Shabbat Message - May 3, 2024

Did you know that May is Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM)? Check out the photos, videos, and historic records from the National Archives here. Take the JAHM quiz here. Read President Biden's proclamation here. Or listen to a Jewish podcast. (See below.)

Tonight's Kabbalat Shabbat service begins at 7:00pm at Holy Family Church in HMB.  Special guest Gen Slosberg will talk about what it feels like to be an outsider (see more below.) If you want to join us virtually, here is the link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/862473039

Dear CJC members & friends,

When Theodor Herzl first published Der Judenstaat (The Jewish State) in 1896, the idea that such a country would come into being was the most preposterous and improbable idea imaginable. Yet he wrote, “If you will it, it's no dream.” 

Today, almost 130 years later, the politics of grievance and division is winning in the Middle East and on college campuses. Violence, vandalism and vitriol, with the aim of forcing universities to cut ties with Israel, are not going to change anything in the minds of Israel's military strategists and will only cause further entrenchment on both sides of the conflict.

Although most student protestors want to help the people of Gaza, they would benefit from a better understanding of politics and protest and a more effective set of tactics. When you’re trying to build sympathy for a cause, tactics and outcomes matter. 

For example, if the goal is to help get food aid into Gaza, one effective strategy is to support organizations like the World Central Kitchen and IRC, which have spent the last six months working at tremendous risk to bring aid into Gaza. (You can make a secure tax-deductible contribution here.)

Hamas is a misogynistic, homophobic, antisemitic terrorist organization. Holding American and Israeli hostages is not helping the people of Gaza; it is only playing to the politics of grievance and division. Hamas has been a catastrophe for Gazans. Student protestors should be chanting, "Free Palestine from Hamas!"

But when there is no formal organizational structure to the protests, the messages can’t be controlled. The most outlandish comments, like “Zionists don’t deserve to live,” get all the attention. And without formal organizational structure, there is no unified position. Does the movement believe in a two-state solution, or does it want to eliminate Israel and ethnically cleanse the region? The loudest voices seem to favor the latter.

Last week, someone vandalized the district office of Representative John Carter, a Texas Republican, spilling fake blood and painting “Free Gaza.” This does nothing to help people in Gaza and probably diminishes support for them, yet most online comments celebrated this act of vandalism. In the politics of grievance and division, Netanyahu and Trump benefit most from such actions.

Meanwhile, protests on college campuses are taking place within progressive spaces, with progressive young protesters attempting to topple slightly less progressive university presidents and organization heads. These fights invariably divide the left, which could undermine the outcome of the next election.

The most desirable outcome for Americans, Israelis, and Palestinians is an immediate ceasefire agreement and a hostage release deal. Until that is achieved, the politics of grievance and division will continue to threaten the survival of democracy, as imperfect as it may be, in both the U.S. and Israel.

If protesters were to send a clear message to release the hostages and end the war - in spite of Netanyahu's efforts to keep it going - Israel could hold new elections and those who want peace could begin the work of establishing an independent Palestinian state alongside a Jewish and democratic state.

“If you will it, it's no dream.” That may save democracy in America as well.

Shabbat Shalom, Reb Moshe

Read "Understanding the Impact of Encampments on Jewish Students and Community," by the Bay Area's JCRC here.

Tonight's Kabbalat Shabbat Service with Gen Slosberg, at Holy Family Episcopal Church (1590 Cabrillo Hwy So, HMB) at 7:00pm

How does it feel to be an outsider? According to a recent study, a vast majority of Jews of Color experience discrimination in Jewish communal settings. Thus, it’s not surprising that many Jews of Color are less comfortable in predominantly white Jewish spaces than in (non-Jewish) BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) spaces. It’s also not surprising that they often feel disconnected from their Jewish identities when confronted by our "Ashkenormative" assumptions.  

Growing up in China as one of very few mixed-race kids, Gen Slosberg was frequently bullied and excluded. Her father descended from Ashkenazi Jews from Poland and Lithuania. After she moved to the US with her family when she was in high school, she connected with her Jewish roots. She now works as an organizer for T'ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights.

Please bring a dessert or snack for the oneg after the service. If you want to join us virtually, here is the Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/862473039

What Do I Do With All This Heritage?

Enjoy this whimsical and thought-provoking journey into the lives of Asian Jews as they reveal their true stories of holding two age-old traditions in their hearts.

