Membership Guide - Congregation Beth Tikvah

Transcription

The Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center
© 2009, Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center
High Holy Day
and
Membership Guide
5772
2011 - 2012
Visit us at www.fwjc.org
2011 Membership and High Holiday Guide
Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center
Dear Congregant;
In this booklet you will find a number of items which I hope will facilitate your Holy Day
preparations and lead to a greater involvement with your Jewish heritage and with the Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center.
THE FARMIGDALE WANTAGH
JEWISH CENTER
The Mission of the Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center is to create a caring community (a Kehillah) that motivates and enables our members to perform mitzvoth encompassing ethical behavior, ritual observance, spirituality and Judaic learning, while
transmitting these values and traditions to future generations.
To accomplish this mission we will:
 Maintain a traditional Conservative Synagogue as a house of assembly, study
and prayer in an environment where everyone is made to feel welcome and
men, women, and children of the Jewish faith have equal opportunities for religious expression.
 Create a large extended family that shares the joys of Simchas and supports
each other in times of need.
 Provide educational, religious and tikun olam programming to meet the needs
of our congregants of all ages.
 Support connections between our Synagogue and Jewish communities in the
United States, Israel and around the world.

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Foster the well-being of our larger society by participating in civic organizations and hosting community events.
September 2011
SCHEDULE OF HIGH HOLY DAY SERVICES
Selichot
Saturday, Sept. 24, 2011
Congregation Mtg. ................... 8:30 PM
Selichot Services .................... 11:00 PM
Erev Rosh Hashanah
Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2011
Main Service ............................ 6:30 PM
Yom Kippur
Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011
Shacharit (Main Service) ........ 8:30 AM
Junior Congregation ............ 10:30 AM
Sermon and Yizkor ................ 11:00 AM
Community Yizkor Service .... 1:30 PM
Nitzanim ............... 11:00 – 12:00 Noon
Mincha .................................... 5:00 PM
Ne'elah .................................... 6:00 PM
Erev Succot
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Mincha - Ma'ariv ..................... 6:15 PM
Succot
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Friday, October 14, 2011
Main Service ............................ 9:15 AM
Junior Congregation ........... 10:45 AM
Mincha - Ma'ariv ..................... 6:15 PM
Succah Hop (Sunday, Oct 16) ..............
Hoshanah Rabbah
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Main Service ............................ 6:30 AM
Mincha - Ma'ariv ..................... 6:15 PM
Rosh Hashanah
Thursday, Sept. 29, 2011
Friday, Sept. 30, 2011
Shacharit (Main Service) .........8:00 AM
Sermon ....................................10:30 AM
Junior Congregation ............ 10:30 AM
Nitzanim ............... 11:00 – 12:00 Noon
Tashlich (Thursday)................. 5:00 PM
Mincha - Ma'ariv(Thurs-Fri) ... 6:45 PM
Erev Yom Kippur - Kol Nidre
Friday, Oct. 7, 2011
Mincha ..................................... 6:15 PM
Kol Nidre ................................... 6:30PM
September 2011
Shemini Atzeret (Yizkor is recited)
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Main Service ........................... 9:15 AM
Junior Congregation ........... 10:45 AM
Simchat Torah Service ............ 6:15 PM
Simhat Torah
Friday, October 21, 2011
Main Service ............................ 9:15 AM
Evening Service ....................... 6:00 PM
NOTE:
Nitzanim Service .................... 3-7 year olds
Junior Congregation ............. 8-13 year olds
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In the seventh month, on the first day of the month, shall be a solemn rest
unto you, a memorial proclaimed with the blast of horns, a holy convocation.
You shall do no manner of servile work; and you shall bring an offering made
by fire unto the Lord. And the Lord spoke unto Moses saying: On the tenth
day of this seventh month is the day of atonement; there shall be a holy convocation unto you, and you shall afflict your souls; and you shall bring an offering made by fire unto the Lord. And you shall do no manner of work in that
same day; for it is a day of atonement, to make atonement for you before the
Lord your God.
The High Holy Days
Leviticus 23:24-28
The High Holy Days are the central part of the Jewish calendar and are much more
than just the three days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Starting with the
month of Elul which precedes Rosh Hashanah through the end of Simchat Torah
our calendar is filled with special events and services.
Elul
During the month preceding Rosh
Hashanah (beginning of the year), the
Shofar is blown each morning as
everyone prepares for the Days of Awe
(Yamim Noraim). Our Sages tell us:
"The thirty days of Elul to what are they
compared? To the thirty days of grace,
which a court grants a debtor in which
to pay his debts and be freed of his
creditors."
Kever Avot
“Graves of the ancestors”.
It is
customary during this period to visit the
cemetery and strengthen one's ties with
the ideals of the faith of our ancestors.
The Shofar
The shofar is made from a hollowed out
ram's horn and is the world's oldest
wind instrument. The sounding or blowing of the shofar is one of the most ancient rites in the Rosh Hashanah service. The sound of the shofar is primitive
and piercing, intended to rouse worshippers from their spiritual slumber and
serve as a clarion call to repent and reconnect with our faith, our family and
Hashem.
Blown like a trumpet, the shofar is
sounded for a total of 100 notes during
the morning service on each of the two
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days of Rosh Hashanah morning services. The blowing of the shofar is divided into three sections: First, the shofar is blown for 30 notes immediately
after the reading of the Torah and
Haftorah. Next, a second 30 blast blowing occurs during the repetition of the
Amidah. Finally, the last 40 blasts are
sounded at the conclusion of the service.
Before each sounding of the shofar, a
special prayer is recited blessing
Hashem for commanding the Jewish
people to hear the call of the shofar. After this bracha we stand at rapt attention in silence.
During the holiday of Yom Kippur, the
shofar is sounded for the final time of
the Jewish calendar year. On Yom Kippur the shofar blowing comes at the conclusion of the service, culminating an
intense day of praying and fasting.
The blowing of the shofar reminds us of
the Biblical story of Abraham, the first
Jew, and his beloved son Isaac. In the
Book of Genesis, Hashem commands
Abraham to sacrifice his only son. This
test of faith is revealed at the last moment, when Hashem sends an angel to
spare Isaac and instruct Abraham to
sacrifice a ram instead. Blowing the
ram's horn on Rosh Hashanah recalls
the self-sacrifice of both Abraham and
his son, Isaac, and reminds us that we
too must commit themselves fully to
Hashem and to Judaism.
September 2011
Selichot Services Saturday, September 24th
One of our beliefs is that God wishes us to turn away from sin and that God helps us to do
so. The High Holy Days focus extensively on this idea, which is called “teshuvah,” and means
“turning away from sin.” During the High Holy Days we have many opportunities to demonstrate to God that we have made sincere efforts to change our behavior from that which is hurtful
or wrong to that which is constructive and healing. We also have many opportunities to reflect on
our behavior and ask for God‟s help to lead better lives.
One of the ways that we prepare for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is by attending the Selichot
service which is designed to help us direct our hearts and minds to the process of teshuvah. At
Selichot, we begin to examine our deeds of the past year, seeking forgiveness from God, and
promising to improve our behavior in the New Year Selichot is traditionally held on the Saturday
evening before Rosh Hashanah, as long as Rosh Hashanah does not fall on the very next day in
which case it is held a week before in order to give people a chance to reflect on the changes of behavior that they wish to make. There is also a custom of holding Selichot services close to midnight, which is related to the belief that the Gates of Heaven open the widest at midnight; therefore, God will hear our prayers most clearly at this time of night.
This year Selichot will be observed on Saturday, September 24th. Please note the times for the
various portions of the evening‟s activities.
8:30 PM
CONGREGATION MEETING - Our evening program will begin with our first
general membership meeting of the new year. At this time members of the administration will provide updates about all aspects of the synagogue‟s activities.
9:30 PM
PROGRAM - An evening of Klezmer music and entertainment by the “Kenahora “
Band.
11:00 PM SELICHOT SERVICES - The traditional service will be led by Rabbi Lavin and
David Gelbman.
We hope that you will make every effort to attend this special evening.
hbwf hncl
May you and those you love be Inscribed and Sealed in the
Book of Life for a year of Health, Happiness, and Peace.
September 2011
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Eruv Tavshilin - Wednesday, September 28th
When a festival occurs on a Friday special arrangements must be made to prepare food for Shabbat. Ordinarily it is forbidden to cook or bake for Shabbat during a Festival, just as it is forbidden to so on Shabbat. If the preparation is begun before the festival, however, it may be continued by cooking for Shabbat during the Festival. The berakhah and declaration found below are
recited over some foods which have been cooked or baked for Shabbat. (This is done on Wednesday evening, before candle lighting). The food is then set aside, to be eaten on Shabbat and further preparation for Shabbat may be made during the Festival.
