proof of heaven?proof of heaven? - shirtikva.org · shabbat morning torah studyshabbat morning...

www.shirtikva.org 141 Boston Post Road, Wayland, MA 01778 508-358-9992

In This Issue… In This Issue… In This Issue… In This Issue…

Shabbat & Holiday Services………….2

Adult Education……………..……...4-5

Education……………………………..6

Youth Community…...……………….7

Chanukah at TST……………………..8

What Is Tu BiShvat?............................9

Tikkun Olam…….…………………..10

In Our Community…………………..11

Gathering……………….………..12-13

Additions to TST Library…………...14

Proof of Heaven?Proof of Heaven?Proof of Heaven?Proof of Heaven?

by Rabbi Neal Goldby Rabbi Neal Goldby Rabbi Neal Goldby Rabbi Neal Gold

“ What happens after I die?” It’s probably the most primal religious question ever asked – the one that every person has asked at some time. Answering that question with

honesty, integrity, and humility is a task of the world’s religious traditions. Judaism is no exception. And it’s a question that a lot of people are asking today, thanks to a neurosurgeon named Eben Alexander and his current best-seller Proof of Heaven. Dr. Alexander’s story is compelling. He’s a nationally re-nowned scholar on human brain function and the list of his pub-lications on the brain goes on for pages and pages. His scholarly credentials as a scientist and an academic are impeccable. He has no illusions about the mind and human consciousness. Several years ago, Dr. Alexander’s brain was attacked by bac-terial meningitis, a devastating disease that patients rarely sur-vive. He was in a coma for seven days. And during those seven days… his soul went on a journey. He saw visions and gained perspectives on life and the universe. He met…well, he met G-d. And then he woke up. And he remembered everything. Proof

of Heaven is his fascinating description of the journey he went

on, and the conclusions that he drew about the reality of G-d and the immortality of the human soul. In the appendix to the book, he lists the neurological explanations that he would have offered to a patient who had gone through such experiences – and then, one by one, he rejects each explanation. Dr. Alexander did not abandon his spirit of scientific inquiry. He simply allowed it to open his mind to certain conclusions that life and the universe are more luminous than he had previously perceived. I was lucky to get a copy of the manuscript of Proof of Heaven this summer, several months before it was published. (Thanks, Jay Gainsboro, for introducing me to Dr. Alexander and his sto-ry.) I had a sense that his story would touch a lot of people deeply. Here’s what I wrote back then, on Dr. Alexander’s web-site:

The 20th century documents a continuing war be-

tween the conflicting worldviews of science and reli-

gious faith. The great task of the 21st century could

be, for the brave, the investigation of where these two

grand human endeavors dovetail, intersect, and nour-

ish one another. One nuance of Dr. Alexander’s mes-

merizing book is an attack against scientism by one of

its formerly great adherents. Rather than allowing

(continued on page 4)

January 2013 | TEVET-SHEVAT 5773

Consecration 5773Consecration 5773Consecration 5773Consecration 5773

Our first grade students received miniature sifre Torah at the Consecration ceremony during Simchat Shabbat on December 7. Photo by Allan Dines/Northstar Photography

Temple Shir Tikva

Hineni January 2013 Tevet-Shevat 5773

From Our Rabbis and CantorFrom Our Rabbis and CantorFrom Our Rabbis and CantorFrom Our Rabbis and Cantor

We are eager to share in your times of joy and support you in times of sadness. Please call us directly or inform an administrative staff member so we may extend timely

friendship and comfort to you and your family.

Rabbi Neal Gold ,

Rabbi Jennifer Gubitz

Cantor Hollis Schachner

Rabbi Herman Blumberg, Emeritus

SSSShabbat and Holiday Services

January 2013

Shabbat Shmot

Friday, January 4 6 p.m. Forshpeis (Nosh)

6:15 p.m. Simchat Shabbat Service

Saturday, January 5 8:30 a.m. Early Shacharit Service followed by Torah Study

9:30 a.m. Shabbat Yeladim

Shabbat Va’era Friday, January 11 6 p.m. Forshpeis (Nosh)

6:15 p.m. Simchat Shabbat Service


8:30 a.m. Bar/Bat Mitzvah Torah Study 10:45 a.m. Late Shacharit Service

Bar Mitzvah

Bar Mitzvah

Shabbat Bo Friday, January 18 6 p.m. Forshpeis (Nosh) 6:15 p.m. Simchat Shabbat and Family Friday Night Service


9 a.m. Shabbat Mishpacha

Shabbat Beshallach Friday, January 25 6 p.m. Forshpeis (Nosh) 6:15 p.m. Simchat Shabbat Service - Shabbat Shira

Saturday, January 26

8:30 a.m. Early Shacharit Service followed by Torah Study

February 2013 Shabbat Yitro Friday, February 1 6:00 pm Forshpeis (Nosh)

6:15 pm Simchat Shabbat Service Saturday, February 2 8:30 am Early Shacharit Service followed by Torah Study

9:30 am Shabbat Yeladim

10:45 am Late Shachrit Service

Bat Mitzvah

Bat Mitzvah

Shabbat Mishpatim Friday, February 8 6:00 pm Forshpeis (Nosh)

6:15 pm Simchat Shabbat Service

Saturday, February 9 8:30 am Early Shacharit Service followed by Torah Study

8:30 am Bar/Bat Mitzvah Torah Study 10:45 am Late Shachrit Service

Bat Mitzvah

Shabbat Terumah Friday, February 15 6:00 pm Forshpeis (Nosh) 6:15 pm Simchat Shabbat and Family Friday Night Service

Saturday, February 16

8:30 am Early Shacharit Service followed by Torah Study

Shabbat Tetzaveh Friday, February 22 6:00 pm Forshpeis (Nosh) 6:15 pm Simchat Shabbat Service

Saturday, February 23

8:30 am Early Shacharit Service followed by Torah Study

Purim 6:30 pm Adult Megillah Reading

Sunday, February 24 Megillah reading for families followed by Purim

Party

Temple Shir Tikva

January 2013 Tevet-Shevat 5773 Hineni

FIRST ADULT SHABBATON RETREAT

The historic WYLIE INN in Beverly, MA

March 1-3, 2013

Join us for a weekend of community, laughter, learning, and fun! Connect with old friends and engage with new ones! Fill your heart and mind!

