Congregation Netivot Shalom in Berkeley!

Press Release issued by the official Eunuch Spokesperson from the Three-Cornered Office of the Royal House of Shushan, for immediate distribution throughout the land*

2012-02-29T14:55:00.001-08:00

Press Release issued by the official Eunuch Spokesperson from the Three-Cornered Office of the Royal House of Shushan, for immediate distribution throughout the land*

(*authorized, of course, by the "Royal Scepter" of the King)

Save the date!

March 14th at 6:30pm!

Trout Fishing in American performs at Netivot Shalom!

Purchase discounted tickets by clicking here!

Purchase your own copy

of CNS's "Paths of Torah during office hours at CNS or at Afikomen!

Friday night, March 16th at 6pm in the CNS Library!

Click here to learn some of the melodies!

Purim 5772 @ CNS!

Wednesday Evening, March 7th:

- Pre-Purim Dinner (food for purchase) at 5:15pm,

- Megillah/Ma'ariv at 6:30pm, with a child AND GROWN-UP! costume parade, a cash bar, and childcare!

- All this will be followed by Live Music in the Social Hall by Rabbi Bochner, Jon Erlich, Rom Rosenblum, and Joel Siegel!

Thursday Morning, March 8th:

- Shacharit and Megillah reading at 9:30am!

...& for some great online Purim Resources, check out MyJewishLearning.com!

Place an ad in the CNS Gala Tribute Journal!

At this year's Gala (April 29), Netivot Shalom will be honoring Rabbi Creditor upon the 10th anniversary of his ordination as a rabbi. Though the formal invitations will be mailed soon, the Ad Journal deadline is fast approaching. We've succeeded in extending the deadline until March 19th, and ask you to support our community by placing an ad in the Journal. Please click here for the Ad Form!

Gabbai Class info and flier

2012-02-29T14:51:00.001-08:00

Did you ever want to learn how to be a calling gabbai?

This is your chance!

Calling Gabbai Workshop

with Debby Graudenz

Sunday March 25^th

2 – 3pm

please RSVP to graudo1@pacbell.net

This is a FREE workshop,

donations to the Adult Ed Committee gladly accepted!

Debby will cover the responsibilities of the Calling Gabbai:

what to do, how to do it, and when to (and when not to) do it!

--
R' Shalom Bochner
Director of Life Long Learning Congregation Netivot Shalom
education@netivotshalom.org
510-549-9447 ext. 104
check out our new hebrew school blog! http://cnsshorashim.blogspot.com/

Presenting: Chug Ivrit!

2012-02-23T13:01:00.001-08:00

CNS's V'Zot Yisrael Committee Presents:

Chug Ivrit!

We are excited to announce that V'Zot Yisrael at Netivot Shalom is organizing a Chug Ivrit! The goal is to strengthen the ability of attendees to converse in Hebrew.

If you know how to read Hebrew, have some exposure to Hebrew conversation, and want to become more fluent, this is THE place to be! The difficulty level will be adjusted (from easy to moderately advanced) depending on the skill level of those who attend. If you are an expert speaker already, you can come and help the rest of us struggle to complete full sentences.

CNS member Yehudit Rothman has volunteered to be our Chug madricha. Yehudit teaches Hebrew at Tehiyah Day School and will be using excerpts from the Jerusalem Post Ivrit monthly periodical as the basis for our discussion.

Currently we are planning to hold a session once per month on a Sunday morning. Three dates have been set. The time will be from 10:30 AM - noon except the kick-off program on March 11 will be from 10:00 - 11:30 and will be preceded by a Shacharit minyan at 9:00 AM, followed by a light breakfast.

Sunday, March 11

Sunday, April 15

Sunday, May 13

Yehudit promises to have a welcoming, accepting environment and we hope you will join us for this fun and enriching experience. To help us plan, we would appreciate a reply if you are interested in participating and indicate your Hebrew conversation ability level (on scale of 1-5, beginner to fluent).

B'shalom,

Art (Asher) Braufman for V'Zot Yisrael

abraufman@lmi.net

Paths of Torah, Minyan Lev Shalem, Trout Fishing in America, & more!

2012-02-16T16:28:00.001-08:00

Upcoming Events @ CNS!

Paths of Torah, Minyan Lev Shalem, Trout Fishing in America, & more!

This Friday night at 6pm
in the CNS Library!

Click here to learn some of the melodies!

Save the date!

March 14th at 6:30pm!

Trout Fishing in American performs at Netivot Shalom!

Purchase tickets in advance!

Click here!

$10/adult, $6/under 13

$30 maximum/family

Program brought to you by CNS's Shorashim Religious School!

Sunday, Feb 26th at 1pm: A Learning Celebration in honor of the publication of "Paths of Torah!"

After 3 years of sacred work by over 60 members of Congregation Netivot Shalom, the book "Paths of Torah" was published this month! "Paths of Torah", a professionally edited collection of shul members' Divrei Torah over twenty years. The book reflects the diversity of one Jewish community's ongoing relationship with Torah. It is an unfinished record of an ongoing, cross-generational dream. In the pages of our new treasure, readers will find heirlooms, stories, struggles and dreams, and most important, an invitation to continue the dialogue with Torah. At this celebration, Torah learning will be facilitated by some contributors to the book, coffee, light refreshments, and childcare will be provided.

Purchase your copy of "Paths of Torah" at the event, at Netivot Shalom during office hours, at Afikomen Judaica, or through EKS online at ekspublishing.com!

Place an ad in the CNS Gala Tribute Journal!

Paths of Torah, Minyan Lev Shalem, Trout Fishing in America, & more!

2012-02-16T16:25:00.001-08:00

Upcoming Events @ CNS!

Paths of Torah, Minyan Lev Shalem, Trout Fishing in America, & more!

This Friday night at 6pm
in the CNS Library!

Click here to learn some of the melodies!

Save the date!

March 14th at 6:30pm!

Trout Fishing in American performs at Netivot Shalom!

Purchase tickets in advance by contacting Rachel in the CNS office!

$10/adult, $6/under 13

$30 maximum/family

Program brought to you by CNS's Shorashim Religious School!

Sunday, Feb 26th at 1pm: A Learning Celebration in honor of the publication of "Paths of Torah!"

Purchase your copy of "Paths of Torah" at the event, at Netivot Shalom during office hours, at Afikomen Judaica, or through EKS online at ekspublishing.com!

Place an ad in the CNS Gala Tribute Journal!

Trout Fishing in America Concert! March 14th at 6:30!

2012-02-15T15:23:00.001-08:00

March 14th, 6:30

Congregation Netivot Shalom

1316 University Ave, Berkeley

DINNER for purchase beginning at 5:15pm

Purchase discount Tickets in advance!

$10/adult

$6/under 13

$30/family maximum

Tickets at the door: $12/adult, $8/under 13

CNS Gala 5772 - Tribute Journal deadline extended!

2012-02-14T15:31:00.001-08:00

Dear Netivot Shalom Friends,

Most of you have already received the Save the Date and Tribute Journal Ad letter for the CNS Gala 5772, where we will be honoring Rabbi Creditor upon the 10th anniversary of his ordination as a rabbi. Though the formal invitations will be mailed soon, the Ad Journal deadline is fast approaching. We've succeeded in extending the deadline until March 19th, and ask you to support our community by placing an ad in the Journal. Please click here for the Ad Form, and email us at cnsgala5772@gmail.com with any questions!

