ב״ה ROSH HASHANA 5784 – AUTUMN 2023 CONNECT CHABAD NORTH EAST LONDON & ESSEX Tishrei pull-outguide Everything you need to know ב״ה
1 T hese days, at the end of the outgoing year and on the eve of the new year, call for selfevaluation in respect of the year about to end, and—in the light of this selfappraisal—for making the necessary resolutions for the coming year. The period of time before and during Rosh Hashanah is an occasion demanding spiritual stock-taking in general, and an inner appreciation of the tremendous capacities that one possesses, as a human being—the crown of Creation—and as a Jew, to whom the Creator has given His Divine Law of Life (Torat Chaim). When Adam was created, the Creator explained the extent of his powers to him, and told him that his purpose in life would be to elevate the world around him. Our Sages teach us that the “world conquest” given to mankind as his task and mission in life, is to elevate all of nature, to the service of true humanity, illuminated by the Divine Image, by the soul which is veritably a part of G-d above, so that the whole of Creation will realise that G-d is our Maker. Needless to say, before a man sets out to conquer the world, he must first conquer himself, through the subjugation of the more coarse aspects in his own nature. This is attained through actions that accord with the directives of the Torah—the Law of Life—the practical guide in everyday living, so that the material world becomes permeated and illuminated with the light of the One G-d. If a person fulfils his task and utilises his inestimable divine powers, it positively affects the destiny of the entire world. Let us each consider that we have the capacity to conquer the physical by carrying out the instructions of the Creator of the World, which are contained in His Torah. Everyone must therefore ask of themselves how much they have accomplished in this direction, and to what extent they have yet to achieve, so that they can make the proper resolutions for the coming year. G-d, Who looks into each heart, on seeing the determination of these good resolutions, will send His blessing for their realisation in the fullest measure, in joy and gladness of heart, and affluence, materially and spiritually. A NEW YEAR MESSAGE REFLECTiON Based on the Rebbe's Teachings – courtesy of Chabad.org A NEW YEAR MESSAGE REFLECTiON
Chabad’s“Connect Magazine” gives us the opportunity to showcase for you, our friends and supporters, some of our highlights that have taken place since our last Pesach issue. Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is the ideal time to do an annual stocktake, reviewing Chabad’s services and activities, what works well, what needs a facelift. Perhaps circumstances have changed, migration, ages, world events affecting our economy and affordability. Chabad, like all of us in our own homes, have to do the same. In order to ensure that every pound raised is spent wisely and achieving the furthest “reach” that it can. However, at the same time, we are so conscious of the privilege we share, at the behest and with the blessings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Schneerson זי״ע to have served the wider communities of Essex now in our 5th decade. The Rebbe was never satisfied and always demanded more of us to do more and achieve more, never resting on our laurels. It’s the individual that counts, his / her positive deeds will change the world. So the “reach” is important as it produces numbers, but we cannot and must not forget the lone person not yet part of our Chabad family and the wider Jewish community. Our four Centres are all active. Our newest Family of Shluchim in Southend, set up their home last Chanukah. As a vibrant couple, they have engaged in this short time all sections of the community. Their family home, coupling as a Chabad House, is host to frequent visitors of all ages, whilst they have provided an array of activities to suit the needs. In the following pages please find a picture story of each of our Centres, your Tishrei “pull out” calendar and guide, as well as numerous adverts for daily, weekly, monthly and periodic events, to suit the changing and growing needs of our Communities across Essex. Having entered our fifth decade, we look forward to sharing with you our continued exciting development plan for Essex Jewry and beyond. Thank you for your friendship and support. We close by wishing you and yours a very Healthy, Happy & Sweet New Year. ROSH HASHANAH – 5784 / 2023 A NEW YEAR MESSAGE Rabbi Aryeh MBE & Devorah Sufrin – Co-Directors and Head Shluchim, Chabad Lubavitch North East London & Essex. Shluchim, Chabad Lubavitch North East London & Essex. A NEW YEAR MESSAGE Rabbi Aryeh MBE & Devorah Sufrin – Co-Directors and Head Shluchim, Chabad Lubavitch North East London & Essex. Our four Centres are all active. Our Doris Shpiro House, 397 Eastern Avenue, Ilford, IG2 6LR – 020 8554 1624 – chabadilford.co.uk
