Voter ID is currently on the table in the PA House. Pennsylvania lawmakers are once again considering expanding the state’s voter ID requirements, this time as part of a larger proposal to change the date of the 2024 presidential primary. The Democratic-controlled state House is expected to consider a Republican-authored amendment this week that would require voters to show proof of identification every time they cast a ballot in person. Currently, state law requires voters to show proof of identification the first time they vote at a polling place. We need to make sure this doesn't make it to the floor for a vote. We have about 24 hours to do so.
2. Script for your call: Hi, my name is [your name]. I am calling as a proud Jew and member of [your congregation], which is a leader in the statewide Reform Jewish social justice movement RAC-Pennsylvania.
Is [your State Rep] currently supporting the bill that would move the primary in 2024? [if yes] Please thank them for me, as a Jew, so it does not conflict with Passover and it will be easier for me and my community to Vote. At the same time, I am asking that [your State Rep] insist this bill come back to committee so the Voter ID amendment can be removed and an Early Voting amendment can be added. As a Jew, I CANNOT support this bill which will increase voting access for us while limiting voting access for voters of color. Did you see Rabbi Beth Kalisch’s (of Beth David Reform Congregation on Gladwyne) Op-Ed on PennLive in April? If not, I will send it to you. [Ask for email to send it to]. She outlines what I am asking for. 3. Fill out this form to let us know how your call went!
4. Background: Voter ID was just added as an amendment to a bill that would move the primary date earlier so as not to conflict with Passover. We have a particular power in raising our voices on this issue as Jews to stand against a racist policy that is being attached to something that is supposed to benefit us. Together we can say NO! PA Voice, our partner since 2020, is strongly opposed to a requirement for voter ID as it would greatly impact communities of color. They have been trying for a long time to get an amendment through to allow for Early Voting, so everyone has access to voting regardless of their availability on Election Day. In April, RAC-PA Leadership Team members Rabbi Beth Kalisch of Beth David Reform Congregation in Gladwyne & Rabbi Chuck Briskin of Shir Ami in Newtown wrote an op-ed outlining this exact position. The PA Senate passed a bill that would move the primary to March 19th. That is the bill that is now moving forward with supposed bipartisan support in the House.
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
Tomorrow morning’s extraordinary prophetic reading from the 58th chapter of Isaiah is as bold and brave as they come! The ancient seer takes up the righteous cause of solidarity with the downtrodden, the destitute, the disenfranchised.
In but fourteen verses, the prophet preaches holy terror! No armchair critic, this Isaiah. Unlike us mere mortals who crouch behind thick curtains of division and seclusion, he thunders onto the world stage breaking down the doors of callousness and complacency, the iron bars of degeneracy and degradation which he sees all about him. He'll have none of it. He mocks us for our skewed priorities, our boastful obscenities. He chides, he ridicules us for getting it all wrong.
Instead, he pierces the holiest day of the year with our ultimate, moral challenge: to feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, to house the homeless, to free those imprisoned, to undo the chains of injustice. Some lofty agenda for an ancient seer whose pronouncements have clearly withstood the test of time!
Where, then, is the repairer of the breach?
“In my hands as they repair. In my words which speak comfort to the depressed. In my heart that is determined to right every wrong. In my eyes that can’t look way from the suffering. In my soul that is broken and in pain. Just when it seems so dark, I hear this call and know I must answer his challenge.” (Rabbi Mark Greenspan)
When we gather tomorrow morning, let’s all read pages 267-8 very carefully.
Are you ready for the Prophet?
I wish each of you a “Tzom Kal,” an easy but meaningful Fast.
Robert
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
The Sabbath between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is known as Shabbat Shuvah, or the Sabbath of return. It has a powerful message and this evening we look forward to sharing it with you. I am very grateful to our Adult Choir for lending their harmonious voices and adding beauty to this special service.
Together we will invite the angels of peace in Shalom Aleichem to “Shuvchem L’shalom-to return to us” next week instead of “Tzeitchem L’shalom-depart in peace,” which is so appropriate during this season of T’shuvah. In the T’filah we will sing our favorite melody for Zochreinu and ask God to “Inscribe us in the Book of Life” and we will refer to God as the Holy Sovereign instead of the Holy God. These changes in our Shabbat liturgy will hopefully encourage us to take time for personal reflection and find the courage to begin again, which happens to be the title of the third recording that I am so excited to share with you. It is by Elana Arian who is one the leading voices in contemporary Jewish music. She is a composer, multi-instrumentalist, a prayer leader and recording artist.
Here is her hopeful take on beginning again in 5784!
Amen, we begin again. We begin in hope. We begin with believing. We begin with our hearts staying open to all the gifts we’re receiving. We begin in faith, amen. We begin again. We begin with returning, amen. We begin with our minds broken open to lessons we’ll never stop learning. We begin again, amen. Amen, we begin again. We begin in strength, amen. We begin seeking justice, amen. We begin with our arms stretching open to welcome the weary among us. Begin again, begin again. May the sweetness of this new year never end. Begin again, begin again. May we never take for granted where we’ve been. We begin again, amen. We begin again. We begin in truth amen. We begin with forgiveness, amen. We begin with our eyes focused, open to notice the sacred within us. Begin again, begin again.
My second piece of music that I would like to introduce to you is by Juval Porat who pursued his cantorial studies at then newly established institute of Cantorial Arts in Berin. In 2009 he concluded his studies in the Hebrew Union College in Jerusalem and in June of that year was invested as the first Reform Cantor to be trained in Germany since WWII.
Our band and I will premier his beautiful composition Zochreinu during our Rosh Hashanah and later Yom Kippur contemporary services.
Zochreinu is inserted in the beginning of every single Amidah from the beginning of Rosh Hashanah through the end of Yom Kippur. Our plea to God to remember us and write us in the Book of Life is one of the most repeated paragraphs in the High Holyday liturgy! Juval uses this idea in his composition and repeats the words “remember us” many times, each time with added urgency and intensity!
The English part of the composition is in strike contrast to the mellow niggun (a melody without the words) that begins the piece. This contrast makes this prayer come alive and delivers the message of hope that God will remember us that we may live!
I hope that you had a wonderful, uplifting and inspiring Rosh HaShanah celebration with loved ones. If you joined us for one or more of our services last weekend, we thank you for your support and encouragement.
There were some truly unforgettable moments to our New Year’s celebration:
Some members of our volunteer choir joined with our four professional choristers for Erev Rosh HaShanah which is, always, a stirring musical pageant!