Kol Tuv,

April Oldenburg, Gala Co-Chair

Michael Tarle, Gala Co-Chair

Rabbi Creditor: Reflecting on Communal Purpose

2012-02-12T14:24:00.001-08:00

A Note from Rabbi Creditor:

"Reflecting on Communal Purpose"

Dear Chevreh,

Our shul was standing room only last night as Anat Hoffman, Chairwoman of Women of the Wall, shared of her work and experience to the over 300 people gathered in our sanctuary (as can be seen in the photo above and those archived here). We were inspired by her passion, disturbed by her experiences, and ready to join the call, coined by WOW's fiscal sponsor The New Israel Fund, "Say yes to a better Israel!"

There are far too few places in our community where the hard questions asked last night can be answered by a liberal Zionist activist dedicated to Israel's future as the democratic homeland for the Jewish People committed to ethical treatment of all its citizens. Last night demonstrated that this approach (explained beautifully in this YouTube video by Conservative Rabbi Jack Moline and Reform Rabbi Daniel Zemel) resonates loudly in our community. Netivot Shalom's commitment to the ethical vision of Religious Zionism inscribed in the Israeli Declaration of Independence by Israel's founders is clear, even in the midst of Berkeley's politically-charged landscape.

But last week I encountered a set of commitments I believe we officially support yet don't currently confront as a community. I participated in an intense service at Glide Memorial Church in memory of Robert Kamin z"l and Susan Poff z"l, two heroic activists who died tragically two weeks ago. I was overwhelmed not only by the 1,000+ people who attended the service, but also by the Church's purpose which was manifest in the line of people struggling with poverty and homelessness lined up outside the church. They stretched around the block, and were there from the time I arrived until the time I left, 4 hours later. They are always there. I am not. My heart pounded both with the shock of stepping into "the real world" and with the realization that during the last year we have been so rightfully and urgently concerned with the survival of Netivot Shalom that we have, I believe, paid much less attention to another core aspect of our purpose. Our mission statement, proudly displayed on our website, states that we are:

"an egalitarian, participatory Sacred Community that encourages and engages in Tefilah (Prayer), Torah (Learning), Tzedekah (Social Justice), and Kehillah (Community) within our congregation and the broader community."

I believe Netivot Shalom is excellent (and getting better!) at Tefilah, Torah, and Kehillah. But we have a lot of work to do on Tzedakah. Our commitment to the Berkeley Men's Shelter has been well-attended, but consider that we are a community of over 400 households with a monthly commitment that involves, at most, 20 people.

As is true of every group, focus ebbs and flows to different activities, based on reality and personal involvement. There is nothing strange about this. But whereas we are not obligated to complete every task at once, neither are we exempt from (re)starting our work. Jewish tradition tells us that "pikuach nefesh/saving a life" is the supreme mitzvah. It is this imperative that must be the purpose of all of other Jewish acts. If we are to be our whole self as a community, we must not lose sight of the contribution we are called to be to the world around us. We cannot be about institutional self-perpetuation. And we are certainly not that. Let us be clear about our priorities: The urgent work of the Capital Campaign is to save our shul. That comes first. But it is not the "why" of our community - it is the "how."

I pray that, through the success of our Capital Campaign, each of you will grant us the strength to deepen our commitment to Tzedek/Social Justice. We are not out of the financial woods yet. But, while skillfully confronting the forest, we are blessed to be mindful enough to see the beauty and fragility of each tree calling for our care.

If you are aware of a way to re-invigorate our community's Tzedek commitment, please contact me. We are stronger together than we are individually. Last night's event was a reminder that sometimes, all it takes to refocus a community's attention is a passionate activist with a good amplification system. Let's embody that passion as a community of activists, dedicated to Tikkun Olam/healing the world. Here are three current ways to support individual members' current Tzedek projects:

CNS member Judy Massarano has connected her 2nd-grade class at OHDS with an organization called April Showers, which supports the homeless of San Leandro, by collecting toiletries, etc. for those in need. Collections of travel size toiletries, deodorant, toothpaste or toothbrushes, and combs are needed. Please bring donations of this kind to the shul office during February, and we will arrange their delivery thanks to Judy's commitment.
CNS member Josh Kornbluth is preparing for the "Solvang Century," a 100-mile ride that with Team In Training on March 10, to raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). You can support Josh's efforts by making a donation here.
And we are committed as a community to supporting the Tzedek work of Women of the Wall, supporting women's voices at the Kotel and in Israel. Last night's event happened largely through the work of CNS member Rabbi Pam Frydman. Please consider making a gift to WOW by clicking here.

May the strength of our precious community grow, so that we can add ever-more strengthto healing our world.

Shavuah Tov,

Rabbi Creditor

Congregation Netivot Shalom

1316 University Avenue / Berkeley, California 94702 / info@netivotshalom.org

Berkeley Men's Shelter Report/Invitation

2012-02-12T11:05:00.001-08:00

Netivot Shalom @ the Berkeley Men's Shelter

He arrived on a bicycle with a cardboard box. Jan Raymond had signed up on the Google docs spread sheet to bake desert for the Men's Shelter meal on February 5. He brought the box into my kitchen and displayed the medium-sized mountain of home-made rugelach. A taste was in order. Yum! After he left, a few more "tastes" were in order....

Susi's menu included bierocks (sort of like Shepherds Pie), a much-loved family recipe from her Oklahoma Grandma. Coupled with baked potatoes, a green salad with lots of veggies, and fresh-fruit salad, the dinner was a huge success. The men wanted seconds. Additionally, the men (and volunteers) wanted seconds, thirds, and fourths of rugelach! Jan had baked plenty so we indulged (or, as my Russian Grandma would have said, "overdulged").

Brenda shopped for the dinner, Yonit helped prepare the green and fruit salads and washed dishes; Aaron worked on the salads, setting up the food line, preparing the iced tea and the plates for the late-comers. Laura and Liora prepared the dough for the bierocks, David and Michael prepared the bierocks filling. Julie, Esther, and Margaret helped with the finishing touches, served the dinner, and helped clean-up. While the food was bubbling in the oven, Liora shared a drash on Elijah the prophet. When we entered the dining hall to greet and serve the men we encountered them with newly opened eyes.

We cook, again, on Sunday, March 4. We have plenty of volunteers already

signed up for that evening except that no one has, as of yet, volunteered to lead a drasha or brief discussion with the volunteers. Is that something you can contribute? There is still plenty of volunteer-need for Sunday, April 1, and the sign-up sheet is waiting for you at tinyurl.com/CNSshelterdinnersignup or e-mail Ednah Friedman at edmal@aol.com.

A Tu Bishvat Note from Rabbi Creditor: "Tu Much"

2012-02-07T19:22:00.001-08:00

This Saturday Night at CNS!

Feb 11, 7:30pm

Anat Hoffman

Chairwoman of Women of the Wall!

"Women of the Wall, Social Justice and Human Rights in Israel"

Congregation Ner Tamid of San Francisco,

Congregation Beth Israel Judea of San Francisco, JCC of San Francisco, The New Israel Fund, & Rabbis for Women of the Wall

This Sunday at CNS!

Feb 12, 10:30am

"The Life & Music of Arik Einstein" with Professor Arie Dubnov!

