Last Shabbat saw the launch of Kol Nefesh in the Inner West. We were so heartened by the turnout (we had more people than chairs at Erskineville Town Hall!) and delighted by your enthusiasm and eagerness to connect. We will be offering this service on a regular basis and look forward to announcing dates soon.
Last Sunday, Rabbi Kaiserblueth, Youth Engagement Coordinator Avishai Conyer and Kef Kids leader Ruby Grynberg (pictured) represented us at the Zionist Council of NSW's Yom Ha’atzmaut festival, where they gave away stacks of prizes and chatted to you about our programs for children, teens and young adults—register here to stay in the loop.
Speaking of teens, the deadline to apply for our brand-new Jewish youth leadership program, Ofakim, is fast approaching. Kids in years 8 and 9 will graduate the six-month program with a certificate for their CV, and a stack of new transferrable skills and experiences under their belts. Learn more and apply here.
This Saturday evening (Lag B'Omer), we're looking forward to gathering for Shirat Ha'lev: A Night of Hebrew Kirtan Chants with Nadav Kahn and Rabbi George Mordecai, who will introduce us to a sacred practice that bridges ancient traditions with contemporary spirituality. Learn more and book here.
The following week, on Sunday 2 June at 4.00 pm, Rabbi Jacqueline Ninio will lead a conversation with Shira Sebban about her latest work, Vietnam's Modern Day Boat People: Bridging Boarders for Freedom. Book here.
In less than three weeks, on Tuesday 11 June, we invite you to join us for our Erev Shavuot service and the induction of our new board members, before we embark on a timely, necessary Tikkun Leil Shavuot, Navigating the Nuance: Wresting with Our Differences After October 7th. Over the course of the evening, we will create a space for individuals to share the impact of the last months on their personal, work and community life, and Rabbi Jacqueline Ninio will draw on her quarter-century’s experience to help us traverse this unfamiliar terrain. Following a break for dinner, each of our rabbis will present a text that offers guidance about how to effectively disagree without it resulting in conflict. In the final session, after being treated to cheesecake, we will form smaller circles to learn, share and connect on a more personal level. We want you all here for this one. Secure your spot.
This Shabbat, we pray that we can remain connected in the face of this enduring crisis. May peace and healing come soon.
Shabbat shalom.
SUPPORT YOUR SYNAGOGUE
Since October 7th, we have been so proud to witness the amazing support of our Emanuel community for Israel, particularly its progressive appeals and movements. And, we have found it so rewarding to collaborate with many of these organisations and other religious and political allies who have been regularly present on our campus.
The end of the financial year is again upon us, and this is the perfect opportunity to make a tax-deductible donation to empower our clergy to continue their important work of building, supporting, and ensuring the future of our community. Every donation makes a difference.
We thank each of you for your continued generosity and commitment, and we look forward to the next chapter in our shared story.
HIGH PRIORITY: Support the vital work of ARZA Australia and Mercaz Masorti, organisations dedicated to safeguarding our progressive values at the World Zionist Congress in Israel, by becoming a member today.
On Monday 27 May, at Conversations About Israel, join Rabbi George Mordecai and special guest Michael Chaitow, the former director of digital strategy for NIF in New York, for an exploration of the New Israel Fund's efforts in supporting Israeli civil society and rebuilding after October 7th. Discover the mission of NIF, its ongoing work, and how it has been aiding both Israelis and Palestinians since October 7th. Join us live on emanuelplus or in person from 10.00 am.
Masorti Shabbat Service 6.15 pm | Neuweg Sanctuary
SAT 25 MAY
Masorti Shabbat Service 9.00 am | Neuweg Sanctuary
Progressive Shabbat Service 10.00 am | Heritage Sanctuary Bat Mitzvah of Maya Haim
Bar Mitzvah Service 10.00 am | Millie Phillips Sanctuary Bar Mitzvah of Oriel Shilton
Kid's Shabbat Service 10.15 am | Education Centre
Shirat Ha'Lev with Rabbi Mordecai & Nadav Kahn – register here 6.30 pm | Neuweg Sanctuary
Bat Mitzvah of Maya Haim (Progressive) Bar Mitzvah of Oriel Shilton Bar Mitzvah of Jacob Davis (Mincha)
BEHAR
RABBI JEFFREY KAMINS
This week’s parasha, Behar, begins with these words: “God spoke to Moses Behar Sinai” (at Mount Sinai). Next week’s parasha, Bechukotai, concludes with the words; “These are the mitzvot God gave Moses for the Israelite people on Mount Sinai.” Interestingly, the Torah never enumerates the number of mitzvot nor lists in any form of legal code what they are. In fact, the statement there are 613 mitzvot comes from only one passage in the Talmud. Continue reading
We extend our sincerest sympathies to those in our community who are mourning the death of their loved ones and we grieve the loss of so many lives in the current war in the land of Israel.
