OK, Friends, I'll put this up for the month of January and then I'm closing down on this site. Go to www.buildingjewishbridges.org to follow Jewish activities and Interfaith programming in the San Francisco Bay Area! See you soon!
Dawn Kepler
(510) 845-6420 x11
dawn@buildingjewishbridges.org
Thursday, January 01, 2009
Thursday, November 20, 2008
I’m culturally Jewish
“I’m culturally Jewish.” Most Jews say this. What does it mean? It means different things to different people. The common thread is, “I don’t believe in God.” Let’s not even go into what “God” means; let’s jump right to what does “cultural” mean? For the non-Jewish partner this can be like a visit to a nonexistent country - a series of no statements. No God, no ritual, no prayers, no spirituality, no belonging. The non-Jewish partner may begin to believe that this means we can have an American home - but then the Jew adds some more Nos - no Christmas, no church services, no carols that include Jesus. Now “cultural” sounds stingy and flavorless.
The Jewish partner may try to explain Jewish culture. If it’s a meeting between me and the couple this is often when the Jewish partner turns to me and says, “You know, Jewish culture.”
So what the devil is “Jewish culture?” First the bad news, it comes from Jewish religion. There is no food, music, art, dance or even language that is universal to all Jews everywhere. What is universal is the religion of Judaism. BUT! Now the good news, where ever Jews went on the planet they took their religion and adapted it to the host country, creating a Jewish version of that place - i.e. Jewish culture. So you have the Jewish culture of Mexico and the Jewish culture of Morocco and so on – each with their own food, music, language, etc.
So when the Jewish partner says, “I’m culturally Jewish” there’s a lot to explore.
What country or countries does the Jew in question come from? I met a man a couple weeks ago who was born in Iran, his family moved to Israel when he was a little boy and then to the US when he was a teen. So he has multiple languages, foods, music, etc. to share with his soon to be spouse.
My sister-in-law’s family came from Tunisia. The family was expelled when her parents were young adults and fled to France. Her wedding to my Ashkenazi brother-in-law included Arab, French and American elements. The food, all kosher, was Middle Eastern at one of the banquets and French at another. Her parents speak three languages - Arabic, Hebrew, and French plus few words of English. The bridal parties included belly dancing and henna. My sister-in-law thinks American Jews eat too much “white food!” Bagels, challah and gefilte fish all horrify her. And why have a fiddle when you can use a drum?
What is YOUR Jewish culture?
Begin by exploring your roots. Most American Jews are Ashkenazi - that is, originating from Eastern Europe and from a community that spoke Yiddish. Go to the Jewish museums, music festivals, art & food fairs and find the elements that represent “Jewish” to you. That’s your Jewish culture. It will probably include Klezmer music, bagels, Yiddishisms, and images of bearded men dressed in long black coats. None of this would be culturally appropriate for my sister-in-law but it will be for the majority of American Jews.
Buy recordings of old Jewish comedians - and new/young ones. Talk about why the jokes are funny. Don’t assume that everyone gets the jokes you get. (I was at a Jewish conference a few years back and there was a Jewish comedian entertaining us. We were roaring. The young Hispanic facilities man sat by handling the sound with a placid expression. Finally the comedian turned to him after a wonderful bris joke and said, “So, you getting any of this?” “No,” smiled the man.)
Catch Jewish art exhibits when they are in town. A Chagall exhibit was in San Francisco about a year ago. Watch the paper.
There is an annual Jewish Music Festival that is managed out of the Berkeley JCC but has performances all around the bay. Check them out online at:
http://www.jcceastbay.org/jcc/jewish_music_festival.htm
The Judah L. Magnes Museum in Berkeley has rotating exhibits. Go for a visit. Get info online at: http://www.magnes.org/
Check out the new Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco: www.thecjm.org
One of the easiest ways to learn is by watching a film. The fantastic San Francisco Jewish Film Festival comes every year, get a brochure or look online at: www.sfjff.org
San Jose and Contra Costa also have film festivals so you don’t have to go far from home to see a film.
Contra Costa: www.eastbayjewishfilm.org/
Silicon Valley: www.sjjff.org
Or just go rent an old film and watch it with an interpretive eye. Explain the details.
Try any Mel Brooks film -
The Producers
The Frisco Kid
The History of the World: Part one
Exodus
Fiddler on the Roof
Old black and white Yiddish films like The Dybbuk or Yidl Mitn Fidl.
Modern films from around the world.
Being Jewish in France
The Year My Parents Went on Vacation
All of these can start conversations about what it means to be Jewish, for the most part, without a religious component. Religion exists on the sides of some of these films, just the way it hovers on the side of the lives of cultural Jews.
There are some good cultural things going on right now – take a look.
EVENTS
Exhibition of Italian Ritual Objects and Manuscripts (San Francisco)
Young Family Shabbat (Redwood City)
Miriam’s Well (Berkeley)
Redwood Symphony (Los Altos)
Jewish PJ Party For Very Young Children (El Cerrito)
Interfaith Thanksgiving Eve Celebration and Pie Social (Lafayette)
Abracadabra: Jews & Magic (San Francisco)
Jewish Book Group (Redwood City)
Singing to God: Shabbat Music (Oakland)
Chopshticks (Palo Alto)
Exhibition of Italian Ritual Objects and Manuscripts
From November 3 to January 29 the Jewish Community Library will exhibit silver and brass ritual objects, facsimiles of illuminated manuscripts, ketubbot (marriage contracts), letters, and other historical documents from the Italian holdings of the Judah L. Magnes Museum.
Place: BJE Jewish Community Library, 1835 Ellis Street, San Francisco
www.bjesf.org
Call for hours and details Ph: 415.567.3327 x706
Young Family Shabbat
A Shabbat dinner for families with children. Following a brief service.
Date: Friday, November 21
Time: 6:15pm Services in the Chapel
7:00pm Dinner in the Social Hall
Place: Congregation Beth Jacob, 1550 Alameda de las Pulgas, Redwood City
Cost: Adults $14.00 each
Kids (ages 4 – 12) $9.00 each
Little kids (ages 2 – 3) $3.00 each
Please make your dinner reservation with payment to Congregation Beth Jacob office by 5:00pm on Wednesday, November 19.
www.bethjacobrwc.org
Miriam’s Well
Interweaving dance, live music, poetry and sacred text; the stories of three visionary women gather communal waters from the universal well. These stories of Mary, Maryam, and Miriam from the Christian, Muslim, and Jewish traditions illumine the commonality and interconnectedness of these three traditions through a shared story and archetype. Drawing on traditional expressive arts and ritual, as well as contemporary theater and dance technique, Miriam's Well emotionally engages the audience in a rich image of shared heritage.
Date: Saturday, November 22
Time: 8:30 pm
Place: Julia Morgan Theater, 2640 College Ave, Berkeley
Tickets: $24 in advance, $28 at the door
Advance sales tickets available through Brown Paper Tickets' 24/7 ticket hotline: 800-838-3006, or online at www.brownpapertickets.com
Created by Miriam Peretz. In collaboration with Qadim Ensemble, Ya Elah, Salokhiddin Fakhriev, Manar Azriek, Wan-Chao Chang and Hannah Romanowsky
Redwood Symphony
Come hear a rich sampling of works by Jewish composers. Osvaldo Golijov channels Klezmer to create a new musical form; Lukas Foss pays tribute to the first-known Jewish composer, Salamone Rossi; Philip Glass's Suite from The Hours; Steve Reich's Tehillim, sung in Hebrew. Pre-concert lecture at 2 p.m.
Date: Sunday, Nov. 23
Time: 2pm lecture, 3pm concert
Place: Beth Am sanctuary, 26790 Arastradero Road, Los Altos Hills
Tickets: Adult $25 ($20 in advance); Children under 16 and students with ID $10; Children 12 and under Free with adult. Advance tickets: by credit card, online only, at http://www.redwoodsymphony.org. Tickets ordered online will be held at the door. By mail, send check to Redwood Symphony, 1031 16th Ave., Redwood City, 94063 with a self addressed, stamped envelope, or ask that the paid tickets be held at the door.
Jewish PJ Party For Very Young Children
Bubbles, songs, stories, snacks. Learn about the Jewish way of welcoming the new week, Havdalah. Wear your pj's and bring a blankie or stuffed animal. FREE. For children 0-5 and their families.
Date: Nov 23
Time: 10:30am-noon
Place: Jewish Gateways, El Cerrito
For more info or to rsvp contact Rabbi Bridget Wynne at 510-559-8140 or rabbibridget@jewishgateways.org.