Prof Dubnov will show how Einstiein's music reflects a periodof restless nostalgia among Israeli youth of the '70's, the generation, known as "dor habanim," the "generation of the sons." This generation came of age after the establishment of the state of Israel and struggled with identity issues in the wake of their parents' achievements and how Israeli society came to define itself -- and them. Join us for Professor Dubnov's FREE lecture, Arik Einstein's music, and of course, discussion. Lecture and discussion preceded by the Sunday Morning Minyan @ 9:30am and breakfast. Join us for both!!

Program brought to you by CNS's V'Zot Yisrael Committee. For more information, email vezotyisrael@netivotshalom.org or visit www.netivotshalom.org/vezot_yisrael

A Tu Bishvat Note from Rabbi Creditor: "Tu Much"

Erev 15 Shvat 5772

Feb 7, 2012

Dear Chevreh,

Tonight is Tu Bishvat, the Jewish celebration of Trees, an annual reminder to to care for the world we inhabit. (For some great Tu Bishvat resources, click here!)

It is important to see ritual moments like Tu Bishvat as reminders, not as singular events. Do we only practice Teshuvah (repentence) on Yom Kippur? Are we aware of our freedom
only on Pesach? Are we grateful for Israel's birth only on Yom Ha'atzma'ut? These questions have obvious answers, and yet I wonder about our communal attention span. After all, as we learn in the Talmud: "New troubles make the Jewish People forget the old." Is it even possible to remain steadily focused on Teshuvah, freedom, Israel and the environment?

To be honest, I don't know. That's a lot to carry in our hearts when so much else is clamoring for our limited attention.

And this is yet another reason community matters so much. I can't hold all these things in my heart alone. No one person can. But just today, the CNS Preschool and the Shorashim Religious School shared Tu Bishvat experiences, and 50 CNS members will share a Tu Bishvat Seder tonight. Netivot Shalom is a sacred village with many leaders, each of whom offers their heart as an anchor to (at least) one meaningful commitment, and as we grow as a community, so too does our capacity to impact the world positively.

Chag Sameach! May this Tu Bishvat see us engage with our roots as our branches continue to reach for Heaven!

Rabbi Creditor

News from Congregation Netivot Shalom

2012-02-03T14:25:00.001-08:00

LISA

February 4, 2012

Congregation Netivot Shalom

Shabbat E-News

This week's Parashah is Beshalach / Shabbat Shira

Candlelighting: 5:16pm - Havdalah after: 6:16pm

Click Here for the Shabbat Sheet!

Shabbat Service Schedule

Psukei D'Zimra

Claire Sherman

Shacharit

Larry Hanover

Torah Service

Rebeccah Simon

Calling Gabbai

Eugene Berg

Pointing Gabbai

TBA

Parashat Beshalach, Exodus 14:15-16:10 (pg.403)

Rishon 14:15-20

Alice Webber

Sheini 14:21-25

Alice Webber

Shlishi 14:26-15:21

Nurit Novis-Deutsch

Revi'i 15:22-26

Benjamin Epstein

Chamishi 15:27-16:3

Benjamin Epstein

Shishi 16:4-7

Benjamin Epstein

Shvi'i 16:8-10

Benjamin Epstein

Maftir 16:8-10

Benjamin Epstein

Haftarah Judges 4:4-5:31 (p.424)

David Mostardi

Drasha

Rabbi Gail Diamond

Musaf

Rabbi Menachem Creditor

Board Rep

Elisabeth Kashner

Refuah Shleima and Yahrzeit
Refuah Shleima: A complete healing to Dina Beck, Joe Becker, Samuel Gold, Cristofer Lix, Herbert Maccoby, Pauline Quittel, Avi Rosenblum, Helene Rosov, Matt Ruppel, William Steinbaugh, Bernarda Strauss, Yehudah ben Rachel, Daniel ben Shoshanna, Yehudah Tsvi ben Tsipora, Yosef ben Mordechai v'Sossi, Miriam Simcha bat Chaya, Yehoshua ben Hadassah, and Laybel Velvel ben Mireleh v'Reuven .

Yahrzeits include: Harry Cohen, Esther Cygelfarb, Beatrice Domb, Sylvia Facher, Cantor Don Fischer, Leon Frank, David Hellman, Arthur Bennett Kramer, George Levine, Abraham Liebhoff, Harry Rappaport, Kate Roth Oliner, Robert Ray Stewart, and Harry R. Valas

Netivot Shalom Calendar | Rabbi Creditor's Blog | Preschool Blog

Shorashim Hebrew School | Adult Ed Blog | Rabbi Bochner's Torah Commentary

Facebook | CNS Blog | Netivot Community Classifieds

Feb 26th at 1pm: A Learning Celebration in honor of the publication of "Paths of Torah!"

2012-02-02T15:57:00.001-08:00

Save the Date!

A Learning Celebration in honor of the publication of "Paths of Torah!"

Sunday, Feb 26th at 1pm

Congregation Netivot Shalom

After 3 years of sacred work by over 60 members of Congregation Netivot Shalom, the book "Paths of Torah" was published this month! "Paths of Torah", a professionally edited collection of shul members' Divrei Torah over twenty years. The book reflects the diversity of one Jewish community's ongoing relationship with Torah. It is an unfinished record of an ongoing, cross-generational dream. In the pages of our new treasure, readers will find heirlooms, stories, struggles and dreams, and most important, an invitation to continue the dialogue with Torah. At this celebration, Torah learning will be facilitated by some contributors to the book, coffee, light refreshments, and childcare will be provided.

Purchase your copy of "Paths of Torah" at the event, at Netivot Shalom during office hours, at Afikomen Judaica, or through EKS online at ekspublishing.com!

This Week: Rabbi Gail Diamond & an awesome Tu Bishvat Seder!

2012-01-31T15:37:00.001-08:00

Upcoming This Week@ CNS!

Se'udah Shlishit with Rabbi Gail Diamond & The CNS Tu Bishvat Seder!

(and don't miss Anat Hoffman & Ari Dubnov next week!)

CNS Tu B'Shevat Seder Tuesday night February 7th at 6:30pm!

$20/person

$90 for a group of five

RSVP Deadline: Friday February 3rd

education@netivotshalom.org

Celebrate Tu B'Shevat, the New Year of the Trees, with a Seder featuring

a fully catered meal by Janice McMillan & highlighting the seven species of the Land of Israel

(Main Course: Talapia Fish or Tofu), Fine Wines and Fresh Fruits! Seder led by Rabbi Shalom Bochner, CNS Director of Life Long Learning!

Feb 12, 10:30am - "The Life & Music of Arik Einstein" with Professor Arie Dubnov!

Prof. Arie Dubnov combines serious socio-historical analysis with fun in his lecture on the work and career of Israeli composer and singer, Arik Einstein. Prof Dubnov will show how Einstiein's music reflects a periodof restless nostalgia among Israeli youth of the '70's, the generation, known as "dor habanim," the "generation of the sons." This generation came of age after the establishment of the state of Israel and struggled with identity issues in the wake of their parents' achievements and how Israeli society came to define itself -- and them. Join us for Professor Dubnov's FREE lecture, Arik Einstein's music, and of course, discussion. Lecture and discussion preceded by the Sunday Morning Minyan @ 9:30am and breakfast. Join us for both!!

Program brought to you by CNS's V'Zot Yisrael Committee. For more information, email vezotyisrael@netivotshalom.org or visit www.netivotshalom.org/vezot_yisrael

Shabbat, Feb 4th: A Special CNS Shabbat with Scholar in Residence Rabbi Gail Diamond!