The following prayers are to be recited prior to sunset on Wednesday, September 28th:
Barukh attah adonai eloheinu melekh
ha-olam, asher kid‟shanu b‟mitzvotav v‟tzivanu
al mitzvat eruv.
Praised are You, Lord our God, King of the universe whose mitzvot add holiness to our lives
and gave us the mitzvah concerning the eruv.
By means of this mixture (eruv) we are permitted to bake, cook, warm, kindle lights, and
make all necessary preparations during the
Festival (yom tov) for Shabbat, we and all who
live in this place.
Tashlich Services - Thursday, September 29th
The Tashlich ceremony allows us to express our desire to be free from sin and our continuing
hope that we will be forgiven for past misdeeds. On the afternoon of the first day of Rosh Hashanah, or the second day if the first day is on Shabbat, it is customary to go to a flowing body of water and to recite prayers while casting our sins into the water. By performing Tashlich, we signify our hope that God will overlook our failings during the past year and grant us favor in the
year to come.
This year‟s Tashlich service will be held on Thursday, September 29th at 5:00 PM. We will meet
in the King Kullen parking lot on Wantagh Avenue (south of Jerusalem Avenue). From there we
walk to the stream where it crosses Beltagh Avenue just west of Wantagh Avenue. If it has been
dry summer and this stream is dry, we will walk over the foot bridge to the Twin Lakes Preserve
south of the Forest Lake Elementary School. Listen for the Rabbi‟s announcements during the
Rosh Hashanah Services for specific details.
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September 2011
Shabbat Shuva - Saturday, October 1st
The Sabbath of Return is the designation for the Sabbath between Rosh Hashanah and Yom
Kippur. Its name is taken from the Haftorah (portion of the Prophets) chanted on the Sabbath,
which begins "Shuva Yisroel", (Return O Israel unto the Lord Thy God), (Hosea 14:22).
Aseret Yemai Teshuvah
The ten days of Penitence or Return. These are the days between and including Rosh Hashanah
and Yom Kippur. It is customary to greet one another during this period with the blessing: May
you be inscribed and sealed for a good year (Ketiva Vechatima Tova). It is important to note that
one can only be Divinely forgiven for those transgressions committed against God. It is therefore
incumbent upon every individual to seek forgiveness of his fellow man during these days for any
wrongdoing he/she may have committed in the past year.
Kol Nidre - Friday, October 7th
"All the vows," the beginning of the dramatic prayer which inaugurates Yom Kippur. The
haunting and inspiring melody speaks of God's absolution of religious vows. It is conjectured that
the music was composed during the Spanish Inquisition (1492) when many Jews were forced to
publicly vow their allegiance to Christianity.
Yom Kippur Fast, Saturday, October 8th
In ordaining Yom Kippur, the Bible states: "You shall afflict your souls". This is the basis of
fasting, the abstinence from food and drink on the Day of Forgiveness. The purpose of the fast is
to emphasize the spiritual nature of humankind and demonstrate the God like quality in each of
us. Children usually begin to fast at the age of thirteen.
Succot
The festival of Succot has dual origins.
Historically, it commemorates the forty years of
wandering in the desert after the exodus from
Egypt, when the children of Israel lived in
temporary dwellings. Agriculturally the holiday
celebrates the final gathering of fruit and produce
of the year.
Preparation for Succot should begin immediately
after Yom Kippur, with the construction of the
Succah. The Succah must be a temporary hut with
at least three walls. The walls may be made of any
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September 2011
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material and should be fixed firmly so it will not be easily blown down or move in the wind. The
S'chach (roof) should be constructed from anything which grows from the ground and has been
cut off, such as branches, cornstalks, two-by-twos, bamboo and sticks. The larger items may
serve as support for the smaller, more decorative ones. The roofing material must be loose, not
bundled, and provide more shade than sunlight. One should be able to see the stars on a clear
night through the s'chach. The succah should not be built under a tree or permanent roof, in
order to preserve its openness. It is customary to decorate the succah with hanging fruit and
vegetables, pictures, tapestries, and electric lights to make it inviting and cheerful.
During the week long chag (festival), one should live as much as possible in the succah - eating
meals in it and entertaining guests.
Etrog and Lulav
According to the Torah, on the first day of Succot and for seven days, one should rejoice before the
Lord with the four species: the etrog (citron), a lulav (palm branch), the hadas (myrtle branch),
and the arava (willow branch). Placing the lulav (to which the hadas and arava are bound) in the
right hand and the etrog in the left hand with the stem on top, hold the two together and recite
the Berakha (blessing) for the four species. The lulav and etrog are not used on Shabbat.
Since time immemorial, blessing the lulav and etrog has been the Jewish way of thanking God for
the blessings of the earth on the holiday of Succot. By holding the four species together, we
symbolically “get our own act together” in preparation for the New Year. By pointing them in six
directions we remind ourselves that God‟s presence can be found in every area of our lives, and by
shaking the lulav and etrog vigorously, we commit to being movers and shakers in the world this
year, for good and for blessing.
Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah
The eighth and ninth days of the Succot Festival are called Shemini Atzeret. Its purpose is to
conclude the Festival of Succot. On this day one leaves the succah and returns to a permanent
dwelling. The four species are not used. Since it is on the second day of Shemini Atzeret that the
annual cycle of the weekly Torah reading is completed, that day has also become known as
Simchat Torah, or Rejoicing of the Torah.
Lulav and Etrog
It is not too early to order your very own Lulav-Etrog kit for Sukkot
this year. Men, women, and children can enjoy observing this Sukkot
Mitzvah each day in their home with their very own set. To order
yours, please return this form to the office with your check for $ 36.00
for each set desired. Please make check payable to Farmingdale
Wantagh Jewish Center.
Name:
___________________________________
Number of sets:
___________________________________
Amount enclosed:
___________________________________
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September 2011
HIGH HOLY DAY REMINDERS
This year we will hold Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services in the Ballroom and the Sanctuary. Junior Congregation services will be held in a tent in the
parking lot and Nitzanim Services will held in one of
the classrooms on the lower level.
During the High Holy Days congregants and guests attend Services in our synagogue. Please help us keep
these Services safe, dignified, and enjoyable to all those attending by observing the following guidelines.
Parking
Aliyahs
This year the entrance driveway to the parking lot will be available during the Holidays
for handicapped parking only. A number of
handicapped parking spaces are also
available in front of the synagogue. Please
observe the handicapped parking restrictions
and if possible leave additional space in front
of the building for the handicapped.
High Holiday Aliyahs are mailed out just
prior to Rosh Hashanah. If you are unable to
accept a designated Aliyah please notify the
office or the Religious Activities Vice
President as quickly as possible. This will
give us an opportunity to avoid confusion
during the Services by allowing us to offer
the Aliyah to someone who can accept it.
Please drive carefully and courteously on and
around the synagogue grounds as there are
many pedestrians and children moving
about.
Individuals with Aliyahs are requested to
identify themselves to the Ushers upon arrival at the synagogue. This will ensure a
smooth movement of people to and from the
Bima without disrupting the Services.
Decorum
Please do not congregate in the lobby areas
as the noise is disruptive to those in the
services.
Seats may not be reserved after 10:15 AM
each day.
The doors to the Services will be closed
whenever the Ark opened. Please do not
enter or leave the room during these times.
Please show your ticket to the ushers as you
enter.
Family Services
The Family Service will be conducted each
morning from 10:30 AM to Noon on Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Succot, and Shemini
Atzeret.
This service is geared towards families with children 8 through 13
years old.
Parents are more than welcome to join in
during the services with their children. Parents, along with their children may volunteer
to lead various prayers during all the services. Please speak to the School Director
about prayers that are available for your children or family to lead. If you would like to
volunteer for other aspects of the service,
such as doorperson, usher, or an assistant,
please speak to the Director as well.
September 2011
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Nitzanim Services
Babysitting Services
On Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, we provide services for families with children from
three to seven years old. The children are
welcome to attend these creative services
which combine prayer, song, story, dance and
refreshments. The service takes place from
11:00 AM to 12:00 Noon in the religious
school wing.
Babysitting will be provided for the very
young children (under 5 years,) in a
classroom located on the lower level, between
10:00 AM and 1:00 PM on Rosh Hashanah
and Yom Kippur.