Last Shabbes morning, we were treated to an outstanding Torah service thanks to Sara Bloom, Sandi Cohen and Rhoda Ryba who were surrounded by a large contingent of “active” Sisterhood and Brotherhood members and we express our gratitude to our three exceptional Ba’alei Tekiah, Sara Bloom, Art Davis and Dave Simon. In addition, close to 20 Sisterhood members ascended the bimah bedecked in their new, colorful silk tallitot with halachically-prescribed tzitziyyot! Our thanks to Debbie Neibauer for facilitating that sacred project!
We introduced for the very first time on Shabbes afternoon, a brand new “Contemporary” Service with the T’filah Band on the bimah. It was, from all counts, a rousing success engaging the hearts, minds and artistic talents of all those aged 8 to 80! Special appreciation to Sherrie Turetsky, Executive Director and Steven Goldstein, our new Director of Education, for their leadership and support as well as to Stacey Mardt for expertly collating all the material and printing a unique (color-in!) prayer booklet and to Jennifer Klein for the fabulous artwork! Shaina and Mikey Berkowitz chanted beautifully from Torah! Thanks to Sara Bloom for blowing shofar and for successfully encouraging Seth Kaufmann to “mirror” her! (They did so, again, on Sunday, when Seth used his late father Andy’s shofar – publicly – for the very first time during the nature hike facilitated by Steven)
Our Yom Tov Sheni, 2nd day Rosh HaShanah morning service included Evelyn Fair’s superb chanting from Torah, Art Davis and Dave Simon blowing shofar and concluded with the annual blessing of babies born the previous year and the distribution of special gifts. It was wonderful to see a relatively large gathering of babes, older siblings, parents and grandparents!
Our service was followed by a delicious reception thanks to Wendy Stahler’s 150 (!) individually wrapped challah rolls and Ellen Levin’s apple cakes!
Wendy’s rolls were a reminder that round challot are unique to the High Holyday season. Some would say that they represent a keter, a “crown” reflecting our coronating God as Sovereign of the world. Others suggest that the circular shape points to the cyclical nature of the year. But, in truth, traditional Rosh HaShanah challot are actually meant to be spiral in shape!
The Hebrew word for “year” is “shanah,” which comes from the Hebrew word to repeat. It also means “change.” As the year goes round and round, repeating the same seasons and holidays as the year before, we are presented with a choice: do we want this “shanah,” this year to be a repetition of the last or do we consciously want to make a change, a “shinui?” Hopefully, each year we make choices for change that are positive and each year we attempt to climb higher and higher, creating a spiritual spiral of life!
The very shape, then, of the Rosh HaShanah challot reminds us that this is the time of the year to make significant, life-altering decisions. This is precisely the time to engage in a creative spiritual process that lifts us out of a repetitive cycle and directs our energies, spiraling, toward a higher end.
May this holy period between Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur grant us the ability to harness our spiritual energies and channel them in a positive and wholesome direction!
On behalf of Randy and our daughters, Hayley, Ilana and Aviva I wish you and those you love a very good and sweet New Year!
Robert
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
We are so blessed to enjoy the rich musical tradition associated with the High Holyday season. We feel emotionally attached to some of our favorite melodies because of the memories they invoke. For some of us, it is perhaps sitting next to our beloved grandparents and joining them in singing the familiar melodies or associating a particular tune with this meaningful season. Can you imagine Rosh Hashanah service without Avinu Malkeinu or Yom Kippur service without our favorite melody for Ashamnu? From one year to another, these simple tunes fill us with such deep emotions and lift our hearts with joy and hope for the future.
But if you think about High Holydays, most of the music that we love to sing is written for our prayer services. How different it is from our joyful Chanukah celebration when we gather at home around the colorful candles, playing a game of Dreidel and singing “Oh Dreidel Dreidel Dreidel” at the top of our lungs! What about Passover when sitting through a long seder, we cannot do without Dayeinu! It is not so during High Holydays as it provides us with a different experience, it is a time for individual reflection and introspection as well as providing us with a sense of belonging to the larger community. And High Holyday music reflects all of that!
I will assure you that during our traditional services you will hear and hopefully join in singing your favorite melodies. I would like to share with you a few of the new pieces that I find very meaningful. I believe they offer a new sound and a modern perspective to guide us in the year to come!
The first selection was composed by my friend and former classmate Cantor Rita Glassman. This is her take on the traditional text for Hashiveinu. Please read her beautiful words and listen to YouTube!
Turning/Hashiveinu Turning, turning, turning ‘round To the One whose love has no bounds Help us, restore us, renew us once more As You’ve done many times before Give us the strength to begin again and guide us in all that we do Help us keep faith when we lose our way ‘til we find our way back to You back to You… Ha-shi-vei-nu A-do-nay ey-leh-cha v’na-shu-vah (2x) Cha-desh ya-mei-nu, ya-mei-nu k’keh-dem, k’keh-dem.. (2x)
Happy and Healthy 5784 from my family to yours! Cantor Elena
During this very special time in our lives, Rabbi Leib, Cantor Zarkh, Steven Goldstein & your Beth Am family would like to share a special personal message. We wish all of you a Happy, Healthy, Peaceful and Comforting New Year. L'Shanah Tovah!
Here we are in the midst of these Days of Awe. And our machzor offers us the words to say when we do not know what words to say.
We may be deeply sorry. We may be deeply angry. We may be deeply hopeful. We may be deeply sad. We may be deeply grateful.
But, these days of soul-searching can find us entering a spiritual place that exists beyond words. The realm of the soul feels wholly different than the mundane world in which we usually dwell.
Similarly, though we may try to talk with God, we also understand that God only fully exists beyond human imagination and language. Everything about the beyond is wider, deeper, quieter, louder and more endless than we can conceive.
This is why our tradition has created so much art and prayer and text in which the Holy One is named so very many ways. Our Rock. Our Redeemer. The Holy One. Adonai. Elohim. Everpresent One. Hidden One. El-Shaddai. Shechinah. Ein Sof (the Infinite One)… The list goes on—our tradition says there are seventy names of God. And, seventy is a number meaning the full panoply of possibility.
We are bound by the limits of human thought, much as we are bound by time and space. And we are bound by language. But, when we want to tell of the full array of something huge, we talk about “everything from A to Z.” Certainly, we do not mean only 26 items; we do not mean an alphabetical list. We mean, everything that can be conceived—and for humans, that has to happen in language.
This alphabetization of our expression is also a tool we use on these Days of Awe, for much the same reasons.
The machzor (our high holy day prayerbook) lists an “alphabet of sins” in our “Vidui” (Confessional) portion of our worship. This is not a succinct list of all our actual sins…though it covers a lot, and as a community our deeds probably collectively represent each one.
But alphabetic acrostics can be a guide for our own personal worship and reflections. As you engage in the quiet moments of high holy day prayer, we invite you to use the alphabet and its all-encompassing aspect to help you march through the deeds of your year. The process of teshuvah exists beyond words. But, nonetheless, we can use language to draw closer to the enormity of this transformative task.
