From the Rabbi’s Desk
The Flowering of Hope
There are more images from my recent visits to Israel than I can possibly describe. However, the power of the contrast of the two memorials depicted in these pictures arrest my heart.
The Nova Festival site was the scene of a particularly cruel mass attack on October 7, 2023.
• 378 festival goers were killed
• 44 were taken hostage They were there to party, to enjoy the camaraderie of people from around the world. Instead, they met terror. The devastating scene is memorialized with a staff and a flag for each one of them.
But at the same time and in the same place, there is a sculpture of the Kalaniot , the beautiful red wildflowers that blanket the Negev region each Spring. They symbolize a new beginning, a way forward.
It’s a compelling combination – an honoring of the dead and a stubborn insistence on embracing renewal. So much of this, of course, is what is happening in Israel to this day with the ongoing war in Gaza and all of its painful challenges.
In a broader sense, I hope we might take this message to heart in each of our lives. Whatever loss, suffering,
and fragility we endure, we are told by our tradition that the flowers of possibility can bloom again in our hearts and our lives. As our prayers state, ZochreinuL’ChayimMelechChafetzBachayim Remember us God into life you who desires life.
As always, the Shofar directs the journey. The broken notes, Shevarimand Teruahare preceded and followed by the Tekiah , the whole note of hope. And we always end our services with TekiahGedolahthe great Tekiah , the great hope. We arise to walk proudly, stronger, into our future.
Through our process of reflection, repentance, and change, may we see a blossoming of hope and rebirth in our lives, for our people, and for the world as we enter the New Year of 5786.
We at Beth El invite you to do so together in our congregational home. Together we draw on our collective strength, wisdom, and resolve. Let us all come together, it is why we are here.
From all of us at Beth El, let this be a year of hope, health, strength, and peace.
Beth El Temple is blessed to have recently obtained a Holocaust Torah with a fascinating history. Visit BethElWestHartford.org/ HolocaustTorah to learn more.
~JimRosen
Reflections from the President
As the High Holidays approach, we are invited into a season of reflection, return, and renewal. These sacred days offer us more than a ritual obligation –they present a powerful opportunity for emotional reset and spiritual growth, for asking who we are, who we hope to become, and how we can grow as individuals and as a community.
The world beyond our sanctuary often feels overwhelming. From the constant churn of the 24-hour news cycle to the deep divisions that seem to define our public discourse, it is easy to feel disoriented and discouraged. Yet in a world that feels increasingly divided, our synagogue stands as a center of belonging, where each voice matters and each soul is welcome. At Beth El, we do not face life’s challenges alone. Here, we find a home – a place to pray, to learn, to celebrate, and to support one another.
We are deeply fortunate to be led by Rabbis Rosen, Zerin, and Sowalsky, and Dr. Krigel. Their tireless dedication has made our synagogue not only a Community YouCanBelieveIn but also a sanctuary from the unrelenting barrage of bad news and worse ideas. Their wisdom, compassion, and leadership continue to inspire us and hold us steady in uncertain times.
As we gather this year, I invite you to be present – with your heart, your time, and your energy. Our community grows stronger when more of us step forward – not only to attend, but to volunteer, to lend our talents, and to support the sacred work we do together. Whether helping a fellow congregant find a seat at services, providing a means of transportation to and from services, or offering a warm welcome to a new member, your contribution matters.
This season also calls on us to look outward. We are one people, bound together by history, destiny,
Safeguard Our Community with High Holiday Security Training
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
LOCATION: West Hartford (address provided upon registration); community program REGISTRATION REQUIRED: by 9/8, jewishhartford.org/highholidaysecurity Being prepared for a serious threat, however unlikely, is an act of care for yourself, your family, and our broader Jewish community. Federation's Regional Security Advisor, John Colangelo, will teach proactive preparation and the basic principles of situational awareness, joined by representatives from the FBI, Connecticut State Police Hate Crimes Unit, and the West Hartford Police Department.
and faith. At the time of this writing, our brethren in Israel have successfully withstood existential threats from their enemies in the region but still face the considerable challenge posed by the international community for having done so, as well as the physical and emotional scars of October 7 and its aftermath.
Moreover, the fate of the hostages still held in Gaza remains deeply in our hearts and minds, a painful and urgent reminder of the work still unfinished. May our personal renewal spark a broader commitment to compassion, justice, and solidarity with our extended Jewish family and for all those seeking safety, dignity and hope.
On behalf of my fellow officers and the entire board of trustees, I wish you L’ShanahTovahTikateivu . May you and your loved ones be inscribed for a year of health, peace, and meaning – and may we find strength and joy in walking this path together.
~PhilSchulz
Beth El is Warm and Welcoming
The sign at our front entrance states "All are welcome." Torah instructs "You shall not wrong nor oppress a stranger..." (Exodus 22:21). If we're required to be kind to strangers, how much more so is the mandate to be considerate of fellow Beth El members and staff?
About 30% of the U.S. population is sensitive to scented products on other people; some even have allergic reactions. Please avoid wearing fragrances and any scented products at Beth El.
Rosh Hashanah
Livestream/Zoom: All services in the Sanctuary and Chapel will be available online.
Community Selichot SATURDAY, SEPT 13
7:43 PM – HavdallahCandle
8:00 PM – Program
9:00 PM – Service
Rosh Hashanah, Erev 1
MONDAY, SEPT 22
5:00 PM – 5:30 PM Puppet Making Family Prog.
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM Mincha & Festival Ma’ariv
6:30 PM – CandleLighting
Rosh Hashanah, Day 1 TUESDAY, SEPT 23
8:30 AM – 12:45 PM Sanctuary Service
8:30 AM – 12:45 PM Outdoor Service
9:30 AM – 1:00 PM Babysitting
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM Family Service: gr. 1-5
10:30 AM – 10:45 AM Snack
10:45 AM – 11:05 AM Puppet Show
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Teen Program: gr. 6-8, 9-12
11:05 AM – 12:45 PM Drop-off Programs: gr. 1-5
11:30 AM – 12:45 PM Mazal Tots: 0-6 y.o.
Rosh Hashanah, Erev 2 TUESDAY, SEPT 23
5:00 PM – 5:30 PM Tashlich
5:45 PM – 6:30 PM Festival Mincha & Ma’ariv
7:26 PM – CandleLighting
Rosh Hashanah, Day 2
WEDNESDAY, SEPT 24
8:30 AM – 12:45 PM Sanctuary Service
9:30 AM – 11:00 PM Playroom Open
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Family Service: gr 1-5
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Mazal Tots: 0-6 y.o.
5:30 PM – 6:00 PM Festival Mincha and Ma’ariv with Special Shofar Service
7:24 PM – Havdallah
Apples & Honey:
Socialize after morning services on both days of Rosh Hashanah.
SPONSOR: Men’s Club
Shofar:
Will be sounded in all morning services and children’s programs on both days of Rosh Hashanah.
Community Selichot
The Emanuel Synagogue, 160 Mohegan Dr, West Hartford
The period before the High Holidays is a time of soul-searching and reflection as we each prepare for the magnitude of the Days of Awe.
We will gather with the Greater Hartford Jewish community.
Rosh Hashanah – Day 1
Sanctuary Service: led by Rabbi Rosen and Cantorial Soloist Rabbi Zerin, accompanied by our choir and organ.
Outdoor Service: led by members Susan Gold and Jason Kay, without choir or organ. (In case of rain or uncomfortable heat or cold, this service will move inside.) Approximate
Torah Service 9:00 AM 9:40 AM
Shofar Service 10:00 AM 10:15 AM Musaf Service 10:15 AM 11:15 AM Rabbi’s Sermon 12:00 PM 10:30 AM
Tashlich Program
25 Huntington Drive, West Hartford (rain date: 9/24, 4:30 PM)
A 13th century custom of symbolically casting off our sins by tossing bread into running water.
Please bring bread crumbs for you and your family to toss!
Rosh Hashanah – Erev 2
Festival Mincha and Ma’ariv with Special Shofar Service. Bring your own shofar!
Rosh Hashanah – Day 2
Sanctuary Service: led by Rabbi Rosen and Cantorial Soloist Rabbi Zerin, accompanied by our choir; but no organ.
Outdoor Service: not offered on RH–Day 2
All descriptions for Family and Children’s services and programs are detailed on pages 8-9.
Everyone is welcome at every service, but some are designed for a particular audience.
