To 5784—Happy New Year and a Community Event with Rabbi Seltzer!

The Institute for Judaic Services and Studies (IJSS) greets the new year welcoming congregants, clergy, and guests.

Rabbi Sanford Seltzer led us throughout the High Holidays with prayer, liturgy, and thoughts commensurate with the High Holy Days. Our cantorial soloist Eliyanah Powers guided us through our prayers with her glorious voice and melodies. Josh Nichols, DMA, is our new accompanist. Dr. Nichols is a composer, organist, and pianist. Experienced in his role in religious music with the ability to elevate the service and ritual brought many aspects to our services.

An Oneg was held after Rosh Hashanah services on Sept. 15. If you wish to sponsor an Oneg for that special event, remembrance, or celebration, contact Sherry Kaplan at [email protected].

“Kol Nidre” began our Yom Kippur service on Sept. 24. The prayer “Kol Nidre” (All Vows) is to many the single piece of liturgy that best represents Yom Kippur. A haunting melody often played by a cellist causes all present to delve deeply into their hearts and souls, looking for forgiveness. We are fortunate that Robert Marshall, cellist, again provided us with his musical abilities by playing Bruch’s “Kol Nidre” at the beginning of the service.

Contributions to IJSS are always welcome. Please think of us as you make plans for the coming year.

A SaddleBrooke Community Event: All residents of SaddleBrooke are welcome to hear Rabbi Seltzer speak to “Who Did What to Whom in The Garden of Eden? Does It Matter? Jewish, Christian, Muslim Views of Adam, Eve, and the Serpent.” This event is open to the community. It will take place at the Activity Center on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. Seating is limited!

Getting Together: A Community Celebration on Aug. 23 was sponsored by IJSS. We gathered to reconnect and prepare for the Jewish High Holy Days. It was attended by Rabbi Seltzer and Eliyanah Powers (and her dog). Rabbi Seltzer gave us a very quick briefing on the preparations for services. Food was plentiful and conversation vibrant. Reacquainting with many and making new friends was relaxing and enjoyable.

Shabbat Dates:

2023: Oct. 20, Nov. 17, and Dec. 15

2024: Jan. 26, Feb. 23, March 22, and April 19

The annual meeting will be held in December. All members are invited to come.

IJSS is a small and welcoming congregation. We value our members and their needs. If you have questions or wish to join our congregation, please feel free to contact Esta Goldstein at 520-825-1181 or Seth Eisner at 520-818-6340 for information.

Shanah Tovah to all! (Happy New Year)