Interfaith Thanksgiving Eve Celebration and Pie Social
Lamorinda congregations come together to give thanks in this interfaith service reflecting the many traditions represented: United Methodist, Episcopal, Lutheran, Catholic, United Church of Christ, Jewish, Baha'i, and Christian Science. A stunning procession of singers, banners and dancers will open this unique service, as Temple Isaiah calls us together with the blowing of the shofar and the Baha'i community sings a blessing over our shared space. A choir of singers from several faiths will provide special music, and liturgical dancers will embrace the community in movement. The sermon will be delivered by The Rev. Stephen McHale, Faith Formation Minister of the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection.
All are encouraged to bring a pie or dessert to share. The offering that night will benefit the Winter Nights Shelter.
Date: Wednesday, November 26
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Place: Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette
Sponsored by Lamorinda Interfaith Ministerial Association
(925) 283-3722 www.oslc.net
If you want to go with Temple Isaiah members you can call Michael at the synagogue office and ask to be included with them. You can reach Michael at 925-283-8575.
Abracadabra: Jews & Magic
Both powerful and fun, the art of magic challenges the mind, stimulates the imagination and creates a bridge between illusion and reality. Join cantor, magician and historian Manny Sperling for a spellbinding afternoon of entertainment as he hosts a multimedia homage to legendary Jewish magicians from Houdini and Ballantine to Copperfield and Blaine.
Not recommended for young children.
Date: Sun, Dec 7
Time: 2:00pm
Place: JCC of San Francisco, 3200 California St., San Francisco
Cost: $20/JCC members, $25/non-members
Call for tickets 415-292-1200.
Jewish Book Group
We meet once a month on Tuesday evenings at 7:30 for an exciting and stimulating hour of good conversation and fellowship. Everyone is welcome -- come to one session, two, or as many as you like. There are no sign-ups or memberships – just join us! Some TBJ members come even if they haven’t read the book.
Next up People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks. From Viking Books: In 1996, Hanna Heath, an Australian rare-book expert, is offered the job of a lifetime: analysis and conservation of the famed Sarajevo Haggadah, which has been rescued from Serb shelling during the Bosnian war. Priceless and beautiful, the book is one of the earliest Jewish volumes ever to be illuminated with images. The reader is ushered into an exquisitely detailed and atmospheric past, tracing the book's journey from its salvation back to its creation.
Date: Dec. 9
For time, location and other questions please call or email Jerry Brodkey at 650-917-8213 jbrodpmiler@yahoo.com.
Sponsored by Congregation Beth Jacob, 1550 Alameda de las Pulgas, Redwood City
Singing to God: Shabbat Music
In response to the question, "When do you most often feel a spiritual connection?" the most common response is, "when the cantor sings!" For many people it is the music that makes a spiritual – almost physical contact – with God.
So what if you don't know the words, don't know the tune? And what about chanting prayers? Can a Reform Jew relate to, much less experience, the meditative mantra-like chanting of davening? What is the relationship between singing and chanting?
Join Cantor Ilene Keys in a discussion of the human voice praising God. We will start with the broad concepts – prayer, praise, davening –and continue with the specifics – learning common tunes and songs of the Shabbat service.
Time: 12noon
Date: Sunday, December 14
Place: Temple Sinai Merritt Village, Merritt College, 12500 Campus Drive, off Redwood Road in Oakland (meet at the entrance of Temple Sinai's Merritt Village)
FREE
Chopshticks
Don't miss Gary Gulman of Last Comic Standing fame, performing live....at a Chinese restaurant! Help yourself to gourmet Chinese food and gut-busting comedy instead of spending the holidays alone. Chopshticks is an annual local tradition that sells out, so be sure to buy your tickets in advance.
December 24 or 25
Time: 7pm
Place: Ming’s Restaurant, 1700 Embarcadero Road, Palo Alto
Cost: $70
Contact: Boris Vladimirsky, Performing Arts and Émigré Director. Phone: 650-852-3509
e-mail: bvladimirsky@paloaltojcc.org
The Jewish partner may try to explain Jewish culture. If it’s a meeting between me and the couple this is often when the Jewish partner turns to me and says, “You know, Jewish culture.”
So what the devil is “Jewish culture?” First the bad news, it comes from Jewish religion. There is no food, music, art, dance or even language that is universal to all Jews everywhere. What is universal is the religion of Judaism. BUT! Now the good news, where ever Jews went on the planet they took their religion and adapted it to the host country, creating a Jewish version of that place - i.e. Jewish culture. So you have the Jewish culture of Mexico and the Jewish culture of Morocco and so on – each with their own food, music, language, etc.
So when the Jewish partner says, “I’m culturally Jewish” there’s a lot to explore.
What country or countries does the Jew in question come from? I met a man a couple weeks ago who was born in Iran, his family moved to Israel when he was a little boy and then to the US when he was a teen. So he has multiple languages, foods, music, etc. to share with his soon to be spouse.
My sister-in-law’s family came from Tunisia. The family was expelled when her parents were young adults and fled to France. Her wedding to my Ashkenazi brother-in-law included Arab, French and American elements. The food, all kosher, was Middle Eastern at one of the banquets and French at another. Her parents speak three languages - Arabic, Hebrew, and French plus few words of English. The bridal parties included belly dancing and henna. My sister-in-law thinks American Jews eat too much “white food!” Bagels, challah and gefilte fish all horrify her. And why have a fiddle when you can use a drum?
What is YOUR Jewish culture?
Begin by exploring your roots. Most American Jews are Ashkenazi - that is, originating from Eastern Europe and from a community that spoke Yiddish. Go to the Jewish museums, music festivals, art & food fairs and find the elements that represent “Jewish” to you. That’s your Jewish culture. It will probably include Klezmer music, bagels, Yiddishisms, and images of bearded men dressed in long black coats. None of this would be culturally appropriate for my sister-in-law but it will be for the majority of American Jews.
Buy recordings of old Jewish comedians - and new/young ones. Talk about why the jokes are funny. Don’t assume that everyone gets the jokes you get. (I was at a Jewish conference a few years back and there was a Jewish comedian entertaining us. We were roaring. The young Hispanic facilities man sat by handling the sound with a placid expression. Finally the comedian turned to him after a wonderful bris joke and said, “So, you getting any of this?” “No,” smiled the man.)
Catch Jewish art exhibits when they are in town. A Chagall exhibit was in San Francisco about a year ago. Watch the paper.
There is an annual Jewish Music Festival that is managed out of the Berkeley JCC but has performances all around the bay. Check them out online at:
http://www.jcceastbay.org/jcc/jewish_music_festival.htm
The Judah L. Magnes Museum in Berkeley has rotating exhibits. Go for a visit. Get info online at: http://www.magnes.org/
Check out the new Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco: www.thecjm.org
One of the easiest ways to learn is by watching a film. The fantastic San Francisco Jewish Film Festival comes every year, get a brochure or look online at: www.sfjff.org
San Jose and Contra Costa also have film festivals so you don’t have to go far from home to see a film.
Contra Costa: www.eastbayjewishfilm.org/
Silicon Valley: www.sjjff.org
Or just go rent an old film and watch it with an interpretive eye. Explain the details.
Try any Mel Brooks film -
The Producers
The Frisco Kid
The History of the World: Part one
Exodus
Fiddler on the Roof
Old black and white Yiddish films like The Dybbuk or Yidl Mitn Fidl.
Modern films from around the world.
Being Jewish in France
The Year My Parents Went on Vacation
All of these can start conversations about what it means to be Jewish, for the most part, without a religious component. Religion exists on the sides of some of these films, just the way it hovers on the side of the lives of cultural Jews.
There are some good cultural things going on right now – take a look.
EVENTS
Exhibition of Italian Ritual Objects and Manuscripts (San Francisco)
Young Family Shabbat (Redwood City)
Miriam’s Well (Berkeley)
Redwood Symphony (Los Altos)
Jewish PJ Party For Very Young Children (El Cerrito)
Interfaith Thanksgiving Eve Celebration and Pie Social (Lafayette)
Abracadabra: Jews & Magic (San Francisco)
Jewish Book Group (Redwood City)
Singing to God: Shabbat Music (Oakland)
Chopshticks (Palo Alto)
Exhibition of Italian Ritual Objects and Manuscripts
From November 3 to January 29 the Jewish Community Library will exhibit silver and brass ritual objects, facsimiles of illuminated manuscripts, ketubbot (marriage contracts), letters, and other historical documents from the Italian holdings of the Judah L. Magnes Museum.
