OrH Newsletter

Weekly Newsletter

November 28, 2017

Words of the Spirit
Shabbat Challenges and Opportunities
 
Shabbat, paired with the onset of winter, presents an interesting combination of opportunities and challenges for a progressive, living-in-two-civilizations community like ours. The pull to observe communally may weaken, whether your preference is to hunker down to stay in and cozy, or to take off to the hills and rinks at every opportunity.
 
A few weeks ago, a simple challenge created an awesome opportunity. Once a year, we need to relocate our Shabbat morning programs to another building, as our host community takes over the entire building for their annual Fall Fair. So we held our own “Shabbat Fall Fair” at the JCC, with a potpourri not of offerings for re-sale but of activities, bracketed by short and lively camp-style shirah/song for our tefilah/prayers.
 
The morning was wildly successful, as young and old jumped in to participate in sampling creative, intellectual, or contemplative activities, all led by members. The interest, enthusiasm, and numerous sparks of connection and discovery were sweet - and, I believe - sacred.
 
So throughout the winter of 2018/5778, we’ll be holding periodic “mini-fairs” – one winter/Exodus- themed, one just prior to Passover, and a third in the Spring. This is in keeping with the alternative services we’ve been offering over the past year and a half – shabbats for study, for contemplation, for yoga – but with at least two options for each Shabbat Fair.
 
There were so many “aha” moments at our Shabbat Fall Fair. These flashes of inspiration are what I love to nurture, and here at OrH we have so many talented, inspired, thoughtful and generous members who are eager to share their passions. This is indeed our “Torah,” our treasury of knowledge and lore. Check out our Shabbat Winter Fair, coming the first Shabbat in January, for an intellectual challenge, and a spiritual opportunity.
 
- Rabbi Liz

Work-Life Transitions
Whether you are considering, actively preparing for, or have recently made
a change in your work-life, join us for an informal discussion about all
that goes with this transition on Wednesday, November 29 (note new date). This is an opportunity to share experiences and resources and, if there is an interest, future activities may be planned. Please RSVP at info@orh.ca and we will send you the address and directions.

OrH as a Caring Community: An invitation to join a new Working Group
We at OrH have been doing our best to care for each other and have been successful in many ways. We are also aware that we may be able to do what we’re doing even better, and that there’s more that we could do. We’re launching a Caring Working Group to think about and act on this important Jewish value. Do you want to participate? Bring your ideas, enthusiasm and readiness to pitch in to our first meeting, Thursday, November 30, at 7 pm. Please call Jean at 613-314-2806 for more details and meeting location.

Seeking Hosts for December Shabbat-Around-the-Table
Our next Shabbat around the table will be on Friday, December 22. If you would like to host please get in touch with Jan at jjottawa@hotmail.com. We need to know the number of people you can accommodate and your email address, which will be published in the next newsletter.

Human Rights Shabbat and JED talk – December 8
Join us for a special Shabbat service in honour of International Human Rights Day, on Friday, December 8, 6:30-9:00. This special Human Rights Shabbat we celebrate the deep intersections between Judaism and human rights, joining a network of other communities throughout the U.S. and Canada to turn the Shabbat of International Human Rights Day into a time for learning and commitment to action​. Following the service and pot-luck meal an OrH member will discuss Tikkun Olam, the ancient concept that came into prominence in the 1960s in Jewish social justice circles and continues to be central to Jewish spiritual ethics. For more information visit the OrH event page here.

Share Your Special Interests or Expertise - Give a JED Talk!
Do you have a special interest, hobby, experience, or avocation, or a particular expertise that might be of interest to OrH members? Please consider giving a JED (Jewish Education and Dialogue) talk after one of our monthly Friday night services. In the past year members have shared experiences on wide range of topics, including the life and work of Polish artist and poet Israel Lejzerowicz, genetic testing and Bill S-201, green Jewish funerals, and organ donations. If you are interested please contact Heni at learning@orh.ca.

OrH Annual Fundraising Campaign
Or Haneshamah's annual fundraising campaign is now underway. While OrH is just one of many worthy causes to support, we encourage you to make OrH a high priority in your charitable giving this year. Your voluntary donations are important to cover costs above and beyond annual dues and fees, and are vital to sustain our programming and meet the needs of our members. Donating is easy, and a charitable tax receipt will be issued. Please consider giving generously to support your OrH community! For more information visit the OrH annual campaign page.

Yahrzeit Reminders
We have received a number of requests from members to receive emailed yahrzheit reminders. We hope to have the capability to provide this service in the future. In the meantime we wanted to bring to your attention a number of web services that will provide yarzheit reminders free of charge. We have compiled a list on the resources page of our website. While we do not endorse any of these services, we believe that any of those listed should meet the needs of members who are looking for email yahrzeit reminders.

Get Involved! Opportunities for Community Involvement
Are you looking to get involved with OrH activities? We are always in need of helping hands with event planning and other activities. All are welcome, including High Schoolers who are looking for community volunteer opportunities. Please contact info@orh.ca or visit the OrH home page (look for the Get Involved! banner). 

