hazzan eliot I. vogel

24 Pages·2016·6.97 MB·Dutch

Vol. 79, No. 8 April 2016 Adar II-Nisan 5776
Message from Rabbi Allen
Last year in the April edi-
tion of the Bulletin, I shared
with you a piece from Rab-
bi Abraham Joshua Heschel
Save the date! on the topic of civil rights
in America. The excerpted
passage was a part of our
Sunday evening, June 5 Passover seders growing up
(it still is) and has become a foundational text
Patrons event honoring for me as a rabbi and as a Jew. In fact there
are many parts of my seder experience over
the years that I regard in that way.
hazzan eliot I. vogel
I would like to share another one with you
this year. It is a riff on the Four Children.
and his 25 Years at har Zion temple
Instead, it is the Four Kinds of Jews. This
reading first appeared in a Zionist newspa-
More information coming soon! per in Berlin in the 1930’s – a time when
the issues of the day were not so different
from our own. What does Jewish identity
look like? How can I be fully Jewish and
Save the Date!
American (German in this case) at the same
time? What should a Jew’s relationship be
towards Zionism? What should our relation-
Sunday, May 1, 5:00 PM
ship be towards the Jewish people and to
the world?
yom Hashoah Commemoration Though somewhat anachronistic, as it is
over 80 years old, as a text I still find it brim-
ming with interpretive opportunities. As you
Special Guests
read and consider these typologies, I invite
dachau Survivor Ernest Gross and you to ask yourself which one do you identify
with the most? Which type challenges you? If
don Greenbaum, his american Liberator
you were to write a new version of this for the
21st century, what would be your paradigm?
Watch your email and E-highlights for more information.
What is missing from the conversation?
(continued on page 3)

The Sisterhood of Har Zion Temple and the Jane Fishman Grinberg Religious School present the third annual
Open a Book…Open Your Mind – APRIL 2 to 10
Steve Katz, Bill Aron, Pam Jenoff, Judith Viorst, Dani Klein Modisett,
Rita B. Gabis, Ronald H. Balson and Shulem Deen
See page 7 or more information.
RELIGIOUSLY SPEAKING . . .
SHABBAT SeRVIceS AnD AcTIVITIeS shabbat sha-Blue Jeans –
Friday Night Family service and Dinner
Friday, April 1 – 23 Adar II
Join us on April 1 at 5:30 PM
5:30 PM Shabbat Sha-Blue Jeans and
Gimel/Bet Shabbat Dinner for lively services with guitar and a delicious dinner
6:00 PM Minha/Kabbalat Shabbat/Ma’ariv with options for kids and adults. Geared for families
with children, infants to six years old, but all ages
Saturday, April 2 – 23 Adar II
are welcome. Jeans and casual clothes encouraged.
9:30 AM Kol Tefilah
B’nai Mitzvah Eli Werbach and Esther Werbach Reservations required – please contact Marcy at
Children of Johanna & Kevin Werbach [email protected].
9:45 AM Lilmod U’Lelamed
10:30 AM Junior Congregation
11:00 AM Parashat Hashavua
7:00 PM Minha/Ma’ariv/Havdalah Junior congregation
(For children grades K-7)
Friday, April 8 – 1 Nisan
with Norman Einhorn
6:00 PM Kol Zimra
6:00 PM Traditional Service 10:30 AM, Dogole Chapel
Saturdays, April 2, 16 and 30
Saturday, April 9 – 1 Nisan
9:30 AM Kol Tefilah 
Bar Mitzvah Brandon Martin, son of Rock & Roll “shabbat” shacharit
Julie Bluestein Martin and Scott Martin
10:30 AM Tefilot Noar with Rabbi Marshall and Jacob Schatz
10:30 AM Rock & Roll Shabbat Shacharit Come sing and dance as we celebrate Shabbat!
11:15 AM Kol Mishpacha Geared towards families with children in
7:15 PM Minha/Ma’ariv/Havdalah grades 1-7, but ALL are welcome!
Saturday, April 9
Friday, April 15 – 8 Nisan
6:00 PM Minha/Kabbalat Shabbat/Ma’ariv 10:30-11:45 AM
followed by Congregational Oneg Shabbat 
Saturday, April 16 – 8 Nisan Kol Mishpacha
9:00 AM Kol Tefilah
Geared for young families
Bat Mitzvah Skylar Zachian, daughter of
Dr. Toby Frank Zachian and Saturdays, April 9 and 23
Dr. Victor Zachian 11:15 AM in the Benjamin B. Levin Room
9:45 AM Lilmod U’Lelamed
10:30 AM Junior Congregation Babysitting takes place every shabbat
11:00 AM Parashat Hashavua beginning at 9:30 AM at the same location.
