Hineinu

Dear Havurahniks,

       We have just turned the page, as it were, in Torah to the book of Leviticus. Here we are met with elaborate details regarding the sacrificial system which was the central modality of our ancestors’ spiritual lives. On the surface these sections can feel quite inaccessible. One detail I have been lifting up, however, is the word itself translated as sacrifice: Korban in Hebrew. It derives from the word karov, meaning “close” or “near.” An offering, in our ancestors’ minds, was a drawing-near: to the Divine, to a sense of holiness and connection, and to our ethical commitments. These stretches of Torah, then, can serve to motivate us towards our own drawing-near to these aspects of life.
       How interesting to be instructed to draw near at a time when are told specifically, on a physical plane, to be distant. It is a challenging yet profound invitation, and perhaps exactly what we need right now. More than ever, we need to draw close to one another. As a community, we are working hard to provide ways for that to happen.
       One approach we have for pursuing this goal is reaching out to those in our community who are in need in any way. Among our other forms of support, which you can read about below, we have been organizing volunteers to make phone calls to those who could benefit from some additional connection. I am collaborating on this with Tivona Reith, who has been working to develop a system to carry out this sacred task. We both agreed that our first stage of calls will be not only to specific people, but to all Havurah households. While we might be able to identify certain members who are particularly vulnerable, the truth is that we are all vulnerable and would all benefit from connection. So over the next week to ten days, you or someone in your family will be getting a call from a member of this team of volunteers. I hope you will welcome it and appreciate spending a few minutes with a fellow Havurahnik. In addition to being one more thread of connection, these calls will also help us learn about any needs which are present, as well as risks that any of us face as this crisis unfolds. Thank you in advance for helping us support one another, and for being part of our collective drawing-near when we most need it.
 

Bivrakka,
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 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 virtual events below.

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.

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation, Thursday, 5:30 pm – Room Aleph
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 session meant for children 4-10. Ready your drawing materials!

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!

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.

Find the Zoom rooms here once you sign in.

____________________________
 

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!

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 Meditations to a Havurah Website Guide
 

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 Friends,

I am wishing you each blessings of shalom amidst these shifting times. I am struck by the level of uncertainty that pervades this moment. None of us knows how this situation will unfold, which of course, can feel quite unsettling. This sense of uncertainty is something we deeply share right now.
 
I have been drawn once again by the moment when the Divine calls out to Moshe from the Burning Bush. I spoke about it this past Yom Kippur, and it felt appropriate to share some of that again here:
 
Hineini (Here I am), Moses answers. And God tells him to return to Pharaoh and demand that he let the people go… Understandably, Moses asks for God’s name…

God’s answer: “Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh — I Will Be What I Will Be.”

The closest I can get [to my name] is, Becoming. That is my name. My essence — which is to say, the nature of Reality — is in flux. I cannot tell you exactly what you are getting into here. I cannot give you a picture of precisely what will happen.

To say Hineini often means stepping out into the unknown…

But then God adds: Eyheh imakh — I will be with you. And, I will send your brother Aaron to meet you. To say Hineini is to place ourselves in relationship. When we truly say it, we remind ourselves that we are not alone.
 
This past Shabbat, I was so moved by the sense of connection we co-created. I have heard from several of you who felt similarly. It felt like a powerful reminder of how life-giving it is when we genuinely reach across whatever divides exist and find one another. While we do not know what will happen, we know that collectively we can continue to do this, and that it will continue to sustain us and bring meaning and healing into our lives. This we know.
 
In response to those feelings of uncertainty, I have been turning (as best I can!) to kindness. I have been moving toward whatever small way I can let someone know I am with them and thinking about how I can alleviate someone’s burden. I have been touched by the various ways in which I have witnessed others (including many of you) do the same. In this great unknowing, we can help each other remember that while we do not know where this road will lead, we know that we can travel it together.
 
Many of you have asked about the kindness we can extend toward those in our community who are in need right now. Thank you. Please contact me at benjamin.barnett@havurahshalom.org if you are able to help.
 
