Baron Hirsch to Host Tot Shabbat Program

Kabbalat Shabbat is a wonderful time of the week when we welcome the Shabbat into our lives. There is something very special about these moments, and given the right atmosphere, these moments can be embedded into ours and our children’s recollection for years to come.

Baron Hirsch Congregation is beginning a new program which will help parents to do just that for their children. For many of us it is difficult to keep our kids quiet during services, but we don’t want them to miss out on this special experience. Starting September 3rd, the congregation is hosting a special, child friendly “Kabbalat Shabbat”, beginning at 6:00PM, 45 minutes before its regular service.  Children ages 3-6, together with their parents, will join in Singing Shabbat songs such as “Lecha Dodi”, be exposed to Jewish and Israeli culture, make Kiddush and welcome the Shabbat with open arms.

The program will be led by Yael Elstein, one of Baron Hirsch’s Grossman Scholars, and is chaired by Lauren Levinson, a member of the Baron Hirsch Board of Trustees. Yael Elstein has just arrived from Israel with her husband, Emanuel, and three children as a shlicha (emissary) of Torah Mitzion and The World Zionist Organization.  She has assumed responsibility as one of the Grossman Scholars at the Baron Hirsch Congregation, and will be running programing for children, teens and young adults. “I’m very excited about this opportunity to allow young children to experience an interactive and meaningful kabbalat Shabbat that is tailor made for them,” said Mrs. Elstein.

Lauren Levinson stated, “I am very excited about being involved in bringing Tot Shabbat to Baron Hirsch.  As parents, we are always looking for quality programs which can give our children rich Jewish content, quality family time, and where they can be comfortable to be themselves.”

After the initial meeting on September 3rd, the program will run on the second Friday evening of each month.  In the winter when Shabbat ends early, the program will switch to Saturday night, where the participants will come together for havdalah and a “Melave Malka”, the traditional post-Shabbat meal.  This program too will be filled with songs, stories and activities containing Jewish and Israeli culture.

For more information, and for a complete schedule of upcoming events, please contact Yael Elstein at 484-0695 or yael@baronhirsch.org.

Baron Hirsch Welcomes Rabbi Grossman for Special Shabbat

Baron Hirsch Congregation announced that Rabbi Rafael Grossman, Senior Rabbi Emeritus, would return to Memphis to serve as its scholar-in-residence on the Shabbat of August 28.  In making the announcement, David Cooper, president of the congregation, stated, “We are honored to have Rabbi and Rebbitzin Grossman with us for Shabbat. We look forward to not only hearing his inspirational presentations but also to the opportunity for so many in our congregation to catch up with our beloved Senior Rabbi Emeritus and Rebbitzin Grossman. We know it will be a very special Shabbat and weekend.”
Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of the congregation, added, “I am very happy that Rabbi Grossmanis coming back to visit our shul as a Scholar-in-Residence. Rabbi and Mrs. Grossman were the leaders of theshul for almost three decades and taught and inspired many people in the congregation. It is our honor to have them join us this Shabbat.”

Rabbi Grossman will deliver the sermon on Shabbat morning in the Belz Sanctuary.  Morning services will begin at 9:00AM, with the sermon at approximately 10:30AM.  He will also deliver the Shabbat afternoon class in the Margolin Bet Midrash at 6:00PM in the Margolin Bet Midrash.  Everyone in the community is welcome to attend the presentations.

Rabbi Grossman served Baron Hirsch and the Memphis community for more than a quarter of a century.  He led the congregation through the transition from its edifice on Vollintine in mid-town Memphis to the eventual construction of the present magnificent synagogue in East Memphis. The Rabbi established many new and innovative programs for people of all ages, and founded the South’s only sleep-away camp under Orthodox auspices, Camp Darom, which recently completed its 33rd season.

Rabbi Grossman was the first Rabbi outside the New York area to be elected President of the Rabbinical Council of America. He has lectured and taught throughout the world, and has written extensively. 

For more information on the Grossmans’ visit, please contact the Baron Hirsch office at 683-7485.

Baron Hirsch Welcomes Elstein Family

Baron Hirsch Congregation is pleased to announce that Emanuel and Yael Elstein will be joining the Baron Hirsch educational and programming team on August 3rd.  Yael will be directing youth activities for Baron Hirsch’s early and middle school age children.  She will have involvement in planning both Shabbat morning and afternoon activities, as well as special holiday events throughout the year.  She will also be an educational associate where she will coordinate several areas of adult educational programming, especially as it pertains to women’s learning and Israel oriented programming. 

Emanuel will develop and oversee teen programming, as well as programming for college students and young couples.  Two major programs that he will be overseeing are Baron Hirsch’s poplar Shoah and Tkuma program, which was established four years ago and has already sent over thirty teens to Israel and the Kesher Konection program, which was begun three years ago by the Memphis Jewish High School.  He will also be active in the Baron Hirsch Educational Institute, and will be a Rabbinic Assistant to Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch.

“I am so excited to have Yael and Emanuel joining the Baron Hirsch educational and programming team. There are so many programs for children, teens, young couples and adults that we are about to initiate and the Elsteins will be a vital part of these programs. They are anxious to work with each one of you and I am sure that our entire congregation and community will reach out to them as well, learn with them and be inspired by them” said Rabbi Finkelstein.

Although Emanuel and Yael were both born in America, their parents made Aliya during their childhood.  Yael was born in Detroit, and grew up in Jerusalem from age 3.  She spent a year of her national service as a Shlicha (an Israeli ambassador of goodwill) in Milwaukee. Emanuel also grew up in Jerusalem after his parents made Aliya from New York.  He attended High School in Efrat, and then went to Hesder Yeshiva in Otniel.  He was a tank commander in the Israeli Defense Forces, and after he finished Yeshiva he went on Shlichut (an Israeli ambassador of goodwill) through Torah MiTzion to Silver Spring, Maryland.

Yael and Emanuel met at a Torah MiTzion conference in St. Louis, married in Israel and moved back to Jerusalem after living in Otniel.  Emanuel has been working in the World Bnei Akiva, in charge of screening and placing candidates for Shlichut. Bnei Akiva is the Religious Zionist Youth Movement, which inspires and empowers the Jewish Youth of North America with a deep commitment to the Jewish people, Am Yisrael, the land of Israel Eretz Yisrael, and the Torah, Torat Yisrael through a wide variety of informal educational programs. Yael is a certified paramedic and has been working in an emergency medical center.  They have three children – Shlomo (age 4), Tzvi (age 2) and Hodaya (7 months).

In looking forward to their new positions, the Elsteins stated, “We are all very excited to be coming on Shlichut to Memphis! Our children are already looking forward to getting on a plane.  We’ve met many people who have told us how warm and friendly the community is.  We are hoping to become part of your lives, and you a part of ours and we hope to get to know you all as quickly as possible.”

Baron Hirsch will host a Family BBQ on Sunday, August 8th, at 5:30PM, to welcome the Elstein family. The cost is just $10 per adult and $5 per child. RSVP to the shul office at 683-7485 or email gwen@baronhirsch.org

Baron Hirsch Plans Trivia Night

So you think that you’re tops in trivia? Whether it’s for the really important information or the useless junk that you’ve stored in your brain over the years you feel like you’ve got no equal. At least, that’s what you’ve been telling your friends for years.

Well, now it’s time to put your money where your mouth is. Come to Baron Hirsch on Sunday, June 27, 2010, for its second annual Trivia Night. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the first round starting at 7:00 p.m. You can form your own team with seven other experts or we’ll put you with a group that might need your help. A professional trivia jockey will be there to add to the fun, too.

Chairing the event is Sarah Thomas.  In discussing plans for the program, Sarah observed, “We received such wonderful feedback from our first event last year, and we are sure that those attending this year will have a great time as well.”

Trivia categories will spotlight Memphis history, sports, movies, politics, music and more. So, bring your thinking caps… and a friend or two. 

Everyone present must play. No on-lookers please – it might confuse the players. Each member of the first, second and third-place teams will receive a prize. 

Door prizes will be available and a silent auction will take place, too. A dairy dessert will also be served.

Cost is $15 in advance and $20 at the door.  For more information, contact Baron Hirsch at 683-7485.

Baron Hirsch to Honor Graduates

Baron Hirsch Congregation will honor over 50 young people who are marking educational milestones on Shabbat morning, June 5th.  The annual event recognizes all those within the membership who are graduating high school, 8th grade or kindergarten.

In honor of the special occasion, all of the graduating students will be recognized by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein during the services, and will each receive a special gift from the congregation.  A special Kiddush honoring the graduates and sponsored by their parents will be held in the Marsi Moss Social Hall following the service.

“We are very proud of the academic accomplishments of our young people,” stated Rabbi Finkelstein.  “This special Shabbat allows us to express this pride and celebrate these special milestones with all of our families.”

Graduating from High School are: Elisa Barrack, Ariel Cooper, Monte Eiseman, Rayna Exelbierd, Ali Fishman, Luki Guigui, Isaac Krupp, Alexis Leach, Adam Libby, Parker Mantell, Leor Reef, Kayla Rosenberg, Jessica Rubin, Ariav Schlesinger, Eliana Silbermann, Joshua Steiner, Courtney Thomas, Jordana Wender and Kevin Wender.

The 8th grade graduates include: Sarah Belz, Rochelle Bouchard, Shifra Ehrenkranz, Jamie Epstein, Gabe Goldstein, Isaac Graber, Sarah Greenblatt, Sima Greenblatt, Bryan Itkowitz, Benjamin Kampf, Gabe Kisber, Justin Libby, Shira Osdoba, Eden Siskind, Akiva Somer and Rachel Winestone.

Those graduating from kindergarten are: Michael Baum, Zev Bosin, Yishai Cohen, Serena Cooper, Yael Cooper, Yehuda Goldberg, Aaron Kahn, Harrison Lane, Alex Levinson, Samara Levinson, Elise Mendelson, Jacob Musicante, Akiva Nelson, Elisha Serman, Benjamin Siegel, Sarah Silberberg, Ava Weiss and Rena Wogan.

The service and Kiddush are open to all in the community.  Services begin at 9:00AM.  For more information, please contact the synagogue office at 683-7485.

Call Torah - Now Live-Streaming!

Rabbi Finkelstein’s popular Call Torah class is now available to watch online!

Live-streaming of the class begins Tuesdays at Noon. Visit www.stickam.com/baronhirsch to watch

If you miss watching the class live visit Baron Hirsch’s YouTube channel at the address below to view the video:
www.youtube.com/user/BaronHirschMemphis

Call April at 683-7485 or email april@baronhirsch.org for questions or more information.

Baron Hirsch Presents Special Scholar for Shavuot

The Baron Hirsch Educational Institute announced this week that it will be hosting Ms. Malka Adatto as its Scholar-in-Residence for the upcoming holiday of Shavuot, May 18 – 20th.

In making the announcement, Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of the congregation, stated, “We are very excited about welcoming Ms. Adatto to Baron Hirsch. We believe that Torah is for everyone, men and women alike, and it is a wonderful opportunity for our community to hear from a scholar like her.”

Ms. Adatto will be giving a number of lectures throughout the holiday, both during the congregation’s all night Torah study as well as on both holiday afternoons.  Her visit is part of the Ambassador Alfred H. Moses Women’s Leadership Initiative at Yeshiva University’s Center for the Jewish Future.  David Cooper, president of Baron Hirsch, stated. “We are honored to participate in Yeshiva University’s Shavuot Scholar in Residence Program for graduate women in their Masters Program for Advanced Talmud and Bible Interpretation.  We look forward to learning from Ms. Adatto, a most accomplished scholar. With so much discussion currently revolving around women’s role within the orthodox community, it will be most interesting to hear Ms. Adatto’s perspective.”

The first lectures by Ms. Adatto will be given at the Tikkun Leil Shavuot, the all night Torah study which is held on the first night of the holiday.  Baron Hirsch’s Tikkun Leil Shavuot will begin at Midnight of Tuesday night, May 18th, and conclude with an early Shacharit service on Wednesday morning at 5:15AM.  Ms. Adatto’s first lecture will be for High School students, and will begin at 12:15AM in the Hanover Library of Baron Hirsch.  The lecture is entitled “The Chosen People: A Religion of Responsibility”.

Ms. Adatto’s lecture to adults at the Tikkun will be at 1:45AM in the Margolin Bet Midrash.  The topic of this lecture will be “A Passionate Modern Orthodoxy: The Decline of the Generations”.

