Hineinu

Let's Support Each Other
Do You Need Help or Would You Like to Offer Help?

Thank you to those who have responded so far, whether to offer support or to share a need for it. Sincerely, these are each valuable offerings to this sacred work of being in community.
 
If you would benefit from the support of community members for things like grocery shopping, errands, or any other concrete needs, for any reason, please contact Susan Lazareck at susanlazareck@gmail.com or Rabbi Benjamin at benjamin.barnett@havurahshalom.org or 503-248-4662 ext. 3.

If you would like to be on a list of people to support others in concrete ways, such as grocery shopping or running other errands, please contact Susan and Rabbi Benjamin at the emails above.
 
If you are facing financial hardship from a loss of employment or decrease in income, or from any other impact of this crisis, please contact Rabbi Benjamin at the email or phone number above.

Keeping Quarantine
The best thing we can do for ourselves, our loved ones, and our community is to keep staying home and to keep a 6-foot distance if we have to go out. Every choice we make can be an act of compassion. The outbreak curve is doubling every few days.  All ages are vulnerable. If we stay in, the medical system will be able to keep up and lives will be saved.

____________________________
 

Upcoming Havurah Virtual Events
Dates, Times, and Zoom Rooms Listed Below

Although we are not publishing these links broadly, please feel free to invite your family and friends to any of our events below.

Shabbat Evening Home Rituals with Alicia Jo Rabins, Friday, 5:30 pm – Room Bet
Join Alicia Jo Rabins and her family for Shabbat blessings and singing. All ages welcome – geared for children ages 0-12 and their parents. 

Kirtan Shabbat with J.D. Kleinke, Friday, 7:30 pm – Room Aleph
Join us this Friday for a kirtan-infused Shabbat service. (“Kirtan” is Sanskrit for “repeat” — a simple, call-and-response form of devotional, communal singing that originated in Eastern religious traditions, and moved to the west with yoga and meditation.) A kirtan Shabbat follows the arc of the tradtional Friday night service, slowed down and simplified, to invoke the meditational spirit at the heart of all Jewish prayer.

Bar Mitzvah of Elliot Strom, Saturday, 10 am – Room Aleph
Please join us in welcoming Elliot Strom as a bar mitzvah and member of our community! See details here. You can click here to find Zoom Room Aleph once you sign in.

Havdallah: Shabbat School, Saturday (see below for times) – Room Gimel
4:30 pm - Shabbat School parents’ check-in
5 pm - All ages welcome. Havdallah with singing and stories.
 

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation, Tuesday, 12 pm – Room Bet
We gather to find some moments of quiet and shalom. Now twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays!

Morning Minyan, Wednesday, 8:30 am – Room Aleph
For all who want a regular prayer practice and for people saying Kaddish.

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation, Thursday, 5:30 pm – Room Bet
We gather to find some moments of quiet and shalom. Now twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays!

Jewish Bedtime Stories with Magid Cassandra Sagan, Thursday, 6:30 pm – Room Bet
A weekly (except April 2) session meant for children 4-10. Ready your drawing materials!

Dorot Shabbat, Friday, 6 pm – Room Aleph
Casual, family-friendly, musical service that begins with candle lighting and Kiddush, followed by prayer.

____________________________
 

Updates Inside Havurah
Making changes now that COVID-19 has affected our events

Can You Help Others with Technology?
Because of the major shift in Havurah activities, a lot of members are still wanting to participate in our programs, but have little to no experience with Zoom or our website. Please contact Brad, our Communications & Membership Coordinator, at brad@havurahshalom.org to be added to this new group devoted to helping members with technology!

Confused by Zoom? Look No Further!
Check out this Zoom guide and this upcoming Zoom training put on by Reconstructing Judaism on two different dates! Please use a computer or smartphone, since videoconferencing features for hosts are most accessible via these platforms. Zoom can be downloaded to your computer here. You can also download the app to your mobile device through the Apple App Store or Google Play (you need to click these links from your mobile device to install them to the device).

Making the Most of Zoom: A Tutorial
Monday March 30, 10 am PST: https://zoom.us/j/344999553
Thursday, April 2, 12:30 pm PST: https://zoom.us/j/280210450
 
If you have any questions about these online events or about Zoom, you can contact jweinberg@reconstructingjudaism.org.

Beware of Phishing Scams via Email
For some time now, people have been receiving phising emails where scammers obtain free Gmail accounts and impersonate Rabbi Benjamin. Another one of these scams is going around. You can tell it's fake by looking carefully at the email address from the sender.

Book Group Needs Recommendations
Book suggestions are still being accepted until April 15. We encourage people to submit more suggestions until then. After that, we will be compiling and sending the list out for voting in May. Please contact Marjorie Walters via the Havurah member directory on our website if you would like to recommend a book.

Bereavement Group Postponement
At the request of David Molko of JFCS and in light of the current health situation, we are postponing offering the next Bereavement Support Group until the fall. We hope to reconnect with folks then about this. We are also organizing our Bikkur Holim team to make phone calls to those who might feel alone or isolated. We will be reaching out to many of our members, since we all could use the connection, but if you would especially appreciate a call or the chance to spend time digitally visiting with someone, please contact Rabbi Benjamin at 503-248-4662 or benjamin.barnett@havurahshalom.org.

Havurah Happenings: Our Weekly Email
Due to the lack of events occuring in person, our weekly email will be suspended for now. We will be putting out Hineinu, this email, twice a week instead. We will update you if this changes in any way. If you have something you think should be included in Hineinu, please submit to the weekly email form here.

Hakol Goes Digital-Only for April
The April issue of Hakol, set to release the last week of March, will be digital-only. We will be posting a link to it in our email updates and it'll be on the website in its usual location here.

____________________________
 

Other Resources for You
From Our Siddur to a Havurah Website Guide

Digital Copy of Shabbat Vehagim
.
Digital Copy of the Daily Prayerbook
.
COVID-19 Resources Spreadsheet
.
Oregon Jewish Life COVID-19 Resources
.
A Spreadsheet of Livestreaming Services, Torah Study, and more
.
Community Resources During COVID-19
.
Daily Online Jewish Mindfulness Sit with Institute for Jewish Spirituality
.
Recon Connect: A Hub for Live Experiences from Reconstructing Judaism
.
Meditations, Blog Posts & Podcasts to Help Adults Coping with Uncertainty & Anxiety
.
This Can Be Our Finest Hour, But We Need All Of You (COVID-19 article)
.
How to Explain Coronavirus to a Child with Anxiety
.
A Guide to Havurah Website Resources (including how to access the member directory)
.
Ritualwell Coronavirus Articles (a website by Reconstructing Judaism)

Hineinu

Dear Hevre,

This week’s Torah portion, Vayakhel, begins: “Moshe convoked the whole Israelite community.” More literally, Moshe “communitied” the Israelites. Vayakhel is a verb form of community, one absent in English. (Notice the k-h-l sounds which appear in Havurah’s Kehillah, “Community,” cluster.) While our approach is more egalitarian (no one person “communities” the people), vayakhel as a verb illuminates how much the sacred work of community involves effort and cultivation.
 
