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 פרשת צו

שבת הגדול 
Shabbat Tzav

Shabbat HaGadol



10th of Nissan, 5780

April 3rd-4th, 2020

 

Candle lighting: 7:05 PM    

Havdalah: 8:06 PM
JOIN THE KEHILAH FOR

MINCHA EREV SHABBAT:

TIME:  7:00 PM on Zoom.



Zoom Meeting:

https://us04web.zoom.us/j/124920932



The Kehilah will be offering people the opportunity to daven their own private tefilah with the space to recite Kaddish for all zoom participants to answer.

While the tefilot will be tefilah b'yechidut, people saying mourner's Kaddish will have the opportunity to recite Kaddish with their community joining on zoom.

----------

Sunday-Wednesday: 7:05 PM


Join us for daily Mincha/Maariv on Zoom:
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/429455694


Or, by phone:  1646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 429455694



We will have Mincha/Maariv davened privately but with the opportunity for Kaddish.


Please note:
This week, Mincha b'yechidut will take place at 7:05 pm
followed by a d'var Torah, Mishna or d'var halakha, followed by Kaddish, followed by Maariv b'yechidut, followed by Kaddish. 

As explained by R' Najman, this position of Kaddish being recited via Zoom is due to the unusual circumstance of the COVID-19 pandemic, given that people are practicing social distancing and putting Pikuach Nefesh above all else, by staying indoors.
This position does not allow d'var sh'ebikdusha during the Tefilah without a minyan present.
This position of the recitation of Kaddish with a quorum of 10 men on zoom is not to be understood or used as a long term p'sak. 
This p'sak is only enforced during this unusual predicament people find themselves in during the
COVID-19 pandemic.

This position, following the p'sak of Rav Eliezer Melamed and the opinion of Rav Benny Lau, permits mourner's kaddish to be recited by a virtual minyan answering amen. 
However, if a person would like to daven l'chatchila without recitation of Kiddush, one should do that.
This p'sak is meant for those individuals who feel they would benefit saying the words of Kaddish and confirmeing that it is not considered a Bracha l'Vatalah.

May the need for this leniency be lifted soon and may we hear b'surot tovot.

For more information, please contact R' Najman at
info@thekehilah.org 

Great Halachic Question in the Era of Coronavirus:

Sunday at 9:00 AM


A Roundtable Discussion from Jerusalem, NY and Detroit

with


Rabbi Daniel Landes

Rabbi Dina Najman

Rabbi Ethan Tucker

Moderated by Rabbi Asher Lopatin

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1--pu0OpqRPlwvGU8HhGsvP183P0XVoxrT0yRFMgU7qM/edit?usp=sharing

Zoom link is: https://zoom.us/j/381185346

IMPORTANT RESOURCES FOR PESACH, 5780

 
MAOT CHITTIM

If you are not in need of the food service but would like to help others through The Kehilah of Riverdale's Ma'ot Chitim fund, please click HERE to donate and designate your donation for Ma'ot Chitim.

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SALE OF CHAMETZ: 

Given the COVID-19 global pandemic this year, adhering to social distancing standards, prioritizing everyone's safety is of primary importance.  As such, larger national organizations have taken on the responsibility to take care of Mechirat Chametz (sale of Chametz) for individual communities.

The Mechirat Chametz for The Kehilah will be done electronically through the CRC (Chicago Rabbinical Council) form.

PLEASE CLICK
HERE AND SUBMIT THIS FORM.

BY MONDAY, APRIL 6TH.

Through filling out this form, you will be appointing Rabbi Yona Reiss, Av Beit Din of the Chicago Rabbinical Council, or his designee, as agent to sell your chametz for you to a non-Jew.

For any questions, please email:  Rosh Kehilah Najman's email: 
RK@TheKehilah.org or dina.najman@gmail.com

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TEVILAT KEILIM IN THE TIME OF THIS PANDEMIC:

If the Keilim Mikvah is open, please follow the guidelines below in the Riverdale Mikvah page below in this bulletin.

In the event that the keilim mikvah is closed, then the opportunities that exist are the following:


1. Gift the keilim to a non-Jew with the understanding of being able to use them and will give them back in a safer climate.