Even those who are unable to stay awake all night will benefit from Ms. Adatto’s visit.  She will also be giving a lecture on each afternoon of Shavuot at 6:45PM.  Lectures will take place in the Belz Sanctuary.  On Wednesday, May 19th, her topic will be “G-d’s Beloved? Perspectives on Chosenness”.  On Thursday, May 20th, her topic will be “The Agunah Crisis: Modern Answer to an Ancient Problem”.  All of Ms. Adatto’s lectures are open to the entire community.

Malka Adatto is the Senior Fellow in the Graduate Program for Women in Advanced Talmudic Studies (GPATS) at Yeshiva University and the Zusman Visiting Scholar at Congregation Ohev Shalom in Washington, D.C. Previously, she served as the Director of Development and Operations for ORA: The Organization for the Resolution of Agunot and has been a scholar in residence throughout North America lecturing on a wide range of topics regarding Jewish Identity and Halakha.

Yeshiva University’s Women’s Leadership Initiative was created to inspire young women to pursue service to the Jewish community and to offer emerging female leaders in the Orthodox community opportunities to actualize their potential.  The Center for the Jewish Future seeks to shape, enrich and inspire the contemporary Jewish community by convening the resources of Yeshiva University and infusing the student body with a spirit of leadership and sense of Klal Yisrael. 

For more information on Malka Adatto’s visit, or for other Shavuot programs at Baron Hirsch, please contact the synagogue office at 683-7485.

Baron Hirsch to Mark Jerusalem Day with Noted Scholar

Baron Hirsch Congregation announced this week that it will host Rabbi David Stav as its scholar-in-residence on the Shabbat of May 7 – 8.  Rabbi Stav, a founder of the Tzohar Rabbinical Organization in Israel, is appearing as part of the congregation’s observance of Yom Yerushalayim, the day marking the liberation of Jerusalem during the Six Day War in 1967.

“It is very fitting that during these days when we celebrate the gift of our beloved State of Israel and our eternal capital Jerusalem, that we host a leader who has been on the forefront of creating Jewish unity in the State of Israel,” stated Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch.  “Rabbi Stav has dedicated his life to bringing Jews of different backgrounds together, and his insights into the challenges facing the Jewish people in the 21st century is something that we all can learn from.”

Rabbi Stav will be speaking on several occasions throughout the weekend, including a Friday night Oneg, a Shabbat morning lecture, and a Shabbat afternoon class.  This will be Rabbi Stav’s second visit to Memphis, and those who heard him speak on his previous visit are looking forward to his return.

Rabbi David Stav a graduate of Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav is the Rabbi of the town of Shoham. In 1998, Rabbi Stav co-founded the Hesder Yeshiva in Petach Tikva with Rabbis Cherlow and Piron.  He teaches in Metivta, a women’s seminary in Bar Ilan University, and is the spokesman for Rashei Yeshivot Hesder across Israel.  Rabbi Stav holds a Semicha for Dayanut (Judgment in Rabbinical Court) and has taught at Yeshivat Hesder of Or Etzion, been the Rabbi at an Orthodox school for the study of film “Maale “ in Jerusalem, and the Rabbi of the Bnei Darom settlement, as well as a community in Belgium where, on Shlichut, Rabbi Stav also served as the Rosh Yeshiva.

The Tzohar organization was founded by a group of rabbis, including Rabbi Stav, from a religous Zionist background. Their hope was to become partners in the fashioning of the Jewish identity of the State of Israel, through dialogue and the search for common elements of identity, as opposed to the differences which threaten to polarize Israeli society. Tzohar’s activities are aimed at the full range of the population of the State of Israel, and includes officiating at weddings, pre-wedding counseling for brides and grooms, the advancement and ongoing counseling of community rabbis who are involved in all areas of life and the society, the publication of a quarterly journal, and the organization of conferences and study sessions devoted to the discussion of issues of topical interest. 

Hundreds of rabbis and educators volunteer through Tzohar, as they see this work as a mitzvah needed badly by the society at large. Tzohar’s activities are based on loyalty to the State of Israel, its laws and institutions, through faithful observance of the Halacha.
Tzohar has been supported by the AVI CHAI Fund since its inception.

Rabbi Stav’s visit is also made possible through the Orthodox Union and the Jewish Agency, who are partnering with Tzohar to bring talented Israeli Rabbis to speak throughout the United States.

All of Rabbi Stav’s talks are open to the public at no charge.  For more information on the times and topics of Rabbi Stav’s talks, please contact the Baron Hirsch office at 683-7485, or visit http://www.baronhirsch.org.

Anshei Sphard-Beth El Emeth, Baron Hirsch to hold service in honor of Israel’s 62nd Anniversary

The membership of both Baron Hirsch and Anshei Sphard-Beth El Emeth, along with the Torah MiTzion Kollel and Margolin Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva of the South will come together to hold a service in celebration of Israel’s 62nd Anniversary. 

The service, which is an annual tradition, will be held on Monday evening, April 19th, in the Belz Sanctuary of Baron Hirsch Synagogue beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Guest speakers at the event include Rabbi Joel Finkelstein of Anshei Sphard-Beth El Emeth, and Rabbi Avi Goldberg, Rosh Kollel of the Torah MiTzion Kollel of Memphis.  Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch, will address those gathered through a video message, as he will be in Israel participating in a Rabbinic mission of the Orthodox Union.

Cantors Ricky Kampf and Aryeh Samberg will participate as well, and will conduct the Yom Ha’Atzmaut Youth Choir which will perform at several points during the program.  The program will also include a play that will recount Israel’s vast history.  The play will feature students of the congregations and it is written and directed by the Torah MiTzion Kollel members.  A third group of children from the Margolin Hebrew Academy will participate in the flag dance, which has become an annual tradition of the program.

The program will begin with a memorial service honoring members of the Israel Defense Forces who have fallen in battle.  The core of the evening will center on the festive services. 

This event is open to all members of the community.  For more information contact the Baron Hirsch office 683-7485. 

Baron Hirsch Men’s Club Sponsors Family Zoo Day

The Baron Hirsch Men’s Club is proud to once again sponsor Family Day at the Memphis Zoo on Sunday, April 4.  This exciting day will be spent visiting all the wonderful attractions and the multitude of species the zoo has to offer, including the China Exhibit and the new Teton Trek exhibit.
In addition to the fantastic animal exhibits, there will be several activities just for those taking part in the Family Day.  At 11:00AM, guests will meet in the picnic area outside the Teton Trek exhibit for a special animal demonstration conducted by zoo docents exclusively for the Baron Hirsch Group.  Participants are urged to bring their Passover lunch, drinks and snacks.
Children of all ages can take part in a scavenger hunt which will lead them throughout the zoo.  Every child that participates will receive a prize, regardless of whether they complete the entire hunt. 
The Family Day is open to anyone in the community who wishes to attend.  Attendees are asked to enter the zoo on their own.  You can use your zoo membership, or pay the regular admission at the gate.  All of the special activities that the Men’s Club has arranged are offered at no additional cost.
Contact the Baron Hirsch office at (901) 683-7485 for more information.  Don’t miss this opportunity to visit with the pandas, the polar bears, the penguins and more. 

Pesach Service Times 5770

Sunday, March 28
Search for Chametz - after 8:00pm

Monday, March 29
Erev Pesach
Shacharit - 6:45am
Siyum for the First Born - 7:30am
Thank you to Dr. Jack & Esther Forman for sponsoring the annual breakfast in honor of the yarhzeit of David Ross, father of Esther Forman.

Latest time to eat Chametz - 10:29am
Lastest time to burn Chametz - 11:45am

Candle Lighting - 7:01pm
Mincha/Maariv - 7:05pm
Start Seder - after 8:01pm

Tuesday, March 30
1st Day of Passover
Shacharit (note later time) - 9:00am
Mincha/Maariv - 7:10pm
Light Candles/Start Seder - after 8:02pm

Wednesday, March 31
2nd Day of Passover
Shacharit (note later time) - 9:00am
Mincha/Maariv - 7:10pm

Shabbat April 3
Shabbat Chol HaMoed
Shacharit - 8:30am
Shir HaShirim
Mincha/Maariv - 7:00pm
Shabbat Ends - 8:05pm

Sunday, April 4th
Eve of 7th Day
Candle Lighting - 7:06pm
Mincha/Maariv - 7:10pm

Monday, April 5th
7th Day of Passover
Shacharit (note later time) - 9:00am
Mincha/Maariv - 7:15pm
Light Candles - after 8:07pm

Tuesday, April 6th
8th Day of Passover
Shacharit (note later time)- 9:00am
Yizkor appr. - 10:30am
Mincha/Maariv - 7:15pm
Yom Tov Ends - 8:07pm

Note: One should wait for one hour following the conclusion of the holiday to eat any Chametz which was sold in order to allow time for it to be purchased back.

Visit Rabbi Finkelstein’s new blog

Baron Hirsch Senior Rabbi, Shai Finkelstein, has created a blog to keep you informed about events and happenings at Baron Hirsch. Visit the blog at http://www.baronhirsch.blogspot.com

Baron Hirsch Book Club Continues to Flourish

If you’re looking for a good book, Sources: The Jewish History Book Club at Baron Hirsch has a few suggestions.  Currently, the club is reading My Father’s Paradise by Ariel Sabar, the story of Iraqi Kurdish Jews and one man’s efforts to preserve what was thought to be their dead language-Aramaic. The discussion will take place on Monday, April 12th at 7:00PM at Baron Hirsch and will be led by Talya Tsuna.

Dr. Ellis Tavin, Baron Hirsch member and founder of the group, explained his purpose behind starting ‘Sources’. “My motivation for starting the book club was as a supplement to the usual adult education classes or sermons which tend to focus on the Tanach (bible). We are often challenged by news reports that distort Jewish history or Israeli history. Without knowledge we cannot intelligently respond. The format of the book club is not didactic and encourages participation. We take turns as discussion leaders. Anybody is welcome to suggest a book, but most of the selections have been my recommendations. I probably read four books to find one book that I think the group will like. Previous books have covered topics as diverse as blood libels, the Six Day War, the life of a Jewish woman in 17th century Germany, an early American Jewish family, and Jewish partisans during WWII. Our current selection, My Father’s Paradise is a history of Iraqi Kurdish Jews and their struggles to preserve their heritage and overcome discrimination once they moved to Israel.”

The club formed in November of 2007 picking Six Days of War by Michael Oren as their first selection.  Since the formation of the group they have read sixteen different non-fiction books focusing various realms of Jewish history.  From the stories of a Warsaw zookeeper and his wife who helped shelter Jews during the occupation of Poland in The Zookeeper’s Wife to the memoirs of a Jewish businesswoman widow in in the late-seventeenth-early eighteenth century Germany in The Memoirs of Gluckel of Hameln. The numbers of the group have grown steadily since its inception, typically the group meets every other month at the I.E. Hanover Library at Baron Hirsch to discuss the chosen book.

For more information contact Baron Hirsch at 683-7485.

Education Minyan Open to all Backgrounds

Baron Hirsch Congregation resumes its popular Education Minyan this Shabbat morning, March 20th.  This special minyan is held once a month and is a combination service and class.  Over the last several years, scores of individuals have participated in this interesting and enlightening group.  The service runs from 9:30AM until 10:20AM. Following the service, participants return to the main Shabbat minyan. 

Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch says “The Educational Minyan explores the deep meanings of the blessings of the silent prayer. Participants will acquire vast knowledge on the daily prayer and an understanding of the Hebrew words.”

Rabbi Finkelstein leads the Education Minyan, which gives participants a chance to learn the origin of the prayers we say, including the meaning behind them and the philosophy behind their arrangement. 

The service is open to anyone in the community, and no background is necessary.  The next Education Minyan will be held on April 24th.  For more information, please contact the synagogue office at 683-7485.

Baron Hirsch to Host Annual Cholent Cook Off

Get out your chef hat, Baron Hirsch Congregation has announced it will host its Annual Cholent Cook-Off on Shabbat, March 13th.  Twenty expert chefs will have the opportunity to make their own cholent, serve it at Kiddush, and have the congregation vote for the best one. This year there will also be special ‘celebrity’ judges who will help decide who makes the best cholent. 

This is the third year Baron Hirsch has held the Cholent contest which brings a variety of cooks together to compete for most delicious cholent. Past first-place winners have included Baron Hirsch members Sally Wender and Lee Silberberg. “It’s always fun to try the different cholents, everyone makes their cholent differently and I love tasting what others have cooked up” says one enthusiastic judge.

Public tasting and judging will take place at the morning Kiddush, there is no cost to participate in the Kiddush/Judging.  For more information contact the Baron Hirsch office at 683-7485.

