What's Happening at West Orange Synagogues

Israel Initiatives at B’nai Shalom: Israel has been, and remains the heartland of Jewish existence. And as a modern American ally with shared values, Israel is a natural partner for social, economic and political relationships. Israel and America have much to experience together.

That is why B’nai Shalom is focusing on Israel initiatives this year. We were fortunate to welcome Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren to our congregation on Rosh Hashanah. 

And our Israel Bonds appeal nearly doubled this year in response to his message. We are launching an Israel Fair on Saturday night Oct. 27 with a concert and Israeli arts and crafts for sale. 

On Sunday, Oct. 28, we’ll experience an Israeli martial arts Krav Maga exhibition, and on Tuesday Oct. 30, we will hear keynote speaker Gil Hoffman on “Red States, Blue States and the Jewish State.” All of these events are free to the public. 

It would be a mistake to view Israel only through a political lens. The daily reality of Israel is social and cultural just like our lives in America, and environmental questions are as important for Israel’s future stability as the pursuit of peace.  

So we are entering an education and environment relationship with Israel through the Jewish National Fund.  We are helping sponsor a rainwater-reclamation project at the Tali School in Kiryat Yovel in Jerusalem.

We are teaching our children about water resource management here in our mitzvah garden for the needy and there – where fresh water is scarce and needed for domestic agriculture against foreign boycotts. Management of God’s resources for the pursuit of stability and peace: what a wonderful educational opportunity. All of this will be a part of our religious school, which welcomes non-members as well, as we introduce a year-long Israel curriculum to our program. 

We are also doing our part to support egalitarian Judaism in Israel, where men and women can pray together in public in the manner of their choosing, and where synagogues of all streams receive equal support from public funds. Our New Jersey Greater Metro West Federation has a sister region which includes the Negev desert city of Arad, and we will partner with Congregation Shira Hadashah there to help grow a struggling but dedicated religious community. Our members will become their members as we learn and grow together. 

And in the winter we are excited to announce that the Israeli winner of their version of “American Idol” – Hagit Yaso will be coming to B’nai Shalom for a one-time only concert on Saturday night Jan. 12. Yaso is of Ethiopian Jewish heritage and has a stunning  and beautiful modern pop sound.  

Yes, Israel is a real country not just a headline. Her people, and her land are our people and our heart. Join us in the weeks and months ahead as B’nai Shalom reaches out at the grassroots – people to people – to share values and hope together.

Shabbat Service Times
Friday, Oct. 19
Friday candle lighting time 5:51 p.m.
Evening Service: 6 p.m.

Saturday morning: 9 a.m.
Mincha, Study with Rabbi Tobin
Ma’ariv and Havdallah – 5:50 p.m.
Torah Reading: Parashat Noah

Daily Minyanim:
Sunday 9 a.m.
Monday- Friday 7 a.m.
Sunday – Thursday 8 p.m.

This Shabbat-Saturday, Oct. 20–11 a.m. - Shabbat Fun- a parent-led Shabbat service for children under 5 and their parents.
11 a.m. – Minyan Meyuchad – a monthly Shabbat service for adults with special needs
Approximately 1 p.m. – Sisterhood Book Review – discussion of the book The Invisible Wall: A Love Story the Broke Barriers, by Harry Bernstein

Upcoming Events
Wednesday, Oct. 24 –“When Leaders Have Clay Feet…”: A five part course on Leaders of the Bible. Explore the characteristics and flaws of some of our biblical heroes to help define what makes a good or bad leader. Registration required. $36 members, $50 non-members.
Thursday, Oct. 25 - Trip to the Jewish Theological Seminary to tour the school, the library and rare book room. Trip includes bus transportation, tour and lunch with Rabbi Tobin. $50.
Saturday, Oct. 27 – Israeli Art Expo Opens at 7:30 p.m. with artwork from more than 45 artists specializing in jewelry, Judaica, woodwork, paintings and sculpture.
8 p.m. Concert: “Jewish Songwriters, American Songs” The Jewish influence in the American popular songbook, performed by Don Batchelder on trumpet and Seth Saltzman on piano. Shop before the concert, during intermission and after the concert.  Refreshments will be available.
Sunday, Oct. 28 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Israel Art Expo
10 a.m.–2 p.m. – Scholastic Book Fair
10 a.m.- Holy Rollers –Torah Scribe, Rabbi Druhin will teach about caring for and checking Torah scrolls.
11 a.m.- Krav Maga Demonstration on Israeli Martial Art
Throughout the day: Informational tables on Israel, films and children’s activities
Monday, Oct. 29 - Israel Art Expo hours 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Also Scholastic Book Fair
Tuesday, Oct. 30 – Israel Art Expo hours 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Also Scholastic Book Fair
7 p.m. – JNF Speaker: Gil Hoffman, chief political correspondent and analyst of The Jerusalem Post will present: “Red States, Blue States and The Jewish State,” an insider’s perspective on the U.S. election’s impact on Israel.
Wednesday, Oct. 31 – Israel Art Expo – final day of shopping 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Come and select some early Chanukah presents or decorative pieces from Israel to beautify your home. Show your support for Israel and learn more about Israel. Enjoy a little taste of Israel for a few days at B’nai Shalom.

For more information on these programs, contact Leslie Gleaner, Program Coordinator at programs@bnaishalom.net or call (973) 731-0160 ext. 207.