PASSED AWAY IN THE PAST 30 DAYS
Wendy Rosenthal, Jocelyn Berger, Beryl Pinshaw, Peter Ryba.
YAHRZEIT On the anniversary of the death of a loved one, Yahrzeit (annual remembrance) is observed by their relatives. Every year, in the lead up to this day, we will contact you to advise that your loved one's name will be read on the Shabbat before the Yahrzeit.
We invite you to arrange a call up to the Torah in memory of your loved one by completing the form at the link provided in the reminder email.
RABBI MORDECAI'S LISTENING CIRCLE – 7.15 pm, Thursday 30 May.
KOL NEFESH–6.15 pm, Friday 31 May. Service followed by a vegetarian potluck. Dates for 2024: 28 June, 26 July, 30 August, 27 September, 1 November and 6 December.
KOL NEFESH INNER WEST–Stay tuned for upcoming dates.
TISCH FOR TEENS–Stay tuned for upcoming dates for our brand-new program from Emanuel Synagogue and NETZER, where we will share memories, tell stories, and sing our favourite tunes.
APPLICATIONS CLOSING SOON
Ofakim Leadership Program for students in years 8 and 9, designed to empower young Jewish leaders.
Emanuel Synagogue members have free access to our streaming platform, emanuelplus. Please contact info@emanuel.org.au or call us on (02) 9389 6444 if you need help getting started.
A popular recent addition La Luna, the enchanting musical by the extraordinary Joanna Weinberg about a Portuguese Jewish philanthropist of the Renaissance Europe-era who helped Jews flee the Spanish Inquisition, we have been fielding requests to make it available for streaming and we have heard your cries. Gather the family around and experience the magic for yourself. Rent or buy at emanuelplus; package includes a special introduction by Joanna and a night with the actors.
Experience the beauty of Shabbat melodies guided by Rabbi George Mordecai and Avishai Conyer, and let yourself be carried to new spiritual heights. Join the magic for an enchanting evening of soul-stirring song, captivating dance, and heartfelt prayer.
Nora's Kitchen Cooking Classes A unique opportunity to learn new techniques, experiment with flavours, and explore Jewish culinary traditions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook, Nora's Kitchen has something for everyone.
Sydney Sacred Music Festival Immerse yourself in a sacred journey, harmonising both the senses and the spirit. In this one-of-a-kind recorded performance by the Sacred Women's Voices, every note carries the potential to elevate and transcend. Be transported to realms beyond imagination.
SHIRAT HA'LEV:
A NIGHT OF HEBREW KIRTAN CHANTS AT EMANUEL SYNAGOGUE Saturday 25 May, 6.30 pm | Emanuel Synagogue
Join us for a soulful evening of Hebrew kirtan chants, where hearts unite and souls are linked. Led by the talented Nadav Kahn and Rabbi George Mordecai, alongside other musicians and guests, Shira Ha'lev promises to be a transformative experience.
IN CONVERSATION WITH SHIRA SEBBAN Sunday 2 June, 4.00 pm | Emanuel Synagogue
Join us for an insightful conversation with Shira Sebban, a Sydney-based refugee advocate and author of Vietnam’s Modern Day Boat People: Bridging Borders for Freedom, inspired by a story in The Weekend Australian.
GETTING STARTED WITH ASHKENAZI JEWISH DNA Sunday 16 June, 10.00 am | Zoom
Join the Australian Jewish Historical Society online to hear from world-renowned genealogist and Co-Founder of The Holocaust Reunion Project, Jennifer Mendelsohn.
NETZER SYDNEY WINTER CAMP 9 – 4 July | Location to be announced
Experience an extraordinary week of pure Netzer fun at MACHANE OCHEL OLAMI. Designed for participants from years 3-12, this winter camp offers a week-long immersive adventure like no other. From captivating workshops to thrilling activities, every moment is tailored to inspire and empower.
In these difficult economic times, many people are finding themselves in need of support and food. In the breezeway, by the lift, we will be collecting non-perishable food items. Whenever you are in synagogue, if you remember to bring something to place in the basket, we can live the deepest teachings of Judaism about caring for others and supporting people in need.
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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: ASYLUM SEEKERS CENTRE
We're looking for more volunteers to service our monthly lunches for the Asylum Seeker Centre (ASC) in Newtown. This involves preparing, serving and cleaning up after the lunches. Contact info@emanuel.org.au to get involved.
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WANTED: READING SUPPORT VOLUNTEERS
We invite people who have as little as one hour a week to spare during school terms, to join this group in making a difference to the lives of young children. No formal skills are required; training and support will be provided. Email socialjustice@emanuel.org.au to participate.