See the first-ever theatre show to explore the lives of Asian American Jews, with stories that speak to anyone who’s ever balanced different sides of their identity.

Sat, 5/18 at 7:30 pm in Palo Alto / Sun, 5/19 at 5:00 pm in SF / Register here.

JOIN US FOR A SHABBAT SERVICE HONORING LISSIN LEV CHAYA

Plan to join us on Friday May 17 at 7:00pm at Holy Family Church as we celebrate the contributions Lissin has made to our community over the past eight years she has served as a soloist and service leader, and the many years prior she has been a member.

Special guests will include Rabbi Jane Litman and Rabbi Ted Riter, previous CJC rabbis who worked closely with Lissin as her mentors. Throughout her tenure, Lissin provided a sense of continuity and presence through a rapid succession of rabbis. A special presentation will be made by the CJC Board in appreciation for her many years of joyful service. Bring snacks & desserts for oneg, and join Lissin and friends for karaoke night at Cameron's afterwards!

This Sunday, May 5 - Choose from three different locations:

San Francisco - 1:00pm to 7:00pm at the SFJCC. More info here.

North Peninsula - 4:00pm to 6:00 pm at Cong Beth Jacob in Redwood City

Join us for this special opportunity to hear the insights, experiences, and wisdom of Holocaust survivors in our community. Local teens will introduce our survivor panelists. Virtual option available. More info here.

South Peninsula - 7:00pm to 8:30pm at Cong Beth Am in Los Altos Hills

Local Jewish clergy, students and musicians tell stories of survival, lead prayers, and sing to honor those lost and those who survived the Shoah. More info here.

Voices From the Israel Reform Movement: Marking Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut Together - Thursday, May 9 at 10:00am

Join the global Reform Movement in an online gathering leading to Israeli memorial and independence days. Join us for voices, music and stories from Israel, as we approach these meaningful days, and come away with inspiration, and resources to mark these days within your communities. Register here.

Yom Yisrael / Israel’s 76th Birthday - Thurs, May 9 - 5:00pm to 7:30pm

It is important to acknowledge the challenging and heartbreaking six months of conflict between Israel and Hamas, and the impact on Israelis and Palestinians. And yet, Israel encompasses a rich tapestry of culture, history, innovation, and diversity beyond its conflicts. Embracing all facets of Israeli life allows for a more holistic understanding and connection with the country and its people.

In this context, PJCC is hosting a Yom Yisrael, or Israel Day, a few days in advance of Yom HaAtzmaut. The celebration focuses on connection and reflection with activities for all ages. Proceeds from the event will support evacuated Kibbutz communities from Southern Israel, as well as “Bring Them Home: The Hostage and Missing Families Forum.”

Enjoy a secure environment for honoring and celebrating Israeli culture. Highlights Include:

• Kosher kebabs and falafel, alongside snow cones and cotton candy
• Israeli dancing, community sing-along, and children’s show with Ishay Oz
• Community art project and festive craft tables
• Sandless beach hang-out zone
• Hebrew book giveaway for adults and children
• Hostage Square area and interactive “Wall of Hope”

Email jewishlife@pjcc.org for more information, or to volunteer at this event.

Register here.

Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebration: Finding Promise in the Present - Presented by the Progressive Israel Network - Tuesday, May 14, 11am (a virtual event)

With hostages still in captivity, no end in sight to the war or humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and tensions boiling at protests in both Israel and the US, Israelis and Jews around the world will mark the establishment of the Jewish state 76 years ago.

At this moment, when so many are holding multiple hard truths simultaneously, we are proud to join our Progressive Israel Network partners, as well as Israeli activists Ami Dror and Shir Nosatzki, Rabbi Andrea London, Israeli-born singer Danny Maseng, and Congressman Jerry Nadler. Register here.

OTHER EVENTS COMING UP:

CJC's very own Michal Abaonza will be co-hosting a live show on KHMB this morning from 9-10am! She will be talking about favorite coastal restaurants. There will be a time where you can call in!! The call-in number is 650.560.9851.

You can listen to the show live on broadcast radio at 1710 AM or 100.9 FM from Montara to Moonridge. You can listen to the show live on the internet at KHMBradio.com; click the Listen Live button. If you can't listen to the show in real time, you can listen to a podcast of the show after noon on Friday at this link: http://khmbradio.com/our-shows/coastal-windage

Join CJC members Aryae Coopersmith and Wendy Berk tomorrow at 12:20pm for their virtual Torah Circle, when they will explore parashat Acharei Mot. Find info and RSVP here.