In addition to delivering the Drasha and teaching the After-Kiddush program this Shabbat @CNS, Rabbi Gail Diamond will share a teaching entitled "Women's Voices - From Torah to Contemporary Israel" during a special Se'udah Shlishit at 5pm (mincha 4:45, se'udah shlishit 5pm, followed my ma'ariv and havdalah). Rabbi Gail Diamond teaches Psalms at the Conservative Yeshiva and serves as the Yeshiva's Associate Director. This program is free and open to the public. Sponsored by: CNS's Adult Education Committee & the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism

Feb 11, 7:30pm - "Women of the Wall, Social Justice and Human Rights in Israel" with Anat Hoffman, Chair of Women of the Wall!

Anat Hoffman is a pioneer of civil rights in Israel. She has promoted Jewish Pluralism, tolerance, and equality in Israeli society and is a leader in the struggle for the right of women to wear a pray shawl and read from the Torah scroll at the Western Wall in Jerusalem. Anat Hoffman is a dynamic and passionate speaker. Please join us for this unique opportunity to hear this trail blazing advocate and to honor her work. This event is free and open to the public.

Sponsored by: Congregation Netivot Shalom of Berkeley, Temple Sinai of Oakland, Women of Temple Sinai, The Israel Center of the Jewish Federation of the East Bay, Congregation Beth El of Berkeley, Oakland Ruach Hadassah, Congregation Ner Tamid of San Francisco, Congregation Beth Israel Judea of San Francisco, JCC of San Francisco, The New Israel Fund, Rabbis for Women of the Wall

Menschen: World Wide Wrap Febraury 5th @ 9:30AM

2012-01-26T16:12:00.001-08:00

Start Superbowl Sunday off wright by wreally wrevving up

with our menschen brothers around the globe at

WORLD WIDE WRAP!

A chance to lay tefillin and say Shacharit with menschen near and far.

Sunday February 5^th @ 9:30 am in Netivot Shalom's library

If you have or can borrow tefillin, please bring a pair

If you don't have tefillin, there will be extra pairs that you can use.

as well as…

Excellent instruction by Art Braufman on how to lay tefillin

So even if you've never done so or your bar mitzvah was a century ago, no matter!

Please RSVP to Michael Meltzer at (510) 339-6492 or

mpmeltzer@comcast.net

Upcoming Speakers @CNS! Rabbi Gail Diamond, Anat Hoffman, and Professor Arie Dubnov!

2012-01-23T11:05:00.001-08:00

CNS Tu B'Shevat Seder - Tuesday night February 7th at 6:30pm!

Celebrate Tu B'Shevat, the New Year of the Trees, with a Tu B'Shevat Seder featuring a catered dinner highlighting the seven species of the Land of Israel. Our ritual seder will be led by Rabbi Shalom Bochner, Director of LifeLong Learning. Join us for a meaningful evening of spiritual celebration, intellectual exploration, a delicious feast, and enjoying this mystical holiday with your Netivot Shalom community!

Netivot Shalom Links...

CNS Website

CNS Blog

CNS Calendar

CNS Preschool

Shorashim Hebrew School

Amitim

Midrasha

CNS Adult Education

Make a donation to

Netivot Shalom!

Upcoming Speakers @ CNS!

Rabbi Gail Diamond, Anat Hoffman, and Professor Arie Dubnov!

Shabbat, Feb 4th: A Special CNS Shabbat with Scholar in Residence Rabbi Gail Diamond!

Rabbi Diamond will give the Shabbat Drasha "Prayer and Dissonance - Can I pray what I don't believe?", an the after Kiddush learning "By the Merit of Righteous Women We Were Redeemed from Egypt", and a teaching entitled "Women's Voices - From Torah to Contemporary Israel" during a Se'udah Shlishit at 5pm (mincha 4:45, se'udah shlishit 5pm, followed my ma'ariv and havdalah).

Rabbi Gail Diamond teaches Psalms at the Conservative Yeshiva and serves as the Yeshiva's Associate Director. Rabbi Diamond served as spiritual leader of Congregation Agudas Achim in Attleboro, Massachusetts, before making aliyah in 2001. She lives with her family in Tzur Hadassah, Israel. These programs are free and open to the public. Sponsored by: CNS's Adult Education Committee

Feb 11, 7:30pm - "Women of the Wall, Social Justice and Human Rights in Israel" with Anat Hoffman, Chair of Women of the Wall!

Anat Hoffman is a pioneer of civil rights in Israel. She has promoted Jewish Pluralism, tolerance, and equality in Israeli society and is a leader in the struggle for the right of women to wear a pray shawl and read from the Torah scroll at the Western Wall in Jerusalem. Anat Hoffman is a dynamic and passionate speaker. Please join us for this unique opportunity to hear this trail blazing advocate and to honor her work. This event is free and open to the public.

Sponsored by: Congregation Netivot Shalom of Berkeley, Temple Sinai of Oakland, Women of Temple Sinai, The Israel Center of the Jewish Federation of the East Bay, Congregation Beth El of Berkeley, Oakland Ruach Hadassah, Congregation Ner Tamid of San Francisco, Congregation Beth Israel Judea of San Francisco, JCC of San Francisco, The New Israel Fund, Rabbis for Women of the Wall

Feb 12, 10:30pm - "The Life & Music of Arik Einstein" with Professor Arie Dubnov!

Prof. Arie Dubnov combines serious socio-historical analysis with fun in his lecture on the work and career of Israeli composer and singer, Arik Einstein. Prof Dubnov will show how Einstiein's music reflects a periodof restless nostalgia among Israeli youth of the '70's, the generation, known as "dor habanim," the "generation of the sons." This generation came of age after the establishment of the state of Israel and struggled with identity issues in the wake of their parents' achievements and how Israeli society came to define itself -- and them. Join us for Professor Dubnov's FREE lecture, Arik Einstein's music, and of course, discussion. Lecture and discussion preceded by the Sunday Morning Minyan @ 9:30am and breakfast. Join us for both!!

Program brought to you by CNS's V'Zot Yisrael Committee. For more information, email vezotyisrael@netivotshalom.org or visit www.netivotshalom.org/vezot_yisrael

News from Congregation Netivot Shalom

2012-01-20T15:10:00.001-08:00

LISA

January 21, 2012

Congregation Netivot Shalom

Shabbat E-News

This week's Parashat is Va'era

Candlelighting: 5:01pm - Havdalah after: 6:02pm

Click Here for the Shabbat Sheet!

Psukei D'Zimra

Rabbi Menachem Creditor

Shacharit

Rabbi Stuart Kelman

Torah Service

Judy Breakstone

Calling Gabbai

Claire Sherman

Pointing Gabbai

TBD

Parashat Vaera, Exodus 7:8-8:15 (pg.357)

Rishon 7:8-13

Barbara Wezelman

Sheini 7:14-18

Barbara Wezelman

Shlishi 7:19-25

Barbara Wezelman

Revi'i 7:26-29

Barbara Wezelman

Chamishi 8:1-6

Glenn Massarano

Shishi 8:7-11

Glenn Massarano

Shvi'i 8:12-15

Glenn Massarano

Maftir 8:12-15

Glenn Massarano

Haftarah Ezekiel 28:25-29:21 (p.370)

Judy Massarano

Drasha

Rabbi Menachem Creditor

Musaf

Rabbi Pam Frydman

Board Rep

Mel Sibony

Refuah Shleima and Yahrzeit

Refuah Shleima: A complete healing to Joe Becker, Ron Brown, Samuel Gold, Cristofer Lix, Herbert Maccoby, Pauline Quittel, Avi Rosenblum, Helene Rosov, Matt Ruppel, William Steinbaugh, Bernarda Strauss, Yehudah ben Rachel, Daniel ben Shoshanna, Yehudah Tsvi ben Tsipora, Yosef ben Mordechai v'Sossi, Miriam Simcha bat Chaya, Yehoshua ben Hadassah, Yehudit bat Chava Basha and Laybel Velvel ben Mireleh v'Reuven .

