Hineinu, November 29, 2023

The Cost of Free Land: Jews, Lakota, and an American Inheritance by Havurahnik Rebecca Clarren
5:30 to 7 pm, Wednesday, December 6 – on Zoom, register to attend here
From Seeding Justice: Join Seeding Justice, Temple Beth Israel of Portland, Havurah Shalom of Portland, and the Jewish Federation of Lane County as we welcome Portland-based, award-winning journalist Rebecca Clarren and Seeding Justice Executive Director Se-ah-dom Edmo (Shoshone-Bannock, Nez Perce and Yakama) in a conversation around Clarren’s new book, The Cost of Free Land.

Clarren’s book combines investigative reporting with Clarren’s own family history “to reveal the intertwined stories of her family and the Lakota, and the devastating cycle of loss of Indigenous land, culture, and resources that continues today. With deep empathy and clarity of purpose, Clarren grapples with the personal and national consequences of this legacy of violence and dispossession. What does it mean to survive oppression only to perpetuate and benefit from the oppression of others? By shining a light on the people and families tangled up in this country’s difficult history, The Cost of Free Land invites readers to consider their own culpability and what, now, can be done.”

Click here to learn more about this Zoom-based book discussion. There is no cost to attend; you can go directly to the registration link here.

New Adult B'nei Mitzvah Cohort Forming Now - Nov. 30 Due Date (Contact Deborah Eisenbach-Budner)!
A new Havurah Shalom Adult B’nei Mitzvah group is forming! Are you interested in: Deepening your knowledge and commitment to Torah, Tefillah (Prayer), and Kehillah (Community)? Expanding your Jewish literacy skills, confidence, and sense of connection with Judaism? Going through this process in community and celebrating your Jewish learning in Havurah? Then…consider joining the new Adult B’nei Mitzvah cohort.  This group will study together from January 2024 to February 2026 with Havurah Education Director Deborah Eisenbach-Budner, Rabbi Benjamin, Program Director Adela Basayne, and other teachers. Click herefor more information.

The group is forming now. Be in touch with Deborah Eisenbach-Budner (deborah@havurahshalom.org) by Thursday, November 30, 2023 to learn more.

Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration on Friday, December 8
6 pm Oneg; 6:30 pm Service; 7:30 pm Dinner, Friday, December 8 – Havurah Shalom (and also Zoom Room Aleph for the 6:30 pm service)
We hold Kabbalat Shabbat celebrations on the second Friday evening of each month from October through May: A family-friendly oneg followed by a service led by Rabbi Benjamin and Havurah musicians, with dinner afterward (dinner will require registration and may fill up). Free childcare is provided. All are welcome! The 7:30 pm dinner portion requires registration, however, and slots may fill up quickly. No RSVP/registration is needed to join for the 6 pm oneg and 6:30 pm service.
- Click here to register for the 7:30 dinner on the Dec. 8 Kabbalat Shabbat event page (while space is still available). 
- Havurahniks, click here to learn how to help out during the Dec. 8 celebration–volunteer shifts start at 15 minutes.

Hanukkah at Havurah Shalom - RSVP once you know you'll be joining our Chanukah celebration!
Sunday, December 10 from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm at Havurah
Juin us for an evening of Chanukah fun for everyone! All are welcome! Please RSVP. (Part of our Chanukah festivities will also be shared via Zoom. RSVP to be sent Zoom details when they are ready. And if you plan to only join via Zoom, please note that when you RSVP/register.)

Tzedakah Opportunity: Helping Israelis and Palestinians
While not a comprehensive list of all organizations worthy of your consideration, here is a list (reviewed by Havurah program staff) of a number of charitable organizations helping Israelis and Palestinians.

General Info

Thank you for following our COVID safety guidelines for in-person gatherings, which were updated on June 15, 2023. Contacting your fellow Havurah members: If a member's name is hyperlinked below, you can go directly to their contact page in the directory by clicking on their name and then logging into your Havurah account. Or search in the online Havurah member directory (log into the website and go to the Contact tab). Zoom/YouTube stream links can be found near the end of this email.

Regular Happenings

Weekly Torah Study​ 
9 am, Saturdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Bet
An in-depth look at the weekly Torah reading, led by congregants. No prior knowledge or study is necessary.

Shabbat Morning
10 am, Saturdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
All are welcome at our Shabbat services, including b'nei mitzvah services. Upcoming b'nei mitzvah (Bennet Aliyar, December 16) are listed below and in the website calendar. (On December 9, there will be a Tot Shabbat at Havurah Shalom from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. RSVP for that Tot Shabbat.)

Mahjong Group
1 pm, first and third Mondays – Havurah Shalom Library
Mahjong is a fun, social activity that builds community, encouraging new friendships and cementing old ones. If you want to learn how to play, please contact Leah Hershey for teaching resources. If you are ready to join a game, please RSVP on the calendar. To receive Mahjong Group updates, ask Leah to add you to the email list.

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation
12 pm, Tuesdays – Havurah Shalom (Sanctuary or Library) and Zoom Room Bet
We gather to find moments of quiet and shalom in a welcoming space. Various styles of Jewish meditation are explored. No meditation experience necessary. All are welcome to drop in. Led by Rabbi Benjamin, Adela Basayne, Nancy Becker, or Deborah Eisenbach-Budner.

Morning Minyan
8:30 am, Wednesdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
For all who want a regular prayer practice and those saying Kaddish. All are welcome.

Upcoming Events

Racial Justice Movie Discussion Night: Selma
6:30 pm to 8 pm, Sunday, December 3 – Zoom Room Bet
Please join the Racial Justice Committee for a discussion of the movie Selma. (Please watch the film ahead of time; it's available on several platforms.) This is the third film in our series. Film summary: Although the Civil Rights Act of 1964 legally desegregated the South, discrimination was still rampant in certain areas, making it very difficult for Black people to register to vote. In 1965, an Alabama city became the battleground in the fight for suffrage. Despite violent opposition, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his followers pressed forward on an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, and their efforts culminated with President Lyndon Johnson signing the Voting Rights Act of 1965.  Rated PG-13, although note there are several scenes with graphic violence. Contact Kathy Gordon if you have questions. RSVPing is helpful but not required.

Havurah 101: You're a Havurah Member - Now What?
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Tuesday, December 5 – Zoom Room Bet
Do you have questions about how Havurah's committee structure works?  What makes our participatory model different?  How can you connect with areas you may be interested in?  Join members of the Leadership Development Committee for a discussion to learn more about the inner works of Havurah and how you can find your place in the community.  All members welcome. RSVP

Sacred Music of Moroccan Jews
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Tuesday, December 5 – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Gimel
Eyal Bitton is the cantor at Portland's Neveh Shalom and was raised in the Moroccan Jewish community in Montreal. Through lecture and song, he will examine various elements of Moroccan sacred music—synagogue song, cantillation of sacred texts, the piyyut (liturgical poetry), and life cycle songs. Moroccan Jews have a very rich and proud religious culture, and a varied and ancient musical tradition, reflecting its Moroccan milieu, its Andalusian heritage, and more. RSVP

Winter Clothing Drive for Rose Haven: Two Contribution Opportunities 
5 pm to 6 pm, Friday, December 8 (just before the December Kabbalat Shabbat) and 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, Sunday, December 10 (during our Chanukah Celebration) – Havurah Shalom
The Havurah Poverty and Homelessness Committee will collect winter coats and other needed items for the women and non-binary folks served by the Rose Haven day shelter. There is a substantial need for community donations this winter. Thank you. Items most needed: adult women's clothing, with a particular need for larger sizes - winter coats, raincoats, waterproof pants, durable pants, waterproof shoes/ boots, hats, gloves, hand warmers, socks, BRAND NEW underwear, and blankets. Questions? Contact Gloria Halper or  Marcia Suttenberg.

Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration
6 pm Oneg; 6:30 pm Service; 7:30 pm Dinner, Friday, December 8 – Havurah Shalom (and also Zoom Room Aleph for the 6:30 pm service)
We hold Kabbalat Shabbat celebrations on the second Friday evening of each month from October through May: A family-friendly oneg followed by a service led by Rabbi Benjamin and Havurah musicians, with dinner afterward (dinner will require registration and may fill up). Free childcare is provided. All are welcome! The 7:30 pm dinner portion requires registration, however, and slots may fill up quickly. No RSVP/registration is needed to join for the 6 pm oneg and 6:30 pm service. Click here to register for the 7:30 dinner (while space is still available). Havurahniks, click here to learn how to help out during the Dec. 8 celebration--volunteer shifts start at 15 minutes.

Havurah Hanukkah Celebration
4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, Sunday, December 10 – Havurah Shalom (with the last 20-30 minutes, approximately, to be joinable online as well) - Please RSVP 
All are invited to celebrate the lights of Chanukah at Havurah Shalom! Fun for adults, teens, and children alike. Bring family, friends, or just yourself! Our Chanukah celebration will include live Hanukkah music, a potluck (and a latke tasting contest!), dreidel playing, gelt, arts and crafts, gaga, storytelling, candle lighting and more! Additionally, some Hanukkah Tikkun Olam activities you may wish to participate in include a Living Lightly Gifts Table, to take and/or leave previously loved items in good condition that would be nice for someone to have as a gift (hosted by the Havurah Climate Action Team) and the Winter Clothing Donation Drive for the Rose Haven day center (hosted by the Havurah Poverty and Homelessness Committee). Click here to RSVP, as well as to learn more about our Chanukah Celebration, including the two Tikkun Olam activities.