Beth El Temple West Hartford, CT www.bethelwesthartford.org 860.233.9696
Yom Kippur
Shabbat Shuvah SATURDAY, SEPT 27
9:30 AM – 12:15 PM LakeNordenBadger Shabbat Services
12:15 PM – Congregational Lunch
12:30 PM – Mincha
Cemetery Service SUNDAY, SEPT 28
10:00 AM – Service
Yom Kippur, Kol Nidrei
WEDNESDAY, OCT 1
1:00 PM – Pre-Yom Kippur Mincha
6:00 PM – 8:30 PM Sanctuary Service
6:00 PM – 7:45 PM Chapel Service
6:14 PM – CandleLighting (lightYizkorcandlefirst)
Yom Kippur, Day THURSDAY, OCT 2
8:30 AM – 1:30 PM Sanctuary Service
8:30 AM – 1:30 PM Outdoor Service
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM Mazal Tots: 0-6 y.o.
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM Family Service: gr. 1-5
10:30 AM – 1:30 PM Babysitting
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM Snack and Art Project
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Drop-off Programs: gr. 1-5
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Teen Programs: gr. 6-8, 9-12
12:30 AM – 1:30 PM Supervised Play: gr. 1-5
Yom Kippur, Neilah THURSDAY, OCT 2
4:15 PM – Festival Mincha
5:30 PM – Neilah & Ark Visitations
7:10 PM – Festival Ends
7:10 PM – Havdallah and Final Shofar Blast
Neilah: After the final shofar, enjoy a sweet on your way out.
SPONSOR: Women’s Network
Yom Kippur – Neilah (Concluding evening service)
Shabbat Shuvah (Shabbat of Return)
Lake Norden Badger: Rabbi Rosen’s annual tribute to small town, midwestern, Jewish communities enhances this traditional service marking the Shabbat between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
A uniquely themed lunch follows, prepared by Beth El’s special cooking crew.
Dress casually! Wear your favorite football team's cap, a flannel shirt, and blue jeans!
Cemetery Service
Beth El Cemetery, Jackson Street, Avon
Our clergy lead a brief service honoring our beloved departed and offer graveside prayers.
Yom Kippur – Kol Nidrei
Sanctuary Service: led by Rabbi Rosen and Cantorial Soloist Rabbi Zerin, accompanied by our choir and organ.
Chapel Service: led by Rabbi Howard Sowalsky and Susan Gold, without choir or organ.
Yom Kippur – Day
Sanctuary Service: led by Rabbi Rosen and Cantorial Soloist Rabbi Zerin, accompanied by our choir and organ.
Outdoor Service: led by members Susan Gold and Jason Kay, without choir or organ.
(In case of rain or uncomfortable heat or cold, this service will move inside.)
Approximate start times:
Torah Service 9:15 AM 9:45 AM President’s Address 10:15 AM 11:00 AM Musaf Service 10:30 AM 11:15 AM Rabbi’s Sermon 11:30 AM 10:30 AM Yizkor Service 11:45 AM 10:45 AM
This is literally the “closing of the gates.” The Ark is kept open for this final service on Yom Kippur, and we have one last chance to seek repentance and be sealed in the Book of Life. All who wish to come up to the Ark for personal moments of reflection and prayer are encouraged to do so; take a moment to find peace and share the beauty of the Torah with your loved ones.
Familyunitsofallagesandconfigurations(includingnon-Jewishfamilymembers)can eachhaveaprivatemomentattheark.
Sukkot
Sukkah: Come and spend time in the sukkah! You’re welcome to enjoy our sukkahwhenever the building is open, and the sukkahis available.
Sukkot, Erev
MONDAY, OCT 6
5:30 PM – Mincha and Festival Ma’ariv
5:30 PM – Shababa, see p 9
6:00 PM – Pizza in the Hut
6:07 PM – CandleLighting
Sukkot, Day 1
TUESDAY, OCT 7
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM Festival Services, with October 7 memorial
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM Playroom Open
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM Family Service
12:00 PM – Kiddush
12:15 PM – Festival Mincha
NO EVENING SERVICE
7:05 PM – CandleLighting
Sukkot, Day 2
WEDNESDAY, OCT 8
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM Festival Services
12:00 PM – Kiddush
12:15 PM – Festival Mincha NO EVENING SERVICE
7:01 PM – Havdallah
Sukkot, Chol HaMoed
THURSDAY-SUNDAY, OCT 9-12
REGULAR DAILY AND SHABBAT SERVICE AND PROGRAM TIMES
THURSDAY, OCT 9
6:00 PM – 8:30 PM Sukkahfest, see p. 17
SUNDAY, OCT 12
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM Sukkah Hop
7:00 PM – Sleepover in the Sukkah
All descriptions for Family and Children’s services and programs are detailed on pages 8-9.
Lulav and Etrog: To order your set, contact Rivka Dvorin, Folrivka@gmail.com, 860-710-6090, by Sept 18.
Pizza in the Hut
Come to the Beth El sukkahafter evening services to celebrate Sukkot with food, singing, and community.
COST: $5/pizza eater
REGISTER: tinyurl.com/BEPizzaHut2025, by 9/29
Sukkot – Day 1
On this holiday that embraces both the joy of the harvest and the fragility of dwelling in a sukkah , we will also celebrate our connections with our Israeli brothers and sisters – especially those who live on KibbutzSufa– while also commemorating the tragic events that took place on this very date two years ago.
Sukkot – Day 2
A continuation of this joyful festival, complete with Hallel , reading selections from the Book of Kohelet (Ecclesiastes), and the shaking of the lulavand etrog
Sukkah Hop
Several Beth El families will host us in their sukkot as we enjoy the sixth day of Sukkot and participate in the mitzvah of eating in a sukkah .
COST: free, but registration is required
RSVP: tinyurl.com/SukkahHop2025, by 10/7 at noon
Sleepover in the Sukkah
Come to a sleepover in the sukkah! We will spend quality time in the sukkah , have fun and bond as a group, and then sleep indoors.
Begins right after the Sukkah Hop and pickup is on Monday at 9am; no school that day!
High School students are invited to register to lead special programming.
AGE GROUP: grades 3-12, open to all in the community
COST: $20, includes snacks and breakfast
REGISTER: tinyurl.com/BETSleepover2025
QUESTIONS: Dr. Eliyahu Krigel, ekrigel@bethelwh.org
BRING: sleeping bag, pillow, change of clothes, plus anything else you need for an overnight
Shemini Atzeret & Simchat Torah
Shemini Atzeret, Erev MONDAY, OCT 13
7:00 AM – Hoshanah Rabbah
5:30 PM – Mincha and Festival Ma’ariv 5:55 PM – CandleLighting
Shemini Atzeret, Day TUESDAY, OCT 14
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM Festival Services (Yizkor,11am)
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM Playroom Open
12:00 PM – Kiddush
12:15 PM – Festival Mincha
Simchat Torah, Erev TUESDAY, OCT 14
5:30 PM – Festival Ma’ariv & Simchat Torah Celebration
6:54 PM – CandleLighting
Simchat Torah, Day WEDNESDAY, OCT 15
9:30 AM – 12:30 PM Festival Services
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM Family Service
12:15 PM – Kiddush
12:45 PM – Festival Mincha NO EVENING SERVICE
6:50 PM – FestivalEnds
Machzor Pick-Up
If you will be livestreaming High Holiday services and need to borrow a Machzor, please come to the office to check one out during the hours noted below. There is no need to reserve a copy.
Name Tag Pick-Up
As was done last year, you will pick up your household’s nametags and lanyards upon checking in for High Holiday services. If you would like to pick yours up ahead of time, they will be available in our office during the hours noted below. If you still have last year’s lanyards, please bring them back to the office.
PICKUP HOURS:
Monday, Sept. 8 – Friday, Sept. 19
Mon-Thu: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Hoshanah Rabbah
The seventh day of Sukkot is a semi-holiday in its own right. A hoshanahis a liturgical poem calling upon God to rescue and redeem the Jewish people, primarily by sending rain. All seven hoshanot prayers recited during Sukkot are recited in seven hakafot(processions), around the chapel at this service.
At the conclusion of the seven processions, a special ritual is conducted in which the branches of the willow (aravot)are struck. This is a symbolic attempt to rid ourselves of any remaining sins (the leaves representing these transgressions) that might influence God’s decision to send the seasonal rains.
