all who saw it. However, it fell off the tree yet a miracle happened. The leaf regenerated into a new plant. The children marveled at the miracle and it opened the classroom up for discussion on biblical miracles; the ten plagues in Egypt, the splitting of the sea, and the miracle of food and water that occurred while the Israelites wandered in the desert for forty years. We concluded that miracles are all around us, even today. According to the biblical account of creation, fruits, trees, and flowers were created on day three. After G-d created each day, He said: “It is good.” Come to our Monday evening adult education program and find out how Mondays are very good! Moreover, our Friday-Saturday services are a great way to start the weekend. On Sunday, our Hebrew conversational classes are an exciting linguistic journey. Everyone is welcome.
Congratulations to Jody Goldsmith, our newly elected President. He is relentlessly committed to building our shul with sincere enthusiasm and joy (Notice that his name has the word Joy in it.) I would like to recognize outgoing President Lore Singerman and her family for all their dedication and contributions to Jewish life and learning throughout the years. Thank you board members, sisterhood, office staff, and volunteers for all your time and leadership. Your efforts and team spirit help further Kneseth Israel’s mission and ongoing success, and it is greatly appreciated!
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum
February 2011
Dear Congregants,
“Our Annapolis Chanukah celebration and communal party was a tremendous success with over 100 people enjoying lights, latkes, and laughs. We had first class entertainment; our delightful Kneseth Israel Hebrew School children’s production was the most adorable children's skit I have seen in a long time! We all loved it! Our choir sang beautifully, accompanied by Sean Lane, a professional pianist. The amazing and humorous magic of Eric Henning mesmerized all. Everyone was delighted with the scrumptious and bountiful dinner and certainly no one left hungry! Thanks to Lynn Reiter Kay for chairing this great event, to Chef Yehudah Cohen and his assistants Dore & Steve Lebowitz, Marshall Mentz, and to all the volunteers who created a super holiday. (Please see the email below from the magician Eric Henning - quite a bit of praise from someone who performed at the White House just six weeks ago.)
While we lit the candles here, in Haifa, Israel, a tragedy occurred within the vicinity of my parents’ home. The worst fire in the history of Israel destroyed thousands of acres of forestland, burned down numerous homes including the devastation of an entire kibbutz, and has tragically claimed the lives of 41 people. Not only is this Israel’s worst fire ever, it is also the largest loss of life in a single incident in Israel’s history, including natural disasters and terror attacks.
In the case of a disaster like this, it sometimes helps to draw strength from any positive aspects that may arise from the situation. We are fortunate in that there are a number of positives that serve to lighten the heavy burden caused by this tragedy. The first positive aspect is the response by outside countries to the call sent out for help. Prime Minister Netanyahu succeeded in overcoming a classic Israeli weakness when he acknowledged that Israel cannot do this on her own, and put out a call for international help. The response has been astonishing, with many nations sending manpower or equipment to help in the efforts. These countries included Russia, Cyprus, Greece, the UK, the USA, Azerbaijan, Italy, Bulgaria, Croatia, France and Spain. More surprisingly, in view of regional politics, was the help provided by Jordan, Egypt and even Turkey. It is true that Israel has always been first to offer assistance to other countries in the wake of national disasters, even those who refuse to recognize Israel’s place amongst the nations of the world. This has shown itself to be reciprocal in Israel’s hour of need. We have much to be grateful to these countries. It is clear that things would have been a great deal worse without their help.
The second positive point is the extent to which the Israeli people have pulled together to help and support those affected by the fire. Homes and community centers have been opened up and down the country to provide assistance to the 17,000 people who have been evacuated from their homes. Some of these people lost all of their possessions as the fire swept through and destroyed everything that they owned. It is true that the process of rebuilding will take more than simply a few days. It is, however, pleasing to see the willingness of others to help during these most difficult times. Tragically, Israel will bury some of its finest and bravest, this time not killed in the line of defending the country against the threat of war or terror attack, but in a fight against a natural disaster. The circumstances are different, but the spirit is the same. This is the spirit that says that nothing will be allowed to overcome the will to survive in our homeland. As Art Linkletter, the famous radio and TV personality once said, “Things turn out the best for people who make the best out the way things turn out.” Personally, my family in Haifa is very appreciative of your phone calls and concern.
As the saying goes: “Life goes on,” which we witnessed locally the week after Chanukah, on Shabbat Vayigash, when we had the baby naming of Larry and Shirley (Little) Block's first grandchild - Mia May Rogers. Mia - Etel Devorah - is the daughter of Melissa and Andy Rogers and the granddaughter of Larry & Shirley Block, Richard Rogers, Sally Rogers, and Fred Reno. The proud grandparents sponsored a heartwarming and delicious Kiddush following services.