These times are asking more of us. They are demanding that in order for us to remain connected and support one another, we must actively “community.” The truth, though, is that this is always the case. Healthy and inclusive community never simply happens, and is never static. It must always be tended and examined — is always alive and shifting. Perhaps this crisis is bringing these truths more into focus. And with the challenges of this come precious opportunities for us to community.
 
The other day I came upon this from Krista Tippett: “Human invention has connected us — our creativity & commerce, our vulnerability & flourishing. The civilizational challenge now — life by life, community by community — is to attend to the quality of that connection.” This is true on many levels. Foremost right now, in my mind, is our attending to the impacts of our physical connections. Being physically present for one another is a gift, and it is asking a lot of us to refrain from doing so. But friends, please, to the extent of our needs and abilities, we must. I hope by now that we all appreciate the necessity of this. Clearly, though, there are still many in our broader community who fail to recognize or honor how their personal choices impact the collective wellbeing. I feel morally compelled to state again how vital it is right now — for all of us with the freedom to make this choice — to refrain from in-person contact. This is not about panic or succumbing to fear. It is a matter of acting with wisdom and care for all of our loved ones and for all who dwell on earth. If you do not have the privilege to self-isolate, we honor your service and the sacrifices you are making, and would like to support you however possible.
 
Below, you can see the various ways in which we are continuing, in this moment, to community.
 

Bivrakha (With Blessing),
Rabbi Benjamin

____________________________
 

Let's Support Each Other
Do You Need Help or Would You Like to Offer Help?
 

Thank you to those who have responded so far, whether to offer support or to share a need for it. Sincerely, these are each valuable offerings to this sacred work of being in community.
 
If you would like to be on a list of people to support others in concrete ways, such as grocery shopping or running other errands, please contact Susan Lazareck and Rabbi Benjamin at benjamin.barnett@havurahshalom.org.
 
If you would benefit from the support of community members for things like grocery shopping, errands, or any other concrete needs, for any reason, please be in touch with Susan or Rabbi Benjamin at the emails above. You can also call Rabbi Benjamin at 503-248-4662 ext. 3.
 
We are organizing a team to make phone calls to those who feel isolated or would simply appreciate the connection. If you would like a call or the chance to spend time visiting remotely with someone, please contact Rabbi Benjamin at the email or phone number above.
 
If you are facing financial hardship from a loss of employment or decrease in income, or from any other impact of this crisis, please contact Rabbi Benjamin at the email or phone number above.

____________________________
 

Upcoming Virtual Events
Dates, Times, and Zoom Rooms Listed Below

Jewish Bedtime Stories with Cassandra Sagan, Thursday, 6:30 pm – Room Bet
A weekly session meant for children 4-10. Ready your drawing materials!

Bikkur Holim, Thursday, 7 pm – Room Aleph
In this workshop, we will explore how we can say Hineinu when visiting those who are ill (bikkur holim) or comforting mourners (nihum aveylim). We will learn how to cultivate a listening heart and to sit with each other in compassionate and caring ways.

Shabbat Evening Home Rituals with Alicia Jo Rabins, Friday, 5:30 pm – Room Bet
Join Alicia Jo Rabins and her family for Shabbat blessings and singing. All ages welcome – geared for children ages 0-12 and their parents. 

Kabbalat Shabbat Service with Rabbi Benjamin, Friday, 7:30 pm – Room Aleph
A short and sweet service with Rabbi Benjamin.

Immigrant Justice Kabbalat Shabbat, POSTPONED: TBA
This will be rescheduled for another date in the future.

HIAS Refugee Shabbat, Saturday, 10 am – Room Aleph
With the American Jewish community, we will dedicate this morning service to refugees and asylum seekers searching for freedom from violence and persecution.

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation, Tuesday, 12 pm – Room Bet
We gather to find some moments of quiet and shalom.

Book Discussion Group: People of the Book, Tuesday, 7 pm – Room Bet
This historical novel about the real Sarajevo Haggadah was inspired by a harrowing, true story of a beautifully illuminated Hebrew manuscript created in 14th century Spain.

Morning Minyan, Wednesday, 8:30 am – Room Aleph
For all who want a regular prayer practice and for people saying Kaddish.

____________________________
 

Updates Inside Havurah
Pivoting now that COVID-19 has affected our events

Havurah Happenings: Our Weekly Email
Due to the lack of events occuring in person, our weekly email will be suspended for now. We will be putting out Hineinu, this email, twice a week instead. We will update you if this changes in any way.

Hakol Goes Digital-Only for April
The April issue of Hakol, set to release the last week of March, will be digital-only. We will be posting a link to it in our email updates and it'll be on the website in its usual location here.

Book Group Needs Recommendations
Book suggestions are still being accepted until April 15. We encourage people to submit more suggestions until then. After that, we will be compiling and sending the list out for voting in May. Please contact Marjorie Walters via the Havurah member directory on our website if you would like to recommend a book.

Bereavement Group Postponement
At the request of David Molko of JFCS and in light of the current health situation, we are postponing offering the next Bereavement Support Group until the fall. We hope to reconnect with folks then about this.

We are also organizing our Bikkur Holim team to make phone calls to those who might feel alone or isolated. We will be reaching out to many of our members, since we all could use the connection, but if you would especially appreciate a call or the chance to spend time digitally visiting with someone, please contact Rabbi Benjamin at 503-248-4662 or benjamin.barnett@havurahshalom.org.

____________________________
 

Other Resources for You
From Meditations to a Havurah Website Guide
 

Daily Online Jewish Mindfulness Sit with Institute for Jewish Spirituality
Monday - Friday, 3:30 pm - 4 pm

Meditations, Blog Posts & Podcasts to Help Adults Coping with Uncertainty & Anxiety
 
This Can Be Our Finest Hour, But We Need All Of You (COVID-19 article)

How to Explain Coronavirus to a Child with Anxiety
 
A Guide to Havurah Website Resources (including how to access the member directory)

Ritualwell Coronavirus Articles (a website by Reconstructing Judaism)

Hineinu

Dear Friends,

Our staff and leadership at Havurah have been carefully discerning how to respond to this moment. In the face of the current state of the coronavirus outbreak, it is clear that we have arrived at needing to adjust how we are in community together.
 
We want to stress first and foremost that, amidst the adjustments we make, we will indeed still be together. This is a time in which we need community as much as ever. So while this moment calls for adaptation, we can and will find ways to remain connected and to support one another.
 
Hineinu. Here we are. This is the call we have been lifting up all year, and this is the intention we offer right now. Even as we need to shift the ways in which we connect, we are still very much here together. At the heart of our commitment right now is being there for each of us who is alone or isolated in any way. In the challenges we will face — medically, financially, spiritually, or otherwise — please know that the leadership and community support networks within Havurah are present and activated. We will be reaching out as best we can, and please do not hesitate to be in touch with any of us for any reason.
 
