tag:www.emjc.org,2010://1 2010-03-04T04:21:42Z Come on in and find out what's going on at EMJC! Movable Type 3.33 tag:www.emjc.org,2010://1.125 2010-03-04T04:21:03Z 2010-03-04T04:21:42Z

The after-school swim program at EMJC began on Monday. This program is from kids - beginner, intermediate or advanced - from grades 1-8. Swim classes meet only on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:30pm - 5:30pm. There is still time to...

Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:30pm - 5:30pm. There is still time to join! For more information, call the Center office. Tell your children and grandchildren to take advantage of this wonderful program. ]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2010://1.124 2010-02-25T20:59:03Z 2010-02-25T20:59:53Z

To one and all, Please join Sisterhood, Special Events, Room J and Tots to Teens for a Megillah reading on Saturday, February 27th at 6:45 PM, followed by the EMJC Purim Potpourri. There will be Purim fun for everyone: lots...

Saturday, February 27th at 6:45 PM, followed by the EMJC Purim Potpourri. There will be Purim fun for everyone: lots of costumes and masks, hamentashen and hot dogs, music and dancing, singing with Cantor Levine, bingo, arts & crafts, a CARNIVAL for kids and more. Invite your friends! Those who can please join us at 5:45 for mincha and ma'ariv We look forward to seeing you there. Larry Isaacson, President Michael Sucher, President]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2010://1.123 2010-02-19T02:42:06Z 2010-02-19T02:43:02Z

Join Cantor Sam Levine on Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 7:30pm for a Kibbitz with the Cantor. The topic of discussion will be: Anti-Semitism and You: our personal experiences with anti-Semitism and how they’ve changed over the years. This certainly...

Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 7:30pm for a Kibbitz with the Cantor. The topic of discussion will be: Anti-Semitism and You: our personal experiences with anti-Semitism and how they’ve changed over the years. This certainly will be a fascinating discussion. Come and share your stories and opinions! Kibbitz with the Cantor will take place at the home of Elaine Evans. Please call the EMJC office for the address and to RSVP.]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2010://1.122 2010-02-04T17:37:49Z 2010-02-04T17:42:28Z

The truth is time does accelerate. It moves faster with each succeeding year. Already it is February, and in shul we have already read of the exodus from Egypt, months   before anyone has even purchased a matzah or thought...

Michael Sucher and Larry Isaacson, EMJC Presidents]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2010://1.121 2010-01-29T14:40:00Z 2010-01-29T14:40:45Z

This Shabbat is one of the few throughout the year that is given a special name. The day we read Parshat Beshalach is called Shabbat Shira (the Shabbat of Song), commemorating the glorious and awe-inspiring event when, after the miraculous...

Parshat Beshalach is called Shabbat Shira (the Shabbat of Song), commemorating the glorious and awe-inspiring event when, after the miraculous deliverance from the Egyptians at the Red Sea, the Children of Israel simultaneously burst forth into a song of praise to God. However, beyond giving praise to God for miraculously saving us, the concept of shira (song) has a far deeper significance in life. If you have not been to Synagogue for a while, this Shabbat is a great time to get reacquainted. Cantor Sam Levine has a remarkable line-up of musical treats for our collective enjoyment during and after the service, involving children of all ages and special guests. Join us for a morning of community, worship and song. Shabbat shalom, Michael Sucher President]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2010://1.120 2010-01-14T18:04:28Z 2010-01-17T06:04:16Z

EMJC is collecting... emergency supplies, such as bandages alcohol swabs candles flashlights w/batteries blankets tarps sleeping bags tents insect repellent detergent soap can openers over-the-counter medications (Tylenol, Imodium, antibiotic creams, &c) foodstuffs, such as powdered milk canned meat tuna, sardines...

emergency supplies, such as

bandages

alcohol swabs

candles

flashlights w/batteries

blankets

tarps

sleeping bags

tents

insect repellent

detergent

soap

can openers

over-the-counter medications (Tylenol, Imodium, antibiotic creams, &c)

foodstuffs, such as
• powdered milk
• canned meat
• tuna, sardines
• canned vegetables
• canned water
• rice
• beans
• pasta
• peanut butter

clothing
• new & used clothing for children, men & women
• any underwear & socks -- must be new (in packaging) and unused