Rabbi Shoshanah Tornberg
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
After all these years, I still remember it as if it were yesterday. I concluded a public, memorial service for an individual who was going to be cremated the following day, with the chanting of “El Malei Rachamim.” In other words, I forgot to invite the attendees to join with the mourners in the recitation of the Kaddish!
I was horrified when I learned of the magnitude of by mistake after returning with the family to the waiting room. It was a daughter of the deceased who revealed my error. I was speechless. I was mortified. After regaining my composure, and after offering my profuse apologies, I asked that the mourners and their loved ones form a large circle and we promptly recited Kaddish. In the waiting room!
I recall that for several days after this very unfortunate (and clearly unforgettable!) incident, I continued to offer my sincere apologies -through both calls and emails – to the mourners.
It seemed to me that we often fail to own up to those we have wronged – deliberately or inadvertently. We tend to view the Yom Kippur imperative of “teshuvah,” repentance, through the lens of a secular new year, resolving to correct our misdeeds by never repeating them again. But that’s only part of the story. Repentance is not only about personal introspection and self-improvement. It’s about coming face-to-face with the ones we have hurt or injured – verbally or otherwise – and asking to be forgiven.
The primary aim, the major goal of Yom Kippur is not necessarily repenting but apologizing. We stand before God and recite the so-called “Vidui,” confessional, no less than ten times (traditionally speaking) throughout the day. Yom Kippur is not so much about our personal resolutions as much as it is about talking to God, as directly and as intimately as we can. It’s about apologizing and re-establishing that irrefutable though, at times, hidden connection with God. On a human level, it’s hard to come face-to-face with the person or people we have wronged. Who knows how he/she will react to our advances. Instead, we tend to play the avoidance game. Repentance is all good and well, but it must begin with sincere regret!
So, don’t forget, prior to standing before God tomorrow night, to apologize to those you have wronged!
I look forward to seeing you at our stirring, powerful Kol Nidrei service. Please don’t forget your silver-bound machzor and, if you’re accustomed to wearing it, your tallit!
I wish you, in advance, a “Tzom Kal,” an easy but meaningful fast and a “Chatimah Tovah;” that you and those you love will be sealed for good in the Book of Life.
Robert
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
Jewish people have a meaningful tradition to come together and remember their loved once. It happens 4 times a year at the end of the major holidays, on Yom Kippur, Shemini Atzeret, Passover and Shavuot. We recite Yizkor, the memorial prayers to help us remember our loved ones.
Originally, Yizkor was recited only on Yom Kippur and its main purpose was to honor the memory of our loved ones by giving the tzedakah. Doing a good deed on the Day of Atonement would help us to enhance our chances on personal atonement. Later the recitation of Yizkor was added to Shalom Regalim, the three Pilgrimage Holidays because the text of the Torah portions read on each Holiday included the mention of importance of donations and support of the Jewish causes.
This year, once again we will gather on Wednesday afternoon to hear the appropriate readings and psalms, some are read, and some are sung to help us get into the mood of this solemn service.
We will hear the sermon and I will chant El Malei Rachamim and together as a community of mourners we will recite the words of Kaddish.
This year, to enhance this awe-inspiring service, I would like to sing a new selection titled “A Mourner’s Song.” composed by Michael Ochs. Although the opening words of this song are based on the first lines of Kaddish, it ends there and the next idea comes from Psalm 23, “Ki Atah Imadi, meaning for You are with me”. Michael wrote this song while his father was suffering from the effects of a stroke and the outcome was not certain. Michael writes that he took some liberties in the translation of the lyrics. They are not at all a direct translation of the Hebrew of the Kaddish, rather these are words that came to him during his dad’s illness. When I heard this song for the first time, it made such a deep emotional impression on me that I decided to share it with you during upcoming High Holy Days. I know that this song, its enchanted melody, and meaningful lyrics which are deeply personal for Michael, will help all of us to find comfort and needed connection with our loved ones!
Wishing everyone an easy fast and a meaningful personal reflections. Cantor Elena Zarkh
Enjoy the magnificent recording of this song brilliantly sung by Cantor Shira Ginsburg!
When I was a child my parents purchased a shofar for our home. It was the horn of an ibex, long and curly and large. We—my siblings and I—loved it. We learned to blow its blasting sound. (Our dog, Simcha, was less of a fan). And, so, at a young age I thought of myself as someone who could blow shofar. But, as I grew I had the opportunity to blow other shofarot, and I learned something interesting: the ibex is the easiest to blow. Smaller, shorter shofarot are more difficult to play. There is a reason that has to do with physics and the science of how sound travels. Those are not reasons I am going to share with you today. I am going to share what we can learn about the soul from this long shofar/short shofar observation.
We blow a tiny squeak through a tiny hole. The sound travels through the cavernous tube of the animal’s horn, and it comes out the other end as music; as a calling; as a reminder; as a song. Our breath is transformed as it makes its way through the horn.
Teshuvah, too, begins small. We begin with our first, tiny reflections in the month of Elul. And the reflections and self-examination deepen as we move closer and closer to these Days of Awe. Our prayers and apologies grow. Our yearning for closeness to God and to others fills our hearts and ears. When we at last reach the closing Gates of Repentance in the Neilah service at the end of Yom Kippur, our meticulous accounting of the soul emerges with forgiveness and rebirth. Teshuvah transforms from sorrow to song.
The shorter shofar often (at least when I blow it) makes a clipped or stunted sound. And, if our teshuvah is done quickly, and without energy, focus or honesty, its song, too will fall flat.
Perhaps the longer ibex is easier, because, like teshuvah, the sound makes a long journey; it makes no shortcuts as it wends its spiral way through the horn, until, finally, it reaches the shofar’s mouth and sings of a new day.
May all our prayers and repentance cause our hearts to sing into a new year.
Rabbi Shoshanah Tornberg
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
Ah…I time to pause, refresh and take stock on this Shabbat Shuvah, the “Sabbath of Return,” the traditional name given to the Shabbat between Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur.