2. The cRc is using a mechanism to exempt utensils from the obligation of tevilas keilim (immersion in a mikveh) considering the current circumstances of social distancing and other constraints, in reliance on a suggestion of Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach for emergency situations. If a Jew does not own a vessel that he is using, that vessel does not require t'vilah (immersion). 
 
Accordingly, they are planning  2 conference calls on Friday, April 3 at 10:30 am, and again on Monday, April 6, at 10:30 am where people can declare as hefker (ownerless) any relevant keilim (utensils) before a cRc Beth Din panel of rabbis.
The call-in number is 773-657-9272.

Participants will be called upon, individually, to recite the following script:
"Hello.  My name is [     ].  I hereby declare that all of the food-related utensils that I own that require t'vila but have not been toveled yet are hereby hefker, declared ownerless to everyone."
The Beth Din panel will respond: 
"Your utensils are now hefker." (You can then hang up.)
 
This will allow for the use of any utensil currently in one’s possession. After performing this procedure, the person should have in mind if he or she uses these utensils from now through Pesach, that he or she is using hefker utensils and not his or her own utensils.  Be sure to note which utensils you made hefker, as when there is with G-d's help an opportunity to tovel the utensils in the future, he or she must tovel the utensils at that time (upon re-acquisition thereof).  


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PREPARATION FOR PESACH

TO LISTEN TO ROSH KEHILAH NAJMAN'S PRE-SHABBAT HAGADOL DRASHA, CLICK HERE

FOR SOURCES FROM THE DRASHA, CLICK HERE:

Read Up on How to Prepare for Pesach,
compiled by Rabbi Barry Gelman.
Click
HERE to read.

OU Guide to Passover 2020
Download the OU Guide to Passover 2020 and take it with you when you go shopping! Click
HERE to download.

For any halakhic questions regarding purchasing items or kashering for Pesach, please contact R' Najman at:

RK@TheKehilah.org or dina.najman@gmail.com


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TAANIT BECHOROT - SIYUM

The Siyum for Taanit Bechorot  on ZOOM will be conducted , BE"H, by Yonatan Najman-Licht.

Date: Wednesday, April 8th

Time: 8 am.

All are welcome to Join the Zoom Meeting:


https://zoom.us/j/3600879294

OR

To Dial in with the phone:

1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID: 360 087 9294

     Guidelines for Social Distancing in our Riverdale Community:



Dear Riverdale Jewish Community,

As the coronavirus crisis grows, we consider it our most basic duty to share the further guidelines for us all to practice to help save lives - to best ensure the welfare of each of us and each other.  This document was prepared by doctors and community representatives based on national guidelines. 

Social Distancing: At first, COVID appeared to be limited to certain travelers or individuals.  It has now spread randomly in the community.  Please keep this in mind as you read the information that follows. 

To slow the spread of COVID-19, the CDC has encouraged us all to practice "social distancing." Social distancing is a public health strategy that aims to reduce the encounters healthy people have with those who have a communicable disease like COVID-19.  Remember, more than 80% of people with COVID-19 will not have symptoms or the illness will be very mild.  Additionally, there are also people who think they have the flu or a cold, but actually have COVID-19. These people will be walking around with COVID-19 and it can be spread directly to you if they cough or sneeze. Additionally, the virus will be on their hands and passed to door knobs, counter tops, etc.  By keeping your distance from others, you decrease your chances of being exposed.  

Please read and consistently follow the guidelines below.  More information and background follows at the end of the document. 


May we be blessed with healing and strength,

Rabbi Steven Burton, Congregation Shaarei Shalom

Rabbi Steven Exler, HIR – The Bayit 

Deann Forman, The Riverdale Y

Rabbi Aaron Frank, Kinneret Day School

Rabbi Thomas Gardner, Riverdale Temple

Rabbi Shmuel Hain, YIOZ of North Riverdale/Yonkers

Rabbi Tully Harcsztark, SAR High School

Rabbi Simon Hirschhorn and Rabbi Noah Aronin, Hebrew Home at Riverdale

Rabba Sara Hurwitz, Yeshivat Maharat

Rabbi Barry Dov Katz, Conservative Synagogue Adath Israel of Riverdale

Rabbi Binyamin Krauss, SAR Academy

Rabbi Jonathan Kroll, SAR High School

Rabbi Dov Lerea, Congregation Beth Aharon

Rabbi Dov Linzer, Yeshivat Chovevei Torah

Rabbi Dan Margulies, The Riverdale Minyan

Rosh Kehilah Dina Najman, The Kehilah of Riverdale 

Rabbi Joseph Robinson, Riverdale Jewish Community      Partnership (an initiative of Riverdale Y)

Rabbi Levi Shemtov, Chabad of Riverdale

Rabbi Linda Shriner-Cahn, Congregation Tehillah

Rabbi Dovid Zirkind, Riverdale Jewish Center
 

Social Distancing Guide

Below is a quick guide to what you should not do, what you should do with caution (remembering the 6-foot rule and washing or sanitizing your hands frequently) and things you can do with relative safety. 