money to support the relief effort is also needed. There are many efforts in the US to aid victims of the terrible earthquake in Haiti. United Synagogue has created a Disaster Relief Fund for those who wish to help earthquake victims. To donate online, go to www.uscj.org/donate/relief. Other Jewish-based relief organizations include American Jewish World Service (www.ajws.org) and American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (www.jdc.org). Another way to help is to text "HAITI” to 90999. An instant $10 donation goes to the Red Cross. It is charged to your cell phone bill but your cell carrier keeps nothing -- 100% of your donation will go to the Red Cross. Please bring your items to EMJC no later than Sunday, January 17. A donations box will be in the main office. Friday office hours are 9-3; Sunday from 9-noon. We’ll also collect items at Saturday evening’s 7:30 pm Club Oasis concert. Donations will go to Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church to support their earthquake assistance efforts. OLR is working with large and well-known relief agencies. Checks for Haitian relief can also be made out to Our Lady of Refuge Church. Be aware they will not be able to give receipts. We plan to deliver EMJC contributions to Our Lady of Refuge on Monday, Jan. 18]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2010://1.119 2010-01-05T02:23:51Z 2010-01-05T02:24:42Z

The companion photographs to Dr. Berkowitz's article about his experiences in India, featured in the January Bulletin, are now available here....

here.]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2009://1.118 2009-12-31T02:20:59Z 2009-12-31T02:24:42Z

It may not be a new year in the classically Jewish sense, but a new year it is, and it leads us to ask the question we often ask at this time, which is “Where do we go from here?”...

Michael Sucher and Larry Isaacson, EMJC Presidents]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2009://1.117 2009-12-07T17:25:52Z 2009-12-07T17:28:19Z

Friends, This Sunday at high noon, East Midwood Jewish Center will hold its annual Latke Fry-Off, placing the very best "latke machers" in direct competition with one another. If you believe that your recipe is a winner, and you...

Friends, This Sunday at high noon, East Midwood Jewish Center will hold its annual Latke Fry-Off, placing the very best "latke machers" in direct competition with one another. If you believe that your recipe is a winner, and you are willing to put your potatoes where your mouth is, we need your help on Sunday! Year after year, this competition has brought out the best in local holiday cuisine, and this year, you too can compete. Please call or email me as soon as possible, if you are able and wiling to participate in this Sunday's festivities. Thank you, Michael Sucher]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2009://1.116 2009-12-04T17:13:29Z 2009-12-04T17:16:24Z

Sunday, December 6, 2009 - 4:00PM Free popcorn - $5 contribution At first, The Secrets is a sober exploration of limited female opportunities in the rigidly patriarchal, orthodox Jewish environment. But after two French characters are introduced, the movie becomes...

The Secrets is a sober exploration of limited female opportunities in the rigidly patriarchal, orthodox Jewish environment. But after two French characters are introduced, the movie becomes an intriguing, occasionally discordant hybrid of austere Israeli and voluptuous French filmmaking traditions. Although the story remains in Israel, in spirit the movie migrates from the Middle East to France. The Secrets plays as a melodrama, and much more: a film about religious and sexual intolerance, about reconciling opposed beliefs, about matching the fervor of feminism against religious patriarchy, and even in some ways a social comedy. It contains an object lesson for the whole genre involving romance and the battle of the generations: such films can actually be serious about something. When faith meets feminism. This film is rated R.]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2009://1.115 2009-12-01T05:03:20Z 2009-12-01T05:10:13Z

Wednesday, December 9, 2009 - 6:00pm The Lost Synagogues of Brooklyn Author: Ellen Levitt $36 per person. RSVP is a MUST by Friday, December 4, 2009. Presented by the EMJC Sisterhood. All are welcome to attend....

Wednesday, December 9, 2009 - 6:00pm The Lost Synagogues of Brooklyn Author: Ellen Levitt $36 per person. RSVP is a MUST by Friday, December 4, 2009. Presented by the EMJC Sisterhood. All are welcome to attend.]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2009://1.114 2009-11-16T16:48:36Z 2009-11-18T00:55:58Z

Friday, December 18 - 6:00pm Please join us for Kabbalat Shabbat services led by Rabbi Alvin Kass and Cantor Sam Levine, followed by Rosh Hodesh dinner. Order your tickets online by clicking here. It's quick, easy and secure....