Havurah Instrumental Music Jam
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Monday, December 11 (second Mondays) –  Havurah Shalom (Pardes Room, near the courtyard)
Come play together in community! Bring your enthusiasm, your instrument and voice! The jams will continue monthly on the second Monday of the month. Song sheets will be provided and include a mix of Hanukkah songs, folk, Jewish and popular music. Questions? Contact Julie Walcer. RSVP

Steering Committee Meeting
6:30 pm, Tuesday, December 12 – Zoom Room Gimel
All Havurah members are invited to attend the monthly meetings of the Havurah Steering Committee.

Rosh Ḥodesh Tov! Gender-Inclusive New Moon Ritual
7 pm to 8:15 pm, Wednesday, December 13 (and monthly with new moon) – RSVP for location updates and details throughout the year
A gender-inclusive New Moon group, learning and celebrating each Rosh Ḥodesh with ancient and contemporary ritual. Open to any and all genders, inviting each to connect with our closest heavenly body, the Moon. Gatherings take place monthly on or near the new moon of each Hebrew month at 7 pm, either on Zoom or in person—outdoors in inner North/East Portland—depending on seasonal shifts in the weather. Attend any or all sessions. RSVP to be updated on location and other details throughout the year.

Shabbat Morning with Bar Mitzvah of Bennet Aliyar
10 am, Saturday, December 16 – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
Please join us for Shabbat morning services, including welcoming Bennet Aliyar as a Bar Mitzvah and member of our community. All are welcome.

More Tikkun Olam 

Join Metropolitan Alliance for Public Good (MACG) for a Leadership Training: Leadership Institute for Public Life!
1 pm to 5 pm, Sundays, December 3 and December 10 - Bethel Lutheran (5658 N Denver Avenue, Portland, Oregon)
This leadership training (MACG Leadership Institute for Public Life) is available cost-free to any member of Havurah, as we are a MACG member. It is a unique opportunity designed to empower and cultivate leaders like you by equipping them with the skills and knowledge required to create a positive impact within your institutions and the broader community. We are committed to fostering a dynamic school of public life where leaders can flourish. Click here to register for the MACG Leadership Institute for Public Life. Contact Bob Brown with any questions.

Interfaith Alliance on Poverty First Thursday: Presentation from Three Faith Leaders
12 pm to 1:30 pm, Thursday, December 7 – Zoom hosted by the Interfaith Alliance on Poverty (RSVP for this event at this link - After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.)
Interfaith Alliance on Poverty First Thursday presentation will be from three of IAP faith leaders, Father Dave Zegar of St. Andrews Catholic Church, Reverend Alison Miller of First Unitarian Universalist Church and Reverend Beth Neel of Westminster Presbyterian Church will speak to us about how we can find and offer hope in our times. There will be time for Q&A following their presentations. Questions? Contact Sue Abrams.

Winter Clothing Drive for Rose Haven: Two Contribution Opportunities
5 pm to 6 pm, Friday, December 8 (just before the December Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration) and 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, Sunday, December 10 (during Havurah's Hanukkah celebration) – Havurah Shalom
The Havurah Poverty and Homelessness Committee will collect winter coats and other needed items for the women and non-binary folks served by the Rose Haven day shelter. There is a substantial need for community donations this winter. Thank you. Items most needed: adult women's clothing, with a particular need for larger sizes - winter coats, raincoats, waterproof pants, durable pants, waterproof shoes/ boots, hats, gloves, hand warmers, socks, BRAND NEW underwear, and blankets. Questions? Contact Gloria Halper or Marcia Suttenberg.

Living Lightly Gifts Table at the Havurah Chanukah Celebration, Hosted by the Havurah Climate Action Team (HCAT)
4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, Sunday, December 10 (during Havurah's Hanukkah celebration) – Havurah Shalom
Do you have toys, games, puzzles, jewelry, books, woven baskets, blank journals, or other items in your house that you no longer use/need, and are in good shape, that someone – child, teen or adult - might like to receive as a gift? Then bring them to the Chanukah party, and put them on one of the swap tables. Are you looking for a little gift to appreciate yourself or to give to someone else? Then come check out the swap tables at the Chanukah party. You do not have to bring an item(s) to take an item(s). All items are free for the taking! Any items left on the tables at the end of the evening will be packed up donated.

News & Events from Our Tikkun Olam Partners

Path Home (formerly PHFS): Volunteer for our monthly Path Home dinner | Interfaith Alliance on Poverty (IAP) | Lift UP | MACG | Jewish Coalition for Immigrant Justice NW ​​​​​​ | Rose Haven

Out in the Community

Jewish Poetry Book Club (instigated by Havurahnik Betsy Fogelman Tighe)
12:30 pm to 2 pm, Wednesday, December 6 – Eastside Jewish Commons (2420 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, Oregon)
Join for the December 6 gathering of the Jewish Poetry Book Club, instigated by but not under the tutelage of Havurahnik Betsy Fogelman Tighe. Love to read poetry? Drawn to Jewish poets writing in English, Hebrew, and Yiddish in translation? Let's lift the poetry right off the page with some communal meaning-making. The December 6 poetry selection is Avrom Sutzkever's The Full Pomegranate. Please come prepared with comments. Feel free to bring your lunch, and plan on making a small donation to EJC at each meeting. $3-10 is suggested. No one turned away for lack of funds.

Reconstructing Judaism

From Reconstructing Judaism: "As Israel Affairs Specialist at Reconstructing Judaism, I’d like to call your attention to a unique and timely webinar set for this Thursday, November 30, 2023, at ... 9 am US Pacific Time. Reconstructionists are invited to join a special one-hour online conversation on pain, hope and a shared political vision with the leaders of A Land for All.
 
The webinar will feature a conversation with Dr. Ameer Fakhoury & Avi Dabush, members of the leadership of A Land for All, a movement of Palestinians and Israelis who are working together on a shared political vision for a better and peaceful future. A Land for All envisions two states sharing one homeland and co-existing within a confederation that is based on equality, cooperation, independence, and interdependence and provides both peoples with freedom and national self-determination. The conversation will be hosted by May Pundak, the movement’s Israeli executive director. The registration page for this webinar is at https://tinyurl.com/7uu6udd6.
 
Reconstructing Judaism does not officially endorse or oppose confederation models for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but we value hearing from Israelis and Palestinians who are committed to a shared future of co-existence and who are working together on possible creative political and diplomatic solutions to the ongoing conflict. This webinar, being held during this time of war and tremendous uncertainty, offers us an opportunity to learn more about one version of the two-state-solution that has been gaining attention in political and diplomatic arenas as well as among a number of grassroots organizations in Israel and the Palestinian Territories."

Resources

Do You Need Support?
If you are facing emotional, financial, or health challenges and would welcome support, please consider contacting the (a) Bikkur Holim (Visiting the Sick) Committee for spiritual support, (b) Lotsa Helping Hands for help with food, transportation, or other errands, or (c) Rabbi Benjamin, for spiritual and moral support – benjamin@havurahshalom.org or 503-248-4662 ext. 3. If you're interested in being on a list of people who support others in concrete ways, such as grocery shopping or running other errands, please contact Lotsa Helping Hands. To request that the name of a relative or Havurah member be read during the Misheberach (healing prayer) at Shabbat services, please use this Misheberach Request Form.

Questions About Havurah?
The Transparency & Inclusivity Committee is an avenue within Havurah Shalom to help members find the answers to questions or concerns they have wondered about. Please send your questions to transparency@havurahshalom.org. We will anonymously answer your question in Hakol. Everyone in our community benefits from this clarity.

Havurah Zoom Rooms

To see our full Zoom room instructions, click here. Member sign-in required.

Hineinu, November 22, 2023

High Holiday Videos
By popular demand, here are links to videos of the drashot from this year's High Holidays! Thank you to Megan Koler for creating these excerpts from the main service!

"The Grave Light of Joy" - Erev Rosh Hashanah Drash by Rabbi Benjamin Barnett
"The Deeper Structures of Belonging" - Erev Yom Kippur Drash by Rabbi Benjamin Barnett
"Seeing the Demons" - Yom Kippur Drash by Rabbi Benjamin Barnett
"The Electricity Between You and Me"  - By our congregant, Yuvi

In addition to these excerpts, you can find recordings of each Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur day's entire service on our Youtube channel, along with much other amazing Havurah programming: youtube.com/@havurahshalompdx

Havurah and Tivnu on Retreat at Camp Westwind
Last month, taking advantage of a last-minute opportunity, about 20 Havurahniks joined Tivnu on a weekend retreat at Camp Westwind. We had an amazing time, of course! Havurah used to hold periodic retreats and we are looking forward to getting back to that! In the meantime, please enjoy a photo retrospective of our weekend at Westwind.

Hanukkah at Havurah Shalom - Save the Date!
* Sunday, December 10 from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm *
Juin us for an evening of Chanukah fun for everyone! All are welcome! Please RSVP. (Part of our Chanukah festivities will also be shared via Zoom. RSVP to be sent Zoom details when they are ready. And if you plan to only join via Zoom, please note that when you RSVP/register.)

Attention Retired Havurahniks!
If you are required to take a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from your retirement account (401k, 403b, etc.) this year and are looking to possibly limit paying income taxes on your RMD, consider donating all or part of your RMD to the Campaign for Havurah! While the Campaign for Havurah hasn’t officially begun, we are accepting early donations as we gear up. Donating your RMD will help the Campaign get off to a great start and it might give you a tax break. For more information about this opportunity, click here. To anyone interested in making an early donation to the Campaign for Havurah, click here.

New Adult B'nei Mitzvah Cohort Forming Now!
A new Havurah Shalom Adult B’nei Mitzvah group is forming! Are you interested in: Deepening your knowledge and commitment to Torah, Tefillah (Prayer), and Kehillah (Community)? Expanding your Jewish literacy skills, confidence, and sense of connection with Judaism? Going through this process in community and celebrating your Jewish learning in Havurah? Then…consider joining the new Adult B’nei Mitzvah cohort.  This group will study together from January 2024 to February 2026 with Havurah Education Director Deborah Eisenbach-Budner, Rabbi Benjamin, Program Director Adela Basayne, and other teachers. Click herefor more information.

