Thursday, February 28, 2008

TOS eWeekly Feb 27, 2008

Volume 2 Issue 24, February 27, 2008

Weekly Parashah – Exodus Vayakhel 35:1 – 38:20
“Moses then assembled the whole Israelite community and said to them: There are the things which God has commanded you to do: On six days work may be done, but on the seventh day you shall have a Sabbath of complete rest, holy to God; whoever does any work on it shall be put to death." Exodus 35:1-2

For Rabbi Art’s complete post on this week’s Torah portion, click here.

Annual Congregational Meeting
On Sunday, April 27, we will hold our congregational meeting at 9:30 AM in the Sanctuary.  By-laws amendments and board elections will take place then. The slate will be sent out next week. Please mark your calanders for this important event!  We need your attendance.

Sincerely,
Jonathan Mass, President

LOST & FOUND DEPARTMENT
Meredith Silberman lost her Pyrex Dish at TOT SHABBAT. Anyone have it by mistake?  And we are getting quite a collection of coats in the education wing….check it out on Sundays. 

PRESCHOOL HAPPENINGS
The preschool will hold its annual Shabbat dinner on Feb. 29th.  The children have made beautiful Shabbat arts and crafts to share with their families.  They have also been practicing several songs, special for Shabbat, in both English and Hebrew.  We look forward to a wonderful celebration.

Oneg Hosts Needed
If you have been thinking about hosting an Oneg but haven’t signed up, please consider volunteering for one of the following dates:  March 21, March 28, April 11, April 18, May 16, or May 30th.  Please contact Joni Ferrara at (724) 933-3923 or by email at to sign-up.  Thanks for your help

PURIM CARNIVAL HELP!  IT’S GETTING CLOSER!
In preparation for this year’s Purim carnival, The Woman of Ohav Shalom and the Men’s Club are teaming up to refurbish and replace many of our Purim Games.  We are looking for patrons to provide financial support to purchase raw materials and supplies.  Families interested in supporting this effort are encouraged to make a financial donation.  Our craftsmen and craftswoman will be led by Chief carpenters, Jeff Flieder and Mike Danninhirsch.

If you are interested in making a donation please make checks payable to the WOS and send to Marcie Fassler at 517 Tree Line Drive, Gibsonia, PA, 15044.  Those interested in volunteering to assemble and decorate the games should contact Marcie at 724-625-7252 or via email at .

First Friday Dinner
First Friday Dinner is coming up next week, Friday, March 7th! Be sure to register by emailing .

PURIM BALL BY WOS!
Top Ten Reasons to Come to the Purim Ball March 8th at 7:00PM.  $25 per person.

10. Cross dressing is encouraged.  (It’s a night to be whoever you want to be or come as you are)
9.  Haman wins if you’re not there.
8. Sports paraphernalia to bid on.
7. Coffee, tea and jewelry to bid on.
6. For $25.00 beer, wine, appetizers, and dessert is a real bargain.
5. To see Queen Esther. (Maybe even steal a hug)
4. March 8th is a great day to party.
3.  Did I mention silent auction items in every price range from low to high?
2.  This is the Purim celebration where there are no annoying gregars.
1. To support your Temple!

RSVP to Kathy Dougherty
1014 Karcher Drive
Allison Park, Pa 15101
Proceeds go to Life Long Learning, The Preschool at Temple Ohav Shalom, and the Temple Budget

LIFELONG LEARNING AND YOUTH NEWS
Grade 3-4-5 Israeli Maccabi POOL Games and Party will be held this Saturday, March 1st from 4:00 – 6:00pm at the YMCA in Franklin Park.  $5.00 covers admission, pizza, snacks and drinks.  All students must preregister with form and cash payment or by emailing Rebecca Mason at by Thursday noon. Last Call for sign up!

6TH Grade Chidon (pronounced Khee-doan) Israel Quiz-Fest is this Sunday, March 2nd !  Our 6th Grade team, “Gadolim,” (the Giants) will be competing against 10 other Religious School teams at the Jewish Community Center in Squirrel Hill.  We’re so proud of all the hard work and dedication the kids, their families, our teachers and team coach, Ed Fassler, have put into this, representing TOS!  The whole 6th grade class is going to the Chidon to cheer the team on and participate as audience members.  We wish them all the best!

Madrikh Class, Sunday, March 2nd from 5 – 7pm.  Rabbi Art will be showing the movie, “Dogma” and leading a discussion with the 11th and 12th graders.  Please help us plan for dinner arrangements with your rsvp to emailing Alaine Smith, Lifelong Learning Assistant, at .

Horing 2008 High School Graduates, Friday, March 7 at the 7pm Shabbat service.  We would love to honor ALL graduates, whether or not the teens have been active at TOS lately.  Please join in the celebration!  Friday, March 7th is also the 6th grade Shabbat Service and Class dinner (6:15pm).  Rsvp to Alaine Smith, or on the TOS website.

