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Shalom Keren,
Get ready for an epic, movie-themed Purim Carnival—PURIMFLIX! And you're invited to be the star of the show! Mark your calendars for March 24th because we're rolling out the red carpet for a blockbuster Purim Carnival. Click here for more information.
We're excited to invite you to the "I Am CBJ" Gala on May 19th at 5 pm! Your presence truly matters. To discover more about the gala, click here. Here are three impactful ways you can support this event:
Attending: Purchase tickets here.
Sponsorship: Explore numerous sponsorship opportunities—click here to find out more.
Donations: Help us gather donations from your frequented places or contribute items or services to benefit our community. Click here for our donation letter and form.
Our Mishloach Manot Project has launched! Please check your email and spam folders for a message so you can log in to the Happy Purim website. Volunteers are still needed for Purim bag deliveries and packing! We still have plenty of open slots to fill for both. Help us get all the Mishloach Manot bags out to the congregation. Please sign up to deliver here. Please sign up to fill bags here.
Lastly, join us this weekend, from March 1 to March 3, for an incredible experience with Craig Taubman, the 2024 North Peninsula Scholar in Residence. Renowned for his influential music and commitment to community and social justice through projects like the Pico Union Project, Craig brings a unique blend of spirituality and creativity. The event features workshops, services, and a concert, highlighting Chesed, social justice, and creative liturgy. Don't miss this inspiring weekend!
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Wishing you a Shavua Tov,
Keren
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Services this Week
Candle Lighting Time 🕯 5:46 pm
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Morning Minyan Service (In Person or Zoom)
7:30 am in the Beit Tefillah (Chapel)
Zoom | Meeting ID: 886 4137 2800
| Password: 111759
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Beyond Words (In Person)
10:00 am in the Beit Midrash Study Room (Back of the Chapel)
Learn More & Register Here
Babies and Blessings (Zoom)
5:00 pm
Zoom | Meeting ID: 843 2991 2210
| Password: 686981
Kabbalat Shabbat
(In Person & Zoom)
6:30 pm in the Beit Tefillah (Chapel)
Zoom | Meeting ID: 848 6294 8683
| Password: 585037
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Craig Taubman, the 2024 North Peninsula Scholar in Residence, will speak during Power Hour and join us for kiddush lunch on Shabbat, March 2nd. Read more below, under Upcoming Events.
Torah Study (In Person & Zoom)
9:00 am in the Beit Aseifa
Zoom | Meeting ID: 883 8777 3105
| Password: 554650
Junior Congregation (In Person)
10:00 am in the Beit K'nesset (Sanctuary)
Young Family Service (In Person)
11:30 am in the Beit Aseifa
Youth Live Action Role Play (LARP)
11:30 am to 12:30 pm
Learn More
Traditional Service (In Person & Zoom)
10:00 am in the Beit K'nesset (Sanctuary)
Zoom | Meeting ID: 893 3029 2653
| Password: 407603
Shabbat Club (In Person)
for potty-trained kids ages 3-8
10:00 am to 12:45 pm at the educational wing, room #14
While you attend services, drop off your children at no charge. Please be sure your child brings a water bottle and snack.
Power Hour+ (In Person & Zoom)
11:30 am in the Beit Tefillah (Chapel)
Zoom | Meeting ID: 826 8123 2556
| Password: 693156
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No Judaism & Art with Bill Futornick this Wednesday, February 28. | |
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Life Line Screening, a leading provider of preventive health screenings, will offer affordable, non-invasive, and painless health screenings here at CBJ on Thursday, February 29, 2024. These screenings can help identify risks for stroke, heart disease, and other chronic conditions early on, providing valuable insights about your well-being.
Life Line Screening aims to provide advanced yet affordable and convenient health screenings that supplement your traditional healthcare. Don't miss out on this opportunity to prioritize your health and well-being!
Register now to secure your spot! Call toll-free at 1-844-591-7160, text "circle" to 216-279-1607, or register online at https://llsa.social/HC.