Please note: the following guidelines apply to those who are feeling healthy, have no underlying “at risk“ conditions, and are younger than 60 years old, based evidence of those who are at higher risk from COVID-19.  If you are sick, have one of the “at risk“ conditions, or are 60 years old or older, CDC’s and other guidelines are clear that you should stay at home. This more restrictive approach for these populations, especially people older than 60 who feel healthy and well, can be tremendously burdensome and challenging. But we truly view this as what each of us can do to help save lives.

 

Do not:

  • Gather in groups, including for such life cycle events as weddings and funerals, and home or synagogue minyanim

  • Have sleepovers or playdates or hang out with friends (of any age) 

  • Play sports with non-household family members 

  • Have meals with friends and neighbors

  • Do any non-essential driving with others (except household members not in quarantine)

  • Have non-essential visitors or workers in your home

  • Spend too much time in stores or places of business for any reason, get in and out as soon as possible

  • Go to malls or crowded stores 
     

Do with caution:  

  • Shop for groceries quickly and not in crowded stores, and shop during off peak hours when the stores are less crowded; opt for delivery by phone or utilize internet orders if possible

  • Pick up a prescription at a pharmacy (if you cannot arrange for delivery)

  • Go to work only if you must

In each of the above cases, try to keep to the 6-foot rule, wash or sanitize your hands frequently (especially as soon as you get home) and consider changing and washing your clothing upon returning home

 

Safe to do:

  • Go for a walk or a run.  Even if you live in an apartment building you can go outside and get some fresh air (keep in mind the 6-foot rule, and wash your hands frequently)

  • Ride a bike

  • Play in the backyard with household members not on isolation (if you live in a house), or sit outside on your balcony (if you live in an apartment)

  • Go for a drive with household members (if not in quarantine)

  • Cook a meal or bake together as a family

  • Work from home

  • Exercise at home

  • Meditate

  • Connect with others by phone, text, WhatsApp, FaceTime, Zoom

 

FAQ

1) What does it mean to be in isolation?

In isolation, you should have no contact with anyone unless absolutely necessary.  This is reserved for individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 because they have the greatest likelihood of spreading the disease.
 

2) What does it mean to be in quarantine?

Quarantine is in order when someone has been exposed to COVID-19.  Because people can transmit the disease before they have symptoms, in quarantine you should restrict yourself to your home and have contact only with individuals in your home.  You should do your best to stay 6 feet from each other and you should not share utensils, beds, cups, etc. with them.  

3) So how does social distancing differ from quarantine?  

Quarantine is when you are restricted to your home and can be in contact only with those living there with you.  Social distancing allows for minimal movement in the community if you focus on reducing contact with others.  One of the main ways of doing this is by avoiding events and crowds, reducing meetings and other gatherings to a few members, working from home with video and phone meetings as necessary, and keeping a safe distance of 6 feet with anyone you are with for longer than 6 minutes.  

 If you do go out, try to stay 6 feet away from others.  If you live in an apartment, try not to touch handrails or other items in the stairwell and avoid crowded elevators.  In all cases, use hand sanitizer frequently and wash your hands thoroughly as soon as you return.  

Not easy, we know!!  But during this uncertain time, when we are all looking for ways to help out and keep our community, friends and loved ones healthy, social distancing is something simple we can all do.  It is a selfless act that saves lives.

4) How is the Coronavirus spread?

COVID-19 appears to be spread via respiratory droplets, and mainly from person to person. This means that with a cough or a sneeze the viral particles may directly spread to another person or fall to the surrounding surfaces or the ground. The particles travel generally no more than 6 feet, therefore the “six feet rule.”  The virus can live on some surfaces for many hours, so someone who touches those surfaces and then touches their face, especially their eyes, nose and mouth, may introduce the virus into their system.  That is why cleaning surfaces, frequent hand washing and minimizing touching the face is crucial.