3 Here’s a round-up of recent events at Gants Hill since our Pesach Connect issue. Charidy Giving Day 2023 On Sunday & Monday, 25th & 26th June, the wider community came together for our annual Crowd Funding campaign for the third year in a row, entitled “DEVOTING, PROMOTING, SUPPORTING”. Over thirty-six hours 414 participants, all eager to ensure the day-today stability of Chabad’s services and activities across Essex, raised £108,103. In the current challenging financial climate, this was an amazing achievement, and a testament to the high regard that the wider community has of Chabad’s broad range of services, provided by, and through, our Gants Hill Centre (in this campaign), the “engine room” of Chabad across Essex. We are indebted to all our participants for their continued support, especially our dedicated “matchers” in this campaign, who enabled every pound raised to be doubled, greatly assisting us in our bid to hit the £100,000 mark. This campaign allowed us to see through the dicult summer months, when fundraising is at a ”low”, due to the holiday season. Please continue to support Chabad’s efforts by responding to our Appeal in this informative New Year mailing – THANK YOU. Chabad Events Team This year, our Chabad Events Team held our first function at Chabad since Covid. It was welcome back to our Annual Whisky Evening. Once again it was a sellout with our great supporters all coming out to sustain Chabad's fund raising, and to enjoy Katie's brilliant presentation and the great whiskies to taste. Once again the food supplied by Reich and served by our wonderful helpers was as usual tasty and plentiful. There was also a great selection of raffle prizes to be won. Rabbi Sufrin MBE gave a very warm speech and thanked the CET team for all their hard work. It was a very successful evening and raised a large amount to go towards the great works Chabad is doing in the community. NEWS AND EVENTS AT GANTS HILL CHABAD
4 Over 100 women attended the N.E. London and Essex 26th Annual JWC Evening (after a 3-year break due to Covid) held at Loughton Federation Synagogue. The guest speaker, Michal Oshman, thrilled her audience with her dynamic speech and question and answer session. Her messages resonated with the ladies, who identified with her core messages and personal experiences. Michal shared the struggles she has endured during her life, and how she found the answers in the Torah, and particularly in Chassidut. Her commitment to helping others on their life journeys resulted in her authoring a book, ‘What Would You Do If You Weren’t Afraid’, based on these insights. The evening was organised by Rebbetzen Devorah Sufrin, in conjunction with fellow Shluchos and local Rebbetzens: Rochel Abrams, Mushki Birnhack, Henny Brandman, Chaya Goodwin, Brocha Muller, Rivka Posen, Judy Singer and Blima Wollenberg. The evening was organised An Evening with Michal Oshman
5 I f you chose to drop by and visit our Chabad Centre in Gants Hill on a Thursday, it would be unrecognisable. Every Thursday, the main hall of our Centre is turned into a food distribution Centre to support the needy during the current “cost of living” crisis. A host of volunteers make this amazing project possible. 