Place: BJE Jewish Community Library, 1835 Ellis Street, San Francisco
www.bjesf.org
Call for hours and details Ph: 415.567.3327 x706
Young Family Shabbat
A Shabbat dinner for families with children. Following a brief service.
Date: Friday, November 21
Time: 6:15pm Services in the Chapel
7:00pm Dinner in the Social Hall
Place: Congregation Beth Jacob, 1550 Alameda de las Pulgas, Redwood City
Cost: Adults $14.00 each
Kids (ages 4 – 12) $9.00 each
Little kids (ages 2 – 3) $3.00 each
Please make your dinner reservation with payment to Congregation Beth Jacob office by 5:00pm on Wednesday, November 19.
www.bethjacobrwc.org
Miriam’s Well
Interweaving dance, live music, poetry and sacred text; the stories of three visionary women gather communal waters from the universal well. These stories of Mary, Maryam, and Miriam from the Christian, Muslim, and Jewish traditions illumine the commonality and interconnectedness of these three traditions through a shared story and archetype. Drawing on traditional expressive arts and ritual, as well as contemporary theater and dance technique, Miriam's Well emotionally engages the audience in a rich image of shared heritage.
Date: Saturday, November 22
Time: 8:30 pm
Place: Julia Morgan Theater, 2640 College Ave, Berkeley
Tickets: $24 in advance, $28 at the door
Advance sales tickets available through Brown Paper Tickets' 24/7 ticket hotline: 800-838-3006, or online at www.brownpapertickets.com
Created by Miriam Peretz. In collaboration with Qadim Ensemble, Ya Elah, Salokhiddin Fakhriev, Manar Azriek, Wan-Chao Chang and Hannah Romanowsky
Redwood Symphony
Come hear a rich sampling of works by Jewish composers. Osvaldo Golijov channels Klezmer to create a new musical form; Lukas Foss pays tribute to the first-known Jewish composer, Salamone Rossi; Philip Glass's Suite from The Hours; Steve Reich's Tehillim, sung in Hebrew. Pre-concert lecture at 2 p.m.
Date: Sunday, Nov. 23
Time: 2pm lecture, 3pm concert
Place: Beth Am sanctuary, 26790 Arastradero Road, Los Altos Hills
Tickets: Adult $25 ($20 in advance); Children under 16 and students with ID $10; Children 12 and under Free with adult. Advance tickets: by credit card, online only, at http://www.redwoodsymphony.org. Tickets ordered online will be held at the door. By mail, send check to Redwood Symphony, 1031 16th Ave., Redwood City, 94063 with a self addressed, stamped envelope, or ask that the paid tickets be held at the door.
Jewish PJ Party For Very Young Children
Bubbles, songs, stories, snacks. Learn about the Jewish way of welcoming the new week, Havdalah. Wear your pj's and bring a blankie or stuffed animal. FREE. For children 0-5 and their families.
Date: Nov 23
Time: 10:30am-noon
Place: Jewish Gateways, El Cerrito
For more info or to rsvp contact Rabbi Bridget Wynne at 510-559-8140 or rabbibridget@jewishgateways.org.
Interfaith Thanksgiving Eve Celebration and Pie Social
Lamorinda congregations come together to give thanks in this interfaith service reflecting the many traditions represented: United Methodist, Episcopal, Lutheran, Catholic, United Church of Christ, Jewish, Baha'i, and Christian Science. A stunning procession of singers, banners and dancers will open this unique service, as Temple Isaiah calls us together with the blowing of the shofar and the Baha'i community sings a blessing over our shared space. A choir of singers from several faiths will provide special music, and liturgical dancers will embrace the community in movement. The sermon will be delivered by The Rev. Stephen McHale, Faith Formation Minister of the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection.
All are encouraged to bring a pie or dessert to share. The offering that night will benefit the Winter Nights Shelter.
Date: Wednesday, November 26
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Place: Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette
Sponsored by Lamorinda Interfaith Ministerial Association
(925) 283-3722 www.oslc.net
If you want to go with Temple Isaiah members you can call Michael at the synagogue office and ask to be included with them. You can reach Michael at 925-283-8575.
Abracadabra: Jews & Magic
Both powerful and fun, the art of magic challenges the mind, stimulates the imagination and creates a bridge between illusion and reality. Join cantor, magician and historian Manny Sperling for a spellbinding afternoon of entertainment as he hosts a multimedia homage to legendary Jewish magicians from Houdini and Ballantine to Copperfield and Blaine.
Not recommended for young children.
Date: Sun, Dec 7
Time: 2:00pm
Place: JCC of San Francisco, 3200 California St., San Francisco
Cost: $20/JCC members, $25/non-members
Call for tickets 415-292-1200.
Jewish Book Group
We meet once a month on Tuesday evenings at 7:30 for an exciting and stimulating hour of good conversation and fellowship. Everyone is welcome -- come to one session, two, or as many as you like. There are no sign-ups or memberships – just join us! Some TBJ members come even if they haven’t read the book.
Next up People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks. From Viking Books: In 1996, Hanna Heath, an Australian rare-book expert, is offered the job of a lifetime: analysis and conservation of the famed Sarajevo Haggadah, which has been rescued from Serb shelling during the Bosnian war. Priceless and beautiful, the book is one of the earliest Jewish volumes ever to be illuminated with images. The reader is ushered into an exquisitely detailed and atmospheric past, tracing the book's journey from its salvation back to its creation.
Date: Dec. 9
For time, location and other questions please call or email Jerry Brodkey at 650-917-8213 jbrodpmiler@yahoo.com.
Sponsored by Congregation Beth Jacob, 1550 Alameda de las Pulgas, Redwood City
Singing to God: Shabbat Music
In response to the question, "When do you most often feel a spiritual connection?" the most common response is, "when the cantor sings!" For many people it is the music that makes a spiritual – almost physical contact – with God.
So what if you don't know the words, don't know the tune? And what about chanting prayers? Can a Reform Jew relate to, much less experience, the meditative mantra-like chanting of davening? What is the relationship between singing and chanting?
Join Cantor Ilene Keys in a discussion of the human voice praising God. We will start with the broad concepts – prayer, praise, davening –and continue with the specifics – learning common tunes and songs of the Shabbat service.
Time: 12noon
Date: Sunday, December 14
Place: Temple Sinai Merritt Village, Merritt College, 12500 Campus Drive, off Redwood Road in Oakland (meet at the entrance of Temple Sinai's Merritt Village)
FREE
Chopshticks
Don't miss Gary Gulman of Last Comic Standing fame, performing live....at a Chinese restaurant! Help yourself to gourmet Chinese food and gut-busting comedy instead of spending the holidays alone. Chopshticks is an annual local tradition that sells out, so be sure to buy your tickets in advance.
December 24 or 25
Time: 7pm
Place: Ming’s Restaurant, 1700 Embarcadero Road, Palo Alto
Cost: $70
Contact: Boris Vladimirsky, Performing Arts and Émigré Director. Phone: 650-852-3509
e-mail: bvladimirsky@paloaltojcc.org
Monday, October 13, 2008
Sukkot: Jewish Harvest Festival
Sukkot is an ancient festival originating in the Torah. Elements of it have a mysterious quality. Why is the lulav made of a palm frond, a branch of mrytle and a branch of willow? The Torah doesn't say. The Rabbis have beautiful explanations yet there remains a sense of something more, something ancient and primal.
Go to www.jholidays.org to read about the practice and meaning of Sukkot.
Want a sukkah? You can order a kit that will go up easily in your back yard. For years we had a wooden one but it got pretty weathered and beaten and we opted for a kit. This year I've enjoyed decorating it.
Saturday, October 04, 2008
To Life! Jewish Street Festival
The To Life Festival was held along California Ave in Palo Alto. I shared a booth with Jewish Gateways. Rabbi Bridget's able assistant, also named Dawn, took over when the rabbi left to perform a wedding. That's me on the left and Dawn Marlette on the right.
There was art work -
And food - here's the kosher honey stand -
Synagogues. I saw Beth Am of Los Altos -
Kol Emeth of Palo Alto -
And there were friends -
Welsh Warren at the booth for Volunteers for Israel. Welsh retired, gosh, quite awhile ago. He took a part-time job in a coffee shop in Oakland where for years, he served my son a hot chocolate every morning. Welsh's congregation is Beth Abraham in Oakland.
Wendy Lash was there for Coastside Jewish Community, the Renewal synagogue in Half Moon Bay. Wendy leads Spirituality workshops and performs weddings. I've included a photo of her with a couple at their wedding.