AAAA ll are invited to join our Rabbis and Cantor as they lead the first Temple Shir Tikva Adult Shab-

baton Retreat at the beautiful waterfront Wylie Inn in Bev-erly (www.wyliecenter.com). There will be creative ser-vices, joyous music, thoughtful interactive study, and time for relaxation and fun. We know of no better way to forge the bonds of sacred community than by joining together on a Shabbat retreat – and this should be one for the ages! The cost for this very special Shabbaton is $660 per cou-ple, $405 for singles and includes lodging, all meals (Friday night Shabbat dinner through Sunday morning breakfast), meeting rooms and continuous refreshments throughout the day and evening.

A non-refundable deposit of $150 per person is required. There are still a few spaces available. Please contact any

of the people below :

Nancy Gossels - [email protected] Michael Mirman - [email protected] Marilyn Newman - [email protected]

KESHER Provides Spiritual, Emotional Support KESHER Provides Spiritual, Emotional Support KESHER Provides Spiritual, Emotional Support KESHER Provides Spiritual, Emotional Support

TST Kesher Program’s mission is to provide both spiritual and emotional support, solace and hope to congregants and their fami-lies during times of illness, suffering, loss and grief, and to recog-nize celebrations of simchas. Each month, a volunteer coordinates community support services. The January coordinator is Linda

Shoolman. Contact her at [email protected] or by phone at 508-358-5567.

If you are aware of a congregant in need of Kesher services, call the Temple office, the Rabbis or Cantor or the coordinator.

Temple Shir Tikva 2012Temple Shir Tikva 2012Temple Shir Tikva 2012Temple Shir Tikva 2012----13 13 13 13

Annual Fund Campaign UpdateAnnual Fund Campaign UpdateAnnual Fund Campaign UpdateAnnual Fund Campaign Update

Thanks to those of you within our community who have con-tributed to Temple Shir Tikva’s Annual Fund. Because of gen-erous contributions from over 135 member families, to date, we have received almost $40,000 towards our goal of $220,000 for this campaign year which ends on June 30.

Our Annual Fund enables us to maintain excellence as we worship, learn and gather together to ensure that membership remains open to everyone in our community. We deeply appre-ciate all gifts to our Annual Fund to help us foster an inclusive and financially secure community.

You can donate to the Annual Fund by sending a check to the Temple office or donating via the Temple website at www.shirtikva.org

The Annual Fund Committee Susan Benjamin Amanda Sonis Glynn Ed Polansky Janet Polansky Michael Schreiber

Participation Goal

Donation Goal

Shabbat Morning Torah StudyShabbat Morning Torah StudyShabbat Morning Torah StudyShabbat Morning Torah Study

Rabbi Neal Gold, Rabbi Jennifer Gubitz

and Cantor Hollis Schachner

Every Saturday, 9:30 a.m.

Every Shabbat morning at, a group of

spirited students gathers to study the weekly

Torah portion. The conversation is insightful

and fun as we explore our ancient texts and

mine them for contemporary meaning. The

group is open and inviting and everyone is welcome to join

us.

Temple Shir Tikva


Rabbi Neal GoldRabbi Neal GoldRabbi Neal GoldRabbi Neal Gold

(continued from page 1)

science to diminish our perspectives to that which is imme-

diately observable or quantifiable, he allows scientific

method to reveal horizons of reality that are ultimately

more luminous and multidimensional than we previously

intuited.

Still, his insights about the nature of consciousness, the

soul, the power of prayer, the immortal nature of the hu-

man spirit, and transcendence from this narrow spectrum

of human sensory experience point to an understanding of

reality that religious mystics everywhere have tried to ar-

ticulate for millennia. From a Jewish perspective, his expe-

riences are ones that the prophet Ezekiel, Shimon bar

Yochai, Abraham Abulafia, Isaac Luria, and the Baal

Shem Tov would have understood with sympathy and ex-

citement.

Apparently, other people were excited by Dr. Alexander’s story as well. His book has been atop national bestseller lists since November. He’s been all over the media, including a recent sit-down with Oprah. And Simon & Schuster described the pre-publication buzz about Proof of Heaven as unprecedented in their entire publishing history. So it’s with great excitement that I invited Dr. Alexander to come to speak at Shir Tikva on Sunday, March 17. He’ll be teaching our Shir Tikva community in the morning and the wider interfaith community in the afternoon; of course, you’re welcome to come to both sessions and to bring your friends and neighbors. But the question is, is Eben Alexander’s story Jewish? Obviously, I think it can be. One of the most wonderful things about Judaism is that we are part of a non-dogmatic faith. You know that Jewish faith can embrace many perspectives on the truth of the universe; we have a tradition of universalism and particularism; rationalists and mystics. Jewish faith compels us to ask questions, especially the most difficult ones. And while it rarely provides easy answers, it does provide an-swers. Indeed it is Jewishly valid to assert that the soul survives this mortal, finite body which houses it. (As a Hasidic tradition teaches: You are not a body that “has” a soul. You are a soul – you “have” a body.) The first postulate of the Torah is that human beings, made in the image of G-d, have an element of G-dliness—that is, eternity—planted within us. There is indeed a rich and provocative literature of life-after-death in Jewish tradition. Some of it was quashed by rationalist Reform fore-bears of a century ago. Some of it is sprouting anew in a 21st century age where cutting-edge religion and cutting-edge science inform, ra-ther than oppose, each other. In the coming weeks, there will be many discussions of Dr. Alexander’s book around Shir Tikva, and I hope you’ll have the opportunity to participate in one of those discussions. I don’t think that everyone who reads his book needs to subscribe to Eben Alexander’s conclusions. But he asks wonderful questions. And exploring together life’s most meaningful and profound questions – like, “What Happens After I Die?” – seems to me to be at the heart of what a Jewish Sacred Community like ours is really all about.