Shemini Atzeret
A bittersweet holiday in which we begin to wind down the High Holiday season. We celebrate with Hallel, and through the recitation of Yizkor we remember loved ones we have lost. We will also mark the Yahrzeit of victims of October 7.
Simchat Torah
The capstone of the High Holiday season, we complete our journey through the arc of the Fall holidays with a celebration of the Torah.
At both the evening and morning services, Hakafot involve singing and dancing around the sanctuary with all our Torah scrolls.
The evening will include a the First Grade Torah Ceremony and ice cream (celebrating the Torah should be sweet, after all!), plus a special opportunity for children in our community to read Torah.
The joy continues on Simchat Torah morning with more singing and dancing, a blessing for new babies, and the traditional recognition of three special honorees.
In the morning service we read both the end (the last chapter of Deuteronomy) and the beginning of the Torah (the first chapter of Genesis).
CONTACT FOR FIRST GRADERS: Liz DePalma, edepalma@bethelwh.org, if you have a 1st grader (at any school) to be sure that they are on our list to receive a mini-Torah.
CONTACT FOR TORAH READERS: Dr. Eliyahu Krigel, ekrigel@bethelwh.org.
Youth, Teen, and Family Services & Programs
Erev Rosh Hashanah 0-6 years old 6-12 years old Teens
5:00 PM Puppet Making Family Program 5:30 PM Outdoor Service for all
Rosh Hashanah Day 1 9:30 AM Babysitting 11:30 AM Mazal Tots
AM Snack
AM Puppet Show
Rosh Hashanah Day 2 9:30 AM Playroom
10:30 AM Snack and Art Project
Tots
Yom Kippur Day
AM Mazal Tots 10:30 AM Babysitting
10:30 AM Snack and Art Project
AM Family Service 11:00 AM Drop-off Program 12:30 PM Supervised Play 11:00 AM Teen Programs
All Family and Children’s services and programs are described on these two pages, even if not in the chart above. They are listed in alphabetical order
Babysitting
0-6 year olds
TUE, 9/23 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
THU, 10/2 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
NOTE: parent/guardian must stay in one of the services
SNACKS: will be provided each day PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED: tinyurl.com/5786Babysitting
Drop-off Programs
Grades 1-5
TUE, 9/23 11:05 AM – 12:45 PM
THU, 10/2 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Drop your learners off for rotations based on Tefillah, Tzedakah, and Teshuva. Our youth will return, reflect, and renew themselves by looking inward with a clear heart, mind, and soul.
REGISTRATION: tinyurl.com/5786Dropoff
Family Service
Geared to grades 1-5 and their grown-ups
TUE, 9/23 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
WED, 9/24 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
THU, 10/2 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
TUE, 10/7 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM WED, 10/15 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
On Rosh Hashanah we come together to focus on Tefillah, Tzedakah, and Teshuva. Let’s return as one community to our best selves and welcome in the holiday by sounding the shofar.
On Yom Kippur, the discussion will focus on the power of an apology, with prayer and a time to reflect on how we might have missed the mark this year so we can move forward with greater clarity together
On Sukkot, we will reap the rewards of our labors by harvesting our internal fruits together as one community.
On Simchat Torah, sing and dance with the Torah! We will pray together with a full heart and see how far we’ve come as we start reading the Torah from the beginning, again.
SNACKS: will be provided each day NOTE: grandparents are also invited
Youth and Teen Services & Programs
Mazal Tots
Geared to 0-6 year olds and their grown-up
TUE, 9/23 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM
WED, 9/24 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
THU, 10/2 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Join us as we renew our spirits together through song, stories, and prayer. On Rosh Hashanah we will sound the shofar. Grandparents are invited.
SNACKS: will be provided each day
Playroom Open
0-6 year olds and their grown-ups
WED, 9/24 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
TUE, 10/7 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
TUE, 10/14 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Our playroom with tumbling equipment is open for children who may have the wiggles. Children must be supervised by their adult at all times.
Puppet Making Family Program
All ages welcome MON, 9/22 5:00 – 5:30 PM
Join us to create puppets for the next day’s Puppet Show. We will have all the supplies ready; simply sign up so we know you’re ready to participate!
All are encouraged to stay for our family-friendly Ma'arivservice after the program.
REGISTRATION: tinyurl.com/RHPuppet5786
Note: puppets will be kept at Beth El overnight
Puppet Show
0-6 year olds with their grown-ups; Grades 1-5
TUE, 9/23 10:45 – 11:05 AM
Join us for a special puppet show by congregant
Dr. Matthew Cohen, professor in the department of dramatic arts at UConn. He will be using a form of puppetry called Yayang Golek, which uses rod puppets for story telling. Dr. Cohen’s puppet show will be an adaptation of a classic Hassidic story of knowing yourself and hearing the sound of the shofar. Friends who have joined us for Erev Rosh Hashanah will be able to use their puppets.
Shababa
0-6 year olds and their grown-ups
MON, 10/6 5:30 – 6:00 PM
Experience the joy of the holiday with dancing, singing, stories, and prayers. Gather with the whole community for dinner at Pizza in the Hut.
Snack and Art Project
0-6 year olds with their grown-ups; Grades 1-5
TUE, 9/23 10:30 AM – 10:45 AM
WED, 9/24 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
THU, 10/2 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
We will engage in a Yom Tov-friendly art project for all to enjoy along with a snack (on Yom Kippur for those students who are not fasting).
On Day 1 of Rosh Hashanah, the Puppet Show will follow.
Supervised Play
Grades 1-5
THU, 10/2 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
An informal space for kids to gather with Dr Krigel.
Teen Programs
Divided grades 6-8 and grades 9-12
TUE, 9/23 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
THU, 10/2 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Our young teens will meet up to role play classic tales from the Torah and debate the morality and values behind our most sacred narratives.
Our high schoolers will discuss what Rosh Hashanah means to them as mature teens and reflect on the past year through the lens of meaningful Rabbinic commentary and texts. On Yom Kippur they will participate in a mock debate based on modern day moral dilemmas.
SNACKS: will be provided on Rosh Hashanah
High Holiday Access Policy
Beth El provides a variety of options for our members, their families, their out-of-town friends and family, as well as community members, to worship with us on the High Holidays.
All services will be offered in person, and many of them will also be Livestreamed or on Zoom.
Feel free to mix and match these options.
Full Members of Beth El Temple
Members must be in good standing° for their nametags to be available for pick-up.
Children, ages 5 through 24, of members in good standing° will automatically have nametags prepared. Please contact the office with current e-mail addresses for access to streaming.
Your adult children, ages 25-29, if not members on their own, may purchase access at a reduced rate:
Rosh Hashanah – Day 1 $125
Kol Nidrei & Yom Kippur
Both Holidays
$125
$175
Note: Those with a “Friend of Beth El” membership receive online access only.
Local Non-Members
Non-members are invited to purchase access to Rosh Hashanah Day 1, Kol Nidrei, and Yom Kippur morning services. This one-time offer allows prospective members the opportunity to experience the magic of Beth El during the High Holidays.
The cost of access can be applied to membership if they join Beth El by December 31, 2025.
This offer is not available to anyone who was a member of Beth El within the last seven years.
Access for each person may be purchased for
Rosh Hashanah – Day 1 $400
Kol Nidrei & Yom Kippur $550 Both Holidays $795
Tinyurl.com/BethElHolidays5786
° Membersingoodstandinghavereturned theircompletedmembershipformandpaidtheir duesinfullorhavepaidatleast25%oftheirdues.
Guests
Members may purchase access for relatives and friends, ages 25 and up, who live outside Hartford County:
Rosh Hashanah – Day 1 $200
Kol Nidrei & Yom Kippur $200
Both Holidays $300
A completed guest form is required in order to receive the Nametags . The form is available from the office or at tinyurl.com/GuestTickets5786.
Young Adults (18-24), Local College Students, and Active Military Personnel: These special guests are invited to join all of our services at no charge. They must preregister for their nametags by calling the office.
Access is complimentary for everyone:
Rosh Hashanah – All Evenings and Day 2; Yom Kippur – Mincha and Neilah; Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah
Each person 5 and over must have their own nametag
All non-members must register for their nametags : tinyurl.com/Community5786
For Livestream information, interested parties will need to contact the office for access.
Reciprocal Access
We participate in the ReciprocalTicketprogram where members in good standing° at any synagogue receive complimentary access to another synagogue.