1. Sourcing and collecting the food, led by Graham Nygate & Russell Green 2. Volunteers to sort, redistribute & deliveries led by Lisa Starr 3. Managing the lists on the day by Stephanie Plawner 4. Cooking wholesome Shabbat meals & overall co-ordinator Mrs Devorah Sufrin. All the Kosher items such as chickens and other ingredients are purchased with additional funds raised. In this financial crisis, the supermarkets have changed their tactics. By reducing the price of their fruit and vegetables by the end of each day to assist those in need with cheaper items, our programme was left with a further challenge. The goods that we had enjoyed in the past, we were no longer getting, since they are now being sold by the supermarkets themselves. What are we doing in response, for our identified families, who are now dependant on our weekly boxes? Quick-thinker Russell devised a monthly fund-raising plan to encourage individuals and families to support this project by raising £20 pcm per donor. With these funds we can then purchase the goods that we are missing. We currently have 25 signed up to the project, and we aim to reach 200, so that we can continue this hugely valuable project with further generosity. In June, Russell once again organised a Spinathon with the generous support of the David Lloyd, Chigwell for hosting. Last year, the funds raised CHABAD AID FOOD DRiVE
6 200 We need another 175 supporters to help us reach our goal of 200. 25 enabled Chabad to revamp their commercial kitchen to meet the needs of this expanded project. This year’s Spinathon raised in excess of £20,000, which will enable us to replace our old non-ULEZ compliant transit van, which will be used to pick up the goods and spare our kind volunteers the wear and tear on their own vehicles. To summarise, in 2016 one weekly food collection was received from Tesco, enabling Chabad to provide warm soup for the homeless. Today, we have twenty-three collections from numerous different retailers on a weekly basis. Through the pandemic we became aware of more families struggling in our own communities to put food on their tables. At the time of printing this article, Chabad Gants Hill collects and redistributes some 34,000 KG of food, the equivalent of 82,145 meals, supporting our own community’s needs, as well as being the source to feeding and supporting hundreds of families and individuals each and every week across the wider multi faith community. With the growing demand, to ensure we never say no, we now need two things: 1. Volunteers to help in-house, and also delivery drivers to distribute the weekly food parcels. 2. An additional 175 to join our £20 a month fund to purchase necessary food items reaching our target of 200 members. To become a part of this worthwhile project please contact Chabad’s administrator, Jacquie on 020 8554 1624, or e-mail [email protected]. With hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
7 Chabad Buckhurst Hill Activity Round-up This year has been about “Bouncing back from Covid”! At Chabad Buckhurst Hill, we dedicated our year to strengthening and bringing back all in person activities. We were determined that the Community would get absolutely every opportunity to reengage this year with a balance of activities for all. Some of our highlights have included the Kids Cookery Clubs, some fantastic Cteen events, our Bat Mitzvah Club, Babyccino and our latest innovation the Kids Mini Shabbat with our goal to ensure Judaism is fun, relatable and that feelings of connection are cultivated from the very start. Our Ladies Nights have also proved extremely successful with the theme of food at the heart of what we do. The Challah Bake and Babka Bake were both sell out events with waiting lists, we also did a Chocolate Truffle making evening and a Cocktails & Succulents night. Our Monthly Lunch & Learn sessions provide great food, along with a safe platform for the community to learn, ask questions and process information in an engaging and relatable way. As always, Chanukah, Purim and Pesach were strong with colourful, entertaining and accessible celebrations that attracted significant crowds. The Bukhurst Hill Communal Seder was a big hit this year also with a sellout crowd participating. Our Shlichus girls from Israel, Cheli and Yonit made an impact supporting our volunteers and integrating into the community with energy and positivity. Camp Gan Izzy, handled by the Buckhurst Hill oce and team, is the focal point of the Summer, it has been very well attended this year, attracting children from across the area and
8 Counsellors from Montreal, Toronto, Manchester and Stamford Hill! The bread-&-butter of every community is you, our members, so alongside activitiesm come Weddings, Brits, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs took place across the Summer, as Rabbi & Rebbitzen Brandman did their parts helping to prepare the individuals involved for their special milestones.