Dance for a Cause!  Ohav Youth/Shalom Mitzvah Corps is holding an inter-faith community high school dance to raise $$$ and awareness about the issues related to children in Foster Care.  March 29th.  7:00 – 10:30.  We need lots of TOS support for our kids in this huge mitzvah project.  Please contact Rebecca Mason or Deb Taylor to see how you can help!  Chaperones for the evening needed!  (our 8th graders have “moved up” and we hope they’ll attend this dance too!)

OY! Kids for Carmiel Talent Show is April 6th at 10:15-11:30AM in the TOS sanctuary.  Tryouts are March 9-11. Contact Life Long Learning for times.

PARENTS SUPPORT GROUP
Our next meeting has been rescheduled to Sunday, March 2nd at 9:15AM due to construction delays. While most of us in the group have kids on the autism spectrum, it is open to parents of all kids with special needs. This month, Laura Marshak, author of Married (With Special Needs) Children will be there for our group discussion.  Please RSVP to if you are attending. Coffee and treats provided. Sponsored by ABOARD.

TOS BLOOD DRIVE will run concurrently with our Purim Festival on Sunday, March 16th starting at 8:30AM. Sign-up at the Temple or by contacting Peggy Jopling () If you want to be a Brighten Life donor, please see the attachment.

UPCOMING EVENTS
Sunday, March 2nd Parents of Special Needs Children Meeting-Multi-Purpose Room
Saturday, March 8th WOS Purim Ball
Sunday March 16th 8:30-Noon TOS Blood Drive
Sunday March 16th Purim Carnival
Thursday, March 20th 7:00PM Disney on Broadway Purim!
Saturday, March 22nd 7:30 An Evening of Music with Tifani Katof
Saturday, March 29th 7:00PM OY! Community Teen Dance For A Cause
Sunday, March 30th 11:00AM-2:00PM Social Action Com.  Serve lunch at Miriam’s Women’s Shelter
Sunday, April 6th QY! Carmiel Talen Show Sanctuary 10:15-11:30AM
Sunday, April 6th 1:00PM Social Action-Riverview Towers
Sunday, April 27th 9:30AM Annual Congregational Meeting
Thursday, May 1st Yom HaShoah v’haGevurah-Day of Destruction & Heroism
Holocaust Remembrance Day-Guest Speaker Sister Camille from Vicentian Academy

WORSHIP SCHEDULE
Friday, February 29 – Parashat Vayakhel
7:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Elaine Rose

Monday, February 25, 2008

Teen Dance for a Cause 3/29/08

3rd Annual High School (9th -12th)
Dance for a Cause
March 29th, 2008
7 - 10:30 PM

Benefitting children in Foster Care

Cost $7 (or $5 if you bring a new stuffed animal with a tag)

All the proceeds go the kids in Foster Care!!!!!!1

This is a drug and alcohol free event.

Click Here for full flyer and info.

Rabbi Art: This week in the Torah 3/1/08

Weekly Parashah – Exodus Vayakhel 35:1 – 38:20
“Moses then assembled the whole Israelite community and said to them: These are the things which God has commanded you to do: On six days work may be done, but on the seventh day you shall have a Sabbath of complete rest, holy to God; whoever does any work on it shall be put to death." Exodus 35:1-2

In this week’s sedra the Torah repeats God’s command forbidding work on the Sabbath (also, Exodus 31:12-14) just as the people were about to start constructing the Mishkan, the wilderness Tabernacle.  Why does the Torah spell out the punishment for violating this command with the death penalty?  How could the Torah compare “violating” Shabbat with “violating” the command “not to murder?” Is Shabbat that important in Jewish life?  Is it a matter of “life and death?”

In ancient Israelite society holiness in time was paramount; God “created” in time! Alongside the holiness of human life the sanctity of Shabbat, holiness in time, was supreme. Here is what Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, of blessed memory, taught,

“Our whole technical way of life and civilization is bent on conquering space and increasing the number of things we control. To enhance our power in the world of space is our main objective. Yet, to have more does not mean to be more. We must not forget that it is not a thing that lends significance to a moment. It is the moment that lends significance to things.
The most distinguished word in the Bible is kadosh, “holy,” a word which is more representative than any other of the mystery and majesty of the Divine. What was the first holy object in the history of the world? Was it a mountain? Was it an altar? No. The first holy thing in the world was a day, the seventh day. Holiness in time, the Sabbath, came first.
When history began, there was only one holiness in the world, holiness in time. When the people stood at Mount Sinai, God told them to be holy. The people couldn’t hold onto that idea for very long. They made a Golden Calf, an idol, and called that holy. They worshipped it. God had to then say to them, “Make Me a Sanctuary, make Me a place in space which is holy. You can worship Me from there. But, holiness in time, the Sabbath, comes first!”

Does holiness in time, Shabbat, come first for you, for your family?  Is Shabbat on your weekly radar?  Would you like to make Shabbat more important in your life? 

Join us this Friday, February 29 at 7:30 PM, when as part of our Kabbalat Shabbat service, I will share an outline of our Reform movement’s approach to “holiness in time.”

Hope to see you then,

Rabbi Art Donsky

PS A Final Jeopardy question:  When will Shabbat next coincide with Friday, February 29th – in what year?