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Beyond Words: Torah-Inspired Creativity
with Batya Dale (In Person)
Spring 2024 Series, Next on Friday, March 1st
Every First Friday from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm in the Beit Midrash Study Room
Torah is filled with stories to help us understand and celebrate who we are as individuals and as a people! Bring your love of Torah, your curiosity, and your compassion; have fun; deepen your Jewish identity and connection with one another, and make a piece of original Jewish art to take home (or maybe to display at CBJ). All are welcome; no artistic skill needed.
Learn More & Register Here
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2024 North Peninsula Scholar in Residence Craig Taubman
Friday, March 1 – Sunday, March 3
The North Peninsula Jewish Community is hosting Craig Taubman as the 2024 North Peninsula Scholar in Residence from March 1 to March 3. Craig Taubman is renowned for his spiritual and inspiring music that has influenced the American Jewish liturgical scene for years. His contributions include the Pico Union Project, fostering community and social justice through creativity and entrepreneurship. The event includes workshops, services, and a concert emphasizing Chesed, social justice, and creative liturgy.
View The Flyer Here ❖ Learn More ❖ Register Here
Friday, March 1
- Social Impact Workshop: "Scaling Chesed" at PJCC, 1:00 - 2:30 pm
- Shabbat Service with PTBE Clergy and the Hallelu Band at Peninsula Temple Beth El, 6:30 - 8:30 pm
Saturday, March 2
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Service & Lunch at CBJ, 11:30 am – 2:00 pm, at Power Hour (In Person or Zoom)
- Evening Concert with Duvid Swirsky at Peninsula Temple Sholom, 7:00- 9:00 pm
Sunday, March 3
- Creative Liturgy Workshop at Peninsula Sinai Congregation, 10:00 - 11:30 am
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Unity March Standing Together Against Antisemitism (In Person)
Sunday, March 3, from 1:30 to 4:30 pm, in San Francisco
March from the Embarcadero to Civic Center
In response to escalating acts against the Jewish community, Jews and allies throughout Northern California will gather for an unprecedented march to champion the values of inclusion, respect, belonging, and democracy - standing united against Antisemitism. Together, we will seek to foster understanding, connect diverse communities, and reinforce our commitment to a safe world, free from fear and prejudice.
Learn More Here
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"After October 7: Bearing Witness and Fighting Back"
A Conversation with Israeli Activist Nitsana Darshan-Leinter
Thursday, March 7, 2024, from 7:30 to 9:00 pm, at the Freidenrich Conference Center (Building F), 4th Floor • $20 • Contact: Inbal Segev | [email protected]
On March 7, 2024, at the Freidenrich Conference Center, Israeli activist attorney Nitsana Darshan-Leitner, known for her 20-year legal battle against Israel's foes through Shurat HaDin, will discuss her work in combating terror financing, BDS campaigns, and lawfare threats. Darshan-Leitner has secured significant compensations for terror victims, initiated campaigns against terrorists' use of social media, and achieved notable victories against BDS movements and in favor of Israeli victims. Co-sponsored by the OFJCC Palo Alto JCC and Congregation Beth Jacob, this event highlights her contributions to fighting terrorism and antisemitism legally.
Learn More & Register Here
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CBJ Jewish Book Group (Zoom)
Becoming Elijah: Prophet of Transformation by Daniel C. Matt
Friday, March 16, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm
Email David Steffen to get the Zoom link for this meeting.
Becoming Elijah: Prophet of Transformation" by Daniel Matt invites you on a journey through the mystical and the divine. Uncover the secrets of Elijah, a prophet who defied death, ascended in a whirlwind, and left a legacy of spiritual rebirth. Matt's deep dive into ancient texts reveals insights into transformation and enlightenment. Not just a book, but an experience, it's for anyone seeking to explore the depths of their faith and the boundaries of the human spirit. Dive in and be transformed.