For your guests:
Please have them ask their synagogue to e-mail/fax a ReciprocalTicketRequestForm/Letterto Beth El.
It must include the names of both our member and the guest and which day(s) they will be joining us.
If YOU are traveling:
If YOU are spending any part of the holiday at another synagogue that requires tickets, go to tinyurl.com/ HiHoTravel5786 to request reciprocal ticket/access information be sent on your behalf. Please provide the fax number or email address to which we should send the information.
Note: AllmoniescollectedfromAccesssalessupport membershipduesforthoseinneed.
“Fine Print” (Guidelines)
Health and Wellness
If you feel you might have any illness – a cold, cough, fever, sore throat, any nasal or bronchial congestion – please stay home and enjoy our online options.
Please avoid wearing fragrances and any scented products at Beth El. We want everyone to be able to breathe comfortably at services.
Security
Please enter the building through the Sanctuary lobby doors to check in. Please be sure that your nametag is always around your neck and clearly visible.
Our security guards will inspect all bags.
For the safety of all, do not prop open external doors.
Due to fire regulations, strollers and walkers are not permitted in the Sanctuary or Levine-Shein Chapel. Ushers will show you the designated parking area and help you get comfortable. As manylookalike,pleaseattachalabelor identifyingribbon.
Be aware of all building exits, in case of emergency.
Ushers
Ushers will be wearing identifying badges and will be available to answer questions and help find empty seats.
Ushers will close ALL doors during sermons, for other speakers, and when the Ark is open.
Please be respectful of all usher directions.
Member Portal: Test your Online Access
A video is available on our website for all members to “test” their ability to watch and hear services.
You must test for any issues between now and Monday, September 15, by 9am. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to resolve any difficulties reported after the deadline of September 15.
Seating
At all services, seating is first-come, first-served.
If you want to ensure that your family sits together, all individuals should arrive early.
Children are welcomed and entitled to seats in any service of their choice.
Should you need a short break from the service, feel free to take one; however, we cannot guarantee that your seats will still be available for you upon your return unless a member of your family remains with them.
Special Seat Requests
Seats may be reserved in advance only for persons with disabilities or those who require the assistance of support equipment (e.g. walkers, wheelchairs). If necessary, one additional seat may be reserved for a companion to remain with that person.
These seats will be released after 10:00 am.
Notify the Temple office as early as possible so that the seat(s) can be properly designated. Requests must be made by Wed, 9/17.
Decorum – Please...
Maintain the sanctity of services by limiting conversation and dressing modestly.
Expect to enter and leave services from a side door. To reduce noise and distraction, the main doors to the Sanctuary and Kessler Hall will be kept closed, except for those with walkers.
Do not congregate in bathrooms.
Be aware that during certain portions of the service, you will be asked to wait before entering; also limit leaving at those times.
Preserve the sanctity of the holiday by turning off all electronic devices, including cell phones, prior to entering the building Leave all iPads, Kindles, etc., at home.
Parking
Park where directed by the parking attendants in the Temple lot and only in designated spaces.
Follow all posted no parking signs on the side streets in adjoining neighborhoods. Be aware that the police will issue parking tickets.
Note: There is no designated off-site parking or shuttle service.
Doing Mitzvot
Annual Kol Nidrei Food Drive for Anja Rosenberg Kosher Food Pantry at Jewish Family Services (JFS)
JFS serves families facing financial setbacks, isolated elderly, and disabled adults living on small incomes. You can help make a difference in their lives!
Please fill a bag or two and drop them off in the Community Room anytime between Monday, September 22, and Friday, October 3.
All food has to be unopened and KOSHER. Please look for one of these Hechsher symbols.
THANK YOU! in advance for your support of this important Mitzvah to help your neighbors!
Requested Items
Food
• Canned: vegetables, fruit, soups
• Cereal, granola
• Pasta, rice, couscous, macaroni & cheese
• Peanut butter, jams, jelly, preserves, honey
• Tuna in water
• Do not bring expired or opened food – it will be thrown out.
• Do not bring Passover items –there isn’t enough storage space at JFS.
• Pasta Sauce, Salad dressings, mayonnaise & other condiments
• Cooking oil (small containers, no bulk)
• Cookies, chips, pretzels, Crackers, breakfast bars
Toiletries
• Soap, shampoo, conditioner
• Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Deodorant, hand cream
• Diapers, Depends, wipes
Cleaning/Household Supplies
• Laundry detergent pods
• Toilet paper, paper towels
• Dish soap, sponges
Sorting Food Drive Donations
Sunday, October 5
9:15 – 11:30 AM
CONTACT: Sharon Levine-Shein, mslib20@gmail.com Many hands are needed to sort all the bags of donated items before they are delivered to the Food Pantry.
The customer-friendly Pantry at JFS, where clients get to “shop.”
The Anja Rosenberg Kosher Food Pantry at Jewish Family Services continually needs to be restocked. Throughout the year, when coming to Beth El, please bring a can of vegetables or fruit, peanut butter, tuna, pasta, or a bag of groceries. Place your donations in the box at the entrance across from the Community Room. Items may also be brought directly to:
Jewish Family Services
333 Bloomfield Ave, Suite A, West Hartford
Pantry Picks: a new, monthly way to support the Pantry with featured, most-needed items. Visit a.co/66xHEWi for the Wish List posted at Amazon.com.
Volunteer before and during the High Holidays
Begin the new year by helping our community observe and celebrate the High Holidays! We have many opportunities for volunteering, including:
polish the silver Torah adornments
assist with children’s programs
ALL OPTIONS: tinyurl.com/Volunteer5786
prepare the High Holiday Greeting Card to be mailed
sing in the choir
serve snacks to children on Yom Kippur
3-Season Opportunities
Jessie’s Community Garden
CONTACT: Dane Kostin, dkostin@comcast.net
Created by members Michele and Dane Kostin to honor the memory of their daughter, Jessie’s Community Garden Foundation grows and donates fresh vegetables to foodbanks throughout Hartford. Help is always needed, join anytime!
Garden Club News
CONTACT: Sheila Fox, 860-828-3939, sheilaf33@icloud.com; Alison Demarest, 860-810-2084, alisonsupermom@comcast.net; Robin Santiago, 860-490-7661, robin@rsantiagodmd.com
DONATIONS ACCEPTED: gently used garden tools and hoses
We tend to all the plantings that surround our Temple building. We have jobs large and small, including weeding, raking, watering, planting, trimming... Noexperiencenecessary.
Both of these outdoor activities make great B’nei Mitzvah projects. Volunteers are invited to come with friends, as a family, or solo.
KNITzvah Group
MONTHLY SUNDAYS, RETURNS SEPT. 14 10:00 – 11:00 AM
CONTACT: BJ and Fran, knitzvahgrp@gmail.com
DELIVERY: let us know if you are planning a trip to Israel and can deliver some hats to IDF lone soldiers
NOTE: usually meets on the same dates as Better Together Weturnstringsintothings,onestitchatatimeto bringwarmthandcaringtoothers!
Kitchen Reorganization Project
CONTACT: Myra Kleinman, mwkleinman@outlook.com; Michelle Kunzman, michellekunzman1@gmail.com
Volunteers have put in many hours of cleaning, reorganizing, and upgrading the kitchen. Next up is replacing hardware, relabeling cabinets, and other “handyperson” tasks. Come help.
Chesed (Kindness) Committee: Supporting our Members
CONTACT: info@bethelwh.org
Your Beth El community is prepared to be of help with any life challenge (new baby, illness, loss of a loved one). If you are in need of some assistance or would like to be part of our volunteer corps, please reach out.
Programs for Teens and Young Adults
United Synagogue Youth
WHUSY, the local chapter of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism's youth movement, serves teens from Beth El Temple and The Emanuel Synagogue. USY offers local and regional programs and conventions, local social and social justice activities, and more!
Chidush Yisrael – Winter Break in Israel
DECEMBER 24, 2025 – JANUARY 1, 2026
REGISTER: usy.org/events
Participants will take part in volunteer projects, experience Shabbat in Jerusalem, and much more.
CONTACT: Marisa and Max Beede, Advisors, whusyadvisor@gmail.com
AGES: grades 6-12
NOTE: cost should not be a barrier for attending; reach out to Marisa and Max about scholarships
College Connection
Do you have a child in college? We'd like to stay connected with them! We will send them holiday greetings and goodies throughout the year! First up will be a High Holiday message. Please send us their new or updated contact information (name, mailing address for school, and email address).