7:20 PM Minha/Ma’ariv/Havdalah

Friday, April 22 – 15 Nisan – Erev Pesah
Milton Pomerantz interactive Torah study
6:00 PM Minha/Ma’ariv for Shabbat and Yom Tov
(Light candles before coming to services) Every Shabbat following services and
kiddush join in an informal discussion
Saturday, April 23 – 15 Nisan
of the day's Torah portion.
First Day of Pesah
9:00 AM Kol Tefilah and Pesah Service 
10:30 AM Tefilot Noar
Talmud class
11:15 AM Kol Mishpacha
Study Talmud with Rabbi Charlestein in the
1:30 PM Minha (no Ma’ariv due to Second Seder)
Rudofker Library one hour before Minha.
Friday, April 29 – 22 Nisan
6:00 PM Minha/Ma’ariv for Shabbat and Yom Tov
Saturday, April 30 – 22 Nisan TiscH
Eighth Day of Pesah
After Wednesday morning minyan.
Trustees & Volunteer Recognition Shabbat
9:00 AM Kol Tefilah Join Rabbi Allen for breakfast and inspirational learning.
9:45 AM Lilmod U’Lelamed 
10:30 AM Junior Congregation Friday Morning Minyannaires
11:00 AM Parashat Hashavua
Join Rabbi Rosenberg for morning minyan and
7:35 PM Minha/Ma’ariv/Havdalah
then stay for a bite-size portion of Torah along
see page 3 for Passover schedule. with your coffee and bagel.
Page Two  April, 2016  www.harziontemple.org  The Bulletin of Har Zion Temple
Rabbi Allen
(continued from page 1)
Service Schedule fOr PeSah 5776 From all of us at Har Zion, we wish you and your family
a meaningful and joyous Passover.
Thursday, April 21 – 14 Nisan The Responsible Jew
8:28 PM Bedikdat Hametz – Search for Hametz When Hitler took power in Germany, the Nazis promul-
gated a decree that all Jews must wear the yellow star. On
Friday, April 22 – 15 Nisan – Erev Pesah April 1, 1933, the Jewish Review of Berlin, a Zionist news-
7:00 AM Morning Service and Siyum Bechorim paper, editorialized concerning what the Jewish response
(Fast of the First Born) should be to the new Nazi law that all Jews were required
10:00 AM Latest time to eat Hametz to wear a yellow star. “The answer must be clear. It must
11:00 AM Bi’ur Hametz – Burning the Hametz be that briefest of sentences Moses spoke to the Egyptians-
Ivri anochi, I am a Jew.”
6:00 PM Minha and Ma’ariv for Shabbat and
What does declaring ivri anochi – I am a Jew – mean
Yom Tov (Light candles before services)
to you? What action does it demand once we make
that statement?
Saturday, April 23 – 15 Nisan –
The Irresponsible Jew
First Day of Pesah
A Jew cannot be a human being without fully becoming a
9:00 AM Morning Service
Jew. The mistake of the assimilationist comes from thinking
1:30 PM Minha (after Kiddush and Torah Study)
that the less Jew he/she is, the more human he/she is. On
No Ma’ariv due to Second Seder
the contrary, he/she is less a human being and to that very
extent, he/she is less a Jew…
Sunday, April 24 – 16 Nisan –
How do you think fully embracing our Judaism can
Second Day of Pesah
make us more human? What are your obstacles to
9:00 AM Morning Service
making that a reality? How can we at Har Zion Temple
7:30 PM Minha/Ma’ariv
walk with you on your journey?
The Foolish Jew
Monday, April 25 – 17 Nisan –
Rabbi Hanoch of Alexandria said: “The real exile of Israel
Third Day of Pesah
in Egypt is that they learned to endure it.”
6:50 AM Morning Service
Our Sages added: “Not only was it necessary to take the
6:00 PM Minha/Ma’ariv
Jews out of Egypt, but it was also necessary to take Egypt
out of the Jews.”
Tuesday, April 26 – 18 Nisan –
What are the “Egypts” in your life that you endure?
Fourth Day of Pesah What do you need not only to be taken out of that
6:50 AM Morning Service Egypt but to have it removed from you as well?
6:00 PM Minha/Ma’ariv The Indifferent Jew
For the one who does not know how to ask, tell him that
Wednesday, April 27 – 19 Nisan – Chaim Weitzman once said: “A nation does not receive a
Fifth Day of Pesah state on a silver platter.”
6:50 AM Morning Service What are the givens in your life? What do you do to
6:00 PM Minha/Ma’ariv ensure that you don’t take them for granted?
Thursday, April 28 – 20 Nisan –
Come relax and enjoy
Sixth Day of Pesah Joy of Shabbat together
6:50 AM Morning Service
shabbat following evening
6:00 PM Minha/Ma’ariv for Yom Tov
Services.