9 Chabad Epping Activity Round-up
10 Chabad Southend Activity Round-up
11 fie Summer 2023 Experience at Camp Gan Israel under the directorship of Rabbi & Mrs Brandman of Chabad Buckhurst Hill
12 We begin Shabbat every Friday evening by lighting candles. We also light candles on the eve of a Festival (Yomtov). The candles should be lit at the time listed locally (usually eighteen minutes before sunset). When a Festival follows on from Shabbat, and on the eve of the second day of a two-day Festival, the candles are lit after nightfall. One must also be sure to light the candles from a pre-existing ame, such as a 24/48hr candle, which was lit before Shabbat or the start of the Festival. It is customary to give some coins to charity (Tzedakah) before lighting Shabbat or Festival candles. However, one may not handle money on Shabbat or a Festival, therefore one does not give to charity before lighting Festival candles on a Saturday night or the second day of Festival, nor when lighting candles for Shabbat following on from a Festival. A single girl (from about the age of three) lights one candle, and also recites the blessing(s). She lights before her mother, so that her mother can assist her if necessary. After lighting the candles, they place the match on a fireproof surface safely, and allow it to go out on its own. Then, all those lighting candles cover their eyes with their hands when reciting the blessing(s). LIGHTING SHABBAT AND FESTIVAL CANDLeS Local Times for London
13 2 1 3 ְ ּ הָ עוֹ לָ ם, אֲ שׁ ֶ ר קִ דְ ֿ שׁ ָ נו בְּ מִ צְ וׁתָ יו, ְ ּ אַ ת ּ ָ ה יְ ־יָ אֱ ־לֹהֵ ינו מֶ לֶ ך ּ בָּ רוך ּ וְ צִ וָ נו ּ לְ הַ דְ לִ יק נֵ ר שׁ ֶ ל שׁ ַ בָּ ת וְ שׁ ֶ ל יוֹ ם הַ זִ כָ רוֹ ן: Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, asher kida-shanu bemitz-votav ve-tzivanu le-hadlik ner shel Shabbat v’Shel Yom Hazikaron. Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the light of Shabbat and of the Day of Remembrance. ְ ּ הָ עוֹ לָ ם, אֲ שׁ ֶ ר קִ דְ ֿ שׁ ָ נו ּ בְּ מִ צְ וׁתָ יו, וְ צִ וָ נו ּ לְ הַ דְ לִ יק נֵ ר שׁ ֶ ל יוֹ ם הַ זִ כָ רוֹ ן: ְ ּ אַ ת ּ ָ ה יְ ־יָ אֱ ־לֹהֵ ינו מֶ לֶ ך ּ בָּ רוך Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, asher kida-shanu bemitz-votav ve-tzivanu le-hadlik ner shel Yom Hazikaron. Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the light of the Day of Remembrance. ְ ּ הָ עוֹ לָ ם, אֲ שׁ ֶ ר קִ דְ ֿ שׁ ָ נו בְּ מִ צְ וׁתָ יו, ְ ּ אַ ת ּ ָ ה יְ ־יָ אֱ ־לֹהֵ ינו מֶ לֶ ך ּ בָּ רוך ּ וְ צִ וָ נו לְ הַ דְ לִ יק נֵ ר שׁ ֶ ל שׁ ַ בָּ ת וְ שׁ ֶ ל יוֹ ם טוֹ ב: Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, asher kida-shanu bemitz-votav ve-tzivanu le-hadlik ner shel Shabbat v’Shel Yom Tov. Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the light of the Festival. ְ ּ הָ עוֹ לָ ם, אֲ שׁ ֶ ר קִ דְ ֿ שׁ ָ נו ּ בְּ מִ צְ וׁתָ יו, וְ צִ וָ נו לְ הַ דְ לִ יק נֵ ר שׁ ֶ ל יוֹ ם טוֹ ב: ְ ּ אַ ת ּ ָ ה יְ ־יָ אֱ ־לֹהֵ ינו מֶ לֶ ך ּ בָּ רוך Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, asher kida-shanu bemitz-votav ve-tzivanu le-hadlik ner shel Yom Tov. Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the light of the Festival. ְ ּ הָ עוֹ לָ ם, שׁ ֶ הֶ חֱ יָ נו ּ וְ קִ יְֿ מָ נו ּ וְ הִ גִ יעָ נו ּ לִ זְ מַ ן הַ זֶ ה: ְ ּ אַ ת ּ ָ ה יְ ־יָ אֱ ־לֹהֵ ינו מֶ לֶ ך ּ בָּ רוך Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, she-heh-cheh-yanu v-kee-y-manu v-hi-gee-anu lizman ha-zeh. Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has kept us alive, sustained us, and let us reach this time. ְ ּ הָ עוֹ לָ ם, אֲ שׁ ֶ ר קִ דְ ֿ שׁ ָ נו ּ בְּ מִ צְ וׁתָ יו, וְ צִ וָ נו לְ הַ דְ לִ יק נֵ ר שׁ ֶ ל שׁ ַ בָּ ת: 4 ְ ּ אַ ת ּ ָ ה יְ ־יָ אֱ ־לֹהֵ ינו מֶ לֶ ך ּ בָּ רוך Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, asher kida-shanu bemitz-votav ve-tzivanu le-hadlik ner shel Shabbat. Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the light of Shabbat. 5 6 7 ְ ּ הָ עוֹ לָ ם, אֲ שׁ ֶ ר קִ דְ ֿ שׁ ָ נו ְ ּ אַ ת ּ ָ ה יְ ־יָ אֱ ־לֹהֵ ינו מֶ לֶ ך ּ בָּ רוך ּ בְּ מִ צְ וׁתָ יו, וְ צִ וָ נו ּ לְ הַ דְ לִ יק נֵ ר שׁ ֶ ל יוֹ ם הַ כ ּ ִ פֻ רִ ים: Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, asher kida-shanu bemitz-votav ve-tzivanu le-hadlik ner shel Yom Ha’kippurim. Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the light of Yom Kippur.
