Greenwich Reform Synagogue Newsletter

 

 

  

April 9, 2014                    Nisan 9, 5774
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Online Payments

authorize.net GRS is pleased to offer our membership the option of making secure payments (via Authorize.net) of their membership dues, fees and school tuition. To begin CLICK HERE. 

 

Check back as we enhance this service in the coming weeks to include donations to more GRS funds.

GRS Office Location

GRS' OFFICES ARE NOW LOCATED AT

1037 E. PUTNAM AVE.,  RIVERSIDE, CT

 

PLEASE CHECK OUR  CALENDAR FOR DETAILS

 

SUNDAY RELIGIOUS SCHOOL AND ADULT ED CLASSES

WILL REMAIN AT

THE STANWICH ROAD LOCATION

 

HEBREW WILL BE TAUGHT AT OUR OFFICE LOCATION TUESDAY THROUGH THURSDAY AFTERNOONS 

 
In This Issue
Facebook
Online Payments
Office Location
Calendar
Torah Portion of the Week
Happy Birthday
Tree of Life
Caring Community
GRS Staff
Join Our List
A Very Special Evening
Rabbi's Message
Generation J
Jewish Yoga
Exploring the Torah
Sounds of the Shabbat blessings
Social Action
Holiday Happenings
Tzedakah
Shabbat Service Locations
Adult Ed
Around the Community

Calendar

calendar  

 

Wednesday, April 9

3:30 pm - Hebrew School at GRS office

 

Thursday, April 10

3:30 pm - Hebrew School at GRS office

 

Friday, April 11

6:30 pm - Just-before-Passover Family Shabbat Service at the home of Rabbi and Susan Sklarz

 

Sunday, April 13

NO RELIGIOUS SCHOOL

NO ADULT ED

 

Tuesday, April 15

NO HEBREW SCHOOL

 

Wednesday, April 16

NO HEBREW SCHOOL

 

Thursday, April 17

NO HEBREW SCHOOL

 

Friday, April 18

6:30 pm - Shabbat Service at GRS Office

 

Sunday, April 20

NO RELIGIOUS SCHOOL

NO ADULT ED

 

Tuesday, April 22

3:30 pm - Hebrew School @ GRS office

7:00 pm - Choir rehearsal

 

Wednesday, April 23

3:30 pm - Hebrew School @ GRS office

7:30 pm - Exec Bd. Mtg.

 

Thursday, April 24

3:30 pm - Hebrew School at GRS office

 

 

Friday, April 25

6:30 pm - Yom Hashoah Choir Service, St. Paul's Church

 

Sunday, April 27

9:00 am - breakfast

9:30 am - Religious School

9:45 am - Rabbi Sklarz's Advanced Hebrew Class

10:00 am - Torah Yoga 

10:30 am - Rabbi Rothman's Adult Ed Class

5:00 pm - Community Yom Hashoah Service at Temple Sholom

 

Tuesday, April 29

3:30 pm - Hebrew School at GRS office

 

Wednesday, April 30

3:30 pm - Hebrew School at GRS office

7:30 pm - Board Mtg. 

 

Torah Portion
April 12, 2014

Acharei-Mot

 (Leviticus 16:1-8:30)

 

In this portion, God provides the instructions surrounding the Yom Kippur sacrificial service.  Also included is the prohibition against consuming the blood of animals.  The portion concludes with the beginning of what is called the "Holiness code" - the guidebook to holy living.    


bday
Happy Birthday to...
Jessica Nirschel
Tara Stone
Frederick Brimberg
Ruth Newman
Henry Stone
Michael Baumgarten
Chase Goldstein
Janice Kaplan
Gail Tomberg

Tree of Life
(Etz Chaim)
Tree of Life
Celebrate the birth of a child, the Bar or Bat mitzvah ceremony of a loved one, the wedding or anniversary of a cherished friend or family member, a graduation or a retirement through a permanent dedication on the GRS Tree of Life!  CLICK HERE for more information and to place an order.
Caring Community News
Committee members provide assistance to temple members in times of need and to celebrate with them in times of joy. If you know of an ill or hospitalized member, please contact the office at (203) 629-0018.

