Energy Abounds!
Melanie Einbund
December services saw Rabbi Price get our attention as he raised a question ‘What is the role of the Rabbi?’ Speaking that a primary role is to be the Rabbi is a source of spiritual and pastoral guidance, a lens of Jewish tradition, and the importance of truth. Much to think about and reflect upon. Suffering a cold, Eliyanah Powers proved that as our Cantorial Soloist she is splendid. We welcomed Josh Nichols, our accompanist, from his return to London where his commissioned composition debuted.
Thank You
Santa Catalina Catholic Church has warmly welcomed us. Having a facility that allows us to observe and practice our traditions is a blessing. Our thanks and appreciation to Fr. Huy Vu and his congregation.
Dates to Remember
Shabbat Services at 7 p.m.: Feb. 21, March 21, April 25
Celebratory Event: Tu B’Shevat Seder—Feb. 13
Rabbi Price’s Classes:
Introduction to Torah Study—Feb. 18
Introduction to Jewish Ritual—March 18
‘I’m still wearing the smile you gave me’
Congratulations to Barb and Jack Rosenthal celebrating their 63rd Wedding Anniversary and to Ron and Arlene Solomon on their 65th Wedding Anniversary.
B’nai Midbar Updates
Melanie Einbund
The Chanukah Potluck Party on Dec. 28, 2024, was a lot of fun and full of mischief. Susan Kravitz outdid herself taking us on an informative history of Jewish melody and song. There were plenty of latkes (potato pancakes) and jelly munchkins (doughnuts)! The potluck included many other dishes. It was a very social and high-spirited evening! A big thanks to Judi Friedman and her committee for an event full of happiness.
Want to learn about Judaism? We have classes! The December class of ‘History of Zionism from the 19th Century to Today‘ piqued the interest of the 20–plus attendees. If you are interested, contact Esta Goldstein at [email protected]. You must be registered to attend.
Visiting the Jewish Museum housed in the first synagogue in Tucson. There are two new exhibits since we went last year. Learning about Tucson’s early Jewish history and beginnings was a revelation for a lot of us. If you would like to visit with us, contact Esta Goldstein at [email protected].
A Taste of Chant and Chocolate was held on Jan. 29. Chanting is a musical meditation and a way of calming and/or energizing a spiritual experience. Healing of mental, physical, and soulful reaching occurs as a phrase from the Torah, liturgy, or Song of Songs (Psalms) are set to melody.
The Congregation held its first event at SaddleBrooke Ranch in January. If you are a Ranch resident who is interested in B’nai Midbar, contact Joy Erickson at [email protected].
Our third Tu B’Shevat Seder will be held on Feb. 13. The planning meeting in January brought eight volunteers to prepare and assist. The seder celebrates the Birthday of the Trees. A peaceful harmonic gathering coupled with prayer and song. Contact Melanie Einbund at [email protected].
A Celebration of Onegs. We are truly fortunate that Our Oneg celebrations are filled through April 2025. To celebrate a special occasion, memory or as an honor please contact Judi Friedman at [email protected]. Reserve your spot from September 2025 through April 2026.
The Annual Meeting included updates from the board members on their areas of responsibility. Four members were elected to the board, Joy Erickson, Bonnie Lasky, Mike Koen, and Herb Cohen. Congratulations to all as they join the board to bring Jewish traditions, services, and events to our membership.
A step forward as we grow as a Congregation and look to the future is obtaining new prayer books. The prayer books are the Mishkan family of prayer books. They are the most modern and current Reform prayer book available today. A set is comprised of the Shabbat Prayer Book and the High Holy Day books. These prayer books will enable us to reach a greater understanding of our Jewish liturgy and allow more inclusive, evolving, and comforting religious services. To understand more about this campaign and contribute, please contact Jerry Lankin, at [email protected].
Congregation B’nai Midbar at SaddleBrooke is a Congregation that provides individuals of all backgrounds the opportunity to celebrate, practice, and learn from Jewish culture and religion in a welcoming and socially fulfilling environment. For information, contact Joy Erickson at [email protected].
Happy Valentine’s Day to you and your loved ones!