14 Date Occasion Observance Blessing Friday, 15th September Erev Rosh Hashanah Light at 6:58pm 1 & 2 Saturday, 16th September Rosh Hashanah Day 1 Light after 8:03pm 3 & 2 Sunday, 17th September Rosh Hashanah Day 2 Yomtov ends 8:01pm Friday, 22nd September Erev Shabbat Shuvah Light at 6:42pm 4 Saturday, 23rd September Shabbat Shuvah Shabbat ends 7:47pm Sunday, 24th September Erev Yom Kippur Light at 6:37pm 5 & 2 * Monday, 25th September Yom Kippur (Yizkor) Yomtov ends 7:42pm Friday, 29th September Erev Sukkos Light at 6:25pm 6 & 2 Saturday, 30th September Sukkos Day 1 Light after 7:30pm 7 & 2 Sunday, 1st October Sukkos Day 2 Yomtov ends 7:28pm Friday, 6th October Hoshanah Rabbah Light at 6:10pm 6 & 2 Saturday, 7th October Shemini Atzeres (Yizkor) Light after 7:15pm 7 & 2 Sunday, 8th October Simchas Torah Yomtov ends 7:12pm Friday, 13th October Erev Shabbat Bereishis Light at 5:53pm 4 Saturday, 14th October Shabbat Bereishis Shabbat ends :59pm In Cherished Memory… Would you like to perpetuate the memory of a loved one by dedicating a plaque on the Memorial Board? The plaque will be illuminated on the day of the Yahrtzeit and a memorial prayer recited in Shul to mark the Yahrtzeit. For information on how to dedicate a plaque, contact Rabbi Sufrin on 020 8554 2164.
15 THE JEWISH NEW YEAR ROSH HASHaNAH Tishrei 5784 – September 2023 ffie Head Rosh Hashanah means “Head of the Year”. It marks the beginning of the Jewish year and the day that G-d created Adam and Eve. This festival highlights the special relationship G-d has with humanity and in particular, with the Jewish nation. On Rosh Hashanah, we recognise G-d as the supreme King of the Universe, and we proclaim His dominion over all Creation. On this day, G-d judges the entire world for the coming year. We pray to G-d for a sweet and happy year, and we bless our relatives and friends that G-d should grant them a year of happiness and life. The prayers on Rosh Hashanah mention the merits of our ancestors, such as Abraham’s willingness to offer his son Isaac to G-d, and Isaac’s readiness to make this ultimate sacrifice, as G-d had commanded. But G-d then told Abraham to offer a ram instead of Isaac: this is the origin of the ram’s horn, the Shofar. The prayers on Rosh Hashanah emphasise G-d’s Kingship, His power of Remembrance of our merits, and the significance of the Shofar. ffie Shofar The central feature of Rosh Hashanah is blowing the Shofar, the ram’s horn. Its sound is simple and plaintive, yet majestic and powerful. It is a cry from the heart, like a child calling for its parent; simultaneously, it declares G-d to be King of the Universe, like the trumpets blown at a coronation. The sound of the Shofar arouses the soul’s essence. The Shofar also evokes key events in Jewish history, both past and future: the Binding of Isaac, the Giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai, the miraculous fall of the walls of Jericho, and the coming of the Messiah. In total, we shall blow one hundred sounds from the Shofar in a special pattern of notes, which has been passed down through the ages. When Rosh Hashanah begins on Shabbat, as is the case this year, we only blow the Shofar on the second day of the Festival, Sunday, 17th September. ffie Eflect of Rosh Hashanah The Sages tell us that we are written in ‘The Book of Life’ on Rosh Hashanah. On Yom Kippur, this is ‘sealed’, so we have a good, healthy and happy year ahead of us.