Baron Hirsch to Honor Cantor Ricky Kampf

Baron Hirsch Congregation will be honoring Cantor Ricky Kampf this Shabbat, March 6th, with a special Kiddush following morning services.  Cantor Kampf is being recognized for his 20 years of dedicated service to Baron Hirsch. He joined the Baron Hirsch family in 1989.  During his first years he served the congregation as the assistant Shaliach Tzibur and Executive Director.  He received his cantorial degree from the Belz School of Jewish Music at Yeshiva University in 2005.

Cantor Ricky’s melodious voice is a highlight of all of Baron Hirsch’s Shabbat and holiday services.  His Kabbalat Shabbat service every Friday night fills the synagogue with excitement and energy, and has been one of the congregation’s most popular services for some ten years.  People of all ages attend and welcome in the Shabbat with song and dance. 

In addition to the weekly Shabbat services, Cantor Kampf also leads all of the holiday services at Baron Hirsch, and works particularly hard at growing member participation through the Men’s and Boys’ Choirs that make the High Holy Days so meaningful.  “Over the last number of years, dozens of boys have learned the holiday tunes through their participation in the boys choir,” said David Cooper, president of Baron Hirsch.  “Hearing Cantor Ricky sing with the boys is truly one of the most special moments of the holiday services.”

Cantor Kampf is also a master Bar Mitzvah teacher, who has taught torah reading and davening to countless boys throughout the city.  He has also helped many people prepare their haftorah for special occasions such as an ufruff, bar mitzvah anniversary or special birthday.

Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch stated, “Everyone who comes to our shul is inspired by the beautiful melodies and the harmonious voice of our Cantor Ricky Kampf.  His love for our shul and for every member, from a Bar Mitzvah boy and to those he helps with leining and davening is admired by all.  I am so happy to have him as a Cantor and as a friend.  Ricky and his family are enriching our shul’s life and I would like wish to Ricky and his family another hundred years of beautiful service to Baron Hirsch.”

Cantor Kampf is married to Anat, who is the Menahelet (administrator) of the Goldie Margolin High School for Girls.  They have five children, Kaylee, Raquel, Benjamin, Ariel and Jack.  He is the son of Lottie Kampf, who moved to Memphis in 2008, and the late Jack Kampf.

The entire community is invited to join the congregation to honor Cantor Kampf on this special occasion.  Shabbat morning services begin at 8:30AM.

Baron Hirsch Sisterhood Plans Fashion Show & Luncheon

The temperature may be chilly but the Baron Hirsch Sisterhood is preparing for the impending warmer weather with a fashion show.  The Sisterhood will host “Spring into Spring”, a community-wide fashion show and luncheon on Tuesday, March 9th at noon at Baron Hirsch.  There will be fashions by Doncaster, represented by Melinda Rothenberg, and hats by Dinah Makowsky Millinery.

Sisterhood President, Madelyne Daneman says “We are very excited about hosting this event for ladies in the entire community. I am sure it’s going to be a success.”

In addition to the lovely clothing and headwear, the dairy luncheon promises to be elegant and delicious.  The cost is just $12 per person and reservations can be made by calling the Baron Hirsch office at (901) 683-7485 or emailing gwen@baronhirsch.org.  The reservation deadline is Thursday, March 4. 

Baron Hirsch Plans Purim Services

Baron Hirsch Congregation has announced its service schedule for the celebration of Purim, which begins Saturday night, February 27.  Maariv services will be in the Belz Sanctuary at 6:50PM, followed by the reading of the Megillah at 7:00PM.  Graggers will be available for all the children, and costumes are encouraged.  Since Shabbat ends at at 6:36PM that evening, it is recommended that individuals make havdalah at home before coming to shul for the Megillah reading.

On Purim, Sunday, February 28th, Shacharit will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Megillah reading.  The second Megillah reading will commence at 11:00 a.m. and Mincha will be at 4:15 p.m.  Following Mincha services, at 4:30 p.m., will be the Purim Seudah and Carnival.  The Seudah (festive meal) on Purim is referred to in the Megillah as Yemai Mishteh Simcha. This is to be a festive occasion where family and friends gather to eat at a holiday-prepared table with song and merry-making.

A minyan for Maariv will take place following the Seudah at 7:00PM.

Purim Joy Takes Center Stage at Baron Hirsch

Question - What do Queen Esther, the Flinstones and a Whoopie cushion have in common?  Answer – they were all award winning costumes at last year’s Purim Seudah at Baron Hirsch.

Baron Hirsch Congregation is busy preparing for the feast of all feasts, the party of all parties – the annual Purim Seudah – the festive meal and celebration honoring the Purim holiday.  “Baron Hirsch is proud of every holiday event it sponsors,” stated congregation President David Cooper, “but Purim is always over the top, when we go to great lengths to bring the happiness of the holiday to everyone.”

What is it that makes the Baron Hirsch Purim so special?  One parent said, “I love how they run their carnival along with the meal.  It allows both the children and adults to have fun at the same event.” A 2nd grade student said, “I remember the last carnival.  I won a lot of prizes and even a goldfish!”

The weather may be cold, but the Baron Hirsch Purim Seudah is hot, with many new activities being organized.  The festivities are planned for Purim Day, Sunday, February 28th at 4:30PM.  The gala meal will begin with hors d’oeuvres of meatballs and other specialties.  The main course will feature a traditional southern menu of fried chicken and mashed potatoes, with an option of grilled chicken available to those who prefer.  And for desert will be, of course, delicious hamentashen.  Complementary wine is available for all adults.

While the delicious food is an important part of every Jewish celebration, it is just the tip of the iceberg at the Baron Hirsch Purim Seudah.  This year, the organizers have gone to great lengths to make sure that everyone will have fun activities to celebrate the day.  In the Marsi Moss Social Hall where the meal will be served, there will be a live band led by Cantor Ricky Kampf along with several other local musicians.  There will be lots of music and dancing in the true Purim spirit.  There will also be a costume contest for all ages – with prizes for several youth divisions as well as the adult division.

Children will also be busy with the annual Purim carnival which will be held in the adjoining Parker-Margolin Tabernacle and Fogelman Foyer.  This year’s carnival is being organized by several of the congregation’s young couples, and will be supervised by Memphis’ Senior NCSY Chapter.  There will be over a dozen booths for children of all ages and lots of prizes to be won. 

And the adults have not been forgotten either.  A committee of members is busy working on entertainment that the adults will enjoy while the children are playing at the carnival.  In past years, adults have enjoyed Let’s Make a Deal, a money pit, and other innovative ideas.  This year’s surprises should be nothing less than fantastic.

All of the food, entertainment and fun is just $20 for adults and teens, and children 12 and under pay their age.  Children’s admissions include a starting package of tickets for the carnival.  Reservations can be made by calling the Baron Hirsch office at 683-7485.

Early reservations are highly recommended, as the Seudah is often a sold out event.

Baron Hirsch Plans Friday Night Dinner in Conjunction with OU Community Scholars Weekend

Baron Hirsch Congregation will be hosting a Family Friday Night Dinner on February 5.  The dinner is being held in combination with the Orthodox Union Community Scholars Weekend which will feature OU Executive Vice President, Rabbi Steven Weil as Scholar-in-Residence. 

“Spending Shabbat evening with family and friends is an important part of being a member of our community.  We are excited to have Rabbi Weil in Memphis and sharing a delicious meal with us” says Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch.

The evening will begin with Kabbalat Shabbat services at 5:00PM, followed by the dinner at 6:30PM.  Dinner guests will enjoy a delicious meal of gelfite fish, chicken soup, stuffed chicken breast, risotto, carrot kugel and more.  Additionally, there will be a special menu of baked chicken tenders, pasta and mixed vegetables, just for children.  Reservations for the dinner can be made by calling 683-7485.  The cost is $20 per adult and children 12 and under pay their age, due to limited seating those who want to attend the dinner are urged to reserve as soon as possible.

After the dinner, Rabbi Weil will speak at 7:45PM, no reservations are needed to hear Rabbi Weil speak.  For teens there will be a special Oneg at 7:45PM led by Rabbi Moshe Isenberg, Associate Regional Director of the Midwest NCSY.  Childcare will be provided during Rabbi Weil’s lecture. 

Baron Hirsch’s Friday Night Dinners are among the congregation’s more popular events.  Held several times throughout the year, people of all ages and backgrounds attend, and the entire social hall is filled with warmth and Shabbat spirit.  “I love having the ability to enjoy Shabbat with so many of my friends in such a relaxed and fun atmosphere,” stated one member following the last dinner.

For more information or to make dinner reservations contact the Baron Hirsch office at 683-7485. 

David Cooper Elected President of Baron Hirsch

Baron Hirsch Congregation held its annual general membership meeting and elections on January 17, 2010.  The meeting, which was held in the Marsi Moss Social Hall of the congregation, began with a gala brunch.

Presiding over the meeting was Sidney Mendelson, who was completing two years of service as president of the Baron Hirsch.  Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of the congregation, presented the major annual awards.

In his opening remarks, Rabbi Finkelstein praised both the leadership and the membership for the tremendous efforts that have led to many successes, and the feeling of closeness which exists within the congregation.  In speaking about Mr. Mendelson, Rabbi Finkelstein stated, “For two years I cannot recall a time in which Sidney did not say ‘henaini – here I am’, and this call was always with passion, feelings, love and care for the shul at large and for each member in particular.”

Congregation member Mark Hayden received the Louis Turetsky Memorial Chesed Award.  In expressing his feelings about the special nature of Baron Hirsch, Mr. Hayden remarked, “We’re lucky here- we’ve got a fine clergy, great clerical staff, nice membership and a lot of cute kids. How could you not smile at that?” Mr. Hayden further stated that he is motivated to do things for the shul and community in order to give something back.  “Whether it is giving to a community or in this case giving back to our synagogue, just give something back to an institution that’s filled and enriched our lives,” Hayden urged.

Frank Udelsohn was the recipient of the Sam Abraham Memorial Award as the 2009 Member of the Year.  In accepting the award, Mr. Udelsohn mentioned how proud he was to receive the same award that his father, of blessed memory, received as president of Baron Hirsch back in 1977.  Furthermore, he stated, “I have been chosen from a group of many who volunteer on a daily basis for our great and wonderful shul.” Mr. Sidney Abraham, son of the late Sam Abraham, presented the award which carries his father’s name.

In his remarks on the state of the congregation, Mr. Mendelson reported on the growing involvement in many of the congregation’s classes and events.  “I am very proud to have had the honor in serving the Baron Hirsch Congregation over the last two years. The congregation has accomplished so much by working together thanks to our Senior Rabbi, Rabbi Shai Finkelstein,” stated Mr. Mendelson.  “We have grown in so many ways, which include membership, additional new classes, along with an increase in shul volunteers. I am proud of our new incoming president, David Cooper, along with the executive committee and Board of Trustees as I know under their leadership that Baron Hirsch will continue to prosper. I look forward in continuing to serve Baron Hirsch, which has become such an important part of my life, in the years to come.”

Sidney Goldstein, representing Goldstein & Associates P.C., gave the financial report to the membership.  Bernard Lipsey, chairman of the congregation’s nominating committee, presented the slate of officers and trustees for the approval of the membership.

David Cooper, who was elected president, is Executive Vice President of Cooper Companies.  He is the immediate past president of the Margolin Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva of the South, and serves on many other boards throughout the community. 

Others elected to positions as officers were: Irvin Skopp - 1st Vice President/Gabbai Rishon; Pace Cooper - 2nd Vice President; Gary Makowsky – Vice president; Marty Belz - Vice President; Harold Wormser - Treasurer; Morris Thomas - Secretary; Elliot Wender - Gabbai Shaynee; Louis Safier – Assistant Gabbai, Eric Schubert – Assistant Gabbai and Gerald Ballin – Warden. 

Elected to the Board of Trustees for two-year terms were: Robert Cohen, Allen Exelbierd, Dr. Lauren Levinson, Neal Loskovitz, Lyda Parker, Emily Steinberg, Dr. Ellis Tavin, Sarah Thomas, Frank Udelsohn and Adrian Weissman.  Elected to the Board of Trustees for a one-year term were Lee Baum and Dr. Marc Silberberg.

Monday Night Guest Lecturer Series Continues at Baron Hirsch

Mr. Yossi Cohen, Judaic Studies Teacher at Memphis Jewish High School, will be the next speaker of the congregation’s popular Monday Night Guest Lecture Series, announced Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch and head of its Educational Institute.  Mr. Cohen will begin his series on Monday, February 1st at 7:00PM. 