Dinner
Friday, April 29 – 21 Nisan –
All ages welcome!
Seventh Day of Pesah (Formerly known as Shabbat in a Box)
9:00 AM Morning Service
6:00 PM Minha/Ma’ariv for Yom Tov and Shabbat Friday, May 13
Dinner following 6:00 PM Kol Zimra Services
Saturday, April 30 – 22 Nisan –
Eighth Day of Passover
$10 per adult, $5 per child (under 13)
Trustees and Volunteer Recognition Shabbat
BYOB (unopened Kosher)
9:00 AM Morning Service
RSVP by Monday, May 9 with your choice of
7:35 PM Minha/Ma’ariv – Yom Tov and Shabbat
chicken or salmon, to Marcy Gubernick at
conclude at 8:40 pm
610-667-5000 or [email protected]
The Bulletin of Har Zion Temple  www harziontemple.org  April, 2016  Page Three
PASSOVER . . .
Kashrut for Pesah
PASSOVER RESTAURANT
Following is a summary of the decisions of the Commit-
tee on Jewish Law and Standards (CJLS) of the Rabbinical Wednesday, April 27
Assembly pertaining to Passover foods, dishes, and utensils.
5:00 – 8:00 PM
Kosher le-Pesah labels that do not bear the name of a rabbi
or one of the recognized symbols of rabbinic supervision,
Catered by Betty the Caterer
or which are not integral to the package, should not be used
without consulting your rabbi. Soup and Salad Bar, Entrees, Kugel,
Prohibited foods include the following: leavened bread, Vegetables and Dessert
cakes, biscuits, crackers, cereal, coffees containing cereal
$40/Adult $20/Child 5-12
derivatives, wheat, barley, oats spelt, rye, and all liquids con-
taining ingredients or flavors made from grain alcohol. $110/Family of 4 (adults & children)
Most Ashkenazic authorities have added the following
ReseRvAtions needed by
foods (kitniyot) to the above list: rice, corn, millet, legumes
thuRsdAy, ApRil 21
(beans and peas; however, string beans are permitted). The
CJLS has ruled unanimously that peanuts and peanut oil call Marcy Gubernick, 610-667-5000 or
are permissible. Some Ashkenazic authorities permit, while email, [email protected]
others forbid, the use of legumes in a form other than their
(payment at the door and make checks payable to
natural state, for example: corn sweeteners, corn oil, soy
betty the Caterer – hZt cannot bill you.)
oil. Sephardic authorities permit the use of all of the above.
Consult a member of the clergy for guidance in the use of
medicine is required for life sustaining therapy, it may be
these products.
used on Pesah. If it is not for life sustaining therapy, some
PERMITTED FOODS: A. The following foods require authorities permit, while others prohibit. Consult the clergy.
a kosher le-Pesah label if purchased before or during Pesah: In all cases, capsules are preferable to pills.
all baked products (matzah, cakes, matzah flour, farfel,
matzah meal, and any products containing matzah); canned KASHERING OF UTENSILS: The process of kashering
or bottled fruit juices (These juices are often clarified with utensils depends on how the utensils are used. According to
kitniyot which are not listed among the ingredients. How- halakhah, leaven can be purged from a utensil by the same
ever, if one knows there are no such agents, the juice may process in which it was absorbed in the utensil. Therefore,
be purchased prior to Pesah without a kosher le-Pesah label); utensils used in cooking are kashered by boiling, those used
wine; vinegar; liquor; oils; dried fruits; candy; chocolate in broiling are kashered by fire and heat, and those used
flavored milk; ice cream; yogurt, and soda. only for cold food are kashered by rinsing.
B. The following processed foods (canned, bottled or A. EARTHENWARE (china, pottery, etc.) may not be
frozen) require a kosher le-Pesah label if purchased during kashered. However, fine translucent chinaware which has
Pesah: milk, butter, juices, milk products, spices, coffee, tea, not been used for over a year may be used if scoured and
and fish, as well as all foods listed in Category C. cleaned in hot water.
C. The following foods require no kosher le-Pesah label B. METAL (wholly made of metal) UTENSILS USED IN
if purchased prior to Pesah: unopened packages or con- FIRE (spit, broiler) must first be thoroughly scrubbed and
tainers of natural coffee without cereal additives (however, cleansed and then made as hot as possible. Those used for
be aware that coffees produced by General Foods are not cooking or eating (silverware, pots) must be thoroughly
kosher for Passover unless marked KP); sugar, pure tea (not scrubbed and cleaned and completely immersed in boiling
herbal tea); salt; pepper, natural spices; frozen fruit juices water. Pots should not be used for a period of at least 24
with no additives; frozen (uncooked) vegetables (for legumes hours between the cleaning and the immersion in boiling
see above); milk; butter; cottage cheese; frozen (uncooked) water. Metal baking utensils cannot be kashered.