Thursday, February 21, 2008

Rabbi Art: This week in the Torah

Weekly Sedra – Ki Tissa – Exodus 30:11 – 34:35
"God said to Moses: 'Carve two tablets of stone like the first, and I will inscribe upon the tablets the words that were on the first tablets, which you shattered." - Exodus 34:1

“Resh Lakish said: There are times when nullifying the Torah may lead to establishing it. Thus when the Torah says, “which you shattered,” God means, “You did well to break the tablet.” (Talmud Bavli, Menahot 99a/b)

The ancient Israelites worshipped the Golden Calf while Moses was up the mountain receiving the “two tablets” according to our tradition. There is commotion down in the camp, which leads Moses to smash the tablets. Now Moses is told to “carve two tablets of stone like the first….” On the surface this seems to be a fairly straightforward episode according to the Biblical text and yet the editor of Babylonian Talmud, hundreds of years later, brings a powerful teaching, in the name Resh Lakish that instructs us, “nullifying the Torah may lead to establishing it” and Moses’ “breaking the tablets” was the right thing to do? How are we to understand that “breaking” the Torah is okay? What’s going on?

Let me share with you what I learned from my teachers years ago. Sometimes a community must be bold in its actions when an established Jewish law is in great conflict with the moral or ethical norms of the day.  Our reform movement acted in such a way when the decisions to admit women to the rabbinate and cantorate were made. The conservative movement, which considers itself, an halakhic (Jewish legal) tradition followed this dictum when it sanctioned its adherents driving on Shabbat to synagogue rather than not driving and not celebrating Shabbat within a synagogue community.

What about today? The two landmark decisions I listed above were made over 30 years ago. Do we face any potential monumental “breaks” now?  Join us this Shabbat morning as we will examine Resh Lakish’s shattering Talmudic declaration for our lives!

B’shalom,
Rabbi Art Donsky

TOS eWeekly Feb 21, 2008

Volume 2 Issue 23, February 20, 2008

Weekly Sedra – Ki Tissa – Exodus 30:11 – 34:35
“God said to Moses: ‘Carve two tablets of stone like the first, and I will inscribe upon the tablets the words that were on the first tablets, which you shattered.” - Exodus 34:1

“Resh Lakish said: There are times when nullifying the Torah may lead to establishing it. Thus when the Torah says, “which you shattered,” God means, “You did well to break the tablet.” (Talmud Bavli, Menahot 99a/b)

The ancient Israelites worshipped the Golden Calf while Moses was up the mountain receiving the “two tablets” according to our tradition. There is commotion down in the camp, which leads Moses to smash the tablets. Now Moses is told to “carve two tablets of stone like the first….” On the surface this seems to be a fairly straightforward episode according to the Biblical text and yet the editor of Babylonian Talmud, hundreds of years later, brings a powerful teaching, in the name Resh Lakish that instructs us, “nullifying the Torah may lead to establishing it” and Moses’ “breaking the tablets” was the right thing to do? How are we to understand that “breaking” the Torah is okay? What’s going on?

Let me share with you what I learned from my teachers years ago. Sometimes a community must be bold in its actions when an established Jewish law is in great conflict with the moral or ethical norms of the day.  Our reform movement acted in such a way when the decisions to admit women to the rabbinate and cantorate were made. The conservative movement, which considers itself, an halakhic (Jewish legal) tradition followed this dictum when it sanctioned its adherents driving on Shabbat to synagogue rather than not driving and not celebrating Shabbat within a synagogue community.

What about today? The two landmark decisions I listed above were made over 30 years ago. Do we face any potential monumental “breaks” now?  Join us this Shabbat morning as we will examine Resh Lakish’s shattering Talmudic declaration for our lives!

B’shalom,
Rabbi Art Donsky

“Is a Just Peace Possible in the Middle East between Israel and Palestine?”

What do you think?  Should there be a two-state solution? Is there a de facto two or three state reality today?  Should Israel allow Palestinians who either left on their own in 1948 or were forced to leave to return home inside the Green Line? What has the occupation done to both peoples? I love Israel. I love the Jewish People. I want peace to break out!!! These are just a few of the questions that I wrestle with quite regularly, especially when I open my browser to the Israeli newspaper “Haaretz” website!  (I encourage you to read the English versions of the major Israeli newspapers online if you want real news coverage of Israel and Middle East!)

If you want to do some wrestling about these concerns and other critical questions in person then please join us at the synagogue this coming Friday evening, February 22nd at 7:30 PM when Dr. Naftali Kaminski, joins us as our second guest Shabbat Speaker. Dr. Kaminski, an Israeli-American who works as both a physician and researcher at the University of Pittsburgh, is an ardent activist for peace and an active member of the Middle East Peace Forum of Pittsburgh. MEPFP is a group of Jews and Arabs and others who seek dialogue rather than conflict. If you care about Israel and the future of our Jewish state, you won’t want to miss Dr. Kaminski’s presentation.

B’shalom,
Rabbi Art Donsky

Board Of Directors Changes
Mike Rosenzweig has rejoined the board as Recording Secretary and Sarah Bass has joined as youth representative.