Tomorrow morning’s Torah portion, VaYelech, is a relatively short one, spanning only 30 verses from the 31st chapter of Deuteronomy. Moses, after delivering his farewell addresses to the people, prepares the Israelites for a future without him. Though God had treated them with justice and kindness, they had betrayed God. Nevertheless, the people would still be brought into a land “z’vat chalav u’d’vash,” flowing with milk and honey, a land that God had promised on oath to their ancestors.” (Dt. 31:20)
What a beautiful characterization of the Land of Israel: abounding in milk-producing herds, flocks and fruit trees, especially the date palm! The Hebrew word for “honey,” d’vash, usually refers to the nectar of trees. For those of us who have had the pleasure and privilege of visiting Israel, we know from firsthand experience that that ancient, biblical description is still alive to this day! If you agree with this albeit, very brief assessment, then we want to hear from you! I trust that you’re aware of the fact that our congregational-wide theme for 5783 is Israel@75. Our year-long pageant of the Promised Land effectively begins this coming Wednesday, October 5th immediately after the conclusion of the Yom Kippur morning service…
Shari Sabath, our Israel Program Coordinator, will facilitate (and participate in) a panel discussion through the personal lenses of those fellow Beth Amniks who have visited Israel. Whether you’ve been only once or ten times or more; whether you went on a Beth Am congregational tour or one through Federation or under the auspices of another Jewish organization; whether you went on a brief Birthright tour or spent an entire semester; whether you participated on a Volunteers for Israel army base, Maccabiah or went on a business trip….WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!!
Please consider participating in next week’s panel. You can speak from prepared notes or from the heart! Who and or what made the greatest impression upon you? What was your favorite destination and why? In what way was your Jewish life transformed? Or not.
Please accept this as a last minute but sincere invitation to lend your voice to Wednesday’s conversation! If you wish to participate and/or have any questions, please email Shari ASAP at ssabath@oyrtbetham.org.
Shabbat Shalom and G’mar Chatimah Tovah! Robert
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
We are about to approach Yom Kippur and hopefully have done the work to change ourselves and the world around us. Throughout the 10 Days of Repentance and High Holiday Season, we take seriously the recitation of a long confession “Al Chet” “which recounts a list of sins for which we take communal responsibility. It is interesting to learn that the Hebrew word “cheit” which we often translate as “sin” is from the root “to miss the mark”. It says to us that with a lot of practice and improving of our aim we can get it right and do better in the future!
The long confession concludes with these precious words:
Ve-al kulam Eloha selichot, selach lanu, mechal lanu, kaper lanu. For all these failures of judgment and will, God of forgiveness- forgive us, pardon us, and lead us atonement.
I would like to introduce you to a new contemporary composition by Michael Ochs, which is based on these words but in a new and creative ways. Michaels’ questions to us are helpful reminders to check in and see how we are doing and what needs to change. May this reflective song help us to ask God and each other for forgiveness and continue to commit ourselves to acting differently this coming year.
V'al Kulam Music and words by Michael Hunter Ochs Am I there for those who need me, giving of my heart completely? Have I been caring, and have I been patient? Have I forgiven without reservation?
Verse 1: Do I take my days for granted? Treated others evenhanded? And shown compassion to the homeless stranger? Have I been humble before my creator? Ve-al kulam Eloha selichot, selach lanu, mechal lanu, kaper lanu. Verse2: Have I tread lightly on the planet? Have I held fast to Your commandment? And have I raised my voice against injustice? Have I been giving or have I been selfish? Ve-al kulam Eloha selichot, selach lanu, mechal lanu, kaper lanu. I lift my eyes to the mountains. From where will my help come? My help comes from the Eternal, maker of heaven and earth. (Psalm 121)
I cannot sleep My mind swimming with What compassion requires, What the food of inspiration, Where we are going. What the dream of salvation.
These quiet hours remind me Of old Sephardi shuls And villages, The knock on the door “Selichot, Selichot” And they rose And they gathered And they prayed at the high point of the moon Inverse of the day’s sun When we dread to show our flaws in the light.
Our naked sins Held in the soft fabric of night. A kindness A mercy A soft landing As we face the morrow. And after.
Rabbi Shoshanah Tornberg
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
The story has it that at the end of an extensive two-hour interview to an audience of aspiring actors and directors, the acclaimed film director, producer and screenwriter, Steven Spielberg, was asked one last question by a young woman in the audience. She said: “I’ve heard that you put great emphasis on being able to listen. Why?”
He answered as follows: “When I was a little boy, I learned a very important Hebrew prayer called the Shema. Besides its religious message, it says to me: don’t just listen to everybody else’s voices, loud voices that want you to listen to them. You must also listen to a voice that comes from within yourself…as soft as a whisper, and even softer. Find time to hear it.”
When we gather tonight at 7:30pm for our Erev Rosh HaShanah service, with our gold-covered machzor, Mishkan HaNefesh, in hand, remind yourself of this simple but very important message. Try as hard as you can – I know that it’s much easier said than done – to filter out the extraneous noise and chatter (clutter?!) around you and, instead, try to discover the most authentic, genuine voice that resides within your soul.
Many of us are by now accustomed to the very impressive calligraphic representation of the “Shema” in both our machzor and our siddur, Mishkan T’fila. The visual image is certainly imposing but it’s the auditory response, instead, that I invite each of us to seriously consider. Ponder its deepest meaning if you can – listen for that kol d'mama daka, that still, small voice that resides within you – for there you will surely find the sounds of sanctity that will resonate throughout these next ten days and hopefully beyond.
And talking of the “Shema,” many of you have never previously seen the relatively new, large mural in the main lobby depicting a glorious, colorful, whimsical interpretation of the “Shema.” So, before entering the Molish Sanctuary, please be sure to take the time to view the mural. You’ll be suitably impressed! Please note that tonight’s service – as has been our custom for several years already – will include an extended service of healing and comfort.
Whether you choose to join with us in-person (it would be SO wonderful to see your punims again!!) or watch on Livestream, I sincerely hope that these High Holy Days of 5783 will uplift us all.
My family joins with me in wishing you and all those you love the healthiest and sweetest of blessings throughout the New Year.
Shanah Tovah u’Metukah! Rabbi Robert Leib
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
During this very special time in our lives, Rabbi Leib, Rabbi Tornberg, and Cantor Zarkh would like to share a special personal message with our Beth Am family. We wish all of you a Happy, Healthy, Peaceful and Comforting New Year. L'Shanah Tovah!
Simchat Torah services will be held in-person and on Livestream. CLICK HERE for Livestream.
IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO ATTEND SERVICES IN PERSON, EVERYONE OVER THE AGE OF 2 MUST PROPERLY WEAR A MASK AND ADULTS MUST PROVIDE PROOF OF VACCINATION.
Erev Simchat Torah Service Monday, September 27, 7:00 PM In-person and Livestream Honoring all 5782 b. mitzvah students and their families. A sweet surprise for those attending!
Simchat Torah Service Tuesday, September 28, 10:00 AM In-person andLivestream Join Rabbi Tornberg and Cantor Zarkh for a celebration of Simchat Torah and a full Yizkor memorial service. _________________________________________________
HIGH HOLY DAY FOOD DRIVE
We will be collecting the following food items dring the month of September:
Old York Road Temple - Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001 215-886-8000
Questions? execdirector@oyrtbetham.org
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IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO ATTEND SERVICES IN PERSON, EVERYONE OVER THE AGE OF 2 MUST PROPERLY WEAR A MASK AND ADULTS MUST PROVIDE PROOF OF VACCINATION.