You can help us to help each other. We encourage the participation of volunteers to keep in touch with our members through telephone calls, visits, by sending cards, etc...If you would like to be a part of this committee, please contact Laura Seltzer at laura@grs.org. 
GRS Staff

Rabbi Andrew R. Sklarz, MA, MSW, RJE

  rabbisklarz@grs.org 

 

Cantor Sabrina Lipton

sabrinalipton@grs.org  

 

Stephanie Glaser

Executive Director

stephanieglaser@grs.org

 

Eliana Hall 

Director of Education

eliana@grs.org

 

Clarita Agulay

Bookkeeper

clarita@grs.org

   

Laura Seltzer

Administrative Assistant

laura@grs.org    

 

Peter Babivskiy

Custodian


Join Our List
Join Our Mailing List

URJ NEW LOGO

Friday, April 11, 6:30 pm
A VERY SPECIAL EVENING
at the home of Rabbi & Susan Sklarz

Participate with our GRS family in our very first JUST BEFORE PASSOVER

FAMILY SERVICE & DINNER. 

This interactive, delicious and musical Shabbat will be a night of sheer enjoyment for the young at heart of every age. Our main course and special Pesach accoutrements will be provided by GRS.  Please CLICK HERE to make your reservation (RSVP is a must) and let us know if you will be bringing a favorite Passover appetizer, side dish, or dessert.

 

Those born in the month of April will receive a special blessing.  

 

Click here for the GRS Passover Cookbook.

Message from the Rabbi

 

Dear Friends,

 

There is nothing as fulfilling as a labor of love, and indeed as a rabbi, I am blessed to have this experience

time and time again. My greatest meaning comes from being with you, my congregational family during moments of both personal and collective joy as well as those moments when we confront a challenge together. 

 

As I reap great pleasure from the study of Torah, liturgy and rabbinic texts, I especially enjoy creating Shabbat and holiday services for our congregation.  During the past weeks, with an eye toward Pesach, I have had the delight of preparing our "Just Before Passover Family Service" siddur or prayerbook.  While the evening will include many elements of a traditional family service, such as a story for our children, I believe that through the narrative interspersed, points of discussion to be explored, and of course song, it will be an enjoyable, educational and meaningful time for all.  Creating this service was truly a labor of love.  Susan and I so hope that you will join with us for this festive Shabbat celebration at our home.

 

Wishing all a joyous Pesach,

 

Rabbi Andy

 

Rabbi Andy

 

Rabbi Andrew Sklarz, MSW, MA, RJE 

Generation J - Exploring Judaism Together

We had a fabulous time at Generation J last Sunday. First, we had a most enjoyable seder ever, complete with an Iron Chef Charoset Contest. The rabbi and I sampled our students' concoctions and was truly surprised at their creativity! After our seder, our students brought me a tall glass of grape juice to cleanse my very surprised palette, and we headed to the gym, where we had a special guest lead our whole school in a drum orchestra. It was lots of noise and lots of fun, and we sounded great together. We have the next two Sundays off for the celebration of Passover at home with our families, but we will be back together on April 27. See you then!

Jewish Yoga
Sunday, April 27, 10 - 11:15 am
at The Stanwich School, 257 Stanwich Rd.

Jewish Yoga comes to GRS

Sunday, 4/27, 10:15-11:30 a.m.

   

Discover how we can express and deepen our understanding of Jewish spirituality through the practice of yoga.  Certified yoga teachers Shari Balaish and Naomi Norman will lead us through an introductory class on Sunday, April 27.  In this class, we will explore the
middah (soul trait) of
zehirut (mindfulness).