Preschool Happenings
The preschool will hold its annual Shabbat dinner on Feb. 29th.  The children have made beautiful Shabbat arts and crafts to share with their families.  They have also been practicing several songs, special for Shabbat, in both English and Hebrew.  We look forward to a wonderful celebration.

Oneg Hosts Needed
If you have been thinking about hosting an Oneg but haven’t signed up, please consider volunteering for one of the following dates:  March 21, March 28, April 11, April 18, May 16, or May 30th.  Please contact Joni Ferrara at (724) 933-3923 or by email at to sign-up.  Thanks for your help

A letter to Queen Esther!

Dear Queen Esther,
I am very excited about your upcoming ball.  It sounds like a lot of fun.  I don’t know what to wear?  Can you help me? -Your loyal Shushan subject

Dear Shushanian,
Queen Esther is sure you will look fabulous.  I do however have some tips.  If you are not feeling creative wear you favorite cocktail style dress or borrow one of your husband’s nice suits.  Since we are celebrating silliness better options maybe for you to wear an old bridesmaid dress.  The uglier the better!  If you don’t have any of theses try out a local resale shop.  The Queen herself found her gown for only $5.00.  And they are a blast to visit. Remember crossing dressing is allowed at the ball and encouraged.

Alliance of nonprofit stores:  There motto is to have donors bring gently used clothing instead of throwing them away.  Tons of goods are kept out of landfills.  The stores provide jobs and job training and volunteer opportunities.  Revenue is then returned to the community to provide human and social services that provide opportunities and transform lives. Here is a list of those stores.

Goodwill stores: many locations, Thrifttique, Swissvale ( run by National Council of Jewish Women)7400-1/2 Church Street 412-271-0544,Treasure House Fashions, Ross Twp 412-364-3256, Red, White and Blue 935 Ohio River Blvd, Avonworth 412-766-6098,Community Thrift Center 3255 Babcock Blvd Ross Twp. 412-366-4010.

For a cup of coffee Queen Esther herself would go on a thrift store hunt with any subjects.  Email Cheryl to make an appointment with the Queen. .

Fondly,
Queen Esther,

PURIM CARNIVAL HELP!
In preparation for this year’s Purim carnival, The Woman of Ohav Shalom and the Men’s Club are teaming up to refurbish and replace many of our Purim Games.  We are looking for patrons to provide financial support to purchase raw materials and supplies.  Families interested in supporting this effort are encouraged to make a financial donation.  Our craftsmen and craftswoman will be led by Chief carpenters, Jeff Flieder and Mike Daninhirsch.

If you are interested in making a donation please make checks payable to the WOS and send to Marcie Fassler at 517 Tree Line Drive, Gibsonia, PA, 15044.  Those interested in volunteering to assemble and decorate the games should contact Marcie at 724-625-7252 or via email at .

PURIM BALL BY WOS!
The Purim Ball is March 8th at 7pm.  $25 per person.
RSVP to Kathy Dougherty,1014 Karcher Drive, Allison Park, Pa 15101
Proceeds go to Life Long Learning, The Preschool at Temple Ohav Shalom, and the Temple Budget

LIFELONG LEARNING and YOUTH NEWS
The Lifelong Learning Committee needs more members!  All adults are welcome!  This important committee focuses on formal and informal Jewish education of our members, from Kindergarten through Adult, family education and informal youth activities.  Come be part of the planning, supervision and assessment of our Lifelong Learning activities.  For a little time commitment, you can make a great impact!  Please contact Deb Taylor or Lisa Weidman for more information. 

YOUTH EVENTS
Another fun Shabbat program!  Ohav Youth Israeli Maccabi POOL Party at the YMCA in Franklin Parkfor Grades 3-5, Saturday, March 1, from 4-6pm.  Cost:  $5.00 for admission, pizza, snacks and drinks.  For safety in the pool, we ask a parent to stay with their child.  Please pre-register with your cash payment and registration form in the envelope by the education wing door.  Questions:  please call Elinor Avigad at 724-934-4334 or Celia Maenza at 724-935-4464.

OY! Shalom Mitzvah Corps’ 3rd Annual DANCE FOR A CAUSE! is a community high school dance to raise awareness and funds for a super cause….This year’s theme, chosen by OY!, is children in foster care. 
When: Saturday, March 29
Time: 7 – 10:30

What do we need?  *Ohav teens to attend! Donations of new stuffed animals! And CHAPERONES! 
Please support our teens in their important Mitzvah event.  Contact Rebecca Mason at for more information or to volunteer.  (8th graders from TOS are most welcome!)

DONATE USED BICYCLES!
Clean out the garage for spring and do a good deed! Mark Ziegenfuss of Marshall Township contacted North Hills Community Outreach about sponsoring a Bike Shop for some of our families.  Mark is an avid biker and very interested in providing bikes to families in need. He has teamed up with Kraynick’s Bike Shop to refurbish donated bikes and make this happen.

The Bike Shop is now scheduled for Sunday, March 2 from 1:00 – 4:00 pm at the Millvale Community Center. This is another project that will involve our Youth Leadership Coordinators.