The topic of the upcoming series is “Choice in the Book of Bereshit”.  The first lecture on February 1st will be entitled “The Choice between Isaac and Ishmael as Seen through the Torah, Art and Ancient Law.” On February 8th he will speak about “The Choice between Jacob and Esau as Seen through the Story.  Finally, on February 15th Mr. Cohen will conclude his series with “The Choice in Judah and Josef; from Judah to Judah HaMacca
Yossi Cohen is a graduate of the Har Etzion Hesder Yeshiva in Alon Shvut, Israel.  He received a B.Ed. in Bible and Talmud from Herzog College in Israel and a M.A. in Land of Israel studies and Archeology from Bar Ilan University in Israel.  Prior to arriving at Memphis Jewish High School, he taught at Bnei Akiva Yeshiva High School in Hashmonaim, Israel. 

Each month, the congregation invites a different guest lecturer to deliver a three week mini-series on a topic of their expertise.  Mr. Cohen will be leading the fourth series this year.  Over the past several months Baron Hirsch has welcomed other guest lecturers including, Rabbi Dr. Gil Perl, Dean of Margolin Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva of the South, Rabbi Avi Goldberg, Rosh Kollel of Torah MiTzion Kollel of Memphis, AND Rabbi Uriel Lubetski, upper school principal of MHA/FYOS.  The class continues to bring in people of all ages and backgrounds to learn about a variety of topics.

All classes begin at 7:00PM and the series is open to all members of the community.  Classes take place in the Margolin Bet Midrash of the synagogue. For more information, please contact the Baron Hirsch office at 683-7485 or visit the synagogue website at http://www.baronhirsch.org

Renowned Author George Gilder to Speak at Baron Hirsch

Baron Hirsch Congregation is proud to announce George Gilder, the noted author of The Israel Test, will be speaking on Sunday, January 24th.  The event will take place in the Belz Sanctuary at Baron Hirsch at 7pm and the event is free and open to the public.  This special event is made possible by Barbara and Ira Lipman.  Baron Hirsch and Temple Israel have joined together to help promote this event and to extend its reach to all members of the community. 

George Gilder is the founder and publisher of Gilder Publishing, a technology research and consulting company, and co-founded the Discovery Institute, a leading think tank based in Seattle.  Mr. Gilder is also the most quoted living author in speeches given by former President Ronald Reagan.  He served as a speechwriter for former President Nixon.  George Gilder is the author of fifteen books, including the international best-seller, Wealth & Poverty. 

Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch spoke about the Mr. Gilder’s upcoming appearance.  “This is going to be an event that you will not want to miss.  To have such a noted author and thinker is a fantastic opportunity to learn and connect to our beloved homeland, the State of Israel.  The state of Israel brings all Jews together and it is only fitting that Baron Hirsch and Temple Israel, along with my friend and Senior Rabbi Micah Greenstein, join together in this endeavor.  As an Israeli I was pleased with Mr. Gilder’s accurate portrayal of the Israeli economy and inner strength.  I am very grateful for Barbara and Ira Lipman’s support in bringing Mr. Gilder to Baron Hirsch.”

Temple Israel’s Senior Rabbi Micah Greenstein also shared his excitement about the upcoming event.  “To be a Jew is a blessing and a gift, one which we often take for granted in America - especially when it comes to the sheer existence and miracle of the State of Israel.  In the acclaimed new book, “The Israel Test,” well-known writer and Episcopalian, George Gilder, reawakens the call every Jew and every American ought to hear.  How blessed Baron Hirsch and Temple Israel are to have Ira Lipman bring to Memphis for the entire community a speaker whose message is not to be missed; and how delighted I am to partner with Rabbi Shai Finkelstein and invite the entire community, on behalf of our two congregations, to this great event.”

In The Israel Test, Gilder makes the case for Israel, portraying a conflict of barbarism, envy and death against civilization, creativity and life.  Gilder reveals Israel as a leader of human civilization, technological progress, and scientific advance.  Tiny Israel stands behind only the United States in its contributions to the hi-tech economy.  Israel has become the world’s paramount example of the blessings of freedom.  And yet Israel is the most hated nation in the world today.  Why?  Israel is hated for her virtues, for her achievements; for all that she has done well.  Israel is hated, as the United States is hated, because Israel is successful, because Israel is free, and because Israel is good. 

For more information contact the Baron Hirsch office at (901) 683-7485.

Baron Hirsch to Honor Members at Annual Meeting

Baron Hirsch Congregation announced this week that Frank Udelsohn would be receiving the 2009 Sam Abraham Member of the Year Award, and that Mark Hayden would receive the 2009 Louis Turetsky Chesed Award.  The awards will be presented at the congregation’s annual general membership meeting and elections, which will take place on January 17, 2009.  The meeting, which will begin at 11:30AM, will be preceded by a brunch at 10:30AM.

In making the announcement, Congregation President Sidney Mendelson stated, “Our leadership is proud to be honoring two people who exemplify the spirit of volunteerism and self sacrifice that are so important to a successful organization.  Both of these individuals give countless hours of their time both to the synagogue and to the Memphis community at large.”

Frank Udelsohn has been a member of the Board of Trustees for 4 years, and is currently President of the Baron Hirsch Men’s Club.  “Not a week goes by where Frank is not involved in some aspect of the shul,” observed Mr. Mendelson.  “Whether it is bringing siddurim and chairs to a shiva home or working on an upcoming event, Frank is always ready to give of his time to the congregation.” For many years, Frank has been active in coordinating singles programming at the shul, and has also been a volunteer for Camp Darom and other youth activities.  He and his wife, Bracha, have sponsored many youth activities, including the congregation’s High Holy Day youth programs and its popular Chol HaMoed Youth Day.

“Frank is a prime example of how one should feel towards their synagogue,” observed Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch.  “While he is an active member who regularly attends services, classes and other programs, he also realizes the need to give back however he can.  We are proud to honor Frank, and to have him and Bracha among our most active and committed volunteers.”

The Louis Turetsky Chesed Award is being presented to Mark Hayden.  Mark devotes a tremendous amount of time to activities both at Baron Hirsch and the community.  “Mark’s impact at Baron Hirsch has been tremendous,” stated David Fleischhacker, executive director of the congregation.  “He is always ready to help others who are in need, and is always available to lend a hand around the synagogue.”

Currently, Mark is a member of the Board of Trustees.  He is a regular volunteer who helps out at numerous events.  Mark is a favorite of the children of the congregation, whether he is popping popcorn for a youth event, or handing out candy to a smiling child on Shabbat.  In addition to the public events, he helps out in many ways that people never see.  Whether it is taking care of the plants around the synagogue or delivering directories to member’s houses, he is someone who can’t say no.  Mark also spends a lot of time visiting and calling people who are ill, or who need extra assistance or even just a friendly face. 

Rabbi Finkelstein will present the awards to all of the honorees.  Sidney Mendelson will deliver the State of the Synagogue address, and preside over the meeting.  While only members may participate in the elections of officers, anyone is welcome to attend the brunch and meeting.  The cost of the brunch is $15, and reservations may be made by contacting the synagogue office at 683-7485.

Baron Hirsch to Host Synaplex Shabbat Focusing on Environmental Issues

Baron Hirsch Congregation will be hosting a Synaplex Shabbat this Shabbat, January 16th.  This Shabbat will be the first of the month of Shevat, in which we celebrate Tu B’Shevat, the holiday we celebrate nature.  To correlate with Tu B’Shevat, the theme of the Synaplex Shabbat will be ways to lessen your impact on the environment and things you can do in your everyday life to be less wasteful and conserve.

Services begin at 8:30AM in the Belz Sanctuary with the popular Education Minyan beginning at 9:30AM.  The Education Minyan is led by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch.  This special minyan is held once a month and is a combination service and class.  The service runs from 9:30AM until 10:20AM. Following the service, participants return to the main Shabbat minyan.

At 11:00AM, our Synaplex program will begin with Senior Rabbi Shai Finkelstein introducing environmental issues from a Torah point of view.  Rabbi Finkelstein stated “This issue of ‘going green’ and being responsible for our world is deeply rooted in our tradition.  Separation between products and materials are not a foreign concept in Orthodoxy.” Baron Hirsch Member Anne Reef will speak and share ideas about taking small steps around the home and little lifestyle practices in hopes that they will help us all make a positive difference.  Anne was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa and she and her husband, Dr. Ellis Reef came to Memphis in 1988.  Ms. Reef has undergraduate and graduate degrees in English, Human Resources and English Literature.  She is currently completing work to receive her PhD in Textual Studies.  The majority of her literary research has focused on how the environment is portrayed in literature.  She cites living though a severe water shortage in South Africa as one of the defining moments in her life.  The water shortage caused households to be given only 10 gallons of water each day for all functions, including drinking water, bathing, laundry, cooking, gardening, etc. 

Following the presentation at 11:45AM, there will be a special Kiddush that celebrates the first environmentally friendly Kiddush at Baron Hirsch that will use only recyclable materials.  All members of the community are invited to attend this Synaplex Shabbat. 

Baron Hirsch Announces Next Guest Lecturer for Monday Evening Series

Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch and head of its Educational Institute has announced its next guest lecturer for their popular Monday Evening Guest Lecture Series, Rabbi Uriel Lubetski.  Rabbi Lubetski will begin his series on Monday, January 4th at 7:00PM.  Each month, the congregation invites a different guest lecturer to deliver a three week mini-series on a topic of their expertise. 

Recent guest lecturers include Rabbi Dr. Gil Perl, Dean of Margolin Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva of the South and Rabbi Avi Goldberg, Rosh Kollel of Torah MiTzion Kollel of Memphis.  Both have enjoyed a wonderful response from the many participants. 

Rabbi Uriel Lubetski is the Upper School Principal at Margolin Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva of the South.  He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, a Master’s Degree in Information Systems, a Master’s Degree in Jewish History, Rabbinical Ordination from Yeshiva University, and is a doctoral candidate in Educational Administration.  Previously he served for nine years as a teacher and Assistant Principal at Yeshiva University High School for Boys in New York and three years as the Upper School Principal at Yeshivat Rambam in Baltimore. 

The upcoming series will be entitled “The Events of the First Crusade (1096) & its Effect on Ashkenazic Jewry.” The January 4 class will focus on The Christian perspective, wow were Jews viewed by their Christian neighbors? How were Christian/Jewish relations regulated during this time period? What motivated the Christians of the time period to attack or defend the Jews?  The second lecture on January 11 will discuss Jewish perspective, how did the Jews respond to these attacks? What led to the extreme behavior of martyrdom?  The final lecture on January 18 will be about effects of 1096, what lasting effects did the events of 1096 have on the Jewish community?
All classes begin at 7:00PM and the series is open to all members of the community.  Classes take place in the Margolin Bet Midrash of the synagogue. For more information, please contact the Baron Hirsch office at 683-7485 or visit the synagogue website at http://www.baronhirsch.org

Baron Hirsch Plans Annual Chanukah Dinner

Baron Hirsch Congregation will host its annual Chanukah Dinner for its membership and the community on Friday evening, December 11th.  The dinner, which coincides with the first night of Chanukah, will take place in the Marsi Moss Social Hall.

“Chanukah is one of the special times during the year that we gather together at the synagogue to celebrate,” observed Sidney Mendelson, president of the congregation.  “We are preparing for a large crowd, and expect to have over 300 people join us for this festive occasion.”

The evening will begin with Kabbalat Shabbat services at 4:35PM, followed by the dinner at 5:45PM.  A wonderful menu has been developed, and will include delicious potato latkes, grilled chopped steak, spinach and broccoli kugel, and more.  There is also a special children’s menu featuring latkes, hamburger steak and pasta.

This year’s Chanukah dinner not only coincides with Shabbat, but it is also being scheduled in conjunction with a special Scholar-in-Residence weekend.  Last week, the Baron Hirsch Educational Institute announced that it will be hosting Professor Marc Shapiro for the entire Shabbat.  Professor Shapiro, a well sought after speaker, will give three lectures over the course of Shabbat.  The overall theme of the series is “Orthodoxy: Facing the Challenges of the Modern World”.

The first of Professor Shapiro’s lectures will be held immediately after the dinner at 7:15PM, and is entitled, “Rabbi Jehiel Jacob Weinberg & the Challenge of Halakhah and Modernity”.  During the lecture, a special youth program will take place, which will include a congregation wide dreidel contest for children of all ages.  Adults and youth will join back together following their programs for a community oneg.

The cost of the dinner is $20 per adult, and $12 per child (ages 5 – 12).  Children 4 and under are free.  Reservations can be made by sending payment to the Baron Hirsch office.  Despite the large numbers that will be accommodated, a sell out of the event is expected, and the congregation urges those interested to make their reservations as soon as possible.  For more information, please contact the congregation office at 683-7485.

Baron Hirsch to Host Scholar-in-Residence for Chanukah

The Baron Hirsch Educational Institute announced this week that it will be hosting Professor Marc Shapiro for the weekend of December 11 – 12.  Professor Shapiro, a well sought after speaker, will give three lectures over the course of Shabbat.  The overall theme of the series is “Orthodoxy: Facing the Challenges of the Modern World”.

