This past week, I gathered together with 1000 people - virtually, of course, on a zoom call just like this one. One thousand people. One thousand Reform Jews logged on a Tuesday night for the launch of the Religious Action Center’s Every Voice, Every Vote campaign. The Religious Action Center, as you may know, is the Reform Movement’s voice in Washington, D.C. This civic engagement campaign focuses on combatting voter suppression and mobilizing voters everywhere to make our voices heard.
I was so moved to be among those 1000 people who logged on. In a time of distancing, even being together with 1000 people removed was powerful for me. I felt connected to people beyond my kitchen table. I was inspired that so many Reform Jews will be moved to take action on this crucial issue.
This week’s Torah portion is BaMidbar, the first portion in the book of Numbers. The English name of this fourth book of the Torah comes from the content of this first Torah portion - a census.
To get involved in this initiative, join our social action committee virtual meeting at 5pm on Wednesday, May 27. Email templeoffice@ansheamunim.org for log-on information.
Torah Across the Berkshires:
A Shavuot Experience
May 28th at 7:00 pm
Negotiations and Love Songs:
Paul Simon & The Bible
Thursdays, June 2, 9, 23 and 30
Online Class
with Rabbi Liz
SAVE THE DATE
TAA Members'
150th Annual Meeting
June 11, 2020
Jewish Food Festival - Virtual Event
A Virtual Festival About Jewish Food
The Jewish Food Festival is completely free! Over 10 days they will have a variety of events–workshops & conversations, happy hours, and Shabbat dinners, and so much more–which will take place over Zoom, Instagram, and Facebook. They will also be unveiling a library of unique Anytime Content that can be experienced during the festival.
Reserve Your Spot
Browse the schedule and sign up for any and all events
you’d like to explore. They’ll send you the link and instructions
on howto participate, thenget comfy and come join us!
Some events have limited space,so sign up to claim your spot.
We know that there may be members of our community who are impacted by coronavirus, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
If you are in need of support, please reach out to your Temple family, and our Rabbi and caring committee will support you and connect you with resources as best we can. Out of an abundance of caution for your health and safety, Rabbi Liz will not be making in-person pastoral visits to your home, the hospital, or nursing/assisted living facilities. However, she will most certainly be available by email and phone.
Additionally, if you are able and willing to help others during this time, please join our caring committee listserv by contacting Diane at templeoffice@ansheamunim.org.
From the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires
A “Sweet” Offer in Celebration of Shavuot! Complimentary Cheese Blintzes - Pick up on Thursday, May 28
Enjoy a taste of Shavuot! No reservations needed. Federation is offering one free container of 4 blintzes per household while supplies last! Available for pick up at the follow locations:
9 - 9:45am: Hevreh Parking lot, Gt. Barrington
11 - 11:45am: Federation Parking lot, Pittsfield
1:30 - 2:15pm: Congregation Beth Israel Parking lot, North Adams
Jewish Community Blood Drive Blood Donations Needed! Donations are by appointment only and can be made by calling (413) 447-2597, ext. 2 or camuso@bhs1.org. Berkshire Health Systems bloodmobile staff will be adhering to strict health protocols to ensure a smooth and safe process.
Wed, May 27 from 8:30 am - 3 pm at the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires, Pittsfield
Thurs, May 28 from 9 am - 2 pm at Hevreh, Great Barrington
Mon, June 1 from 9 am - 2:30 pm atCongregation Beth Israel, North Adams.
ONLINE DONATION INFORMATION
By supporting our Temple, you allow Temple Anshe Amunim to continue offering vital religious, educational, and social programs to our community.
You can now make a donation to Temple Anshe Amunim online by visiting the Donate section of our website and following the instructions there.
Please click here if you wish to donate:TAA Donation
OFFICE HOURS
Office Hours The TAA staff continues to work from home and are available by phone or by email, templeoffice@ansheamunim.org.We will be checking our voicemail messages regularly, and you can also reach Rabbi Liz directly by calling the synagogue and following the prompts on her voicemail message. Please do not hesitate to reach out.
Temple Anshe Amunim
26 Broad Street
Pittsfield, MA 01201
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