If you have any bikes to donate, or know anyone who would like to donate a bike for this program, donations may be dropped off on Saturday, February 23 from 9:00 – Noon, and on Sunday, February 24 from 2:00 – 5:00 pm at Marshall Elementary School, 5135 Wexford Run Road, Wexford, PA 15090. Because of transportation, refurbishing and storage requirements, all bike donations need to be taken to Marshall Elementary on these dates.  Bikes cannot be accepted at any NHCO location.

PARENTS SUPPORT GROUP
Our next meeting has been rescheduled to Sunday, March 2nd at 9:15AM due to construction delays. While most of us in the group have kids on the autism spectrum, it is open to parents of all kids with special needs. This month, Laura Marshak, author of Married (With Special Needs) Children will be there for our group discussion.  Please RSVP to if you are attending. Coffee and treats provided. Sponsored by ABOARD.

ISRAEL AT 60 SPEAKER
Canceled due to illness

TOS BLOOD DRIVE
will run concurrently with our Purim Festival on Sunday, March 16th starting at 8:30AM. Sign-up at the Temple or by contacting Peggy Jopling () If you want to be a Brighten Life donor, please see the attachment.

UPCOMING EVENTS
Sunday, February 24th: Mah Jongg 1:00-4:00PM Social Hall
Sunday, March 2nd: Parents of Special Needs Children Meeting-Multi-Purpose Room
Saturday, March 8th: WOS Purim Ball
Sunday March 16th: 8:30-Noon TOS Blood Drive
Sunday March 16th: Purim Carnival
Thursday, March 20th: 7:00PM Disney on Broadway Purim!
Saturday, March 22nd: 7:30 An Evening of Music with Tifani Katof
Saturday, March 29th: 7:00PM OY! Community Teen Dance For A Cause
Sunday, March 30th: 11:00AM-2:00PM Social Action Com.  Serve lunch at Miriam’s Women’s Shelter
Sunday, April 6th: 1:00PM Social Action-Riverview Towers
Thursday, May 1st: Yom HaShoah v’haGevurah-Day of Destruction & Heroism Holocaust Remembrance Day-Guest Speaker Sister Camille from Vicentian Academy

WORSHIP SCHEDULE

Friday, February 22 – Parashat Ki Tissa

7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat

“Thoughts about the possibility of a Just Peace in Israel/Palestine” – Kabbalat Shabbat services, Friday, February 22nd, 7:30 PM. We welcome Dr. Naftali Kaminski, is an Israeli-American physician and researcher at the University of Pittsburgh. He is an active member of the Middle East Peace Forum of Pittsburgh and an ardent supporter of a peaceful and just resolution to this conflict. 

Thursday, February 14, 2008

TOS eWeekly Feb 14, 2008

Volume 2 Issue 22, February 13, 2008

Parshat Tetzaveh – Exodus 27:20 – 30:10

The Torah reading begins with a command to get from the Jewish people a specially prepared olive oil, to be used for lighting the Menorah (a lamp with seven lights) in the Sanctuary. Aaron, the High Priest, and all of his descendants are to be responsible for lighting and keeping the lamp.

Here are some verses from our tradition that speak of light; its beauty and its power to inspire:

Why is the commandment a lamp? Because if one does a commandment, it is as if one kindled a light before God, as if one revived one’s own soul.” - Talmud

“Your word is lamp onto my feet, a light for my path.” - Psalms 119:105

“The light of a candle is serviceable only when it precedes a person. It is useless if it trails behind. A light for one is a light for a hundred.” - Shabbat 122a

“The lamp of God is the Torah, for the commandment is a lamp and the Teaching is a light.” - Proverbs 6:23

Need some light (warmth) in your life as we encounter more days of winter and cold? Join us this coming Shabbat for our uplifting and joyous Shabbat celebrations, Kabbalat Shabbat and Shabbat morning – guaranteed to kindle your spiritual spark!

B’shalom,
Rabbi Art Donsky

“Experience a New Jewish Revolution”
Friday, Feb. 15th at 7:30 PM- Join us for Kabbalat Shabbat Services when Rabbi Donsky will introduce and share excerpts of the new “The Torah: A Women’s Commentary.” Produced by the Women of Reform Judaism and the Union for Reform Judaism, this new humash, edited by Dr. Tamara Cohn Eskenazi and her former student Dr. Andrea L. Weiss, breaks new ground for its combination of scholarly and feminist understanding of our ancient sacred text.  Rabbi Donsky offered a brief look at the book last Shabbat morning with many positive comments and requests to offer a more expanded presentation on a Friday evening.

TOT SHABBAT IS TOMORROW!
Register on-line or to . Bring your side dishes—Pizza for all! Homer and Bart and 2 new guests you didn’t know were Jewish will be there!

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Well…….at the end of this week, the walls should be painted, the bathroom tiling is done, the electrical is almost finished , the HVAC is working, and the floors are about to be sanded and finished (including redoing the dance floor in the social hall). So the completion date is now…………..sooner than it was before!