5) Where can I learn how to protect myself and more about social distancing?

The CDC has a very clear website on actions to be taken to protect yourself and your family.  The recommendations on this site are very much a part of what social distancing is about. 

Click here to view this useful web page.  Additional information about COVID19 and social distance from the New York City Department of Health can be found here

6) Coming Home from a flight abroad or separate community from areas with active transmission (like Israel, New York, New Jersey, Florida, etc):
These individuals are recommended to self quarantine for 14 days - symptom free.  If possible, they should sleep in separate locations and keeping at a safe distance from others in the home.  Many individuals are arriving home from schools abroad. As difficult as it may be to resist hugging and kissing grandparents or any relative who may have their health seriously compromised from catching COVID-19, please refrain from doing so

                                                    ___________________


                           
 Patronizing Local Establishments

We are fortunate to have a thriving group of Jewish institutions and kosher stores and restaurants in the Riverdale community. Many business owners and institutions are currently or potentially facing challenging times as we are not able to support their establishments in the ways that we usually do.
Let's make a strong effort to continue to patronize them.
When we return to our normal routines, we are going to need and want them to continue serving our community.

A MESSAGE FROM THE RIVERDALE MIKVAH:



                                                                            B”H
                                                                            Nissan 5780

 

Dear Friends, 

As the situation is constantly evolving - we are constantly changing our protocols. Some of these protocols have already been in place for more than a week but others are new. We ask that you read it carefully so that everyone can continue in health and safety while fulfilling this important mitzvah. 

● The Riverdale Mikvah will continue its appointment only model every night. This will allow us to stagger usage and run the pool filters between each use. We will not have more than one person (aside from the attendant and cleaning attendant) in the building using the Mikvah at a time. This adheres to the current social distancing guidelines. 

Please use this link to make your appointment. If you need a spot that is not available for a personal or medical reason please call the Mikvah. We will be sure to do our best to accommodate everyone’s needs. https://calendly.com/theriverdalemikvah/mikvah-appointment 

● Payment for mikvah visit or Bedikah cloths should be done online or by mail. Please respond to your appointment email if you need bedikah cloths so it can be ready when you arrive thereby reducing any additional time and transfer of items during your Mikvah visit. No cash or credit card transactions will take place at the Mikvah. Please pay via zelle or chase quick pay to theriverdalemikveh@gmail.com 

● All Mikvah preparations must be done at home. You will not be allowed to use anything at the Mikvah - and if you do not come prepared we will have to send you home. We ask that you leave all personal belongings at home. 

● Mikvah rooms and preparation rooms are being disinfected between usages. All mikvah personnel are using gloves and replacing them between cleanings. All door knobs, counters or anything coming into contact with a person is being disinfected between use. Mikvah personnel are limited at this time, to ensure minimal outside exposure (i.e. refraining from taking public transportation etc) and are asked upon arrival about their health status. 

● Please come with your own personal robe and towel. 

● Although not usually Halachically advised, during the current pandemic a woman may shower when arriving home. 

● If you or anyone in your household has a fever, any respiratory symptoms or are experiencing any other signs of illness, we ask that you not make use of the mikvah at this time. If you are in quarantine, ie anyone in your household has been sick with COVID-19 symptoms within the last 14 days, you may not go out to use the Mikvah. 

● If you have tested positive for COVID-19 or you have experienced symptoms associated with COVID-19, do not return to the Mikvah until at least seven (7) full days have passed since recovery defined as resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and significant improvement of respiratory symptoms (eg., cough, shortness of breath). In addition, the first time you return to the Mikvah please request an appointment towards the end of the evening. 

● This protocol has been in place but we want to let people know that the Mikvah attendant will not be coming within 8 feet of any woman using the Mikvah. The Mikvah attendant will remain at the doorway of the Mikvah pool room and will ensure that the tevilah is kosher but will not do any further inspections - as is in line with social distancing guidelines. 

● At this time, the Riverdale Mikvah is only available to local Riverdale women in the community. 

● You will receive an email the day of your appointment, with a review of the most up to date procedures and a request to email back confirming you are local and that you and your family are in good health. You will also be screened upon arrival at the Mikvah to confirm your health status. 