Parenting Your Teen…Parenting Your Teen…Parenting Your Teen…Parenting Your Teen…

Through a Jewish LensThrough a Jewish LensThrough a Jewish LensThrough a Jewish Lens

Learn to parent with intention (Kavannah) and distill practical wisdom from ancient and contemporary Jewish sources in this eight-session program. Classes begin January 27 at Temple Shir Tikva. The fee is $155 per person or $250 per couple. Register before De-cember 23 for discounted tuition of $125 per person or $200 per couple.

Scholarships are available. For more information or to register, email Raylea

Pemstein at rpemstein@ hebrewcollege.edu, call 617-559-8708 or visit www.hebrewcollege.edu/parenting-

your-teen. Participants are from all backgrounds and include interfaith couples and single parents.

Parenting Your Teen is an adult learning program of Hebrew College, CJP and Temple Shir Tikva.

Adult Education

Need a Ride to Services?Need a Ride to Services?Need a Ride to Services?Need a Ride to Services?

Is poor night vision keeping you from attending Shabbat services or other temple activities during the month of January? Our volunteer drivers are ready to help. Call our January Kesher Coordinator, Linda Shoolman, at 508-358-5567 and she will match you up with a volunteer driver.

Changing Identity of Israel and Changing Identity of Israel and Changing Identity of Israel and Changing Identity of Israel and

Israelis Over 60 Years Israelis Over 60 Years Israelis Over 60 Years Israelis Over 60 Years

Sunday, March 10, 2 p.m.

The Israel Connections Committee will pre-

sent Professor David Jacobson, professor of

Judaic Studies at Brown University, who will

describe his view of Israel's changing identity.

Jacobson is the author of four books and teach-

es Israeli Literature, Modern Jewish Literature,

Holocaust Literature, The Bible as Literature,

Religion in Literature and The Hasidic Tale.

For more information, contact Judith N. Huizenga, M.D.

at huizngaj@ comcast.net or call her at 781-237-1353.

Temple Shir Tikva


Adult Education

Wednesday Morning Torah StudyWednesday Morning Torah StudyWednesday Morning Torah StudyWednesday Morning Torah Study

Rabbi Neal Gold

Each Wednesday, 10-11:30 a.m.

An inspired group gathers on Wednesday morn-

ings for friendship, community, and the study of

the great books of the Jewish people (both ancient

and contemporary).

Newcomers are always invited to join this very

warm and special community within the Temple

for mid-week spiritual insights from our tradition.

Crossing the Street 2: Crossing the Street 2: Crossing the Street 2: Crossing the Street 2:

Jews & Muslims in ConversationJews & Muslims in ConversationJews & Muslims in ConversationJews & Muslims in Conversation

Dr. Mohamed Lazzouni and Rabbi Neal Gold

Wednesdays, January 9, 16, 23 & 30, 6:30 p.m.

B ack by popular demand – this is a sequel to the joint pro-gram that was so warmly received in 2011. Dr. Lazzouni,

of the Islamic Center of Boston, and Rabbi Gold lead a four-week series of conversations on the most important things that Jews and Muslims need to know about one another. Our entire community is invited to join us with open minds and hearts – and in an envi-ronment that welcomes straight questions – as we challenge one another to become better neighbors.

Dr. Mohamed Lazzouni holds a PhD in Physics from Oxford University (England), a Master in Physics from London Universi-ty (England) and a BSc. in Material Science. His academic career led him to teach at different universities and colleges in Europe and the United States. He held appointments as an Assistant Pro-fessor of EE at Oxford University and an Assistant Professor of Physics at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. He was trained in Classical Islam in Traditional Schools in North Africa and was active at the Oxford Center of Islamic Studies. The focus of his training was on Islamic Jurisprudence, Islamic Philosophy and the History of Spiritual Islam. He was also trained in Philosophy of

Science at Oxford University.

Rabbi Neal Gold is the Senior Rabbi of Temple Shir Tikva.

LOCATION: The sessions on January 9 and 23 will be held at the Islamic Center (126 Boston Post Road, Wayland) and the session on January 16 and 30 will be held at Temple Shir Tikva

Book Group Discussion Book Group Discussion Book Group Discussion Book Group Discussion

On On On On Proof of Heaven Proof of Heaven Proof of Heaven Proof of Heaven

Led by Rabbi Neal Gold

Monday, February 4, 7:30 p.m.

Our 90 minute discussion of Eben Alexander, MD's best selling book, Proof of Heaven, A Neurosurgeon’s Journey

into the Afterlife is the perfect preparation to Dr. Alexander's talk at TST on Sunday, March 17. Proof of Heaven was re-cently highlighted in Newsweek magazine.

An Amazon reviewer says it all: “Eben Alexander brings a unique perspective to the sacred world combining a glori-ous, personal vision of spiritual consciousness with patient, insightful scientific inquiry. Proof of Heaven is a compelling story of what may lie ahead for all of us in the life beyond this one. We have nothing to fear.”

The book group will continue in March with a humorous book, The Rabbi’s Cat, by Joann Sfar.

For more information, contact Charles Huizenga at [email protected] or phone him at 781-266-7658.

Film Viewing:

Traces of the Trade

Sunday, January 27, 2:30 p.m.

The Weston/Wayland Interfaith Action Group is sponsoring a viewing of the film Traces of

the Trade on Sunday, January 27, at 2:30 p.m. The film will be followed by discussion and a potluck meal.