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Nitzanim/Story Time is geared for children
ages 4 thru 7
Nitzanim/Story Time is available from 11
am until 12 noon in one of the classrooms
on the lower level.
Apples and Honey are provided for the
children on both days of Rosh Hashanah
There are no holiday services offered in
this area
Parents/Grandparents are always welcome
to remain in the classroom as long as they
do not interfere with the rules
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Babysitting is geared for children up to the
age of 3.
Sitters are available from 10 am until 1 pm
in one of the classrooms on the lower level.
There are two (2) sitters present in the
room
No food/drinks or snacks are available for
the children
If parents want their children to have a
snack or drink, they are responsible to
bring it from home and stay with their child
while it is consumed. All items must be
certified “kosher”.
Sitters are not responsible to change diapers.
Activities available for children shall exclude those that require writing or drawing,
cutting or ripping, or cause loud noises
such as those caused by musical instruments. These activities are excluded because it is Yom Tov.
Acceptable activities include: story time,
puzzles, blocks, cars and trucks and use of
many of the toys in the classroom
Parents/Grandparents are always welcome
to remain in the classroom as long as they
do not interfere with the rules.
Support the Daily Minyans
Dedicate a day morning or evening and be a part of tradition!!
See the schedule of services on the back cover.
For further information contact the office or the Religious Activities Vice President.
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September 2011
Rabbi Lavin
Holiday Greetings from
The arrival of a New Year signifies new hope that a better day will soon dawn. The
goal of our prayers is teshuvah, usually translated "repentance," but which literally
means "turning away." Our aspiration is to turn away from our shortcomings, to
move from where we are to a higher plateau, a more elevated level of being. The
plain truth, however, is that most people will fail in this endeavor. Past experience
demonstrates that very few ever manage to rise from the morass of past errors and
deficiencies.
Why is it so hard to effectuate change? Why is it so difficult to persuade; cajole, or
prevail upon another to alter their way of doing things, their attitudes, their philosophy of life and the habits derived from that outlook? The unalterable fact is
Our President
As we enter the new year, we are working extremely hard to bring our synagogue
building into the 21st century. There are many projects going on to update the
physical plant. The kitchen is being refurbished, there are plans to redo the memorial boards to accommodate the plaques from all three former congregations, repaving the parking lot is on the agenda and many other projects are in the works.
We are an extremely active community with something for everyone. Our services
are well attended, our fundraisers are successful and social evenings have been
highlights of our calendar.
However, we are looking to you … for more support.
The Editors
Current events provide a great inspiration for writing editorials such as this, particularly for those of us who are not natural creative writers. Sandy and I recently
celebrated two important milestones, the birth of our grandson and our 36th wedding anniversary To help mark these events we decided to sponsor an Oneg after a
Friday evening service. The Friday we picked turned out to be the hottest day of
the summer heat wave and the air conditioner in the sanctuary was unable to keep
up with the heat. Our lay leaders, Ernest Blum and Marvin Seckler stepped to the
Bima and led a true hamesha service. Ernest commented about how surprised he
was that we had a minyan considering the heat, yet by time we started almost fifty
people were in attendance. After the service, just about everyone stayed for the
Oneg. We didn‟t let the heat bother us and we sat and talked till almost 10:00 PM
September 2011
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Holiday Greetings from Rabbi Lavin
(Continued from page 11)
that changing human beings is the most challenging and formidable enterprise conceivable.
It would probably be easier to reverse the
course of the East River. Who among us has
not stood by helplessly as someone we love
pursued a disastrous course of action we knew
he would regret; but we knew that our words
would fall on deaf ears? We could not change
him!
Given the depth of human perversity and
stubbornness is there any hope of effectuating
change? Some of the wisest insights that I ever
read on this subject come from the eminent
psychiatrist, Karl Menninger's monumental
work, The Human Mind: "The first principle of
psychotherapy is that it is done by some one
for some one else. It requires a savior. This
savior may be almost anybody--many an intuitive woman has cured a neurotic husband or
lover by psychotherapy. I knew a policeman
once who knew more about soul-conflicts than
the district judge and had a way of resolving
some of them." Menninger goes on to say that
more important than technical training and
knowledge is having the right attitude toward
the patient and being genuinely interested.
It may be that Menninger is simply stating in
scientific terms what the Bible was trying to
say when it taught "love your neighbor as
yourself." The rabbis pointed out that love cannot be commanded. What the Scriptures are
saying, therefore, is that you should act towards your neighbor as if you loved him, and
ultimately the feeling will follow the action.
They also suggested that the exhortation to
love your neighbor refers not to your feelings
but your neighbor's rights. He has the right to
expect of you the kind of behavior that will reflect your respect for his person and dignity.
Notwithstanding the impossibility of commanding love, it is clear that Dr. Menninger
believed that those who aspire to heal the
emotionally wounded, those who cry out for
help in their need, must learn to love those
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whom they are treating. It won't do to pretend
to love or to play-act! You must genuinely feel
affection and empathy for the other. Martin
Buber makes essentially the same point when
he tells us in his classic volume “I and Thou”
that if you hope to relate meaningfully and
humanly to another person, you must love him
as yourself.
Is there any reason then to believe that the
advent of a new year can bring about any improvement in the quality of our lives, both collectively and individually? The answer of both
science and Judaism is that I can be better
than I am if I know that someone loves me
enough. The indispensable prerequisite is my
realization that someone in this world has confidence in my potentiality for growth and fulfillment as a person. Perhaps, even more important, not only can I be changed, but I can
also change another human being by pouring
my love upon him, by lavishly bestowing my
affection and devotion upon him. I can transform him if I instill within him the assurance
that someone cares enough for him, prays for
him, and believes that there are within him possibilities for growth.
Vera and our family join me in the hope that
this will be for all of us a year in which real
change will be possible. L’shanah tovah tikateivu V 'techatemu May you all be inscribed and
sealed for a Happy and Healthy 5772!
Dr. Alan F. Lavin, Rabbi
September 2011
Holiday Greetings from the President
Holiday Greetings from the Editors
It would be nice if the Men’s Club could boast
100% membership of every male member of our
synagogue. Sisterhood would love to see each and
every family represented at the paid-up membership dinner.
before wishing each other a „good shabbos‟ and heading home. It is common
events like this that help define our congregation - our extended family - and
make all of us feel at home in our synagogue. With the start of this new year
we hope that you will avail yourselves of
the many benefits of becoming an active
part of our congregation family.
Chavurah will continue to have social activities
planned and hope to see new faces join in their festivities … dinners, bowling, shows and other activities planned just for fun.
In addition to our ongoing activities, there is a
group of individuals meeting twice a month to discuss topics of interest to the members. Discussions
revolve around various subjects: Israel, moral and
ethical issues, current events both nationally and
worldwide and other non political issues. Murray
Wilkow has been the “unofficial leader” of this
group and would like to get more people involved in
these spirited discussions. The meetings will restart in the fall … call the office and let them know
you would like to add your voice to these discussions.
As we begin 5772, we are looking forward to continuing to make FWJC (soon to be Congregation
Beth Tikvah), a center for Jewish life that will inspire greater growth for our synagogue. If you are
aware of any new family or individual looking for a
new home please let our membership vice president, Larry Slutsky know and he will contact them.
Do not hesitate to contact anyone in the administration with suggestions to improve current projects, institute new ones or lend a helping hand.
We are here to listen and work together for a better
tomorrow.
Ira and I and our family want to wish each of you
and your family a healthy and happy New Year!
L‟Shanah Tovah
Toby Kase
President
September 2011

Each year this booklet is sent to you, the
members of our congregation, as a reminder of the many programs and benefits offered by our synagogue. It begins
with a description of the High Holy Days
and the religious services, traditions and
special programs that are part of it. The
Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center is
much more than just the High Holy
Days. We are open 365 days a year for
you, our members and extended family.
A typical weekday at the Farmingdale
Wantagh Jewish Center begins at 6:45
or 7:00 AM as a group of individuals
make their way into the synagogue for
the morning minyan. It may not end until around midnight as meetings or other
programs draw to an end. Weekends are
just as busy with Shabbat services and
various social programs.
This year we hope to take the final step
in the consolidation of the Farmingdale
Jewish Center, the Wantagh Jewish
Center and the Israel Community Center
- that of adopting our new name Congregation Beth Tikvah, a House of Hope.