In a certain sense, the message for this moment is the same message we have been focused on for these last few years: Even amidst forces that might create distance between us, we must not allow ourselves to become distant from each other. And so rather than simply canceling gatherings, we will instead find new and creative ways to remain connected and perhaps even strengthen our connections. We need to find each other now, more than ever.
 
Let us draw strength from one another, and from the knowledge that we each are wading through feelings of uncertainty and fear. Those are normal and appropriate responses to the seriousness of this situation. So let us meet them with understanding and compassion. Remembering that we are not alone in this, let our hearts be shaped toward greater love and kindness — for ourselves, for one another, and for all those who feel vulnerable. These are our gifts, and they will escort us through this difficult time.
 
Of course, we want to protect the health of our families and friends. We also feel an obligation to act in a way that will help our community flatten the curve, to slow the rate of infection so that health services are not overwhelmed, so that the people who will become seriously ill will have access to the care they need. Each choice we make can be an act of care.
 

To keep everyone safe and prevent the spread of the virus, the following changes in how we gather will begin tomorrow. For now, they will remain in place until April 16, the end of Pesach, and we will evaluate as we go.

1. We will meet virtually via Zoom (a platform for virtual meeting rooms similar to FaceTime or Skype) for as much of our group activity as possible. If you haven't heard yet, Havurah now has the means to host these virtual meetings spaces on our website here. You must be signed in to access this page, and your room will be assigned to you.
 
2. We will not be sharing meals together. Rachel will be in touch with those who’ve RSVP’d for the Kabbalat Shabbat dinner tomorrow.

3. We will stream all services, beginning with tomorrow’s Kabbalat Shabbat service, which you can virtually join at 7:30 pm by signing in and clicking Room Aleph here. We will be sending you the links for Saturday community minyanim and Wednesday morning minyanim so you can join in then too. Leaders and leyners will broadcast from the sanctuary. The technology may be a little shaky at first, but we’ll do our best to refine and improve as we go.

4. Shabbat School will be meeting through Zoom beginning this Saturday until April 18.  Deborah will send a specific message with links to those families.
 
5. The Leadership Development Training scheduled for Sunday will be rescheduled. We’ll announce the new date as we learn more.
 
6. Havurah High will meet through Zoom for its last session. Deborah will send a specific message with links to those families.
 
7. Committees will meet through Zoom. Each meeting currently on the calendar will get a Zoom room assignment from Rachel. If you want to schedule an upcoming virtual meeting, be in touch with Rachel to receive a Zoom room.
 
8. We will let you know if and when office hours change, as staff is working from home as necessary. Right now, they will remain the same. If you need to come to the building, be sure to bring the alarm code with you.
 
Havurah has a crisis core team made up of Steering, members and staff, working together to continually monitor the situation and to make sure Havurahniks can stay connected during this challenging time.
 
We will be increasing our communications to you, to let you know about virtual programs, to remind you of how to get into virtual meetings and services, and to share new information as we learn it. Click here to access the website guide which has instructions on how to find the member directory and how to find our Zoom rooms. You must be signed in to see them here.
 
Let us — proverbially! — join hands and walk through this moment together. Even if it will largely be virtual, it will very much be real. May we each be protected from harm. And may we draw from the amazing wisdom and generosity that is within us as we say to one another: "Hineinu."

Sincerely,

Leadership & Staff of Havurah Shalom
 

Questions? Please contact us at 503-248-4662.

Reading by the Havurah Writing Group
New date TBA   DATE CHANGE
The Havurah Writing Group will be sharing short memoir pieces from their workshop followed by an oneg at a date to be announced.

Community Minyan
Saturday, March 7, 10 am - 12 pm
Our Community Minyan is a welcoming and spirited service that includes davening, Torah reading and discussion. Led by Rabbi Benjamin or community members. Lunch follows. Childcare is available.

Purim Celebration
Monday, March 9, 6 pm pizza and games; 6:30 pm Spieling and Megillah
Come one, come all, for a night of joy, masquerade, and the story of the courageous individuals from long ago whose valor saved the Jewish people. We will have pizza, Megillah chanting, spieling, and more. Be sure to visit the Alter Rocker’s adults-only table to fulfill the mitzvah of being unable to tell Mordechai and Haman apart. Wear a costume if you have one, or pick out something from Havurah's collection. Bring your famous hamantaschen to share. RSVP here.

Please sign up to be at the door during the Purim celebration! Shifts start at 5:45pm. Sign up here!

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation
Tuesday, March 10, 12 pm - 1 pm
We gather on Tuesdays to find some moments of quiet and shalom. Led by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner, Rabbi Benjamin, Adela Basayne, and Nancy Becker.

Morning Minyan
Wednesday, March 11, 8:30 am - 9 am
For all who want a regular prayer practice and for people saying Kaddish.

Kabbalat Shabbat
Friday, March 13, 6:30 pm dinner & 7:30 pm service
Our catered vegetarian Kabbalat Shabbat dinner begins at 6:30 pm, followed by a Kabbalat Shabbat service at 7:30 pm. This event happens with the help of many volunteers. RSVP here, and please sign up for a volunteer spot by clicking here if you're able to help.

Contemplative Shabbat Morning Service
Saturday, March 14, 10 am - 12 pm 
Interspersing chanting and silence, we will move through the flow of Shabbat morning slowly and intentionally, aiming to open our hearts and deepen our awareness. No experience necessary. Contact Rabbi Benjamin with questions.

Leadership Development Training
Sunday, March 15, 2 pm - 4:30 pm
Havurah’s Leadership Development Committee and MACG (Metropolitan Alliance for the Common Good) are teaming up to present a series of three workshops for Havurah leaders and members. Who should attend? Committee chairs, committee members, and any members interested in learning more about leadership at Havurah! Register here.

Returning to Israel After 26 Years: Deborah Eisenbach-Budner Shares Impressions & Questions (evening time, by popular demand)
Wednesday, March 18, 5:45 pm
Deborah will share impressions and questions from her recent return to Israel/Palestine and her encounters with: religious relatives living on the West Bank, a few of today's Jewish and Palestinian peace activists, 'regular' Israelis trying to live their lives, Druze community members, and amazing and disturbing changes in Israel in the last 26 years. She also learned far more than planned about the current health care systems in Palestine and in Israel due to a freak accident (everybody is okay now). Please RSVP here.

National Refugee Shabbat
Friday, March 20 at 7:30 pm & Saturday, March 21 at 10 am
Havurah will join congregations nationwide in dedicating our March 20-21 Shabbat services to honoring immigrants and refugees. The Havurah Sanctuary Committee & Rabbinic Chaplain Tivona Reith invite you to a special Friday night service March 20 at 7:30 pm. The hour long service will be filled with music and reflection, followed by an Oneg. On Saturday morning, March 21, beginning at 10 am, Rabbi Benjamin and the Havurah Sanctuary Committee will continue to weave in sacred time and space to honor refugees and asylum seekers during our community minyan.