RECYCLING
The 3rd grade is collecting used printer cartridges and cell phones to raise money for their class tzedaka project. You can drop you’re articles in the recycling bin in the hallway of the education center.

LIFE LONG LEARNING
The Ohav Youth K – 2 Israeli Maccabi Games & Party at the Baierl Center YMCA, in Franklin Park is this Sunday, February 17th from 3:00 pm – 5:00pm.
We’ll have organized sports and games in the Gym and Party Room.  $5.00 covers all the fun and snacks!  Register NOW by contacting Rebecca Mason @ .

Community Teen Shul-In at Temple Sinai, for 8 – 12th graders; Friday, Feb 15 – Saturday, Feb 16th.  Shabbat program, Pizza, Movies, hang out with other Pittsburgh teens.  Cost:  $5.00 plus kosher canned food to donate to Kosher Food Pantry.  Rsvp to Rebecca @ . 

The 6th Grade Chidon (Israel Quiz Fest) is coming up on March 2nd at the JCC.  All 6th graders will have attend the chidon (parents are certainly encouraged too!)

Our 6th grade team will compete against other 5th -6th grade religious school classes.  Extra practice sessions are Sunday, Feb 17, 11:30 – 12:30; every Tuesday 5:00 – 5:30 and Sunday, Feb 24th at Efrat’s in Squirrel Hill.  Questions, contact Deb Taylor.

PARENTS SUPPORT GROUP
Our next meeting has been rescheduled to Sunday, March 2nd at 9:15AM due to construction delays. While most of us in the group have kids on the autism spectrum, it is open to parents of all kids with special needs. This month, Laura Marshak, author of Married (With Special Needs) Children will be there for our group discussion.  Please RSVP to if you are attending. Coffee and treats provided. Sponsored by ABOARD.

SUMMER CAMP
Hard to think of summer camp when it is snowy and cold but be sure to see our page on “Think Summer”!

PURIM CARNIVAL HELP!
In preparation for this year’s Purim carnival, The Woman of Ohav Shalom and the Men’s Club are teaming up to refurbish and replace many of our Purim Games.  We are looking for patrons to provide financial support to purchase raw materials and supplies.  Families interested in supporting this effort are encouraged to make a financial donation.  Our craftsmen and craftswoman will be led by Chief carpenters, Jeff Flieder and Mike Danninhirsh.

If you are interested in making a donation please make checks payable to the WOS and send to Marcie Fassler at 517 Tree Line Drive, Gibsonia, PA, 15044.  Those interested in volunteering to assemble and decorate the games should contact Marcie at 724-625-7252 or via email at .

PURIM BALL BY WOS!
The Purim Ball is March 8th at 7pm.  $25 per person.
RSVP to Kathy Dougherty,1014 Karcher Drive, Allison Park, Pa 15101
Proceeds go to Life Long Learning, The Preschool at Temple Ohav Shalom, and the Temple Budget

ISRAEL AT 60 SPEAKER
Cancelled due to illness

TOS BLOOD DRIVE
will run concurrently with our Purim Festival on Sunday, March 16th starting at 8:30AM. Sign-up at the Temple or by contacting Peggy Jopling () If you want to be a Brighten Life donor, please see the attachment.

UPCOMING EVENTS
Tuesday, February 19th A Taste of Judaism 7:30PM Part III
Sunday, February 24th Mah Jongg 1:00-4:00PM Social Hall
Sunday, March 2nd Parents of Special Needs Children Meeting-Multi-Purpose Room
Saturday, March 8th WOS Purim Ball
Sunday March 16th 8:30-Noon TOS Blood Drive
Sunday March 16th Purim Carnival
Thursday, March 20th 7:00PM Disney on Broadway Purim!
Saturday, March 22nd 7:30 An Evening of Music with Tifani Katof
Saturday, March 29th 7:00PM OY! Community Teen Dance For A Cause
Sunday, March 30th 11:00AM-2:00PM Social Action Com.  Serve lunch at Miriam’s Women’s Shelter
Sunday, April 6th 1:00PM Social Action-Riverview Towers
Thursday, May 1st Yom HaShoah v’haGevurah-Day of Destruction & Heroism
Holocaust Remembrance Day-Guest Speaker Sister Camille from Vicentian Academy

WORSHIP SCHEDULE
Friday, February 15 – Parashat Tetzaveh
6:15 pm Tot Shabbat
7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof

Saturday, February 16 – 10 Adar 1, 5768
10 am Shabbat Morning Service
Bar Mitzvah of Martin Snow
Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof

Friday, February 22 – Parashat Ki Tissa
7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Bobbie Harley

“Thoughts about the possibility of a Just Peace in Israel/Palestine” – Kabbalat Shabbat services, Friday, February 22nd, 7:30 PM. We welcome Dr. Naftali Kaminski, is an Israeli-American physician and researcher at the University of Pittsburgh. He is an active member of the Middle East Peace Forum of Pittsburgh and an ardent supporter of a peaceful and just resolution to this conflict. 