Yahrzeits include: Harry Alter, Gertrude Aronstein, Yoseph Bruchiel, Lorelei Freda Cohen, May Darrow, Sarah Feinstein, Israel Dov Gerstel, Mary Jo Juster, Nancy Kennedy, Esther Landau, Celia Levin, Stevens Manning, Jr., Florence Marson, Edwin Posner, Molly Rock, Mary Rosenblatt, William Samelson, Gail Schwartz, and Judy Tobias Davis

Netivot Shalom Calendar | Rabbi Creditor's Blog | Preschool Blog

Shorashim Hebrew School | Adult Ed Blog | Rabbi Bochner's Torah Commentary

Facebook | CNS Blog | Netivot Community Classifieds

From Rabbi Creditor: "Paths of Torah" has arrived!

2012-01-14T21:00:00.001-08:00

Save the Date! Feb 11th, 7:30pm, an Evening with Anat Hoffman, Chair of Women of the Wall @ Netivot Shalom! This event is free and open to the public. RSVP requested but not required to Valerie Sopher (510) 232-6244 or vsopher@sbcglobal.net.

A Note from Rabbi Creditor
"Paths of Torah"

Dear Chevreh,

Thanks to incredible work for the past 3 years by over 60 members of the shul, Netivot Shalom's book "Paths of Torah" has arrived!

Copies will available for purchase at Afikomen starting this Sunday, and in the shul office later this week! Tremendous gratitude for this amazing collection of over 20 years of Drashot at our shul is due Claudia Valas (project manager), Peter Strauss (editor), Judith McCullough (associate editor), Lee Bearson (book designer), and Ellen Gobler (layout editor). Paths of Torah reflects the diversity of our precious community's ongoing relationship with Torah over twenty years. It is an unfinished record of an ongoing, cross-generational dream. In the pages of our new treasure, you will find heirlooms, stories, struggles and dreams, and most important, an invitation to continue the dialogue with Torah.

May we be blessed to be part of this passionate dialogue with Torah for many, many years to come!

Shavuah Tov,

Rabbi Creditor

Congregation Netivot Shalom

Berkeley, CA

netivotshalom.org

From Rabbi Creditor: Rebeginning Our Story

2012-01-08T18:49:00.001-08:00

Join the Young Adults Chevreh at Netivot Shalom for Kabbalat Services and a delicious dinner - sponsored by the Netivot Shalom Young Adults - on the 2nd Friday of every month! For more information, click here!

Book group starting!

Tuesday, January

10 at 7:30, with

Nobel prize-winning author S.Y. Agnon's, Two Tales as our first book. Come join us for our first book discussion, and suggest titles for

future meetings. RSVP to vezotyisrael@netivotshalom.org!

Netivot Shalom @ the Berkeley Men's Shelter!

We're cooking and serving, again, on Sunday, February 5. We could use some help from 6:30 - 8:00 PM. We'd love to have you join us! Go to tinyurl.com/CNSshelterdinnersignup

or e-mail Ednah Friedman at edmal@aol.com.

A Note from Rabbi Creditor

Rebeginning Our Story

On the way into the Preschool's Pretend Shabbat this past Friday I stood for a moment in the lobby of our shul. I listened to the children and parents sharing sweet moments before we began singing brachot and jumping around in our sanctuary, thanking our teachers for the Torah they shared during the past week. These spontaneous moments before the planned ones are just so delicious.

They stay with me as I engage in many other aspects of our communal life: the births, the deaths, the celebrations and sadnesses. We are blessed, in the deepest of ways, to not wait for these climactic moments to see each other. It is also the conversation in the shul parking lot or the comments on the shul's Facebook group, the pinochle game and the kitchen gatherings that give our sacred community its colorful texture.

I'm currently in Baltimore, participating my yearly professional retreat through the continuing rabbinic education program of the Jewish Theological Seminary. It is one of those combinations of spontaneity and prepared encounters that refreshes the soul, reminding me that, for all the structured (ritual) moments I celebrate, it is also the informal friendships that inspire and fill life.

We are a special community, Chevreh, one that skillfully mixes the sacred ingredients of Keva (structure) and Kavannah (spontaneity) and passionately yearns for more of each. Please think about stepping into a Keva or Kavannah moment at shul sometime soon!

For Keva, see some of the programs on the left or on our online calendar (netivotshalom.org). For Kavannah, just show up and schmooze whenever you find a moment!

We've already received a strong response to the Community Building Committee's Chavurot survey - if you haven't filled one out yet, hard copies are available in the shul office. These new groups will be yet another wonderful way to replenish, reconnect, and share our stories!

May our year find us closer together, experiencing all the vibrancy of the dynamic, thriving community we create every day at Netivot Shalom!

Kol Tuv,

Rabbi Creditor

Congregation Netivot Shalom

Berkeley, CA

netivotshalom.org

Congregation Netivot Shalom | 1316 University Avenue | Berkeley | CA | 94702

from Young Adults at CNS! Join us for monthly Kabbalat Shabbat services and dinner - open to all!

2012-01-05T16:31:00.001-08:00

Book group starting!
Tuesday, January 10 at 7:30, with Nobel prize-winning author S.Y. Agnon's, Two Tales: Betrothed and Edo and Enam as our first book. Come join us for our first book discussion, andsuggest titles for future meetings. Please RSVP to vezotyisrael@netivotshalom.org!

Netivot Shalom @ the Berkeley Men's Shelter!

We're cooking and serving, again, on Sunday, February 5. We could use some help from 6:30 - 8:00 PM. We'd love to have you join us! Go to

tinyurl.com/CNSshelterdinnersignup

or e-mail Ednah Friedman at edmal@aol.com.

Join us for Kabbalat Services and a delicious dinner - sponsored by the Netivot Shalom Young Adults - on the 2nd Tuesday of every month!

We welcome participation from everyone in the Netivot community, including opportunities to lead services and/or present a short drasha during dinner. Email ya@netivotshalom.org to:

Sign up for our mailing list (you will only receive our monthly reminder emails).
Volunteer to lead services/present a drash.
RSVP for services/dinner.
Suggest additional activities for the Young Adults or offer to lead an event.

Dates in 2012 are:

(services @ 6:30 PM, prepared dinner)
January 13
February 10
March 9
October 12
November 9
December 14

(services @ 7:00 PM, potluck dinner)
April 13
May 11
June 8
July 13
August 10
September 14

We look forward to seeing you!

Congregation Netivot Shalom

Berkeley, CA

netivotshalom.org

Berkeley Men's Shelter Report/Invitation

2012-01-03T13:49:00.001-08:00

Netivot Shalom @ the Berkeley Men's Shelter

Sam was smoking a cigarette out back at the Men's Shelter as I unloaded the groceries. He wished me a happy new year and I wished him one, too. I asked him what he hoped for in the new year and he told me that he hoped to have a place of his own. We exchanged hugs.