Making the announcement were Pace Cooper and Dr. Ellis Tavin, co-chairs of the adult education committee at Baron Hirsch.  “Professor Shapiro is a much sought after speaker who has lectured at many of the prominent synagogues across the country,” said Mr. Cooper.  “We are very honored that he will be spending this special Shabbat in Memphis.”

“Of all his areas of expertise, we have specifically designed a program centered on several famous personalities in the Modern orthodox world,” added Dr. Tavin.  “Professor Shapiro will be able to share his unique insights on topics that are of great interest.”

The first lecture will take place on Friday night, December 11th at 7:15PM, and is entitled, “Rabbi Jehiel Jacob Weinberg & the Challenge of Halakhah and Modernity”.  Rabbi Weinberg was the most unusual and creative halakhic authority of the twentieth century.  His life is the story of twentieth century Jewry and how one man struggled to ensure that halakhah remain relevant to Orthodox Jews.  The lecture will follow the congregation’s annual Chanukah dinner, which begins at 5:45PM.  A special youth program will take place during the lecture.

On Shabbat morning, December 12th, Professor Shapiro will speak following morning services.  The lecture, which will begin at 11:00AM, is entitled “Rabbi Isaac Herzog & the Challenge of Halakhah in Building a State”.  Rabbi Herzog, whose passing fifty years ago we are now commemorating, was forced to deal with issues Jews hadn’t thought about in 2000 years. The creation of a State of Israel meant that all sorts of halakhic problems needed to be solved. Was it possible to run an army and police force according to halakhah? How can Shabbat be observed in a completely Jewish settlement when halakhah always assumed that there would be a non-Jew available to perform certain required actions? How does one bring the Shulhan Arukh up to date, and apply it to a society that was never contemplated by earlier halakhists. That was Rabbi Herzog’s mission and legacy.

The third lecture will take place at 3:30PM on Shabbat afternoon, and is entitled “Rabbi Shlomo Goren – Building the Halakhah in the Modern State of Israel”.  Rabbi Goren had a vision of Judaism in the reborn state of Israel. A new era had begun and Judaism must respond accordingly.  This meant that the halakhah of the galut must come to terms with the new reality and the halakhists are called upon to create a Land of Israel halakhah. If it sounds radical, it was, and the lecture will examine the views and controversies of Rabbi Goren, the brilliant Chief Rabbi of Israel.

Professor Shapiro holds the Weinberg Chair in Judaic Studies at the University of Scranton. He is the author of Between the Yeshiva World and Modern Orthodoxy and the Limits of Orthodox Theology, both of which were National Jewish Book Award Finalists. He also is the author of Saul Lieberman and the Orthodox and Studies in Maimonides and His Interpreters. 

Professor Shapiro’s visit is made possible through the Scholar-in-Residence fund at Baron Hirsch, established by Larissa and Ben Baer.  The lectures are free of charge and open to the entire community.  For more information, or to make reservations for the Chanukah dinner, please contact the synagogue office at 683-7485.

Baron Hirsch Announces New Season of Guest Lecture Series

The Baron Hirsch Educational Institute announced this week its schedule for the upcoming Fall season of its Monday Evening Guest Lecture Series.  Each month, the congregation invites a different guest lecturer to deliver a three week mini-series on a topic of their expertise.  All classes will take place in the Margolin Bet Midrash of the synagogue.

This program, now in its second year, saw as many as 50 participants in sessions last year. Senior Rabbi Shai Finkelstein is the director of the Educational Institute.  “In addition to the many wonderful weekly classes we offer, we also wanted to give our members greater access to the many talented educators and speakers who we have in our community,” said Rabbi Finkelstein.  “We appreciate them lending their talents to this special program.”

The first mini series will begin on Monday, November 9th at 7:30, and will be given by Rabbi Dr. Gil Perl, Dean of Margolin Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva of the South.  This three week series is entitled “Chasidim vs. Mitnagdim: A Look into the Eye of the Storm”.  The first lecture on November 9 will focus on the birth of Chasidut and its startling spread.  The second lecture on November 16 will look at the Vilna Gaon and the opposition movement to Chasidut.  The last lecture on November 23rd will examine the rise of the yeshivot and the ideology of Torah study.  There is no charge for any of these classes, and no background is necessary.

Rabbi Dr. Gil Perl is in his third year as Dean of MHA/FYOS. He has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania with a double major in Intellectual History and Asian and Middle Eastern Studies. He went on to complete a Master’s and Doctorate at Harvard University in Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations. He received smicha from Yeshiva University’s Rabbi Isaac Elchanon Theological Seminary, where he served as an instructor of Jewish History in Yeshiva College and was honored as Professor of the Year for 2005-2006. Rabbi Perl also served on the administration of YU’s boys’ high school, first as the Director of Admissions and then as the Associate Head of School. Before coming to YU, Rabbi Dr. Perl served as an instructor of Jewish Law at the Prozdor Hebrew High School in Newton, Massachusetts, and later as Head of the Jewish Law department. He was also an award winning Teaching Fellow at Harvard University.

A second mini-series will be held on Monday evenings beginning November 30th by Rabbi Avi Goldberg, Rosh Kollel of Torah MiTzion Kollel of Memphis.  Future series in January and February will be given by Mr. Yossi Cohen of the Judaic Studies faculty of the Memphis Jewish High School and Rabbi Uriel Lubetski, upper school principal of MHA/FYOS.

For more information, please contact the Baron Hirsch office at 683-7485.

Baron Hirsch Education Minyan Returns on October 31

Baron Hirsch Congregation will begin a new season of its popular Education Minyan on Saturday morning, October 31st.  This special minyan is held once a month and is a combination service and class.  Over the last several years, scores of individuals have participated in this interesting and enlightening group.  The service runs from 9:30AM until 10:20AM. Following the service, participants return to the main Shabbat minyan. 

Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch, says of the Education Minyan: “Like in any relationship you need to know the other partner.  Davening is a relationship between us and G-d.  In this minyan you can learn about yourself and your partner, G-d.”

Rabbi Finkelstein leads the Education Minyan, which gives participants a chance to learn the origin of the prayers we say, including the meaning behind them and the philosophy behind their arrangement. 

This year, the minyan will continue to focus on the different parts of the Amidah, the silent prayer.  The service is open to anyone in the community, and no background is necessary.  Upcoming dates for the Education Minyan are November 21st and December 19th.  For more information, please contact the synagogue office at 683-7485.

Final Plans Announced for Rabbi Skopp Tribute Weekend

As community members prepare to gather this weekend to honor the memory of Rabbi Cantor David W. Skopp, Baron Hirsch Congregation completed plans for its weekend tribute, which will be held on October 24 – 25.  “Our leadership has worked on this program for the past six months,” stated Sidney Mendelson, president of the congregation.  “When someone dedicates over a half century of their lives to one institution or community, there are a lot of people who want to take part in saying thank you.”

In fact, scores of people have contacted Baron Hirsch over the past number of months with their memories.  “We have heard stories, seen pictures and collected articles written by friends and relatives,” observed Senior Rabbi, Shai Finkelstein.  “It is amazing to see just how many people Rabbi Skopp touched throughout his life.”

Among the final plans announced this week was the selection of Pace Cooper as the master of ceremonies for the Tribute Dinner to be held on Sunday evening, October 25th.  Mr. Cooper, a vice president of the congregation, also served as chairman of the tribute dinner committee. “Rabbi Skopp holds a very special place in my heart, and in the hearts of my family,” Mr. Cooper said in discussing his role.  “He has been part of our lives for so many decades, and it was an honor to work on this tribute to him.”

Highlighting the dinner will be a special video presentation which was produced by Marcy Melman.  David Cooper, first Vice President of the congregation, served as the committee chairman for the video production.  “I think that everyone who knew Rabbi Skopp will enjoy this video.  We interviewed family, friends, students and congregants, and heard a lot of interesting stories and recollections,” said Mr. Cooper.

Another major highlight of the dinner will be a concert by Cantor Shimon Craimer, who is the guest artist for the weekend.  Cantor Craimer, who is currently the Chazan at the Riverdale Jewish Center in New York, has been called “the rising star of Jewish music” by the Chief Rabbi of the British Commonwealth, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks. 

Cantor Craimer will also conduct services along with Baron Hirsch’s own esteemed Cantor Ricky Kampf over Shabbat on October 24, when a new Torah will be dedicated in Rabbi Skopp’s memory.  “This will be a Shabbat service that no one will ever forget,” observed Pace Cooper, “We are fortunate to have two chazzanim whose beautiful voices will be enjoyed by all who attend.  And if that is not enough, we will also have the joyous opportunity to welcome a new Torah into the congregation.”

Everyone in the community is invited to attend and participate in the Shabbat services, which begin at 8:30AM in the Belz Sanctuary.  Regarding the tribute dinner on Sunday evening, the reservation deadline is passed, but you may call the synagogue office to inquire about available seats.  The office can be reach at 683-7484.

Baron Hirsch Educational Institute Announces New Class Focusing on the State of Israel

“Hereby declare the establishment of a Jewish State in Eretz-Israel to be known as the State of Israel” “It will ensure complete equality of social and political rights to all its inhabitants, irrespective of religion, race or sex; it will guarantee freedom of religion, conscience, language, education and culture.”

The Declaration of Independence of the State of Israel, 1948

The Baron Hirsch Educational Institute is proud to announce a new series of Shabbat afternoon classes taught by Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch and head of the Baron Hirsch Educational Institute.  The State of Israel became one of the most important components of our Jewish identity as individuals and as a nation.  Israel gives us a sense of pride and belonging.  While Israel fought and continues to fight for its survival and safety the social and the religious structure of our nation continues to be formed.  Israeli society is a mix of many people from different backgrounds, walks of life and religious and political affiliations.  This fabric of our Israeli society poses many challenges for our nation and it is the core of this new series of classes. 

We will discuss how the State of Israel is a paradox; within the state there is an intrinsic conflict between having a Jewish state and having a democracy.  The central idea of Israel as a Jewish state and the complications and flexibility of this definition, as made by David Ben-Gurion in the Israel Declaration of Independence, will be the central theme of our discussions. 

When one begins to delve deeper into the establishment of Israel we find with much uncertainty.  Each class will focus on several of the challenges that Israeli society faces as a result of its fractionations.  What does it mean to be a Jewish state?  Is it a state for all Jews or only for religious Jews?  Should the Jewish state be a theocracy, a democracy, or a compromise of both?  How do changes in the demography of Israel influence the status of the state?  What is the status quo in Israel and will it change?  What do Jews in Israel and Jews in the Diaspora have in common?  What is the validity of the Israeli government and its officials?  The entire State of Israel balances internal challenges; these social, religious and political issues lie in the heart in the establishment of the state as a Jewish and a democratic state. 

The new series will meet each Shabbat afternoon, with the first session taking place on October 17th at 5:00PM.  All following October classes will be held at 5:00PM, classes during the month of November will be held at 4:00PM.  The first session will be entitled “The Validity and the Status of the Israeli Government from a Torah Perspective.” The classes will be given in the Margolin Bet Midrash of Baron Hirsch, and are open to the entire community.  For more information about this class or any of the classes offered at Baron Hirsch contact the office at (901) 683-7485 or visit the synagogue website at http://www.baronhirsch.org. 

The Baron Hirsch Educational Institute strives to offer courses that will enrich every lifestyle and background. Classes in all areas of Torah learning such as our Women’s Parsha Class, Major Events in Jewish History, Lunch and Learn are only a few of the learning opportunities available at Baron Hirsch..  Over the last three years, hundreds of community members have benefited from the daily classes which are offered through the Educational institute. 

Rabbi Skopp Tribute Weekend to Feature Guest Cantor Shimon Craimer

Baron Hirsch Congregation announced that Cantor Shimon Craimer will be the guest artist for its upcoming tribute weekend in memory of Rabbi Cantor David W. Skopp, Z”L.

Cantor Craimer, who is currently the Chazan at the Riverdale Jewish Center in New York, has been called “the rising star of Jewish music” by the Chief Rabbi of the British Commonwealth, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks.  In making the announcement of his appearance, Pace Cooper, chairman of the tribute weekend, stated, “We are thrilled that Cantor Craimer has accepted our invitation to sing at this historic event.  His mastery of cantorial music is a perfect way to honor Rabbi Skopp, who is remembered by so many by his beautiful voice and by the services he led at Baron Hirsch for nearly 40 years.  In addition, Cantor Craimer is also one of the biggest names in Jewish music today, and his wide range of talent will inspire and entertain those of all ages and backgrounds.”

