With summer underway, we are trying to get outside more. We were supposed to be up at Camp Ramah this summer and are also feeling the withdrawl and somewhat untethered as we find ways to recreate camp experiences at home. Sometimes it is easier than others. We're all in this together.
If you have any ideas to share, please let me know. If you need any additional ideas, we are happy to be a resource for you.
What I know for sure is that any human interaction, in person, regardless of social distancing is SO necessary and appreciated. I think we are all craving it and I'd love to find a way to see you this summer. I'm trying to figure out the best ways to engage, in small gatherings, virtually (which is still better than nothing), or some combination of the two.
Some of the ideas are a Zoom-karaoke and cupcakes, Backyard Bonfire and Big Questions, and even arranging virtual tours of Israel with Israeli tour-guides. Each program can be gear to ANY age group.
Let me know your thoughts about these ideas and please share any of your own ideas so we can work to make them happen.
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I'm happy to announce TWO more graduates from our community. Ilana Lazar received her B.A. and B.Ed. in Sociology and Education from York University. Ahsher Zeldin received his Nursing Degree from the University of Toronto.
MAZAL TOV Ilana and Ahsher! _______________________________
Our pre-Shabbat Sing-Along is on hiatus. See below and check out www.beby.org for other links and programs, such as the #myUSYfisummer Teen Summer Experiences, and other opportunities. _______________________________
While Beth Emeth is working on plans for reopening, the health and well-being of our community come first, and so the process of re-opening will be gradual and deliberate.
Given restrictions for age and health conditions, we, BEBY NEXTgen, will likely have to step it up and be on the front line of re-opening attendance. I will be in touch more as next steps are formalized.
For the official reopening statement, check out the shul website, www.beby.org .
The shul is constantly creating more virtual opportunities for learning, praying and connecting. Check out www.beby.orgfor a full listing and follow us on Facebookto keep up on everything happening at the Virtual Beth Emeth.
We, both the shul, but also more personally, Shira Rachel and I, are here for you during this COVID-19 experience. Physical and mental health are primary and we need to do everything possible and utilize every resource available to ensure that we stay healthy. Please, do not hesitate to call or email, 24/7, for any reason:
Rabbi David, Director of Ritual and NEXTgen Community rabbidavid@beby.org
TORAH TALK FOR THE TABLE with Rabbi David
Chukat/Balak - The Beauty of Jewish Places
Balak is a non-Jewish king who doesn't know about Benei Yisrael. He was scared of us because we were different.
Balak, decided to hire an evil prophet, Bilaam to curse Israel, but as much as Bilaam wanted to curse, HaShem made sure that Bilaam would bless us. He said "Mah Tovu Ohalecha Ya'akov, Mishkenotecha Yisrael - The tents of Jacob and the gathering places of Israel are beyond good".
Discussion Questions
How do you feel when you meet someone who is different?
What is a place where you see many Jews gather together?
In response to the COVID19 pandemic, all of our programs are going virtual!
YOUNG FAMILIES
ON HIATUS.
Have a wonderful Song-filled Shabbat with your own families and we will be back soon with more Songs and Stories in the weeks ahead!
TEENS
TEENS and Middle School (grade 5 - 12), I have been really feeling for you. For weeks I have been feeling the pain of camps being shut down. As we plan our own summer activities for our kids, USY has been planning #myUSYfisummer programs! There are so many unbelieveable programs being made available. Make sure you check out the site to see all the amazing things they are offering!
TEENS: we are looking to create a Senior's Line. Some of the elderly in our community need some more human engagement. Let me know if you'd be interested in speaking to an older member of our community, or even just reading to them over ZOOM.
We want to grow the program and need YOUR HELP! Email Rabbi David for more info.
NEXTgen
YOUTH
ALL SHABBAT YOUTH PROGRAMMING IS CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
Nursery (ages 0-6) Junior Congregation (7-11)
Here is the weekly Youth Program schedule. Come early for the most FUN available!
10 - 10:45 - Free play
10:45 - 10:50 - Clean up
10:50 - 11 - Tefillah
11 - 11:10 - Parshah Discussion/Story
11:10 - 11:20 - HEALTHY snack
11:20 - 11:45ish - Games/Activities
11:45ish - Go into main shul for Ein Keloheinu, Aleinu, Adon Olam
Beth Emeth's Youth Department is looking to hire energetic, engaging, and caring staff for weekly Shabbat morning youth programming. Positions are available for the Nursery (Kindergarten and younger) and Junior Congregation (Grades 1-6). These are paid positions.
Responsibilities include: -Welcoming all children into the programming space -Engaging with the children in play and other activities -Leading interactive and fun circle time (nursery) or prayers (junior congregation) -Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of participants at all times -Supervising volunteers and other Shabbat morning staff -Working together with the Youth Coordinator and other Shabbat morning Youth Department staff to execute all aspects of Shabbat morning youth programs -Attending staff training sessions as necessary (not on Saturday mornings)
Please send a cover letter and resume to Rabbi David, Director of Next-Gen at rabbidavid@beby.org. Please indicate which age group you are interested in working with in your cover letter. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING YOU SOON at the next NEXTgen EVENT!!!
Beth Emeth Bais Yehuda Synagogue 100 Elder Street Toronto, ON M3H 5G7