Friday, December 18 - 6:00pm Please join us for Kabbalat Shabbat services led by Rabbi Alvin Kass and Cantor Sam Levine, followed by Rosh Hodesh dinner. Order your tickets online by clicking here. It's quick, easy and secure.]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2009://1.113 2009-11-04T14:30:44Z 2009-11-04T14:38:35Z

Women's Health Awareness - Wednesday, Nov. 4, 5:00-8:00pm Sisterhood of EMJC + Hadassah Brooklyn present an opportunity to learn about a range of health issues women face. Presentation by doctors and key staff at Maimonides Medical Center. Light dairy dinner...

Women's Health Awareness - Wednesday, Nov. 4, 5:00-8:00pm Sisterhood of EMJC + Hadassah Brooklyn present an opportunity to learn about a range of health issues women face. Presentation by doctors and key staff at Maimonides Medical Center. Light dairy dinner included in registration fee ($30 at the door). Birthday & Anniversary Shabbat - Saturday, Nov. 7 Join us at services to offer a mazel tov to our members celebrating birthdays and wedding anniversaries in November. Shabbat Lunch & Learn for Room J + Tots to Teens Families - Nov. 7 Plan now to attend the first Lunch & Learn of the year. Obligatory for Sun/Tues afterschool and b’nai mitzvah students. RSVP required: roomj -at- emjc.org EMJC Monthly Movie - Sunday, Nov. 8, 4:00pm Steel Toes (2006) in the Grand Ballroom. View trailer here. $5.00 per person & popcorn is free. A Jewish lawyer who works for the court system is assigned to defend a member of the Aryan Brotherhood accused of a racially motivated murder. A clash of ideologies follows as the attorney—a liberal humanist—attempts to put his professional beliefs before his personal beliefs, and his client clings to his hateful beliefs. Directed by David Gow & Mark Adam. Women, Wine, & Words - Monday, Nov. 9, 7:30 pm The Women’s Book Club discusses The Man in the White Sharkskin Suit in Room J. Kabbalat Shabbat Service + Rosh Chodesh Dinner  Nov. 13 Following Friday evening services, families welcome Shabbat and the new month. Invite a neighbor and introduce EMJC. Minha Maariv Madness - Saturday, Nov. 14, 4:30pm For all Tots to Teens. Help with havdalah, then head to Room J to make tzedakah boxes using polymer clay. $5.00 per person, includes materials & refreshments. RSVP appreciated! roomj -at- emjc.org Kibbitz with the Cantor - Sunday, Nov. 15, 7:30pm RSVP through the office, 718.338.3800 9th Annual Interfaith Thanksgiving - Sunday, Nov. 22, 4:00pm An inspirational music-rich event you won’t want to miss. Our Lady of Refuge Church, Foster & Ocean Aves. All who attend are asked to bring a non-perishable package or can of food for the OLR Food Pantry. Looking ahead... ]]> Birthday & Anniversary Shabbat - Saturday, Dec. 5 Shabbat Lunch & Learn for Room J + Tots to Teens Families Dec. 5 Minha Maariv Madness - Saturday, Dec. 5 Women, Wine, & Words  Monday, Dec. 7, 7:30pm - The Women’s Book Club discusses Sarah’s Key. Kabbalat Shabbat Service + Rosh Chodesh Dinner  Dec. 11 LatkaFest & Hanukkah Party  Sunday, Dec. 13]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2009://1.112 2009-10-23T02:57:17Z 2009-10-23T03:00:34Z

My teacher, the late Abraham Joshua Heschel, once said that Judaism must be caught, not taught. By that he meant that religious loyalty and observance are the consequence primarily of emotional convictions, not just cognitive insights. We are constantly bombarded...

minha and maariv. Logically that may not make sense. If there is no God, why should we pray? Clearly our emotional loyalties at the time superseded our rational conclusions. Subconsciously, our belief in God was obviously a lot deeper than our superficial arguments as “smart-alecky” college students who thought they knew everything. Norman Podhoretz has written a fascinating new book entitled Why Are Jews Liberals? In it he argues that from a rational point of view, Jews should now become conservatives in this country; because their self-interest lies in fostering causes and personalities on the Right which, he maintains, are increasingly philo-Semitic. Regardless of whether you agree or disagree with his conclusions, Rabbi David Wolpe, who participated in a Commentary Magazine symposium, is correct in saying that “kinship is stronger than any ideology.” Emotionally, Jews will always feel a lot more comfortable making common cause with people on the margins than the Daughters of the American Revolution. In other words, in spite of all the arguments advanced in political debates, it is ultimately an emotional attachment with the underdog that proves decisive for the preponderance of American Jews. J.H. Bradley put it this way: philosophy is ultimately “the finding of bad reasons for what we believe on instinct.” Recognizing that emotion trumps reason every time is very important in our effort to inculcate values in young people. Thus, when a teenage couple is in the back seat of a car, whether they have sex or not, or unprotected sex or not, will not be based solely on maxims learned in the classroom or health risk reports. Those teenagers will ultimately decide on the basis of sub-conscious and communal attitudes absorbed over a lifetime. A whole web of previous interactions with friends, family and the world-at-large will determine whether sex is a no-go zone or not. In the last analysis, our success in influencing behavior depends on our getting human nature right. That is the case whether you’re dealing with teenagers or trying to solve the problems of the Middle East. Heschel was right. Not only in the realm of religion, but in regard to every significant dimension of our lives, values must not only be taught; they must also be caught.]]> tag:www.emjc.org,2009://1.111 2009-10-14T15:46:59Z 2009-10-14T15:56:37Z