Upcoming Services and Events
 
Work-Life Transitions
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM, location TBA, please rsvp to info@orh.ca
An informal discussion about work-life transitions. Share experiences and resources and, discuss future activities. RSVP at info@orh.ca and we will send you the address and directions.
 
Caring Working Group Inaugural Meeting
Thursday, November 30, 2017
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Location TBA
Please contact Jean at 613-314-2806 for more details and location.
 
Shabbat Morning with Torah Service
Saturday, December 2, 2017
9:45 AM - 12:15 PM, Fellowship Hall, Unitarians
Shaharit service of morning blessings and songs, including Torah service, a participatory discussion of the day’s portion, followed by Kiddush/pot luck luncheon. 
 
Human Rights Shabbat and JED talk
Friday, December 8, 2017
6:30 PM - 9:00 PM, Room 5, lower level of Unitarians
A special Kabbalat Shabbat service in honour of International Human Rights Day, followed by a pot-luck meal and a JED talk on Tikkun Olam. For more information visit the OrH event page here. 
 
Mindfulness Meditation Group
Thursday, December 14, 2017
7:15 PM - 9:15 PM, Room 5, lower level of Unitarians
A community learning activity with the guidance of Rabbi Liz. This month’s session led by Joyce. Open to all who want to explore, learn, grow and share mindfulness experience with a Jewish perspective. Affiliation with a Jewish organization is not required. No RSVP required. Come to one, some or all of the sessions. No fee. More info at: www.orh.ca/jmm.html. 
 
Shirat Shabbat/Chanting Service
Saturday, December 16, 2017
9:45 AM - 12:15 PM, Fellowship Hall, Unitarians
 
Annual Hanukkah Celebration
Saturday, December 16, 2017
5:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Fellowship Hall, Unitarians

Reconstructionist News
 
Save the Date: Reconstructionist Convention 2018 takes place November 15-18, 2018 in Philadelphia. The planning committee is now designing a phenomenal program based on member input. Come together as a community to sing, pray, learn, eat and play. Strengthen networks and deepen connections. Mark 50 years of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College. Celebrate, learn, and create a Judaism that is Rooted and Relevant.
 
Reconstructionism Today
The latest issue of Reconstructionism Today can be found at: http://eepurl.com/c3bDXP.

In The Ottawa Community
* = New item this week
 
* Attention teens 13-17: YOUNG VOICES CAN!, formerly Peace Camp Canada, invites you to join Jewish, Muslim, Christian and other youth including new immigrants to participate in their school-year program starting on December 10th, 3.00-5.30, at Ashbury College, 362 Mariposa Avenue. This year the group will snow shoe, picnic and bonfire in Gatineau park; visit an art gallery and see art of diverse cultures, enjoy movies together, and kayak/canoe on the Ottawa River. Sessions are Dec 10, February 17, April 8, May 6, and June 17 (2018 dates are tentative). All sessions are free, transportation and food provided. Activities run by qualified facilitators. To participate or for more information email myrna@barwin.ca. Applications should be received by Friday, December 1, and will be treated on a first come basis. Include your name, age, school, address.
 
YOUNG VOICES CAN! evolved from Peace Camp Canada, moving beyond a summer camp experience to include a school year program for youth of all cultures from Ottawa schools, including regular events, where they learn to respect each other’s perspectives. Their focus is on reducing both Islamophobia and anti-Semitism, as well as preventing marginalized youth from becoming radicalized. Our vision is to foster understanding, patience, open communication and co-existence by teaching conflict resolution and leadership skills, and enabling youth to come together for an extended stay filled with dialogue, reflection, learning, team building, self-awareness – and, of course, fun! More info at https://youngvoicescan.com/.
 
Chanukah Music on The Bells of the Parliament Peace Tower. On Wednesday, December 14 from noon to 12:15, Dominion Carilloneur Dr. Andrea McCrady will play Chanukah music on the Peace Tower carillon. Come to Parliament Hill for a unique Chanukah musical experience. For info, call Evelyn Greenberg at 613-234-8934.
 
The Nazi Titanic. Join us as acclaimed author and speaker Robert Watson tells the lesser known story of a German luxury liner that during the Second World War was transformed from a barrack transport, to the star of a "Titanic" propaganda film, and finally bombed while housing thousands of prisoners in the final days before liberation. Unearthing forgotten documents, Watson's riveting account of this tragic story is becoming known as one of the last major tragedies of the Holocaust. His book on the topic, The Nazi Titanic, will be available for sale following the talk. Wednesday, November 29, 7 - 9 pm, Soloway JCC 21 Nadolny Sachs Pvt. Contact: Natalie Abenhaim at nabenhaim@jewishottawa.com or 613-798-4696 x 355. 
 