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Jewish Ethics and Modernity (In Person)
Four-Part Series (2 Remain) with CBJ Clergy and Lay Experts
Shabbat Afternoons, 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm:
Business Ethics with Bill Futornick & Jeremy Gurewitz
Saturday, March 16
Legal Ethics with Rabbi Ilana & Elana Freedman
Saturday, April 20
This innovative Shabbat learning series explores ethical dilemmas at work through Jewish principles and professional codes. Delve into the intersection of Jewish ethics and secular professional responsibility in Artificial Intelligence, Medicine, Business, and Law. Co-led by CBJ clergy and expert congregants, these sessions offer ample discussion time. Join us for a delicious kiddush lunch and engaging conversations—open to all!
Register Here
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Volunteer Opportunity! (In Person)
Sunday, March 31, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm
San Mateo County Navigation Center in Redwood City
Learn More & Sign Up Here
CBJ will serve dinner on Sunday, March 31 (Easter), at the San Mateo County Navigation Center in Redwood City. The Navigation Center provides interim housing and many health & counseling services to the homeless community. The Center has a large kitchen and dining area as well as a helpful group of staff members. Since the staff does most of the cooking, we do not need to bring any main dishes; however, we are asking volunteers to bring side dishes or desserts. We will also need a few volunteers to set up and serve dinner. A sign-up link will be posted in the next few weeks. Email Bonnie Alesna with any questions.
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Krav Maga at CBJ (In Person)
Postponed to April 14, at 4:00 pm
Come join us for a free introductory Krav Maga lesson! Learn practical self-defense skills developed by the IDF. All ages and fitness levels are welcome! 20 spots will be available, first come, first serve.
Sponsored by the CBJ Mini-Grant Program.
Email Organizer Melissa Bedard Here
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Mondays with Meaning with Rabbi Ilana
(In-Person or Zoom)
Mondays, 10:30 am in the Beit Aseifa
The Monday class began a close study of the book of Esther on January 15. If you thought the megillah is just a silly children's tale, you need to read it again. This dark story with a happy ending is a lens onto our deepest fears, and a reminder of our hidden capacities.
Zoom | Meeting ID: 839 3579 6160
| Password: 613
Hebrew Text Study with Rabbi Ilana (Zoom)
Thursdays, 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm
This class deals with classic texts in the original Hebrew, focusing as much on language as on content. In this new round, we will be studying Midrash Rabbah. Please email Marcia Chaiken or Rabbi Ilana to get the Zoom link if you'd like to join the class.
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Resilience Through Jewish Joy's Israeli Dancing (In Person)
Every First Thursday at 7:30 pm,
Next on March 7th at Etz Chayim:
4161 Alma St., Palo Alto, CA 94306
Join us as we head to Etz Chayim for Nirkoda Israeli Dance Class. We can arrange carpools for those who need them. The cost of admission will be covered for the first 5 people to sign up thanks to the CBJ Mini Grant awarded to Resilience Through Jewish Joy. We are going to try to have a group of CBJ members attend regularly on the first Thursday of every month.
Please RSVP Here ◇ More Details Here
For weekly updates, join the Nirkoda Mailing List and WhatsApp Group
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New Hebrew Reading Classes
We will begin a new series of Hebrew Reading classes in March. If you are interested in learning to read Hebrew, or to practice improving your reading fluency and understanding, please email the instructor, Dr Yohanan Poole by clicking here.
In your email, please inform us which days & times you can meet, and the level of instruction you desire. Please also note if you prefer classes that are in-person at CBJ and/or online. We will plan according to your feedback!
If you are interested in the class, please discuss it with Yohanan, at Kiddush after services each Saturday.
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Judaism & Art with Bill Futornick (In Person & Zoom)
Wednesday Mornings: Next Class on March 6, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am at CBJ
Join our new weekly adult class in exploring Torah and Tanakh stories through generations of art—Jewish and secular—forming visual interpretations, a kind of visual Midrash. These powerful images guide our understanding, allowing us to create our own interpretations. Join us in person at CBJ or via Zoom each Wednesday at 10:30 am. Please follow this link to join on zoom.
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Mah Jong Players Welcome!