The Netivot Shalom volunteers arrived; food preparation began in earnest. Susi Lawrence spread out the menu and instructions for us to read. David and Rachel Gill began preparing the vegetable salad and were soon joined by Yonit Levy. Michael Tarle assumed the role of sous chef; ably assisted by Danielle Levy-Wolins and Jacob Richards the salmon loaf and black-eyed peas were prepared. Our friend, Tinh, a Cal student & community service volunteer, manned the guillotine-like can opener. Lydia Brose turned cast-off Starbucks bottles into attractive vases and filled them with flowers. Danielle covered the tables with cloths and Batya Brose set the tables with holiday napkins and utensils.

Barbara Wezelman shared a moving drash. She tracked the physical and metaphorical ups and downs of the Joseph story tying it to the ups and downs of the lives of the men in the shelter. She suggested that we remember with sensitivity that many of the men whom we were serving might very well be at their most "down." The food we prepare as well as the manner in which it is served could in some small way lead to a bit of an "up." Jerry Berkman arrived in time to help set up the dessert and serve. Brownies and cake were baked at home by the Krantz family. We added oranges and grapes for a healthy alternative. As a special holiday touch hot-mulled cider was served with dessert. Batya and Lydia and Jacob washed the pots and pans, Barbara swept the floor. A few of us stayed around for a bit of debriefing. Perhaps Rodgers and Hammerstein said it best in Carousel: "....the vittels we et were good, you bet, the company was the same."

We're cooking and serving, again, on Sunday, February 5. We could use some help from 6:30 - 8:00 PM. We'd love to have you join us! Go to tinyurl.com/CNSshelterdinnersignup or e-mail Ednah Friedman at edmal@aol.com.

Saturday Night: Kadima Game Night & Cookie decorating with an Ice Cream Sundae Bar!

2012-01-02T10:02:00.001-08:00

Please RSVP to Karen Kelley via e-mail at karkai@pacbell.net

or 510-540-1235 by Wednesday, January 4.

Parents if you are interested in helping out, please contact Karen!

Calling all CNS 4th-8th Graders!

Join Kadima @CNS for
Game Night & Cookie

decorating with an
Ice Cream Sundae Bar!
Saturday, January 7, 2012

8:00 - 9:30 PM
(right after the Shorashim School Family Havdallah, at 6:30pm in the Sanctuary)

Save the Date: Anat Hoffman @CNS on Feb 11th!

2011-12-29T11:10:00.001-08:00

Netivot Shalom Links...

CNS Website

CNS Blog

CNS Calendar

CNS Preschool

Shorashim Hebrew School

Amitim

Midrasha

CNS Adult Education

Make a donation to

Netivot Shalom!

Congregation Netivot Shalom is an egalitarian, participatory Sacred Community that encourages and engages in Tefilah(Prayer), Torah (Learning), Tzedeka (Social Justice), and Kehillah (Community) within our congregation and the broader community. Our mission is to inspire Jewish practices among individuals and families who are considering Judaism, are intermarried, or Jewish. We share a commitment to Masorti (Conservative) Judaism and furthering individual and communal spiritual growth, while recognizing a range of personal philosophies, practices and needs.

Save the Date! Feb 11th, 7:30pm

An Evening with Anat Hoffman, Chair of Women of the Wall @ Netivot Shalom

"Women of the Wall, Social Justice and Human Rights in Israel"

This event is free and open to the public.

RSVP requested but not required to Valerie Sopher (510) 232-6244 or vsopher@sbcglobal.net.

A Note for Channukah 5772!

2011-12-14T20:08:00.001-08:00

a Channukah note from Rabbi Creditor

Calling all CNS 4th-8th Graders!

Join Kadima for
Game Night & Cookie
decorating with an
Ice Cream Sundae Bar

Saturday, January 7, 2012
8:00 - 9:30 PM

(after the Shorashim

School Family Havdallah, at 6:30pm in the Sanctuary)

Games include Gaga, Ping-Pong, Uno,

Crafts, & More!

Congregation Netivot Shalom
1316 University Ave
Berkeley, CA 94702

Please RSVP to Karen Kelley via e-mail at karkai@pacbell.net
or 510-540-1235 by Wednesday, January 4.

Parents if you are interested in helping out, please contact Karen!

Netivot Shalom Links...

CNS Website

CNS Blog

CNS Calendar

CNS Preschool

Shorashim Hebrew School

Amitim

Midrasha

CNS Adult Education

Make a donation to

Netivot Shalom!

19 Kislev, 5772

Dec. 14 , 2011

Dear Chevreh,

Channukah is awesome! The central ritual of our upcoming holiday is found in striking a light, igniting a flame, in banishing darkness. This is all the more palpable in the shorter days of winter, but it is also a spiritual act of defiance that you can experience with closed eyes. Jewish history is rife with challenge, but this holiday is one of rededication and bravery, where we reclaimed our holy home in Jerusalem to light our lights once more.

I invite you to tee the days ahead as preparation to dispel darkness. Here are a few links with Channukah resources, including how-to's, calls to action, and reflections.

Lighting the Hanukkah Candles: Blessings & Songs: This 2-page blessings and song-sheet, prepared by Rabbi Ashira Konigsburg, contains the text and translation of the blessings and popular songs to accompany the lighting of the chanukkiah. (RA)
Got Gelt? A Conversation for middle school families and others about giving in this season of receiving. (AJWS)
A Channukah Reflection from "KOLLOT: Voices of Learning" (JTS)
And, for the fun of it, check out some amazing Channukah videos on YouTube!

Channukah is a powerful time, where we seek to heed the teaching of the modern sage Rabbi Ed Feinstein, that the greatest Jewish sin is despair. We are the lamplighters, each one of us a shamash capable of spreading healing and warmth.

May we be blessed to rededicate our Jewish homes, banish darkness with our light, and illuminate the world with blessing!

Kol tuv,

Rabbi Creditor

---

netivotshalom.org

why did they attack the army base? - religious zionism class at CNS

2011-12-14T19:10:00.001-08:00

Why did religious Zionists attack an army base in Israel? What do religious Zionist thinkers have to say about power and the military? This week we will meet at Congregation Netivot Shalom on Thursday, Dec 15at 7:30 pm to discuss power, war and violence in religious Zionism with Rabbi Avi Novis-Deutsch. Feel free to join just for this class! All are welcome!

The Almost-Channukah Fair!

2011-12-07T21:54:00.001-08:00

And don't miss the Release Concert of Rabbi Creditor's new album, "Within", this Saturday Night (Dec. 10) at 8pm!

CNS Website

CNS Blog

CNS Calendar

CNS Preschool

Shorashim Hebrew School

Amitim

Midrasha

CNS Adult Education

Make a donation to

Netivot Shalom!

netivotshalom.org

CNS Social Action: Berkeley Men's Shelter

2011-12-05T23:53:00.001-08:00

Netivot Shalom @ the Berkeley Men's Shelter

The first gentleman in line for dinner greeted us with a hearty "shalom." And "shalom to you, too" we each responded as his dinner plate was filled with the food, hot, and freshly cooked by an especially energetic crew.