Kesher Tech: Exploring Our Website
Friday, March 6, 10 am - 12 pm
Havurah's Communications & Membership Coordinator, Brad Pector, will guide you through the  Havurah website. We will look at member features and how they can help you and your committee or cluster. Please bring your computer or tablet. Limited to 12 people. RSVP here.

Hineinu: Being Present for Each Other in Times of Struggle and Loss
A Workshop & Training to Establish a Bikkur Ḥolim Cohort at Havurah
Thursday, March 5, 12, 19, 7 pm - 8:30 pm
Facilitated by Rabbi Benjamin and Rabbinic Chaplain Tivona Reith.
In this workshop, we will learn how to sit with each other in compassionate and caring ways, such as visiting those who are ill (bikkur ḥolim) or comforting mourners (niḥum aveylim). RSVP here.

2000 Years of Jewish Understandings of Slavery and Freedom

Preparing Ourselves for Passover    
Wednesday, March 11, 18, 25, 7 pm - 8:30 pm   (tonight's class cancelled)
We will explore the evolution of the themes of slavery and freedom from the Torah narratives and in the haggadah, as well as the development of the Passover seder by the rabbis. One focus will be on the liberation of gender, a hallmark of the last 40 years of some creative Jewish seders. Taught by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner. RSVP here.

Do You Have a Skill to Share? Lifelong Learning Seeks Teachers
The Lifelong Learning Committee is currently seeking congregants to teach classes in the 2020-2021 school year. We have three focus areas: history or culture; spirituality or religion; and creative, hands-on learning. If you have an idea for a class, please email Eve Berry.

What Would You Like to Learn?
We’re also seeking feedback about types of classes to offer within our three focus areas. Is there a particular topic or skill you’d like to learn about? Please tell us!

Interfaith Alliance on Poverty Monthly Meeting
Thursday, March 5, 12 pm - 2 pm, Westminster Presbyterian Church
Faith perspectives on the budget as a moral document, hearing from Catholic, Protestant and Jewish traditions to speak to what their traditions say about their role in assuring our government’s budget reflects the moral imperative to assure economic and social justice.

Community Conversation On Homelessness
Saturday, March 7, 9 am - 12 pm at Multnomah Arts Center Gymnasium
To continue the discussion at the Portland Downtown Neighborhood Association’s Educational Forum on Homelessness, Mayor Wheeler is hosting several more community conversations across Portland to share how the City is addressing homelessness and to listen to your priorities and ideas tied to the issue. Contact Gloria Halper (in the online Havurah directory) for more information.

Celebrate LIFT Urban Portland's New Food Pantry
Monday, March 9, 4 pm - 6 pm
First United Methodist Church, 1838 SW Jefferson St.
Come take a tour, have a snack, and hear special guest Dr. Miles Hassell, author of Good Food, Great Medicine. Lift UP hopes to raise $20,000 to ensure that the pantry best serves our community. Details and RSVP here, or call (503) 221-1224.

IMIrJ Spring 2020 Cohort on Countering White Nationalism
Havurah's Sanctuary Committee has an ongoing partnership with the Interfaith Movement for Immigrant Justice (IMIrJ), and we have the opportunity to organize a cohort of up to five people to join with other IMIrJ congregations to learn about white nationalism and explore how countering this growing movement is inextricably linked to advancing immigrant justice. If you are interested in this opportunity please review this document. If you are interested, or if you have questions, contact Shari Raider or Bob Brown.

Metro Tax Proposal
Recently Metro voted to refer a ballot measure to voters on May 19 to raise money for homeless supportive services through two annual taxes. Services will include case management, rent assistance, addiction and recovery, mental health care and employment support. Measures have broad support from the Portland Mayor to the Portland Business Alliance. Voters will have an option to renew the taxes after 10 years. Link to OPB article here.

Tutoring Is Fun & Rewarding: Join Tikkun Olam Adelante!
Wednesdays, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Join the Havurah Tikkun Olam tutoring project at Ortiz Center (6736 NE Killingsworth)! We have a wonderful, dedicated group of tutors and motivated students from neighborhood primary and middle schools. We generally work one tutor/one student - on reading and math skills. Please contact Margie Rosenthal or Jay Moskovitz for more information or to arrange a visit to our program.

Creating a Havurah Liberation of Gender Seder
Do you want to gather with a small group of folks two to three times to do some study, singing, writing, drawing, thinking about ritual, making creative new ritual foods, and more?! All genders and all ages welcome to contribute. We will find a few meeting times in the next few months. Contact Deborah Eisenbach-Budner as soon as possible to be part of this creative process. The seder will be Sunday, April 12 at 3 pm.

Bereavement Group
Sunday, April 26; May 3, 17, 24, 31; June 7, 10 am - 11:30 am at Havurah
Havurah will be offering a Bereavement Support group this spring so Havuraniks can come together to support each other with one another's grief, facilitated by David Molko, LCSW, of Jewish Family & Child Services. This will be a closed group so people can create a sense of community and comfort with this process. Please register here to indicate your interest. David will follow up with a brief phone conversation to provide additional details and discuss group member needs.

Nominations for 2020 Steering Positions
Havurah's Nominating Committee has started work to fill positions for the 2020 - 2021 Steering Committee. We will be submitting nominations for the following positions in the spring:

Vice-President (four-year commitment)
Treasurer
Tikkun Olam (Social Action) Lead
Makom (Place) Lead
Limud (Learning) Lead

We are looking for motivated Havurah members who want to be involved in a hands-on manner with our governance and planning. With the exception of Vice-President, new members will serve from July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2022. If you have questions about Steering positions, please contact Debbi Nadell.

It is our intention at Havurah that what you know and understand about our congregation should not be a function of who you know. If you find yourself wondering about something related to Havurah, we hope you contact us. Send your questions to transparency@havurahshalom.org.

Please use this form to submit stories for this weekly community email. Submissions are due by noon on Tuesday each week.

Havurah Shalom is a vibrant, diverse, participatory Jewish community steeped in Jewish values promoting spirituality, learning, and acts of social responsibility.

Find our calendar and learn more at havurahshalom.org, or call 503-248-4662.

Community Minyan
Saturday, Feb. 22, 10 am - 12 pm
Our Community Minyan is a welcoming and spirited service that includes davening, Torah reading and discussion. Led by Rabbi Benjamin or community members. Lunch follows. Childcare is available.

Purim Leadership Needed!
Sunday, Feb. 23 & March 1, 10 am - 12 pm
Calling all actors, musicians, chanters, spielers, and planners! Don't miss being a part of this year's celebration. Join the fun as we perform a few short skits to add to the joy of Purim. Dress up, become a king, queen, bad guy, or part of the crowd. We'll meet for a first rehearsal and brainstorming session on Sunday, Feb. 23, 10 am - 12 pm, with just one more rehearsal on Sunday, March 1, 10 am - 12 pm. All ages, past performers, levels of experience welcome. Purim celebration is on Monday, March 9. Contact Ellen Regal (see online Havurah directory) to sign up! In addition to spielers, we need megillah chanters. Please email Rabbi Benjamin if you're interested. Short readings with recordings happily provided.