The group is forming now. Be in touch with Deborah Eisenbach-Budner (deborah@havurahshalom.org) by November 30, 2023 to learn more.

General Info

Thank you for following our COVID safety guidelines for in-person gatherings, which were updated on June 15, 2023. Contacting your fellow Havurah members: If a member's name is hyperlinked below, you can go directly to their contact page in the directory by clicking on their name and then logging into your Havurah account. Or search in the online Havurah member directory (log into the website and go to the Contact tab). Zoom/YouTube stream links can be found near the end of this email.

Regular Happenings

Note: Kabbalat Shabbat will be on Friday, December 8.'
Tot Shabbat will take place on Saturday, December 9. 
 

Weekly Torah Study​ 
9 am, Saturdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Bet
An in-depth look at the weekly Torah reading, led by congregants. No prior knowledge or study is necessary.

Shabbat Morning
10 am, Saturdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
All are welcome at our Shabbat services, including b'nei mitzvah services. Upcoming b'nei mitzvah (Matan Carroll, November 25) are listed below and in the website calendar. (On December 9, there will be a Tot Shabbat at Havurah Shalom from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. RSVP for that Tot Shabbat.)

Mahjong Group
1 pm, first and third Mondays – Havurah Shalom Library
Mahjong is a fun, social activity that builds community, encouraging new friendships and cementing old ones. If you want to learn how to play, please contact Leah Hershey for teaching resources. If you are ready to join a game, please RSVP on the calendar. To receive Mahjong Group updates, ask Leah to add you to the email list.

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation
12 pm, Tuesdays – Havurah Shalom (Sanctuary or Library) and Zoom Room Bet
We gather to find moments of quiet and shalom in a welcoming space. Various styles of Jewish meditation are explored. No meditation experience necessary. All are welcome to drop in. Led by Rabbi Benjamin, Adela Basayne, Nancy Becker, or Deborah Eisenbach-Budner.

Morning Minyan
8:30 am, Wednesdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
For all who want a regular prayer practice and those saying Kaddish. All are welcome.

Upcoming Events

Office Closed/Staff Out During Thanksgiving Holiday (Thursday & Friday)
Thursday, November 23 and Friday, November 24
Our Havurah Shalom offices will be closed and staff will be unavailable during the Thursday and Friday of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Shabbat Morning with Bar Mitzvah of Matan Carroll
10 am, Saturday, November 25 – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
Please join us for Shabbat morning services, including welcoming Matan Carroll as a Bar Mitzvah and member of our community. All are welcome.

Havurah Book Group to Discuss The Dark Queens by Shelley Puhak
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Thursday Tuesday, November 28 – Zoom Room Bet
Brunhild was a foreign princess, raised to be married off for the sake of building an alliance. Her sister-in-law Fredegund started out as a lowly palace slave. And yet in sixth-century Merovingian France, where women were excluded from noble succession and royal politics was a blood sport, these two iron-willed strategists reigned over vast realms, changing the face of Europe. After the queens' deaths—one gentle, the other  horrific—their stories were rewritten, their names consigned to slander and legend. In The Dark Queens, award-winning writer Shelley Puhak sets the record straight. The Dark Queens offers proof that the relationships between women can transform the world. (Non-Fiction, 384 pages.) Discussion led by Maud Naroll. Nonmembers welcome. RSVP for Zoom info.
 

Racial Justice Movie Discussion Night: Selma
6:30 pm to 8 pm, Sunday, December 3 – Zoom Room Bet
Please join the Racial Justice Committee for a discussion of the movie Selma. (Please watch the film ahead of time; it's available on several platforms.) This is the third film in our series. Film summary: Although the Civil Rights Act of 1964 legally desegregated the South, discrimination was still rampant in certain areas, making it very difficult for Black people to register to vote. In 1965, an Alabama city became the battleground in the fight for suffrage. Despite violent opposition, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his followers pressed forward on an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, and their efforts culminated with President Lyndon Johnson signing the Voting Rights Act of 1965.  Rated PG-13, although note there are several scenes with graphic violence. Contact Kathy Gordon if you have questions. RSVP

Havurah 101: You're a Havurah Member - Now What?
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Tuesday, December 5 – Zoom Room Bet
Do you have questions about how Havurah's committee structure works?  What makes our participatory model different?  How can you connect with areas you may be interested in?  Join members of the Leadership Development Committee for a discussion to learn more about the inner works of Havurah and how you can find your place in the community.  All members welcome. RSVP

Sacred Music of Moroccan Jews
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Tuesday, December 5 – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Gimel
Eyal Bitton is the cantor at Portland's Neveh Shalom and was raised in the Moroccan Jewish community in Montreal. Through lecture and song, he will examine various elements of Moroccan sacred music—synagogue song, cantillation of sacred texts, the piyyut (liturgical poetry), and life cycle songs. Moroccan Jews have a very rich and proud religious culture, and a varied and ancient musical tradition, reflecting its Moroccan milieu, its Andalusian heritage, and more. RSVP

Winter Clothing Drive for Rose Haven: Two Contribution Opportunities 
5 pm to 6 pm, Friday, December 8 (just before the December Kabbalat Shabbat) and 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, Sunday, December 10 (during our Chanukah Celebration) – Havurah Shalom
The Havurah Poverty and Homelessness Committee will collect winter coats and other needed items for the women and non-binary folks served by the Rose Haven day shelter. There is a substantial need for community donations this winter. Thank you. Items most needed: adult women's clothing, with a particular need for larger sizes - winter coats, raincoats, waterproof pants, durable pants, waterproof shoes/ boots, hats, gloves, hand warmers, socks, BRAND NEW underwear, and blankets. Questions? Contact Gloria Halper or  Marcia Suttenberg.

Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration
6 pm Oneg; 6:30 pm Service; 7:30 pm Dinner, Friday, December 8 – Havurah Shalom (and also Zoom Room Aleph for the 6:30 pm service)
We hold Kabbalat Shabbat celebrations on the second Friday evening of each month from October through May: A family-friendly oneg followed by a service led by Rabbi Benjamin and Havurah musicians, with dinner afterward (dinner will require registration and may fill up). Free childcare is provided. All are welcome! Note: Registration for the dinner portion of the evening will open up via the calendar event page sometime next week, after the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. No RSVP is needed to join for the Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration oneg and service.

Havurah Hanukkah Celebration
4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, Sunday, December 10 – Havurah Shalom (with the last 20-30 minutes, approximately, to be joinable online as well) - Please RSVP 
All are invited to celebrate the lights of Chanukah at Havurah Shalom! Fun for adults, teens, and children alike. Bring family, friends, or just yourself! Our Chanukah celebration will include live Hanukkah music, a potluck (and a latke tasting contest!), dreidel playing, gelt, arts and crafts, gaga, storytelling, candle lighting and more! Additionally, some Hanukkah Tikkun Olam activities you may wish to participate in include a Living Lightly Gifts Table, to take and/or leave previously loved items in good condition that would be nice for someone to have as a gift (hosted by the Havurah Climate Action Team) and the Winter Clothing Donation Drive for the Rose Haven day center (hosted by the Havurah Poverty and Homelessness Committee). Click here to RSVP/learn more about our Chanukah Celebration–including the two Tikkun Olam activities. Also, Havurahniks, there will be sign-up sheets shared soon on the calendar event page and in Hineinu for helping out at the Hanukkah celebration and for bringing food to the potluck.

Havurah Instrumental Music Jam
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Monday, December 11 (second Mondays) –  Havurah Shalom (Pardes Room, near the courtyard)
Come play together in community! Bring your enthusiasm, your instrument and voice! The jams will continue monthly on the second Monday of the month. Song sheets will be provided and include a mix of Hanukkah songs, folk, Jewish and popular music. Questions? Contact Julie Walcer. RSVP

Rosh Ḥodesh Tov! Gender-Inclusive New Moon Ritual
7 pm to 8:15 pm, Wednesday, December 13 (and monthly with new moon) – RSVP for location updates and details throughout the year
A gender-inclusive New Moon group, learning and celebrating each Rosh Ḥodesh with ancient and contemporary ritual. Open to any and all genders, inviting each to connect with our closest heavenly body, the Moon. Gatherings take place monthly on or near the new moon of each Hebrew month at 7 pm, either on Zoom or in person—outdoors in inner North/East Portland—depending on seasonal shifts in the weather. Attend any or all sessions. RSVP to be updated on location and other details throughout the year.

More Tikkun Olam 

Join Metropolitan Alliance for Public Good (MACG) for a Leadership Training: Leadership Institute for Public Life!
1 pm to 5 pm, Sundays, December 3rd and December 10th - Bethel Lutheran (5658 N Denver Avenue, Portland, Oregon)
This leadership training (MACG Leadership Institute for Public Life) is available cost-free to any member of Havurah, as we are a MACG member. It is a unique opportunity designed to empower and cultivate leaders like you by equipping them with the skills and knowledge required to create a positive impact within your institutions and the broader community. We are committed to fostering a dynamic school of public life where leaders can flourish. Click here to register for the MACG Leadership Institute for Public Life. Contact Bob Brown with any questions.

Interfaith Alliance on Poverty First Thursday: Presentation from Three Faith Leaders
12 pm to 1:30 pm, Thursday, December 7 – Zoom hosted by the Interfaith Alliance on Poverty (RSVP for this event at this link - After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.)
Interfaith Alliance on Poverty First Thursday presentation will be from three of IAP faith leaders, Father Dave Zegar of St. Andrews Catholic Church, Reverend Alison Miller of First Unitarian Universalist Church and Reverend Beth Neel of Westminster Presbyterian Church will speak to us about how we can find and offer hope in our times. There will be time for Q&A following their presentations. Questions? Contact Sue Abrams.