This film tells the story of producer/director Katrina Browne’s ancestors, the DeWolf family, the largest slave-trading family in U. S. history. From 1769 to 1820 the De-Wolfs engaged in human trafficking from their base in Bristol, R.I. as part of the Triangle Trade. Their ships carried rum from their distilleries in Bristol to West Africa, to trade for African men, women and children and transported them to ports in-cluding Havana and Charleston, where they were sold at auc-tion.

The ships then carried sugar and molasses from Cuba to the family-owned distilleries in Rhode Island. The network of com-mercial activities tied to this trade fueled a large portion of the Northern economy.

The documentary follows the experiences of 10 DeWolf descendants as they retrace the paths of the Triangle Trade in Rhode Island, Ghana and Cuba and face enduring questions of complicity and responsibility.

Contact Holly Zaitchik at [email protected] or call 508-653-0377 for more information.

Temple Shir Tikva


jepig � Education

January Religious School and Youth Community CalendarJanuary Religious School and Youth Community CalendarJanuary Religious School and Youth Community CalendarJanuary Religious School and Youth Community Calendar

Grades 2 & 3 PJ PartyGrades 2 & 3 PJ PartyGrades 2 & 3 PJ PartyGrades 2 & 3 PJ Party

Saturday, March 2

Look for registration opening

soon on FamilyID.com.

If you have questions, contact:

Devora Rohr at

[email protected]

or call 508-358-9992.

Sunday 1/6 Religious School

Grade 1 Family Education

Faculty Professional Development – CEI Session #5

9 – 11 a.m.

9 – 11 a.m.

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Wednesday 1/9 Religious School & Youth Community

Grade 5 Art Project

3:45 – 5:45 & 6 - 8 p.m.

4:15 – 5:45 p.m.


Grade 2 Family Education Program

Madrichim Training Session

Rosh Hodesh Groups Meet

9 – 11 a.m.

9 – 11 a.m.

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

4 – 6 p.m.

Wednesday 1/16 Religious School & Youth Community

Grade 5 Art Project – Making Mezuzot

3:45 – 5:45 & 6 – 8 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

Sunday 1/20 No Religious School, Martin Luther King Weekend

Wednesday 1/23 Religious School & Youth Community 3:45 – 5:45 & 6 – 8 p.m.

Friday - Sunday 1/25-27 Grade 6 Shabbaton – Eisner Camp


Grade 2 Family Education Program

9 – 11 a.m.

9 – 11 a.m.

Wednesday 1/30 Religious School & Youth Community 3:45 – 5:45 & 6 – 8 p.m.




Mitzvah Awareness Workshop #3

9 – 11 a.m.

9 – 11a.m.

9 – 11 a.m.

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

4444thththth & 5& 5& 5& 5thththth Grade SleepGrade SleepGrade SleepGrade Sleep----UnderUnderUnderUnder

Saturday, January 12, 6:30-10 p.m.

Join friends for Havdalah, improv, a scavenger

hunt, an art project, and more!

All who attend are invited to participate

in Pajama Day on Sunday, January 13.

Register on FamilyID.com

Questions?

Contact Devora Rohr at [email protected] or call 508-358-9992

Temple Shir Tikva


Looking for a Meaningful Looking for a Meaningful Looking for a Meaningful Looking for a Meaningful

Volunteer Experience?Volunteer Experience?Volunteer Experience?Volunteer Experience? Jeff’s Place, a community-based, family-focused program, provides FREE volun-teer facilitated support groups and ser-vices to children and teens, ages pre-school through high school, and their caregivers who are coping with a mean-ingful death loss. Jeff’s Place welcomes families in all their diverse forms, and of all races, ethnicities and socioeconomic strata. Our support groups are 100% free, though all donations are gratefully accept-ed. We are proud and truly appreciative of our partnership with Temple Shir Tik-va in Wayland, who generously provides us with a much needed home for our sup-port groups. Jeff’s Place is a nonprofit 501(c)3.

If you are interested, contact

[email protected] or call 508-879-2800 to discuss

upcoming training.

Temple Shir Tikva is building its Linked in Group with a goal of 200 mem-bers. Linked in is a professional business network designed to connect professionals, recruit top talent and spread resumes. It is the world’s largest professional network on the Internet.

Have a specific skill that is needed at your business? Ask the Shir Tikva group for contacts. Looking for a job? Where better to search for leads than within your Shir Tikva community.

If you are already a Linked in member, use the drop-down at the top of each page to search Groups, search for TST or re-quest Join. Our site administrator, Scott Lubell, will approve your request. Or, you can sign up for Linked in at www.linkedin.

com.

Family Connections MeetingFamily Connections MeetingFamily Connections MeetingFamily Connections Meeting

Thursday, January 24, 7:30 p.m.

A Family Connections meeting will be held on January 24, 7:30 p.m. to dis-

cuss and plan future events for the year. It is a great way to get involved if you

have young children.

The meeting will be held at the home of Amy Freshman, 39 Fox Hill Drive,

Natick. Contact Ronnie Kessler at ronniekessler@ gmail.com or call 508-877-

1143.

jepig � Youth Community

NFTY Convention in Los Angeles NFTY Convention in Los Angeles NFTY Convention in Los Angeles NFTY Convention in Los Angeles

February 15February 15February 15February 15----19191919

This President’s Day, hundreds of Reform Jewish teens from around North America will spend five days at NFTY (North American Federation of Temple Youth) convention in Los Angeles learning, singing and connecting with their Judaism. Help these future leaders cement their Jewish identities. After January 3, space available registration will be open until all spots are filled. Contact Rabbi Jen Gubitz at the Temple or go to www.nfty.org/convention.

DO YOU BABYSIT?

Members of our Shir Tikva community are always looking for fun,

responsible, creative babysitters. If you want to add your name to our babysitting list, send your name, age/grade, address, email address, cell phone number, preferred method of communication (email, text or phone), transportation requirements and any additional notes

about you to Ellie Klein Goldman by Facebook message.