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation
Tuesday, Feb. 25, 12 pm - 1 pm
We gather on Tuesdays to find some moments of quiet and shalom. Led by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner, Rabbi Benjamin, Adela Basayne, and Nancy Becker.

Book Group Discusses Kickdown by Rebecca Clarren
Tuesday, Feb. 25, 7 pm - 8:30 pm
Kickdown, the book for February’s meeting, will be attended and led by its author (and Havurah member), Rebecca Clarren! This opens up an unusual opportunity to dialogue directly with an author, something that we have not previously done. Don’t miss this! The novel is a gritty tale about rural America. Kickdown was shortlisted for the PEN/Bellweather Prize. Discussion led by Rebecca Clarren & Marjorie Walters.

Morning Minyan
Wednesday, Feb. 26, 8:30 am - 9 am
For all who want a regular prayer practice and for people saying Kaddish.

Family Shabbat
Saturday, Feb. 29, 10:30 am - 12 pm
Please join us for a fabulous morning of singing, storytelling, interactive Torah, community connections, and noshing. Especially for families with youth in Grades K–6 or those who want a boost of youthful energy. There will be time for parent-child engagement. Led by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner, Rabbi Benjamin, and community members. Followed by potluck lunch. Please RSVP here by February 20 so we can plan accordingly.

Photo by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner.

Thinking About Israel/Palestine
Tuesday, March 3 - May 12 (except March 24), 7 pm - 8:30 pm
Joel Beinin will once again be teaching a course on Israel/Palestine. The objective of the class is to stimulate discussion at Havurah Shalom. All points of view are welcome and will be respected. The class is limited to 20 people. There are about 50 pages of weekly reading, and participants should be willing to commit to attending at least 8 of the 10 sessions. To register, click this link.

2000 Years of Jewish Understandings of Slavery and Freedom

Preparing for Ourselves Passover    
Wednesday, Mar. 4, 11, 18, 25, 7 pm - 8:30 pm   NEW DATES
Israel’s yetziat mitzrayim (exodus from Egypt/the narrow space) is a cornerstone of Judaism and the foundation for our celebration of Pesach (Passover). One of the four names for Pesach is Hag ha-Herut (The Feast of Freedom). Jews in different historical contexts have understood mitzrayim (the narrow space) differently and therefore freedom has looked different in different generations. We will explore the evolution of these themes from the Torah narratives into the self-conscious construction of the Passover seder by the rabbis. We will look at visual and liturgical representations of slavery and freedom in haggadot (the book we use at the seder) from the last 600 years. One focus will be on the liberation of gender, which has been a hallmark of the last 40 years of some creative Jewish seders. Taught by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner. Please RSVP by Feb. 28 by clicking here.

Hineinu: Being Present for Each Other in Times of Struggle and Loss
A Workshop & Training to Establish a Bikkur Ḥolim Cohort at Havurah
Thursday, March 5, 12, 19, 7 pm - 8:30 pm
Facilitated by Rabbi Benjamin and Rabbinic Chaplain Tivona Reith.
Havurah Shalom’s theme this year of Hineinu: Here We Are takes many forms. In this workshop, we will explore how we can say Hineinu when visiting those who are ill (bikkur ḥolim) or comforting mourners (niḥum aveylim). We will learn how to sit with each other in compassionate and caring ways. The workshop will include study of Torah and other Jewish texts, chanting and meditation, reflection and discussion, and more. This series is a first step in creating a Bikkur Ḥolim (Visiting the Sick) cohort within Havurah, and will be designed as a training for those interested in helping us support each other in this way. Everyone is welcome to participate in the workshop, though, regardless of future commitment. Please RSVP here by Feb. 20.

Kesher Tech: Explore Our Website
Friday, March 6, 10 am - 12 pm
In these new workshops, Havurah's Communications & Membership Coordinator, Brad Pector, will guide you through the latest technology. We will focus on one topic per session. This session's focus is the Havurah website. We will look at all of the features it has for members, and spend time getting to know how these features can help you and your committee or cluster. Please bring your computer or tablet. Limited to 12 people. RSVP by March 1. Click here to register. You can also click the Havurah logo above to get a head start!

Day of Remembrance, Day of Action at the NW Detention Center
Sunday, Feb. 23, 9 am - 5 pm
Our partners at IMIrJ are organizing a joint caravan up to Tacoma to participate in this Day of Remembrance, Day of Action. Click here for the event link. This event commemorates the 78th anniversary of the Executive Order that incarcerated 126,000 citizens and immigrants of Japanese descent during WWII. Today, thousands of immigrants and refugees are confined and subjected to inhumane conditions, family separations, threats of deportation, and countless indignities. Carpools will leave at 9am from the parking lot of Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School at 4906 NE 6th Ave. Questions? Contact Shari Raider.

IMIrJ ICE Vigil: Last Thursday Witness
Thursday, Feb. 27, 10 am, Portland ICE Headquarters, 4310 SW Macadam Ave.
Gather in vigil as we express our support and love for families affected by ICE detentions. Join this monthly gathering to lift up the reality of what happens every day at the Portland ICE facility and participate in solidarity in various interfaith expressions and rituals. Carpooling is encouraged as parking is limited.

Tutoring Is Fun & Rewarding: Join Tikkun Olam Adelante!
Wednesdays, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
The Havurah Tikkun Olam tutoring project at Ortiz Center (6736 NE Killingsworth) is in our third and most satisfying year. We have a wonderful, dedicated group of tutors and motivated students from neighborhood schools. The students are from primary and middle schools. We generally work one tutor/one student - on reading and math skills. Some homework is in Spanish (from immersion programs), so any Spanish ability is helpful. Tutors work at the subjects and levels that suits them, having each other as resources. We encourage consistency and a relationship between tutor and student, but student attendance is sometimes irregular. Please contact Margie Rosenthal or Jay Moskovitz for more information or to arrange a visit to our program.

Community Conversation On Homelessness
Tuesday, March 3, 6:30pm – 8:30pm at U. of Portland Bauccio Commons
Saturday, March 7, 9am – 12pm at Multnomah Arts Center Gymnasium
To continue the discussion at the Portland Downtown Neighborhood Association’s Educational Forum on Homelessness, Mayor Wheeler is hosting several more community conversations across Portland to share how the City is addressing homelessness and to listen to your priorities and ideas tied to the issue. Space is limited and attendance is based on first-come, first-serve. Contact Gloria Halper (in the online Havurah directory) for more information.

Food Delivery: Help Needed
March 4, April 1, May 6
We’re looking for a few more volunteers to deliver food boxes to The Vibrant! Apartments. Pick one date, two, or three! Deliveries take about an hour, starting at 11:15 am, at 1620 NW 14th Ave (the cross street is Raleigh). Please contact Ruth Feldman via the online Havurah directory. Thanks to Susan Danielson, Joan Carples, and Adele Thompson for making the February deliveries!