CJC members Elizabeth Ross and Cheryl Hankin will be exhibiting their artwork at the Silicon Valley Open Studios Coastside Weekend event tomorrow (Saturday) and Sunday, 11am - 5pm. Stop by to see them at the Sanchez Art Center, 1220 Linda Mar Blvd in Pacifica.

“We Were the Lucky Ones” Brings Holocaust Out of History Books, Into Our Homes

Since 1945, there have been over 440 Holocaust-related films and miniseries, and that's not counting documentaries. Holocaust films have proven to be successful with critics; Holocaust related movies earn Oscar nominations on an almost bi-yearly basis.

As the genre continues to expand, we find ourselves asking whether these stories help our understanding of these events. Is it enough for them to remind us that we must never forget the horrors of the Holocaust, or should we strive for more? Perhaps you'll be surprised by "We Were the Lucky Ones," a new limited series by Hulu.

Join an exclusive post-finale conversation with "We Were the Lucky Ones" showrunner Erica Lipez! She'll break down its incredible finale, talk about the importance of telling this kind of Holocaust story in this moment, what it was like working with the incredible and authentic Jewish cast, and answer your most pressing questions about the show.

Join us for the virtual event on Mon, May 6th at 5pm. Register here.

The Yiddish Theatre Ensemble is offering a free viewing of their 2023 live film production of "Between Worlds" through May 16. If you missed this tour de force performance by Naomi Newman and the ensemble, here is your chance to see the production. Click the viewing link (https://klezcalifornia.org/between-worlds-free-view/) and use the Password: NoShare

Meet J Street - Monday, May 13, 7-8pm in person in Half Moon Bay (or via Zoom)

Do you find yourself lost in between? In between Israel supporters without sympathy for Palestinians, and Palestinian supporters without sympathy for Jewish Israelis?

Come learn more about J Street, and if interested, get connected both with the organization and each other. This is a purely educational event, and there will be no pressure to get involved or make any donations. If people want to learn more about how to become involved, we will discuss that after this session is complete (either immediately after, if people want to stick around, or another time)

J Street organizes pro-Israel, pro-peace, pro-democracy Americans to promote US policies that embody our deeply held Jewish and democratic values and that help secure the State of Israel as a democratic homeland for the Jewish people. We believe that only a negotiated resolution agreed to by Israelis and Palestinians can meet the legitimate needs and national aspirations of both peoples.

Join us for a presentation by Hannah Green, J Street Northwest Regional Director, followed by an opportunity for questions and answers. Hannah joined J Street after nearly a decade of working in human rights and peace organizations in Israel in leadership positions. She grew up in Jerusalem and holds a masters degree in Conflict Resolution from the Hebrew University, where she focused on Israeli media representations of the conflict.

Contact Laura (hmblaura@gmail.com) to RSVP. Location or Zoom link will be provided. Presented by CJC's Community Chavurah

PJ Library, PJCC, CJC and Tkiya Come Together at Dunes Beach in HMB to celebrate Lag BaOmer on Sunday, June 2 from 11am to 1pm

Enjoy a fun-filled day with activities with songs, and a delicious bagel lunch and snacks. The event is geared towards children aged 0-8 years, with siblings also welcome to join in the festivities.

Tkiya creates music experiences that meet participants where they are to find their unique connection to Jewish culture and community.

Their friendly and welcoming Jewish educator-musician, Elana Ron who lives on the Coastside, uses original and curated songs, stories, puppets, movement, and more. Find more info and register for this community-wide event here.

Shavuot is on Wednesday, June 12, when we will have two important events:

Shavuot Climb at 10am - We'll take turns carrying our sefer Torah up Montara Mountain (in a well-protected waterproof backpack) and reenact the receiving of the Torah on Sinai. We'll celebrate and read the Torah at the top, then symbolically bring it back down into our daily lives. To RSVP, click here.

CJC Annual Membership Meeting at 7pm - Hear the highlights from the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Enjoy a year-iin-review video! Find out the results of the Board election, and recognize key CJC members, including the volunteer of the year! This is a virtual event. Zoom link and a slice of cheesecake will be provided.