Saturday, February 23 –17 Adar 1, 5768
10 am Shabbat Morning Service
Rabbi Donsky & Bill Lowenberger

Friday, February 29 – Parashat Vayakhel
7:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Elaine Rose

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

TOS eWeekly Feb 6, 2008

Volume 2 Issue 21, February 6, 2008

Weekly Torah Parashah Terumah – Exodus 25:1 – 27:19
“God said to Moses, ‘Tell the Israelite people to bring Me gifts; you shall accept these gifts for Me from every person whose heart so moves them.’” Exodus 25:1-2

Rabbi Isaac Meir Alter used to say, “‘For Me—for the glory of My Name!’ This means that you should not make an offering because you want your gifts to cause God’s Divine Presence to dwell in your midst, but only for the glory of God’s Name. There should be no other reason, no other motivation in your actions. You should bring these gifts and offerings only because God wants them.”

Human beings are in no position to “give” anything to God. Whatever a person brings, already belongs to God. Through the act of giving, using one’s possessions to perform a sacred act for the sake of God, a person comes to truly acquire those possessions. God gives us things to use. We come to “own” them only by using them to good ends. God gave us the earth as an outright gift. We may be the caretakers and custodians, but God owns it. We “own” the earth only by using it in God’s service.
Thus it was with the Sanctuary that God asked Moses to have the people build (see the verse from this parashah that is engraved above our Ark). Through the act of dedicating their possessions to God, they came to truly acquire the property as their own. If the relationship between Israel and God was going to be a true partnership, then it had to be a relationship based on love and trust, not on force or duress. The relationship between God and Israel is a matter of the heart. Perhaps that is why God told Moses that people should give according to the prompting of their heart. Perhaps that is why the first and last letters of the Torah spell the word “lev,” heart.

B’shalom,
Rabbi Art Donsky

“Experience a New Jewish Revolution”
Friday, Feb. 15th at 7:30 PM- Join us for Kabbalat Shabbat Services when Rabbi Donsky will introduce and share excerpts of the new “The Torah: A Women’s Commentary.” Produced by the Women of Reform Judaism and the Union for Reform Judaism, this new humash, edited by Dr. Tamara Cohn Eskenazi and her former student Dr. Andrea L. Weiss, breaks new ground for its combination of scholarly and feminist understanding of our ancient sacred text.  Rabbi Donsky offered a brief look at the book last Shabbat morning with many positive comments and requests to offer a more expanded presentation on a Friday evening.

CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
There are many personalized schedules for the capital campaign. Some of you have chosen to pay monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, etc. Now that we are computerized, you will get a “statement” according to your personal schedule, as opposed to a reminder letter. Remember: the system ages your pledge every month and we can’t change that. Ignore the aging columns!

RECYCLING
The 3rd grade is collecting used printer cartridges and cell phones to raise money for their class tzedaka project. You can drop you’re articles in the recycling bin in the hallway of the education center.

LIFELONG LEARNING NEWS
Our 4th and 5th Grade Classes will be having Shabbat Dinner together and lending their voices and ruach (spirit) to the Shabbat Service this Friday evening, February 1st.  Come, enjoy and let’s celebrate Shabbat together!  If you haven’t signed up, now’s the time!

The Madrikh teen movie-oneg program originally scheduled for Friday, February 1st has been moved back to Saturday, February 9th.  There will be a special teen movie and discussion with Rabbi Art at the Family Movie Program (see details below).  The next Madrikh class will be Sunday, March 2 from 5 – 7pm.

Our next B’nai Mitzvah Breakfast Workshop will be help Saturday February 9 at 9:30am. Please plan to stay and help lead morning Shabbat services, too!

LIFE LONG LEARNING
Shabbat Movies for ALL!  Join us this Saturday, February 9, from 3 – 5:45pm at Temple We’ll have 3 movies showing simultaneously in 3 rooms. Israeli Snacks prior to movies; havdalah led by our teens following.  Choose among these movies:

Prince of Egypt
Wondrous Oblivion* (for older kids and teens)
Only Human * (for adults)
*recently shown at the Pittsburgh Jewish-Israeli Film Festivals

Kindly pre-register by Friday, Feb 8th by emailing Deb Taylor at or Rebecca Mason at .  Cost; $3.00 per person; $10.00 maximum per family

Looking for Talented congregants!  For our KFC benefit (Kids for Carmiel).  The Shalom Mitzvah Corps of OY! is holding a talent show to benefit Karmiel Children’s Village, Sunday, April 6 from 10:15 – 11:30.  A few more performance slots are open.  Audition March 9 at 11:30am or March 11 at 5:00pm. 

Lifelong Learning and Youth News

B’nai Mitzvah Workshop, Saturday, February 9, 9:30am.

Israeli Maccabi Games and Party at the YMCA for Grades K, 1,2,
Sunday, February 17, 3:00 – 5:00pm; $5.00 (cash) and registration form due by Sunday, Feb 10. 