Festive Meals 16 Chassidic teachings add that, on Rosh Hashanah, the intensity of our prayers and the sounding of the Shofar, calling to G-d, elicit a ow of new spiritual lifeforce into the Universe, bringing a surge of energy to everything that exists. This ow of energy and blessing will be ratified on the Sukkos festival. is full of seeds, hinting at each person’s abundance of virtuous deeds. Some people eat the head of a fish (suggesting the aspiration to be a ‘head’), and a sweet carrot dish, because the Yiddish word for ‘carrots’ is meren, which also means ‘to increase’. The Talmud mentions many other food customs for Rosh Hashanah, including eating dates and beetroot. On the second night of Rosh Hashanah, we eat a “new fruit”, specifically a seasonal fruit that we have not tasted since its season began. This links with saying the blessing Shehechiyanu when lighting candles and in Kiddush, and adds to the sense of renewal. Tashlich On Sunday 17th September, which this year is the second day of Rosh Hashanah, before sunset, we go to a river, lake or pond, where there are fish. We recite the Tashlich Prayer, symbolically casting away our sins, and ask G-d to judge us with mercy on this holy day. Someone who cannot recite Tashlich on Rosh Hashanah may do so until the last day of Sukkos (Hoshana Rabbah), this year on Friday, 6th October. Each night and day of Rosh Hashanah, we eat a festive meal. On each night, we start the meal by symbolically asking G-d for a year of sweetness and renewal, by dipping the Challah bread into honey, instead of salt as usual. On the first night of Rosh Hashanah, we also eat a slice of apple dipped in honey and ask G-d to bless us with a good and sweet year. Other food customs for the first night include eating pomegranate, because it
17 THE TEN DAYS OF REPENTANCE FINDING OUR WAY HOME AGAIN ffie Fast of Gedaliah Monday, 18th September 2023 – 3rd Tishrei The day after Rosh Hashanah is a Fast, on which we recall the assassination of Gedaliah. Gedaliah was the Governor of Judea during the Babylonian conquest and the destruction of the First Temple. His death meant the end of ocial Jewish leadership in the Land of Israel, until the Jews returned from exile seventy years later. ffie Days of Penitence The days leading to Yom Kippur have a special quality and we recite extra prayers. One is Avinu Malkeinu, “our Father, our King”. G-d is both a loving Father and an exalted King. People try to give extra charity, because Tzedakah is a source of merit. Shabbat Shuvah Saturday, 23rd September – 8th Tishrei The Shabbat between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is called “Shabbat Shuvah”, the Shabbat of Return. The Haftorah reading begins with the words “Return, Israel, to the L-rd your G-d”. (Hosea 14:2) People try to focus on the meaning of the prayers, and on being kind to one another. ffie Yom Kippur Festival Monday, 25th September – 10th Tishrei Yom Kippur is the holiest day of the year. We are closest to G-d, and to our soul’s essence, on this day. Yom Kippur means “Day of Atonement”. This means Divine forgiveness, wiping away all transgressions. The Torah says, “For on this day He will forgive you, cleansing you from all your sins; you will be purified before G-d”. This means that by coming close to G-d, we are inwardly purified. The Yom Kippur Fast begins at sundown on Sunday and ends after nightfall on Monday. For nearly 26 hours, we are in a heightened state of consciousness, in which we abstain from food and drink, and do not wear leather footwear.