Winter Clothing Drive for Rose Haven: Two Contribution Opportunities
5 pm to 6 pm, Friday, December 8 (just before the December Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration) and 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, Sunday, December 10 (during Havurah's Hanukkah celebration) – Havurah Shalom
The Havurah Poverty and Homelessness Committee will collect winter coats and other needed items for the women and non-binary folks served by the Rose Haven day shelter. There is a substantial need for community donations this winter. Thank you. Items most needed: adult women's clothing, with a particular need for larger sizes - winter coats, raincoats, waterproof pants, durable pants, waterproof shoes/ boots, hats, gloves, hand warmers, socks, BRAND NEW underwear, and blankets. Questions? Contact Gloria Halper or Marcia Suttenberg.
 

Living Lightly Gifts Table at the Havurah Chanukah Celebration, Hosted by the Havurah Climate Action Team (HCAT)
4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, Sunday, December 10 (during Havurah's Hanukkah celebration) – Havurah Shalom
Do you have toys, games, puzzles, jewelry, books, woven baskets, blank journals, or other items in your house that you no longer use/need, and are in good shape, that someone – child, teen or adult - might like to receive as a gift? Then bring them to the Chanukah party, and put them on one of the swap tables. Are you looking for a little gift to appreciate yourself or to give to someone else? Then come check out the swap tables at the Chanukah party. You do not have to bring an item(s) to take an item(s). All items are free for the taking! Any items left on the tables at the end of the evening will be packed up donated.

News & Events from Our Tikkun Olam Partners

Path Home (formerly PHFS): Volunteer for our monthly Path Home dinner | Interfaith Alliance on Poverty (IAP) | Lift UP | MACG | Jewish Coalition for Immigrant Justice NW ​​​​​​ | Rose Haven

Out in the Community

Bring Them Home Now: Community Gathering for the Hostages
7 pm, Saturday Tuesday, November 28 – Congregation Neveh Shalom (2900 SW Peaceful Lane, Portland, Oregon)
"The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland, in partnership with organizations across the community, is holding a community gathering to offer hope and support for the 240 hostages currently being held in Gaza. Everyone is welcome. Here is the link for those joining via Livestream. For security purposes, there will be a bag check. NO water bottles/large bags -- small bags only. Jewish Federation of Greater Portland, in partnership with Congregation Neveh Shalom and law enforcement, will create a safe event for all." - The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland

Jewish Poetry Book Club (instigated by Havurahnik Betsy Fogelman Tighe)
12:30 pm to 2 pm, Wednesday, December 6 – Eastside Jewish Commons (2420 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, Oregon)
Join for the December 6 gathering of the Jewish Poetry Book Club, instigated by but not under the tutelage of Havurahnik Betsy Fogelman Tighe. Love to read poetry? Drawn to Jewish poets writing in English, Hebrew, and Yiddish in translation? Let's lift the poetry right off the page with some communal meaning-making. The December 6 poetry selection is Avrom Sutzkever's The Full Pomegranate. Please come prepared with comments. Feel free to bring your lunch, and plan on making a small donation to EJC at each meeting. $3-10 is suggested. No one turned away for lack of funds.

Resources

Do You Need Support?
If you are facing emotional, financial, or health challenges and would welcome support, please consider contacting the (a) Bikkur Holim (Visiting the Sick) Committee for spiritual support, (b) Lotsa Helping Hands for help with food, transportation, or other errands, or (c) Rabbi Benjamin, for spiritual and moral support – benjamin@havurahshalom.org or 503-248-4662 ext. 3. If you're interested in being on a list of people who support others in concrete ways, such as grocery shopping or running other errands, please contact Lotsa Helping Hands. To request that the name of a relative or Havurah member be read during the Misheberach (healing prayer) at Shabbat services, please use this Misheberach Request Form.

Questions About Havurah?
The Transparency & Inclusivity Committee is an avenue within Havurah Shalom to help members find the answers to questions or concerns they have wondered about. Please send your questions to transparency@havurahshalom.org. We will anonymously answer your question in Hakol. Everyone in our community benefits from this clarity.

Havurah Zoom Rooms

Havurah Zoom Rooms

To see our full Zoom room instructions, click here. Member sign-in required.

Hineinu, November 8, 2023

Join Our Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration Friday, Nov. 10

A family-friendly oneg followed by a service led by Rabbi Benjamin and Havurah musicians. All are welcome. While the dinner portion (7:30 pm) of the Nov. 10 Kabbalat Shabbat event is currently full, everyone is encouraged to join for our Kabbalat Shabbat oneg (6 pm) and service (6:30 pm)! Note: If you signed up for the Nov. 10 dinner portion and want to cancel or if you couldn't sign up for dinner and want to be on a waitlist, please contact Tara Anderson (tara@havurahshalom.org).

Celebration of Life: Barry Sutton
4:30 pm, Thursday, November 16 – First Unitarian Church, in Eliot Chapel (1011 SW 12th Avenue, Portland, Oregon)
An interfaith service celebrating the life of Barry Sutton is being organized by Havurah members and people from other faith communities that he was connected to, including Quaker, Unitarian, Buddhist and Lutheran. Rabbi Benjamin and Barbara Slader will contribute Jewish prayers. Barry was an active attendee at Havurah events for over 25 years. Potluck hors d'oeuvre dishes welcome. Contact Sam Sirkin if are you a Havurahnik who would like to serve as a greeter/usher at this interfaith service. Click here to go to an obituary for Barry Sutton.

Hanukkah at Havurah Shalom - Save the Date!
Sunday, December 10 - 4:30 to 6:30 pm
Join us for an evening of Chanukah fun for everyone! All are welcome! Please RSVP

New Adult B'nei Mitzvah Cohort Forming Now!
A new Havurah Shalom Adult B’nei Mitzvah group is forming! Are you interested in: Deepening your knowledge and commitment to Torah, Tefillah (Prayer), and Kehillah (Community)? Expanding your Jewish literacy skills, confidence, and sense of connection with Judaism? Going through this process in community and celebrating your Jewish learning in Havurah? Then…consider joining the new Adult B’nei Mitzvah cohort.  This group will study together from January 2024 to February 2026 with Havurah Education Director Deborah Eisenbach-Budner, Rabbi Benjamin, Program Director Adela Basayne, and other teachers. The group is forming now. Be in touch with Deborah Eisenbach-Budner (deborah@havurahshalom.org) by November 30 to learn more. 

The Adult B’nei Mitzvah process is for people who want to nourish their intellectual and spiritual selves, individually and within the context of an ongoing learning community. One might have never become a B’nei Mitzvah or they might have had a Bar/Bat Mitzvah – in form but not in substance. There are some things that you can go back and do again (but better this time)! You will learn how to read Hebrew (or increase your knowledge), translate sections of prayers – while grappling with their spiritual and other meanings, engage a section of Torah through close translation and commentary, chant from the Torah, and navigate Shabbat services. The pre-requisites are: 1) the willingness to learn and grow, maybe in surprising ways, 2) the ability to participate on Wednesday evenings during the school year as well as participate in monthly Shabbat morning services. 

General Info

Thank you for following our COVID safety guidelines for in-person gatherings, which were updated on June 15, 2023. Contacting your fellow Havurah members: If a member's name is hyperlinked below, you can go directly to their contact page in the directory by clicking on their name and then logging into your Havurah account. Or search in the online Havurah member directory. Zoom/YouTube stream links can be found near the end of this email.

Regular Happenings

Kabbalat Shabbat is Friday, November 10.

Weekly Torah Study​ 
9 am, Saturdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Bet
An in-depth look at the weekly Torah reading, led by congregants. No prior knowledge or study is necessary.

Shabbat Morning
10 am, Saturdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
All are welcome at our Shabbat services, including b'nei mitzvah services. Upcoming b'nei mitzvah (Sidney Epstein, November 11; Matan Carroll, November 25) are listed below and in the website calendar.

Mahjong Group
1 pm, first and third Mondays – Havurah Shalom Library
Mahjong is a fun, social activity that builds community, encouraging new friendships and cementing old ones. If you want to learn how to play, please contact Leah Hershey for teaching resources. If you are ready to join a game, please RSVP on the calendar. To receive Mahjong Group updates, ask Leah to add you to the email list.

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation
12 pm, Tuesdays – Havurah Shalom (Sanctuary or Library) and Zoom Room Bet
We gather to find moments of quiet and shalom in a welcoming space. Various styles of Jewish meditation are explored. No meditation experience necessary. All are welcome to drop in. Led by Rabbi Benjamin, Adela Basayne, Nancy Becker, or Deborah Eisenbach-Budner.

Morning Minyan
8:30 am, Wednesdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
For all who want a regular prayer practice and those saying Kaddish. All are welcome.

Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration
6 pm Oneg; 6:30 pm Service; and a 7:30 pm Dinner (which is presently full), Friday, November 10 – Havurah Shalom (and also Zoom Room Aleph for the 6:30 pm service)
We hold Kabbalat Shabbat celebrations on the second Friday evening of each month from October through May: A family-friendly oneg followed by a service led by Rabbi Benjamin and Havurah musicians, with dinner afterward. Free childcare is provided. No RSVP is needed to come to the oneg or service. All are welcome! While the dinner portion (7:30 pm) of the Nov. 10 Kabbalat Shabbat event is currently full, everyone is encouraged to join for our Kabbalat Shabbat oneg (6 pm) and service (6:30 pm)! Note: If you signed up for the Nov. 10 dinner portion and want to cancel or if you couldn't sign up for dinner and want to be on a waitlist, please contact Tara Anderson at tara@havurahshalom.org.