Your details and contact information will be made available to the Shir Tikva Family Connections Facebook group,

which can only be viewed by members.

Generic Gift Card Drive for Victims of Generic Gift Card Drive for Victims of Generic Gift Card Drive for Victims of Generic Gift Card Drive for Victims of

Hurricane Sandy during the month of January Hurricane Sandy during the month of January Hurricane Sandy during the month of January Hurricane Sandy during the month of January ————

Watch Watch Watch Watch Vats Nu Vats Nu Vats Nu Vats Nu for more details. for more details. for more details. for more details.

Temple Shir Tikva


Shabbat Chanukah 5773 at Temple Shir TikvaShabbat Chanukah 5773 at Temple Shir TikvaShabbat Chanukah 5773 at Temple Shir TikvaShabbat Chanukah 5773 at Temple Shir Tikva

Temple Shir Tikva


The roots of Tu BiShvat stretch back to the be-ginnings of organized Jewish life. We learn from the Mishnah (Tractate Rosh Hashanah) that “the New Year of the Trees” divided the tithing of one year’s crop from the next—the end and start of the tax year, so to speak. After the expulsion from the Land of Israel, Tu BiShvat went underground, like a seed, unger-minated, lying beneath the soil of Jewish thought and life.

The expulsion from Spain in 1492 scattered Jews in many directions, and some landed in Tzfat. Like a forest fire that cracks open seeds dormant for decades, Tzfat’s kabbalists rediscovered Tu BiShvat and began a period of mystical celebration of the festival. The idea and structure of Tu BiShvat seders traces back to them.

Among early Zionists, Tu BiShvat became the day to celebrate their reconnection to the land...[And] the fourth phase of Tu BiShvat’s flowering was pollinated by the first Earth Day in 1970 and by growing alarm at the degrada-tion of the planet’s resources.

A text for reflection:

It is told of R. Ishmael and R. Akiva that, while they were walking through the streets of Jeru-salem accompanied by a certain man.

A sick person confronted them and said, “Masters, tell me, how shall I be healed?”

They replied, “Take such-and-such, and you will be healed.”

The man accompanying the sages asked them, “Who smote him with sickness?

They replied, “The Holy Blessed One.”

The man: “And you bring yourselves into a matter that does not concern you? G-d smote, and you would heal?”

The sages: “What is your work?”

The man: “I am a tiller of the soil. You see the sickle in my hand.”

The sages: “Who created the ground? Who cre-ated the vineyard?” The man: “The Holy Blessed One.”

The sages: “Then why do you bring yourself into a matter that does not concern you? G-d created it, and you eat the fruit from it!”

The man: “Don’t you see the sickle in my hand? If I did not go out and plow the vineyard, prune it, com-post it, and weed it, it would have yielded nothing.”

The sages: “You are the biggest fool in the world! Have you not heard the verse ‘As for man, his days are grass’ [Psalms103:15]?” A tree, if it is not composted, weeded and [the area around it]

plowed, will not grow; and even if it does grow, if not given water to drink, it will die—will not live.

So, too, the human body is a tree, a healing potion is the compost, and a physician is the tiller of the soil.”

- Midrash Samuel 4, as cited in Sefer Ha-Agadah - The Book of Legends •Why does the man take issue with the sages’ reaction to the sick person, and why do they rebuke him in the way that they do?

•How can we apply the sages’ metaphor to our relationship with the world? What is the tree? Who is the compost? And who is the tiller of the soil? Is one role more important than the other two? How do all of these people work to-gether to create a greater whole?

•What kind of intervention are the sages argu-ing for? Should we take action in the natural world, or should we leave things as they are?

What Is Tu BiShvat? Why Do We Celebrate It? What Is Our Responsibility to the World?What Is Tu BiShvat? Why Do We Celebrate It? What Is Our Responsibility to the World?What Is Tu BiShvat? Why Do We Celebrate It? What Is Our Responsibility to the World?What Is Tu BiShvat? Why Do We Celebrate It? What Is Our Responsibility to the World?

Tu BiShvat:

The People and the Book:

Deeper Roots,

Wider Branches,

The Jerusalem Report

Nigel Savage

Temple Shir Tikva


Tikkun Olam

Next Family Table Distribution on April 21 Next Family Table Distribution on April 21 Next Family Table Distribution on April 21 Next Family Table Distribution on April 21

Temple Shir Tikva’s “Family Table” distribution day for the spring will be

April 21.. We will provide Jewish Family & Children’s Services (JF&CS)

Family Table with seven volunteers to pack and deliver groceries to families in

need.

This is a great family activity! Volunteers arrive at JF&CS (in Waltham) 11:30

a.m. after Hebrew School (you may arrive earlier if necessary). After a brief

orientation, volunteers are provided with food packing instructions (there is an

onsite food pantry) and driving assignments.

Then, volunteers check out and deliver groceries to the assigned recipient fam-

ilies. To volunteer, contact Rich Friedman at rich@friedman partners.com.

Volunteer Matching Volunteer Matching Volunteer Matching Volunteer Matching

forforforfor

55 and Over55 and Over55 and Over55 and Over

This new year share your skills and

experience, connect with others

and make a difference through

SOAR 55.

SOAR 55 offers a professional, personal-ized volunteer matching service that mobi-lizes adults 55 and over to contribute their skills and experience in meaningful service activity that helps strengthen and expand the capacity of local nonprofit and public or-ganizations in Newton and Metrowest. SOAR 55 has over 300 volunteers serving at 80 sites in assignments ranging from tutor-ing children to working alongside nonprofit staff in leadership roles to providing non-profit management consulting assistance.