We know why we gather the first Sunday of every month: it is all about the guys. On Sunday evening, December 4, we began to gather at 4:30 PM. First came Ednah Beth Friedman with the staples stored in her garage, quickly followed by NS Board Member Joan Bradus who had shopped for and delivered the fresh food needed for this month's dinner. Joan began to clean the lettuces. Next came Jerry Derblich and Zephira Milea-Derblich. Jerry pitched right in on the salad, cutting the peppers and cucumbers into bite sized pieces. Zephira cut up the fresh fruit for desert. Susan Lawrence-Cohen our menu planner arrived. Susi spends a significant amount of quiet time each month deciding upon the menu, figuring out the quantity of ingredients needed to feed approximately 60 men, preparing the shopping list and instructions for the crew. Deborah Enelow came with her own apron and

began to help Susi prepare the vegetarian lasagna. NS President Mel Sibony arrived just in time to begin to wash some of the pans and utensils. Michael Shapira began to assemble the dessert plates and organize the serving table. Later in the evening he scrubbed a prodigious number of pots and pans. Meredith Trauner helped assemble the lasagna, prepare the garlic bread, andmade the juice-drink. Lastly, Mika & Illai Simhi-Aloni and their friend, Tal Garner, joined in. Mika and Illai had made ten dozen cookies for dessert and Tal brought corn bread she had made at home just for this occasion. When the lasagna was in the oven cooking, the green beans on the stove simmering, and the green salad nearing the finishing touches Mel left his post at the kitchen sink and shared with us a fascinating account of the Moroccan-Jewish tradition of Jewish saints. We had a lively discussion. Promptly at 7 PM dinner was served!

When you see these folks next, be sure to offer a "yasher koach" and a "toda raba!" Will you join us in January, February, or March? Sign up at http://tinyurl.com/CNSshelterdinnersignup

News from Congregation Netivot Shalom

2011-12-05T08:25:00.001-08:00

LISA

December 3, 2011

Congregation Netivot Shalom

Shabbat E-News

This week's Parashat is Vayetzei

Candlelighting: 4:32pm - Havdalah: 5:33pm

Click Here for the Shabbat Sheet!

Netivot Shalom Calendar | Rabbi Creditor's Blog | Preschool Blog

Shorashim Hebrew School | Adult Ed Blog | Rabbi Bochner's Torah Commentary

Facebook | CNS Blog | Netivot Community Classifieds

The Almost-Channukah Fair! - FREE!! - Dec. 11, 11am-2pm

2011-11-30T13:02:00.000-08:00

Illuminating our Home

2011-11-29T15:41:00.001-08:00

a note from Rabbi Creditor

Illuminating our Home

Netivot Shalom Links...

CNS Website

CNS Blog

CNS Calendar

CNS Preschool

Shorashim Hebrew School

Amitim

Midrasha

CNS Adult Education

Make a donation to

Netivot Shalom!

3 Kislev, 5772

Nov. 28 , 2011

Dear Chevreh,

It is fascinating that while, in some ways, 'place' has ceased to hold meaning. And yet, in a moment of communal loss, being

'away'is palpable. I return tomorrow night from celebrating Thanksgiving with my family in New York, and during the time I've been away our community has suffered many losses. I was able, thanks to our shul's technology, to witness and participate in our communal responses to each situation, but being away from home is very hard, especially during difficult moments. Technology allows us to skype with our relatives during Thanksgiving dinner (as we did in New York with my sister in Tel Aviv) and enables us to offer comfort across a continent, but it just isn't the same as being home.

We just began the month of Kislev, the month of Channukah,

which commemorates the rededication of our home, the Beit haMikdash/Holy Temple in Jerusalem, by the Maccabees. In those days, and in ours, we believe home is worth fighting for.

Consider the moments we share in our precious home on University Ave. In addition to our ongoing Shabbat and Learning rhythms, the programming at CNS is stunning (and dizzying!). Coming up we'll hold our new Minyan Lev Shalem (this Friday at 6pm), a P.J. Havdalah for Preschoolers and their families (this Saturday at 6:15pm), and this Sunday at 7:30pm we will be hosting a moderated political conversation entitled "Has the Obama Administration Been Good for Israel?"

On a personal note, I'm very excited to celebrate the release of my new CD "Within" at a concert at shul on Saturday Night, Dec. 10th at 8pm! The CD is a paradigm of our community's participatory spirit, with artwork by Karen Friedman, Project Design and Management by Claudia Valas and Alison Jordan, photography by Nadine Samuels, and harmonies by Liz Creditor, Cantor Jennie Chabon, Julie Batz - and Rabbi Kelman! I look forward to sharing music, and supporting our shul with sales of the CD, all of which will be directed to strengthening our shul's home and future.

Mother Teresa once taught that "Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do... but how much love we put in that action." What a blessing to share our sacred home at Netivot Shalom and to fill it with our lives and our love and our dreams. May we be blessed to continue seeing joy and comfort flow in our community, preparing for Channukah by banishing the darkness and igniting each other's lights.

Kol tuv,

Rabbi Creditor

---

netivotshalom.org

Celebrating the Release of Rabbi Menachem Creditor's new album "Within!"

2011-11-28T18:47:00.001-08:00

Celebrating the Release of Rabbi Menachem Creditor's new album "Within!"

CNS, Dec 10, 8pm!

5$ suggested donation at the door

Rabbi Creditor's 9th album, "Within", features 4 new original compositions, one debut recording of a song by Debbie Friedman z"l, and more! The artwork, liner notes, and harmonies are collaborative creations of members of Congregation Netivot Shalom in Berkeley.
Don't miss the "Within" Release Concert December 10th at 8pm @ Congregation Netivot Shalom!

Sunday, Dec. 4th. 7:30pm -- Round-table Discussion Moderated by the JCRC, "Has the Obama Administration Been Good for Israel?"

2011-11-28T18:36:00.001-08:00

More than at anytime in recent years, some in the Jewish community are asking the question about how much support Israel has in the White House, and whether President Obama has helped or harmed Israel's security. Whether you love, loathe or are ambivalent about the President's approach, please join us for a vibrant and open panel discussion (including written and open mic audience Q&A) with 3 Bay Area activists who write and/or speak extensively about the Middle East. Participants are Mike Harris (grassroots activist with StandWithUs/SF Voice for Israel), Jon Segall (liberal pro-Israel blogger, founder of Team Shalom at DailyKos) and Mike Lumish (PhD in history, longtime pro-Israel blogger, and liberal critic of the left). The program will be moderated by Rachel Eryn Kalish.

News from Congregation Netivot Shalom

2011-11-26T20:26:00.001-08:00

November 26, 2011

Congregation Netivot Shalom

Shabbat E-News

This week's Parashat is Toldot

Candlelighting: 4:43pm - Havdalah: 5:41pm.

Click Here for the Shabbat Sheet!

Netivot Shalom Calendar | Rabbi Creditor's Blog | Preschool Blog

Shorashim Hebrew School | Adult Ed Blog | Rabbi Bochner's Torah Commentary

Facebook | CNS Blog | Netivot Community Classifieds

This Week at CNS! OneVoice, Women of the Wall, God vs. Gay, Religious Zionism, & Love and Taxes!

2011-11-14T14:17:00.001-08:00

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here

This Week at CNS!

Rabbis for Women of the Wall, God vs. Gay,

Religious Zionism, Love and Taxes, and more!