SUKKOT Sisterhood Sukkot Program Thursday, September 23, 7:00 PM on Zoom
CLICK HERE to join Zoom Meeting ID: 678 497 4306 Passcode: 428523
“… all whose hearts moved them … came bringing gifts…” Exodus 35:22.
During the Israelites’ journey in the desert, they were commanded to build a Tabernacle and the people willingly contributed their possessions and skills to construct it. Please be prepared with something hand-made, whether made by you or someone else. When sharing about your object, consider not only who made it and how it was made but the spirit with which it was made. ________________________________________________
Visit the Beth Am Sukkah! Feel free to stop by the Beth Am parking lot anytime through Sunday, October 3 to enjoy the Sukkah decorations and celebrate the fall harvest. Come and shake the lulov and etrog in all directions to show that God is everywhere. ________________________________________________
SIMCHAT TORAH
Young Family Simchat Torah Journey Monday, September 27, 5:00 PM Pizza dinner and musical event with Ms. Amy Jo in the sanctuary. $10/per family. Adults in attendance must provide proof of vaccination and masks are required for ages 2 and up.Please RSVP to Sherrie, sturetsky@oyrtbetham.org by September 23.
Erev Simchat Torah Service Monday, September 27, 7:00 PM In-person and Livestream Horing all 5782 b. mitzvah students and their families. A sweet surprise for those attending!
Simchat Torah Service Tuesday, September 28, 10:00 AM In-person and Livestream Join Rabbi Tornberg and Cantor Zarkh for a celebration of Simchat Torah and a full Yizkor memorial service. ________________________________________________
HIGH HOLY DAY FOOD DRIVE
We will be collecting the following food items through the month of September:
Cheerios whole grain oats Gluten Free Breakfast cereal, 8.9 oz.
Kosher Strawberry Preserves 12 oz. jar
If you are unable to get to the Temple, please contact Sandie Buller at sandiecb@aol.com to arrange a pickup.
Your text goes here!
If you have not yet made your High Holy Day pledge, please consider donating by clicking HERE. Choose "High Holy Day Pledge" from the dropdown menu (under "Type").
Old York Road Temple - Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001 215-886-8000
Questions? execdirector@oyrtbetham.org
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error, please notify the system manager. This message contains confidential information and is intended only for the individual named. If you are not the named addressee, you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this email. Please notify the sender immediately by email if you have received this email by mistake and delete this email from your system. If you are not the intended recipient, you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
This morning's Sukkot service can be found on Zoom. Please click on link below to attend.
Sukkot Morning Tuesday, September 21, 10:00 AM on Zoom Join Rabbi Tornberg and Cantor Zarkh on Zoom for a celebration of Sukkot.
CLICK HERE for Zoom MEETING ID: 827 3745 2403 PASSWORD: 959452
_______________________________________________
Sisterhood Sukkot Program Thursday, September 23, 7:00 PM on Zoom “… all whose hearts moved them … came bringing gifts…” Exodus 35:22.
During the Israelites’ journey in the desert, they were commanded to build a Tabernacle and the people willingly contributed their possessions and skills to construct it. Please be prepared with something hand-made, whether made by you or someone else. When sharing about your object, consider not only who made it and how it was made but the spirit with which it was made. Please RSVP to Evelyn Fair at evefair@hotmail.comby Monday, September 20.
Zoom link will be forthcoming. _________________________________________________
HIGH HOLY DAY FOOD DRIVE
We will be collecting the following food items dring the month of September:
Old York Road Temple - Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001 215-886-8000
Questions? execdirector@oyrtbetham.org
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error, please notify the system manager. This message contains confidential information and is intended only for the individual named. If you are not the named addressee, you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this email. Please notify the sender immediately by email if you have received this email by mistake and delete this email from your system. If you are not the intended recipient, you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO ATTEND YOM KIPPUR SERVICES IN PERSON, EVERYONE OVER THE AGE OF 2 MUST PROPERLY WEAR A MASK AND ADULTS MUST PROVIDE PROOF OF VACCINATION.
PLEASE BE SURE TO BRING YOUR SILVER PRAYER BOOK.
Young Family Yom Kippur Journey Wednesday, September 15, 4:00 PM (in-person only) Scheduled for the courtyard (weather permitting) or Temple Beth Torah Chapel if needed. Start the Holiday off with the sound of Kol Nidrei. Let us move and sway to the ancieny melody, act out scenarios that include times when we say, "I'm sorry," and hear the loud call of the Shofar.
*Kol Nidrei Wednesday, September 15, 7:30 PM In-person and Livestream Sermon by Rabbi Leib Opening with the iconic music of "Kol Nidrei" performed by cellist Genevieve Tabby and Cantor Zarkh. Please remember to wear your tallit, if that is your custom!
*Yom Kippur Morning Service Thursday, September 16, 10:00 AM In-person and Livestream Sermon by Rabbi Tornberg Join us as we honor all past and present teaching professionals with a group Aliyah.
Teen and Tween BAFTY Yom Kippur Experience Thursday, September 16, 10:00 AM (in-person only) For grades 6-12. Scheduled for the courtyard (weather permitting) or Temple Beth Torah Chapel if needed. The theme this year is "Coming Together." How can we do better together?
*Family Service Thursday, September 16, 1:30 PM In-person and Livestream Enjoy a story by Rabbi Leib! Join the clergy, who will facilitate age-appropriate prayers and activities reflecting on the meaning of the day.
*Minchah (Afternoon Service) Thursday, September 16, 3:00-4:00 PM (LIVESTREAM ONLY) Join our clergy on Livestream(no in-person services) for a creative approach to cleansing the soul in the new year. Please have a bowl of clean water handy for this experience!
*Yizkor (Memorial Service) Thursday, September 16, 5:00 PM In-person and Livestream The Book of Remembrance will be distributed at the service. If you are not planning to attend in person, you can pick up a copy by the parking lot doors of the synagogue.
*Neilah (Conlcuding Service) Thursday, September 16, 6:00 PM In-person and Livestream Please join us as we conclude our Yom Kippur celebration with the final blowing of the shofar and Havdalah. Brotherhood sponsored "Grab-and-Go" break the fast bags will be provided for you as you leave. ________________________________________________
SUKKOT
Young Family Sukkah Decorating Saturday, September 18, 4:00-5:00 PM Bring a decoration or make decorations with us to hang in our Sukkah! Erev Sukkot Monday, September 20, 6:00-8:00 PM All 8-12 graders are welcome to join BAFTY in the Beth Am Sukkah to eat some popcorn, hang out, and decorate! RSVP to Jamie Madnick at youthgroup@oyrtbetham.org.