Upcoming Events

Havurah 101: You're a Havurah Member - Now What?
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Thursday, November 9 – Havurah Shalom
Do you have questions about how Havurah's committee structure works?  What makes our participatory model different?  How can you connect with areas you may be interested in?  Join members of the Leadership Development Committee for a discussion to learn more about the inner works of Havurah and how you can find your place in the community.  All members welcome. RSVP here.

Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration
6 pm Oneg; 6:30 pm Service; and a 7:30 pm Dinner (which is presently full), Friday, November 10 – Havurah Shalom (and also Zoom Room Aleph for the 6:30 pm service)
We hold Kabbalat Shabbat celebrations on the second Friday evening of each month from October through May: A family-friendly oneg followed by a service led by Rabbi Benjamin and Havurah musicians, with dinner afterward. Free childcare is provided. No RSVP is needed to come to the oneg or service. All are welcome! While the dinner portion (7:30 pm) of the Nov. 10 Kabbalat Shabbat event is currently full, everyone is encouraged to join for our Kabbalat Shabbat oneg (6 pm) and service (6:30 pm)! Note: If you signed up for the Nov. 10 dinner portion and want to cancel or if you couldn't sign up for dinner and want to be on a waitlist, please contact Tara Anderson at tara@havurahshalom.org.

Shabbat Morning with Bat Mitzvah of Sidney Epstein
10 am, Saturday, November 11 – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
Please join us for Shabbat morning services, including welcoming Sidney Epstein as a Bat Mitzvah and member of our community. All are welcome.

Havurah Racial Justice Committee's Book Group Discussion: How the Word is Passed by Clint Smith
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Sunday, November 12 – Havurah Shalom
Please come for a lively discussion! How the Word is Passed illustrates how some of our country's most essential stories are hidden in plain view—like in downtown Manhattan, in which the brutal history of the trade of enslaved peoples has been deeply imprinted. Clint Smith's book is a landmark work of reflection and insight that offers a new understanding of the hopeful role that memory and history can play in understanding our country. Aim to read the book (How the Word is Passed) beforehand for this book group discussion. Questions? Contact Kathy Gordon or Barbara Gundle with questions. Please RSVP/sign-up as soon as possible!

Havurah Climate Action Team Book Group: Under the Sky We Make (Chapters 8 to 10)
5 pm to 6:30 pm, Monday, November 13 – Havurah Shalom (subsequent meetings set to be on Zoom)
All Havurah members are welcome to become part of the HCAT Book Group as we go through each chapter of our next book addressing the climate crisis, Under the Sky We Make, by climate scientist Kimberly Nicholas, PhD. In this best-selling book, Dr. Nicholas offers a hopeful, clear-eyed, and sometimes hilarious guide to affecting real change. Questions? Contact  Michael Heumann. Click to RSVP for the November 13 meeting and learn about subsequent meetings.

Havurah Music Jam Begins Again
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Monday, November 13 (and every second Monday of the month) – Havurah Shalom (in Pardes, a room to the left of the Havurah entrance)
Come play together in community! Bring your enthusiasm, and your instrument! Jams will be held the Second Monday of the month, starting Monday, November 13th. Song sheets will be provided and include a mix of folk, Jewish and popular music. RSVP for the November 13 jam session.

Steering Committee Meeting
6:30 pm, Tuesday, November 14 – Zoom Room Gimel
All Havurah members are invited to attend the monthly meetings of the Havurah Steering Committee.

Rosh Ḥodesh Tov! Gender-Inclusive New Moon Ritual
7 pm to 8:15 pm, Tuesday, November 14 (and monthly with new moon) – RSVP for location updates and details throughout the year
A gender-inclusive New Moon group, learning and celebrating each Rosh Ḥodesh with ancient and contemporary ritual. Open to any and all genders, inviting each to connect with our closest heavenly body, the Moon. Gatherings take place monthly on or near the new moon of each Hebrew month at 7 pm, either on Zoom or in person—outdoors in inner North/East Portland—depending on seasonal shifts in the weather. Attend any or all sessions. RSVP to be updated on location and other details throughout the year.

Workshop: Discussing and Writing Poems of Strong Emotional States
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Tuesday, November 14 – Havurah Shalom
We will read and discuss poems by masters who have written about strong emotional states, such as Anne Sexton, Robert Lowell, Hannah Bloch, Edward Hirsch, Yehuda Amichai and Ross Gay. Handout will be provided. We will write first drafts, and share what we have written or discuss our process. Led by Willa Schneberg. RSVP

Rumble on the River Community Forum Panel and Action Night #10: Stop Zenith Energy
6:30 pm to 8 pm (doors open for tabling at 6 pm; program begins at 6:30 pm), Thursday, November 16 – Havurah Shalom and Special Zoom Room
The Havurah Climate Action Team (HCAT) is hosting another Rumble on the River Community Forum. This Rumble’s panel discussion is on the upcoming DEQ (Department of Environmental Quality) decision regarding Zenith Energy’s Air Quality Permit. Without the permit Zenith will not be able to operate and pollute our air. Afterwards, we’ll be guided in a Writing Effective Comments Workshop, and write a letter to Governor Kotek. Panelists are Bob Sallinger - Urban Conservation Director with Willamette Riverkeeper, Kate Murphy - Community Organizer with Columbia Riverkeeper, Nick Caleb - Climate and Energy Attorney with Breach Collective. Click here for the event flyer. Feel free to come to the event in person at Havurah without RSVPing--all are welcome--but if you want to be emailed Zoom login details before the event, please RSVP.

Hakol Submission Deadline: Tuesday, November 21
Havurahniks, click here to learn more on submitting short articles for the next issue of our monthly synagogue newsletter, Hakol.

Office Closed/Staff Out During Thanksgiving Holiday (Thursday & Friday)
Thursday, November 23 and Friday, November 24
Our Havurah Shalom offices will be closed and staff will be unavailable during the Thursday and Friday of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Shabbat Morning with Bar Mitzvah of Matan Carroll
10 am, Saturday, November 25 – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
Please join us for Shabbat morning services, including welcoming Matan Carroll as a Bar Mitzvah and member of our community. All are welcome.

Havurah Book Group to Discuss The Dark Queens by Shelley Puhak
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Thursday, November 28 – Zoom Room Bet
Brunhild was a foreign princess, raised to be married off for the sake of building an alliance. Her sister-in-law Fredegund started out as a lowly palace slave. And yet in sixth-century Merovingian France, where women were excluded from noble succession and royal politics was a blood sport, these two iron-willed strategists reigned over vast realms, changing the face of Europe. After the queens' deaths—one gentle, the other  horrific—their stories were rewritten, their names consigned to slander and legend. In The Dark Queens, award-winning writer Shelley Puhak sets the record straight. The Dark Queens offers proof that the relationships between women can transform the world. (Non-Fiction, 384 pages.) Discussion led by Maud Naroll. Nonmembers welcome. RSVP for Zoom info.

More Tikkun Olam 

Rumble on the River Community Forum Panel and Action Night #10: Stop Zenith Energy
6:30 pm to 8 pm (doors open for tabling at 6 pm; program begins at 6:30 pm), Thursday, November 16 – Havurah Shalom and Special Zoom Room
The Havurah Climate Action Team (HCAT) is hosting another Rumble on the River Community Forum. This Rumble’s panel discussion is on the upcoming DEQ (Department of Environmental Quality) decision regarding Zenith Energy’s Air Quality Permit. Click here for the event flyer. Feel free to come to the event in person at Havurah without RSVPing--all are welcome--but if you want to be emailed Zoom login details before the event, please RSVP.

News & Events from Our Tikkun Olam Partners

Path Home (formerly PHFS): Volunteer for our monthly Path Home dinner | Interfaith Alliance on Poverty (IAP) | Lift UP | MACG | Jewish Coalition for Immigrant Justice NW ​​​​​​ | Rose Haven

Out in the Community

Jewish Community Orchestra: Fall Concert
3 pm, Sunday, November 12 – Mittelman Jewish Community Center (6651 SW Capitol Highway, Portland, Oregon)
See the Jewish Community Orchestra perform their 2023 Fall Concert. Click hereto learn more about this upcoming performance. Tickets are available at the door (General Admission: $15; Senior Citizens: $10; Students: $8).

Drawing Upon What is Hidden: An Evening of Stories with Maggidahs

7 pm to 8:30 pm, Saturday, November 18 – Eastside Jewish Commons (2420 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland, Oregon)
This evening of stories features two Havurahniks, Cassandra Sagan and David Fuks. This event is part of the Eastside Jewish Commons' Crypto-Judaism Storytelling week. Maggidahs (Jewish Storytellers), Cassandra Sagan and Gail Pasternack along with improviser and stand-up comedian David Fuks present an evening of storytelling on the theme of What is Hidden. And afterwards YOU get to tell your stories! Sign up to deliver a personal story or even a traditional/folk tale on the theme (5 minute limit). All Ages $6-$18/Person Sliding Scale. Click here to learn more and get tickets. (Or visit the Nov. 18 event page on the EJC calendar.)

An Hour of Jewish Stories: Laughter and Tears Encore (for adults)
3 pm to 4 pm, Sunday, November 19 – Eastside Jewish Commons (2420 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland, Oregon)
Havurahnik Sarah Stein is a professional storyteller and founder of the Portland Storytellers Guild. Born in New York City in 1944, Sarah Stein loves telling Jewish stories filled with irony and the special Jewish sense of humor. She said this about Laughter and Tears Encore: "There will be lots of new exciting stories from Chelm, King Solomon and a longer tale of a trickster and a miser. Plus many more stories from the wealth of Jewish folklore. There will also be music between the stories." Note that this show is for adults only. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors pre-sale; $17 and $12 at the door. Click here to register and get tickets in advance. (Or visit the Nov. 19 event page on the EJC calendar.)