fruit (with no additives). C. OVENS AND RANGES: Every part that comes in con-
D. The following foods require no kosher le-Pesah label tact with food must be thoroughly scrubbed and cleaned.
if purchased before or during Pesah: fresh fruits and veg- Then, oven and range should be heated as hot as possible
etables (for legumes see above), eggs, fresh fish, and fresh for a half hour. If there is a broil setting, use it. Self-cleaning
meat. ovens should be put through the self-cleaning cycle ac-
DETERGENTS: If permitted during the year, powdered cording to the manufacturer’s instructions. Continuous
and liquid detergents do not require a kosher le-Pesah la- cleaning ovens must be kashered in the same manner as
bel. regular ovens.
MEDICINE: Since hametz binders are used in many Microwave ovens, which do not cook the food by means
pills, the following guidelines should be followed: if the (continued on page 5)
Page Four  April, 2016  www.harziontemple.org  The Bulletin of Har Zion Temple
Kashrut (continued from page 4)
A Call for Volunteers for
of heat, should be cleaned, and then two cups of water
should be placed inside. Then turn the oven on until one Inglis House Seder
cup of water has boiled away. A microwave oven that has
a browning element cannot by kashered for Pesah. Would you like to put a smile on the faces of the Jew-
D. GLASSWARE: Authorities disagree as to the method for
ish residents of Inglis House? Be available on thursday,
kashering drinking utensils. One opinion requires soaking
April 28 at 10:15 AM (volunteers are asked to arrive at
in water for three days, changing the water every 24 hours.
The other opinion requires only a thorough scrubbing be- 10:30 AM) for two hours to help serve at a seder. You will
fore Pesah, or putting them through a dishwasher. be performing a mitzvah and you'll find it to be a heart-
Glass cookware: There is a difference of opinion as to
warming and gratifying experience. Say yes! To help out
whether this item must be kashered. One opinion is that it
call Barbara Berkowitz, 610-664-8335 or Gladys Shubin,
must be kashered. After a thorough cleansing, there should
be water boiled in it, which will overflow the rim. The other 610-667-7546.
opinion is that only a thorough cleansing is required. Glass
bakeware, like metal bakeware, may not be kashered.
E. DISHWASHER: After not using the machine for a period
of 24 hours, a full cycle with detergent should be run.
F. ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES: If the parts that come into
contact with hametz are removable, they can be kashered
Sell Your Hametz
in the appropriate way (if metal, follow the rules for metal
utensils). If the parts are not removable, the appliance can- An integral part of the pre-Passover planning in-
not be kashered. (All exposed parts should be thoroughly volves the selling of one’s hametz. The Torah enjoins
cleaned.) us to rid ourselves from all hametz and utensils which
G. TABLES, CLOSETS, AND COUNTERS: If used with
have been used during the course of the year. There is
hametz, they should be thoroughly cleaned and covered,
no actual transfer of property. It is purely a symbolic
and then they may be used.
procedure. You allow your hametz and utensils to be
H. KITCHEN SINK: A metal sink can be kashered by
sold to a non-Jew. In this manner, the Biblical injunc-
thoroughly cleaning and then pouring boiling water over
tion is fulfilled.
it. A porcelain sink should be cleaned and a sink rack used.
In order to facilitate the proceedings, kindly com-
If, however, dishes are to be soaked in a porcelain sink, a
dish basin must be used. plete the form below and return it to the synagogue
I. HAMETZ AND NON-PASSOVER UTENSILS: Non- office.
Passover dishes, pots, and hametz whose ownership has I will sell your hametz on your behalf and in that
been transferred, should be separated, locked up or covered, way you will fulfill the Torah commandment.
and marked in order to prevent accidental use. Let me take this opportunity, while well in advance,
to wish you and yours an enjoyable and happy Pass-
Save the Date! over.
Rabbi Robert Alpert, Ritual Director
Thursday, May 26
I hereby authorize Rabbi Robert Alpert to sell my
hametz. I understand that the hametz will no longer be
in my possession from Friday, April 22 at 10:00 AM
Lag B'Omer until Saturday, April 30 at 8:45 PM.
Name ___________________________________________
Community Barbecue
Address _________________________________________
Bonfire and Beer _________________________________________________
Kids Activities! Adult Fun! Note: If there are others for whom you wish to sell
hametz, please provide names and addresses and their
Something for Everyone! authorization.
_________________________________________________
More information to follow.
_________________________________________________
The Bulletin of Har Zion Temple  www.harziontemple.org  April, 2016  Page Five
ADULT JEWISH LEARNING . . .