Stephanie Kudler, Chair collegeconnections@bethelwh.org
The generosity Gavens Family College Youth Fund makes this project possible.
Shabbat Services & Daily Minyan
All services and classes can be accessed directly from the weekly e-blast to members (no login necessary) or by following the links on our website (login required).
Shabbat – Friday
Kabbalat Shabbat 5:45 PM
Shabbat – Saturday
Shacharit, Torah, & 9:30 AM Musaf Services
Children’s Playroom 9:30 AM
Mini-Minyan (gr. 1-6) 10:15 AM
Mazal Tots (birth-kindergarten) 11:00 AM
Mincha Service, includes Mourner’s Kaddish for both Saturday and Sunday 12:15 PM (or 20 min. after morning service, whichever is later)
Havdallah ZOOM ONLY, SEE CHART BELOW
There are no regular services, in person, on Saturday evenings.
Special Shabbat Programs and Events
September
Sat 6 9:30AM Birthday Shabbat
Fri 12 5:30PM Shabbat under the Stars
Sat 27 9:30AM Shabbat Shuvah (see p. 5)
October
Sat 4 9:30AM Birthday Shabbat
Candle & Havdallah Times; plus Havdallah Service Time
Shabbat Friday Saturday Candle Havdallah Service
Sept 5-6 7:00 PM 7:56 PM 8:15 PM
Sept 12-13 6:48 PM 7:44 PM 8:05 PM
Sept 19-20 6:36 PM
Friday – weekly
Kabbalat Shabbat
5:45 PM – 7:00 PM Zoom and in person Welcome Shabbat with joyous song and prayer, a d’var Torahfrom the clergy, and occasional guest soloists.
Saturday – weekly
Shacharit, Torah, and Musaf Services
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM Livestream and in person
A complete, traditional, Shabbat morning service.
Children’s Playroom
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
AGES: 0-5, with their grown-up
A place to take a break with your energetic child.
Mini-Minyan Resumes Sept 13
10:15 AM – 11:15 AM no Virtual Options
AGES: Grades 1-6
LEADER: Dr. Eliyahu Krigel
NOTE: does not meet when there is a B’nei Mitzvah
Enjoy special songs, games, activities, and Shabbat fun, plus participate in parts of the main service.
Mazal Tots
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM no Virtual Options
AGES: 0-5, with their grown-up
LEADER: Dr. Eliyahu Krigel
Includes an active edible art project along with learning to help deepen the Shabbat experience.
Mincha
12:15 PM – 12:45 PM Livestream and in person
AGES: 0-5, with their grown-up
Sept 26-27 6:24 PM 7:20 PM 7:40 PM
Oct 3-4 6:12 PM
Oct 10-11
Oct 17-18 5:49 PM 6:45 PM 7:05 PM
Oct 24-25 5:38 PM 6:35 PM 6:55 PM
Oct 31-Nov 1 5:29 PM 6:26 PM 6:45 PM 6:00 PM 7:32 PM 7:55 PM 7:08 PM 7:30 PM 6:56 PM 7:15 PM
This is a brief afternoon service, complete with Torah readings. Mourner’s Kaddish will be recited for both Saturday and Sunday yahrzeits.
Havdallah
Zoom only
NOTE: see chart for timing; it follows sunset
We transition from Shabbat to the new week with this brief service using the traditional symbols of a burning candle, a spice box, and wine. This will not include an evening service; Mourner’s Kaddish will not be recited.
Shabbat Services & Daily Minyan, cont.
Saturday – monthly
Birthday Shabbat
SEPTEMBER 6, OCTOBER 4, NOVEMBER 1
During the morning Torah Service
On the first Shabbat of the month, we celebrate that month's congregational birthdays with a special aliyah!
Shabbat – Special Event
Shabbat under the Stars
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
5:30 PM
COST: $15/adult, $12/child (5-12), for children 0 -4; $54 max/member households.
REGISTER: tinyurl.com/SUTS2025
An outdoor, family-friendly service followed by Shabbat dinner and dessert.
Daily Minyan
Shacharit Sun 8:45 AM Mon–Fri 7:00 AM
NOTE: Mon, Sept. 1 at 9:00 AM
Mincha/Ma’ariv Sun–Thu 5:30 PM
See pages 4-7 for the schedule of High Holiday services and programs.
Life Cycles, part 1
Welcome to New Members
Karen Freilich
Rachele Katzman, with Cayden and Nora Hoge
Ellen Leonard & Gregory Matthaey
Amy Silverman
Congratulations
Sharon & Michael Schloss on birth of grandchild Jameson Asher Caswell
Lindsay & Sam Reiss on birth of Jack Noah
Carolyn Mostel Weiser & Jeffrey Weiser on the marriage of their daughter, Emily Weiser, to Michael Helgerman
Join Us For Minyan – In Person
Our in-person Minyan allows people to come together for worship, recite Mourner’s Kaddish , name a baby, provide support, and build a lasting connection to those around us. It is an opportunity for prayer, community, reflection, and a few moments of quiet.
What can I expect at Minyan?
Our clergy and/or a congregant leads and guides the service with English and Hebrew portions. Congregational participation is encouraged at whatever level you feel comfortable.
Do I need to know Hebrew to attend?
No. All of our prayerbooks have English translations on the facing page of every prayer, and transliterations (using English letters to spell out Hebrew words) are provided for some prayers.
How long is Minyan?
Sun, Tues, Wed, and Fri mornings: 30 minutes Mon. and Thurs. mornings: 40 minutes (when Torah is read) Sunday through Thursday evenings: 25 minutes
How does Minyan differ from the Shabbat Morning Service?
Daily minyan is much shorter and is a more informal environment. In addition, while some prayers, like the Sh’ma, are the same, others focus on weekday themes, whereas Shabbat is dedicated to celebrating Shabbat.
Mazel Tov! and Appreciation for Sponsoring
Shabbat Kiddush
Sheila and David Diamond in honor of the aufruf of their son, Andrew, and Shani Erdman
Marsha Lowry in honor of husband Richard’s 85th Birthday
Of Blessed Memory
Dr. Jerrold Goodman
Susan Liebert, aunt of Richard Liebert
Alan Rosenfeld, father of Glen Rosenfeld
Phyllis Siegal
Marcia Zola (continues on page 23)
If you would like to share your Simchas and Sorrows with the Beth El Community, please send your Life Cycle announcements to: info@bethelwh.org.
Family Engagement
Welcome back from summer break! I hope and pray your time has been rejuvenating and meaningful. In Pirkei Avot 4:1, the text teaches: Whoiswise?Theonewholearnsfromall humans,asitsays,"FromallmyinstructorsI haveacquiredunderstanding”(Psalm 119:99)
This rabbinic source teaches us to learn from all interactions and every encounter. We do this at SULAM on a weekly basis.
Our goal at SULAM is to make the learning relevant and meaningful so it will last a lifetime. The relationships we form at SULAM and in the greater Beth El community are the glue that keep learners engaged and bonded with the program. We aim to create a KehillahKedosha , a holy community, where everyone is seen, heard, and valued for the many gifts and insights they bring to the table of learning.
SULAM on Sundays is for 7th graders and below. SULAM on Tuesdays is for 3rd-6th graders to gather in person for our new SULAM Learning Lab. This midweek option is also available to 2nd graders who wish to get a jump on their Jewish studies. Learning Lab focuses on the how, what, why, when, and where of the prayer service, so learners are set up for success when they begin their B'nei Mitzvah lessons. SULAM learners help lead the evening minyan on Tuesday evenings as well.
Over
Gal Ron taught about Israeli culture and society
Beth El will provide a snack for our in person learners on Tuesdays. We will still maintain the SULAM Zoom option, for a fee, for those learners who are unable to attend in person on Tuesdays.
Starting on September 13, we will be offering Shabbat programming for our youth in a newly revised format. Please see the Shabbat pages for descriptions of these programming opportunities aimed at engaging our youth community in a meaningful Shabbat experience.
All interested parents are invited to join Derech SULAM, the committee that helps steer the direction of SULAM throughout the year. And please know my office door continues to be open to you. Schedule a meeting with me early and often to talk about your Jewish journey and how I can best support you.
Wishing you and your family a sweet, healthy, and happy New Year 5786, from my family to yours, L’ShanaTovaU’metuka!