Tuesday, November 15, 7:30pm

Yes We Do! Why Rabbis Across the Spectrum Support Women's Rights at the Kotel in Jerusalem

Rabbinic Panel Discussion featuring: Rabbi David Kalb (Orthodox), Director of the Bronfman Center for Jewish Life, 92nd Street Y, New York; Rabbi Menachem Creditor (Conservative), Congregation Netivot Shalom, Berkeley; Rabbi Stephen Pearce (Reform), Congregation Emanu-El; Rabbi Jane Litman, Regional Director, Jewish Reconstructionist Federation; and Rabbi Pamela Frydman (Renewal), Academy for Jewish Religion, California and Moderated by Rachel Biale, Author of Women and Jewish Law and New Israel Fund Lay Leader. - FREE EVENT

November 17, 7:30pm

Jay Michaelson, Author of "God vs. Gay"

Jay Michaelson is a writer, scholar, and activist whose work addresses the intersections of religion, sexuality, spirituality, and law. His newest book is God vs. Gay? The Religious Case for Equality, will be published in October, 2011, by Beacon Press. Jay is is the author of three other books and over 200 articles, essays, and works of fiction. He is the Associate Editor of Religion Dispatches, a Contributing Editor to the Forward newspaper, and Founding Editor of Zeek magazine. Jay's presentation will be followed by a public conversation with Rabbi Michael Lerner. - FREE EVENT, Books available for signing and purchase

November 17, 7:30pm

Ongoing Class on Religious Zionism

with Bay Area Masorti Visiting Scholar Rabbi Avi Novis-Deutsch

Rabbi Avi Novis-Deutsch was born and raised in an Ashkenazi Orthodox family in Jerusalem and has become a leading Israeli-born Masorti rabbi in Israel. He has a BA in Jewish History and Philosophy from the Open University, an M.A. in Talmud and Halacha, and smicha from the Schechter Institute, Jerusalem. He was a pulpit rabbi for the Masorti movement in Jerusalem and worked in a wide variety of non-profit and educational institutions in Israel. He is currently a visiting Masorti scholar from Israel to the Bay Area (and a proud CNS Membber!) for the second year.

November 20, 10:30am

"Jewish Mysticism & the Spiritual Life" with Rabbi Or Rose

Over the last two decades or so, increasing numbers of Jewish and non-Jewish seekers in the United Sates and elsewhere have turned to the teachings of Kabbalah and Hasidism in their spiritual journeys. What are some of the core teachings of these mystical traditions? What has attracted people to them? And what might we glean from our Kabbalistic and Hasidic forebears? Our discussion will include the study of several primary textual sources (provided in the original and in translation), and an open discussion of the possibilities and challenges of engaging these sources in our contemporary cultural contexts. The author or editor of several books and articles on Jewish spirituality, social and environmental justice, and interfaith cooperation, he recently co-edited Jewish Mysticism and the Spiritual Life: Classical Texts, Contemporary Reflections. Rabbi Rose is a member of the Shalom Hartman Institute's North American Scholars Circle, and serves on the editorial committee of Sh'ma: A Journal of Jewish Responsibility. - FREE EVENT, Books available for signing and purchase

Saturday Night, Nov. 19, 8pm

"Love & Taxes" on Stage & Screen with Josh Kornbluth - @CNS!

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS!

The inimitable Josh Kornbluth will entertain, inspire, and thoroughly delight you. Josh has just completed a new film, Love and Taxes, based on Josh's highly successful solo performance piece. The film will be released--when else?--on Tax Day, April 15, 2012. On this sneak-peak evening Josh will perform excerpts from the monologue, show sneak previews of excerpts from the film, and engage in conversation with Rabbi Menachem Creditor.

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS!

and don't miss...

December 10, 8pm: Release concert of Rabbi Creditor's new CD "Within"

This new album is a collaborative shul project featuring original compositions and the debut recording of "V'asu", a song composed by Debbie Friedman z"l upon the dedication of the physical home for Netivot Shalom on University Avenue 6 years ago.

Faces of Israel Screening - Tomorrow!

2011-11-12T18:43:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow! "Faces of Israel" Screening & Discussion
with Filmmaker Amy Beth Oppenheimer
Sunday Evening, November 13th at 6 PM - Hosted by Netivot Shalom - FREE

Join us for an exciting evening of presentation, discussion and film-viewing at the community-wide Faces of Israel event on November 13th. Documentary producer Amy Beth Oppenheimer will be in attendance to facilitate conversation about Jewish identity, religious pluralism, the role of the Chief Rabbinate and civil liberties in Israel today. Followed by a cross-denominational panel. This program is sponsored by Congregations Netivot Shalom, Temple Beth Abraham, Temple Sinai, Beth Israel and Berkeley Hillel. Information at www.facesthemovie.com.

And don't miss these programs at CNS this week! OneVoice Presentation (Monday Night), Women of the Wall Rabbinic Panel (Tuesday Night), Religious Zionism Class (Thursday Night), God vs. Gay book talk (Thursday Night), and Love and Taxes with Josh Kornbluth (Saturday Night)! -- for more information, click here: http://cnsberkeley.blogspot.com/2011/11/news-from-congregation-netivot-shalom.html

---
Rabbi Menachem Creditor
Congregation Netivot Shalom || Bay Area Masorti || ShefaNetwork

Rabbis for Women of the Wall || menachemcreditor.org

To join Rabbi Creditor's email list, send a blank email to thetisch-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

News from Congregation Netivot Shalom

2011-11-12T18:38:00.001-08:00

November 12, 2011

Congregation Netivot Shalom

Shabbat E-News

This week's Parashat is Vayera

Candlelighting: 4:43pm - Havdalah: 5:31pm.

Click Here for the Shabbat Sheet!

Josh Kornbluth: * David Mamet To Open for Me at Temple *

2011-11-08T10:47:00.001-08:00

FROM JOSH KORNBLUTH

Hi, Friends:

We're all aflutter at my local synagogue, Congregation Netivot Shalom in Berkeley, because David Mamet -- playwright, filmmaker, essayist, tough guy -- will be interviewed there this Thursday evening, Nov. 10. This public event will be a benefit for our beloved shul, and the interviewer will be my pal Dan Schifrin of the Contemporary Jewish Museum. I encourage you to buy tickets and hang out with us as the great writer discusses "race, Jews, and power" -- uncontroversial subjects in which I imagine the resourceful Mamet will somehow find a kernel of drama. Tix & info here.

I have taken the liberty of writing a short play in anticipation of this benefit:

Setting: A temple.

Act 1, Scene 1: Interviewer enters sanctuary, sits on one of two chairs, waits. After a time, Playwright enters, clearly agitated.

PLAYWRIGHT: F---in' rabbi. F---in' rabbi. F---in' rabbi. F---in' rabbi. F---in' rabbi. F---in' rabbi. F---in' rabbi.

INTERVIEWER: What's the matter?

PLAYWRIGHT: F---in' rabbi.

Curtain.

Okay, maybe writing dramatic dialogue isn't as easy as I thought -- so I'll stick to what I normally do, monologuing and occasional filmmaking. Both of which I'll get to display at another Congregation Netivot Shalom benefit on Saturday evening, Nov. 19, when I will perform excerpts from my solo piece Love & Taxes and also show clips from the upcoming Love & Taxes feature film I've been making with my brother Jake -- followed by a conversation with Rabbi Menachem Creditor, in which we will neatly resolve all outstanding questions regarding love, taxation, and Judaism. It'll be lots of fun! Tix & info here.

I hope to see you at Congregation Netivot Shalom!!

Take care,

Josh

#OccupyYeshiva (OY)

http://www.joshkornbluth.com/