 

The qualities of middot help us examine our lives and allow us the opportunity to grow and change. Studying
middot in a yoga class can deepen that learning - by literally embodying these qualities through breath work and asana practice. The specific middah of Zehirut, which can be translated as awareness or "shining inner light", is all about being more fully present in our lives.  Yoga is the perfect tool through which we can experience this.

 

So whether you're  a beginner or an experienced yogini, please join us! All are welcome! Bring a mat if you have one, otherwise we will provide one for you.

 

The class is free, donations are welcome and appreciated. 

 

Exploring the Torah
Thursday evenings at 7:00 PM
at the GRS Office

Please note there will be no class on April 10, April 17 or April 24. 

Whether you are brand new to Jewish text or have studied it from childhood, the Torah always has something powerful, compelling, and new to say to each one of us at every juncture of our lives.

 

Regardless of your background, journey with us into the "classic of classics," as we explore the teachings and traditions which have been passed down from Sinai to the present day.

 

As a rabbi and clinical social worker, Rabbi Andrew R. Sklarz, spiritual leader of GRS, brings a unique and engaging approach to text study.

 

No previous Jewish study experience required for this free program. Weekly walk-ins are always welcome!

 

Please contact Laura to register.

Enjoy the Sounds of the Shabbat
blessings and melodies on www.grs.org

Have you ever wanted to learn the Shabbat blessings and melodies, so that you can join us in the celebration of Shabbat?  It's as easy as clicking here to listen to Cantor Sabrina, accompanied by GRS pianist and choir director David Johnson, as recorded by congregant and videographer, Michael Chait.   

Be Part of GRS' New and Important Social Action Committee Initiative!

The caring members of our GRS Social Action Committee continually take on projects in order to help those in need, both within our larger community and around the globe.  For years GRS has been collecting and cooking food which the members of the Social Action Committee, and more recently, the students of Gen J, have been serving each month at Inspirica. However, our relationship has recently expanded...

 

GRS is now "in partnership with Inspirica." Inspirica provides a host of services for those who are, as the motto expresses, journeying from "homelessness to home."  Inspirica's beautiful, modern facility is located on nearby Franklin Street in Stamford, close to the Greenwich border. We are seeking volunteers, adults and mature teens, who can lend their skills in the following areas, including:

  • tutoring
  • babysitting
  • offering children's recreational activities
  • helping prepare those who endeavor to enter the job market
  • in other various realms, including resume writing and interview skills.
We warmly welcome those willing to share their unique ideas and talents in ways not aforementioned, to support those adults and children currently living at Inspirica.  Our GRS Social Action Committee invites you to be a part of this important mitzvah. Please let us know your interest by contacting Laura in the GRS office.
 
Items below can be utilized in each of the ongoing donation programs:
  • New twin bed sheet sets, twin blankets, bath towels, washcloths
  • Personal hygiene items for men, women and children-Full size shampoos, soaps, conditioners, razors and deodorant
  • Frangrance free liquid laundy detergent
  • Disposable diapers - all sizes (newborn to training pants)
  • Baby wipes
  • Non-Perishable food

Additionally, we are looking for volunteers to donate and serve food the first Saturday of each month to Inspirica's Women's Shelter. To find out what is needed, you can contact the GRS Office or sign up at Shabbat Services. Forms will be on the Oneg Shabbat table or on each chair.   

Holiday Happenings

Holiday Happenings is a monthly drop-off program for 3 and 4 year-olds on Sunday mornings from 9:30-11:30 am.

 

Children are immersed in a high energy learning environment, rich with the spirit of Judaism and community. Together, they will learn about their Jewish selves through song, dance, art, stories, fun, and friends!

 

Upcoming Dates:

May 4 - Israel Celebration

 

Participants need not be members of Greenwich Reform Synagogue to enroll:

 

Members-Free     Non-members-$50

 

For more information or to enroll, please contact Eliana Hall at eliana@grs.org.

Tzedakah

A contribution to GRS is a wonderful way to celebrate joyous events and commemorate meaningful occasions.  If you would like to make a contribution, please send your check to GRS, 1037 E. Putnam Ave., Riverside, CT  06878 or pay ONLINE.  For details on the giving opportunities available, please call the GRS office. 