Lastly, one of the greatest acts of kindness and care we can exhibit right now is helping to slow the spread of this virus. I imagine that many of you have seen this article by now. The author, a physician and public health leader, is a good friend of my brother’s and someone whose perspective I greatly respect. I know that his recommendations may feel austere to some of you, but I urge us all to take them seriously and follow them as best we can. One of the most powerful and effective means we have to ease the discomfort of uncertainty is to be able to act. And right now we can. What we do over these days and weeks can actually save lives. So please, for the benefit of all who are vulnerable, for everyone we know and everyone we do not know, let us each play our part by being physically distant and finding other ways to be in relationship.
 
To those of you for whom these steps present particular difficulty, please be in touch with me or another staff member and let’s see how our Havurah network can provide you support.
 

L'shalom,
Rabbi Benjamin

____________________________
 

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

Morning Minyan, Wednesday, 8:30 am – Room Aleph
Deborah’s Returning to Israel Talk, Wednesday, 5:45 pm – Room Aleph
Shabbat Evening Home Rituals with Alicia Jo Rabins, Friday, 5:30 pm – Room Bet
HIAS Refugee Shabbat, Saturday, 10 am – Room Aleph

If you're a member, login here to access these virtual rooms.

____________________________
 

Other Resources You May Like
From Meditations to Reconstructing Judaism Articles
 

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

Ritualwell Coronavirus Articles (a website by Reconstructing Judaism)

PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL EVENTS HAVE BEEN MOVED TO VIRTUAL SPACES DUE TO CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS.

Contact Brad at brad@havurahshalom.org with any questions.

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
DATE CHANGED (TBA)
 

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation
Tuesday, March 17, 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 18, 8:30 am - 9 am
For all who want a regular prayer practice and for people saying Kaddish.

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, especially in case there is a date change.

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.

Book Group Discusses People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks
Wednesday, March 25, 7 pm - 8:30 pm at Havurah
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. In 1996, Hanna Heath, an Australian rare-book expert, is offered the job of a lifetime: analysis and conservation of the famed Haggadah, which has been rescued from Serb shelling during the Bosnian war. Discussion led by Marcia Suttenberg.

Alter Rocker's Happy Hour Before the Annual Sara Glasgow Cogan Lecture
Tuesday, March 31, 4:30 pm - 9 pm
As in past years, Alter Rockers will have a Happy Hour before this annual event to honor Sara Glasgow Cogan, a member of Havurah Shalom and wife of Nathan Cogan, who was killed in a pedestrian accident. We will meet at Rogue Hall, on the PSU Campus at 1717 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97201, at 4:30 PM to eat, drink, and schmooze. At about 6 PM, we will walk across the campus to see the Lecture (which begins at 7 PM) in Smith Memorial Student Union Ballroom, Room 355. RSVP here.

2000 Years of Jewish Understandings of Slavery and Freedom   
Wednesday, March 11, 18, 25, 7 pm - 8:30 pm   ALL SESSIONS CANCELLED

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 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.

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!

Poverty & Homelessness Committee: Send Your Comments In!
On January 14, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) proposed a new rule that would amend HUD’s Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) regulations by drastically cutting requirements meant to enforce fair housing. This rule will undermine efforts to ensure that all people living in the United States can find affordable, livable housing without discrimination. These amendments would weaken the enforcement of the Fair Housing Act of 1968 leading to increased discrimination and higher risks of homelessness among communities of color. To comment by March 16, click here.

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  CANCELLED

New Electronics Policy: Limiting Phone Use During Service Times
During times when prayer services are being conducted in our building, we want to maximize the opportunity for participants in the services to find peace, prayer-fullness, focus and to gain new understandings of our liturgy, Torah and connect with each other. The Spiritual Life Committee worked with the B’nei Mitzvah Committee and Steering for nearly 12 months on a policy for use of electronics during times when prayer services are being conducted. The policy seeks to manage use of electronics so that they allow participants to connect peacefully through prayer, meditation and to Torah and community. It seeks to limit the amount of electronics used in the building to just what is necessary to accommodate photography of special events and disabilities. We encourage everyone to review the policy here. Send comments or questions to Sam Sirkin.

Sign Up for the Bereavement Support 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.

A Helpful Website Guide

Click on the logo above to get our introductory website guide!

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.