Israeli Maccabi Pool Games and Party at the YMCA for Grades 3-4-5
Saturday, March 1, 4:00 – 6:00pm; $5.00 (cash) and registration form due by Sunday, Feb 24

PARENTS SUPPORT GROUP
Our next meeting has been rescheduled to Sunday, March 2nd at 9:15AM due to construction delays. While most of us in the group have kids on the autism spectrum, it is open to parents of all kids with special needs. This month, Laura Marshak, author of Married (With Special Needs) Children will be there for our group discussion.  Please RSVP to if you are attending. Coffee and treats provided. Sponsored by ABOARD.

PURIM CARNIVAL HELP!
In preparation for this year’s Purim carnival, The Woman of Ohav Shalom and the Men’s Club are teaming up to refurbish and replace many of our Purim Games.  We are looking for patrons to provide financial support to purchase raw materials and supplies.  Families interested in supporting this effort are encouraged to make a financial donation.  Our craftsmen and craftswoman will be led by Chief carpenters, Jeff Flieder and Mike Danninhirsch.

If you are interested in making a donation please make checks payable to the WOS and send to Marcie Fassler at 517 Tree Line Drive, Gibsonia, PA, 15044.  Those interested in volunteering to assemble and decorate the games should contact Marcie at 724-625-7252 or via email at .

PURIM BALL BY WOS!
The Purim Ball is March 8th at 7pm.  $25 per person.
RSVP to Kathy Dougherty: 1014 Karcher Drive, Allison Park, Pa 15101
Proceeds go to Life Long Learning, The Preschool at Temple Ohav Shalom, and the Temple Budget

WOS PASSOVER 2nd SEDER CANCELLED
As in years past we have found that the attendance for the 2nd Seder on a weekend is usually low.  We are not having the event this year because of this reason.  We would like to ask people to open their homes to families who will be alone this year.

TOS BLOOD DRIVE
will run concurrently with our Purim Festival on Sunday, March 16th starting at 8:30AM. Sign-up at the Temple or by contacting Peggy Jopling ()

The 11th Annual Interfaith Gathering would like pictures of our various celebrations or persons from our tradition to be used in an audio-visual presentation at the event. Would members who have any photos please send them digitally to . Save the date of Sunday, April 13, 3-5PM at Ingomar United Methodist Church, W. Ingomar Road, to come to the Gathering. The theme this year is “Feasts, Fasts, and Festivals” Celebrating Our Diversity.  Call Clemmy at 412-486-0774 if you have any questions.

UPCOMING EVENTS
Saturday, February 9th Shabbat Family Movie Day 3:00-5:45PM
Tuesday, February 12th A Taste of Judaism 7:30PM Part II
Tuesday, February 19th A Taste of Judaism 7:30PM Part III
Sunday, February 24th Mah Jongg 1:00-4:00PM Social Hall
Sunday, March 2nd Parents of Special Needs Children Meeting-Multi-Purpose Room
Saturday, March 8th WOS Purim Ball
Sunday March 16th 8:30-Noon TOS Blood Drive
Sunday March 16th Purim Carnival
Thursday, March 20th 7:00PM Disney on Broadway Purim!
Saturday, March 22nd 7:30 An Evening of Music with Tifani Katof
Saturday, March 29th 7:00PM OY! Community Teen Dance For A Cause
Sunday, March 30th 11:00AM-2:00PM Social Action Com.  Serve lunch at Miriam’s Women’s Shelter
Sunday, April 6th 1:00PM Social Action-Riverview Towers
Thursday, May 1st Yom HaShoah v’haGevurah-Day of Destruction & Heroism
Holocaust Remembrance Day-Guest Speaker Sister Camille from Vicentian Academy

WORSHIP SCHEDULE

Friday, February 8 – Parashat Terumah
7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Marshal Auron

Saturday, February 9 – 3 Adar 1, 5768
10 am Shabbat Morning Service
Rabbi Donsky & Marshal Auron

Friday, February 15 – Parashat Tetzaveh

6:15 pm Tot Shabbat
7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof

Saturday, February 16 – 10 Adar 1, 5768
10 am Shabbat Morning Service
Bar Mitzvah of Martin Snow
Rabbi Donsky & Tifani Katof

Fiiday, February 22 – Parashat Ki Tissa

7:30 pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Bobbie Harley

“Thoughts about the possibility of a Just Peace in Israel/Palestine” – Kabbalat Shabbat services, Friday, February 22nd, 7:30 PM. We welcome Dr. Naftali Kaminski, is an Israeli-American physician and researcher at the University of Pittsburgh. He is an active member of the Middle East Peace Forum of Pittsburgh and an ardent supporter of a peaceful and just resolution to this conflict. 
Saturday, February 23 –17 Adar 1, 5768

10 am Shabbat Morning Service
Rabbi Donsky & Bill Lowenberger

Friday, February 29 – Parashat Vayakhel

7:30pm Kabbalat Shabbat
Rabbi Donsky & Elaine Rose

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Announcing URJ’s Summer Camping Programs!

It may be winter, but the Union for Reform Judaism is thinking summer. The URJ has a wide variety of programs to meet the discerning criteria of today’s youth. No longer is it limited to one-size-fits all! The URJ need your help in identifying those for whom these programs might be attractive and in getting the word to them.  Review the list of Summer 2008 programs here.