We hope that when you read this book,
you will take advantage of the many programs offered and make the FWJC an
integral part of your life. Whether to attend services, participate on a commit(Continued on page 14)
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Holiday Greetings from the Editors
tee, learn something about our Jewish heritage or just enjoy the camaraderie of being
with friends and neighbors at a synagogue social program there is something for everyone
at our FWJC.
Throughout the remaining pages of this guide
are highlights of some of the many programs
and activities which make our synagogue a
bustling hub of Jewish activity from early
morning till late at night and include:
 Religious Activities - Religious services form the cornerstone of our synagogue. From the daily early morning and
evening minyans, Shabbat and many special Shabbat events, to the Holidays and
religious events throughout the year, not
a day goes by without services at the
FWJC. The synagogue and Rabbi are
always available to support the members
in all aspects of the Jewish Life Cycle.
 Synagogue Administration - The task
of planning and keeping these many programs and the building itself operational
is an unending task which forms the
fourth component of synagogue life.
Every day, over a hundred individuals
contribute their time, energy, ideas and
support to keep our synagogue running.
The President and almost a dozen other
elected officers, the Rabbi, Past Presidents, Trustees, almost eighty (yes 80!)
committees, the Arms (Men‟s Club, Sisterhood and Chavurah) and their Officers
and Boards, together with our dedicated
staff, form a moderate sized corporation
with all the management and operational
issues that go with it.
We extend our best wishes to you, our congregation family, for a Happy and Healthy 5772.
L’shanah tovah.
Sandra and Richard Slutzah, Editors
 Educational Programs - Education has
always been a vital part of Jewish life
and at the FWJC education starts with
our Nursery School‟s Mommy and Me
program and continues through Hebrew
High School. But education never stops,
it continues with adult education programs, lunch and learn sessions with the
Rabbi and a variety of special groups and
community sponsored programs.
 Social Activities - Life needs some fun!
At the FWJC fun begins with our award
winning youth group. For us older folks
there‟s Sisterhood, Men‟s Club, Chavurah
and a number of special interest groups
such as the Yiddish Club. Along with
special synagogue social events all these
programs fill the calendar with daytime,
evening and weekend activities with
something for everyone.
14
September 2011
Ruth V. Deane, Educational Director,
The Solomon Feld Religious School
Our goal here at the Solomon Feld Religious School is to provide a meaningful Jewish education and experience for our students, one that will encourage them to keep Judaism as a
part of their lives. We wish to create an environment that will allow our students to see all
the various aspects of Judaism - the customs, the food and the fun!
This year we will continue our quest to engage our children in Judaic activities. Fun family functions will be incorporated into our school year calendar. Please feel free to let me
know of any programming that would be of interest to you and your family. We will as always, work towards increasing our children‟s Judaic knowledge and strengthening their
Jewish values.
I look forward to seeing you during the school year - my door is always open. Please come
say hello.
Shana Tovah to everyone!
Ruth V. Deane, Education Director
Lois Schwalb, Director
The Doris Kramer Pre-School
The Doris Kramer Preschool has offered an outstanding early childhood program for over
35 years. Our warm, loving staff uses a variety of techniques to ensure that every child
has a successful and positive preschool experience. Our goal is twofold: we strive to develop an interest and joy in learning and to acquire and identify with our Jewish heritage
and customs. Our graduates come out of our program ready for Kindergarten academically, socially and emotionally.
We offer Mommy & Me for our youngest learners. This program prepares each child for
preschool, building their self confidence, developing a positive self image and showing
them what a preschool day is like. Our two, three, and four year old children enjoy a wide
variety of activities to ensure their emotional, academic, social and physical growth. The
Summer Gan program gives us the opportunity for continuity which achieving our goals in
a more relaxed atmosphere.
May the New Year continue to grant us the opportunity to bring Jewish Education to the
youngest segment of our community. With best wishes for a L‟Shana Tovah.
Lois Schwalb and the Doris Kramer Preschool Staff
September 2011
15
The Seven Days of Creation
In the summer of 2006, a committee was formed to undertake the production of a set of tapestries. At that time it was decided that the tapestries would depict the seven days of creation.
This was chosen because of the recent consolidation with the Farmingdale Jewish Center to form
the Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center.
It had been a long time but on Friday evening, September 11, 2009 a special service was held as
part of the Annual Welcome Back Shabbat Dinner dedicating these tapestries and thanking all
who participated in their creation. These beautiful tapestries are hung on the Bima of the Social
Hall for all to see and admire. We hope that they will further enhance the beauty and meaning of
the High Holy Day prayer services.
The First Day – Light From Dark
Donated By:
Jerry Lutzker and Family
Art Designed By: Selma Stern
Hand Hooked By: Rachel Stecker and Carol Bauman-Ortiz
The Second Day – Sky and Waters
Donated By:
Richard and Sherry Bockstein
Art Designed By: Richard Bockstein
Hand Hooked By: Sherry Bockstein
The Third Day – Land, Seas and Trees
Donated By:
The Lassman and Schweitzer Families
Art Designed By: Selma Stern
Hand Hooked By: Susan Goldstein
The Fourth Day – Sun, Moon and Stars
Donated by:
Sisterhood
Art Designed By: Estelle Friedman
Hand Hooked By: Sheila Blum
The Fifth Day – Creatures of the Seas and Air
Donated By:
Mike and Maddy Ross
Art Designed By: Estelle Friedman
Hand Hooked By: Susan Goldstein
The Sixth Day – Land, Animal and Man
Donated by:
Jerry and Sherri Cohen and Jerry and Estelle Friedman
Designed By:
Estelle Friedman
Hand Hooked By: Rachel Stecker and Shirley Schnaper
The Seventh Day – And God Rested
Donated By:
Carol Tallis, Melissa, Josh and Rachel
Designed By:
Richard Bockstein
Hand Hooked By: Joan Ray, Cele Goldenberg and Deborah Heyman
Committee:
Sheila Blum, Chairperson
Barbara Goldman,
Estelle Friedman,
Ben and Shirley Schnapper
Fran Rosenberg.
16
September 2011
Special Events During the Coming Year
The congregation and its arms offer a wide range of programs and special events
throughout the year. From special religious activities to pure social galas, there is
truly something for everyone. Here are some of the highlights of the coming year
but be sure to check Temple Talk for details about these and many other events for
every segment of the congregation.
Succah Decorating Party
On Sunday morning, September 25th,
the Men‟s Club Construction Crew will
be in the parking lot to erect the synagogue Succah. No experience is necessary but if construction‟s not your
thing, once the construction is done,
the decorating crew will be right behind them. String Indian corn while
shaking your tuchas to the beat of Hasidic and Klezmer tunes. Eat a bagel
with a schmear while hanging a plastic
pear - and most importantly, perform a
mitzvah!!! Bring your own decorations
or we'll supply them and join your shul
friends in decorating our beautiful succah. Come out and join the crews.
Annual Succah Hop
Our annual Succah Hop will be held on
Sunday, October 16, 2011 starting at
11:30 AM. Enjoy a progressive meal
and special entertainment as we hop
from succah to succah, visiting the succahs of our fellow congregants. If you
would like to serve as a Succah host
please contact the office in early September. Watch the newsletter for
details.
Simchat Torah Luncheon
On Friday, October 21, 2011 the congregation will hold a Simhat Torah
Luncheon. Watch Temple Talk for details and reservations for this traditional dairy lunch.
Men’s Club Bowling
League
This wild group of men meet once a
month on Sunday mornings at Wantagh Lanes for an exciting morning of
fun, friendship and bowling.
This
September 2011
year‟s first session is Sunday, September 18th.
Jewish Film Festival
The programs for next year will consist
of monthly programs, each depicting a
noteworthy Jewish theme such as antiSemitism, Life in Israel, the Shoah,
Jewish immigration and assimilation
in the US and the Middle East. Each
movie is followed by a discussion period. Watch Temple Talk for additional dates and details about specific
programs.
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October 9, 2011
November 13, 2011
December 11, 2011
January 8, 2012
February 12, 2012
March 11, 2012
May 6, 2012
June 24, 2012
Men’s Club
Chanukah Party
This annual event, hosted by the
Men‟s Club, is a highlight of the winter season.
This year‟s Chanukah
Party will be held on Saturday evening, December 17, 2011. It is always
a guaranteed fun filled evening for
young and old alike.
A Evening of Learning
The FWJC Sisterhood and other South
Shore synagogues will join together for
two Evenings of Learning. Each program includes and educational or entertainment program and refresh(Continued on page 18)
17
Special Events (Continued from page 17)
ments. The first evening will be on December
12, 2011 to be followed by a second evening on
March 12, 2012. Watch for more details in
Temple Talk.