Interfaith Alliance on Poverty Monthly Meeting
Thursday, March 5, Westminster Presbyterian Church
Faith perspectives on the budget as a moral document, hearing from Catholic, Protestant and Jewish traditions to speak to what their traditions say about their role in assuring our government’s budget reflects the moral imperative to assure economic and social justice.

Shabbat School History Now Up On Our Website!
Click here to see the new History of Shabbat School page.

Large-Print Shabbat Siddur
A large-print copy of our Shabbat siddur is now on the Sanctuary shelves.

Do You Have a Skill to Share? Lifelong Learning Seeks Teachers
The Lifelong Learning Committee is currently seeking congregants to teach classes in the 2020-2021 school year. We have three focus areas: history or culture; spirituality or religion; and creative, hands-on learning.

Classes can be offered in a variety of formats and last from 1-6 sessions. If you have an idea for a class, please email Eve Berry (check the online member directory for her email), and plan to attend an LLC meeting in April or May to present your idea to the committee.

What Would You Like to Learn?
We’re also seeking feedback about types of classes to offer within our three focus areas. Is there a particular topic or skill you’d like to learn about? Please tell us about it!

Bereavement Group
Sunday, April 26; May 3, 17, 24, 31; June 7, 10 am - 11:30 am at Havurah
Havurah will be offering a Bereavement Support group this Spring so Havuraniks can come together to support each other with one another's grief. There was thoughtful consideration given to how this group should be run by the Pastoral Care and Ma'avar Committees. It was decided that this would best be run by an outside mental health provider. The committees have asked David Molko, LCSW, from Jewish Family & Child Service (JFCS), to facilitate this group. This will be a closed group so people can create a sense of community and comfort with this process. Please register here to indicate your interest. David will follow up with a brief phone conversation to provide additional details and discuss group member needs.

Contemplative Retreats with Rabbi Benjamin and Other Leaders
July 21-26 & August 17-23
Rabbi Benjamin will be teaching on two contemplative retreats in Oregon this summer, and it would be wonderful to have many Havurahniks participate. July 21-26 he will be teaching in Ashland with Rabbis Yael Levy and Joshua Boettiger, and August 17-23, right outside of Portland with Rabbi Shefa Gold. These are each inspiring and generous teachers, and both retreats will be powerful opportunities for growth and connection. See description of July retreat here (pricing TBD soon) and August retreat here. No prior experience required. Scholarships available. Contact Rabbi Benjamin at benjamin.barnett@havurahshalom.org with any questions.

Machzor Choice Revealed!
The people have spoken! A clear majority favored Kol HaNeshemah, Machzor L'yamim Noraim published by The Reconstructionist Press. In the link here, you can see some colorful pie charts and graphs along with explanations which display the results of 93 survey respondents. Thank you very much to Cindy Merrill and Sarah Wetherson for compiling, analyzing and displaying the data in such an easy to read format. Soon we'll be able to announce the next phase of the process - ordering and purchasing the books in time for this year's High Holy Days. For questions or concerns, please contact Susan Brenner, Sacha Reich, Cindy Merrill, or Sarah Wetherson from the Machzor Task Force.

Our Nametags Are Here!
The name tags are ready for Havurah members over the age of 13! Here's how to enjoy them.

1. Find your name tag in the alphabetized boxes (by last name) in the coat room.
2. Grab a magnetic back and wear your name tag at Havurah. Or, use a lanyard if you prefer to hang your name tag around your neck (available in the back hallway).
3. Return your name tag to the back hallway, by the bathrooms, under the letter of your last name. You can place the magnetic back on top of the name tag, underneath your name, to secure it.
4. If you cannot find your name tag, or if you would like a name tag for an adult child, please fill out a name tag request form here.

Wear a nametag when you are here - Hinenu!

Nominations for 2020 Steering Positions
Havurah's Nominating Committee has started work to fill positions for the 2020 - 2021 Steering Committee. We will be submitting nominations for the following positions in the spring:

• Vice-President (four-year commitment)
• Treasurer
• Tikkun Olam (Social Action) Lead
• Makom (Place) Lead
• Limud (Learning) Lead

We are looking for motivated Havurah members who want to be involved in a hands-on manner with our governance and planning. With the exception of Vice-President, new members will serve from July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2022. If you have questions about Steering positions, please contact Debbi Nadell.

Confused About What Our Website Has To Offer?
This website guide should be able to help! Click here to access this how-to resource guide.

Havurah's Rosh Chodesh Group Has Two Openings!
Did you know Havurah Shalom has a women's Rosh Chodesh group? We meet each month to celebrate the new moon through study and thoughtful conversations about Jewish practice, rituals, and history. We keep our membership small to encourage community building within Havurah. Currently, we have two openings available to welcome new members. You do not need any prior experience or Jewish knowledge to join, just an open mind and an interest in deepening your Havurah communal connections. All Havurah women and teens over bat mitzvah age are welcome. For more information, contact Liz Schwartz.

The Mainstreaming of Antisemitism in America Today
Sunday, Feb. 23, 1 pm - 3 pm at Neveh Shalom, preceeded by a luncheon for Portland-area Jewish educators: put on by PAJE at 12:15 pm
This is the third workshop from the Federation's Antisemitism series for Portland Area educators. Register here.

Story Swap at the Museum: Identity
February 26, 7 pm
Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education, 724 NW Davis
An evening of personal stories on the theme of Identity hosted by Havurah member and Maggid-Educator Cassandra Sagan. Featured tellers include our own Rebecca Clarren, award-winning reporter and novelist, Dylan Burdette, a non-binary writer, musician, and student, and Tracy Schlapp and Danyy Wilson who lead music and storytelling experience in prisons. Open mic following the featured tellers, come share your own five-minute story! Purchase tickets here.

God of Vengeance
ACT 1
February 29, 7 pm - 9 pm, Congregation Beth Israel, Pollin Chapel
1972 NW Flanders Street, Portland

ACT 2
March 1, 7 pm - 9 pm
Q Center, 4115 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97217

Led and curated by Emily Simon. Co-produced with Profile Theatre. Sponsored by Congregation Beth Israel and the Q Center.

The first Queer kiss on Broadway was In 1923, in Sholem Asch’s play God of Vengeance. Not only did it ignite passion between the two women who shared that kiss, but the play ignited passions within the American Jewish community, and ultimately the New York State Judiciary. God of Vengeance was branded as indecent, and after opening night, never graced a Broadway Stage again. This story is brought to light in Paula Vogel’s play Indecent, which uses God of Vengeance as the fabric upon which to weave a story that encompasses the intersectionality of homophobia and anti-Semitism.

Indecent
March 5
If you haven't seen Indecent already, or want to see it again locally, you have another chance. Purchase your own ticket here.

United In Spirit Events
Southern Rites
Open until May 24
An exhibition at Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education:
American photographer Gillian Laub examines the realities of racism in America.
 