Classes with Rabbi Rosenberg
One-on-One Learning with the clergy
Popular Commentaries on Genesis All of our clergy would enjoy the opportunity to spend
Thursday mornings, 10:00 AM one-on-one time teaching whatever topic or aspect of
We will study the commentaries found in the Hertz Chu- Judaism you would like to study.
mash, the Etz Hayim Chumash and the commentaries of
Some suggested topics available are: Hebrew language,
modern biblical scholars to deepen our understanding of
Torah reading, Text study, chanting Torah or Haftarah.
the first book of the Bible.
Call Laurie Albert, 610-667-5000, ext 111, to make an
appointment!
Men’s Club Minyannaires
Friday mornings, following 7:00 AM Minyan
Jeopardy Rashi style
APPROACHES TO TORAH
We will examine the commentary of Rashi on the Torah
to deepen our appreciation of the issues Rashi saw in the Tuesdays, April 19 and May 3, 6:15-7:30 PM
text, and to understand how his commentary maintains
Conservative Judaism believes that there is more than
relevance through today.
one approach to understanding Torah. We debate about
what really happened at Sinai. What does Torah mean?
Class with Rabbi Allen How can two Jews have three opinions about matters
of “fact?”
TISCH
Come learn about and discuss the question of divine
Wednesday mornings following 7:00 AM Minyan
authority from Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, Recon-
Halakha Yomit (daily halakha) with the Mishnah Berurah
structionist perspectives.
Join us each week as we study a different halakha and
ask ourselves about the underlying values that inform our Join with Rabbi Rosenberg after evening minyan for light
practice. dinner and discussion. There is no cost for dinner and
RSVPs are required: [email protected].
Classes with Rabbi Alpert
Adult Bible Study
B’bayit
Sunday, April 17, 2:00 PM at Har Zion
Book of Joshua – We will examine in depth the process of Behind the Scenes of Shabbat…
the conquest of the Land of Canaan and Joshua's leadership
candles, Wine, challah
style in the aftermath of Moses' passing.
Wednesday, April 13 at 7:00 PM
Talmud Study
Our B’bayit series brings Torah into our homes.
Mondays at 10:00 AM Come learn about the customs of Shabbat – candle
Continuing our study of the sixth chapter of Bava Metzia.
meditation, Kiddush wine tasting, and challah baking.
Sisterhood Davening Skills candles
Thursday mornings, 11:00 AM with Rabbi Uri Allen
Learn how to lead the weekday service and feel more at
hosted by Kimby & Wayne Kimmell
home at Minyan. The class is open to all who know a bit
RSVP to [email protected]
of Hebrew. For info, please contact Debbie Golden,
[email protected].
Rabbinical Assembly Lunch and Learn
Classes with Rabbi Marshall
For more info: Rabbi Gary Charlestein, 610-239-6003
Ladies and Lattes
Tuesdays in Center City, 12:00-1:30 PM
Thursdays, 9:15 AM at Har Zion Temple and
Offices of Cozen & O’Connor, One Liberty Place,
12:00 PM at Starbucks, Bala Cynwyd
1650 Market Street, Philadelphia
April 14, May 19
Rabbi Robert Alpert teaches at this location on
Ask The Rabbi: Women Rabbis Respond to
April 19.
Modern Jewish Law Questions
Tuesdays in Plymouth Meeting, 12:30-1:30 PM
Have you ever wondered if it is permissible to drive on
Offices of Premier Dental, 1710 Romano Drive – off
Shabbat to shul? Make a snowman on Shabbat? Or even
Ridge Pike and Belvoir Road
dance on Shabbat? Come discuss with Rabbi Marshall what
Rabbi Charlestein teaches at this location.
the women rabbis of our time have to say.
Page six  April, 2016  www.harziontemple.org  The Bulletin of Har Zion Temple The Bulletin of Har Zion Temple  www.harziontemple.org  April, 2016  Page seven
The Sisterhood of Har Zion Temple and the Jane Fishman Grinberg Religious School present
the Third Annual
Open a Book…Open Your Mind
APRIL 2 - 10, 2016
Saturday, April 2, 8:30 pm Wednesday, April 6, 7:00 pm
“Blood, Sweat, and My Rock ‘n’ Roll Years” “Take My Spouse Please – How to Keep
by Steve Katz Your Marriage Happy, Healthy, and
Thriving by Following the Rules of Comedy“
Sunday, April 3, 10:00 am by Dani Klein Modisett
“New Beginnings – The Triumphs of 120
Cancer Survivors” by Bill Aron Thursday, April 7, 7:00 pm
“A Guest at the Shooter’s Banquet – My
Monday, April 4, 11:30 am Grandfather’s SS Past, My Jewish Family,
“The Last Summer at Chelsea Beach” a Search for the Truth“ by Rita B. Gabis
by Pam Jenoff
Sunday, April 10, 10:00 am
Tuesday, April 5, 1:00 pm “Saving Sophie” by Ronald H. Balson
“Wait for Me and Other Poems about the
Irritations and Consolations of a Long Sunday, April 10, 7:00 pm
Marriage“ by Judith Viorst “All Who Go Do Not Return”
by Shulem Deen
To join the growing list of event supporters, contact the committee at [email protected].