Defensive Driving
Defensive Driving courses will be Sunday,
January 8, 2012 and Sunday, June 3,
2012. Take this course and earn points off your
license and a discount toward your auto policy. Watch for more details in Temple Talk.
Israel Bond Breakfast
The annual Israel Bond Breakfast will be held
on Sunday morning, February 5, 2012. Details
about the breakfast and the individuals being
honored at this event will be announced as the
date approaches.
Rabbi Mordecai & Gilla P. Rubin
Memorial Scholar in Residence
Shabbat
The annual Rabbi Mordecai & Gilla P. Rubin
Memorial Scholar in Residence Shabbat will be
held during the Sabbath weekend of February
10th and 11th. The guest speaker is Dr. Gershoh Balon of Bar Ilan University, who will
speak on various topics relating to the rise of
Hassidism.
Purim Celebration
On Wednesday night, March 7, 2012, and
Thursday
morning,
March
8th,
the
Congregation will celebrate the festival of
Purim with the traditional readings of the Megillah. Come on down in your best costume, and
don't forget your grogger.
Wednesday night also features the FWJC Purim Band, the FWJC Players, and the Purim
Costume Parade.
On Sunday, the Youth Group and Religious
School will host a Purim Carnival.
18
Our shul's Megillah reading is especially
hamish, as it's done by our own congregants
who can read as few or as many lines as
they like. To volunteer to read parts of the
Megillah, please call Annette Schwartzman
at 516-826-8165.
UJA Breakfast
The annual United Jewish Appeal breakfast
will be held on Sunday morning, April 1
2012. Individuals being honored at this
event will be announced as the date approaches.
Passover Workshop
Each year the arms of the congregation join
together to host a Passover Workshop.
Men‟s Club supplies the wine, Sisterhood
supplies the food and the Rabbi speaks
about the Haggadah. This year‟s workshop
will be on Wednesday evening, March 28,
2012.
Congregation Car Wash
Let the congregation wash your cars and
SUV's at our annual car wash. Watch Temple Talk for details.
Trivial Pursuit Challenge
An annual Chavurah tradition, this fun
filled evening pits member against member
for the bragging rights as the “Trivial Pursuit Mavens.” A friendly evening of fun,
food, and thought provoking questions.
Watch Temple Talk for details.
Sisterhood Fashion Show
The annual Sisterhood Fashion Show will be
held on May 2, 2012 and includes a fashion
show, vendor‟s evening, dinner, raffles and
prizes.
NY Islanders Hockey Night
Here‟s your chance to see the #1 Player
picked in the recent 2009 NHL Draft, John
September 2011
Special Events
Sisterhood Torah Fund
Evening
Tavares! See John lead the Islanders on a
winning path to the Stanley Cup Playoffs and
beyond. Don‟t miss our trip to see the rebirth
of your New York Islanders! Watch Temple
Talk for details once the schedule is published.
On June 6, 2012, Sisterhood will hold its annual Torah Fund Evening. The program consists of a A Rabbinical or Cantorial student
from the Jewish Theological Seminary speaks
and/or performs. Recognition is given for supporters of Women‟s League.
Surprise Fundraiser
Installation Celebration
Watch for details in Temple Talk about this
very special night of entertainment! Be with
your Shul family as you are in for a night
full of laughter!
Installation Shabbat will be held on Friday
evening June 8, 2012. Installation begins with
a Shabbat Dinner, followed by services, the installation program and an Oneg Shabbat. Join
us as we acknowledge those who have served
our synagogue during the year and offer our
best wishes to the new officers of the Congregation, Men‟s Club, Sisterhood, Chavurah and
Youth Group.
Shavuathon
On the eve of Shavuot, Jews all over the world
gather all night long 'til the wee hours of the
morning and study Torah. At our annual Shavuathon, we get together to teach and learn
from each other, on any aspect of Judaism,
from Jewish sports trivia to the ethical treatment of animals to the layout of the Temple.
At our Shavuathon you can give a presentation, or just come to learn. To volunteer to
give a presentation, please call Rabbi Lavin.
This year's Shavuathon will be held on Saturday evening, May 26, 2012
Journal Celebration
Who will be this year‟s Honoree? What type of
Celebration will we have? You will find answers to those questions when the year comes
to a close with our Annual Journal Celebration
on Sunday, June 10, 2012.
Congregation Meetings
The Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center is a New York State not-for-profit religious corporation. Each member of our congregation, is in effect, a stock holder of that corporation. The State
mandates certain aspects of our operations and requires periodic meetings of the membership.
General congregation meetings are held throughout the year and all members are encouraged to
attend and participate in these activities. The schedule of general meetings, and the major topics
to be covered at those meetings are:
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Saturday, September 24, 2011 - General Meeting
Sunday, November 20, 2011 - General Meeting
Sunday, January 15, 2012 - General Meeting
Sunday, March 18, 2012 - Election of Nominating Committee
Sunday, April 15, 2012 - Budget Meeting and presentation of slate of officers
Wednesday, May 16, 2012 - Elections
September 2011
19
THE KOL NIDRE APPEAL
The Kol Nidre prayer is recited three times. The first time to be heard by those who are near and
by the third repetition loud enough for all to hear.
The Kol Nidre Appeal in some ways could also be considered being recited 3 times, first by letter,
then in the Sanctuary and finally in the Ball Room. The appeal is made to help us begin the New
Year on a positive foundation. It‟s goal is to support our Congregation, not just now but to ensure that it remains strong, not just for us, but for our children, grandchildren and the community for many years to come.
Now is the time to reaffirm our commitment to the Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center. In an
era when Jewish continuity is at risk, we must continue to kindle the sparks of our heritage and
ignite the torch of our Torah in the hearts and minds of our children. Synagogues need two basic
elements to exist, money and people. Even if one of these elements is in place, a congregation
cannot function. We must continue to function.
Please heed the words and meaning of the appeal and make your contribution to the extent you
feel appropriate.
May we all be inscribed and sealed for a good, healthy and meaningful life in the New Year.
The Hatzilu Rescue Organization
Food for the Needy Project
The Hatzilu Rescue Organization was formed
over 20 years ago to aid elderly Jewish neighbors
who were in need of food, health care, or someone
to talk to. At the Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish
Center, the Hatzilu group sponsors two fund
drives, at Pesach and Chanukah, and has
provided food, clothing, housing and medical
care. Together with other synagogues, Hatzilu
has sent a number of needy individuals to a camp
in the Berkshires for two weeks and sponsored a
summer outing at Eisenhower Park.
As we learn in Judaism, giving to the poor
(tzedakah) is our moral obligation and one
of the highest forms of mitzvoth In keeping with this tradition, the FWJC through
the generous donations of members and
friends, have maintained an ongoing
FOOD FOR THE NEEDY PROJECT.
Hatzilu at Kol Nidre:
Operation Isaiah
This year Hatzilu will hold its food drive prior to
the Kol Nidre Services. All foods collected will be
distributed to the poor and hungry on Long
Island. Be sure to bring cans or jars of nonperishable food as you come to Yom Kippur eve
services.
This initiative is held in conjunction with
Operation Isaiah - the Conservative Movement's
project to help feed the hungry at this time of the
year. As we fast, we are told to think of those
who don't eat beyond the period of Yom Kippur.
20
The Project is a simplistic but effective
way to assist the elderly Jewish residents
in our community to remain in their own
homes with dignity and autonomy. We
send supermarket gift cards monthly in
the amount of $75 to clients whose names
have been given to us by JASA (The Jewish Assoc. for Service to the Aged.) Currently we are sending the gift cards to
three clients who have been screened for
legitimacy of need by the Organization. We hope to assist more families with
the
continued
support
of
FWJC members.
To contribute to this
program please send a check payable to
FWJC and indicate FOOD FOR THE
NEEDY on the face of check.
September 2011
The “Seven Days of Creation” tapestries are copyright, 2009, The Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center
.
Shabbat and Holidays
The Shabbat morning service at 9:15 AM combines worship and learning in both
Hebrew and English with a feeling of fraternity in a sanctuary that creates a sense of
intimacy and reverence.
The Kiddush that follows the service extends the
opportunity to strengthen personal ties.
Religious Services
Friday evening services at 8:00 PM have their own special quality when families and
friends join together to welcome the Shabbat. Oneg Shabbat (tea and cake) follows
the services.
The daily morning and evening Minyans provide the opportunity to fulfill traditional
religious obligations.