Ellen Bob of bob and bob bookstore. Long live independent bookstores! Go shop there in Los Altos. You can get a lulav and etrog there right now.
www.bobandbobjudaica.com
1
Dave and Liz Bauer came by to say hello. They are on this list, members of Peninsula Temple Beth El. If you go, just sit with either of them; they are just as friendly as they look!
That's Sarah Bolder of the Progressive Jewish Alliance waving at the camera!
The Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival
My brother and sister-in-law did bike over from their house to meet me for lunch. We were eating shwarma when my brother saw an old family friend. Judy is a dear friend of my mother's. From there we wandered on up the block. I found a drape for my sukkah! It will be a big improvement over last year's stark new, white sukkah. My sister-in-law found ice cream.
I'll show you pictures of my sukkah when I get it up.
There was art work -
And food - here's the kosher honey stand -
Synagogues. I saw Beth Am of Los Altos -
Kol Emeth of Palo Alto -
And there were friends -
Welsh Warren at the booth for Volunteers for Israel. Welsh retired, gosh, quite awhile ago. He took a part-time job in a coffee shop in Oakland where for years, he served my son a hot chocolate every morning. Welsh's congregation is Beth Abraham in Oakland.
Wendy Lash was there for Coastside Jewish Community, the Renewal synagogue in Half Moon Bay. Wendy leads Spirituality workshops and performs weddings. I've included a photo of her with a couple at their wedding.
Ellen Bob of bob and bob bookstore. Long live independent bookstores! Go shop there in Los Altos. You can get a lulav and etrog there right now.
www.bobandbobjudaica.com
1Dave and Liz Bauer came by to say hello. They are on this list, members of Peninsula Temple Beth El. If you go, just sit with either of them; they are just as friendly as they look!
That's Sarah Bolder of the Progressive Jewish Alliance waving at the camera!
The Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival
My brother and sister-in-law did bike over from their house to meet me for lunch. We were eating shwarma when my brother saw an old family friend. Judy is a dear friend of my mother's. From there we wandered on up the block. I found a drape for my sukkah! It will be a big improvement over last year's stark new, white sukkah. My sister-in-law found ice cream.
I'll show you pictures of my sukkah when I get it up.
Solano Stroll Pictures
Perhaps you were in the crowd...
There was a lot to see.
The synagogue booths I got pictures of were -
Temple Beth Hillel, Richmond
www.templebethhillelrichmond.org
Kol Hadash, Berkeley
www.kolhadash.org
Beth El, Berkeley - That's their membership chair, Romy standing in front. I have put some of you in touch with her.
www.bethelberkeley.org
Aquarian Minyan, Berkeley
www.aquarianminyan.org
The JCC of the East Bay was there. That's Jennifer sitting at the booth. They have an office in Berkeley and one in Oakland.
www.jcceastbay.org
Here's the Jewish Family & Children's Services Booth. Avi Rose, their director, is an amazing guy, very thoughtful and supportive of Building Jewish Bridges. They also have an office in Berkeley and one in Walnut Creek.
Rabbi Bridget Wynne of Jewish Gateways shared a booth with her colleagues, Progressive Jewish Alliance.
If you want to experience a Shabbat dinner in a relaxed atmosphere with a group of other friendly curious people, go to one of Rabbi Bridget's dinners. You can find her programs at www.jewishgateways.org.
There was a lot to see.
The synagogue booths I got pictures of were -
Temple Beth Hillel, Richmond
www.templebethhillelrichmond.org
Kol Hadash, Berkeley
www.kolhadash.org
Beth El, Berkeley - That's their membership chair, Romy standing in front. I have put some of you in touch with her.
www.bethelberkeley.org
Aquarian Minyan, Berkeley
www.aquarianminyan.org
The JCC of the East Bay was there. That's Jennifer sitting at the booth. They have an office in Berkeley and one in Oakland.
www.jcceastbay.org
Here's the Jewish Family & Children's Services Booth. Avi Rose, their director, is an amazing guy, very thoughtful and supportive of Building Jewish Bridges. They also have an office in Berkeley and one in Walnut Creek.
Rabbi Bridget Wynne of Jewish Gateways shared a booth with her colleagues, Progressive Jewish Alliance.
If you want to experience a Shabbat dinner in a relaxed atmosphere with a group of other friendly curious people, go to one of Rabbi Bridget's dinners. You can find her programs at www.jewishgateways.org.
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Fall Holidays and Fairs
Dear Interfaith Families and Friends,
Wishing the Muslim folks on this list a Happy Ramadan!
Ramadan began on September 1. It is important to remember that our Muslim relatives and friends are celebrating an important holiday at the same time we as a nation will observe 9/11. This will be a difficult day for many who lost loved ones AND for those American citizens who are treated with unkindness and suspicion simply for being of Middle Eastern descent. We as Jews must remember that we have often been the strangers. The most repeated commandment in the Torah is to be kind to “the stranger in your midst for you were strangers.”
Let’s all make a point of seeing the best in others this week. Remember that in every faith there is a belief in love, compassion, and respect. Let’s honor this week by being the best citizens and neighbors we can be. And let’s teach our children to do the same.
Are you a New Mama of a Jewish (or maybe Jewish) Baby?
I will be starting another Welcoming Your Jewish Baby group in October. Email me if you are interested. Look at the description at www.BuildingJewishBridges.org – you’ll also see one sweet mama and her little one.
Solano Stroll - Jewish booths
I’ll be at the Solano Stroll this Sunday. They are grouping the Jewish booths together. Come by and say hello. I’m with the Jewish Coalition for Literacy folks. They offered me a chair at their booth and I accepted – I’m in favor of literacy! I tutored for 11 years in the Oakland public schools. Come see if you’d like to tutor. Or come talk to me about your interfaith relationship.
To Life! Street Festival
Then on Sunday, Sept. 21 I’ll be in Palo Alto at L’Chaim, To Life Street Festival with Rabbi Bridget Wynne of Jewish Gateways. We are two peas in a pod! Both of us do outreach, love people and are on a mission from God (just like the Blues Brothers). Our mission is to offer doorways into Jewish life - what ever you want to explore, we want to help you find it.
I’m out of town for four days, back for Shabbat on Friday
I’ll be out of town this week from Tuesday afternoon to Friday. I’ll be thinking of you all everyday as I’ll be at an Outreach to Interfaith conference - what fun! If you call or email, I’ll get back to you on Monday, Sept. 15.
I’ll be talking to you next week about finding High Holiday services if you’re unaffiliated. We’ll talk...
EVENTS
Preparing for the High Holy Days (Lafayette)
Family Shabbat Morning Service (Pleasanton)
Elul Retreat (San Mateo)
High Holy Days - Family Picnic, Walk & Talk at Baker Beach (San Francisco)
Demystifying the High Holydays (Pleasanton)
Gathering of Blessings (San Francisco)
Port Wine & Chocolate in the Sukkah (Pleasanton)
Sukkot Gatherings (Los Altos)
Demystifying Judaism (Pleasanton)
Caspian Rain: Author Talk (Walnut Creek)
Shabbat in Nature (Sunol)
Preparing for the High Holy Days
Rabbi Graetz will be offering three sessions in the month of Elul to help you prepare for the holidays. The Talmud teaches: "Four things change a person's fate, namely tzedakah, crying out, changing one's name, and changing one's conduct... and some say: changing one's place." Through text, contemplation and conversation, Rabbi Graetz will guide you in exploring how the High Holy Days can become a transformative experience.
Date: Thursdays, September 11, 18 and 25
Time: 7:15pm
Place: Temple Isaiah, 3800 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette
Questions: Call Michael at 925-
FREE
Family Shabbat Morning Service
Family services provide an opportunity for young children to actively participate in the warmth and joy of Shabbat with their families. The service has been specially prepared by Cheryl Cohen for families with young children and children in our Religious School. The music, however, is for people of all ages and is led with great ruach and style by Josh Cohen. We strongly encourage grandparents, siblings and friends to come and pray with us. Snack is provided following the service.
Date: Saturday, September 13
Time: 10:30am – 12pm
Place: Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada Ct., Pleasanton
For more info call Cheryl Cohen at 925.931.1055 x21
Elul Retreat
Join meditation teachers Wendy Lash, Bobbi Bornstein and Laurie Williams for a 1/2 day of reflection and spaciousness to help you tap into this special time. We will begin the journey to "open the books of our lives," releasing and transforming ourselves through meditation, art and ritual.