Of course, as always, please consult your Rav and physician with any specific questions you might have. Wishing a refuah for all those in need - and may our commitment to mitzvot while adhering to the highest level of concern for the safety of life merit good news and continued health. 

- The Riverdale Mikvah Committee

____________________

KEHILAH MEMBERS: 
PLEASE CONTACT R' DINA NAJMAN WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS AT DINA.NAJMAN@GMAIL.COM

Z’MANIM FOR ALL OF PESACH:

APRIL 7th-16th


EREV PESACH

TUESDAY, APRIL 7th

Sunset: 7:27 PM

Ma’ariv: after 7:57 PM

Bedikat Chametz: immediately after Ma’ariv

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8th: 

*DO NOT FORGET TO PREPARE AN ERUV TAVSHILIN*

Bechorim Fast begins: 5:15 AM

Zoom Siyyum with Yonatan Najman-Licht: 8 AM

Last time to eat Chametz: 10:46 AM

Burn Chametz before: 11:51 PM

Mincha with Communal Kaddish by Zoom:  7:00 PM

 

1ST DAY OF PESACH:

WEDNESDAY NIGHT, APRIL APRIL 8th

Candle Lighting:  7:10 PM

Kiddush: after 8:10 PM

Chatzot (eat Afikomen before): 12:56 AM

THURSDAY DAY, APRIL 9th

Latest Shema: 9:39 AM

 

2ND DAY OF PESACH:

THURSDAY NIGHT, APRIL 9th

Sunset: 7:30 PM

Ma’ariv: After 8 PM

First night of Sefirat Ha’Omer

Candles/prep for second day: after 8:12 PM

Chatzot (eat Afikomen before): 12:56 AM\

FRIDAY-DAY, APRIL 10th

Latest Shema: 9:38  AM

  

SHABBAT, 1ST DAY OF CHOL HAMOED PESACH

FRIDAY, APRIL 10th

Candle lighting: 7:13 PM

Abbreviated Kabbalat Shabbat and Ma’ariv

2nd night of Sefirat haOmer

SHABBAT DAY, APRIL 11th

SHIR HASHIRIM IS RECITED

Latest Shema: 9:37 AM

Seudah Shlishit: begin before 7:32

Shabbat ends:  8:14 PM

 

2ND DAY OF CHOL HAMOED PESACH

MOTZAI SHABBAT, APRIL 11th

3rd Night of Sefirat haOmer

SUNDAY DAY, APRIL 12th

 

3RD DAY OF CHOL HAMOED:

SUNDAY EVENING, APRIL 12th

Mincha/Maariv/Communal Kaddish by Zoom:  7 PM

4th Night of Sefirat haOmer

MONDAY DAY, APRIL 13th

 

4TH DAY OF CHOL HAMOED:

MONDAY EVENING, APRIL 13th

Mincha/Maariv/Communal Kaddish by Zoom:  7 PM

5th Night of Sefirat haOmer

TUESDAY DAY, APRIL 14th

Mincha/Communal Kaddish by Zoom:  7 PM

 

SHVII SHEL PESACH - YOM TOV:

TUESDAY EVENING, APRIL 14th

Earliest Candle Lighting (Plag): 6:15 PM (Daven Mincha before)

Candle Lighting: 7:17 PM

Sunset 7:35 PM

6th Night of Sefirat haOmer

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15th

Latest Shema: 9:33 AM

Plag Mincha: 6:16 PM

Sunset: 7:36 PM

 

ACHRON SHEL PESACH

WEDNESDAY EVENING, APRIL 15th

Candles/prep: after 8:18 PM

7th Night of Sefirat haOmer

THURSDAY, APRIL 16th

Latest Shema: 9:32 AM

Seudat Mashiach/Seudat HaBesh”t: 

Havdalah: 8:20 PM

Sold Chametz may be eaten after 10:30 PM

ERUV TAVSHILIN

Do not forget to make an Eruv Tavshilin 
on Wednesday, April 8th - before Yom Tov***

An Eruv Tavshilin should consist of:
  • 1 matza
and
  • 1 cooked item like: meat, fish or egg (something that would be eaten with the matza) 

***While it is preferable for each family unit to make an eruv tavshilin, Rosh Kehilah Najman will be making an eruv tavshilim having the community in mind.
 