Jewish Poetry Book Club (instigated by Havurahnik Betsy Fogelman Tighe)
12:30 pm to 2 pm, Wednesday, December 6 – Eastside Jewish Commons (2420 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, Oregon)
Join for the December 6 gathering of the Jewish Poetry Book Club, instigated by but not under the tutelage of Havurahnik Betsy Fogelman Tighe. Love to read poetry? Drawn to Jewish poets writing in English, Hebrew, and Yiddish in translation? Let's lift the poetry right off the page with some communal meaning-making. The December 6 poetry selection is Avrom Sutzkever's The Full Pomegranate. Please come prepared with comments. Feel free to bring your lunch, and plan on making a small donation to EJC at each meeting. $3-10 is suggested. No one turned away for lack of funds.

Resources

Do You Need Support?
If you are facing emotional, financial, or health challenges and would welcome support, please consider contacting the (a) Bikkur Holim (Visiting the Sick) Committee for spiritual support, (b) Lotsa Helping Hands for help with food, transportation, or other errands, or (c) Rabbi Benjamin, for spiritual and moral support – benjamin@havurahshalom.org or 503-248-4662 ext. 3. If you're interested in being on a list of people who support others in concrete ways, such as grocery shopping or running other errands, please contact Lotsa Helping Hands. To request that the name of a relative or Havurah member be read during the Misheberach (healing prayer) at Shabbat services, please use this Misheberach Request Form.

Questions About Havurah?
The Transparency & Inclusivity Committee is an avenue within Havurah Shalom to help members find the answers to questions or concerns they have wondered about. Please send your questions to transparency@havurahshalom.org. We will anonymously answer your question in Hakol. Everyone in our community benefits from this clarity.

Havurah Zoom Rooms

To see our full Zoom room instructions, click here. Member sign-in required.

Hineinu, October 26, 2023

Not Losing Sight of the Human Face
 
Dear friends,

As I take in the ongoing suffering, I return again and again to what has become for me a sort of grounding verse: Don't lose sight of the human face. Amidst all our anger and analyses, our condemnations and fear, to not forget the millions of human faces bearing the pain of this tragedy.

(Please click here to read the rest of Rabbi Benjamin’s message.)

Join Our Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration Friday, Nov. 10

A family-friendly oneg followed by a service led by Rabbi Benjamin and Havurah musicians. All are welcome.
RSVP for the dinner (if you want to join for that part of the evening).
Sign up to volunteer with your fellow Havurahniks. Most shifts are 15 minutes.

Talking about Israel & Palestine with Children
Click here for some suggested resources for parents, children, and others trying to understand and talk about the situation, as well as a list of just some of the charitable organizations you may wish to consider supporting at this time.

 

Now Hiring: Zoom Host
Havurah is hiring a Zoom host to manage the tech side of online gatherings, providing smooth and welcoming experiences for online attendees. Typical schedule consists of Shabbats and holidays, occasional other special events, usually 2-3 hours at a time. You will share the schedule with our other Zoom host, and you will choose the dates you wish to work or have off. Work is from home or onsite at Havurah. A laptop is available to use at Havurah. Training will be provided. Pays $40/hr. Please contact Rachel Pollak (rachel@havurahshalom.org). 

General Info

Thank you for following our COVID safety guidelines for in-person gatherings, which were updated on June 15, 2023.
 

Havurah members: If a member's name is hyperlinked below, you can go directly to their contact page in the directory by clicking on their name and then logging into your Havurah account. Or search in the online Havurah member directory.

Zoom/YouTube stream links can be found near the end of this email.

Regular Happenings

Note: Tot Shabbat will take place on Saturday, November 4. Kabbalat Shabbat is Friday, November 10.

Weekly Torah Study​ 
9 am, Saturdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Bet
An in-depth look at the weekly Torah reading, led by congregants. No prior knowledge or study is necessary.

Shabbat Morning
10 am, Saturdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
All are welcome at our Shabbat services, including b'nei mitzvah services. Upcoming b'nei mitzvah (Leo Seidman, October 28; Sidney Epstein, November 11) are listed below and in the website calendar. (On November 4, there will be a Tot Shabbat at Havurah Shalom from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. RSVP for that Tot Shabbat.)

Mahjong Group
1 pm, first and third Mondays – Havurah Shalom Library
Mahjong is a fun, social activity that builds community, encouraging new friendships and cementing old ones. If you want to learn how to play, please contact Leah Hershey for teaching resources. If you are ready to join a game, please RSVP on the calendar. To receive Mahjong Group updates, ask Leah to add you to the email list.

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation
12 pm, Tuesdays – Havurah Shalom (Sanctuary or Library) and Zoom Room Bet
We gather to find moments of quiet and shalom in a welcoming space. Various styles of Jewish meditation are explored. No meditation experience necessary. All are welcome to drop in. Led by Rabbi Benjamin, Adela Basayne, Nancy Becker, or Deborah Eisenbach-Budner.

Morning Minyan
8:30 am, Wednesdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
For all who want a regular prayer practice and those saying Kaddish. All are welcome.

Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration
6 pm Oneg; 6:30 pm Service; 7:30 pm Dinner, Friday, November 10 – Havurah Shalom (and also Zoom Room Aleph for the 6:30 pm service)
We hold Kabbalat Shabbat celebrations on the second Friday evening of each month from October through May: A family-friendly oneg followed by a service led by Rabbi Benjamin and Havurah musicians, with dinner afterward. Free childcare is provided. No RSVP is needed to come to the oneg or service. All are welcome! Be sure to RSVP for the dinner (if you want to join for that part of the evening). And sign up to volunteer with your fellow Havurahniks. Most shifts are 15 minutes.

Upcoming Events

Shabbat Morning with Bar Mitzvah of Leo Seidman
10 am, Saturday, October 28 – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
Please join us for Shabbat morning services, including welcoming Leo Seidman as a Bar Mitzvah and member of our community. All are welcome.

Meeting of the Proposed Committee for Palestinian Justice
7 pm, Sunday, October 29 - Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Bet
From the group working to establish a Committee for Palestinian Justice at Havurah: The (proposed) Committee for Palestinian Justice is holding a general hybrid meeting on Sunday at 7. An advocacy work group has been meeting to formulate ideas that will be presented to the Steering Committee. Many excellent ideas have been proposed. These ideas will be discussed and voted on. During this time of crisis, it is more important than ever that we advocate for justice for Palestinians. We hope you will attend and share your ideas. Note: Havurah members only please. Contact  David Newman with questions about this event. RSVP ​​​​​​

Tot Shabbat
10:30 am to 11:30 am, Saturday, November 4 – Havurah Shalom
Young children (0-5) and parents celebrate with singing, movement, blessings, and storytelling. All are welcome. RSVP

The Naked Room, by Willa Schneberg: A Synthesis of the Life of a Poet and Psychotherapist with Discussant Frances Payne Adler
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Tuesday, November 7 – Havurah Shalom and Special Zoom Room
In this time of mental health crisis among youth and adults, as well among the houseless, Willa's new poetry collection, The Naked Room, illuminates such issues pertaining to mental health. These are poems of the unconscious, the dreamscape, the despondent, the unmoored and the mortal. RSVP

Learn about Chevra Kadisha
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Tuesday, November 7 – Zoom Room Gimel
The Ma'avar Committee is hosting an evening discussion with David Lewis on the ritual and practices of Chevra Kadisha. A chevra kadisha is a group who perform the traditional Jewish ritual of preparing individuals for burial. David will share information then facilitate conversation including questions and answers. RSVP

What Chappened to Chanukah? (Registration deadline: November 4)
12:30 pm to 1:45 pm, Wednesdays, November 8, 15, and 29 – Havurah Shalom
We’ll look into the contentious historical roots of Chanukah—religious pluralism, fanaticism, nationalism, spiritual renewal, cultural and gastronomical adaptation to name a few!—and how the holiday evolved over time, in different communities. We’ll explore how we can be part of that evolution, interpreting Chanukah in rituals and meanings that will speak to us today. Led by Deborah Eisenbach-Budner.
Contact Deborah Eisenbach-Budner (deborah@havurahshalom.org) with any questions. All three sessions will be take place in person at Havurah Shalom. RSVP by the registration deadline: November 4.

Havurah 101
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Thursday, November 9 – Havurah Shalom
Join members of the Havurah Leadership Development Committee to learn more about our unique community and the ways we all support each other in our participatory culture. All members are welcome to join us! RSVP

Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration
6 pm Oneg; 6:30 pm Service; 7:30 pm Dinner, Friday, November 10 – Havurah Shalom (and also Zoom Room Aleph for the 6:30 pm service)
A family-friendly oneg followed by a service led by Rabbi Benjamin and Havurah musicians, with dinner afterward. Free childcare is provided. No RSVP is needed to come to the oneg or service. All are welcome! Be sure to RSVP for the dinner (if you want to join for that part of the evening). And sign up to volunteer with your fellow Havurahniks. Most shifts are 15 minutes.

Shabbat Morning with Bat Mitzvah of Sidney Epstein
10 am, Saturday, November 11 – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
Please join us for Shabbat morning services, including welcoming Sidney Epstein as a Bat Mitzvah and member of our community. All are welcome.

Havurah Racial Justice Committee's Book Group Discussion: How the Word is Passed by Clint Smith
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Sunday, November 12 – Havurah Shalom
Please come for a lively discussion! How the Word is Passed illustrates how some of our country's most essential stories are hidden in plain view—like in downtown Manhattan, in which the brutal history of the trade of enslaved peoples has been deeply imprinted. Clint Smith's book is a landmark work of reflection and insight that offers a new understanding of the hopeful role that memory and history can play in understanding our country. Aim to read the book (How the Word is Passed) beforehand for this book group discussion. Questions? Contact Kathy Gordon or Barbara Gundle with questions. Please RSVP/sign-up as soon as possible!