~Dr.EliyahuKrigel
Lifelong Learning for Adults
Lunch & Learn TUESDAYS 12:00 – 1:00 PM RETURNS SEPT. 4
Talmud Study WEDNESDAYS 10:15 – 11:15 AM WEEKLY
Bible & Breakfast THURSDAYS 8:00 – 9:00 AM RETURNS OCT. 28
SULAM meets: Sept. Oct.
Sunday 7, 14, 21, 28 5, 19, 26
Tuesday 9, 16, 30 21, 28
Zoom,
Derech SULAM Committee
Parker Lang’s (rt, with mom Lauren) Bat Mitzvah project earned recognition from the Men’s Club.
Madrichim (TAs) Riley Borden and Tali Tuvin
SULAM learners
Upcoming Events & Programs
Family Fantasy Football League Draft
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 3 7:00 PM –9:00 PM
$10/team; for parents and kids together Men’s Club
dnsabino@gmail.com
Craft Gallery Grand Re-Opening
Back to Beth El Block Party
SUNDAY, SEPT. 7 9:00 AM –11:30 AM
SUNDAY, SEPT. 7 11:30 AM –1:00 PM tinyurl.com/BEBlockParty2025
Gather with the Beth El community, learn about our programs and services. Enjoy a bounce house and lunch. Open to the community; no charge.
Tapping Therapy for Stress Relief and Emotion Management
Tour de Shuls Connecticut
14th Annual Sukkahfest: Steak & Beer in the Sukkah
Chai Society Program
Fashion Show by Bodytalk
SUNDAY, SEPT. 14 2:00 PM –3:30 PM No charge Women’s Network
SUNDAY, OCT. 5 9:30 AM –12:30 PM
$18-54/person; $126 family max Men’s Club
THURSDAY, OCT. 9 6:00 PM –8:30 PM $36 Men’s Club
ericglad@comcast.net tourdeshulsct.org yanofskya@yahoo.com
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22 11:30 AM –2:00 PM $15, inc. lunch Chai Society
tinyurl.com/BETChaiOct2025
THURSDAY, NOV. 6 6:00 PM –7:30 PM Women’s Network
michellekunzman1@gmail.com
Distinguished Service Award Banquet
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16
6:00 – 9:00 PM
COST: $75/person; $136/sponsor; additional Sponsor and Ad information to be mailed to all members
CONTACT: Dave Diamond, 860-965-3157, daviddiamond2@comcast.net
RSVP: by 10/3
SPONSOR: Men’s Club
Honoring: Robin Santiago and Michael Schenker for their many years of devoted service to Beth El Temple and the Community
Keynote Speaker: Gary Jones, Director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Stamford, New Canaan and Darien
MC: Gary Starr
Walk Along the Reservoir Path
TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS 9:15 AM
LOCATION: Reservoir on Route 44, Albany Ave; meet at rear parking lot CONTACT: Stu Bernstein, 860-830-1901, scbernste@aol.com
Better Together
SUNDAYS, MONTHLY, OCTOBER 20 AND NOVEMBER 2 10:30 – 11:30 AM
CONTACT: ekrigel@bethelwh.org
REGISTRATION REQUIRED: tinyurl.com/Better5786
NOTE: usually meets on the same dates as Knitzvah This intergenerational program is an opportunity for adults over 65 years old to learn and build community with students in fifth grade and above.
Supporting Beth El
We deeply appreciate the following Thoughtful Contributions.
This list reflects contributions received and processed through July 21, 2025.
For the next edition of Temple Topics, contributions need to be received in the office by September 22, 2025.
Beautification Fund for the Yahrzeit of Leon Sundel, uncle – Carol Johnson Ceremonial Court in Honor of Birthdays of Sally & Harris Chorney – Lois Koteen
Camp Ramah Fund in Memory of Charlotte Farber, mother of Beth – Meryl & Mitchell Danitz
Alan Rosenfeld, father of Glen – Lonni & Philip Schulz
Cemetery Fund in Memory of Mia Fishman, granddaughter – Shelley & Marc Caplan
Chai Society in Honor of Bat Mitzvah of Alex Miriam Krichavsky, granddaughter of Alys & Jack – Sandy & Marc Friedman
80th birthday of Faith Parker – Phyllis Lehman, Loretta Levy, Andrea & Ron Saxon in Memory of
Dr. Jerrold Goodman, husband of Judy –Phyllis Lehman
Robert Goodman; Paul Litman; Howard Feivou – Faith & Bruce Parker
Joseph Springut Security Fund in Memory of Jay Ginewsky, brother of Karen Ludgin –Phyllis Lehman
Gilda Graff – Honey Sue Springut for the Yahrzeit of Evelyn & Harold Moglove, parents –Honey Sue Springut
Wishing a Complete Return to Good Health to Roberta Buland – Honey Sue Springut
Cantor Joseph Ness Concert Fund in Appreciation of
Jasmin Autunno & Lydia Lutt for help printing the Kol Zahav Concert Program
– Kol Zahav Chorale in Memory of
Alan Rosenfeld, father of Glen – Sharon & Bob Efron
Education Fund in Appreciation of Nancy Rosen for always being so thoughtful in friendship & teaching –Marsha & Warren Fisher
Marissa Beede & Dr. Eliyahu Krigel – Leah Katz, Gloria & Mark Rubin, Satoko, Todd & Miya Rubin in Honor of 80th birthday of Faith Parker – Janice & Sydney Elkin
Bat Mitzvah of Jocelyn Esposito, daughter of Phyllis & Chris – Barbara & Robert Green, Janel & Kevin MacDermott for the Yahrzeit of Max Joshua Hoffman, father – Herb Hoffman
Jewish Continuity Fund in Appreciation of Barbara Green, Jill Jones, Nancy Rosen & Ellen Sanders-Nirenstein – Sharon Gorlick in Memory of Marcia Freedman Zola – Frank Savits for the Yahrzeit of Jeanette Berman; Reva Belle Kramer –Phyllis & Bob Berman
Music Fund in Honor of 80th birthday of Faith Parker – Joan & Dan Fine for the Yahrzeit of Leonard Guthart, friend – Roberta Buland
There are two ways to make a donation:
Go to the Beth El website: www.bethelwesthartford. org/giving
Mail it in
Please be sure to include:
the name of the fund
whom you wish to honor/ remember and your relationship to the person
their address for an acknowledgment card
your address/phone/email
Print clearly – or submit the information typed.
Every dollar contributed can and does make a difference and will be acknowledged. The minimum donation for each listing is $10.
Unrestricted funds support the timely needs of Beth El Temple. Restricted funds benefit specific purposes and objectives. For a complete list of funds and any specific designations, please visit our website.
