Dear Bet Torah Family:
I've been thinking a lot about time and our relationship to it. I can't remember an event that has had an impact on our relationship to time quite like this pandemic. And I think we have an opportunity to think about what that means in our lives. 

On the last day of Passover during Yizkor I shared thoughts about how watching the movie Arrival with my family shaped some of my thinking. This past Shabbat I reflected on how counting the Omer could not have come at more appropriate time and how its meaning has never been more powerful. 

Many milestones have been altered by quarantine and we are having to find different ways to celebrate. One of those is Rabbi Lisa Sacks' ordination ceremony. We are so used to referring to her as our spiritual leader that we may have forgotten she is finishing her rabbinic studies! In recognition of that we invite you to join us in celebrating this important milestone in Rabbi Sacks' and our community's life:

Rabbi Sacks' Rabbinic Thesis Presentation: Contemplative Practice in Jewish Community - 
Tomorrow, Wednesday April 22nd 4:30 - 6:00 pm. 
On what was originally scheduled to be her ordination day, Rabbi Sacks will present the work she did for her rabbinic thesis. The session will include some experience of contemplative practice and will conclude with a l'hayim. Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/93817003720

JOIN US NEXT WEEK TO CELEBRATE ISRAEL INDEPENDENCE DAY!

The Plague of/and Israeli Politics
Monday, April 27 at 12:30pm
Discussion with Shari Robins and Rabbi Aaron Brusso 
Beloved Bet Torah Israeli tour guide Shari Robins will join us from Jerusalem to talk about recent political developments in Israel in the wake of the formation of a unity government and how pandemic is playing out in a society that is simultaneously highly opinionated and individualistic and capable of mobilizing for large national efforts. During our session we will have the opportunity to participate in the memorial day siren LIVE and stand to honor those Israelis that gave their life in defense of the state and the people of Israel. 

"The Other Story" Israeli Film Discussion 
Led by Rabbi Lisa Sacks
Monday, April 27 5:00 pm. 
Watch the film on your own and then we'll gather together to discuss. The film is available to rent through   iTunes  for a nominal fee.  Zoom link:   https://zoom.us/j/96858573788
 
Two young women - one fleeing the chaos of secular materialism, the other eager to transcend her oppressive religious upbringing- unexpectedly cross paths, and the consequences are startling. Acclaimed Israeli filmmaker, Avi Nesher, delves into an intricate web of desperate parents, rebellious children and spouses locked in conflict. A masterful feat and an enormous critical and commercial hit in Israel. Here is the trailer:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0h4x3Zx4VQ

Let's Cook! Israeli Brunch on Yom Ha'Atzmaut 
Wednesday, April 29 11:00 am
With Renana Shvil 
We're making a classic Israeli lunch,   shakshuka  and   eggplant and tahini dip. Click on the item for the ingredients list. With thanks to our teacher, Renana Shvil-Tobi, owner of Fiddleheads Cooking Studio.  Zoom link:   https://zoom.us/j/98955650336

 
Worldwide Celebration of Israel's Independence Day 
Wednesday. April 29th 2:00 - 3:00 pm. 
Hosted by the Jewish Federations of North America.   https://facebook.com/events/s/worldwide-celebration-of-israe/609280006321567/?ti=icl

Happy Birthday Israel!

Aaron 
Rabbi Aaron Brusso
Bet Torah
60 Smith Avenue
Mount Kisco, NY 10549
914.666.7595