Jewish Festivals and Holidays are celebrated in the synagogue throughout the year
and encompass the entire cycle of Jewish Celebration and Observance including:
Selichot
Rosh Hashanah
Yom Kippur
Sukkot
Simchat Torah
Shemini Atzeret
Yom Hashoah
Yom Yerushalayim
Yom Ha'Atzmaut
Chanukah
Tu-Bishvat
Purim
Passover
Lag B'omer
Tisha B'Av
Shavuot
Yizkor (Memorial Service) is recited four times during the year, at services on:
 Yom Kippur (Saturday, October 8, 2011)
 Shemini Atzeret (Thursday, October 20, 2011)
 Eighth day of Passover (Saturday, April 14 , 2012)
 Shavuot (Monday, May 28, 2012)
The Daily Minyans
Daily minyans, both morning and evening, have been a tradition at the Farmingdale
Wantagh Jewish Center for over fifty years. Besides providing daily prayer services
for those who seek it, the minyan ensures that the regular reading of the Torah continues and that the Kaddish can be recited by those in mourning or recalling yahrzeits.
September 2011
21
The Shabbos
Breakfast Club
The Shabbos Breakfast
Club meets at 9 am Shabbos
morning to enjoy a delicious
breakfast and coffee/tea while
studying Torah. Jenni Zepnick
leads
this
in-depth
group discussion of the week's
parsha, using sources from
the ancient Midrashim of 200 CE,
through the Rabbinic commentaries of Middle Ages, up to today's
modern biblical analyses. Everyone is welcome - no knowledge of
Hebrew is required
Special Shabbat Services
As a congregation we are proud of the fact that many of the
groups within the congregation sponsor and lead Friday
evening Shabbat Services throughout the year. These services offer another opportunity for the members of these
groups to come together for prayer and fellowship. This
year‟s schedule includes the following dates:
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Welcome Back Shabbat - September 23, 2011
Jerry Friedman Membership - Nov. 4, 2011
Jewish War Veterans Shabbat - Nov 11, 2011
Chavurah Shabbat - Nov. 18, 2011
Youth Group Shabbat - Dec. 9, 2011
Men‟s Club Shabbat - Dec. 16, 2011
Sisterhood - Lassman Shabbat - Jan. 13, 2012
Executive Council Shabbat - January 27, 2012
Board of Trustees Shabbat - Feb. 3, 2012
Men‟s Club Shabbat - March 16, 2012
Men‟s Club/Sisterhood Shabbat - May 11, 2012
Installation Shabbat - June 8, 2012
Shabbat Under the Stars – June 22, 2012
Synaplex Shabbat
SYNAPLEX is a very popular shul event, attracting many congregants to what is always a funfilled shabbos afternoon. A "Synaplex Shabbat" features participation of shul members in the
shabbos service itself, and in the special show presented during a delicious buffet lunch. Highlights from recent Synaplexes include:
 "The Jewlywed Game" - our kosher version of the classic TV show starring four brave
shul couples;
 "Story Time With the Rebbetzin" - Rebbetzin Vera narrates a Jewish tale, while acted
out by "The FWJC Players", our in-house acting troupe;
 "Back to the Borscht Belt" - A Comedy and Acapela Musical Review starring
congregants impersonating borscht belt celebrities;
 "The FWJC Challenge: Junior Congregation Leaders vs. Senior Congregation Leaders"
- which is scheduled for a rematch in 2011-2012!!!
Check Temple Talk for details about this year‟s Synaplex events which will be held on the following Saturdays:
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September 17, 2011
November 12, 2011
January 21, 2012
March 17, 2012
May 19, 2012
September 2011
The Daily Minyans (Continued from page 21)
The minyans have become a gathering place, not only for our congregants, but for those from
many of our neighboring synagogues that can no longer support their own minyans.
The minyans are an important part of our tradition and services to our members and the community at large. Make a commitment to attend the minyan on a regular basis. See the schedule of
services on the back cover of this guide.
Support the Daily Minyans
Dedicate a day morning or evening and be a part of tradition!!
See the schedule of services on the back cover.
For further information contact the office or the Religious Activities Vice President.
Ethel Kantor
Women’s Minyan
The Ethel Kantor Women‟s Minyan is a
service consisting only of female worshippers.
These services begin at 12:45 and are
generally held on the second Saturday of each
month. Members learn to conduct the services, lead prayers, read Torah and prepare
Divrei Torah. The schedule for the coming
year consists of the following dates:
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July 9, 2011
August 13, 2011
September 10, 2011
November 12, 2011
December 10, 2011
January 14, 2012
February 11, 2012
March 10, 2012
April 14 , 20112
May 12, 2012
June 9, 2012
September 2011
Learner’s Service
It makes no difference whether you‟re a regular attendee, someone capable of leading the
service, or a novice, the Learner‟s Service is for
everyone. This is a less formal service interspersed with commentary, discussion and opportunities to learn traditional and new melodies for various prayers. Services begin at the
regular time of 8:00 PM and will be held on
the following Friday evening.
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September 2, 2011
October 28, 2011
November 25, 2011
December 23, 2011
January 20, 2012
February 24, 2012
March 23, 2012
May 25, 2012
June 12, 2012
23
For over fifty years, the Farmingdale and Wantagh Jewish Centers and the Israel
Community Center have prided themselves on their ability to provide a full range
of services to the members and the community. Some of the special services available include Minyans for Shiva and visits to mourners.
Services & Comfort
Bikor Cholim
Bikur Cholim, or visiting the sick, is more than an act of charity; it is a commandment that is considered binding on all Jews. The importance of visiting the sick
was underscored when G-d visited Abraham after he was circumcised (Genesis
17:26-18:1). In the act of visiting Abraham when he was ill, G-d set a precedent for
the Jewish people. Bikur Cholim is a paradigm for interpersonal relationships.
“And you shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18). The performance
of this mitzvah links us to all generations and connects us as one people to each
other and to all humanity through the G-dly attributes of compassion and loving
kindness.
We at the Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center have such a viable committee,
which has been keeping in touch with some of our members who have been ill or in
an adult facility.
The committee makes visits, telephone calls, sends cards, shops for groceries and
have been driving some of our extended family to their appointments. We have
made the commitment to care for one another, and bring the strength of community
and connection of our Jewish heritage to our Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center
Family. If you need us we are just a telephone call away. Call the office for further
information.
Tehillim (Healing) Services
Lifecycle Events
The Tehilim Group meets at the synagogue once a month at 8:15 p.m. to recite psalms for relatives and members
of our congregation who are ill. The
scheduled dates are:
The Rabbi is also available to assist
congregants with the many special life
cycle events which we are faced with
throughout the year. Please call the
office if you have any question or need
assistance with:
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24
Tuesday, Sept 13, 2011
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
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Conversions
Marriage
Baby Naming
Bris
Bar/Bat Mitzvah
Funerals
Unveilings
September 2011
Junior Congregation
The Junior Congregation Services will take place on Shabbat mornings from
10:45 AM to 12 Noon. Features of the service include:
At our Junior Congregation service, we add various Hebrew songs, games and
parsha skits. Our goal is to demonstrate the joy and beauty of our Shabbat services.
Youth Services
Our Rabbi makes regular visits to our Junior Congregation services. He always
has a story relevant to the week's Torah portion so that the children can relate
Shabbat to their own lives. He welcomes all children to visit and to participate
in the Shabbat services in our sanctuary.
Parents may sponsor a Kiddush at Junior Congregation to honor their
child. For example, if a child gets an A+ on a math test or scores the winning
run for their baseball team, parents may pay a small fee to provide food and
drink to honor their child.
Good attendance at Junior Congregation helps our religious school students understand and become familiar with all aspects of the Shabbat service.
The religious school director keeps track of the number of Junior Congregation
services attended by each student. Prizes are awarded to those students with
the best attendance.
Nitzanim (Tots) Shabbat Services
This year we will again have a full year of services for families with children
ages 3 - 7.
Children ages 3 through 7 are welcome to attend these creative services which
combine prayer, song, story, dance, and refreshments. The service generally
meets on the first and third Saturdays of the month from 11:00 AM - Noon in
the Religious School wing. Services are also held on many of the holidays
throughout the year.
The services are conducted by a qualified Religious School teacher with the
assistance of volunteer parents. We look forward to welcoming additional
volunteers. Please call the office at (516) 785-2445 for further details.
September 2011
25
Adult Education programs offer courses in Hebrew language, custom, ceremonies, the
study of topics of current interest, lectures by prominent speakers and participation in
events of special interest.