Date: Saturday September 13
Time: 12:15 - 5 pm
Place: Peninsula Temple Beth El,1700 Alameda de las Pulgas, San Mateo
Cost is $36 for PTBE members and $46 for non-PTBE members. Scholarships are available.
To register contact Lolli Freedman at PTBE at 650.341.7701 or lfreedman@ptbe.org.
This program is generously underwritten by Or HaLev Center for Jewish Spirituality at PTBE.
High Holy Days - Family Picnic, Walk & Talk at Baker Beach
With Helena McMahon, LMFT and Rabbi Eve Ben-Ora
Discuss the meaning of the High Holy Days at beautiful Baker Beach in San Francisco. Bring a blanket and a picnic lunch - there will be activities for children 10 and under. All couples and families are welcome to attend this workshop.
Date: Sunday, September 14
Time: Noon - 2:00 pm
Place: Baker Beach in San Francisco, for more information contact the San Francisco JCC at (415) 292-1200.
Cost: $10/couple
Demystifying the High Holydays
As part of our S’lichot observance, Rabbi Winer will present this preparatory practice leading into the High Holyday season. Everyone is invited to continue with further study and worship throughout the evening. Please join us for this opportunity to explore and better understand the Days of Awe before Rosh Hashanah, which begins on Monday evening, September 29.
Date: Sat., Sept. 20
Time: 7 to 8:15pm
Place: Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada Ct., Pleasanton
Info: 925.931.1055
Gathering of Blessings
Honoring the Jewish Community Relations Council
At its annual Gathering of Blessings interfaith celebration, the Interfaith Center at the Presidio will honor the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Bay Area as a "Bay Area Interfaith Treasure." The celebration will include stories, prayers, blessings, and music honoring partnerships that provide support to build bridges of peace and service among religions, here at home and around the world.
Date: Sunday, October 5
Time: Reception 4:30 pm; ceremony 5:30 pm.
Place: Interfaith Chapel, Presidio of San Francisco, 130 Fisher Loop.
Free event.
Port Wine & Chocolate in the Sukkah
Are you 21 or older? Then you are invited for a sophisticated evening under the stars showcasing Fine Livermore Valley Port and dessert wines poured for your tasting enjoyment. Wines paired with decadent chocolates & cheeses. Hot beverages and other sweet delights.
Date: Sat., Oct. 18
Time: 7:30 to 10pm
Place: Congregation Beth Emek, 2400 Nevada Ct., Pleasanton
Cost: $20 per person ($10 for no-alcohol admission)
RSVP to Sharon Cohen at 925-931-1055 x11
Mail check to Beth Emek.
Sukkot Gatherings
This year's Sukkot Gatherings will bring together Beth Am members and friends toschmooze, eat, relax and meet new friends in sukkot at members’ homes. To attend, please RSVP on the Beth Am website, and we’ll match you up with a Sukkot gathering in your neighborhood.
Date: Sunday, Oct. 19
Time: 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Place: Homes around Los Altos Hills
For information call or e-mail: Lori Shaffer at shaffer.family@comcast.net or 650-494-7008 or Diana Friedman at friedx4@pacbell.net or 650-965-2265
Last year I think it was Lori Shaffer that I called to ask how non-members could participate. She was excited that non-members would be interested and said to have them call her. If you want to go, either call and get a spot or, if you feel shy, call me and I’ll get you a spot. But call me NEXT week as I’m going to be out of town from Tuesday thru Friday this week.
Demystifying Judaism --
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Judaism but Were Afraid to Ask…Beginning in September, Rabbi Richard Winer will present a year-long course on “Demystifying Judaism” – for newly-engaged Jews, lifelong learners and those who haven’t cracked a book since b’nai mitzvah, for Jews-by-choice and Jews-by-birth and everyone in between, for non-Jewish spouses and the Jews who love them, and for anyone who has a question about Jewish ritual, practice, faith or religion.
Rabbi Winer will present this class once a month. Bagels, coffee and orange juice will be provided.
Dates: Sundays beginning Oct. 19
October 19: Demystifying Torah
November 16: Demystifying Worship I
January 11: Demystifying Worship II
February 22: Demystifying the Jewish Holidays -- a Jewish Holiday Primer
March 15: Demystifying Passover
Time: 10:30 – 11:45am
Place: Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada Ct., Pleasanton
FREE
Info: 925.931.1055
You can register for “Demystifying Judaism” on-line at www.bethemek.org or drop in and join us as often as you can during the year. There is no charge for this class.
Caspian Rain: Author Talk
“Chai Tea” is back again, so join us for gourmet teas, great desserts and a lively book discussion with Gina Nahai, author of Caspian Rain. Nahai, who herself left Iran as a teen, offers a rare glimpse into the life of Iranian Jews. This is a compelling novel about class pressures, life under the Shah and what happened to Iranian society after the Khomeini Islamic revolution.
Date: Thursday, October 23
Time: 3:00 pm
Place: Contra Costa JCC, 2071 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek
For more information call Riva Gambert at the East Bay Jewish Federation (510) 839-2900 x253
Co-sponsor: Temple Isaiah Book Group
Shabbat in Nature
Come and Enjoy a Glorious Autumn
Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. -- Rachel Carson
Participate in any or all of the following:
Minyan starting at 10:30 a.m. led by Rabbi Dana Magat and Canter Intern Meeka Simerly
Lots of singing (bring your instrument!)
Potluck lunch and discussion
Walk to (paved road) and around “Little Yosemite” – appropriate for all ages – or any of the wonderful trails
It’s your Shabbat!!
Date: Saturday, Oct. 25
Time: 10am
Place: Sunol Regional Park
No RSVP Necessary
For Info call Ginny at (408) 993-1139; email ginandbrad@gmail.com or
Nancy at (650) 694-4604; email nancyweintraub@sbcglobal.net
Directions: Go south on 280 which becomes 680 north. Continue on 680 and exit at Calaveras Road in Sunol (do not take the Calaveras exit in Milpitas). Turn right on Calaveras and proceed to Geary Road (watch carefully). Turn left on Geary; Geary leads directly into the park. Drive until you get to the toll booth. Bring $5 for entrance fee ($2 extra per dog). Continue through and drive straight until the road forks. Go left towards the picnic area. With the creek running on the left, drive to the last parking area you see before the road empties into a large lot. The cars will be on the right side of the road – look for a car with a sign in the back window – TEE – and park. You will see the picnic tables and the group on the left side of the road. The site is very accessible and is a very short easy stroll from the parking area. See map on back. For more about the park, go to http://www.ebparks.org/parks/sunol.
This event is sponsored by Temple Emanu-El in San Jose.
The was sent to me by Ginny with the message to invite everyone. Looks like a gorgeous day is planned!
Wishing the Muslim folks on this list a Happy Ramadan!
Ramadan began on September 1. It is important to remember that our Muslim relatives and friends are celebrating an important holiday at the same time we as a nation will observe 9/11. This will be a difficult day for many who lost loved ones AND for those American citizens who are treated with unkindness and suspicion simply for being of Middle Eastern descent. We as Jews must remember that we have often been the strangers. The most repeated commandment in the Torah is to be kind to “the stranger in your midst for you were strangers.”
Let’s all make a point of seeing the best in others this week. Remember that in every faith there is a belief in love, compassion, and respect. Let’s honor this week by being the best citizens and neighbors we can be. And let’s teach our children to do the same.
Are you a New Mama of a Jewish (or maybe Jewish) Baby?
I will be starting another Welcoming Your Jewish Baby group in October. Email me if you are interested. Look at the description at www.BuildingJewishBridges.org – you’ll also see one sweet mama and her little one.
Solano Stroll - Jewish booths
I’ll be at the Solano Stroll this Sunday. They are grouping the Jewish booths together. Come by and say hello. I’m with the Jewish Coalition for Literacy folks. They offered me a chair at their booth and I accepted – I’m in favor of literacy! I tutored for 11 years in the Oakland public schools. Come see if you’d like to tutor. Or come talk to me about your interfaith relationship.
To Life! Street Festival
Then on Sunday, Sept. 21 I’ll be in Palo Alto at L’Chaim, To Life Street Festival with Rabbi Bridget Wynne of Jewish Gateways. We are two peas in a pod! Both of us do outreach, love people and are on a mission from God (just like the Blues Brothers). Our mission is to offer doorways into Jewish life - what ever you want to explore, we want to help you find it.
I’m out of town for four days, back for Shabbat on Friday
I’ll be out of town this week from Tuesday afternoon to Friday. I’ll be thinking of you all everyday as I’ll be at an Outreach to Interfaith conference - what fun! If you call or email, I’ll get back to you on Monday, Sept. 15.