Reading the Bible the Kugel Way The Henry R. Goldberg Memorial Lecture Series Tuesdays, 8:00pm, beginning October 13 (10 lecture series) Lecturer: Rabbi Dr. Alvin Kass $40 members, $50 non-members Hebrew Language - Morning Class Mondays, 10:30 - 11:30am, beginning...

Reading the Bible the Kugel Way The Henry R. Goldberg Memorial Lecture Series Tuesdays, 8:00pm, beginning October 13 (10 lecture series) Lecturer: Rabbi Dr. Alvin Kass $40 members, $50 non-members Hebrew Language - Morning Class Mondays, 10:30 - 11:30am, beginning October 26 A course for beginners and those who have some basic skills in Hebrew. Instructor: Rachel Povarsky $40 members, $50 non-members EMJC Chorus Wednesdays, 7:30 - 9:!5pm, beginning October 21 Come join us as we prepare for the Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, a Chanukah mini-concert, choral selections for Shabbat services, and more! Always looking for new members! Director: Cantor Sam Levine $18 members, $25 couples, $36 non-members (suggested) Shvitzing with Sally Tuesdays, 7:00 - 8:00pm, beginning October 13 Exercise with weights to Jewish music; good for both the body and the soul! Instructor: Sally Hipscher $45 members, $55 non-members Kibbitz with the Cantor First meeting on Sunday, November 15, 7:30pm (following meetings on 2/14 and 5/16) Informal discussions on timely issues - hosted in members' homes. Please RSVP through the EMJC office. Moderator: Cantor Sam Levine Free of Charge Arab-Israeli Conflict Reading Group Next session on Sunday, December 6, 7:30 - 9:00 pm. Others TBA Pick up the reading packet at EMJC (in November) and join in on provocative and challenging discussions on writings by some of the New Historians and other writers Moderator: Cantor Sam Levine $18 members, $25 non-members (free for prior enrollees) Nevi'im - The Prophets: An examination of the weekly Haftarah Thursdays, 6:30 - 7:30pm, beginning October 15 Discussion of the Haftarah of the coming Shabbat and how it ties into the weekly Torah portion. This class will take place immediately prior to the ma'ariv service on Thursday evenings. Instructor: Judith Berman $18 members, $25 non-members (free for prior enrollees) The Mystery of the Sabbath: Unlocking the Shabbat Service through Text Study, Examination of Ritual, and Classic Cantorial Recordings Mondays 8:00 - 9:00pm, beginning October 19 This course is for novices and regular shul-goers alike. We will examine the Shabbat service with the aim of opening it up and taking the mystery out. How is the service structured? What do the prayers mean? How does music service to affect the atmosphere of the service? Come and learn! Instructor: Cantor Sam Levine $40 members, $50 non-members Torah Study Thursdays, 10:00 - 11:00am in the Board Room (4th floor) Moderator: Cantor Sam Levine $40 members, $50 non-members Continuing studies in the Book of Exodus - join us for a fascinating discussion. No prior knowledge necessary. Israeli Folk-Dance mini-Series Thursdays, 7:30 - 8:30pm, October 15, 22, 29 (3-week course) Come learn some new Israeli folk dances with Faige, a noted and experienced folk-dance teacher. (We will attempt to extend the course if there is sufficient interest.) $24 members, $28 non-members The Morton Binder Study Session Lunch and Learn First session (date TBA): Biblical Questions and Answers in George Bernard Shaw's plays Major Barbara, St. Joan, and others Guest Lecturer: Dr. Rhonda B. Nathan]]>