The URJ Fights Climate Crisis Through Investment Strategies

The Union for Reform Judaism (URJ), the largest denomination in North American Jewish life, has taken a landmark step to encourage positive climate action through its investment strategies. In a recently adopted resolution, the URJ has committed to divesting the organization's pensions and investment plans from direct investment in fossil fuel companies; engaging in shareholder advocacy with companies adjacent to or supporting the fossil fuel industry; and adjusting its holdings in mutual funds. The resolution also makes clear the URJ's commitment to redirecting investment into the development of renewable and clean energy solutions. [You can read more here.]

Jewish Podcasts - Here are some of my favorites. What are you listening to?

Call Me Back with Dan Senor - Political and geopolitical analysis from the world's top experts, hosted by Dan Senor. The latest episode covers the issues in Israel, Gaza and the Middle East.

Can We Talk? The Jewish Women's Archive's podcast team brings you stories and conversations about Jewish women and the issues that shape our public and private lives.

Israel Story is an award-winning podcast that tells extraordinary tales about ordinary Israelis. Often called “the Israeli ‘This American Life,'” they bring you quirky, unpredictable, interesting and moving stories about a place we all think we know a lot about, but really don’t.

Jew Oughta Know covers Jewish and Israeli history, from the ancient past to the triumphs and challenges of modern Israel, in episodes of about 25 minutes. The latest episode covers how the U.S., Europe, and moderate Arab countries will need to work together to run Gaza.

Judaism Unbound explores pressing issues for 21st century American Judaism with interviews of leading thinkers, practitioners, and even "regular Jews," pushing past the bounds of what it means to be Jewish in the 21st century. A new episode every Friday.

People of the Pod is an award-winning weekly podcast analyzing global affairs through a Jewish lens, brought to you by American Jewish Committee. The latest episode featured Marnie Fienberg who founded 2ForSeder, a program to combat antisemitism and honor her mother-in-law, Joyce Feinberg, who was one of the 11 victims murdered inside Tree of Life.

Unorthodox is the universe’s leading Jewish podcast. The latest episode covers the anti-Israel protests at Columbia with students, professors, and NYC Mayor Eric Adams.

Israeli Police Arrest Seven Rabbis and Israeli Activists in Gaza Border Protest

Israeli police arrested Ayelet Waldman, a Jewish American author, and six other activists who were trying to deliver relief to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The action was organized by Rabbis for Ceasefire and Rabbis for Human Rights.

Walman's husband, Michael Chabon, also a noted novelist, expressed concern about her status on Instagram. “She was there in the company of a group of American rabbis to show the world, the people of Gaza, and their fellow Jews in Israel, and around the world what Judaism teaches: justice, lovingkindness, peace, mercy, liberation,” he said.

Rabbi Toba Spitzer, who participated in the action, wrote the following reflection:

"What is most important in this moment is that we can keep our hearts open to all those in the region who are suffering, as well as keeping our hearts open to one another. As I mentioned in the NY Times article about the action, I believe with all my heart that Israeli and Palestinian liberation, safety and wellbeing are completely bound up together. May we resist all the forces trying to separate us from one another, and from the people on the ground who need our love and our support." [You can read the rest of her reflection here.]

Why Getting Rid of Netanyahu Is Unlikely to Shift Israel’s Approach to Gaza, by Yasmeen Serhan, March 26 in TIME

Netanyahu has become widely regarded as a key obstacle to peace, but prematurely forcing him out of office won’t be an easy feat. New elections are not legally required in Israel until October 2026.

Despite growing calls for new elections, Mairav Zonszein, a Senior Israel Analyst at the International Crisis Group, says the Israeli public is unlikely to demand one until a hostage deal is reached. “Israelis are now hostage to the hostage situation,” she says. “They’re not able to really function properly on other efforts until that’s solved, so it’s hard for them to focus on the election specifically when you have this [crisis] ongoing, which Netanyahu is clearly playing very well.” [Read more here.]

Wondering what else is coming up? You can always check our website and calendar here.

Rabbi Moshe Heyn serves as CJC's Spiritual Leader, along with our Sheli'ach Tzibbur, Lissin Lev Chaya.

The Mission of CJC is to provide an inclusive community that supports connection to Jewish life, both cultural and spiritual, on the coast from Pacifica to Pescadero.

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