Rabbi Zerin’s Discretionary Fund in Appreciation of Rabbi Zerin – the Duncaster, Leah Katz, Gilda Liebowitz in Honor of Allison F. Berger receiving her PhD in Education – Dr. Avram S. Berger in Memory of Lillian Donner-Jacobson, mother – Gale Shapiro for the Yahrzeit of Max Joshua Hoffman, father – Herb Hoffman
Rabbi Rosen’s Discretionary Fund in Appreciation of
Rabbi Rosen – Jerry Borodkin, the Farb er family, Leah Katz, Karen Ludgin, Satoko, Todd & Miya Rubin, Gloria & Mark Rubin
Emmy & Steve Fast, two dear friends – Marcy Cain & Robert Kagan in Honor of
80th birthday of Faith Parker – Lorraine & Tom Barber & family, Sue & Bruce Bergman, Linda & Shel Eisenberg, Fredda & Jon Goldstein
85th birthday of Marty Gould – Fredda & Jon Goldstein
Marriage of Sophie Kruger, daughter of Riva Lewinter & David Kruger, and Joey Azizoff – Barbara & Robert Green
Dan Cohen – Mitchell Jaffe
Bat Mitzvah of Emma Hoffman, daughter of Monica & Matthew, granddaughter of Nancy & Jeffrey, great-granddaughter of Phyllis – Francine & Steve Stier in Memory of
Dr. Jerrold Goodman, husband of Judy – Linda & Shel Eisenberg, Sally & Chuck Essr eg, Barbara & Robert Green, Arlene & Lenny Lippman, Arle ne & Dan Neiditz, Susan & Michael Peck, Lorraine & Irving Waldman
Robert Goodman – Debbie, Ari, Michael & Danielle Katz, Fredda & Jon Goldstein, Bonnie & Jay Roston
Robert M. Lerner – Lois P. Ellovich
Eileen Greenberg – Jed Schulman
Lillian Donner-Jacobson, mother – Gale Shapiro
Charlotte Farber, mother of Beth – Judith & Joel Weisman for the Yahrzeit of Eliot Barron, father – Marcia Garfinkel
Max Joshua Hoffman, father – Herb Hoffman
Roffer Mental Health Challenges Initiative Fund in Memory of
Brian Jared Roffer, son of Rhona & Joel – Bella & Judd Fink, Rise & Mark Heffron, Robe rta Woronow & Ted Kaplan, Alan Roffer, Rhona & Joel Roffer
Tsedakah/Chesed Fund in Memory of
Gerald Silver, father of David – Lynn Brandes & David Arons
Dr. Jerrold Goodman, husband of Judy – Barbara & David Brown, Cookie & Ed Feinglass, Linda Oz
Norman S. Isko, father of Michael Isko; Elaine Reisman, mother of Sharon Conway – Myra & Bill Kleinman
Temple Fund
in Honor of
70th birthday of Adam Cohen – Matthew Friedman
85th birthday of Marty Gould – Sandy & Bruce Goldberg
50th wedding anniversary of Francine & Steve Stier – Edna & David Shamash in Memory of
Dr. Jerrold Goodman, husband of Judy – Edward Evantash, Joyce Flescher, Renny & Michael Fulco, Robin & Tony Furman, Eva & Michael Kaplan, Gina & Dennis Koppel, Jay, Gary & Ken Legum, Loretta Le vy, Lillian Lindy, Phyllis & Jack Plotkin, Joan & Bill Prensky, Beverly & Arvin
Robinson, Audrey & Danny Rosenfeld, Holly & Gerry Swirsky, Elinor Welson
Robert Goodman – Sandy & Bruce Goldberg, Linda & Steven Shapiro
Estelle Sherry – Cindy & Adam Cohen, Sharon & David Hessney
Brian Jared Roffer, son of Rhona & Joel – Hedyth Fishman
Jay Ginewsky, brother of Karen Ludgin – Sandy & Bruce Goldberg
Alan Rosenfeld, father of Glen – Jennifer Wold
Supporting Beth El, cont.
Temple Fund, cont. for the Yahrzeit of
Bertha G. Berland, mother – Robert Berland
Beatrice B. & George L. Solomon, parents – Shelley Cetel
Daniel H. Turchin; Haley Cremer; Morris Turchin – Marilyn Cremer
Benny Cremer, father – Reeva Cremer
Joan & Al Diamond, parents; Carol & Mel Tubis, parents – Sheila & David Diamond
Jennifer Falik, daughter; Barbara & Harold Falik, parents – Tom Falik
Sarah Silverstein, mother – Korine Ferraro
George Gillman, brother – Felice Goldman
Dorothy & Eli Evnen, grandparents; Bernard Kessler, uncle –Abigail Kessler-Hanna
Greta Meier; Al Kleinman – Deborah & Steven Kleinman
Sarah Hurwitz Weinberg, grandmother; Ida Pedro Goldberg, grandmother; Rose Goldberg, aunt – Miriam Lappen
William Levine, father; Jonathan Levine, brother – Peter Levine
Samuel Levy, father – Judie & Coleman Levy
Marvin Treach, father – Lynn & Joel Malkoff
Ben Fairman, father; Esther Meyer, mother-in-law – Jean Meyer
Blossom Greenberg, mother – Janet Moskowitz
David Nemirow, husband – Maura Nemirow
Fay Platt, mother – Carol & Jonathan Opas
Jean & Nathan Aronson, parents – Faith & Bruce Parker
Zara Kraznow Leavitt, grandmother; Martin Willick, uncle–Deborah R. Rosenfeld
Amy Shakun, wife – Harlan Shakun
Milton Jacobson, father; Robert Jacobson, brother – Gale Shapiro
Ann F. Cohen, mother, grandmother – Cyral Sheldon & family
Harriett Andorsky, mother – Lisa Sussman
Charlotte Simonovitz, mother – Sue & Stuart Wachtel
Samuel Lindenberg, father; Mildred Kurtz, sister – Judith & Joel Weisman
General Unrestricted Endowment Fund in Honor of
Birth of two great-grandchildren to Betty & Herb Hoffman –Marsha & Richard Lowry in Memory of
Dr. Jerrold Goodman, husband of Judy – Hicham Bourjaili, Susan & Jerry Cohen, CT DDS, Rebecca & Marty Gould, Jenny Grossnan, Carol & Gerry Joseloff, Rabbi Lilly Kaufman, Noah Kaufman, Stephen LaBrecque, Anne & Ross
Legum & family, Gayle & Alan Pinshaw, Marsha & Paul Rothschild, Daniel Savrin, Barbara Steinfeld, Caiti Zeytoonian
Robert Goodman – Deborah & Lane Buckla n, the Fruithandler family, Madeline & Richard Minkoff
Norman S. Isko, father of Michael – Carolyn & Jeff Weiser
Alan Rosenfeld, father of Glen – Judy Borus, Lois Koteen, Abbey Kreinik
for the Yahrzeit of Edith Roizen, mother; James Lowry, father – Marsha & Richard Lowry
Wishing a Complete Return to Good Health to: David Waitzman – Marcia & David Waitzman
Alter Family Fund for the Yahrzeit of
Donald Lehrer, father – Marci & Jonathan Alter
Judith & David Borus Family Endowment Fund in Honor of Birth of Georgia, granddaughter of Margery & Steve Swigert – Judy Borus for the Yahrzeit of Mimi Aleug, Holocaust remembrance –Judy Borus
Wishing a Complete Return to Good Health to:
Renana Kadden – Judy Borus
Ann & Bernie Cope Endowment Fund in Memory of Jonait Byer – Ann Cope
Sharon & Bob Efron Family Fund in Honor of
Bar Mitzvah of Zachery Gilbert, grandson of Sharon & Bob Efron – Judy Borus, Leah Katz, Myra & Bill Kleinman, Abbey Kreinik, Annette & Jack Levine, Deborah & Glen Rosenfeld, Judy & David Rosenthal, Francine & Steve Stier for the Yahrzeit of May Moses, mother – Sharon & Bob Efron
Leah Goldschmidt Katz Endowment Fund in Appreciation of Leah’s service as President of Beth El Temple – Lois Koteen in Memory of Alan Rosenfeld, father of Glen – Leah Katz
Edward & Susan Chestler Family Endowment Fund in Memory of
Dr. Jerrold Goodman, husband of Judy –Sue & Ed Chestler
Friends Fund for Members in Need in Honor of
Bat Mitzvah of Alex Miriam Krichavsky, granddaughter of Alys & Jack – Tammy Kagan Levine, Susan & Michael Schenker
Phil Schulz becoming President of Beth El Temple; Leah Katz completing her term as President of Beth El Temple – Judy & David Rosenthal
75th birthday of Joyce Leibert – Andrea Hotes, Annette & Jack Levine, Patti & Howard Weiner in Memory of
Dr. Jerrold Goodman, husband of Judy –Elana Finn
Krasow Greenblatt Family Fund in Memory of
Dr. Jerrold Goodman, husband of Judy –Zadelle & Arthur Krasow Greenblatt
Anna Heineman Memorial Fund in Honor of 50th wedding anniversary of Francine & Steve Stier – Meryl & Mitchell Danitz, Sharon & Bob Efron, Susan & Michael Schenker for the Yahrzeit of Sheldon Fertig, brother-in-law – Francine & Steve Stier
Koteen Family Fund in Honor of
Bar Mitzvah of John Bear Barr, grandson of Lois Koteen – Judy Borus, Leah Katz, Myra & Bill Kleinman
Sandra L. Kravet Woman of Valor Endowment Fund in Appreciation of Terri Levine – David Kravet in Memory of Gerald Evans; Dr. Jerrold Goodman, husband of Judy; Phyllis Siegel, wife of Gerald; Yaron Lischinskky; Sarah Lynn Milgrim; Hope Firestone; Walter Machowski – David Kravet
Kreinik Family Endowment Fund in Honor of
Kai Kreinik’s high school graduation – Lois Koteen for the Yahrzeit of Belle & Arthur Miller, parents – Abbey Miller Kreinik
Diane & Richard Lieberfarb Endowment Fund in Appreciation of Diane Lieberfarb – Sharon Gorlick in Honor of
Marriage of Molly & Max Magee; Phil Schulz becoming President of Beth El Temple – Diane & Rich Lieberfarb in Memory of Alan Rosenfeld, father of Glen – Diane & Rich Lieberfarb (continues)
Supporting Beth El, cont.