Editorial Note: We've heard your feedback on the length of Havurah Happenings. In response, we will be asking contributors to shorten their program descriptions (more detailed descriptions can be found on calendar event pages on our website, linked in this email), and we will endeavor to avoid too much repetition of events. As ever, we are striving to be thoughtful and fair about any changes. Please let us know about your experience by replying to this email.

March Hakol Is Out!
Check out the new issue of Hakol here, just before it gets to your doorstep.

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. Led by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner, Rabbi Benjamin, and community members. Followed by potluck lunch.

Purim Actors, Musicians, Chanters, Spielers and Planners Needed!
Sunday, March 1, 10 am - 12 pm
Join the fun as we perform a few short skits to add to the joy of our Purim Celebration skits. A first rehearsal and brainstorming session will take place Sunday, Feb. 23, 10 am, with just one more rehearsal on Sunday, March 1, 10 am. Purim Celebration is on Monday, March 9. Contact Ellen Regal to sign up! We also need Megillah chanters! Please email Rabbi Benjamin if you're interested.

Garden Spring Cleanup Work Party
Sunday, March 1, 10 am - 2 pm
Come tend our garden, rain or shine. Bring pruners and garden gloves and snack to share. All are welcome!

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation
Tuesday, March 3, 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 4, 8:30 am - 9 am
For all who want a regular prayer practice and for people saying Kaddish.

Reading and Oneg with the Havurah Writing Group
Friday, March 6, 7 - 8:30 pm
The Havurah Writer’s Group will be sharing short memoir pieces from their 8-session workshop. The one-hour of reading will be followed by an oneg. Creativity abounds! Come and hear your fellow Havurahniks!

Purim Celebration
Monday, March 9, 6 pm Dinner and Games; 6:30 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.

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 .

Safety Training: Stop the Bleed
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
This is not a Havurah activity (please note location), but Havurahniks are encouraged to attend trainings that promote our overall safety. Become trained, equipped and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives. RSVP to Julie Alferez.

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. Register here.

2000 Years of Jewish Understandings of Slavery and Freedom

Preparing Ourselves for Passover    
Wednesday, Mar. 4, 11, 18, 25, 7 pm - 8:30 pm   NEW DATES
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.

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.

Kesher Tech: Explore 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 by March 1.

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 about it!

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
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.

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, 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.

Celebrate LIFT Urban Portland's New Food Pantry
Monday, March 9, 4 - 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. There is no fee, but donations are gratefully accepted. Lift UP hopes to raise $20,000 to ensure that the pantry best serves our community. Details and RSVP or call (503) 221-1224.

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, 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.

Contemplative Retreats with Rabbi Benjamin and Other Leaders
July 21-26 & August 17-23
Rabbi Benjamin will be co-teaching on two contemplative retreats in Oregon this summer, and it would be wonderful to have many Havurahniks participate. From July 21 to 26, he will teach in Ashland, and August 17 to 23  right outside of Portland. No prior experience required. Scholarships available. Contact Rabbi Benjamin with any questions.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The latest B'nei Mitzvah cohort. Mazel tov! Taken by Barbara Gundle.

Mazel Tov to the Havurah Shalom community and the 5780 Adult Bnai Mitzvah group. What a wonderful service they led on Feb. 1, with thought-provoking and rich Torah learning and beautiful music. A huge thank you to all community members who supported this learning and celebration, especially the 5776 ABM group who made the community lunch possible! If you would like to learn more about the next Adult B'nei Mitzvah cohort or the process, please contact Deborah Eisenbach-Budner.

Kabbalat Shabbat
Friday, Feb. 14, 7:30 pm service
Please join us for our spirited and joy-filled Kabbalat Shabbat Service, which starts at 7:30 pm. Music will be provided by our talented Havurah musicians. Everyone is welcome at our 7:30 pm service, whether or not they attend the dinner at 6:30 pm. RSVPs are only required for the dinner. Childcare is available for kids age 2 to 8.

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.

Text & Torah: Yitro
Saturday, Feb. 15, 10 am - 12 pm
Torah study and bagel nosh followed by a shortened morning service. Facilitated by Rabbi Benjamin.