Lunch and Learn with
Rabbi Lavin
Educational Programs
The Lunch and Learn program is generally
held on the third Friday of the month. The
topic for this year‟s sessions will focus on the
Jewish life cycle.
The dates for this year‟s sessions are:
September 16, 2011
November 18, 2011
December 16, 2011
January 20, 2012
February 17, 2012
March 16, 2012
April 20, 2012
 May 18, 2012
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Arthur Schwartz
Memorial Library
The Arthur Schwartz Memorial Library
provides reading pleasure for Congregation
members.
The library boasts a large
collection of fiction and non-fiction books.
New books are constantly being added,
bringing us up to date on the most recent
publications. We operate on an honor system
and there is no charge for the library service.
Its purpose is to enrich our congregant's
background in Judaic studies and offer a variety of books for leisure time enjoyment.
Adult Education Program
In addition to the community sponsored
adult education program in the Fall, the
FWJC will conduct its own adult education
program on Monday evenings. Rabbi Lavin
will teach a course on Kabbalah, Jewish Mysticism.
Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah
This year the FWJC will start a two year
long glass for those members who wish to
prepare for their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Contact
the office for details and to register.
26
Community Programs
The Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish
Center is an active participant in a
number of local synagogue groups.
These groups sponsor a variety of
adult education programs taught by
our local Rabbis and distinguished
lecturers from the broader Jewish
community.
Wantagh Clergy Council
At about midday on August 3, 1954
an Air Force F-84 Thunderjet fighter
plane crashed into a residential
neighborhood on Denver Road in
Wantagh. In addition to the pilot,
one civilian on the ground was killed
and five were injured. The various
members of the local clergy gathered
at the site to offer theirs prayers and
assistance and out of this tragedy
came the Wantagh Clergy Council.
Rabbi Mordecai Rubin, Z”L, of the
Wantagh Jewish Center was installed as its first President.
The organization continues its functions today and will hold its annual
Interfaith Service. This annual
service is held on the night before
Thanksgiving and each year is held
at a different House of Worship in
the community.
Services will be
held on Wednesday evening, November 23rd. Check Temple Talk for the
location of this year‟s function.
Yom Hashoah Program
The conservative and reform Rabbis
and congregations in our area will
join together in a commemorative
program in remembrance of the
Shoah, or Holocaust.
This year‟s
program will be held at FWJC on
April 18, 2012.
September 2011
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS FOR OUR YOUTH
The Doris Kramer
Pre-School
The educational program for our
children starts with the Doris
Kramer Pre-School.
The Doris Kramer Pre-School has
offered the best in early childhood
education for over 35 years. The
warm, loving staff, uses a variety
of techniques to ensure that every
child has a positive and successful
experience at school.
At the Doris Kramer Pre-School,
our goal is twofold. We strive to
develop an interest and joy in
learning and to acquire an
identity with the Jewish heritage
and customs. Our dedicated and
qualified teachers help your child
learn to share with others and to
get along in a group situation.
The major activity of young
children is play and it is the basic
tool of learning.
At our preschool, the most advanced
methods of creative play are used.
Our curriculum includes reading
readiness, math readiness,
science experiences, language
arts, computer aided instruction,
cultural arts, as well as field
trips, arts and crafts and music.
Shabbat and the Jewish holidays
are included as an important part
of our curriculum.
Learning
takes place at many levels with
no academic pressure.
Mommy and Me (18 Months +) - A creative and fun
filled hour and a half each week for toddlers and their
moms. This program is designed to help each child
develop self-confidence, a positive self-image, and to enrich
the parent-child relationship. Activities for the children
enhance social skills, emotional maturity, and
environmental exploration.
Emphasis is given to
conceptual learning, stories, music and movement. For
parents, it is a place to eventually and comfortably
separate from their children and enjoy adult stimulation
and relaxation, while allowing their child to develop a
sense of independence.
Toddlers (2 years +) - Parents and children can adjust
to separation at a relaxed pace. The children will build on
socialization skills as well as learning to follow directions
and learning to follow rules. Age appropriate table toys,
help to develop small motor skills and hand eye
coordination.
Activities are designed to improve
communication skills and encourage creativity.
This program provides an excellent opportunity for the
young child to progress at their own pace while developing
self-esteem and an interest in learning.
Nursery and Pre-K - Our 3s and 4s enjoy a wide
variety of activities to ensure their emotional, academic,
social and physical growth. Age appropriate activities will
develop pre-reading and pre-math skills. Computers in
the classroom allow skill building in a most enjoyable way.
Cooking, cultural arts, and field trips are all part of an
enriching curriculum.
Celebrations of holidays and
Shabbat add to the joy of the pre-school experience.
Kinder + (Kindergarten Enrichment) - This
program is for those children who attend a half- day
kindergarten program in the public schools.
Kinder + will provide the children with opportunities to
explore and expand their knowledge of science and math.
Language arts, through dramatics, storytelling and
experience charts will be stressed. Cultural connections,
computers, cooking and music will combine to create a
learning environment that is fun as well as enriching.
Summer Gan meets daily for eight weeks. The program
is an excellent introduction to camp life for pre-schoolers
through first grade. The camp provides a full program of
creative play, arts and crafts, ceramics, music, cooking,
and water play. Computers are used to familiarize the
children with the world and language of computers.
September 2011
27
The Solomon Feld Religious School
The School Board, its Director and the entire teaching staff of the Solomon Feld Religious School of the Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center look forward to another successful year of providing quality
religious education to the children of our
congregation.
Primary School - Our three year Primary School
is intended for children in kindergarten and first
and second grades. This program is designed to
teach Hebrew reading readiness, Jewish holidays,
culture, and values through music, stories, art,
and other experiential techniques. Families are
encouraged to incorporate lessons learned at
school into their home ritual.
Our innovative curriculum and our teaching staff stimulate our students in their
quest for their religious education. As an
enhancement to our religious school
classes, we also schedule programs focusing on holidays, customs, traditions and
family values. These programs are generally "hands-on" and encourage family participation.
Grades Aleph - Hey - Students learn to read and
write Hebrew while developing a knowledge and
understanding of Jewish prayer. In addition, they
learn Jewish values, customs, rituals, history and
Bible through creative lessons designed to enhance
their love of our traditions. Our students form a
bond with the land of Israel and Jewish people
throughout the world. They are guided in developing a maturing belief in G-d and an understanding
and love for mitzvot -“good deeds”. At every opportunity, parents are encouraged to participate with
their children in services, special programs and
holiday workshops designed to enhance the observance of Jewish life at home. Our ideal graduate
is a Hebrew literate committed Jew who is always
eager to grow Judaicly.
Here at The Solomon Feld Religious School
we take the responsibility of providing our
children with a Jewish education very seriously. The Religious School is affiliated
with the Metropolitan Region of The
United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism and has been recognized as a School of
Excellence by its Department of Education. The Educational Director supervises
all aspects of the Solomon Feld Religious
School and is in turn supervised by the
School Board and the Rabbi.
Solomon Feld, Z”L
Sol Feld served as the Wantagh Jewish Center‟s Educational Director for twenty-two years.
After retiring as Principal of the WJC Religious
School in 1997, Sol became the Ritual Director
of the Wantagh Jewish Center, running the
morning minyans, reading Torah, leading the
Megillah reading, teaching adult education
classes and encouraging others to be more proficient in Hebrew skills to enhance services at
our Wantagh Jewish Center.
On April 23, 1998, The Board of Trustees officially renamed the Religious School Program to
“The Solomon Feld Religious School of the Wantagh Jewish Center.”
28
Children begin our five year Religious School at
the age of eight with the Aleph Class and conclude
to age thirteen with the Hey Class. Students then
have the opportunity and are encouraged to continue their studies in the Hebrew High School.
Bar/Bat Mitzvah Training - Students prepare
for their Bar or Bat Mitzvah as part of their last
year and a half of Religious School. In addition to
learning the necessary prayers, readings, and the
Cantillation for the Haftorah, all students are encouraged to lead as much of the Shabbat Service
as possible.
Hebrew High School - Farmingdale Wantagh
Community Hebrew High School offers a wide selection of Judaic subjects for post Bar/Bat Mitzvah
youth. In addition to regular classes, a number of
special events are scheduled for the school
year. The Hebrew High School will be meeting
Wednesdays from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at the
Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center and will be
taught by Rabbi Alan Lavin.