Musica Ebraica. As days get shorter, thoughts gradually turn to candles, latkes and dreidles.  And to put you in the mood, Musica Ebraica presents a Chanukah concert of songs light and darkness, blessings and gratitude under the baton of Rabbi Elizabeth Bolton, its new conductor. Join the choir on Sunday December 3rd at 3pm at Temple Israel for an afternoon of musical delights. Tickets ($20 for adults and $10 for students) are available at the door or by calling 613-224-7073 or emailing pmwershof@gmail.com or from choir members.
 
Community Volunteers Needed. Your community agencies are in need of specific volunteers. For a full list of current needs visit https://jewishottawa.com/volunteering. For further information please contact Natalie at nabenhaim@jewishottawa.com. 

Donations to OrH

Donations are a significant part of the funding for activities and rabbinic support in our community. You can direct your contribution to different areas of Or Haneshamah’s activity, including: general donations to fund programming, rabbinic leadership, donations in honor or in memory of a person or event, or dedication of ritual objects. We also welcome donations to the Gita (Tova) & Zvi Memorial Fund, the Rabbi's Discretionary Fund,  the Or Haneshamah Endowment Fund. Federal employees or retirees can also give to OrH through the ​​​​​​​Annual Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign. Information on all these programs and how to give can be found at this link, or by clicking on the "Donate" tab on the main menu of the OrH website.

Potluck Protocol
Our community’s long time practice is to welcome egg, dairy and fish on the potluck table. Please label your meal contributions with all ingredients to help people with food allergies or sensitivities; also advise kitchen staff whether dish is to be served hot or cold.

Rides to Services and Events
Will you need a ride to services and OrH events? Are you able to offer a ride to services OrH events? We encourage members to be generous with their offers of rides. Please contact  info@orh.ca  with your name and area of the city you are coming from.

Visiting or Studying in Toronto or Montreal?
If you or your children will be in Toronto or Montreal, they are very welcome at our sibling congregations. We have reciprocal memberships with both Darchei Noam (Toronto) and Dorshei Emet (Montreal). Likewise, we welcome their members to our services, programs, and High Holy Day services. For security reasons we ask to call ahead to make arrangements for the High Holy Days.

A Caring Community
Members are encouraged to contact the rabbi or any board member to let us know about your pastoral care needs, or the needs of another member, whether related to a new or an ongoing circumstance. These may include such situations as a pending hospitalization, a change in health, relationship, or employment status, other life transitions, or the death of a loved one. Through knowing what is happening in each other’s lives, we give each other, including our rabbi, the opportunity to perform acts of gemilut hasadim/loving kindness, the hallmark of a caring community.

We Are Listening
How do you feel things are going in our community? Do you have ideas about programs or events that we should pursue? What aspects of Or Haneshamah do you feel are working well, and what do you think can be improved?  In the interest of making OrH the best community that it can be, the board and rabbi invite you to submit comments and feedback at any time. Please send your thoughts to  feedback@orh.ca  or directly to any member of the board (email addresses below).

Board of Directors
President: Paula,  president@orh.ca
Treasurer: Jacob,  treasurer@orh.ca
Education: Heni,  learning@orh.ca
Communications: David M.,  communications@orh.ca
Secretary: David L.,  secretary@orh.ca
Membership: Janet,  membership@orh.ca
Member-at-Large: Jean,  member-at-large.jean@orh.ca
Member-at-Large: Jan,  member-at-large.jan@orh.ca
Past President: Mark,  past-president@orh.ca
 
Rabbi Elizabeth Bolton:  rabbi@orh.ca ​​​​​​​
Members are welcome to contact Rabbi Liz, or any member of the board, regarding pastoral needs.

Or Haneshamah
30 Cleary Ave., Ottawa, ON, K2A 4A1
613-239-4988
www.orh.ca
info@orh.ca

** Disclaimer Regarding Community Event Postings **

Or Haneshamah frequently receives requests to post notices of upcoming events in the community at-large.  These events run the range from cultural, educational, and in some cases explorations of topical political issues.  In the interest of providing information to our congregation about the diversity of interesting events in the Ottawa community we will post notices of these events in our regular newsletter.

We recognize also that from time to time we are requested to post notices of events which are highly controversial in nature and reflect a wide range of opinions among our congregation on particular issues.  We are, however, of the opinion that it is appropriate for us to post events taking place in the community which may challenge us, which may cause discomfort, and which may cause us to reflect on some of our beliefs.  Our openness to post notices for a wide range of community events, however, does not mean that we have abdicated our responsibility to show discernment and to distinguish between those events which demonstrate an open-minded and thoughtful approach to specific issues and those which do not appear to reflect such values.  So, we will make judgments about what notices we believe are appropriate to post and those which we believe will not contribute to a thoughtful and balanced exploration of ideas and issues.

Will we make mistakes along the way?  Probably.  But the possibility of errors of judgment does not mean that we can excuse ourselves from the responsibility to show judgment in posting notices about events in the community and we promise to do so with openness tempered by a sense of responsibility.

In agreeing to post any notice of an event in the community, Or Haneshamah does not endorse, support or promote any perspectives, positions or ideas expressed in the events which are posted in our newsletter.