Thursdays | 12:30 to 3:00 pm | CBJ Lobby
Embrace the thrill of every tile at our Mah Jong rendezvous! Dive into an engaging afternoon of strategic plays and camaraderie every Thursday from 12:30 to 3:00 pm in the vibrant CBJ Lobby. Join fellow enthusiasts for an enriching and enjoyable experience that brings the game to life.
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TIKVAH'S UNDERSTANDING AND COMBATING ANTISEMITISM:
Exploring Identity, Countering Stereotypes, and Empowering the Next Generation
Join us for our ongoing transformative journey as we delve into multiple viewpoints of the critical issue of antisemitism and its impact on our society.
We have been exploring the various views on the manifestations of antisemitism, from its historical roots to its manifestations today and its presence on college campuses. Through these engaging discussions and practical strategies, we aim to not only understand and combat this persistent prejudice but also empower ourselves and our teens with a sense of Jewish pride and resilience. Together, we can create a more inclusive and tolerant world. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the solution. Join us for these important conversations, and let's make a difference together.
ADULT WORKSHOPS
TEEN WORKSHOPS
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Sisterhood: Women's Book Group (In Person)
CBJ Women’s Book Group will meet Wednesday, March 13 to discuss the book Hello Darkness My Old Friend by Stanford D.Greenberg. There will be no April meeting due to some members traveling and Passover. We will meet May 8 to discuss the book North Woods by Daniel Mason. Fran Aron will lead the discussion. All book discussion meetings take place in the conference room at CBJ.
Here are our possible books for the next 5 months:
- The Covenant of Water: A. Verghese
- Lady Tan's Circle of Women: Lisa See
- The Woman They Could Not Silence: Kate Moore
- Dapper Dan: Made in Harlen: A Memoir by Daniel R Day
- The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store: James McBride
- Girls Like Us: Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Carly Simon
- The Journey of a Generation: Sheila Weller
Let us know if you would like to read any of these books.
For more information on or questions about Sisterhood at CBJ, please email Ora Chaiken.
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Congregation Beth Jacob is an inclusive, vibrant community that embraces the foundational Jewish value of Chesed, loving kindness. CARES seeks to strengthen the fabric of the community for members to both give and receive. We support community members in times of illness and in times of loss. If you need support, don't hesitate to contact us; at CBJ, we often say Hineni or "I am here." For CARES, Hinenu; We are here to support you in any of your needs.
If you need help or would like to offer support to someone else, please contact Cantor Barbara or Linda Softley.
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Please consider donating to the Cares Committee Fund.
Your donations make a direct impact on our ability to provide food and temporary assistance to those in our CBJ community facing illness or challenging circumstances. Together, we can be a source of hope and love for our fellow congregants in need. Your generosity is a powerful expression of our shared commitment to Chesed and community.
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Enrollment for the 2023-2024 School year is open! No child will be turned away.
Our teachers and staff have been working hard on creating engaging and educational curricula for all of our students.
Email Rabbi Ilana to learn more.
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We're thrilled to announce that our Preschool Open Enrollment has officially begun! Click here to view the flyer. If you are interested in learning more or scheduling a tour, please do not hesitate to email our Preschool Director, Ann Cauterucci. Additionally, we would like to remind everyone that our Enrichment Classes will commence when school resumes in January. Get ready for an exciting new year of learning and growth! | |
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Adult Learning
The Adult Learning Committee is looking to expand. Anyone interested in joining can attend and contact Rabbi Nat Ezray at [email protected] for further information. Meetings will be alternated monthly between daytime and evening.
The only prerequisites for our Adult Learning classes and programs are a passion for learning and an inquisitive mind. Learners at all levels are welcome and encouraged to join. You don't need any prior knowledge (of text, history, or Hebrew). Come with an open mind and bring a friend!
All CBJ Adult Learning programs are free of cost and open to both CBJ members and our broader community. If you would like to make a donation to support our ongoing programming,
Click Here and select adult education from the dropdown menu.