Cantor Craimer will perform on several occasions while in Memphis.  He will sing at the Shabbat morning services on October 24th at Baron Hirsch, at which time a Torah will be dedicated to the memory of Rabbi Skopp.  Cantor Craimer will join Cantor Ricky Kampf in the Torah dedication service, as well as in leading much of the Shabbat service.  He will also entertain with a concert during the tribute dinner on Sunday evening, October 25th. 

Cantor Shimon Craimer was born in London in 1978 into a family with musical
connections on both sides and was fascinated by music from a very young age. His musical talents were strongly encouraged and his exceptional singing voice was recognized by his teachers at Hasmonean High School and in the Ner Yisrael Community (London), where he became a regular leader of the Shabbat and Yom Tov services. After learning in Israel at Yeshivat Kerem B’Yavneh, Shimon studied at London’s Trinity College of Music. During his student years at the college, where he earned his degree, he sang in the college choirs, performing in many important concert venues.

Besides possessing a beautiful lyric tenor voice, Shimon is an accomplished pianist. He has appeared with several of London’s Jewish choral groups and as a member of the accompanying quartet for such popular cantorial performers as Avram Fried and
Mordechai Ben-David. Craimer has also conducted the Hendon Adath Yisroel Congregation choir and served as a lay cantor at several orthodox synagogues in Greater
London, and he has performed as soloist in cantorial concerts throughout Great Britain. He has also officiated as well as sung at concerts in Israel (with Avram Fried), the United States (with the Negina and Neshoma bands), Gibraltar, Switzerland, Denmark, Belgium, and the Irish Republic.

From 1999 until 2003 Craimer served as cantor of Edgware United Synagogue in London, succeeding such internationally well-known cantors as Joseph Malovany, and he officiates regularly at celebrations and special services in London’s Jewish community.  He then moved to the United States where he became the cantor of the Riverdale Jewish Center.

The entire community is invited to attend the Shabbat services to participate in the Torah dedication and to hear Cantor Craimer perform the services.  Tickets for the tribute dinner may be purchased through the Baron Hirsch office for $75 per ticket.  For more information, please contact Baron Hirsch at 683-7485.

Baron Hirsch Announces Memorial Tribute for Rabbi David Skopp

Baron Hirsch Congregation announced this week that it will host a special tribute weekend in memory of Rabbi Cantor David W. Skopp on October 24 – 25, 2009.  Rabbi Skopp, who passed away last November, served the congregation for some 57 years – from the time he came to Memphis in 1951 until shortly before his passing in 2008.

“Rabbi Skopp influenced generations of people throughout the Memphis Jewish community,” said Sidney Mendelson, president of the congregation.  “Throughout his career, he touched the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of individuals.  Even years into his retirement, he frequently officiated at the life cycle events of many families.”

The tribute weekend will be held in the week following Rabbi Skopp’s first yahrtzeit, and will provide a meaningful and elegant way for the Jewish community to remember its longest serving member of the clergy.  The tribute will begin with a special Shabbat morning service on October 24th.  “Rabbi Skopp is remembered not only for his beautiful voice, but for his warmth and for the relationships he built throughout his life,” observed Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of the congregation.  “It is most appropriate that the tribute will begin in the Belz Sanctuary on Shabbat morning – where he sang and formed relationships for many years.”

The weekend will continue with a gala dinner which will be held on Sunday evening, October 25 in the Marsi Moss Social Hall of Baron Hirsch.  The dinner program will include a video tribute as well as a concert from one of today’s cantorial stars.  Irvin Skopp will conduct a siyum, marking the conclusion of a year long Torah learning project which he undertook in his father’s memory.  Rabbi Shai Finkelstein will deliver a tribute to Rabbi Skopp.

All of the congregation’s past presidents are serving as honorary chairs of the tribute weekend.  In addition, all of the congregational rabbis of Memphis will serve on the tribute committee.  “The outpouring of love that we have seen from our community towards Rabbi Skopp has been truly inspiring and warm,” observed Pace Cooper, Vice President of the congregation and one of the chairs of the dinner.  “We hope that everyone who felt a bond with Rabbi Skopp will participate in this special weekend.”

As part of the tribute, Baron Hirsch is currently preparing a journal of memories which will be distributed to those attending the dinner.  The congregation hopes to create a list of all those who became close with Rabbi Skopp through their Bar Mitzvah training, wedding ceremony, or participation in the choir.  Those who had a special connection with Rabbi Skopp are asked to contact the Baron Hirsch office so that they can be included in the tribute project.  The committee asks that you contact the office at 683-7485 or by sending an email to april@baronhirsch.org.

There are numerous opportunities available to become a sponsor of the dinner or to submit your memories or pictures in the journal.  Please contact the office to participate. Reservations for the dinner will be taken beginning in early September.

Ways you can Help Camp Darom’s Chesed Day!

Baron Hirsch’s Camp Darom will be holding a Chesed Day this Monday, July 6th.  There are several ways you can help!

Book Drive
We will be helping with a book drive that is being run by the Memphis Jewish Federation. 

FOR THOSE WHO LIVE IN 38120 - Just call the office & ask that campers come to your home to pick up books. Please leave the books outside your front door on Monday, July 6.  Campers will come by between 1 & 5 in the afternoon. 

FOR THOSE WHO LIVE OUTSIDE 38120 - Bring your books to the shul anytime Sunday & Monday.

Camp Darom will work on this project on Monday, but it will continue throughout the community throughout the summer.  So anyone who is out of town, needs more time, cannot get out, etc can still participate at a later date.  Books only, no magazines, no textbooks. 

Swim-a-Thon
On Monday, Camp Darom will hold a Swim-a-Thon benefiting Camp Simcha, a camp for Jewish children suffering from life threatening diseases, such as cancer.  Please click on the link below to download the form in order to sponsor a specific camper, or to help our overall effort. 

Swim-a-Thon_Sponsor_Form.pdf

Camp Darom to Sponsor Benefit Concert Featuring Shlock Rock

Camp Darom announced this week that it will be sponsoring a concert featuring Shlock Rock as the culmination of its annual Chesed Day program.  The concert will be held in the Marsi Moss Social Hall of Baron Hirsch Congregation on Monday, July 6 starting at 6:00PM.  Tickets for the concert, which is open to the entire community, are just $5, and may be purchased at the door on the night of the concert.

While Camp Darom is based in Natchez Trace State Park, every year, the entire camp comes to Memphis for Chesed Day, a day dedicated to community service and performing good deeds for others.  This year’s Chesed Day will likewise feature many activities during the day where the campers will help others throughout the community.  “We decided that this year, we wanted to invite the entire Memphis community to join in on one of our projects, and thus the Shlock Rock benefit concert was born,” explained David Fleischhacker, business director for Camp Darom and executive director for the Baron Hirsch Congregation.

“Our focus will be to create a fun and energizing concert where we can raise funds for a fantastic cause,” added Rabbi Avichai Pepper, director of Camp Darom.  “All of the concert’s proceeds will be donated to Camp Koby, a project of the Koby Mandell Foundation.” Camp Koby provides children of families struck by terror with a place where others understand. Surrounded by their peers, specially trained counselors and professional therapists, children naturally share their stories and express their feelings.
Most important, kids love Camp Koby because it is fun with exciting programs specially tailored for each age group. Children feel free to have an incredible time.

Camp Koby consists of a youth camp for ages 9-13 and a teen camp ages 14-17. Follow up programs consist of 2-4 day reunions during the year and an on-going Big Sister /Big Brother program. Bringing the children together during the year gives them the comfort and support of an emotional network that nurtures them. Many parents say that their children look forward to the camp all year. The fun and support the kids receive give them the strength to return to life with increased vigor and emotional stability. Most important, they know they are not alone.

Camp Koby is named for Koby Mandell, who at 13 was killed by terrorists, along with his friend Yosef Ishran, on May 8, 2001, in a cave in the rocky countryside that surrounds his family home in Tekoa, Israel.

Shlock Rock is a Jewish rock and roll band formed by Lenny Solomon in 1986.  Since then the band has released 27 tapes and CD’s covering all types of music from parody to original and children’s. Their mission is to encourage Jewish pride, identity, awareness and the promoting of Jewish continuity through music. Shlock Rock has performed over 2,000 shows in the United States, Canada, Australia, South Africa, Israel and England, and they have performed in Memphis many times.

Lenny Solomon is the lead singer and founder of the band.  He also plays keyboards, accordion and harmonica. He was born in New York City and lived in Queens until he made aliya in 1996. He now lives in Bet Shemesh, a town between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, with his wife Gillian, and their four children. He comes from a long line of cantors going back many generations. Lenny’s first band was Kesher, a contemporary Jewish pop group formed by Lenny in 1983. Kesher (which in Hebrew means connection), released albums in March 1984, June 1985 and December 1987. Lenny wrote the music for 17 out of the 28 songs on the three albums. He performed with Kesher across the USA until 1988 when Shlock Rock became a full time career.

The band was born in the middle of the night. In December 1985, Lenny and the band rented the 39th Street Music studio in New York for two weeks from midnight to 8:00am. It was the only time slot they could afford in a studio which was home to some of the stars of the music scene. Top musicians joined the sessions and Learning is Good was released in January 1986.

It took Shlock Rock Learning is Good nine months to become the hottest selling album in the Catskills. After their initial success, Lenny wrote 11 more parodies and in February 1987 Purim Torah was released. At around the same time the Jewish Public School Youth Movement (JPSY) asked Lenny to arrange and produce an album. The result was Jewish Pride, a collection of original English and Hebrew songs which was released in March 1987.

Camp Darom was the first, and still the only, Summer sleep-away program under Orthodox auspices in the South.  Now in its 31st year, it is nationally known for its exciting activities, talented staff and educational programs. It offers a unique mix of camp life, fellowship and Jewish learning.  Camp Darom is a project of the Baron Hirsch Congregation, which has recognized the importance of Jewish camping as part of a child’s educational experience.  This year’s session is sold out, and is attracting children from over a dozen communities, including Atlanta, Nashville, Huntsville, New Orleans, Denver, Phoenix and Miami.

Camp Darom is held at the magnificent Natchez Trace Nature Reserve.  The bunks and all indoor facilities are modern and air-conditioned.  The campsite is surrounded by a 40,000 acre park, and offers plenty of venues for all sports, swimming, boating, hiking, nature, horseback riding, music, drama, arts and Torah study.  The camp also offers a strong Israel-oriented program, led by an experienced staff, many of who have lived or studied in Israel. 

For more information on the Shlock Rock benefit concert or Camp Darom, please contact the Baron Hirsch office at (901) 683-7485.

Baron Hirsch Announces Program for Holocaust Tribute

A unique and inspiring program has been planned for a community wide “Night of Recognition” honoring Memphis Holocaust survivors and the 25th anniversary of the Tennessee Commission on Holocaust Education.  The program, which will take place in the Belz Sanctuary of Baron Hirsch Congregation, will take place on Sunday, May 17 at 6:30 in the evening.

“We felt that this program was important for our community,” said Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch.  “It is important for us and our children to witness the victory of the survivors – how they faced the worst tribulations only to build new lives that inspired others.

All Memphis congregations are helping to promote the event, and the community Rabbis will be participating.  In addition, several congregations have signed on as sponsors of the evening, including Beth Sholom Synagogue, Temple Israel and Young Israel of Memphis. 

Highlighting the event will be the premiere of a new documentary called “Generation to Generation”.  Produced by Mark Wender, the film is about something that holocaust families dared not even dream about so many years ago…the future.

Experiencing the joy of generations moving forward is an absolute source of pride and accomplishment for any family but experiencing such an event is truly a miracle for the families of Benny Freidman and Esther Schachter because Benny and Esther are the grandchildren of Holocaust survivors.

When Sam and Freda Weinreich immigrated to the US and settled in Memphis the ashes of the Holocaust had barely settled in Europe.  Their homes and families in Poland were gone…all they had was each other, their faith and a new start within an Orthodox community. 

Years later they found themselves intertwined with another family who shared a similar past when their daughter, Marilyn married Milton Schachter, the son of Holocaust survivors.  The link continues with the marriage of Esther to Benny, a native of Israel.

The evening will also celebrate the work of the Tennessee Commission on Holocaust Education, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2009.  Allen Exelbierd, a member of the commission, will provide an introduction to the Commissions work.  During the program, the audience will hear from three past recipients of the Belz-Lipman Holocaust Educator Award – Monnie DeBerry, Duanne Eliff and Rochelle Kutliroff.  Given annually by the commission to three educators, the Belz-Lipman award recognizes outstanding educators who excel in the teaching of the Holocaust. 