Service opportunities include but are not limited to the following: assist military ser-vice families and veterans with taxes, or assist with areas of financial planning in-cluding budgeting, investing, improving credit and purchasing homes; help a local high school student stay in school by providing support and encouragement; as-sist 12-14 –year-olds with their homework in one of the following subjects: math, lan-guage arts, science, social studies, Spanish or French; help elementary school children improve reading or math skills; train to provide nonprofit management consulting, (interviewing now for March training); mentor and provide support to a domestic violence survivor, (training begins in Febru-ary); plan and coordinate recruitment events for SOAR 55; work with culturally diverse families in early childhood literacy training; co-lead bereavement support groups for children and teens; coordinate a comprehen-sive employment navigation and support program for adults trying to break through chronic poverty and achieve sustainable career paths; train to develop or expand an organizations volunteer program as a Vol-unteer Coordinator; work one-on-one with pre-release inmates to prepare them for their GED (high school equivalency exam) and much more.

For more information, contact Lois Levick at 508-532-5570, ext. 4353 or email [email protected].

Temple Shir Tikva


OnOnOnOn----Line Donations AvailableLine Donations AvailableLine Donations AvailableLine Donations Available

To make supporting your congregation and performing the mitzvah of tzedakah more con-venient, we have enabled on-line donations. To commemorate or memorialize life-cycle events of congregation members, family, or friends, go

to www.shirtikva.org/donate.

Looking for Looking for Looking for Looking for

Judaica Greeting Judaica Greeting Judaica Greeting Judaica Greeting

Cards or a Cards or a Cards or a Cards or a

KetubahKetubahKetubahKetubah????

• Temple Shir Tikva has greeting cards for sale in the Temple office.

• You can also order a ketubah.

Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday.

Admissions Information Admissions Information Admissions Information Admissions Information

Parents interested in learning more about Rashi, the Boston area’s Reform Jewish independent school for grades K-8, are invited to an Information Session on Wednesday, January 23, 7:30 p.m. at the school located on Route 135, exit 17 off Route 95/128. If using a GPS , enter 45 West Street, Dedham.

Learn about Rashi’s integrated academ-ic program of secular and Jewish studies, with its emphasis on differentiated instruc-tion and commitment to social justice. Come see our campus and hear about ex-tracurricular activities, transportation and financial aid. RSVP at http://rashi.org/

info. For more information, go to www.

rashi.org or call (781) 355-7318.

Curious Minds Program Curious Minds Program Curious Minds Program Curious Minds Program

For Preschoolers For Preschoolers For Preschoolers For Preschoolers

Fun With Science

Wednesday, January 30, 9-11 a.m.

Learn about our environment with Rashi’s Kindergarten teacher, Sharon Mil-ler. Be ready to sing and have fun with Rashi’s music teacher, Elissa Johnson-Green. RSVP at http://rashi.org/cm. For more information, go to www.rashi.org or call (781) 355-7317.

In Our Community

Rabbi Blumberg to be Honored at Rabbi Blumberg to be Honored at Rabbi Blumberg to be Honored at Rabbi Blumberg to be Honored at

JFS of Metrowest JFS of Metrowest JFS of Metrowest JFS of Metrowest Seize the Dream Seize the Dream Seize the Dream Seize the Dream

Jewish Family Service of Metrowest will honor our own Rabbi Herman Blumberg at the Seize the Dream Gala on Sun-day evening, April 28.

A strong partnership exists between Temple Shir Tikva and JFS of Metrowest providing vital social, health and community services alleviating suffering, enhancing lives and supporting people in need in our community.

For information on how to get involved and help honor Rab-bi Blumberg, contact Jayne Lampert at jlampert@ jfsmw.org or call her at 508-875-3100, ext.430.

Global Judaism in Focus: Central Asia’s Bukharan JewsGlobal Judaism in Focus: Central Asia’s Bukharan JewsGlobal Judaism in Focus: Central Asia’s Bukharan JewsGlobal Judaism in Focus: Central Asia’s Bukharan Jews

Join cultural anthropologist Alanna E. Cooper, who will discuss her new book, Bukharan Jews and the Dynamic of Global

Judaism.on January 10, 7:45 p.m. at TST. Cooper, who has been teaching at Shir Tikva this past semester in the Me’ah Adult Educa-tion program, will share stories from her work among this group in Central Asia, Israel and New York. She offers an intimate portrayal of

the Bukharan Jewish experience, alongside a wide-angle lens on the maintenance of Jewish identity across the far reaches of the globe.

Temple Shir Tikva


dlidw � Gathering Sisterhood...

Knitzvah Seed Grows…Row by RowKnitzvah Seed Grows…Row by RowKnitzvah Seed Grows…Row by RowKnitzvah Seed Grows…Row by Row

Sundays, January 6, 13, 9:15 a.m.

Thanks to the creative energy of the women of Shir Tikva, the Women's Kallah has planted seeds that are now growing through-out the year. One example is the fruitful partnership between Sis-terhood and Kesher to replenish our supply of healing shawls. Healing shawls are given to Temple members who are sick at home or in the hospital to provide comfort during difficult times. Over a dozen knitters of all rang-es of experiences have gathered together to create healing shawls whose beauty and meaning will soon be a source of comfort - and

inspiration as we create a rotating display near the Beit Midrash. Our experienced and enthusiastic knitters are ready to help beginners gain the skills to perform a knitzvah.

We will continue to gather, knit, learn, and get to know one another on January 6 and 13 at 9:15 a.m. Watch Vats Nu and the temple website for additional dates. We welcome participation by knitters with all ranges of experience - including beginners! Special thanks to Jayne Lampert for her leader-ship and inspiration.

If you are interested in helping us meet this urgent and meaningful need, contact [email protected].

Mah Jongg NightsMah Jongg NightsMah Jongg NightsMah Jongg Nights

Thursdays, January 17 & February 28, 7:30 p.m.

Seasoned players with years of experience and newcomers who learned to play during last fall’s lessons gather monthly in a spirit of camaraderie to enjoy friendly competition just as generations of Jewish women before us. Refreshments served.

Other dates: March 21, April 18, and May 9 (tournament).