18 We wash only minimally, and we refrain from marital relations. If possible, we spend much of the day at the synagogue, experiencing the special atmosphere. If we cannot be in the synagogue, we try to pray at home. A festival prayer book (Machzor) for Yom Kippur should be obtained before the festival. Yom Kippur Eve Sunday, 24th September – 9th Tishrei Festive Meals The day before Yom Kippur has a festive quality. The Sages tell us it is a Mitzvah to eat and drink. We eat two meals: one at midday and one just before Yom Kippur starts. One dips the Challah bread in honey. There is a widespread custom to bless one’s children before the onset of the Fast. We light candles, as before Shabbat (seepg. 12). Prior to this, many people light a Yahrzeit candle to burn at home for the full duration of the fast, in memory of one’s departed relatives. We use this candle to kindle the Havdalah candle after the Fast. Kol Nidrei Just after the Fast begins, we introduce the Evening Service, by reciting Kol Nidrei three times in a slow and solemn melody. Kol Nidrei (meaning “All Vows”) is our request to G-d to annul all religious vows that we might have made unwittingly, so we have a clean slate for the coming year. During the Evening Service, we recite the Viduy, confessing our sins to G-d and asking for His forgiveness. Yom Kippur Day Monday, 25th September – 10th Tishrei Prayer On Yom Kippur, we are likened to angels. Some have the custom to wear white clothing while praying, expressing purity. Wearing white also reminds us of our mortality and urges us to repent. Throughout the High Holy Day season, the Ark in the synagogue is adorned with a white curtain. There are lengthy prayer Services throughout Yom Kippur, including striking poems and narratives, such as the account of the Ten Martyrs, great rabbis who were put to death by the Romans,
Prayer is not a service of the lips… …it is the worship of the heart. 19 which forms part of the Additional Service (Musaf ). We recite the Viduy (Confession) at each of the five prayer Services during Yom Kippur. During the Additional Service (Musaf ), the Priests (Cohanim) bless the congregation. Yizkor Memorial Prayer We say Yizkor, which means “Remember”, between the Torah Reading and the Additional Service. In this prayer, we ask G-d to remember our departed loved ones. The Sages say that the souls of the departed are present during Yizkor. This is an opportunity to deepen our relationship with the departed, because our virtuous deeds in this world can help our departed loved ones in Heaven. Hence, many people resolve to give charity on their behalf. Minchah In the Afternoon Service, the Torah Reading concerns avoiding forbidden relationships, such as adultery. Then, we read the Book of Jonah. Jonah was a Prophet who tried to run away from his mission. But one cannot run away from G-d. When he resumed his task and delivered his prophecy to the people of ancient Nineveh saved the city, the people headed Jonah’s warning message and repented.
20 In the middle of the final Kaddish prayer, at the close of the Neilah Service, the Shofar is sounded triumphantly, and we proclaim, “Next Year in Jerusalem”. The Synagogue Service finishes with the Evening Prayer. At home, one says Havdalah, using the burning Yahrzeit candle as the source of the ame, and then breaks the Fast with a joyful, festive meal. It is customary for one to prepare something relating to the Sukkah for the upcoming festival of Sukkos. Sukkos is a seven-day festival, soon after Yom Kippur. It commemorates G-d’s protection of our ancestors after our exodus from Egypt, during our journey through the wilderness. Sukkos also cements the Divine blessings for the coming year, which were ‘written’ on Rosh Hashanah and ‘sealed’ on Yom Kippur. During Sukkos, these blessings percolate down into our daily lives. Sukkos is followed by the final festival, Shemini Atzeres and Simchas Torah, when the greatest blessings of all are brougt into our lives through joy. Neilah Yom Kippur ends with the Neilah Service, which is the climax of all the Yom Kippur prayers. Neilah means ‘closing’: the Gates of Heaven, which were open to prayer during Yom Kippur, are now closing and the blessings of health, happiness and good fortune are being sealed. Chassidic teachings suggest that although the Gates of Heaven are indeed closing, we are on the inside, locked in with G-d. From Rosh Hashanah onwards, the prayers have spoken of being ‘written’ for a good year. At Neilah, the prayers speak of being ‘sealed’ for a good year. At the conclusion of the Neilah Service, the whole congregation cries out together, “Shema Yisrael”, expressing the Oneness of G-d, “Baruch Shem” three times, and then the verse “The L-rd is G-d” seven times.
21 In Memory... THE YOM KIPPUR YIZKoR SERViCE (Monday) 25th September – 12:30pm THE YOM KIPPUR YIZKoR SERViCE (Monday) 25th September – 12:30pm Yizkor, a special memorial prayer for the departed, is recited in the synagogue four times a year, following the Torah reading: on the last day of Pesach, on the second day of Shavuos, on Shemini Atzeres and on Yom Kippur. Yizkor, in Hebrew, means “Remember”. It is not only the first word of the prayer, it also represents its overall theme. In this prayer, we implore G-d to remember the souls of our relatives and friends that have passed on. When we recite Yizkor, we renew and strengthen the connection between us and our loved one, bringing merit to the departed souls, elevating them in their celestial homes. The main component of Yizkor is our private pledge to give charity following the holiday in honour of the deceased. By giving charity, we are performing a positive physical deed in this world, something that the departed can no longer do. Any donation that you would like to give to Chabad will be gratefully accepted, and will be used to help support our day to day activities and programmes. Yizkor brings everyone together as one family, and adds dignity and merit to the souls of our loved ones. Chabad of N.E. London & Essex wishes you 'Long Life'.