The following Bracha and declaration is recited:
 


Image result for fruit tree

 
A ONCE A YEAR BRACHA - BIRKAT HAILANOT

Starting in the month of Nisan, there is a bracha
"ברכת האילנות" (the blessing over trees in Bloom),
which is recited.

Rosh Chodesh Nisan marks the beginning of the season for Birkat haIlanot. This Bracha  is recited only once a year extolling Hashem's renewal of creation each year.


THE BRACHA:

When one sees blossoming fruit trees for the first time during the month of Nisan, one should say this blessing:

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה' אֱ-לֹקינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם שֶׁלֹּא חִסַּר בְּעוֹלָמוֹ כְּלוּם וּבָרָא בוֹ בְּרִיּוֹת טוֹבוֹת וְאִילָנוֹת טוֹבוֹת לֵהָנוֹת בָּהֶם בְּנֵי אָדָם.

Translation: Blessed are You, L‑rd our G‑d, King of the universe, who has made nothing lacking in His world, and created in it goodly creatures and goodly trees to give mankind pleasure.


Early Sources for this Bracha:
This bracha is spoken about in many early sources, like Brachot 43b, Rokeach (pg. 235), Or Zarua (1:179), Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim, 226), Aruch haShulchan (226:1) and many others.

When to say this Bracha?
The best time to recite this bracha is the first time seeing a fruit tree in bloom during the month of Nisan.  Meaning:  Upon seeing the actual blooming or flowering of the tree.  According the Mishna Brurah, seeing the leaves grow is not enough to recite the bracha - one must see the budding or flowering.  
However, where trees start to bloom in Adar or where they begin to bloom in Iyar or Sivan, the bracha can be said then.  In the countries like Australia, where fruit trees blossom in Tishrei or Cheshvan, the blessing should be said at that time.

If there was a tree which began to bloom in Nisan but a person did not see it until later, he or she may make the bracha the first time he or she has seen the tree, provided that the fruit of the tree has not ripened.  Once the fruit is ripe, the bracha can no longer be recited.
- Along those lines:  If someone saw a tree in bloom but forgot to recite the bracha or was unable to say the bracha, one may say the bracha at a later time, provided that the fruit of the tree has not begun to grow.

Some poskim maintain that this bracha should not be recited on Shabbat or Yom Tov since it may lead to shaking or breaking the branch off the tree.
However, the Shulchan Aruch (OC 336:10) states that we may smell the Hadas attached to a tree on Shabbos, since we are not concerned that the branch will be broken off.  Therefore, most poskim permit saying the bracha on Shabbat or Yom Tov, since we are not concerned that a person will break off a branch while reciting the bracha.
Even for those who customarily recite the bracha only during the week, if the last day of Nisan falls on Shabbat, the Yechave Da'at (1:2) says that one may recite this bracha on Shabbat.

- According to the Tzitz Eliezer (12:20-6), Rav Eliezer Waldenberg, this bracha may be recited at night.

Which Trees require Birkat HaIlanot?
Only on fruit bearing trees.

Even if a tree does not bear fruit and a person said it on that type of tree, he or she does not need to repeat the bracha.

There is a disagreement if one can make the bracha on an Orlah tree (a tree that is not fully 3 years old). Many poskim permit it.

Reciting the Bracha During a Shmita Year:
It is allowed to recite the bracha on a tree during the Shmita year, even if the tree was cultivated and in violation of the Shmita laws.

How Can I Make the Mitzva of Birkat HaIlanot More Beautiful: Hiddur Mitzvah?
1.  Make the bracha on two or more trees ( the two trees do not have to be from different species).
2. Saying the bracha in a the presence of a minyan followed by Kaddish.
(Before hand, V'yehi Noam followed by the Psalm 143 is recited).
3. Trying to say the bracha as ealy as possible (From Rosh Chodesh Nisan)

 

Chodesh Tov!
 

Dear Kehilah Members and Friends, 

After a series of shiurim, and based upon overwhelming communal interest, our Kehilah has now expanded the roles for women during Kriyat haTorah.

Women and men are called to the Torah for aliyot and participate in reading from the Torah. 

If you would like to read from the Torah on any given Shabbat, please click
here to sign up to lein on our google sheets.


Now more than ever we need your support, and we encourage you to renew your membership with the Kehilah for 2020 today.
In addition to our basic membership of $500, we are introducing a new Chai Membership of $1,800
If you believe in the mission of the Kehilah, if you are excited about the dynamic programming changes, we encourage you to support us. 