Film: Rosenwald
March 18 at 7pm OJMCHE
A documentary about how philanthropist Julius Rosenwald, son of an immigrant peddler who founded Sears, partnered with Booker T. Washington to build schools in African-American communities in the early 1900s.
 
For more information contact:
bob@jewishportland.org or secretary@pdxnaacp.org.

Safety Training: Stop the Bleed
Stop the Bleed is intended to cultivate grassroots efforts that encourage bystanders to become trained, equipped, and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives.

Feb. 27 at 8:30 am - 10:30 am and 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Chabad of NE Portland, 2858 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland

RSVP to Julie Alferez at julie@jewishportland.org.

The Sephardic Winter Film Series Returns!
March 2 at 7 pm, 6686 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland
Sponsored by Ahavath Achim, the series will feature a film monthly on Tuesday evenings from December to March. Click here for the schedule.

Reconstructing Judaism Newsletter
Interested in what’s happening in the national Reconstructing Judaism movement? Looking for some new ideas? Check out Reconstructing Judaism news here, or listen to the latest  podcast.

The Transparency and Inclusivity Committee welcomes your questions! We will find the answer and publish the question (but not the questioner) and answer in an upcoming Hakol. It is our intention at Havurah that what you know and understand about our congregation should not be a function of who you know. If you find yourself wondering about something related to Havurah, or if someone shares their question with you, we hope you contact us.

Send your questions to transparency@havurahshalom.org.

Please use this form to submit stories for this weekly community email. Submissions are due by noon on Tuesday each week.

Havurah Shalom is a vibrant, diverse, participatory Jewish community steeped in Jewish values promoting spirituality, learning, and acts of social responsibility.

Find our calendar and learn more at havurahshalom.org, or call 503-248-4662.

Confused About What Our Website Has To Offer?
This website guide should be able to help! Click the Havurah logo above or click here to access this how-to resource guide.

Reconstructing Judaism: An Exploration
Wednesday, Feb. 5, 12, 19; 7 pm - 8:30 pm
Facilitated by Rabbi Benjamin
What does it mean that Havurah is a member of Reconstructing Judaism? We will explore values and approaches that have inspired and guided the movement, engaging with material from founder Rabbi Mordechai Kaplan as well as contemporary Reconstructionist leaders. Sign up here!

Community Minyan
Saturday, Feb. 8, 10 am - 12 pm
Our Community Minyan is a welcoming and spirited service that includes davening, Torah reading and discussion. Led by Rabbi Benjamin or community members. Lunch follows. Childcare is available.

Workshop: Safer Together
Saturday, Feb. 8, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm at Havurah
This workshop will offer common sense first aid actions to take in a variety of situations while awaiting the arrival of emergency services. Please note that this is not a certificate course. Led by Adela Basayne. Register here.

Climate Action Tu B'Shvat Seder
Sunday, Feb. 9, 1 pm - 2:30 pm at Havurah
From mysticism, to forest marvels, to saviors that need our protection, this year Havurah’s Climate Action Team will join with Congregation P’nai Or to host our Climate Action Tu B’shvat seder. Through song, storytelling, prayer, and activism, our seder interweaves this sacred ritual and celebration of Trees and Renewal with our modern forest and climate crisis. A children's Tu B'Shvat seder will be taking place simultaneously for youth elementary school and younger. Older children are invited to the community seder. Both will be followed by a pot luck oneg of fruit-inspired treats. Please RSVP here.

Parenting with Multiple Layers
Monday, Feb. 10 & 24, 7 pm - 8:30 pm
Facilitated by Laura Orgel (psychologist, therapist) & Deborah Eisenbach-Budner
Parenting is challenging. Although each situation is unique and parenting experiences differ tremendously, mental or physical health conditions, addiction, history of trauma, and some kinds of disabilities can add another layer to parenting. These 2 sessions aim to begin to build a safe space for parents to be heard, break down the isolation that can come with parenting with many layers, and explore how Jewish community and Judaism can be helpful. Max. 8 participants (members of Havurah); commitment to confidentiality prior to attendance required. Please contact Laura at ljorgel@earthlink.net to indicate your interest in addition to signing up here.

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation
Tuesday, Feb. 11, 12 pm - 1 pm
We gather on Tuesdays, from 12 pm to 1 pm, to find some moments of quiet and shalom. Led by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner, Rabbi Benjamin, Adela Basayne, and Nancy Becker.

Morning Minyan
Wednesday, Feb. 12, 8:30 am - 9:00 am
For all who want a regular prayer practice and for people saying Kaddish.

Alter Rockers' Russian Lunch
Wednesday, Feb. 12, 11:30 am at Kachka: 960 SE 11th Ave.
Join us for delicious food at Kachka, considered by many as the best Russian restaurant in the country. Sign up here!

See Indecent with Havurahniks
March 5; contact Deborah by Feb. 13 to be seated together
If you haven't seen Indecent already, or want to see it again locally, you have another chance. And you can see the play with Havurahniks! You can buy your own ticket or contact Deborah at deborah@havurahshalom.org by Feb. 13 to join the Havurah seating area, which she will organize. You can also contact her for more information. Purchase your own ticket here. Some of the themes of Indecent will reappear in the Havurah class on Intergenerational Conflict and Sexuality in Yiddish Poetry, starting in April.

Kabbalat Shabbat
Friday, Feb. 14, 6:30 pm dinner & 7:30 pm service
Our catered vegetarian Kabbalat Shabbat Dinner begins at 6:30 pm, followed by a Kabbalat Shabbat Service at 7:30 pm. This event happens with the help of many volunteers. RSVP here, and please sign up for a volunteer spot by clicking here if you're able to help.

Mah Jongg
Sunday, Feb. 16, 2 pm - 5 pm at Havurah
We meet on Sundays, which are determined by the Havurah calendar, so they are not consistent at this point. If you are interested in being on the list and would like more info, contact Gloria Halper directly.

Purim Leadership Needed!
Sunday, Feb. 23, 10 am - 12 pm & Sunday, March 1, 10 am - 12 pm
Calling All Actors, Musicians, Chanters, Spielers, and Planners! Don't miss being a part of this year's celebration. Join the fun as we perform a few short skits to add to the joy of Purim. Dress up, become a king, queen, bad guy, or part of the crowd. We'll meet for a first rehearsal and brainstorming session on Sunday, Feb. 23, 10 am - 12 pm, with just one more rehearsal on Sunday, March 1, 10 am - 12 pm. All ages, past performers, levels of experience welcome. Purim celebration is on Monday, March 9. Contact Ellen Regal (see online Havurah directory) to sign up! In addition to spielers, we need megillah chanters. Please email Rabbi Benjamin if you're interested. Short readings with recordings happily provided.

Family Yizkor Service: Remembering Those We Loved
Sunday, Feb. 23, 1 pm - 2 pm
Has your family lost a loved one, who you continue to remember with your children? We will gather to remember, share, sing, and reflect on the lives and the loss of dear ones – in a way that gently includes children and their experience. Your family loss may have been very recent or years ago. We are focusing this experience on children ages 4-14, but older and younger are also welcome. We ask that you bring a photo or an object that reminds you of the person you are remembering, as well as something that your family wants to share about that person through words. Please RSVP here by Feb 18. Led by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner and Rabbi Benjamin.