Havurah Music Jam Begins Again
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Monday, November 13 (and every second Monday of the month) - Havurah Shalom (in Pardes, a room to the left of the Havurah entrance)
Come play together in community! Bring your enthusiasm, and your instrument! Jams will be held the Second Monday of the month, starting Monday, November 13th. Song sheets will be provided and include a mix of folk, Jewish and popular music. RSVP for the November 13th jam session.

Steering Committee Meeting
6:30 pm, Tuesday, November 14 – Zoom Room Gimel
All Havurah members are invited to attend the monthly meetings of the Havurah Steering Committee.

Rosh Ḥodesh Tov! Gender-Inclusive New Moon Ritual
7 pm to 8:15 pm, Tuesday, November 14 (and monthly with new moon) – RSVP for location updates and details throughout the year
A gender-inclusive New Moon group, learning and celebrating each Rosh Ḥodesh with ancient and contemporary ritual. Open to any and all genders, inviting each to connect with our closest heavenly body, the Moon. Gatherings take place monthly on or near the new moon of each Hebrew month at 7 pm, either on Zoom or in person—outdoors in inner North/East Portland—depending on seasonal shifts in the weather. Attend any or all sessions. RSVP to be updated on location and other details throughout the year.

Workshop: Discussing and Writing Poems of Strong Emotional States
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Tuesday, November 14, 2023 – Havurah Shalom
We will read and discuss poems by masters who have written about strong emotional states, such as Anne Sexton, Robert Lowell, Hannah Bloch, Edward Hirsch, Yehuda Amichai and Ross Gay. Handout will be provided. We will write first drafts, and share what we have written or discuss our process. Led by Willa Schneberg. RSVP

More Tikkun Olam 

October Newsletter for Jewish Coalition for Immigrant Justice
Immigrant justice opportunities abound this fall. Read about them in the Jewish Coalition for Immigrant Justice October newsletter. Keep In touch with the Jewish Coalition for Immigrant Justice NW at jcij.nw@gmail.com.

Rose City Dayenu Circle meeting (a Jewish call to climate action)
5 pm to 6:30 pm, Sunday, October 29 – Eastside Jewish Commons (2420 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland, Oregon)
Havurah's Climate Action Team (HCAT), a member of the Rose City Dayenu Circle invites you to join in a Jewish call to climate action. This group is a local chapter of the national organization Dayenu (dayenu.org). We plan to meet on the last Sunday of each month and collaborate to take both locally relevant climate action as well as support the actions proposed by the national organization. Come join us to learn more and connect with others who are ready to make a difference together. To let HCAT know you would like to join for this event, please email Havurahnik Judi Soloway; your RSVP is appreciated but not required.

Interfaith Alliance on Poverty First Thursday (November 2, ft. Dan Field)
12 pm, Thursday, November 2 – Zoom hosted by the Interfaith Alliance on Poverty (register with the Interfaith Alliance on Poverty here to get the Zoom details from them)
The Interfaith Alliance on Poverty First Thursday speaker is Dan Field, recently appointed Director of the Joint Office of Homeless Services (JOHS). Mr. Field comes to that position from a long history in bridging health and housing, and a commitment to making that office all that it is intended to be. To learn more about the challenges and opportunities for JOHS, click on this link to the findings in the recent audit completed at the request of the IAP's speaker. Register in advance for this event via this link provided by the Interfaith Alliance on Poverty. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email from the Interfaith Alliance on Poverty containing information about joining the Nov. 2 meeting.

News & Events from Our Tikkun Olam Partners

Path Home (formerly PHFS): Volunteer for our monthly Path Home dinner | Interfaith Alliance on Poverty (IAP) | Lift UP | MACG | Jewish Coalition for Immigrant Justice NW ​​​​​​ | Rose Haven

Out in the Community

An Hour of Jewish Stories: Laughter and Tears Encore (for adults)
3 pm to 4 pm, Sunday, November 19 –  Eastside Jewish Commons (2420 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland, Oregon)
Havurahnik Sarah Stein is a professional storyteller and founder of the Portland Storytellers Guild. Born in New York City in 1944, Sarah Stein loves telling Jewish stories filled with irony and the special Jewish sense of humor. She said this about Laughter and Tears Encore: "There will be lots of new exciting stories from Chelm, King Solomon and a longer tale of a trickster and a miser. Plus many more stories from the wealth of Jewish folklore. There will also be music between the stories." Note that this show is for adults only. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors pre-sale; $17 and $12 at the door. Click here to register and get tickets in advance.

Resources

Do You Need Support?
If you are facing emotional, financial, or health challenges and would welcome support, please consider contacting the (a) Bikkur Holim (Visiting the Sick) Committee for spiritual support, (b) Lotsa Helping Hands for help with food, transportation, or other errands, or (c) Rabbi Benjamin, for spiritual and moral support – benjamin@havurahshalom.org or 503-248-4662 ext. 3. If you're interested in being on a list of people who support others in concrete ways, such as grocery shopping or running other errands, please contact Lotsa Helping Hands. To request that the name of a relative or Havurah member be read during the Misheberach (healing prayer) at Shabbat services, please use this Misheberach Request Form.

Questions About Havurah?
The Transparency & Inclusivity Committee is an avenue within Havurah Shalom to help members find the answers to questions or concerns they have wondered about. Please send your questions to transparency@havurahshalom.org. We will anonymously answer your question in Hakol. Everyone in our community benefits from this clarity.

Havurah Zoom Rooms

To see our full Zoom room instructions, click here. Member sign-in required.

Hineinu, October 11, 2023

 

A Gathering for Prayer and Support
This Saturday, October 14, 6:30 to 8 pm
At Havurah, and also accessible via Zoom Room Aleph
In this painful moment, we will come together at Havurah to connect and support one another. We are collectively holding so many emotions — fear, anger, grief, despair, and others — and they will all be welcome as we gather. We will pray for our fellow Jews in Israel, including many family and loved ones of Havurah members, and for the people of Gaza — honoring the humanity and the suffering of every innocent person caught in this nightmare. The evening will include Havdalah, followed by silence, song and poetry, and space for anyone who wants to share from our hearts and experience in this tragic and frightening time. 

Being with/Talking with Our Children in a Time Like This
Saturday, 3:10 to 4:30 pm, during Shabbat School, at Havurah
Are you a parent or grandparent (with children of any age) who is sorting out your own feelings and thoughts about the tragic human story unfolding for Israelis and Palestinians right now, while also figuring out how to be with your children? Please join together for support, sharing resources, and community, Saturday, during Shabbat School, at Havurah.

Kabbalat Shabbat Returns on Friday, October 13
We hope to see you this Friday evening for our Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration.
All are welcome to come to Havurah Shalom or to join via Zoom Room Aleph.

Note: Only the dinner portion of the evening (7:30 pm) requires an RSVP/registration—and we expect to be full to capacity with dinner registrations very soon. No RSVP/registration is needed to join for our oneg (6pm) or our lively, family-friendly service, led by Rabbi Benjamin and Havurah musicians (6:30 pm); you can just show up in person or on Zoom to usher in Shabbat together.

Click on the link to sign up to volunteer with your fellow Havurahniks during Kabbalat Shabbat.

 

Reminder Regarding Safety Guidelines
We are aware that there has been an increase in the number of Covid cases in Oregon and in our Havurah community. If you are experiencing any respiratory symptoms, please do not attend Havurah events in person. Our most important safety guideline remains: "Feeling Sick? Stay home!" We encourage you to get your Covid booster, influenza vaccine, and RSV vaccine, all of which are now available. Our official Safety Guidelines can be found on our website here.

Questions or concerns? Contact Loree Devery, Chair of the Covid Management Team.

Please Complete the High Holidays Survey ASAP
If you haven't done so already, please click here to take the Havurah Shalom High Holidays 5784 Survey (Appoximate time: 15 minutes. Skip any questions you don't want to answer.) Your feedback will give us insight into Havurahniks' different experiences and help us improve next year.

General Info

Thank you for following our COVID safety guidelines for in-person gatherings, which were updated on June 15, 2023.
 

Havurah members: If a member's name is hyperlinked below, you can go directly to their contact page in the directory by clicking on their name and then logging into your Havurah account. Or search in the online Havurah member directory.

Zoom/YouTube stream links can be found near the end of this email.

Regular Happenings

Notes: Jewish Mindfulness and Meditation is now hybrid every Tuesday.
Mah Jong Group has returned!
Kabbalat Shabbat returns on Friday, October 13.
Tot Shabbat will take place on Saturday, October 14.

Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration

6 pm, second Fridays, October to May – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
A family-friendly oneg followed by a service led by Rabbi Benjamin and Havurah musicians, with dinner afterward. 6 pm Oneg, 6:30 Service, 7:30 Dinner. All are welcome! Note: The dinner portion requires RSVPing on the calendar and will likely be full to capacity. The oneg and service portions of our Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration don't require any RSVP/registration, and we hope all will come together to usher in Shabbat. Havurahniks, click here to go to the volunteer sign-up for the October 2023 Kabbalat Shabbat.

Weekly Torah Study​ 
9 am, Saturdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Bet
An in-depth look at the weekly Torah reading, led by congregants. No prior knowledge or study is necessary.

Shabbat Morning
10 am, Saturdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
All are welcome at our Shabbat services, including b'nei mitzvah services. Upcoming b'nei mitzvah (Nathan Zahm, October 21; Leo Seidman, October 28) are listed below and in the website calendar. (On October 14, there will be a Tot Shabbat starting at 10:30 am.)