Family Tu B'Shvat Hike
Saturday, Feb. 15, 10 am - 12 pm at Mt. Tabor Park
A rain or shine walk in Mt. Tabor Park to enjoy time together in nature. Songs and snacks and good company! RSVP to receive meet up location. Led by Adela Basayne.

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.

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation
Tuesday, Feb. 18, 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, Feb. 19, 8:30 am - 9:00 am
For all who want a regular prayer practice and for people saying Kaddish.

Rabbi Benjamin at Purim in 2018.

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.

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.

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.

Hineinu: Being Present for Each Other in Times of Struggle and Loss
A Workshop & Training to Establish a Bikkur Ḥolim Cohort at Havurah
Thursdays, 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!

Community Conversation On Homelessness
Thursday, Feb. 13, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm at Beaumont Middle School Cafeteria
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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

United In Spirit Events
Southern Rites
Feb. 5 - May 24, 2020
An exhibition at Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education:
American photographer Gillian Laub examines the realities of racism in America.
 
Film: From Swastika to Jim Crow
Feb. 18 at 7 pm, OJMCHE
Based on the book by Gabrielle Simon Edgcomb, tells the story of two
very different cultures, sharing a common burden of oppression.
 
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. 17 at 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Neveh Shalom, 2900 SW Peaceful Lane, Portland

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 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.

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.

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

Adult B'nei Mitzvah
Saturday, Feb. 1, 10 am; 6 Sh’vat 5780; Parashat Bo
Please share in the joy of community and learning as Havurah Shalom’s Adult B’nai Mitzvah group is called to the Torah. RSVP here.

Amy Lennon
Kate Dreyfus
Benjamin Walters
Beth Yohalem-Ilsley
Laurel Singer
Patricia Schwartz
Curtis Shipley
Rachel Shipley
Nancy Spigal
Rochelle Hannah Cohen
Charles Green
David Naftali Kertzner

After services, you are invited to a luncheon sponsored by the B’nai Mitzvah group along with the help of the Havurah Community and other friends and family.

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation
Tuesday, Feb. 4, 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.

Returning to Israel After 26 Years: Deborah Eisenbach-Budner Shares Impressions & Questions
Tuesday, February 4, 1:15 pm - 2:15 pm, Havurah Library
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 some of the amazing and disturbing changes in Israel in the last two and a half decades. 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 if you plan to come (or are unable to come but are interested; she may plan an additional time for this talk if there is interest).

Morning Minyan
Wednesday, Feb. 5, 8:30 am - 9:00 am
For all who want a regular prayer practice and for people saying Kaddish.

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.

Reconstructing Judaism: An Exploration
Wednesday, Feb. 5, 12, 19; 7 pm - 8:30 pm; RSVP by Jan. 29
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!

Panim el Panim: Face to Face about Israel & Palestine
Thursday, February 6 & 27, 7 - 9 pm; RSVP by Feb. 3
Coordinated by Nancy Becker, Lee Gordon, Eliana Temkin, and Rabbi Benjamin.
For too long the subject of Israel/Palestine has been almost taboo within Havurah, as it is in Jewish communities around the world. Havurahniks are invited to a venue where we can speak truthfully and also listen respectfully to one other about this complex and challenging subject. Each session will be carefully facilitated to allow for speaking, listening, and understanding about where we each are coming from. These will not be arguments nor attempts at political solutions, but rather opportunities to share our thoughts, feelings, and struggles, and to respect each other amidst our disagreements. No prior knowledge or experience required. RSVP here by Feb. 3. Please reach out to any of us with questions.

Parenting with Multiple Layers
Monday, Feb. 10 & 24, 7 pm - 8:30 pm; RSVP by Jan. 24
Facilitated by Laura Orgel (psychologist, therapist) and Deborah Eisenbach-Budner
Parenting is challenging at some points no matter what. 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. Systemic social issues like stigma, marginalization, lack of services, or general lack of knowledge can add yet more layers and create further challenge. 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 by January 20 to indicate your interest in addition to signing up here.

Contemplative Retreats with Rabbi Benjamin and Others This Summer
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.

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.

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.

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!

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
Mah Jongg at Havurah! We meet on Sundays, which are determined by the Havurah calendar, so they are not consistent at this point. A doodle poll goes out to those on our list. If you are interested in being on the list and would like more info, contact Gloria Halper directly.