BETH EL TEMPLE CRAFT GALLERY GRAND RE-OPENING
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 9:00-11:30 AM
We have:
items for Rosh Hashanah – apple and honey dishes, challah boards and challah covers, kiddush cups, candles, and candlesticks
menorahs and seder plates
tallitot and kipot for your child's bar or bat mitzvah
mezuzot, jewelry, books, and toys for any occasion
We strive to assist you with your individual needs. There is much to see in the gallery so please stop by and browse.
HOURS: Sundays, 9:00-11:30AM (when SULAM is in session)
APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE OR TO VOLUNTEER: Rivka Dvorin, 860-710-6090 Lonni Schulz, 860-651-0072
NOTE: proceeds benefit the synagogue, and we are staffed through the generosity of our volunteers
Ludgin Family Endowment Fund in Memory of
Jay Ginewsky, brother of Karen Ludgin – Linda Cohen, Ellie & Peter Cohen, Elaine & Burt Gold, Karen & Ron Goodspeed, Rebecca & Marty Gould, Myra Josephson, Nancy Kursman, Faith & Bruce Parker
Arthur & Stella Mostel Fund for Adult Education in Honor of
Birth of Emanuel Moshe Benadiva, grandson of LeeAnn & Claudio – Carolyn & Jeff Weiser Resnick Family Fund in Memory of Charlotte Farber, mother of Beth – Judy & Frank Resnick Santiago Family Fund in Honor of
Birth of Emanuel Moshe Benadiva, grandson of LeeAnn & Claudio; twin grandsons, Austin Haruki Santiago & Lincoln Kenji Santiago – Robin & Rafi Santiago
Laurie & Marshall Shakun Family Fund in Memory of Charlotte Farber, mother of Beth – Marla Severance Frederick Stein – Laurie & Marshall Shakun
Mort Shechtman Men’s Club Fund in Honor of Wedding of Shani & Andrew – Randi & Kar Chin Sisterhood-Women’s Network Endowment Fund in Honor of Wedding of Shani & Andrew – Ann Levin 80th birthday of Faith Parker – Susan & Marshall Seidman for the Yahrzeit of John Kunzman, father – Michelle Kunzman & Steven Szafman
Clara & Mickey Sowalsky Gabbai Rishon Endowment Fund in Appreciation of Rabbi Howard Sowalsky – Leah Katz in Memory of Lillian Donner-Jacobson, mother – Gale Shapiro for the Yahrzeit of Max Joshua Hoffman, father – Herb Hoffman
Amy E. Toyen Endowment Fund for the Yahrzeit of Amy E. Toyen, daughter; Ernest Blake, father; Barnet Toyen, brother – Dorine & Marty Toyen
I. Milton Widem Adult Education Fund for the Yahrzeit of Milton Widem, father; George Widem, uncle; Elsie Widem, grandmother; Hilda Waxman, grandmother – Susan Widem
Life Cycles, part 2
(continued from page 15)
B’nei
Mitzvah Celebrations
Hannah Larson
October 4, 2025
Hannah, child of Elana Hoffman of West Hartford and Michael Larson of Houston, TX, sibling of Ethyn, grandchild of Betty & Herb Hoffman of West Hartford and Renetta (of blessed memory) & Lee Larson of Tuscon, AZ is an 8th grader at King Phillip Middle School. Hannah is volunteering at the Noah Webster House.
Ella Rose Schaeffer
October 18, 2025
Ella, child of Katie & Paul Schaeffer of West Hartford, sibling of Mickey and Asher, grandchild of Dora & Rabbi
Howard Sowalsky from West Hartford, Dianne Borshy z’’l, and Anne & Kurt Schaeffer, is an 8th grader at Bristow Middle School. Ella is spending time with the residents of the Hebrew Center for Health & Rehabilitation, bringing joy to their lives through beauty.
Talia Harvest Zutler
October 25, 2025
Talia, child of Lauren and Moshe Zutler of West Hartford, sibling of Asher, is a 7th grader at King Philip Middle School. Talia is helping students at Charter Oak Elementary School learn suzuki violin.
Lily Ryan MacDermott
November 1, 2025
Lily, child of Janel & Kevin MacDermott of West Hartford, sibling of Will, grandchild of Marge & Ricky Swaye from Cromwell and Martha & Rick MacDermott from Woburn, MA, and great-grandchild of Edith Denes from West Hartford, is an 8th grader at King Philip Middle School. As part of ongoing volunteering with Jewish Community Living and the JCC Adults with Special Needs programming, Lily organized and led an arts and crafts project to build community and welcome the spring season.
Beth El Temple Wof West Hartford Inc. 2626 Albany Avenue West Hartford, CT 06117 bethelwesthartford.org
Jim Rosen, Rabbi JRosen@bethelwh.org
Rachel Zerin, RZerin@bethelwh.org
Associate Rabbi & Interim Cantorial Soloist
Dr. Eliyahu Krigel, EKrigel@bethelwh.org Director of Education and Family Engagement
Rabbi Howard Sowalsky, HSowalsky@bethelwh.org
Chief Operating Officer
Joseph Ness, Cantor Emeritus
Stanley M. Kessler z’’l, Rabbi Emeritus
Lydia Lutt, Marketing@bethelwh.org
Social Media and Marketing Coordinator
Jason Kay, Engagement@bethelwh.org Engagement Coordinator
Phil Schulz, President
President@bethelwh.org
Deborah R. Rosenfeld, Editor TempleTopics@bethelwh.org
Published every two months. Following the deadline schedule below, please submit articles to: TempleTopics@bethelwh.org
1/25 for March-April 3/25 for May-June 5/25 for July-August
7/25 for
Send Life Cycle announcements to: info@bethelwh.org
Israel Engagement Committee
The Story of Nir Oz
Founded in 1955 on a windswept, barren section of the Negev, on October 6th Nir Oz bore little
resemblance to the settlement‘s early days, thanks in large part to the efforts of Ran Pauker. The kibbutz’s legendary landscaper designed a verdant environment to minimize the effects of the region’s sandstorms that previously made it challenging to move, see, or even eat!
By carefully choosing and locating plants that could thrive, while also minimizing water use, Pauker created a green oasis that is still the hallmark of Nir Oz. His famous botanical garden, NekudaYeruka (Green Point), is a masterpiece of ecological, economic, and practical beauty. This research center is visited by international experts and students.
Located 1.5 miles from the Gaza Border, with scarcely 10 seconds to seek shelter from the frequent missile attacks, every home had a Mamad . Mamad(ד"ממ), short for Merchav MuganDirati(residential protected space), is a reinforced, safe room required in all new, residential buildings since the early 1990s. Designed to defend
against missiles, they proved sorely inadequate to stave off invading terrorists. In the absence of the IDF, the tragedy of Nir Oz illustrates the vulnerability of these Israeli communities.
October 7 shattered their dreams. Attacked by more than 100 Palestinian terrorists, over a quarter of the 400 members were either murdered (20+) or taken hostage (80) on that terrible Simchat Torah Shabbat morning.
They include the Bibas family – the children and their mother murdered in captivity along with Oded Lifshitz, a prominent journalist. Twenty-eight hostages from Nir Oz – all women and children –were freed in the November exchange. Others, including Segui Dekel-Chen and Gadi Mozes, were recently released.
Today the names of the remaining living hostages from Nir Oz echo painfully in our hearts –Ariel and David Cunio, Matan Zangauker, and Nattapong Pingsa – for whose safe return we pray. May the bodies of Amiram Cooper, Gadi Haggai, Judith Weinstein, Eliyahu Margalit, and Aryeh Zalmanovich be returned to their families. As Rosh Hashanah approaches, let us pray for a bright new year and revival for Nir Oz, and for the freedom of all the hostages.
CO-CHAIRS: Sharon Efron, sgredancer@yahoo.com; Robin Santiago, Robin@rsantiagodmd.com
Nir Oz, 1955
Nir Oz, 2019
Burnt home in Nir Oz
Discarded items looted by Hamas terrorists