An Exciting Time
April Shabbat services included our farewell to several congregants who winter with us. April’s Oneg was sponsored by the B’nai Midbar Board. New members were introduced and received a welcoming gift.
We said goodbye to Dr. Josh Nichols, our accompanist. Josh and his family are headed to the University of Mississippi in Jackson. He is taking on a role that will enhance his teaching and musical advancement. When he began, Josh studied Jewish liturgical music that was unknown to him. His hours of practice were repeatedly shown at our services. We will miss his talent and attention.
Eliyanah Powers, our cantorial soloist, captivates us all. We will welcome her return at Rosh Hashanah.
Rabbi Danny Price is taking the summer to travel and return to his Connecticut home. He has found a home for our former prayer books. He is personally delivering them to a military chaplain who will put them to good use. Thank you, Rabbi Price!
Herb Cohn, our religious chair, has arranged summer Shabbat services to be led by lay leaders, held at various homes. Contact Herb at shofarman@aol.com if you wish to lead or attend a service or sponsor an Oneg. Seating is limited to 25 people at each service.
Speaking of Onegs, to commemorate or recognize a special occasion, memory, or honor, contact Judi Friedman at judi95476@gmail.com.
Something to Talk About
Recently, Congregation B’nai Midbar was featured in the Arizona Jewish Post (April 21) as a “New Congregation Arises from SaddleBrooke Judaic Institute.” Phyllis Braun described our growth over 25 years and how we came to be. We are very honored for this tribute. And more news! The article will be in the Jewish News in Phoenix. What a way to grow!
Dates to Remember:
Summer Shabbat Services (at 7 p.m.)
June 20: Lay Shabbat services to be led by Herb Cohn
July 18*: Lay Shabbat services (a leader is requested)
Aug. 15*: Lay Shabbat services (a leader is requested)
*If you are interested in leading the Lay Leader Shabbat services, contact Herb Cohn at shofarman@aol.com.
High Holy Days
Sept. 22-23: Rosh Hashanah
Oct. 1-2: Yom Kippur
Celebratory Events
June 12: Boyce Thompson Arboretum Picnic Walk
July 9: Dolly Steamboat Cruise and lunch at Tortilla Flat
Aug. 31: Pre-High Holy Day Community Gathering
Sept. 13: Havdalah and Selichot service (marks the end of Shabbat and the beginning of the new week)
Nov. 15: Celebrating B’nai Midbar’s 25-Year Anniversary
Dec. 21: Chanukah Party
There Are Seders, and Then There Are Seders!
Our first B’nai Midbar Community Seder led by Rabbi Danny Price and Father Huy Vu, C.Ss.R., was a wonderful tribute to the sharing of rituals, beliefs, and spirituality that Passover brings to both congregations. Over shared tables, the story of Passover with traditional and modern practices, including a huge amount of music led by Rabbi Price, was told. Father Huy expressed the meaning and relationship of Passover and the two religions through commentaries, reflections, and annotations. Both leaders led us through our centuries-long traditions and practices. Susan Kravitz’s contribution of the song “Wade in the Water” with history added an element of thoughtfulness. There are many to thank among both congregations for their help in preparing, cooking, cleaning, and other behind-the-scenes tasks.
Several of us liked the Passover Haggadah that we used at our Seder. We are fortunate to be able to purchase these Haggadah for our personal use. Information on how to order will be made available.
Our neighbors at SaddleBrooke Ranch met with members of our board and Rabbi Price in April. It was an opportunity to learn about B’nai Midbar, make friendships, and share excellent food.
Israeli Independence Day and Israeli Memorial Day were celebrated by members attending ceremonies at the “J”.
And Jewish American Heritage Month is celebrated every May to honor the contributions of Jewish Americans to the United States. The month highlights Jewish American achievements in various fields, including culture, history, science, government, and more.
You are an important part of what B’nai Midbar offers! Volunteers are always welcome. Select what appeals to you, an area of interest, event, or project. Your knowledge and time contribute to who we are and who we will become. Please contact Joy Erickson at joyerickson4@gmail.com for more information.
Congregation B’nai Midbar, formally known as IJSS, is celebrating 25 years since our founding. Our history can be seen on our website at bnaimidbar.com/history. Explore our new website and learn about us and what’s new! Also know that we are a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt congregation. Contributions are welcome.
Congregation B’nai Midbar is a congregation that provides individuals of all backgrounds the opportunity to celebrate, practice, and learn from Jewish culture and religion in a welcoming and socially fulfilling environment. For information, contact Joy Erickson at joyerickson4@gmail.com.