Mahjong Group
1 pm, first and third Mondays – Havurah Shalom Library
Mahjong is a fun, social activity that builds community, encouraging new friendships and cementing old ones. If you want to learn how to play, please contact Leah Hershey for teaching resources. If you are ready to join a game, please RSVP on the calendar. To receive Mahjong Group updates, ask Leah to add you to the email list. (Mahjong Group has now resumed meeting.)

Jewish Mindfulness & Meditation
12 pm, Tuesdays – Havurah Shalom (Sanctuary or Library) and Zoom Room Bet
We gather to find moments of quiet and shalom in a welcoming space. Various styles of Jewish meditation are explored. No meditation experience necessary. All are welcome to drop in. Led by Rabbi Benjamin, Adela Basayne, Nancy Becker, or Deborah Eisenbach-Budner. (Starting in October, Jewish Mindfulness and Meditation will be both in person at Havurah Shalom and on Zoom every Tuesday.)

Morning Minyan
8:30 am, Wednesdays – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
For all who want a regular prayer practice and those saying Kaddish. All are welcome.

Upcoming Events

Racial Justice Committee Monthly Meeting
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Thursday, October 12 – Zoom Room Bet
Come join us for our monthly Racial Justice Committee meeting to learn what we have been up to and find out ways you can engage with the work of this committee.

Kabbalat Shabbat Celebration
6 pm, Friday, October 13 – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
A family-friendly oneg followed by a service led by Rabbi Benjamin and Havurah musicians, with dinner afterward. 6 pm Oneg, 6:30 Service, 7:30 Dinner. All are welcome! (Just for the dinner portion, registration on the calendar is required, and we may be at capacity for dinner very soon. No registration or RSVP is needed to join our oneg or services. We hope to be with everyone to usher in Shabbat this Friday evening.) Havurahniks, click here to go to the volunteer sign-up for the October 13 Kabbalat Shabbat.

Tot Shabbat
10:30 am to 11:30 am, Saturday, October 14 – Havurah Shalom
Young children (0-5) and parents celebrate with singing, movement, blessings, and storytelling. All are welcome.

Being with/Talking with Our Children in a Time Like This
3:10 pm to 4:30 pm, Saturday, October 14 (during Shabbat School) – Havurah Shalom
Are you a parent or grandparent (with children of any age) who is sorting out your own feelings and thoughts about the tragic human story unfolding for Israelis and Palestinians right now, while also figuring out how to be with your children? Please join together for support, sharing resources, and community, Saturday, during Shabbat School, at Havurah.

A Gathering for Prayer and Support
6:30 pm to 8 pm, Saturday, October 14 – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
In this painful moment, we will come together at Havurah to connect and support one another. We are collectively holding so many emotions — fear, anger, grief, despair, and others — and they will all be welcome as we gather. We will pray for our fellow Jews in Israel, including many family and loved ones of Havurah members, and for the people of Gaza — honoring the humanity and the suffering of every innocent person caught in this nightmare. The evening will include Havdalah, followed by silence, song and poetry, and space for anyone who wants to share from our hearts and experience in this tragic and frightening time. 

Havurah Climate Action Team Book Group (Under the Sky We Make, Ch. 2 & 3)
All Havurah members are welcome to become part of the HCAT Book Group as we go through each chapter of our next book addressing the climate crisis, Under the Sky We Make, by climate scientist Kimberly Nicholas, PhD. In this best-selling book, Dr. Nicholas offers a hopeful, clear-eyed, and sometimes hilarious guide to affecting real change. For the October 16 meeting, please aim to read Chapters 2 and 3. Future book group sessions for Under the Sky We Make will usually take place on the first and third Mondays of each month. Questions? Contact Michael Heumann.

Rosh Ḥodesh Tov! Gender-Inclusive New Moon Ritual
7 pm to 8:15 pm, Monday, October 16 – In person in North Portland or in Zoom Room Heh (Leader will announce which.)
A gender-inclusive New Moon group, learning and celebrating each Rosh Ḥodesh with ancient and contemporary ritual. Open to any and all genders, inviting each to connect with our closest heavenly body, the Moon. Attend any or all sessions.
RSVP to be updated on location and other details throughout the year.

Occupation 101
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Mondays, October 16, 23, 30; November 13, 20, 27; December 4, 11 – Havurah Shalom
Israel has been engaged in a military occupation of the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip for 56 years, since the 1967 Arab-Israeli War. Explore key questions in this eight-week, mainly film-based class. Course participants will watch the films at home and come together in person each week for a contextual lecture and discussion of the films. Taught by Joel Beinin. RSVP

Shabbat Morning with Bar Mitzvah of Nathan Zahm
10 am, Saturday, October 21 – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
Please join us for Shabbat morning services, including welcoming Nathan Zahm as a Bar Mitzvah and member of our community. All are welcome.

Havurah Climate Action Team (HCAT) Monthly Meeting
5:30 pm, Monday, October 23 – Zoom Room Gimel 
Join the Havurah Climate Action Team's monthly meeting.

Havurah Book Group - Comrades and Chicken Ranchers: The Story of a California Jewish Community by Kenneth Kann
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Tuesday, October 24 – Zoom Room Bet
During the heyday of the kibbutz movement, several leftie communities formed in California and New Jersey to practice the Kibbutz lifestyle, sort of. Kenneth Kann, an oral historian who interviewed more than 200 of the former members of this California commune, presents three generations talking about being radical chicken ranchers, their Yiddish cultural life, and their intense political commitments and conflicts. By juxtaposing often opposite views of the same situation, the interviews come alive, and on the whole, it's a pretty amusing and also honest look at a radical Jewish community. Discussion led by Havurah's Holly Hoffnung. Nonmembers welcome. RSVP for Zoom info.

Shabbat Morning with Bar Mitzvah of Leo Seidman
10 am, Saturday, October 28 – Havurah Shalom and Zoom Room Aleph
Please join us for Shabbat morning services, including welcoming Leo Seidman as a Bar Mitzvah and member of our community. All are welcome.

Save the Date/Sign Up: Havurah Racial Justice Committee Book Discussion How the Word is Passed by Clint Smith
7 pm to 8:30 pm, Sunday, November 12 – Havurah Shalom
Please come for a lively discussion! How the Word is Passed illustrates how some of our country's most essential stories are hidden in plain view—like in downtown Manhattan, in which the brutal history of the trade of enslaved peoples has been deeply imprinted. Clint Smith's book is a landmark work of reflection and insight that offers a new understanding of the hopeful role that memory and history can play in understanding our country. Questions? Contact Kathy Gordon or Barbara Gundle. RSVP

More Tikkun Olam 

News & Events from Our Tikkun Olam Partners

Path Home (formerly PHFS): Volunteer for our monthly Path Home dinner | Interfaith Alliance on Poverty (IAP) | Lift UP | MACG | Jewish Coalition for Immigrant Justice NW ​​​​​​ | Rose Haven

Out in the Community

Coming to Portland in October: theatre dybbuk
From the theatre dybbuk website: “theatre dybbuk creates provocative performances and innovative educational encounters that explore Jewish thought to illuminate universal human experience. We envision a world where people challenge themselves to revel in the complexity of our shared humanity.” There should be a wide array of opportunities for engagement with theatre dybbuk. Information about upcoming residencies with theatre dybbuk can be found here.

Oregon Jewish Voices Reading
6:30 pm to 7:45 pm, Tuesday, October 17 – Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education (724 NW Davis Street, Portland)
Come to the 24th annual reading of "Oregon Jewish Voices" at OJMCHE! Oregon Jewish Voices will be LIVE this year. Kerry Cohen, William Deresiewicz, Miriam Gershow, Marvin J. Lurie and Willa Schneberg will be reading. To learn more and register for this event, click here. Tickets cost $8 for members of OJMCHE and $10 for non-members. Registration is required to attend this annual reading of Oregon Jewish Voices. Questions? Contact Havurahnik Willa Schneberg.

MONUMENT Film Showing for One Night Only (with Filmmaker Q & A)
7:15 pm, Wednesday, October 18 - Cinema 21 (616 NW 21st Avenue, Portland, Oregon)
For one show only, and with the filmmaker staying for a post-film Q & A, Cinema 21 will host a special screening of MONUMENT in community partnership with the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education. Filmmaker Michael Turner (The Way We Talk) documents his first visit to a Holocaust memorial created by his grandmother Lici, a Hungarian Jew whose parents and sister were killed in Auschwitz. The resulting personal documentary is a powerful and poetic story of two relatives meeting through time and space to carry their family memory forward. (75 minute film + filmmaker Q&A afterward.) For the trailer and more, click here (or go straight  here for ticket purchases, $12 general, $10 students/seniors).

Resources

Do You Need Support?
If you are facing emotional, financial, or health challenges and would welcome support, please consider contacting the (a) Bikkur Holim (Visiting the Sick) Committee for spiritual support, (b) Lotsa Helping Hands for help with food, transportation, or other errands, or (c) Rabbi Benjamin, for spiritual and moral support – benjamin@havurahshalom.org or 503-248-4662 ext. 3. If you're interested in being on a list of people who support others in concrete ways, such as grocery shopping or running other errands, please contact Lotsa Helping Hands. To request that the name of a relative or Havurah member be read during the Misheberach (healing prayer) at Shabbat services, please use this Misheberach Request Form.

Questions About Havurah?
The Transparency & Inclusivity Committee is an avenue within Havurah Shalom to help members find the answers to questions or concerns they have wondered about. Please send your questions to transparency@havurahshalom.org. We will anonymously answer your question in Hakol. Everyone in our community benefits from this clarity.

Havurah Zoom Rooms​​​​​​​

To see our full Zoom room instructions, click here. Member sign-in required.