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Join CBJ's Social Justice Group
CBJ is a diverse community. Our Social Justice group reflects one of many approaches to realizing the deeper values we all share. If you would like to get involved in advocating for housing rights, immigrant rights, reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and other politically touched issues, please complete this form.
Our community includes a range of views about the best path towards a more compassionate and safe society. The Social Justice group acts from a perspective that is not representative of our entire community but does resonate with many. For more information, email Nancy Nagel or Linda Leeb.
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Refugee Welcome Circle Volunteer Drivers Needed
CBJ congregants are partnering with Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley (JFSSV) to sponsor and resettle a refugee family here on the mid-Peninsula later this summer or fall. Our biggest challenges will be finding affordable housing and employment opportunities. Please email Jon Rose if you would like to help.
At this time, we need several people to sign up as drivers to occasionally take refugee family members to appointments, shopping, school, the DMV, etc. As needs arise, we will text our volunteers to see who is available on the given day. We need drivers to sign up now so that required background checks can be completed by JFSSV before the refugees arrive (likely in August or September). To volunteer as a driver, please email your name and cell number to Linda Leeb. Thank you for considering this valuable opportunity to help asylum seekers find refuge here!
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Recommended Reading
Curated by Rabbi Ezray
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Sunday, March 24, 2024, at 3:45 pm
Purimflix: The Movie-Themed Purim Carnival
Sunday, March 31, 2024, at 3 pm
Teitelbaum Lecture
With the author of Becoming Elijah: Prophet of Transformation Daniel C. Matt
Tuesday, April 23, 2024
Passover Second Night Community Seder
Sunday, April 28, 2024, at 3 pm
Jack & Sam Film Screening
Sunday, May 5, 2024
Yom Hashoa Program
Sunday, May 19, 2024
CBJ Gala
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From Our Community Partners
Events & Organizations
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On March 2nd in Menlo Park, there will be an exclusive screening of Eli Steele's documentary "Killing America," examining the effects of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs in California schools, notably leading to increased antisemitism and anti-Asian sentiment. The film features insights from local school board meetings, interviews with parents, teachers, and students from SUHSD and SFUSD, including Lowell alumni. Steele's film criticizes the decline in meritocracy and individuality, linking it to the rise in targeted hate within schools. The event promises a deep dive into the documentary's themes, with Steele discussing his creative process, against a backdrop of growing tension and controversy in Bay Area education.
Get Tickets Here
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Israel At War – A Pivotal Moment For The Middle East
Tickets — Tue, Mar 5, 2024 at 7:30 PM
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Peninsula Multifaith Coalition
Click HERE to learn more.
Berkeley Moshav
Putting a Jewish twist on the cohousing (a form of intentional community) model. We are the first cohousing community in an urban setting that is rooted in Jewish tradition and values and encompasses all levels of observance, ages, and walks of life. Our goal is to create a vibrant multigenerational community where everyone can participate in the rhythms of Jewish life in a context that includes a wide spectrum of Jewish observance.
Click HERE for more information.
Jewish Community Mentorship Program
The Jewish Community Mentorship Program offers a 6-month mentee-driven mentorship program for Jewish young adults in the San Francisco Bay Area. The program provides personal, professional and career development through a mentorship experience with Jewish business and community leaders. This program is a collaboration between J Leaders and the Jewish High Tech Community (JHTC).
Click HERE for more information.
Center for Children and Youth Workshops
Click HERE for more information.
The Jewish Coalition for Literacy Accepting New Tutors
Click HERE for more information.
HIP Housing Home Sharing Program
If you have an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) for rent, please click HERE to learn more.
Upcoming Events with Shalom Hartman Institute
Filter by "Location: Bay Area" and "Time: This Month"
Click HERE.
Widow/Widower Cafe on the Peninsula
Click HERE to view a flyer about this important monthly support group.
Click HERE to get involved. (Don't use the link in the flyer.)
Hebrew Free Loan Disaster Relief Loans
Click HERE for more information.
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IN MEMORIAM
We keep in our thoughts those that have passed in the last month:
Sooze Protter
Charlotte Scheier
Allan Blum
May their memories be a blessing.
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