For reservations, go to harziontemple.ticketleap.com, or contact Marcy Gubernick,
610-667-5000, or [email protected].
This event is brought to Har Zion Temple in collaboration with the Jewish Book Council.
"Open A Book...Open Your Mind" Join the PhiladelPhia Soul
welcomes its Media Partner for a fun night celebrating
JewiSh heritage
Sunday, april 17, 4:00 pM
Wells Fargo Center vs portland Steel
• You will receive a special Soul kippah
• In-game recognition for Har Zion Temple
• First 150 tickets will receive behind-the-scenes tour of the
Wells Fargo Center
• Second 150 tickets will be given pre-game field access to
watch player introductions from the end zone
Ticket: $18 and $36
For tickets visit: philadelphiasoul.com/harzion
Questions? david Beck, 215-253-4900 x173
or [email protected]
Page six  April, 2016  www.harziontemple.org  The Bulletin of Har Zion Temple The Bulletin of Har Zion Temple  www.harziontemple.org  April, 2016  Page seven
SISTERHOOD . . .
Getting to Know Your sisters:
Sisterhood Calendar of Events
sheri Herzberg
By Deborah Golden, Sisterhood Co-President General Meeting with Pam Jenoff
I am pleased to introduce another accomplished and active Monday, April 4, 11:30 AM
member of Sisterhood, Sheri Herzberg. Sheri is a woman Join Open a Book...Open Your Mind author
worthy of praise for the manner in which she has managed Pam Jenoff – "The Last Summer at Chelsea Beach"
to balance being a mother and wife, having a career and Includes Lunch
living an observant Jewish life. For those of us, like me, who Free to Sisterhood members/$10 for non-members
have found it challenging to juggle these things, Sheri is a To register, contact Marcy Gubernick, 610-667-5000 or
shining light. I first noticed Sheri when I started attending [email protected].
services more regularly about 15 years ago. She was there
•••
every Shabbat with two adorable little girls who would bring
Women's Rosh Chodesh Group
books and toys to shul, and amuse themselves while their
Thursday, April 7, 7:00 PM
parents, Sheri and Howard, davened and prayed.
Join Open a Book...Open Your Mind author
In fact, her kids are extremely comfortable in shul. Sheri
Rita Gabis at Har Zion Temple
recalls that one Yom Kippur, many years ago, Arielle went
$15 in advance/$20 at the door
missing. Sheri and Howard were going nuts looking for
To register, contact Marcy Gubernick, 610-667-5000 or
her, but when they found her, she was on the bimah with a
[email protected].
nervous rabbi who was trying to make sure that she did not
•••
fall off. Since then, both girls have served as USY presidents
Sisterhood Adult Education
– Arielle is a past president and Michelle currently holds
Wednesdays,10:00-11:30 AM at Har Zion Temple
the office. Those adorable little girls are quite grown, now.
All are welcome. Classes are free.
Arielle is a freshman at the University of Pittsburgh, and
Michelle is a Junior at Lower Merion High School. safety in Our community
For the past several years, Sheri has worked as a sales April 13: Women and Violence
representative for Heerema Company, a distributor of equip- In the U.S., on average, nearly 20 people per minute
ment to food and pharmaceutical companies. She spends are physically abused by an intimate partner. During
part of her working hours at home, but is on the road fre- one year, this equates to more than 10 million women
quently visiting customers. It’s a job that has permitted her and men. Kelly Gabriel, the Community Education
to be with her children when necessary. Coordinator of the Women’s Center of Montgomery
Sheri’s background is unusual – she had a B.S. from the County, along with volunteers from the Women’s
University of Pennsylvania and an M.S. from Penn State, Center, will discuss domestic violence.
both in chemical engineering. At Penn State, Sheri wrote April 20: Guns and Our Community
her thesis on Microencapsulation with Polymers using Every day, the news makes clear what we already
Spray Drying. Having worked with engineers for most of know — we have a widespread and indiscriminate
my career, believe me when I say, that there are not many gun problem. Join Shira Goodman, Executive
women in the field, though their numbers are growing. For Director of CeaseFirePA, as she discusses the
this reason, Sheri has been very happy to develop friend- latest issues related to gun control.
ships with the few women she gets to know in her job.