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 child/ren? 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.

Last Thursday Witness: IMIrJ ICE Vigil
Thursday, Jan. 30, 10 am, PDX 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.

Poverty and Homelessness Committee: Portland Homeless Family Solutions
Monday, February 3, 10 am or 6:30 pm; Family Village, 6220 SE 92nd Ave.
Wednesday, February 5, 10 am or 6:30 pm; Family Village, 6220 SE 92nd Ave.
PHFS has moved into their new Lent's building - The Family Village! Havurah members continue to volunteer as a group one night a month. Many are also volunteering with Havurah as well as putting in hours on their own.
Volunteer tasks, some new, some old: Sunrise Host, Midday Host, Kid Time Host, Helping Hand, Meal Provider, and Back Up Meals. Look for more details in February Hakol. The orientations are an hour and will give you a good idea if one or more of these volunteer tasks is just what you have been looking for or something to push you a bit past your comfort zone! Please RSVP to tc@pdxhfs.org with the time and date you'll be attending. Contact Gloria Halper or John Devlin with questions.

HCAT Book Discussion: The Hidden Life of Trees
Monday, Feb. 3, 7 pm - 8:30 pm at Havurah
Leading up to B'Shvat, the Havurah Climate Action Team is sponsoring a special book group to discuss The Hidden Life of Trees. We will have a conversation about this groundbreaking book that is guaranteed to surprise you and change the way you think about trees and forests. Read before your next hike in the woods! Discusssion led by Andy Beers.

Interfaith Alliance on Poverty: First Thursday Monthly Meeting
Thursday, Feb. 6, 12 pm - 2 pm at Beth Israel, 1972 NW Flanders St.,
Goodman Hall across from the main building - enter through the glass doors. The meeting will be on the main floor.
Nan Stark of the PDX Bureau of Planning and Sustainability is the speaker. Her focus will be on upcoming recommendations re: zoning of church land and other community based organizations for use for affordable housing.

Planning & Sustainability Commission Hearing
Tuesday, Feb. 11, 12:30 pm at 1900 SW 4th Ave., 2nd Floor
Wear red and join multiple faith groups supporting zoning code changes to help facilitate development of affordable housing on land owned by faith groups! Contact Steve Redman or Gloria Halper to RSVP, or for more information.

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.

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.

Let's Use Up the Jam in the Fridge!
If you are baking for a Havurah event, consider using some of the copious amounts of jam in the Havurah fridge. Thank you!

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.

Women’s Giving Circle Is Now Accepting Grant Proposals
Grant submission deadline: February 21, 2020
Award date: June 30, 2020
The Jewish Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy’s Women’s Giving Circle is now accepting grant proposals. The Women's Giving Circle is proud to impact our community through our collective giving. Together our giving reflects a vision and process that allows us to build a better world. This year, we are proud funders of the Rachel's Well Bodies of Water program, BB Camp's summer camp inclusion coordinator, the Rosh Chodesh annual joint women's retreat for the University of Oregon and Oregon State University Hillel students, the Shmirat Haguf Jewish yoga for women at the MJCC, and Rosh Chodesh groups at Chabad of Hillsboro Oregon. The Women’s Giving Circle’s now in our fourth year! We are looking forward to furthering our impact in the community. Apply here! If you have questions, please email Wendy at wendy@jewishportland.org.

World Zionist Congress Elections
Reconstructing Judaism would like you to know about the upcoming World Zionist Congress Election which takes place between January 21 and March 11. This election helps decide how to spend ~$1 billion dollars of funding. WZC elections take place every five years, and this year there are two slates that Reconstructing Judaism is supporting. The ARZA slate was formed by RJ and the reform movement, while the Hatikvah slate was formed by organizations in the Progressive Israel Network of which RJ is a member. Any self-identified Jew who in the US who is 18 years old can participate. There is a fee of $7.50 if you would like to vote, and American Jews will account for ~30% of the final delegate total. Visit the following link where you can vote and also find out more information on all the participating slates. The American Zionist Movement is hosting the election. You can read more in depth about its history and the organizations involved here.

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.