 

2014 Shabbat Service Locations
All services begin at 6:30 pm unless otherwise noted
We want to thank you for your patience during this time of transition.  To make things more convenient, CLICK HERE for the location of our upcoming services.

However, as our calendar is always subject to last minute changes, it's always best to check the website or the newsletter.
Adult Ed - Winter 2014

Please note there will be no classes on April 13 or April 20 due to spring break. Class will resume on April 27. 
Those who would like to register for Advanced Beginner's Hebrew, (or interested in Beginner's Hebrew) with Rabbi Sklarz Sundays at 9:45am , please contact Laura at the GRS office.

Rabbi Robert Rothman, our Scholar in Residence, be leading a seminar on the Study of Jewish Contributions to Daughter Religions: Christianity and Islam.  In addition, throughout the year, we will also discuss current issues impacting on Judaism, the holidays, and other subjects of interest to the group.  
 
Rabbi Rothman, D.H.L., D.D., Ph.D., is the Rabbi Emeritus of Rye Community Synagogue.  He is widely published and has been our GRS Scholar in Residence for many years.  He is a retired Navy Chaplain with the rank of commander.  The Sunday Study Group meets during the second hour of Religious School throughout the year (10:30).  While we generally have a topic for the year, each class is designed to be a stand-alone session, so come to as many as you are able.   All are welcome.
Around the Community

Exciting News: Jewish Family Services of Greenwich is bringing its support group counseling program straight into your home via the Online Support Group Project (OSGP).  Whether in person or online, support groups help participants gain sustenance and strength, feel less lonely and isolated, reduce distress, and improve coping skills.  

 

Four different online support groups are being offered: bereavement, caregivers, new mothers, and for those who are chronically ill. JFS will provide confidential and secure video-conferencing services through its exclusive partnership with Vidyo, Inc.. As always, JFS support groups are facilitated by licensed, experienced social workers and confidentiality is strictly maintained. After an initial private assessment, participants will be given explicit instructions on how to enter the online support group. All one needs is access to the internet. 

 

Surviving and Succeeding as a Stepmother

Facilitated by Linda Schlapfer, LMFT

WHEN:   Six Wednesdays-beginning April 30

TIME:     12:15pm - 1:15pm

WHERE:  JFS of Greenwich, One Holly Hill Lane

FEE: $120 for the group, sliding scale fees available

Contact Tatiana for more information.

 

JFS of Greenwich Spring Soiree Annual Benefit

Sunday, May 4, 2014 from 5-8 PM

Tomes-Higgins House 

216 E. Putnam Avenue in Greenwich, CT 

Dinner, drinks and auction to benefit JFS of Greenwich

Click here for more information and to RSVP.

  

For more information about JFS, please visit the Support Group page on the new JFS website www.jfsgreenwich.org, or call 203-622-1881.   

 
The UJA of Greenwich will be holding its Community Yom Hashoah Commemoration on Sunday, April 27, 2014 at 5 PM at Temple Sholom. Holocaust survivor, Ed Lessing, will be present as the keynote speaker.  
   
The JCC of Greenwich has many exciting upcoming events for the months of January and February. To RSVP for any of these events, visit www.jccgreenwich.org or call 203-552-1818.    

Other events:
Babies and Bagels A New Program For Moms and Their Babies 
Date:Friday, April 26, 2013, 10:00am - 11:00am 
Location : Classic Kids Photography, 54 Greenwich Avenue

Meet moms and babies for a nosh one Friday a month. Chat informally and compare notes over bagels and schmear before hearing the latest from experts in pediatric medicine, dentistry, yoga, music and nutrition. Pre-school age siblings will be invited for playtime and activities to selected sessions which will be announced in advance. A touch of Jewish tradition will enrich your whole family.

April 26th

May 17

June 21st

July 19th

August TBD