Sukkot Morning Tuesday, September 21, 10:00 AM on Zoom Join Rabbi Tornberg and Cantor Zarkh on Zoom for a celebration of Sukkot. CLICK HERE for Zoom MEETING ID: 827 3745 2403 PASSWORD: 959452
Sisterhood Sukkot Program Thursday, September 23, 7:00 PM on Zoom “… all whose hearts moved them … came bringing gifts…” Exodus 35:22.
During the Israelites’ journey in the desert, they were commanded to build a Tabernacle and the people willingly contributed their possessions and skills to construct it. Please be prepared with something hand-made, whether made by you or someone else. When sharing about your object, consider not only who made it and how it was made but the spirit with which it was made. Please RSVP to Evelyn Fair at evefair@hotmail.comby Monday, September 20.
Zoom link will be forthcoming. _________________________________________________
HIGH HOLY DAY FOOD DRIVE
We will be collecting the following food items dring the month of September:
Old York Road Temple - Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001 215-886-8000
Questions? execdirector@oyrtbetham.org
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error, please notify the system manager. This message contains confidential information and is intended only for the individual named. If you are not the named addressee, you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this email. Please notify the sender immediately by email if you have received this email by mistake and delete this email from your system. If you are not the intended recipient, you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
Some of you might recall that for over 16 years, my wife Randy, our three daughters, Hayley, Ilana and Aviva and I used to live in the Justa Farm area of Huntingdon Valley. Our home on Dogwood Lane was architecturally described as a “contemporary” one with the master bedroom, combined living and dining room, kitchen and den on the main floor and all the other bedrooms down in the basement. At the top of the landing, a spiral staircase ascended to a loft which I converted into a home office.
Who knew that we were destined to live in a home with a “shvindel trep,” the Yiddish for a spiral staircase! Actually, the literal translation is “swindling steps!” Why? Because when you climb a regular vertical staircase, you see yourself getting closer to the destination as you climb the stairs. A spiral staircase, on the other hand, “swindles” you into thinking that, at times, you have stopped climbing and may even be regressing because as you get closer to the destination you have to turn completely round, in a 360-degree turn, to the point where you cannot see the apex. As you climb, at each revolution you make, you turn your back to the destination, and just before you reach the top, you must turn completely around for the last time. At that point, with you being unable to see your destination, you may give up and feel that you haven’t made any progress. Even though you are but a step away from your goal, you may stop climbing…the key is to always remember, even when your eyes cannot see it and your heart cannot feel it, that you are on a climbing spiral staircase, and you must continue to move.
For all you know you may feel the need to just make one more turn to reach your intended objective. *
Tonight, we usher in the most solemn 25-hour period in the Jewish calendar. The obligation of praying, atoning and fasting at length might seem like an arduous journey on a shvindel trep: an exhausting ascent and one seemingly without end!
Nevertheless, the rocky road to repentance – climbing a long, steep, spiral staircase – reminds us that we dare not turn our backs to the destination at hand. Our goal on Yom Kippur is, after all, to try and reach the peak of moral rectitude and personal contrition.
And the only way to ascend this Yontiff’s shvindel trep is to descend into the innermost depths of your soul!
Whether you choose to be with us in person or on Livestream, our service for Kol Nidrei begins tonight at 7:30pm. Please don’t forget to have your silver-covered machzor, Mishkan HaNefesh, with you and, if it’s your custom, your tallit, too!
Rabbi Tornberg and Cantor Zarkh join with me in wishing you all a “Tzom Kal,” an easy but meaningful fast. Robert
* I first came cross this analogy for life’s cycles on “MLC,” The Meaningful Life Center. www.meaningfullife.com
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
Every year before the High Holy Days I look for new material to add to our services. I especially search for the music that is new and exciting but which deeply honors what has come before.
This year I was so fortunate to come across a beautiful piece of music composed by Cantor Natalie Young. The text is B’Sefer Chayim, a lengthy insertion in the traditional High Holy Day prayers for peace that comes at the end of T’filah. In the evening services it is added to Shalom Rav and in the morning it is part of Sim Shalom. “B’Sefer Chayim b’rachah v’shalom, u’farnasa tovah, nizacheir v’nikateiv l’fanecha anachnu v’chol amcha beit Yisrael l’chayim tovim ul’shalom.” In the Book of Life, blessing, peace, and prosperity, may we be remembered and inscribed by You, we and all Your people Israel for a good life and for peace.
What I love about this piece is the mastery with which Natalie is able to fuse the sacred text with a beautiful, heartfelt, and accessible melody. The words of our plea to be heard, remembered, and live peacefully come alive and reflect the deep nature of the prayer. Each word is important and is given a meaningful musical expression. Once I heard it, I had to play it again and again and again! I hope this year to add this melody to our High Holy Day repertoire.
Enjoy Natalie Young’s soulful rendition of B’Sefer Chayim.
Please read the following poem in a “u” shape: read from top left down, across the bottom and up the right side to the top right. If reading on a phone, please read in landscape. ~ Rabbi Shoshanah Tornberg
The shofar is a broken
thing
Once held aloft by a head home.
It got ahead of itself to wend our way
And tumbled leaving space for us
Rite-ward It echoes brokenlikeourhearts
And now it calls Each of these long strange days
A broken call. We chase after it
Disparate sounds and deep follows deep
Seeking
Wholeness -- Shalom
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
I recall that several years ago there was an intense, internal debate at Beth Am as to whether we should sanction or prohibit the use of cellphones at one of our BAFTY (Beth Am Federation of Temple Youth) High Holyday services. The controversy arose because the thought was that those in attendance would be actively encouraged to bring and use their smart phones to try and answer some thought-provoking questions posed by the service leaders.
In contradistinction to that Yontiff conundrum, Yom Kippur is not only the most powerful day in Israel, for example, it is also the most power-less day!
It is the one day in the Jewish year, more than Shabbat or even Pesach, even more than Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha’Atzmaut when the Zionist dream can be truly realized. So suggests Rabbi Josh Weinberg, Executive Director of ARZA, the Association of Reform Zionists of America. “It is a day when everyone stops. No one works (except essential military and medical personnel), no one drives, and the entire country experiences a Zen-like 25-hour state of quiet. The synagogues are full, and people pour out into the streets to ride bikes on traffic-less throughfares and to greet each other in the greatest schmooze-fest of the year.”
An Israeli-experienced Yom Kippur is much more than cheshbon hanefesh, about personal introspection and repentance. In a rather curious way, it’s actually about the fate of the entire world. For if the world was created on Rosh HaShanah, then the world can be saved on Yom Kippur!