September 2011
Social Activities
The variety and number of groups and events in the synagogue provides each congregational family member a wide choice and many opportunities to enjoy the
warmth, friendship and support systems that come from congregation membership.
Men’s Club
Sisterhood
L‟Shanah Tovah. The New Year is
upon us, and now is the time to join the
Men‟s Club!
Sisterhood integrates the women of
our congregation into a unified group,
dedicated to foster the spirit of Judaism,
not only in the synagogue, but in our
homes as well. Members seek to further
their religious, cultural, and social
usefulness in the community and lend
assistance in the many endeavors of the
Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center.
The FWJC Men‟s Club cultivates the
highest principles of Judaism and supports the furtherance of the Shul vis-àvis its social, cultural and fundraising
events. The Men‟s Club fosters friendship and religious spirituality in the
course of many of its wonderful programs held throughout the year, such
as the very successful bowling league,
monthly game nights, the Annual Paidup Membership Dinner, Friday Night
Shabbat Services, Sunday morning
breakfasts with associated events and
other regularly scheduled monthly activities including movie nights, guest
speakers, fishing, trivial pursuit, billiards, miniature golf and golf at the
driving range. We also organize combined programs with Sisterhood designed to bring the two Arms together
to promote camaraderie and purpose.
The Men‟s Club provides support to the
Shul by setting-up for the High Holidays, constructing the Succah, hosting
the Chanukah party, holding the Passover Wine Sale, and mailing memorial
candles to commemorate Yom Hashoah
so that we shall never forget. We have
continually provided these services to
the Congregation from the very beginning and will continue to do so going
forward, without hesitation.
We are a strong and vital Arm of the
Shul, one that is active and continues
to grow and flourish under life‟s trying and demanding times. Individually, each and every one of us makes
a significant difference and is
charged with advancing forward for
September 2011
Activities include participation in
community affairs, holiday workshops
and social gatherings. Sisterhood helps
endow our religious school, youth
activities, and aids in holiday
celebrations.
The lives of the women of our
Con greg atio n are enhanced by
participation in Sisterhood.
The
regularly scheduled meetings are
highlighted with timely and enjoyable
programs. Try us. We know you will
want to join us.
Sisterhood has been a very active part of
the Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish
Center since the very beginning. In the
past, we have undertaken many projects
to benefit our Shul.
Sisterhood
continually sponsors Simhat Torah
refreshments, Religious School collations and various other activities
throughout the year.
Some of our programs include our
annual Fashion Show, Chinese Auction,
Evening of Learning, Book Discussion
Group, Summer Get Together and other
interesting and informative programs
for our members.
Sisterhood is only as strong as our
members allow us to be.
Input is
encouraged and we urge as many of you
as possible to join us and become part of
our family.
29
CHAVURAH
Chavurah is an important arm of the Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center. As Abraham and
Sarah were an important couple, our synagogue's members are some of the most important
couples of our time. But Chavurah is not limited to only “couples” - we welcome any member to
join us in a wide variety of social events.
Chavurah provides an opportunity for members to meet new friends and greet old ones. We
strive to plan exciting and varied social activities to appeal to the wide range of our
membership. Recent programs have included the annual Trivial Pursuit night, Scavenger
Hunt, Dinner at a Kosher Chinese restaurant and shows at local playhouses.
Chavurah can only be as strong as its membership is active. Please join us. Without you, there
is no "us".
THE FARMINGDALE WANTAGH JEWISH CENTER
RICHARD SPRONZ YOUTH PROGRAM
REGISTRATION - MONDAY SEPTEMBER 12TH
7:30 PM IN THE YOUTH LOUNGE
DON'T MISS OUT
JOIN THE BEST YOUTH GROUP ON LONG ISLAND!!!!!
The Richard Spronz Youth Group at the Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center meets on alternating Monday evenings from 8:00 to 9:15 PM in the synagogue‟s Youth Lounge. Kadima is for children in grades 7-8 and USY is for teens in grades 9-12. Approximately once per month we meet
with the youth group members from other local synagogues and do different fun programs. Some
of our programs include: cooking, crafts, trips, sports, scavenger hunts, movie nights, ice cream
socials and more! We are always coming up with new, fun ideas to do! We also welcome suggestions! We attend two Kinnusim per year (Spring and Fall) as well as various dances at different
shuls throughout the year.
Each year we host at least one Lounge Night where we welcome teens from surrounding shuls.
Usually the attendance nears 100. We are excited to welcome any new members who are interested in joining. Feel free to contact the synagogue office or email us at [email protected]
for more information. Both members and non-members of the FWJC are welcomed to join us!
The dates for our first few meetings are:
30

September 12: Registration - 1st meeting (7:30 PM)

October 3: Regular meeting (8:00 PM - 9:15 PM)

October 17: Regular meeting (8:00 PM - 9:15 PM)
September 2011
Mens’ Club
the greater good of Conservative Judaism. Given this, each man of our Congregation is encouraged to join the Men‟s Club. We each convey our own unique perspective with all others involved, and together we are the FWJC Men‟s Club. We always look to one another for innovative
ideas. Bring yours and join us!
Entertainment Books
Please remember to purchase your yearly Entertainment Books for 2012. Receive valuable coupons and discounts at: your favorite restaurants, stores, movies, sporting events, hotels, airlines,
etc. The book will more than pay for itself the very first time you use it. Don't miss out on these
valuable coupons!
Yiddish Club
You don‟t need to understand Yiddish to join this group. Weekly discussions and programs
cover a variety of topics related to the Yiddish language. This group meets every Monday at
11:00 AM.
SYNAGOGUE ENDOWMENTS
Through the generosity of our members, the Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center is privileged to
be able to offer a number of special scholarships and incentives to our youth. For information
about either of these programs please contact the Rabbi.
The Pearl M. & William A. Ross
Memorial Endowment Fund
Pearl and William Ross were charter members of the Wantagh Jewish Center. Upon
Pearl‟s passing in 2006, she provided for the
establishment of the Pearl M. Ross & William
A. Ross Memorial Endowment Fund.
This
fund is to be used to provide scholarships to
designated students at one or more of the following:
 Solomon Schechter Day School
 Jewish Theological Seminary
 Camp Ramah
A second fund, the Barbara Ross-Kaplan Memorial Endowment Fund, named in memory
of their daughter, provides a scholarship to
the Solomon Feld Religious School for a financially needy student of the Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center.
September 2011
The Helen and Marvin Meister
Endowment Fund for Youth
Trips to Israel
In September 2000 Dr. Marvin and Helen
Meister generously created this endowment
fund to provide funds for children of Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center families, in
grades nine through twelve, to participate in
programs involving a visit to Israel. Examples of these activities are the March of the
Living and USY Pilgrimage.
The Rabbi of the Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center, in consultation with the current
President and Education Vice President, will
select from those children who are seeking to
participate in a qualifying program, to be recipients of grants from the Helen and Marvin
Meister Endowment Fund for Israel Trips for
Farmingdale Wantagh Jewish Center Youth.
31
Non Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Wantagh N.Y.
Permit # 19
3710 Woodbine Avenue
Wantagh, N.Y. 11793-3099
Office: ................................................. 785 - 2445
Religious School: ................................. 221 - 1650
Nursery School: ................................... 826 - 6587
Youth Office: ....................................... 221 - 1650
FAX: .................................................... 785 - 5363
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Rabbi .............................................. Alan F. Lavin
Rabbi Emeritus:........... Rabbi Mordecai Rubin Z"L
Educational Director: ........................ Ruth Deane
Nursery School Director: ................ Lois Schwalb
Youth Directors:……..Ellyn Amper, Jennifer Schultz
Dated Material, Please Do Not Delay
Mailed on:
THIRD CLASS MAIL
SERVICES THROUGHOUT THE YEAR
Daily
Shabbat
Shacharit
Friday Evening
Mon, Thurs ............................. 6:45 AM
Rosh Hodesh ............................6:45 AM
Tues, Wed, Fri ........................ 7:00 AM
Sun & Legal Holidays .............9:00 AM
Mincha
All Friday night services ............ 8:00 PM
(Except Holidays and other special
days, see the Newsletter for details)
Shabbat Morning
Saturday ................ Following Kiddush
Congregation Services .............. 9:15 AM
Sunday - Thursday (Ma'ariv) . 8:00 PM
Junior Congregation ............... 10:45 AM
Nitzanim
(see the Newsletter for details)
Women‟s Minyan ..................... 12:30 PM
(see the Newsletter for details)

Membership Guide - Congregation Beth Tikvah

Transcription

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