Monnie DeBerry is an 8th grade literature teacher at Hardin County Middle School.  In addition to receiving the Belz-Lipman Holocaust Educator of the Year award, she has also received the 2009 Tennessee Education Association Distinguished Educator of the Year award for Hardin County and the 2009 State of Tennessee Distinguished Educator of the Year, She is a Tennessee Holocaust Commission Teacher Fellow and is also 2008-09 United States Holocaust memorial Museum Teacher Fellow.

Duane R. Eliff, a teacher in Hardin County Schools, received the Belz-Lipman Holocaust Teacher of the Year award in 2003.  He has taught for eleven years, and has been involved in Holocaust studies for twelve years, since he was a student teacher.  He has created and implemented a nine week unit on Holocaust in eighth grade Literature, and all 130 of his students learn from this curriculum.  Mr. Eliff takes a group of students to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. each year, and is currently a United States Holocaust Museum Teacher Fellow for 2008-2009.

Rochelle Kutliroff has been teaching since 1967, and is currently the general studies principal for grades 7 – 12 at the Margolin Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva of the South.  Having begun teaching about the Holocaust in the late 1980’s, she received the Belz Lipman award in 2004.  She has taught on every level from elementary through high school, and has run numerous programs and used Holocaust literature to write plays, specifically from Hasidic Tales of the Holocaust, Gertrude Samuel’s Motele, and The Upstairs Room.  Mrs. Kutliroff has taught and tested pilot programs for Facing History and Ourselves, and has attended seminars on Holocaust education in many cities across the country.  Her high school students have interviewed survivors and written papers based on oral histories. 

During the program, a special presentation will be made to each of the survivors, and all of the Memphis congregational rabbis will participate.  Second and third generation children will sing at both the beginning and end of the program, and a light reception will follow.

Chairpersons of the event include Allen Exelbierd, a board member of the commission; Dr. Irv Cherny, past president of Baron Hirsch; Mark Wender, past president of Baron Hirsch and producer of several widely acclaimed Holocaust films; and Emily Steinberg, who serves on the Board of Trustees of Baron Hirsch and is a past president of Hadassah.

There is no cost to attend this special evening, and the entire community is urged to attend. For more information, please contact the Baron Hirsch office at 683-7485.

Baron Hirsch Educational Institute Announces New Four-Week Series

Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch Congregation, will begin a new series titled “Is Morality Dependant on Jewish Law?” The classes will begin this Shabbat afternoon, May 2nd.  In describing the series, Rabbi Finkelstein stated, “In this series we will explore this philosophical and theological question that concerns every Jew.  Is the moral content of Judaism incorporated in Jewish Law and therefore finds its fullest realization within the Halachic framework, or can morality be independent of Halacha?”

Some of the questions to be discussed will include what was the ethical code of the world before the Torah was given?  What will a Jew do when there is conflict between Halacha and worldly ethics?  Is the Halacha recognized “behind the line of the law” and what does that mean? 

The new series will meet each Shabbat afternoon, with the first session taking place on Saturday, May 2nd at 6:30PM.  The sessions will be given in the Margolin Bet Midrash of Baron Hirsch, and is open to the entire community.  For more information about this class or any of the classes offered at Baron Hirsch contact the office at (901) 683-7485 or visit the synagogue website at http://www.baronhirsch.org. 

The Baron Hirsch Educational Institute strives to offer courses that will fit every lifestyle and background.  Even for those who cannot commit to a full length class, a number of brief learning opportunities are also available such as the weekly ‘Call Torah Class’ which is taught over the phone.  Over the last two years, hundreds of community members have benefited from the daily classes which were offered through the Educational institute. 

Baron Hirsch to Honor Survivors and Tennessee Commission On Holocaust Education

Baron Hirsch Congregation announced this week that it will host a community tribute to Memphis Holocaust survivors and the 25th anniversary of the Tennessee Commission on Holocaust Education.  In making the announcement, Congregation President Sidney Mendelson stated, “We are honored to host this important evening of recognition, and hope that everyone – from children to adults – will join us for this special evening at 6:30PM on Sunday, May 17.”

Highlighting the event will be the premiere of a new documentary called “Generation to Generation”.  Produced by Mark Wender, the film is about something that holocaust families dared not even dream about so many years ago…the future.

Experiencing the joy of generations moving forward is an absolute source of pride and accomplishment for any family but experiencing such an event is truly a miracle for the families of Benny Freidman and Esther Schachter because Benny and Esther are the grandchildren of Holocaust survivors.

When Sam and Freda Weinreich immigrated to the US and settled in Memphis the ashes of the Holocaust had barely settled in Europe.  Their homes and families in Poland were gone…all they had was each other, their faith and a new start within an Orthodox community. 

Years later they found themselves intertwined with another family who shared a similar past when their daughter, Marilyn married Milton Schachter, the son of Holocaust survivors.  The link continues with the marriage of Esther to Benny, a native of Israel.

“This film and our program will celebrate the victory of our heroic survivors over the Nazis who sought their destruction,” observed Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch.  “Through the determination of our survivors, we have seen new generations emerge and prove to the world that one can triumph over the worst evil.”

All of the Holocaust survivors who live in Memphis will be recognized at the program.  A special gift will be presented to each of them through the participation of all of the community Rabbis. 

The evening will also bring honor to the Tennessee Commission on Holocaust Education, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2009.  The Tennessee Holocaust Commission was created in 1984 by an act of the State Legislature. As its first formal act, The Commission created a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. It stands on the grounds of the State Capitol. Ever since, the Commission has sponsored annual Days of Remembrance in locations statewide including an observance on the Capitol grounds.

New legislation in May 1996 recreated the Commission as the Tennessee Commission on Holocaust Education. The name change recognized the primary role of the Commission as education--at all levels and for all citizens.  The Commission provides a variety of educational services and opportunities. It sponsors conferences for students, secondary school teachers, university faculties and the general public in addition to other special Holocaust programming.

During the program, the audience will hear from several past recipients of the Belz-Lipman Holocaust Educator Award. Given annually by the commission to three educators, the Belz-Lipman award recognizes outstanding educators who excel in the teaching of the Holocaust.  Past recipients of the award have gone on to attend international conferences, been appointed as teacher fellows to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and served as educational liaisons for the THC.

The program will also enjoy the participation of the 2nd and 3rd generation choir, and will be followed by a light reception.

Chairpersons of the event include Allen Exelbierd, a board member of the commission; Dr. Irv Cherny, past president of Baron Hirsch; Mark Wender, past president of Baron Hirsch and producer of several widely acclaimed Holocaust films; and Emily Steinberg, who serves on the Board of Trustees of Baron Hirsch and is a past president of Hadassah.

While there is no cost to attend the program, the congregation is seeking sponsorships to help offset the costs of the event.  In addition, any proceeds will help support the congregation’s Shoah and Tekuma program, which teaches teens the history of the holocaust and the founding of the State of Israel, and leads annual missions to either Israel or Washington.

For more information on the program, or to sign up to be a sponsor, please contact the Baron Hirsch office at 683-7485.

Sidney Mendelson Re-Elected President of Baron Hirsch

Baron Hirsch Congregation held its annual general membership meeting and elections on January 25, 2009.  The meeting, which was held in the Fogelman Foyer of the congregation, began with an espresso bar and reception.

Presiding over the meeting was Sidney Mendelson, who was completing his first year of service as president of the Baron Hirsch, and being re-elected to a second one year term.  Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of the congregation, presented the major annual awards.

Congregation members Elaine Miner and Josh Kahane received the Louis Turestsky Memorial Chesed Award.  Of Mrs. Miner, Rabbi Finkelstein said, �Elaine is always willing to help with her contagious smile and energy.  I am especially moved when I see the smiles on the faces of the elderly members of our community who come to our Kol Rena So-Shuls luncheon, which Elaine heads.  I know how much effort Elaine puts into these events and how much goodness she brings to this world.� Elaine serves on many committees within the congregation.  In addition to chairing the Kol Rena So-Shuls, is an active member of the Chesed committee, and is a past president of the Baron Hirsch Ladies Auxiliary and a past member of the congregation�s Board of Trustees.

In presenting the award to Josh Kahane, Rabbi Finkelstein stated, �Josh helps in nearly every facet of the Memphis Jewish community.  But his special efforts are directed at bringing new families to our community.  By doing this Josh is helping the entire community to ensure a strong future and continuity.� Josh was instrumental in founding Memphis Area Jewish Young Couples (MAJYC), a social group for young families in the Memphis area.

Hilda & Walter Fleischhacker were the recipients of the Sam Abraham Memorial Award as the 2008 Members of the Year.  �Rarely does a week go by that I do not see Walter and Hilda volunteering in some capacity in the shul.  For them Baron Hirsch is like their second home and they create a very positive and stimulating atmosphere.  Their devotion to Baron Hirsch is admirable.� stated Rabbi Shai Finkelstein of the Fleischhackers.  Following Rabbi Finkelstein�s remarks, the award was presented to the Fleischhackers by Sidney Abraham, son of the late Sam Abraham for whom the award is named.

In his remarks on the state of the congregation, Mr. Mendelson reported on the growing involvement in many of the congregation�s classes and events.  He looked forward to continuing to provide the very best in services to the members of the congregation and the community.  Mendelson also thanked his executive committee, the board of trustees, and particularly thanked Gary Makowsky, who completed his term as secretary, and Jay Daneman, who completed his term on the Board of Trustees.

Morris Goldstein, representing Goldstein & Associates P.C., gave the financial report to the membership.  Robert Cohen, a member of the congregation�s nominating committee, presented the slate of officers and trustees for the approval of the membership.  Sidney Mendelson was re-elected president of the congregation. 

Others elected to positions as officers were: David Cooper - 1st Vice President/Gabbai Rishon; Josh Kahane - 2nd Vice President; Pace Cooper � Vice president; Marty Belz - Vice President; Harold Wormser - Treasurer; Irvin Skopp - Secretary; Elliot Wender - Gabbai Shaynee; Louis Safier � Assistant Gabbai, Eric Schubert � Assistant Gabbai and Gerald Ballin � Warden. 

Elected to the Board of Trustees for two-year terms were: Josh Baer, Larissa Baer, Marvin Ballin, Mark Hayden, Gary Makowsky, David Mendelson, Diane Mendelson, Judy Moss, Rachel Siegel and Brad Somer.  Elected to the Board of Trustees for a one-year term was Neil Loskovitz.

Baron Hirsch to Screen New Documentary on Anti-Semitism

Baron Hirsch Congregation has announced that in advance of Selichot, it will hold a viewing of a new documentary �The Monster Among Us� on Saturday, September 20 at 10:15PM.  The documentary, by filmmakers Allen Mondell and Cynthia Salzman Mondell, focuses on the resurgence of anti-Semitism in Europe.

The synopsis of the movie is as follows: Sixty years after the Holocaust, a new brand of anti-Semitism has reared its ugly head again in Europe. It has the same purpose, but a different face.  It is directly connected to radical Muslim beliefs and actions that have spread from the Middle East to Europe.  Anti-Semitism has surfaced on university campuses, in the media, on the streets, at political demonstrations, on the internet and in seemingly innocent social situations.

Jews from all walks of life in six different European countries tell of being attacked in their neighborhoods, of cemeteries desecrated, of synagogues burned, of being ostracized at work. Young and old describe their fears and their plans for the future.  Many wonder if they should uproot their families, leave their homes and businesses to seek safer havens in either Israel or the United States.
The viewer has to ask, �If it were the l930�s and I was hearing stories of what was happening in Germany, what I would do?� British activist Daniel Frohwein warns, �Not all Muslims are bad, but a lot of them have been lied to, and a lot of what they�re being subjected to is going to leave a legacy of disaster and bloodshed that the world really doesn�t want to face up to.�

Filmmakers Allen Mondell and Cynthia Salzman Mondell explain the inspiration for the film.  Cynthia�s brother-in-law is French, and while he has been living in the United States for 30 years, his parents, siblings and cousins live in Paris.

The Mondell�s had been hearing reports of vandalism at Jewish cemeteries and synagogues and physical attacks on Jews in France. When this was mentioned to the couple�s brother-in-law, he began to tell them that, in addition to the anti-Semitic acts, his own family was considering leaving the country for Israel or the United States.

The couple wondered how this could be happening just 60 years after the Holocaust - and it was taking place in many other European countries. A trip to Berlin in April of 2004 - to a conference on anti-Semitism in Europe today, hosted by the German government - was the beginning of a journey that took them to six different countries, and 170 hours of interviews with both Jews and non-Jews, expressing their personal concerns and feelings about this situation.