Doris Weinberg

Amy Podolsky and Jae Rosenstein

4th Annual Women’s Kallah

4 Mothers…4 Daughters…4 Mothers…4 Daughters…4 Mothers…4 Daughters…4 Mothers…4 Daughters…

4 Cups…4 Questions...4 Cups…4 Questions...4 Cups…4 Questions...4 Cups…4 Questions...

One Amazing Evening…One Amazing Evening…One Amazing Evening…One Amazing Evening…

For Shir Tikva WomenFor Shir Tikva WomenFor Shir Tikva WomenFor Shir Tikva Women

Sunday, March 31, 4 p.m.

When you record this date on your calen-dar, the first thing that you’ll notice is that this year’s Women’s Kallah takes place during Pesach. The second is that we will gather at 4 p.m. instead of noon.

In response to feedback from previous years, we have changed the format to combine successful elements of the Kallah, planning for Pesach and Sisterhood’s Annual Dinner. What you will discover when you participate in the Women’s Kallah is a unique opportunity to interact with one another and gain insight and inspiration as we explore ways to enrich our traditions and strengthen our roles as modern Jewish women.

Our Women’s Kallah is a luxury of time to contemplate and celebrate as we study and sing, muse and move, learn and laugh, and reveal and revel in new connections within ourselves and with others as we sample a taste of new ideas, activities…and of course food! Ask anyone who has participated in previous Kallot - it is an amazing experience that you won't want to miss!

To help us prepare for a terrific event, secure your spot by registering early…and help us build community by encouraging your friends to attend! Registration is now open at http://www.shirtikva.org/kallah2013.

February February February February Hineni Hineni Hineni Hineni DeadlineDeadlineDeadlineDeadline

Friday, January 4

Articles and photos may be sent by email to [email protected] or

mailed to the Temple Shir Tikva office. Email or call Peggi Cohen, Hineni

editor, at 508-358-6272 with questions or comments.

ippd

Temple Shir Tikva


dlidw � Gathering

Comedy Night at TST

Saturday, January 26, 2013Saturday, January 26, 2013Saturday, January 26, 2013Saturday, January 26, 2013

J oin us for a great night of community and laughs! The night includes great comedi-ans, including the national headliner, Paul

Nardizzi, who has appeared on the Conan O’Brien show and on Comedy Central. In addition, we will have our traditional Chinese food buffet dinner, drinks

(beer and wine) and great homemade desserts. This has always proven to be a great adult night out at the temple. (Must be at least 21 years old.)

Time: Dinner will be served at 7 p.m. (no reserved seating) Dessert starts at approximately 8:15 Comedy starts at approximately 8:30

Prices: Dinner & Comedy: $50 pp ($60 pp at the door) Comedy: $35 pp ($45 pp at the door) Dessert and refreshments included in both options

Please register by January 23 if you plan to attend. (You will get the lower pricing.)

Register Go to the link www.shirtikva.org/comedynight, select the "Register" button and follow the instructions. Be sure to list the names of the people coming with you in the appropriate box.

Payment Payment can be made online when you register with a credit card or PayPal account, or you can pay at the door.

Mark Your Calendar...

What we learn from Biblical archeology in Israel

A Tale of Two Peoples: A Tale of Two Peoples: A Tale of Two Peoples: A Tale of Two Peoples:

Phoenicians and Jews in Ancient Israel Phoenicians and Jews in Ancient Israel Phoenicians and Jews in Ancient Israel Phoenicians and Jews in Ancient Israel

with Andrea M. Berlin,

James R. Wiseman Chair in Classical Archaeology

at Boston University

May 12, 9 a.m.

This illustrated lecture provides a firsthand account of archaeological discoveries that are shedding new light on life in ancient Israel. Andrea Berlin co-directs the excavations at Tel Kedesh in northern Israel, where archaeologists have uncovered a 20,000 square foot commercial and administrative building first con-structed in the era of the return from Babylon (the later sixth century BCE)

and used for the next 350 years. The complex provided a stage for interactions between imperial powers, provincial administrators, and local elites, including well-connected Phoenicians from the coastal city of Tyre. Discoveries include glass and stone signet seals; store rooms with jars containing an experi-mental strain of wheat; reception rooms reflecting cosmo-politan lifestyles; an archive with over 2000 clay bullae depicting Greek and Phoenician deities; and an enormous, solid gold coin – the largest and earliest ever found in Isra-el – whose appearance at Kedesh allows us a bird’s-eye view of power diplomacy in the early second century BCE. Both Phoenicians and Jews had starring roles in the life of this site, and this lecture brings their character and interactions to life. For more information, contact Charles Huizenga at chas. [email protected] or call 781-237-5939.

Andrea Berlin has been an archaeologist since 1973,

with over 30 field seasons throughout the eastern Mediter-

ranean under her belt. She recently wrapped up seven

seasons at Tel Kedesh, in Israel, co-directing the excava-

tion of an imperial administrative compound from the era

of the Maccabees.

Among her four books and over 40 articles is The First Jewish Revolt: Archaeology, History, and Ideology. She is

a prize-winning lecturer for the Archaeological Institute

of America, having lectured for over 50 local societies

around the country. In 2009, she received a national

award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching.

Temple Shir Tikva


Additions to the Temple Shir Tikva LibraryAdditions to the Temple Shir Tikva LibraryAdditions to the Temple Shir Tikva LibraryAdditions to the Temple Shir Tikva Library

by Susan Saul, Librarian

A sampling of some of the newest books added to our collections. Something for everyone!