I’ll be talking to you next week about finding High Holiday services if you’re unaffiliated. We’ll talk...
EVENTS
Preparing for the High Holy Days (Lafayette)
Family Shabbat Morning Service (Pleasanton)
Elul Retreat (San Mateo)
High Holy Days - Family Picnic, Walk & Talk at Baker Beach (San Francisco)
Demystifying the High Holydays (Pleasanton)
Gathering of Blessings (San Francisco)
Port Wine & Chocolate in the Sukkah (Pleasanton)
Sukkot Gatherings (Los Altos)
Demystifying Judaism (Pleasanton)
Caspian Rain: Author Talk (Walnut Creek)
Shabbat in Nature (Sunol)
Preparing for the High Holy Days
Rabbi Graetz will be offering three sessions in the month of Elul to help you prepare for the holidays. The Talmud teaches: "Four things change a person's fate, namely tzedakah, crying out, changing one's name, and changing one's conduct... and some say: changing one's place." Through text, contemplation and conversation, Rabbi Graetz will guide you in exploring how the High Holy Days can become a transformative experience.
Date: Thursdays, September 11, 18 and 25
Time: 7:15pm
Place: Temple Isaiah, 3800 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette
Questions: Call Michael at 925-
FREE
Family Shabbat Morning Service
Family services provide an opportunity for young children to actively participate in the warmth and joy of Shabbat with their families. The service has been specially prepared by Cheryl Cohen for families with young children and children in our Religious School. The music, however, is for people of all ages and is led with great ruach and style by Josh Cohen. We strongly encourage grandparents, siblings and friends to come and pray with us. Snack is provided following the service.
Date: Saturday, September 13
Time: 10:30am – 12pm
Place: Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada Ct., Pleasanton
For more info call Cheryl Cohen at 925.931.1055 x21
Elul Retreat
Join meditation teachers Wendy Lash, Bobbi Bornstein and Laurie Williams for a 1/2 day of reflection and spaciousness to help you tap into this special time. We will begin the journey to "open the books of our lives," releasing and transforming ourselves through meditation, art and ritual.
Date: Saturday September 13
Time: 12:15 - 5 pm
Place: Peninsula Temple Beth El,1700 Alameda de las Pulgas, San Mateo
Cost is $36 for PTBE members and $46 for non-PTBE members. Scholarships are available.
To register contact Lolli Freedman at PTBE at 650.341.7701 or lfreedman@ptbe.org.
This program is generously underwritten by Or HaLev Center for Jewish Spirituality at PTBE.
High Holy Days - Family Picnic, Walk & Talk at Baker Beach
With Helena McMahon, LMFT and Rabbi Eve Ben-Ora
Discuss the meaning of the High Holy Days at beautiful Baker Beach in San Francisco. Bring a blanket and a picnic lunch - there will be activities for children 10 and under. All couples and families are welcome to attend this workshop.
Date: Sunday, September 14
Time: Noon - 2:00 pm
Place: Baker Beach in San Francisco, for more information contact the San Francisco JCC at (415) 292-1200.
Cost: $10/couple
Demystifying the High Holydays
As part of our S’lichot observance, Rabbi Winer will present this preparatory practice leading into the High Holyday season. Everyone is invited to continue with further study and worship throughout the evening. Please join us for this opportunity to explore and better understand the Days of Awe before Rosh Hashanah, which begins on Monday evening, September 29.
Date: Sat., Sept. 20
Time: 7 to 8:15pm
Place: Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada Ct., Pleasanton
Info: 925.931.1055
Gathering of Blessings
Honoring the Jewish Community Relations Council
At its annual Gathering of Blessings interfaith celebration, the Interfaith Center at the Presidio will honor the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Bay Area as a "Bay Area Interfaith Treasure." The celebration will include stories, prayers, blessings, and music honoring partnerships that provide support to build bridges of peace and service among religions, here at home and around the world.
Date: Sunday, October 5
Time: Reception 4:30 pm; ceremony 5:30 pm.
Place: Interfaith Chapel, Presidio of San Francisco, 130 Fisher Loop.
Free event.
Port Wine & Chocolate in the Sukkah
Are you 21 or older? Then you are invited for a sophisticated evening under the stars showcasing Fine Livermore Valley Port and dessert wines poured for your tasting enjoyment. Wines paired with decadent chocolates & cheeses. Hot beverages and other sweet delights.
Date: Sat., Oct. 18
Time: 7:30 to 10pm
Place: Congregation Beth Emek, 2400 Nevada Ct., Pleasanton
Cost: $20 per person ($10 for no-alcohol admission)
RSVP to Sharon Cohen at 925-931-1055 x11
Mail check to Beth Emek.
Sukkot Gatherings
This year's Sukkot Gatherings will bring together Beth Am members and friends toschmooze, eat, relax and meet new friends in sukkot at members’ homes. To attend, please RSVP on the Beth Am website, and we’ll match you up with a Sukkot gathering in your neighborhood.
Date: Sunday, Oct. 19
Time: 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Place: Homes around Los Altos Hills
For information call or e-mail: Lori Shaffer at shaffer.family@comcast.net or 650-494-7008 or Diana Friedman at friedx4@pacbell.net or 650-965-2265
Last year I think it was Lori Shaffer that I called to ask how non-members could participate. She was excited that non-members would be interested and said to have them call her. If you want to go, either call and get a spot or, if you feel shy, call me and I’ll get you a spot. But call me NEXT week as I’m going to be out of town from Tuesday thru Friday this week.
Demystifying Judaism --
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Judaism but Were Afraid to Ask…Beginning in September, Rabbi Richard Winer will present a year-long course on “Demystifying Judaism” – for newly-engaged Jews, lifelong learners and those who haven’t cracked a book since b’nai mitzvah, for Jews-by-choice and Jews-by-birth and everyone in between, for non-Jewish spouses and the Jews who love them, and for anyone who has a question about Jewish ritual, practice, faith or religion.
Rabbi Winer will present this class once a month. Bagels, coffee and orange juice will be provided.
Dates: Sundays beginning Oct. 19
October 19: Demystifying Torah
November 16: Demystifying Worship I
January 11: Demystifying Worship II
February 22: Demystifying the Jewish Holidays -- a Jewish Holiday Primer
March 15: Demystifying Passover
Time: 10:30 – 11:45am
Place: Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada Ct., Pleasanton
FREE
Info: 925.931.1055
You can register for “Demystifying Judaism” on-line at www.bethemek.org or drop in and join us as often as you can during the year. There is no charge for this class.
Caspian Rain: Author Talk
“Chai Tea” is back again, so join us for gourmet teas, great desserts and a lively book discussion with Gina Nahai, author of Caspian Rain. Nahai, who herself left Iran as a teen, offers a rare glimpse into the life of Iranian Jews. This is a compelling novel about class pressures, life under the Shah and what happened to Iranian society after the Khomeini Islamic revolution.
Date: Thursday, October 23
Time: 3:00 pm
Place: Contra Costa JCC, 2071 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek
For more information call Riva Gambert at the East Bay Jewish Federation (510) 839-2900 x253
Co-sponsor: Temple Isaiah Book Group
Shabbat in Nature
Come and Enjoy a Glorious Autumn
Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. -- Rachel Carson
Participate in any or all of the following:
Minyan starting at 10:30 a.m. led by Rabbi Dana Magat and Canter Intern Meeka Simerly
Lots of singing (bring your instrument!)
Potluck lunch and discussion
Walk to (paved road) and around “Little Yosemite” – appropriate for all ages – or any of the wonderful trails
It’s your Shabbat!!
Date: Saturday, Oct. 25
Time: 10am
Place: Sunol Regional Park
No RSVP Necessary
For Info call Ginny at (408) 993-1139; email ginandbrad@gmail.com or
Nancy at (650) 694-4604; email nancyweintraub@sbcglobal.net
Directions: Go south on 280 which becomes 680 north. Continue on 680 and exit at Calaveras Road in Sunol (do not take the Calaveras exit in Milpitas). Turn right on Calaveras and proceed to Geary Road (watch carefully). Turn left on Geary; Geary leads directly into the park. Drive until you get to the toll booth. Bring $5 for entrance fee ($2 extra per dog). Continue through and drive straight until the road forks. Go left towards the picnic area. With the creek running on the left, drive to the last parking area you see before the road empties into a large lot. The cars will be on the right side of the road – look for a car with a sign in the back window – TEE – and park. You will see the picnic tables and the group on the left side of the road. The site is very accessible and is a very short easy stroll from the parking area. See map on back. For more about the park, go to http://www.ebparks.org/parks/sunol.