While continuing to work, Sheri manages to practice her
sisteRhood FloRAl Fund
hobbies. She is a runner, a swimmer, used to teach swim- Debbie & Jim Golden In honor of the B’nai Mitzvah of Romy and
ming, grows veggies, and is a fantastic cook, known for Brandon Schwartz
her soup. She and Howard subscribe to an organic C.S.A. Norma & Gerry Dworkin In honor of Tessa Pearlstein's Bat Mitzvah,
in honor of Debbie Golden for her Haftarah
(community supported agriculture) program to support lo-
and sermon on Sisterhood Shabbat
cal farmers. With the subscription, the farmer receives a
Debbie Golden and Thank you Andrea Robbins for another
guaranteed stream of income, and the Herzbergs support Norma Dworkin successful Sisterhood Shabbat
the environmentally friendly practice using locally grown
produce, thus minimizing their carbon footprint. Floral Fund Donation Cards
Sheri grew up in a Reform synagogue, and is from Cin-
Minimum contribution: $10.00
naminson, N.J. She met Howard in 1993 at a social event
Four for $30
after a Federation fundraiser, and the rest is history. They
Questions? Please contact Emily Schwartz at
have been married for 21 years. She has found a home at
610-660-0609 or [email protected].
Har Zion, where she is a regular shul-goer, and an enthusi-
Cards are also available in the Gift Shop.
astic participant in the annual Purim Shpiel.
Page Eight  April, 2016  www.harziontemple.org  The Bulletin of Har Zion Temple
MEN'S CLUB . . . RUDOFKER LIBRARY . . .
By Roy Stander HOLIDAYS
Passover begins Friday evening, April 22, ending with the
Wow! I can hardly believe that nearly
two years has passed since I was the 8th Day of Pesah on Saturday, April 30.
last “mandated solo” President of the The library contains a wealth of information about these
beloved Har Zion Temple Men’s Club. events – particularly our book collection. Please come in
It seems like just yesterday that I was and browse.
planning, organizing, and overseeing PESAH BOOKS FOR CHILDREN
the execution of the many events that We have a wonderful collection of children’s books for
Men’s Club has to offer. I certainly don’t miss the mas- Passover. Many titles contain meaningful (and often humor-
sive amounts of emails that were flying in and out of my ous) stories with beautiful illustrations. Ask the staff!
computer, iPhone, and iPad, or the running around making HAGGADOT
last-minute final touches to make every event go perfectly The library maintains a diverse collection of Passover
(er…well)! Perhaps I miss a little bit of the excitement, but Haggadot. Please come in and browse through these beau-
certainly not during my busiest time of year, tax season; tiful books.
when I am practically chained to my desk, and papers,
INTERESTING BOOK
emails, text messages, tax returns, financial statements
The Three Temples: On the Emergence of Jewish Mysticism
and the like, are all flying in and out of my devices, and
by Rachel Elior
my head, in a mad scramble to meet ridiculous deadlines
In this ground-breaking study, the author offers a com-
that I know, in many instances, cannot be met. This year,
prehensive theory of the crystallization of the early stages
however, I am utterly thrilled that Pesah will fall AFTER
of the mystical tradition in Judaism based on the numerous
April 15; a rarity, where I will relish in the enjoyment of
ancient scrolls and manuscripts published in the last few
Seders and the holiday, without the tremendous stress of
decades. Her wide-ranging research, scrupulously docu-
meeting the many deadlines!
mented, enables her to demonstrate an uninterrupted line
So, a lot has changed since my presidential days, and
linking the priestly traditions of the Temple, the mystical
a lot has not. Yes, we now have Co-Presidents, Doug
liturgical literature found in the Qumran caves and associ-
Sayer and Jack Marine, who miraculously figure out the
proper proportion of each other’s ingredients to make ated directly and indirectly with the Merkavah tradition
things work out well. They have taken HZMC in a di- of around the second and first centuries BCE, and the
rection that fosters more casual get-togethers such as mystical works of the second to fifth centuries CE known
“Pub Nights,” rather than the more traditional monthly as Heikhalot literature (Publisher Review)
business meetings over which I presided. On the other The staff of the Rudofker Library wishes all of you a
hand, we still perform many of our traditional service happy and Kosher Pesah.
events such as the Yom Hashoah Yellow Candle program
(coming soon, in May – please light your candle May LIBRARY HOURS
4, and make whatever donation you can), participa- Tuesday, 4:00 – 6:15 PM
Wednesday, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Sunday, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Monday by appointment.
people, whose only mission is to have a good time while
doing something fun and constructive.