Adult Jewish Story Finder : A Guide to 668 Tales List-ing Subjects and Sources/Elswit, Sharon Barcan

This book is a concordance of Jewish stories, organized by theme. Within each thematic block, individual tales are given in a brief synopsis. The book gives "connections" (thematic key words) for each story and also lists some other places another author's version of the story appears in print. While it is organized in a way reminis-

cent of a folklore book, "story" here means a piece of writing by an individual author (Torah stories are the exception). The book's real audience is readers seeking entertaining stories that will teach children basic tenets of Jewish faith, the calendar, and the holidays, though the stories are not exclusively reli-gious. [016]

Where Justice Dwells : A Hands-On Guide to Doing Social Justice in Your Jewish Community/ Jacobs, Jill

Jacobs has published much on social justice, and her new volume is a primer on how to do social justice work, con-taining practical advice on organizing groups and congregations to fulfill what she considers to be a Jewish obligation, citing texts to support her view. [360]

All These Vows -- Kol Nidre/Hoffman, Lawrence

Examines the history of the prayer "Kol Nidre," covering its unusual request, how it came into being, and why it was retained in the Jewish tradition. [242.2]

Teen Text Messages : A Torah Commentary for Teens/ Salkin, Jeffrey K. (EDT)

Young people need to be included in the struggle for meaning, for the right ques-tions to ask and the search for useful and relevant answers. This is the book that has been missing from the ever-expanding bookshelf of Torah commen-taries—a collection of messages on each

Torah portion, specifically for today’s teens. It shows them how each Torah portion contains worlds of meaning for them, for what they are going through in their lives, and how they can shape their Jewish identity as they enter adult-hood. [222.07]

Children Be Like God: God's To-Do List for Kids/ Wolfson, Ron

God creates, blesses, rests, calls, com-forts, cares, repairs, wrestles, gives and forgives. For each of God’s super-powers, Dr. Ron Wolfson gives kids stories and suggestions for what might be on their own God’s to-do list— the many ways they can use their super-powers to make a difference in the

lives of others, and find meaning and purpose for their own. [251]

Chanukah Lights/Rosen, Michael J.

Counts the candles of a menorah on each night of Hanukkah while recalling images of Jewish life in different places and times, such Herod's temple in Jerusalem, a shtetl in Russia, and a refugee ship bound for the New World. [Fiction]

It's A… It's A… It's A Mitzvah/Suneby, Liz

Playful illustrations, engaging animal characters and a repeating refrain intro-duce youngsters to a mitzvah celebration of new friends, forgiveness, respect for el-ders and acts of kindness. [256]

Temple Shir Tikva


ippd Temple Shir Tikva

508-358-9992

Brian Levey, President [email protected]

Neal D. Gold, Rabbi [email protected]

Jennifer Gubitz, Assistant Rabbi [email protected]

Herman J. Blumberg, Rabbi Emeritus [email protected]

Hollis Schachner, Cantor [email protected]

David Passer, [email protected] ext. 214 Executive Director

Deena Bloomstone, [email protected] ext. 201 Director of Congregational Learning

Karen Edwards, [email protected] ext. 210 Assistant to the Rabbis and Cantor

Toni Spitzer, [email protected] ext. 200

Office Administrator

Devora Rohr, [email protected] ext. 211

Office Administrator

Lucy Dube, Bookkeeper [email protected] ext. 215

Peggi Cohen, Hineni Editor [email protected] 508-358-6272

JCC Early Learning Center of Wayland Phone: 508-358-5331 Fax: 508-358-5332

Affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism and the Synagogue Council of Massachusetts

Upcoming EventsUpcoming EventsUpcoming EventsUpcoming Events

Sunday, January 6, 9:15 a.m…………..Sisterhood: Knitzvah Seed Grows...Row by Row

Wednesdays, January 9, 16, 23, 30, 6:30 p.m………….Jews & Muslims in Conversation

Thursday, January 10, 7:45 p.m…………………………...Central Asia’s Bukharan Jews

Saturday, January 12, 6:30 p.m…………………………...4th & 5th Grades Sleep-Under

Thursday, January 17, 7:30 p.m………………………….……….Sisterhood: Mah Jongg

Saturday, January 26, 7 p.m……………………………….…Our Annual Comedy Night

Sunday, January 27, 9 a.m.…”Parenting Your Teen Through a Jewish Lens” Begins

To make supporting your congregation and performing the mitzvah of tzedakah more convenient, we have enabled on-line donations. To commemorate or mem-orialize life-cycle events of congregation members, family, or friends, go to www.

shirtikva.org/donate.

Office Hours

School Office Temple Office Sunday…....………………..9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Closed Monday……………………9 a.m. - 5 p.m.…………….9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday……………………9 a.m. - 5 p.m.…………….9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday………………...9 a.m. - 8 p.m.…………….9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thursday…………………..9 a.m. - 5 p.m.…………….9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday……………………..9 a.m. - 2 p.m.…………….9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

January Office Closings:

Tuesday, Jan. 1, closed, New Years’ Day Monday, Jan. 21, closed, Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.

Jeff’s Place Provides a Jeff’s Place Provides a Jeff’s Place Provides a Jeff’s Place Provides a

Meaningful Volunteer Meaningful Volunteer Meaningful Volunteer Meaningful Volunteer

Experience Experience Experience Experience

Jeff’s Place, a community-based, family-focused program, provides FREE peer support groups and services to children and teens, ages preschool through high school, and their caregivers coping with a significant death loss. All families are welcome, regardless of religion, race, eth-nicity or socioeconomic status. Jeff’s Place is open to the entire Metro West community and our support groups are 100% free, though all donations are gratefully accepted. Jeff’s Place support groups take place at Temple Shir Tikva every other Monday evening from 6:30-8:15 p.m. for family participants and from 5:30-9:30 p.m. for Volunteer Facilitators. Volunteers are asked to commit to a mini-mum of one-year (late September-June) facilitating groups after successful com-pletion of the training. For more information or to register for the next Volunteer Facilitator Training, contact Jenny Kaplan Schreiber at jen-

ny@jeffs placemetrowest.org, call 508-276-3225 or visit www.jeffsplacemetro

west.org.

We are extremely appre-

ciative of your dona-

tions. Please help us to

properly allocate your

contributions by writing a note on your

check or using a donation form.

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