Yes, we the Jewish people are meant to be – quite literally - an “Or La’Goyim,” a light unto the nations! Yes, Israel invented the cherry tomato, drip irrigation, Waze and the PillCam aside from many other extraordinary innovations but what if we were to think of Yom Kippur as an “invention” whereby an entire country powers off?
Rabbi Weinberg posits the fascinating question: “What would it look like if every country had a Yom Kippur? Yes, it’s never a bad idea for every human to seek forgiveness, and re-revaluate one’s behavior but what if the entire planet powered off one day a year? One day with no planes, trains or automobiles, no restaurants or shopping malls, no factories or offices. A no-traffic, no-industry 25-hour period of….quiet! And what would happen if they did that twice a year? Once a week? How much energy would we save? How much carbon would we offset?”
As we now prepare, this coming week, for the great day of judgment, repentance, forgiveness and deep soul searching, let us also try our very best to internalize the power of Yom Kippur! Israeli style!
Let’s try, Beth Am, to “power-off” – when and where possible - this coming Wednesday night through Thursday night!
Robert
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
We are about to say goodbye to a special Shabbat, Shabbat Shuvah, which occurs between the Ten Days of Repentance. It is fully dedicated to the notion of Return and Repentance when we are still given a chance to renew our commitment to our values and ideals. Before the gates are closed on Yom Kippur, we need to engage in this sacred work. As the sun sets, we prepare to commemorate the twentieth year of an event that changed the world and changed our lives forever. We hope that many of you will join us on Zoom to remember those who perished on that “9/11” day, and we will do so through readings, music, and personal testimonies.
As we say goodbye to this Shabbat and get ready for the evening program, I would like to share with you an exquisite song titled “A Mourner’s Song” composed by one of my favorite Jewish composers Michael Ochs. Although it begins with the opening verse from the Kaddish, the words of the chorus are based on a verse from Psalm 23“ ki atah imadi, for You are with me”. In his notes about his song, Michael wrote” May these words bring comfort to those who mourn and a sense of connection to those we have lost”.
Here are the words to the song:
Like the waves upon the sea are sep’rate and connected,
You are gone but still by my side.
As the seasons must change, to dust we must return again.
But love, love, love never dies.
For you are here with me.
Ki Atah Imadi, for You are here with me.
I hope the sound of this exquisite song brilliantly performed by Cantor Shira Ginsburg will help us transition from the beauty and peacefulness of Shabbat to this evening’s commemoration and remembrance of all those who perished on that day.
Tonight, we usher in “Shabbat Shuvah,” the so-called “Sabbath of Return,” the traditional name given to the Sabbath between Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur.
As such, this might be regarded as the most spiritually intense time in the Jewish calendar as we now begin to focus our attention on the impending Day of Atonement. This is now the time for each and every one of us to really attune our hearts and our minds to the hard, difficult, urgent, pressing work of forgiveness.
With that in mind, I’d like to share this poem with you written by Rabbis Jack Riemer and Harold Kushner. It’s called “Listen.”
Judaism essentially begins with the commandment: “Sh’ma Yisrael.” “Hear, O Israel!” But what does it really mean to hear? The person who attends a concert with a mind on business, hears – but does not really hear. The person who walks amid the songs of birds and thinks only of what will be served for dinner, hears – but does not really hear. The one who listens to the words of a friend, or spouse, or child and does not catch the note of urgency: “notice me, help me, care about me,” hears – but does not really hear. The person who listens to the news and thinks only of how it will affect business, hears – but does not really hear. The person who stifles the sound of conscience and thinks “I have done enough already,” hears – but does not really hear. The person who hears the Cantor sing those inspiring, uplifting and beloved Yontiff melodies but does not feel moved to join in prayer, hears - but does not really hear. And this is a really good one…. The person who listens to the Rabbi’s sermon and thinks that someone else is being addressed, hears – but does not really hear!!
On this Shabbat Shuvah, O God, sharpen our ability to hear.
May we hear the music of the world and the infant’s cry and the lover’s sigh. May we hear the call for help of the lonely soul, and the sound of the breaking heart. May we hear the words of our friends and also their unspoken pleas and dreams. May we hear within ourselves the yearnings that are struggling for expression. May we hear You, O God. For if only we hear You do we have the right to hope that You will hear us. Hear the prayers we will offer to You this Shabbat, O God, and may we hear them too.
I wish us all the strength, courage and determination to search deeply into our souls and truly listen to that primordial watchword of our faith, the Sh’ma!
Shabbat Shalom and Ketivah v’Chatimah Tovah! Robert
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
In the Talmud (Horayot 12a), the Rabbis teach about a seder we often forget: a seder for Rosh Hashanah:
Abaye taught: … each person should make it a habit to eat at the beginning of the year, kara [gourds, e.g. pumpkins or cucumbers], rubia [fenugreek, a seed herb], karte [leeks], silka [beets] and tamrey [dates].
We learn from Rabbi Hai Gaon (10th century) that at that time a custom was observed in which a short prayer was said over each of these foods that highlighted a wordplay between the name of the food and what we wish for our lives in the new year. This custom has continued more strongly in Sephardic circles, while it is believed this is the source of the Ashkenazic custom of eating apples and honey for a sweet new year.
As you might imagine this works most effectively when the wordplay is understood in the vernacular of the Jews participating. With a giggle, I call to mind the Rosh HaShanah my friend served us a salad with raisins and celery—in the hopes that that coming year would include a “raise in salary.”
This lesser-known tradition invites us to bring our humor and our creativity to our particular place and moment in time.
Here are a few ideas:
1. Beans – that we might understand where we have “been” in the past year. 2. Lettuce – that the Holy One might “let us” emerge from a pandemic. 3. Greens – that we might find success in “green”ing our environment. 4. Squash – that we might “squash” racism. 5. Beer – The West is ablaze, so let’s symbolically douse the burning (be’ira הריעב in Hebrew) by drinking beer (bira הריב in Hebrew).
Even though the holiday was a few days ago, which ones can you invent? Not only which foods would you include, but which hopes and goals do you want to make part of this ritual?
Rabbi Shoshanah Tornberg
Old York Road Temple-Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
During this very special time in our lives, Rabbi Leib, Rabbi Tornberg, and Cantor Zarkh would like to share a special personal message with our Beth Am family. We wish all of you a Happy, Healthy, Peaceful and Comforting New Year. L'Shanah Tovah!
BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR EMAIL EVERY WEDNESDAY FOR MORE HIGH HOLY DAY INFORMATION
HIGH HOLY DAY SERVICE INFORMATION As of now, High Holy Day services will be a hybrid of in person and virtual. PLEASE CONTINUE TO CHECK YOUR EMAILS FOR ANY CHANGES/UPDATES. In person services will be limited to congregants only - we are unable to offer in person services to guests, including extended family who are non-members. There will be no tickets this year and check-in will be verified at the door.