Following the showing of the film, Selichot services will be held at midnight in the Belz Sanctuary, and will be led by Cantor Ricky Kampf, accompanied by the Baron Hirsch Choir under the direction of Dr. Stanley Friedman.

Selichot are special prayers for forgiveness, which are said during the High Holiday period.  They are begun on the Saturday night before Rosh Hashanah, and said on a daily basis through Yom Kippur.  While on most days Selichot are generally said before the regular morning service, it is a widespread custom to recite the first selichot at midnight.
The viewing of the film is open to the entire community and there is no cost to attend.  For more information about Selichot evening, contact the Baron Hirsch office at (901) 683-7485. 

Baron Hirsch Dedicates Two Torahs

After many months of preparations and anticipation, the moment arrived.  On Sunday, August 17, more than 600 Baron Hirsch families and community members gathered at the home of Baron Hirsch Senior Rabbi Shai & Bilha Finkelstein under a beautiful sky and a temperature that was unusually mild for Memphis in the summer, to celebrate the completion of two totally refurbished Torah scrolls.

When the two Torahs were brought out of the home onto Shady Grove Road, the excitement of the moment was evident on the face of every adult and child.  The Torahs were carried by Mr. Ed Brucker and Dr. Danny Weiss, representing the two families who dedicated the Torahs.  Each Torah was carried under its own Chupah, or canopy, with the poles being held by many of the individuals who dedicating weekly portions or books within the Torah.  In the procession, children and adults carried Israeli flags as they escorted the Torahs through the streets.  The Chuppot, which were decorated in blue and white, were designed by Tracey Mendelson, who along with her husband, David and Craig and Cathy Weiss, served as chairpersons of the procession.

The Torahs were dressed in new mantles, which were custom designed and created by local artist, Judy Levin.  Judy has made original mantle designs for many other congregations, including Anshei Sphard Beth El Emeth, Temple Israel, and Young Israel of Memphis.  For the Baron Hirsch covers, Judy chose to depict the city of Jerusalem, both in connection to the event of the day, as well as to fit the ambience in the sanctuary under the Henig windows which depict scenes of the return to Zion and Jerusalem.  The beautiful artwork on a stunning red background made a lasting impression on all who saw them. 

As the assembly made its way from Shady Grove and up Winter Oak Lane, they were led by a group of talented musicians including Allen Rippe, Rabbi Aaron Rubinstein and Stanley Friedman. 

Under the shadow of the Baron Hirsch building the group broke out in dance, reminiscent of the dancing that King David did before the Ark of the Covenant as he brought it to the holy city of Jerusalem.  The Torahs were led into the Foyer of the congregation, where once again the excitement of the moment led everyone to dance and show respect for the Torah.  The many community leaders, Torah project donors and congregation members who were present joined in the celebration before the new Torahs.

The Torahs were then brought into the Belz Sanctuary, where an event of equal magnificence took place exactly 20 years earlier when the new sanctuary and facilities were dedicated.  Marc Hanover, immediate past president of the congregation, welcomed the crowd and announced that the final letter would now be written in each Torah.  Rabbi Zerach Greenfield, a renowned sofer (scribe) and a member of the prestigious Machon Ot Institute in Israel, wrote the final letters.

One Torah, which was designated by the congregation to be used at Baron Hirsch, was dedicated in memory of Dr. Henry and Dorothy Dan Weiss by Danny and Saralyn Weiss.  Danny and Saralyn came forward to stand with the sofer as he wrote the final letter.  The second Torah, which was designated by the congregation to be given to the Israel Defense Forces, was dedicated in memory of Alan Phillip Brucker by the Brucker family.  Standing with the Sofer as he wrote the final letter were Alan�s parents and wife, Isadore & Mae Brucker and Ruth Brucker.

Rabbi Shai Finkelstein then recited a prayer for the welfare of the Brucker and Weiss families who dedicated the Torahs.  The Baron Hirsch Choir, under the direction of Dr. Stanley Friedman, then sang Shehecheyanu � the traditional blessing which thanks Hashem for allowing us to reach an important milestone.

It was then time to formally place the new Torahs in the Ark.  Many of the existing Torah scrolls were brought out of the Ark to greet the new Torahs.  Led by Cantor Ricky Kampf, the congregation sang as Torahs were carried by Bernard Lipsey, Gary Makowsky, Fred Miner and Marty Belz.  These Torahs joined the new Torahs in a procession which led them around the entire sanctuary, so that all of the men, women and children could have the opportunity to greet and kiss the new scrolls.

When it came time for the final procession towards the ark, families who dedicated the 10 books within the two Torahs were called forward to participate.  Representatives of each family stood in two lines in the center of the sanctuary.  As the choir sang in the middle, the Torahs were passed from hand to hand to show the passing of the Torah from generation to generation.

Donating the five books in the Baron Hirsch Torah were Dolly Angel, her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren in memory of Milton Angel (Sefer Bereshit); Paul & Diane Mendelson, Larry & Terri Mendelson and Sidney & Andrea Mendelson in memory of Bennie & Frances Mendelson (Sefer Shemot); Marc and Jan Hanover, in honor of their parents Avron and Ann Slutsky and J. Ronald and Adele Hanover (Sefer Vayikra); David Carney and family in memory of Betty Hanover Carney (Sefer Vayikra);
Dr. Larry & Diane Wruble, Dr. Seth & Lisa Kaufman, Dr. Gary & Dena Wruble and Dr. Steve & Simone Wruble (Sefer Bamidbar); and Jack & Marilyn Belz in honor of their children, grandchildren & great grandchildren (Sefer Devarim).

Donating the five books in the IDF Torah were Harold & Judy Wormser in memory of Adelaine Thomas (Sefer Bereshit); Marlin & Evelyn Graber and Roy & Tova Graber (Sefer Shemot); Ben & Larisa Baer (Sefer Vayikra); Tommy & Dolores Jagendorf in memory of Hans & Greta Jagendorf (Sefer Bamidbar); and Bernice Cooper, Pace & Aileen Cooper, Dr. Don Emerson & Laurie Cooper and David & Tova Cooper in memory of Irby Cooper.

Honored with taking the Torahs up the steps and placing them in the Ark were Herschel Rosenberg, Irvin Skopp and Dr. Michael Levinson.  Before being placed in the ark, the Baron Hirsch Torah was decorated with its new silver.  Dr. Ian Murray placed the beautiful new breastplate on the Torah, which he dedicated in memory of his father, Murray N. Murray.  Following that, Stanley Wender placed the new crown on the Torah.  The crown, which was dedicated by Razelle and Stanley Wender, was given in memory of Ben & Rose Loskove Margolin, Ellis & Bessie Alperin Wender, Shirley Margolin Parker and Janice Wender Adlestein.

With all of the Torah scrolls now in the Ark, the congregation sang the traditional Etz Chaim He, as well as Im Eshkahech Yerushalayim � the famous quote from Psalms which speaks of remembering the city of Jerusalem and placing it above our greatest joy.

Ed Brucker, past president of the congregation, spoke on behalf of the Brucker family in presenting the Torah to the IDF.  Mr. Brucker spoke of his late brother, Alan, and compared Alan�s concern for the wellbeing of all others to the highest ideals of Torah.  Accepting the Torah on behalf of the Israel Defense Forces was Lt. Colonel Rabbi Yedidya Atlas.  Rabbi Atlas, who came to Memphis to accept the Torah, spoke about the uniqueness of a Jewish army, and praised the congregation for its desire to connect to their brethren even without knowing them directly.

After accepting the Torah, Rabbi Atlas was presented with a second gift.  All of the children who attending this summer�s Camp Darom program were called to the pulpit.  Andrew Tavin, who served as a counselor during this past season, explained the details of a fundraising project undertaken by the camp to help soldiers in the Israeli army.  During the summer, the campers wrote letters to community members explaining the need of Bet Knesset Field Kits � a small box that can be taken into the field that gives a unit all of its needs in setting up a small synagogue.  After writing the letters, the campers delivered materials to some 150 local families and asked for their support in this project.  The result was the collection of some $1,800, which allowed the camp to donate one complete field kit.  Following Andrew�s remarks, the campers presented Rabbi Atlas with a giant check for $1,800.

Dr. Danny Weiss then spoke on behalf of his family in presentation of the Torah to Baron Hirsch.  In his remarks, Danny spoke about his parents, their special qualities, and the generations of connections that the Weiss family has had with Baron Hirsch.  Sidney Mendelson, president of Baron Hirsch, gratefully accepted the Torah, and thanked both families for their dedication.

Rabbi Rafael Grossman, Senior Rabbi Emeritus of the congregation, then addressed the crowd.  In his remarks, Rabbi Grossman spoke about the greatness of the congregation and the community, and how they have achieved more than many other communities that are much greater in size.  He also spoke of the move from the congregation�s prior home on Vollintine.

In his closing remarks Senior Rabbi, Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, spoke about the Jewish way to perpetuate our future. Building structures and buildings are important but the most important thing is to build bridges between Jews and building Jewish hearts. �Our Shul has a magnificent sanctuary and what gives it life are the hearts of Jews that are part of our Shul and community,� said Rabbi Finkelstein.  He thanked the entire congregation for taking part in this unforgettable occasion and asked the entire congregation to recommit themselves to the values of Torah, Israel and building Jewish hearts.

Following the program, a gala buffet reception was held in the Marsi Moss Social Hall where everyone celebrated the conclusion of a very special day.

Over 300 families participated in dedications in one of the new Torahs, and every one will be recognized in a permanent display to be placed in the Fogelman Foyer. 

Baron Hirsch Announces Program for Torah Dedication & Anniversary Celebration

Baron Hirsch Congregation has announced details for their special Torah Dedication and Anniversary Celebration weekend to be held on August 16 � 17.  The congregation will host several honored guests, and the weekend will feature a special Shabbat Kiddush, lectures, and a Torah procession and dedication ceremony.

The highlight of the weekend will be the Torah Dedication Service, which will begin with a festive procession on Sunday, August 17 at 3:30PM.  The procession will begin at the home of Rabbi Shai and Bilha Finkelstein, 5671 Shady Grove Road.  The two Torah scrolls which will be dedicated will be led under two Chupot, or canopies, surrounded by instrumental music, singing and dancing. 

The Torahs, which are being given in memory of Alan Brucker and Dr. Henry and Dorothy Dan Weiss, will be carried by members of their families.  The procession will makes its way down Winter Oak Lane and into the main entrance of the congregation.  Participants will then enter the Belz Sanctuary for the dedication service.

Rabbi Shai Finkelstein, Senior Rabbi of Baron Hirsch, will officiate at the service, accompanied by Cantor Ricky Kampf.  The Baron Hirsch Men�s Choir and Boys Choir will also participate.  Special speakers at the event include Rabbi Rafael Grossman, Senior Rabbi Emeritus of the congregation, and Lt. Colonel Rabbi Yedidya Altas of the Israel Defense Forces.

The service will begin with the writing of the final letter in each Torah.  The writing will be done by Rabbi Zerach Greenfield, a noted Sofer and member of Machon Ot.  He will be accompanied in the writing by Ed Brucker and Danny Weiss, representing the families who were the major donors of the Torah scrolls.  The new Torahs will then be escorted to the Ark.

The Torah that is being dedicated in memory of Alan Brucker is being donated by the congregation to the Israel Defense Forces.  Ed Brucker will make the formal presentation to Rabbi Atlas.  The Torah that is being dedicated in memory of Henry & Dorothy Weiss will be used by the congregation, and will be presented by Danny Weiss and accepted by Sidney Mendelson, president of the congregation.

Rabbi Rafael Grossman will address the congregation concerning the 20th anniversary of the dedication of the current facilities. Rabbi Grossman served as Senior Rabbi during the congregation�s historic relocation from Vollintine in Midtown Memphis to the Yates location in East Memphis.  Rabbi Shai Finkelstein will speak on the meaning of synagogue and the secret of the future of the Jewish people and Baron Hirsch.

Following the dedication services, there will be a buffet reception in the Marsi Moss Social Hall.  Childcare will be provided from 4:00-5:15 p.m. 

In celebration of this historic event, several special events will also be held the preceding Shabbat, August 16.  A special congregational Kiddush will be held following morning services.  In the afternoon, Rabbi Atlas will deliver a special class beginning at 6:15PM.  Rabbi Greenfield will speak during Seudah Shilisheet .  Rabbi Greenfield has many years of experience in the area of Torah restoration and rescue, and will share his experiences regarding 54 Torah scrolls that were rescued successfully from Iraq with the help of the Mossad and other Israeli governmental agencies.

All of the events surrounding the dedication and anniversary celebration are free of charge and open to the entire community.  For more information, please contact the Baron Hirsch office at 683-7485.