Another warm Mazal Tov goes to our youngest and newest congregant, Sophia Yael Elfenbein. The new baby is the daughter of Dr. Ron Elfenbein and Dr. Heather Symons. Sophia is the sister of Alex and Haley Elfenbein. It is great to see and welcome the growing generations in Kneseth Israel.
Another celebration on the horizon is a few weeks away… a Tu B’Shvat Shabbat Kiddush, on January 15th, with a healthy smorgasbord of food, fruits, and nuts, commonly eaten on this holiday. Please help our Kneseth Israel family grow by inviting your friends and neighbors to experience the joy of our warm and loving congregation.
Rabbi Moshe Pinchas Weisblum
January 2011
“Our Annapolis Chanukah celebration and communal party was a tremendous success with over 100 people enjoying lights, latkes, and laughs. We had first class entertainment; our delightful Kneseth Israel Hebrew School children’s production was the most adorable children's skit I have seen in a long time! We all loved it! Our choir sang beautifully, accompanied by Sean Lane, a professional pianist. The amazing and humorous magic of Eric Henning mesmerized all. Everyone was delighted with the scrumptious and bountiful dinner and certainly no one left hungry! Thanks to Lynn Reiter Kay for chairing this great event, to Chef Yehudah Cohen and his assistants Dore & Steve Lebowitz, Marshall Mentz, and to all the volunteers who created a super holiday. (Please see the email below from the magician Eric Henning - quite a bit of praise from someone who performed at the White House just six weeks ago.)
While we lit the candles here, in Haifa, Israel, a tragedy occurred within the vicinity of my parents’ home. The worst fire in the history of Israel destroyed thousands of acres of forestland, burned down numerous homes including the devastation of an entire kibbutz, and has tragically claimed the lives of 41 people. Not only is this Israel’s worst fire ever, it is also the largest loss of life in a single incident in Israel’s history, including natural disasters and terror attacks.
In the case of a disaster like this, it sometimes helps to draw strength from any positive aspects that may arise from the situation. We are fortunate in that there are a number of positives that serve to lighten the heavy burden caused by this tragedy. The first positive aspect is the response by outside countries to the call sent out for help. Prime Minister Netanyahu succeeded in overcoming a classic Israeli weakness when he acknowledged that Israel cannot do this on her own, and put out a call for international help. The response has been astonishing, with many nations sending manpower or equipment to help in the efforts. These countries included Russia, Cyprus, Greece, the UK, the USA, Azerbaijan, Italy, Bulgaria, Croatia, France and Spain. More surprisingly, in view of regional politics, was the help provided by Jordan, Egypt and even Turkey. It is true that Israel has always been first to offer assistance to other countries in the wake of national disasters, even those who refuse to recognize Israel’s place amongst the nations of the world. This has shown itself to be reciprocal in Israel’s hour of need. We have much to be grateful to these countries. It is clear that things would have been a great deal worse without their help.
The second positive point is the extent to which the Israeli people have pulled together to help and support those affected by the fire. Homes and community centers have been opened up and down the country to provide assistance to the 17,000 people who have been evacuated from their homes. Some of these people lost all of their possessions as the fire swept through and destroyed everything that they owned. It is true that the process of rebuilding will take more than simply a few days. It is, however, pleasing to see the willingness of others to help during these most difficult times. Tragically, Israel will bury some of its finest and bravest, this time not killed in the line of defending the country against the threat of war or terror attack, but in a fight against a natural disaster. The circumstances are different, but the spirit is the same. This is the spirit that says that nothing will be allowed to overcome the will to survive in our homeland. As Art Linkletter, the famous radio and TV personality once said, “Things turn out the best for people who make the best out the way things turn out.” Personally, my family in Haifa is very appreciative of your phone calls and concern.
As the saying goes: “Life goes on,” which we witnessed locally the week after Chanukah, on Shabbat Vayigash, when we had the baby naming of Larry and Shirley (Little) Block's first grandchild - Mia May Rogers. Mia - Etel Devorah - is the daughter of Melissa and Andy Rogers and the granddaughter of Larry & Shirley Block, Richard Rogers, Sally Rogers, and Fred Reno. The proud grandparents sponsored a heartwarming and delicious Kiddush following services.
Another warm Mazal Tov goes to our youngest and newest congregant, Sophia Yael Elfenbein. The new baby is the daughter of Dr. Ron Elfenbein and Dr. Heather Symons. Sophia is the sister of Alex and Haley Elfenbein. It is great to see and welcome the growing generations in Kneseth Israel.
Another celebration on the horizon is a few weeks away… a Tu B’Shvat Shabbat Kiddush, on January 15th, with a healthy smorgasbord of food, fruits, and nuts, commonly eaten on this holiday. Please help our Kneseth Israel family grow by inviting your friends and neighbors to experience the joy of our warm and loving congregation.
Rabbi Moshe Pinchas Weisblum
January 2011
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