This event is sponsored by Temple Emanu-El in San Jose.
The was sent to me by Ginny with the message to invite everyone. Looks like a gorgeous day is planned!
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Getting Connected
Dear Interfaith Families and Friends,
Getting Connected
This last week I made a series of calls to see how folks were doing. One person said, I just use your list of events, Dawn. I go and I participate.
Not everyone can do that. Several others told me different stories.
I don’t really like to go into a crowd where I don’t know anyone.
Our congregation is nice, but we haven’t really made friends yet.
I wish I could talk to someone one-on-one.
I confess, I’m the same way. I’m a people person. I prefer to go places with a friend. I like to have someone I know to sit next to, eat lunch with, go to the museum or park or movie. If you are trying to connect in a congregation, call me. After all these years at this job I know someone just about everywhere. I think it’s easier if you go to services with a potential friend. Maybe go out for lunch or coffee so you can talk about what it is you hope to find at the congregation.
One young woman told me that all she needed was that first family to sit with. They introduced her to a couple people. “The second time I went, I saw someone I already knew!”
You may not feel a connection in just two visits, but that’s OK, maybe you’ll go with a few different potential friends.
Gala Fundraiser for the East Bay JCC
The Jewish Community Center has always been a terrific place to go for interfaith families. The programs are inviting and diverse. I make it a policy NOT to put expensive events on this eletter and I avoid fundraisers unless they are mostly FUN. That said, I’m worried about the East Bay JCC and want it to continue. So if you love having fun, supporting a good cause, consider joining them for their benefit event.
The JCC’s primary programs are for YOUNG CHILDREN and SENIORS. You were once young and God willing, you’ll be old. These are two parts of our population that we are commanded to care for - no matter what your religion. If you have no religion, then I suspect you do it because you are a good person, plain and simple.
The fundraiser will be taking place on Sunday, September 14th at 5:30 at Temple Beth El in North Berkeley (Oxford between Rose and Eunice). To buy tickets ($100 or $75 for younger adults and preschool parents), call the JCC at (510) 848-0237, ext. 118 or visit the link from the JCC website at www.jcceastbay.org. There will be games (casino and non-casino options too), tapas, and libations. It will be lots of fun - they promise!
Is anyone a member of Peninsula Temple Beth El in San Mateo? If you are, please email me at dawn@BuildingJewishBridges.org. I have a very unique issue that I need some help with. If you’re a multi-cultural or multi-racial couple, that would be extra good.
EVENTS
Picnic Fest (Oakland)
Jewish Meditation Sitting Group (San Mateo)
What do non-Jews want to know about Judaism? (San Francisco)
Preparing for the High Holidays (Lafayette)
Can Jews Who Don't Believe in Bible Stories Still Believe in God? (El Cerrito)
Young Family Shabbat Service (Los Altos)
Third Fridays Shabbat (San Rafael)
Picnic Fest
Pack a lunch and settle in for a performance by MOSHAV BAND; grab a glass for tasting some HAGAFEN WINES; and bring the kids for an animal show, face painting and puppetry.
While just about every Jewish organization will have a booth, make sure to stop by the LGBT Alliance booth, eat some wedding cake and learn about what the Jewish community is doing to stop Prop 8!
And it wouldn't be PicnicFest without free ice cream and beer! Please join us and a thousand of your neighbors at the East Bay's liveliest event.
Date: Sunday, September 7
Time: 11am to 4pm
Place: Joaquin Miller Park in Oakland
Jewish Meditation Sitting Group
Join us for the opening evening of the fifth year of Jewish meditation at Peninsula Temple Beth El. We are in the Or HaLev meditation room which is behind the bimah in the sanctuary. The evening will consist of two sits with a short teaching about the month of Elul in between. This meditation sitting group is ongoing and have four teachers who rotate. It periodically does not meet, due to Monday holidays and other scheduling conflicts at the temple, so if you are interested in being on the mailing list to be notified each week of the following week's sit, please email Lolli Freedman at lfreedman@ptbe.org to get on our mailing list. FREE.
Date: Monday September 8
Time: 7 - 8:15 pm
Place: Peninsula Temple Beth El, 1700 Alameda do las Pulgas, San Mateo
Wendy Lash is leading the opening evening. If you go, please tell her hello from me.
What do non-Jews want to know about Judaism?
--good answers to typical questions
Tea and Talk with Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe
Do your non-Jewish friends sometimes ask you questions about the Jewish faith? Jewish holidays? Do you sometimes feel you would like to have more concise answers?
Come to hear Rabbi Jaffe field questions and provide answers. Feel free to bring any questions you have gotten.
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 10
Time: 1:00 pm
Place: Congregation Emanu-el, in the Martin Meyer Reception Room, 2 Lake St., San Francisco
RSVP to Frana at 415-751-2535.
Preparing for the High Holidays
Prepare is in the midst of community! Rabbi Graetz will be offering three sessions in the month of Elul to help you prepare for the holidays. The Talmud teaches: "Four things change a person's fate, namely tzedakah, crying out, changing one's name, and changing one's conduct... and some say: changing one's place." Through text, contemplation and conversation, Rabbi Graetz will guide you in exploring how the High Holy Days can become a transformative experience.
Dates: Thursdays, September 11, 18 and 25
Time: 7:15pm.
Place: Temple Isaiah, Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette
For more information you can call Michael at (925) 283-8575.
Rabbi Graetz is one of those people you can’t help but fall in love with. He is from Argentina, speaks a bunch of languages, is charming and warm, also caring and brilliant. Go & enjoy. (Feel free to give him my love.)
Can Jews Who Don't Believe in Bible Stories Still Believe in God?
Maybe God didn't really part the Red Sea . . . or save Noah and his Ark. . . does that mean there is no God Jews can believe in? Join us to explore these questions, We will share a delicious, no-experience-necessary Shabbat dinner, eat, laugh, and learn. All are welcome.
Date: Friday, September 12.
Time: 6:15pm
Place: Jewish Gateways' cozy home near El Cerrito Plaza and BART station
Childcare: available by reservation
Space is limited, so RSVP is required.
Please contact Rabbi Bridget Wynne at Jewish Gateways,?(510) 559-8140, or email rabbibridget@jewishgateways.org, for more information, and to make a reservation and get directions and your food assignment. If your schedule doesn't allow you to bring a dish to share, we offer you the option of contributing $7 toward the dinner.
Young Family Shabbat Service
This fun and interactive half-hour service is geared toward families with children ages 3 months to 6 years. Snack is provided following the service, as well as a special arts and crafts activity and time on the playground.
Dates: Saturdays, join us on Sept. 13 and 27
Time: 9:30am
Place: The Chapel at Beth Am, 26790 Arastradero Road, Los Altos Hills
For more information call 650-493-4661
Third Fridays Shabbat
Starting in September, we are lifting up the Third Friday, 8 pm Shabbat service, to become a more traditional Rodef Sholom service, moving and inspiring, centered around sophisticated Jewish music and deep Jewish learning. We will be featuring guest speakers and adult-only dinners throughout the year. We are beginning with Dan Nichols, our artist-in-residence, on September 19. The oneg that follows will be sponsored by Women of Rodef Sholom.
Date: Friday, Sept. 19
Time: 8pm
Place: Rodef Sholom, 170 N. San Pedro Road, San Rafael
For more info call (415) 479-3441
www.rodefsholom.org
Getting Connected
This last week I made a series of calls to see how folks were doing. One person said, I just use your list of events, Dawn. I go and I participate.
Not everyone can do that. Several others told me different stories.
I don’t really like to go into a crowd where I don’t know anyone.
Our congregation is nice, but we haven’t really made friends yet.
I wish I could talk to someone one-on-one.
I confess, I’m the same way. I’m a people person. I prefer to go places with a friend. I like to have someone I know to sit next to, eat lunch with, go to the museum or park or movie. If you are trying to connect in a congregation, call me. After all these years at this job I know someone just about everywhere. I think it’s easier if you go to services with a potential friend. Maybe go out for lunch or coffee so you can talk about what it is you hope to find at the congregation.
One young woman told me that all she needed was that first family to sit with. They introduced her to a couple people. “The second time I went, I saw someone I already knew!”
You may not feel a connection in just two visits, but that’s OK, maybe you’ll go with a few different potential friends.