Book Group Discusses Kickdown by Rebecca Clarren
Tuesday, Feb. 25, 7 pm - 8:30 pm
Kickdown, the book for February’s meeting, will be attended and led by its author (and Havurah member), Rebecca Clarren! This opens up an unusual opportunity to dialogue directly with an author, something that we have not previously done. Don’t miss this! The novel is a gritty tale about rural America. Kickdown was shortlisted for the PEN/Bellweather Prize. Discussion led by Rebecca Clarren & Marjorie Walters.

Family Shabbat
Saturday, Feb. 29, 10:30 am - 12 pm
Please join us for a fabulous morning of singing, storytelling, interactive Torah, community connections, and noshing. Especially for families with youth in Grades K–6 or those who want a boost of youthful energy. There will be time for parent-child engagement. Led by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner, Rabbi Benjamin, and community members. Followed by potluck lunch. Please RSVP here by February 20 so we can plan accordingly.

Interfaith Alliance on Poverty: First Thursday Monthly Meeting
Thursday, Feb. 6, 12 pm - 2 pm at Beth Israel, 1972 NW Flanders St.
Guest speakers Nan Stark of Portland Bureau of Planning & Sustainability and Rev. Andy Goebel of Portsmouth Union Church discuss zoning code changes to facilitate development of affordable housing.

Interfaith Alliance on Poverty: Planning & Sustainability Hearing
Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2 pm at 1900 SW 4th Ave., 2nd Floor, Room 2500
Help persuade city leadership to change the zoning code so that community-based organizations (such as faith communities) can build affordable housing on their land. Contact Steve Rudman (in the online Havurah directory) for details.

Community Conversation On Homelessness
Thursday, Feb. 13, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm at Beaumont Middle School Cafeteria
To continue the discussion at the Portland Downtown Neighborhood Association’s Educational Forum on Homelessness, Mayor Wheeler is hosting several more community conversations across Portland to share how the City is addressing homelessness and to listen to your priorities and ideas tied to the issue. Space is limited and attendance is based on first-come, first-serve. Contact Gloria Halper (in the online Havurah directory) for more information.

Office & Facilities Manager on Vacation
Rachel will be out of the office until Monday, Feb. 10.

Accidental Coat Swap! A Message from Fran Berg
"So many black coats and jackets! This Saturday, Feb. 1, I mistakenly took a black Columbia Sportswear Black rain coat belted with a silver omni-heat lining size M. Mine is the same cost but an XS. If you have the coat and you realize it fits a bit snug it’s probably mine and I have yours. Please message me so we can exchange. The size M coat is hanging back in the Havurah coat room. Please return mine. Thanks!"
– Fran Berg

February Hakol Is Out!
Wait for yours in the mail or read it online by clicking the cover above or by clicking here. The Kitchen Kvetch article "Tour with the Kvetch" will be online this month! Check it out on our blog here.

Havurah's Rosh Chodesh Group Has Two Openings
Did you know Havurah Shalom has a women's Rosh Chodesh group? We meet each month to celebrate the new moon through study and thoughtful conversations about Jewish practice, rituals, and history. We keep our membership small to encourage community building within Havurah. Currently, we have two openings available to welcome new members. You do not need any prior experience or Jewish knowledge to join, just an open mind and an interest in deepening your Havurah communal connections. All Havurah women and teens over bat mitzvah age are welcome. For more information, contact Liz Schwartz.

Contemplative Retreats with Rabbi Benjamin and Other Leaders
July 21-26 & August 17-23
Rabbi Benjamin will be teaching on two contemplative retreats in Oregon this summer, and it would be wonderful to have many Havurahniks participate. July 21-26 he will be teaching in Ashland with Rabbis Yael Levy and Joshua Boettiger, and August 17-23, right outside of Portland with Rabbi Shefa Gold. These are each inspiring and generous teachers, and both retreats will be powerful opportunities for growth and connection. See description of July retreat here (pricing TBD soon) and August retreat here. No prior experience required. Scholarships available. Contact Rabbi Benjamin at benjamin.barnett@havurahshalom.org with any questions.

Lost Your Tallis?
Havurah has a growing collection of tallitot that have perhaps been left behind after services. Could one of them be yours? Contact Rachel Pollak if you suspect the answer is yes! You can arrange to come in and look at them.

Fly Away, Breath
Friday, Feb. 7, 9 pm & Sunday, Feb. 9, 12 pm
Hipbone Studio, 1847 East Burnside, Portland
Fly Away, Breath, in the Fertile Ground Festival of New Works, is a political vampire comedy written by Karen Polinsky with a live score by cellist Esme Weigand Schwall — both Havurah Shalom members! Jonavon Wolf returns home to Fallowfield, PA to reopen the family mine, only to discover: a divided town, an empty grave, a colony of threatened bats, and the ticklish question: who here is the real vampire? A family drama set in modern-day Pennsylvania, this play explores our current politic, historic anti-Semitism, anti-Romani prejudice, and leads us on a path to a better way — and yes, it’s funny! 
Tickets are $10 here.

The Sephardic Winter Film Series Returns!
Feb. 11 & March 2 at 7 pm, 6686 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland
Sponsored by Ahavath Achim, the series will feature a film monthly on Tuesday evenings from December to March. Click here for the schedule.

The Mainstreaming of Antisemitism in America Today
Sunday, Feb. 23, 1 pm - 3 pm at Neveh Shalom, preceeded by a luncheon for Portland-area Jewish educators: put on by PAJE at 12:15 pm
This is the third workshop from the Federation's Antisemitism series for Portland Area educators. Register here.

PJA Is Accepting Applications for the 2020-2021 School Year
Portland Jewish Academy is currently accepting applications for the 2020-2021 school year. PJA is an inclusive Jewish community school for grades K-8 with a diverse student body and small class sizes that help students thrive. Contact Sarah Glass, Admission Director, at 503-535-3599 if you are interested.

Reconstructing Judaism Newsletter
Interested in what’s happening in the national Reconstructing Judaism movement? Looking for some new ideas? Check out Reconstructing Judaism news here, or listen to the latest  podcast.

The Transparency and Inclusivity Committee welcomes your questions! We will find the answer and publish the question (but not the questioner) and answer in an upcoming Hakol. It is our intention at Havurah that what you know and understand about our congregation should not be a function of who you know. If you find yourself wondering about something related to Havurah, or if someone shares their question with you, we hope you contact us.

Send your questions to transparency@havurahshalom.org.

Please use this form to submit stories for this weekly community email. Submissions are due by noon on Tuesday each week.

Havurah Shalom is a vibrant, diverse, participatory Jewish community steeped in Jewish values promoting spirituality, learning, and acts of social responsibility.

Find our calendar and learn more at havurahshalom.org, or call 503-248-4662.