 

Finally, we also ask that you to consider renewing your membership for 2020 soon. 

Now more than ever we need your support.

In addition to our basic membership of $500, we are introducing a new
Chai Membership of $1800.

If you believe in the mission of the Kehilah, if you are excited about the dynamic programming changes, we encourage you to support us. 

https://www.thekehilah.org/donate

Thank you for your generous past support and we look forward to seeing you THIS SHABBAT, February 22nd.


Rosh Kehilah Dina Najman
President Jonathan Konovitch

A Short Vort for Shabbos:
Parshat Tzav

 

The beginning of Parashat Tzav discusses the mitzva known as terumat ha-deshen.  This mitzvah requires the kohen to remove the previous days ashes from the altar each morning. 
Chazal, in the Mishna, Masekhet Yoma, 22a,  describes the proper procedure taken to assist in the decision of which Kohen would do this ritual each day.  The Mishna describes that the Kohanim who wanted to be involved in the Terumat Hadeshen ritual, could be involved.  Yet, the overwhelming interest to perform the Terumat HaDeshen, would give way to a great deal of competition.  Chazal explain that races would ensue.  Kohanim would race up the ramp all the way to the top of the Mizbaiach (the altar).  Whomever reached the top first, would have the honor of performing the Terumat haDeshen.
 
However, the Mishna explains that at a certain point, this competition to the top of the altar resulted in kohanim knocking off each other where some kohanim fell to the ground, suffering broken legs and more severe injuries.  Rather than risking injury, the decision was made to take a daily lottery, each morning, in order to designate one kohen to the task of performing Terumat haDeshen.
While one may see the beauty in z'rizim makdimim l'mitzvah - being zealous in the performance of mitzvot, the lack of concern for others truly reflects a failure in ethical behavior.
 
There are great dangers in designating a disproportionate emphasis to ritual at the expense of others' well being. 
While the case in the Mishna highlights the commitment and dedication of the Kohen for service in the Mishkan, unfortunately, it simultaneously highlighted the failure of the kehuna, as leaders of Klal Yisrael, to see beyond their own spiritual needs or even tasks in favor of the more basic common decency and concern for those around them. Focusing on ritual over ethics has the potential to cause harm to others - even while in the service of Hashem.  
 
The importance of service to HaKadosh Baruch Hu needs to be of the highest standard.  But, this episode in the Mishna should serve as a serious warning about those individuals who see service to Hashem merely in the ritual.  They serve Hashem with an enormous zeal.  A necessary message from this incident is that one should serve Hashem with excitement and joy, however, one's religious zeal can never take precedence over the safety of others.  One must always exercise careful thought and sound decision-making.  It is possible, however, that in the case in the Mishna, Chazal is dealing with a Kohen who did not actively desire to shove his fellow kohen off the ramp in order to be first to the top of the altar.  However, impulsive actions have the potential to turn off the intellect.  When that happens, religious zeal runs the risk of becoming irreligious behavior.  

As this shabbat is also Shabbat haGadol, we take the time to ready ourselves for the moment that we became a people.  The celebration of  the birth of our nation requires a re-dedication to the commitment that being a part of people necessitates valuing and respecting all of our people.  This is a critical piece of the service to Hashem.  

As the Kohen represents the collective, respecting the other should be of utmost importance.  That is why, when involved in ritual, we must continuously reflect on our behavior and tasks and ensure that we serve Hashem with a great deal of energy, devotion and love for Hashem and all that HaKadosh Baruch Hu has created.

Shabbat Shalom.

THE KEHILAH SUNSHINE COMMITTEE WISHES A HAPPY UPCOMING BIRTHDAY TO....


NAOMI NAJMAN
SHERRELL NAJMAN
NAHUM PALEFSKI


May they all have good health and may they continue to find fulfillment and joy in all they do for so many.  Ad me'ah v'esrim shana in great health.
THE KEHILAH BOOK CLUB

THE NEXT KEHILAH BOOK CLUB WILL MEET ON...