To attend any High Holy Day service, everyone over the age of 2 must properly wear a mask and adults must provide proof of vaccination.If you have not already sent us a copy of your vaccination card, please be prepared to show your card at the door.
*Erev Rosh HaShanah Monday, September 6, 7:30 PM Rabbi Tornberg will share two, short sermonic reflections The service will include a special "Mi Shebeirach" - Prayer for Healing.
*Rosh HaShanah Morning Service Tuesday, September 7, 10:00 AM Sermon by Rabbi Leib Join us as we honor all essential medical workers with a group Aliyah.
Teen and Tween BAFTY Rosh HaShanah Experience Tuesday, September 7, 10:00 AM (in-person only) Scheduled for the courtyard (weather permitting) or Temple Beth Torah Chapel if needed. "New Year, New Normal, New Me."
*Family Service Tuesday, September 7, 2:00 PM Join all our clergy for a short, engaging, and meaningful holiday celebration and service. Enjoy a Rosh HaShanah story told by Rabbi Tornberg.
Tashlich Join our clergy for Tashlich as follows: Rabbi Leib Tuesday, September 7, 4:15 PM At the Tookany Creek bridge on High School Road in Elkins Park.
Cantor Zarkh Tuesday, September 7, 4:15 PM At the home of Penny and Paul Anderson 1406 Valley Road, Meadowbrook, PA 19046.
Rabbi Tornberg Wednesday, September 8, 2:00 PM Raindate: Thursday, September 9 At Ann's Choice in Warminster by the Liberty Courtyard fountain.
Young Family Rosh HaShanah Journey Wednesday, September 8, 9:00-11:00 AM Weather permitting on the SOEL playground. Join us for lots of Rosh HaShanah activities.
*Second Day Rosh HaShanah Service Wednesday, September 8, 10:00 AM Led by Rabbi Leib and Cantor Zarkh with sermon by Rabbi Lynnda Targan.
Nature Walk with Rabbi Tornberg Wednesday, September 8, 10:00 AM Looking for an alternative spiritual experience for your Rosh HaShanah celebration? Join Rabbi Tornberg at Pennypack Trail (798 Welsh Road - parking lot next to the Huntingdon Valley Post Office) for hiking, learning, reflection and meditation. If you're planning to attend the nature walk, please RSVP to the main office, Stacey Mardt:smardt@oyrtbetham.org; (215) 886-8000. ________________________________________________
Old York Road Temple - Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001 215-886-8000
Questions? execdirector@oyrtbetham.org
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error, please notify the system manager. This message contains confidential information and is intended only for the individual named. If you are not the named addressee, you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this email. Please notify the sender immediately by email if you have received this email by mistake and delete this email from your system. If you are not the intended recipient, you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR EMAIL EVERY WEDNESDAY FOR MORE HIGH HOLY DAY INFORMATION
HIGH HOLY DAY SERVICE INFORMATION As of now, High Holy Day services will be a hybrid of in person and virtual. PLEASE CONTINUE TO CHECK YOUR EMAILS FOR ANY CHANGES/UPDATES. In person services will be limited to congregants only - we are unable to offer in person services to guests, including extended family who are non-members. There will be no tickets this year and check-in will be verified at the door.
To attend any High Holy Day service, everyone over the age of 2 must properly wear a mask and adults must provide proof of vaccination. Please be prepared to show your vaccination card, or to streamline the check-in process, you may email a copy in advance to smardt@oyrtbetham.org. ________________________________________________
*Erev Rosh HaShanah Monday, September 6, 7:30 PM Rabbi Tornberg will share two, short sermonic reflections The service will include a special "Mi Shebeirach" - Prayer for Healing.
*Rosh HaShanah Morning Service Tuesday, September 7, 10:00 AM Sermon by Rabbi Leib Join us as we honor all essential medical workers with a group Aliyah.
Teen and Tween BAFTY Rosh HaShanah Experience Tuesday, September 7, 10:00 AM (in-person only) Scheduled for the courtyard (weather permitting) or Temple Beth Torah Chapel if needed. "New Year, New Normal, New Me."
*Family Service Tuesday, September 7, 2:00 PM Join all our clergy for a short, engaging, and meaningful holiday celebration and service. Enjoy a Rosh HaShanah story told by Rabbi Tornberg.
Tashlich Join our clergy for Tashlich as follows: Rabbi Leib Tuesday, September 7, 4:15 PM At the Tookany Creek bridge on High School Road in Elkins Park.
Cantor Zarkh Tuesday, September 7, 4:15 PM At the home of Penny and Paul Anderson 1406 Valley Road, Meadowbrook, PA 19046.
Rabbi Tornberg Wednesday, September 8, 2:00 PM Raindate: Thursday, September 9 At Ann's Choice in Warminster by the Liberty Courtyard fountain.
Young Family Rosh HaShanah Journey Wednesday, September 8, 9:00-11:00 AM Weather permitting on the SOEL playground. Join us for lots of Rosh HaShanah activities.
*Second Day Rosh HaShanah Service Wednesday, September 8, 10:00 AM Led by Rabbi Leib and Cantor Zarkh with sermon by Rabbi Lynnda Targan.
Nature Walk with Rabbi Tornberg Wednesday, September 8, 10:00 AM Looking for an alternative spiritual experience for your Rosh HaShanah celebration? Join Rabbi Tornberg at Pennypack Trail (798 Welsh Road - parking lot next to the Huntingdon Valley Post Office) for hiking, learning, reflection and meditation. If you're planning to attend the nature walk, please RSVP to the main office, Stacey Mardt:smardt@oyrtbetham.org; (215) 886-8000. ________________________________________________
HIGH HOLY DAY FOOD DRIVE
Each year at the Jewish Holidays, Beth Am participates in the annual High Holy Day Food Drive.
We will be collecting the following food items dring the month of September:
Cheerios whole grain oats Gluten Free Breakfast cereal, 8.9 oz.
Kosher Strawberry Preserves 12 oz. jar
Please drop off your donations when you come to the Temple for services or meetings, or in the bin at the back door. We also ask that you check the expiration date before donation.
If you are unable to get to the Temple, please contact Sandie Buller at sandiecb@aol.com to arrange a pickup.
Old York Road Temple - Beth Am 971 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001 215-886-8000
Questions? execdirector@oyrtbetham.org
This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error, please notify the system manager. This message contains confidential information and is intended only for the individual named. If you are not the named addressee, you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this email. Please notify the sender immediately by email if you have received this email by mistake and delete this email from your system. If you are not the intended recipient, you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited.