Recently, at the Mid-Atlantic Region of the Federation of
Jewish Men’s Clubs annual Man of the Year Dinner, held
at Temple Sinai in Dresher, I was greatly honored to have
been chosen as “Man of the Year,” representing Har Zion
Men's Club members prepare boxes for the Yellow Candle Temple Men’s Club. I was thrilled to have been presented
Campaign.
with a beautiful plaque commemorating the honor by Past
tion in the “Tour de Shuls” bike ride for Camp Ramah, President, Dr. Steve Moskowitz. My greatest of thanks go
and a Veterans’ Day program, just to name a few. We to all who attended the grand event, and to the scores of
also continue the tradition of our Annual Golf Outing, others who otherwise wished me well by making donations
Men’s Club Shabbat Weekend, a day trip to “hang with and/or other means. Even the simplest of words by the
the guys,” and various other BBQs, dinners and other many who have congratulated me were very meaningful
events that allow for great camaraderie and fun! All and heartwarming. I thank you all for whatever you have
of the aforementioned are open to all men of Har Zion done, and I look forward to honoring many future “Men of
Temple. If you’ve not attended before, I urge you to try the Year” at Har Zion Temple Men’s Club. Now, it’s time
something; bring a friend or two, or come alone, and to get back to “taxes.” Pesach Sameach; wishing you all a
join in for a great time, where you will meet some great happy and enjoyable Passover!
The Bulletin of Har Zion Temple  www.harziontemple.org  April, 2016  Page Nine
EDUCATION . . .
Honing Your Passover Knowledge
Jane Fishman Grinberg
Message from Rabbi nogah Marshall, Educational Director
Religious School/PTA
In just a matter of weeks, Jews all
around the world will be celebrating
School
the festival of Passover. Growing up in
April 1 Bet/Gimel Shabbat Dinner with
Syracuse, NY, my father, the Rabbi of
Shabbat Sha-Blue Jeans
our congregation, would host on the
April 2 Dalet/Heh Shabbat during Junior
Shabbat before Passover a “Passover
Congregation
Trivia Bowl.” Instead of delivering the
April 6 Open A Book...Open Your Mind event
sermon that day, in anticipation of the
with author Dani Klein Modisett, 7:00 PM
festival of Passover, he would test the Passover knowledge
sponsored by the PTA/HSA
of the congregation. He would even give out prizes, which
April 7 School Committee Meeting
made it even more exciting! I looked forward to this ev-
April 10 Community-Wide Zimriya, PTA Meeting
ery year. And when I became a Rabbi and had my own
April 16 Day School Shabbat during Junior
congregation, I instituted the “Passover Bowl” there. As Congregation
an educator, I am always looking for ways to enhance my April 17 Keiser/Wilf Religious School
family’s Seder. This coming year, I challenge you to host Passover Seder, 10:00 AM
your own “Passover Bowl” at your Seder to spark a conversa- April 24, 26 No School
tion during the “Maggid” part of the Seder when we retell
the story. I will even provide the questions! If you do not Youth
know the answers stop by my office and I will help you April 3 Kadima Event, Youth Committee Meeting
and even give you a prize! April 8-9 USY Spring Convention
April 14 USY Board Meeting
What is the Hebrew date that begins the festival of Passover?
April 17 USY at Arnold's Go-Karts
What is the Siyyum Bekhorim?
What does the word Hagaddah mean?
How many steps are there in the Passover Seder? Youth Update
How many days is Passover celebrated in the Diaspora and
in Israel? It’s Michelle Herzberg, your USY President,
here to give you the low down on USY
What do the three matzot represent on the Seder table?
this year so far! In March, we had a couple
What does Afikomen mean? of great events! March 5 was USY Prom
for Hagesher and EPA regions at Beth El
What is the ceremony called the night before Passover when
Yardley. It was a fun night full of dancing
searching for the Hametz? What is used?
and friends! The next weekend, on March
What are other names for Passover? 12, Har Zion USY had our ice skating event
at the Skatium. It was so much fun and
Whose name is not mentioned in the Hagaddah?
we had a great turnout! But we want an
What is Hol Hamoed? even better turnout for our April event at Arnold’s Go
Karts on the 17th so come join us! Even before Go Karting
There are many ways to enhance your family’s Seder.
though is Hagesher and EPA’s Spring Convention. Spring
The “Passover Bowl” is just one way. For more ideas, you Convention is a great place to meet people from all over
can look at: Passover, Second Edition: The Family Guide the two regions, get to know more Jews, and make amaz-
to Spiritual Celebration 2nd Edition by Dr. Ron Wolfson ing friends! If you are interested in trying out USY and
and /or http://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/making- seeing what we’re all about, please contact Judy Bender,
our Advisor, at [email protected]. Check out the Har
a-memorable-seder/.
Zion USY Facebook group as well to get updates on our
As we are about to celebrate as a community the festival of
events. I’m really looking forward to seeing more people
Pesah, I pray that this year is one full of warmth, brightness,
at events, so please reach out if you’re interested, and I’ll
happiness and much blessing for each and every one of us.
see you soon!
Chag Kasher V’sameach.
Page Ten  April, 2016  www.harziontemple.org  The Bulletin of Har Zion Temple The Bulletin of Har Zion Temple  www.harziontemple.org  April, 2016  Page Eleven