Sunday, June 7, 2020
at the home of Joyce Marcus
629 Kappock St.
Riverdale , NY 1046
 
Presenter:  To be announced

We will discuss “The Jews of Harlem”
By: Jeffrey S. Gurock

 
 
 
The Jews of Harlem follows Jews into, out of and back into the renowned metropolitan neighborhood of Harlem over the course of a century and a half. It analyzes the complex set of forces that brought several generations of central European, East European and Sephardic Jews to settle in Harlem, and it explains the dynamics that led Jews to exit this part of New York.
Gurock has populated his book with fascinating tales of Jewish Harlem’s development with all people, Jews and African Americans who gave the community life and vitality.
 
We look forward to seeing you on June 7th.
 
R.S.V.P.
Ruth Licht-
ruth.licht@outlook.com
or
Sherry Najman
Sherrell.najman@gmail.com
 
 
If you would like to share an important part of the book, we’d love to hear your opinion.
Upcoming Communal Events:


Hebrew Free Burial Association’s Riverdale Community Breakfast
This year, HFBA will be honoring Joel E. Simon, Lauren and David Lieberman, and Bella Hochberg.
The original scheduled date for March 29, has been postponed to June 14.

We are looking forward to coming together as a community for the event on June 14.
HFBA will keep you updated as we get closer to June.

For more information, email us at info@hebrewfreeburial.org



Riverdale Run 2020
The Riverdale Y will be hosting its annual community-run on May 17, 2020. This year the proceeds will go towards funding our Inclusion Program. Save $10 by registering with our Early Bird Special! Bring your entire family, your neighbors, and building residents for a fun-filled day. Alongside the run, there will be an assortment of local vendors and activities available. To register, please visit 
www.RiverdaleRun.com.

All In: Inclusion Program
All In is an inclusion program open to participants of all abilities for ages 6 - 16. This allows participants to engage with other peers as they learn to improve their social and communication skills through activities. The programming can include Sports, STEAM, Dance, Music, Arts, and Social Skills. This 10-session program runs from February 23 - May 3. To register, please visit 
www.RiverdaleY.org/allin.

Maccabi Games
The Riverdale Y is happy to announce our plans for two great JCC Maccabi experiences this Spring and Summer. We're excited to be a co-sponsor of these games right in our backyard! We are planning to send a delegation that includes boys, basketball, and ideally girls basketball as well. For more information, please check out our website at 
www.RiverdaleY.org/maccabi.
PESACH IS COMING...
Looking for a  Haggadah to bring to your seder or give someone as a gift?

The Kehilah's very own Sharon Marson has authored a wonderful Haggadah:

More Than Four Questions:
Inviting Children's Voices To The Sede
r


 
" . . . at the other extreme is the clean, accessible and progressive More Than Four Questions by Sharon Marson. Wittgenstein once imagined a religion comprising nothing but jokes. Well, More Than Four Questions is a Haggadah (or Haggadah supplement) comprising only questions. More Than Four Questions is an ingeniously contrived book with 50-odd pages of questions for children and adults, blank spaces for kids and grownups to write their answers and, on the reverse side of each page, actual answers by actual kids, as well as reflections from classical and contemporary sources. More Than Four Questions met an unwritten standard of mine: I gave it to my sister for use at the “kids’ Seder” with my nephew and his friends. It’s a useful companion to the Seder, and the adults’ reflections are, like the in-jokes on “Sesame Street,” enough to keep your own mind churning while you fulfill the Seder’s injunction to teach the story to your children."
- Jay Michaelson, The Forward
 
"I loved reading through Sharon Marson's new guide to our hagaddah. I rethought basic questions that had lost their meaning to me and I did this because she pushed me to open my heart and mind with an extreme gentleness, through her enormous humility and disarming manner, to re-experience a connection to goodness, holiness, kindness, purposefulness, and be helped through the process with the voices of our children. What a beautiful enhancement to any Seder and really for year-round."
 - Rabbi Binyamin Krauss, Principal SAR Academy

 


The Haggadah is available on:
Amazon.com
BarnesandNoble.com 
and
in Riverdale's local 
Riverdale Judaica book store.  

Pick up your copy today! 
An Environmental Message

An Environmental Message for Pesach

Cleaning:

Remember that many everyday cleaners contain harsh chemicals that are destructive to the environment, and toxic to us. Some chemicals cause only temporary irritation, while others have long lasting affects on the nervous system, and are especially dangerous for young children.

For sources of safer, easier, and cheaper alternatives made from everyday household items, go to: 
 http://www.coejl.org/

 

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