Gala Fundraiser for the East Bay JCC
The Jewish Community Center has always been a terrific place to go for interfaith families. The programs are inviting and diverse. I make it a policy NOT to put expensive events on this eletter and I avoid fundraisers unless they are mostly FUN. That said, I’m worried about the East Bay JCC and want it to continue. So if you love having fun, supporting a good cause, consider joining them for their benefit event.
The JCC’s primary programs are for YOUNG CHILDREN and SENIORS. You were once young and God willing, you’ll be old. These are two parts of our population that we are commanded to care for - no matter what your religion. If you have no religion, then I suspect you do it because you are a good person, plain and simple.
The fundraiser will be taking place on Sunday, September 14th at 5:30 at Temple Beth El in North Berkeley (Oxford between Rose and Eunice). To buy tickets ($100 or $75 for younger adults and preschool parents), call the JCC at (510) 848-0237, ext. 118 or visit the link from the JCC website at www.jcceastbay.org. There will be games (casino and non-casino options too), tapas, and libations. It will be lots of fun - they promise!
Is anyone a member of Peninsula Temple Beth El in San Mateo? If you are, please email me at dawn@BuildingJewishBridges.org. I have a very unique issue that I need some help with. If you’re a multi-cultural or multi-racial couple, that would be extra good.
EVENTS
Picnic Fest (Oakland)
Jewish Meditation Sitting Group (San Mateo)
What do non-Jews want to know about Judaism? (San Francisco)
Preparing for the High Holidays (Lafayette)
Can Jews Who Don't Believe in Bible Stories Still Believe in God? (El Cerrito)
Young Family Shabbat Service (Los Altos)
Third Fridays Shabbat (San Rafael)
Picnic Fest
Pack a lunch and settle in for a performance by MOSHAV BAND; grab a glass for tasting some HAGAFEN WINES; and bring the kids for an animal show, face painting and puppetry.
While just about every Jewish organization will have a booth, make sure to stop by the LGBT Alliance booth, eat some wedding cake and learn about what the Jewish community is doing to stop Prop 8!
And it wouldn't be PicnicFest without free ice cream and beer! Please join us and a thousand of your neighbors at the East Bay's liveliest event.
Date: Sunday, September 7
Time: 11am to 4pm
Place: Joaquin Miller Park in Oakland
Jewish Meditation Sitting Group
Join us for the opening evening of the fifth year of Jewish meditation at Peninsula Temple Beth El. We are in the Or HaLev meditation room which is behind the bimah in the sanctuary. The evening will consist of two sits with a short teaching about the month of Elul in between. This meditation sitting group is ongoing and have four teachers who rotate. It periodically does not meet, due to Monday holidays and other scheduling conflicts at the temple, so if you are interested in being on the mailing list to be notified each week of the following week's sit, please email Lolli Freedman at lfreedman@ptbe.org to get on our mailing list. FREE.
Date: Monday September 8
Time: 7 - 8:15 pm
Place: Peninsula Temple Beth El, 1700 Alameda do las Pulgas, San Mateo
Wendy Lash is leading the opening evening. If you go, please tell her hello from me.
What do non-Jews want to know about Judaism?
--good answers to typical questions
Tea and Talk with Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe
Do your non-Jewish friends sometimes ask you questions about the Jewish faith? Jewish holidays? Do you sometimes feel you would like to have more concise answers?
Come to hear Rabbi Jaffe field questions and provide answers. Feel free to bring any questions you have gotten.
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 10
Time: 1:00 pm
Place: Congregation Emanu-el, in the Martin Meyer Reception Room, 2 Lake St., San Francisco
RSVP to Frana at 415-751-2535.
Preparing for the High Holidays
Prepare is in the midst of community! Rabbi Graetz will be offering three sessions in the month of Elul to help you prepare for the holidays. The Talmud teaches: "Four things change a person's fate, namely tzedakah, crying out, changing one's name, and changing one's conduct... and some say: changing one's place." Through text, contemplation and conversation, Rabbi Graetz will guide you in exploring how the High Holy Days can become a transformative experience.
Dates: Thursdays, September 11, 18 and 25
Time: 7:15pm.
Place: Temple Isaiah, Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette
For more information you can call Michael at (925) 283-8575.
Rabbi Graetz is one of those people you can’t help but fall in love with. He is from Argentina, speaks a bunch of languages, is charming and warm, also caring and brilliant. Go & enjoy. (Feel free to give him my love.)
Can Jews Who Don't Believe in Bible Stories Still Believe in God?
Maybe God didn't really part the Red Sea . . . or save Noah and his Ark. . . does that mean there is no God Jews can believe in? Join us to explore these questions, We will share a delicious, no-experience-necessary Shabbat dinner, eat, laugh, and learn. All are welcome.
Date: Friday, September 12.
Time: 6:15pm
Place: Jewish Gateways' cozy home near El Cerrito Plaza and BART station
Childcare: available by reservation
Space is limited, so RSVP is required.
Please contact Rabbi Bridget Wynne at Jewish Gateways,?(510) 559-8140, or email rabbibridget@jewishgateways.org, for more information, and to make a reservation and get directions and your food assignment. If your schedule doesn't allow you to bring a dish to share, we offer you the option of contributing $7 toward the dinner.
Young Family Shabbat Service
This fun and interactive half-hour service is geared toward families with children ages 3 months to 6 years. Snack is provided following the service, as well as a special arts and crafts activity and time on the playground.
Dates: Saturdays, join us on Sept. 13 and 27
Time: 9:30am
Place: The Chapel at Beth Am, 26790 Arastradero Road, Los Altos Hills
For more information call 650-493-4661
Third Fridays Shabbat
Starting in September, we are lifting up the Third Friday, 8 pm Shabbat service, to become a more traditional Rodef Sholom service, moving and inspiring, centered around sophisticated Jewish music and deep Jewish learning. We will be featuring guest speakers and adult-only dinners throughout the year. We are beginning with Dan Nichols, our artist-in-residence, on September 19. The oneg that follows will be sponsored by Women of Rodef Sholom.
Date: Friday, Sept. 19
Time: 8pm
Place: Rodef Sholom, 170 N. San Pedro Road, San Rafael
For more info call (415) 479-3441
www.rodefsholom.org
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Little Kids, Little Problems - Big Kids, Big Problems
My daughter calls me “Mama” when she’s feeling especially affectionate or especially upset. So when I picked up the phone at 6am Sunday morning and heard, “Mama?” I knew things were not OK. Elly is in Israel on a Taglit - Birthright* trip and her credit card had been frozen. Despite my calls to the US bank they couldn’t do anything that I asked, nor could they take a call from a cell phone - Catch 22. It had been four days of trying and I was finished. Time to call the big guns. Tali Lipschitz runs the Let’s Go Israel trip** for bay area teens; she’s Israeli and knows how to travel with American kids. I called her and explained the situation.
“OK,” she said, “I’ll call you back.” I waited. Fifteen minutes later the phone rang.
“Hi, Dawn,” came her cheery voice, “you just needed a little Israeli chutzpah.” She had contacted the trip organizer and arranged for them to receive money I would wire to Israel. She walked me through my end of it. DONE!
What does this have to do with interfaith?
My daughter is 22 years old. Mothers of 45 year olds have told me, “Your kids grow up but they are still your children. You will always care. You will always worry.”
Mothers and fathers need a network, a community. If you’re in an interfaith relationship you need a unique network, one that addresses the specific issues and events that will occur to you because you are in an interfaith relationship. You need someone who “gets it.” Someone who cuts through the verbiage, who sees the core issue – and “the issue” may have NOTHING to do with religion. You need someone to help you sort that out. Many of you have turned to me or one of my colleagues with your questions. I’m here for you - always - but like Tali, I hope to help you made a connection.
And what about making a connection?
It’s almost September, almost High Holidays, almost time to ask-
Will we go to services?
If we will, then where will we go?
Are we looking for a single event experience or an ongoing relationship?
Are we looking to be part of a community as a couple?
Will we have kids that we want to bring into a community?
Call me if you want to talk about any of this, or anything else that is on your mind.
Dawn
510-663-8350
*Taglit Birthright Israel is a trip for young Jewish adults up to age 26. It is free. Check the website for how to qualify. website at www.birthrightisrael.org
**Let’s Go Israel is a bay area trip for teens. About a hundred kids who are entering high school juniors go each year. Families from the East bay, Sacramento and Silicon Valley should call Tali about next summer’s trip at 510-839-2900 x255. Families from Sonoma, along the coast to Palo Alto should call Gabi at the Bureau of Jewish Education at 415-751-6983 x123. Teens from all over the bay area are accepted into the program. www.letsgoisrael.org
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