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S THE BLESSING WHEN EATING A MEAL IN THE SUKKAH 23 THE FESTIVAL OF SUKKoS 30TH SEPTEMBER - 6TH OCTOBER ְ ּ הָ עוֹ לָ ם, אֲ שׁ ֶ ר קִ דְ ֿ שׁ ָ נו ּ בְּ מִ צְ וׁתָ יו, וְ צִ וָ נו ּ לֵ ישׁ ֵ ב בַּ סֻ כָ ה: ְ ּ אַ ת ּ ָ ה יְ ־יָ אֱ ־לֹהֵ ינו מֶ לֶ ך ּ בָּ רוך Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, asher kida-shanu bemitz-votav ve-tzivanu ley-sheyv ba’Sukkah. Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and has commanded us to dwell in the Sukkah. ffie Sukkah Sukkah, plural Sukkos, means a hut. The Torah tells us to live in temporary outdoor shelters during this festival, to remember how G-d cared for us during our journey through the wilderness. The Sages tell us that the Sukkah represents the protective Clouds of Glory that surrounded the Jewish people. The main aspect of the Sukkah is the roof, which is made of evergreen leaves, simple branches or bamboo. The leaves do not have to cover every inch of space, but there should be more shade than light. We call this roof covering S’chach, סכך,which has the Gematria (numerical value) 100, like the 100 blasts of the Shofar. The Shofar on Rosh Hashanah draws blessings from G-d, which then radiate to us in the Sukkah. The Sukkah hut surrounds us on all sides, representing our faith in G-d’s all-encompassing protection and care. One tries to eat all meals in the Sukkah, and to spend time there with family and friends. There is a spiritual atmosphere of great joy inside the Sukkah. When starting to eat a meal (of bread) in the Sukkah, one recites the Hamotzie blessing for the bread, and then a special blessing is said in honour of the Sukkah.
24 ffie Four Kinds –“Arbah Minim” Each day of Sukkos, except Shabbat, one performs the Mitzvah of Arbah Minim. This means taking Four Kinds of plant: one Lulav, three Hadassim, two Aravot and an Etrog. We bind the first three and hold them upright in the right hand. The left hand holds the Etrog, pointing upwards. We recite a blessing and then, holding all four together, gently shake the bundle three times in each direction, including up and down. This draws life-force and blessings to us from G-d, from every direction. Stand facing East. Move or shake the Four Kinds to the right (south), left (north), ahead (east), above, below, behind (west). The Lulav is a palm branch from a date palm tree. The date has a sweet taste but no fragrance. The Midrash suggests that taste represents Torah study, because Torah enters one’s being. Fragrance represents performing Mitzvot. The Lulav therefore symbolises the academic Torah scholar: someone with broad knowledge but with less practical dedication to performing Mitzvot, other than the basic minimum. The Hadassim are myrtle branches, which have a pleasant fragrance but no taste. They represent the religiously active person: someone who does many Mitzvot but does not invest as much energy into Torah study. The Aravot are willow branches, having neither taste nor fragrance. They symbolise the simple person who is neither dedicated to performing Mitzvot, nor to studying Torah. The Etrog, a citron, has both taste and fragrance. It symbolises the person who both studies Torah and invests significant effort into performing each Mitzvah. We hold all these diverse types together for the Mitzvah of the Four Kinds. This symbolises both unity and diversity, because we need all four distinct species, representing diverse types of people, to complete the set.
25 1 BLESSING WHEN SHAKING THE LULAV ְ ּ הָ עוֹ לָ ם, אֲ שׁ ֶ ר קִ דְ ֿ שׁ ָ נו ּ בְּ מִ צְ וׁתָ יו, וְ צִ וָ נו ּ עַ ל נְ טִ ילַ ת לולָ ב: ְ ּ אַ ת ּ ָ ה יְ ־יָ אֱ ־לֹהֵ ינו מֶ לֶ ך ּ בָּ רוך Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, asher kida-shanu bemitz-votav ve-tzivanu al n’tilat lulav. Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and has commanded us to take the Lulav. EXTRA BLESSING WHEN SHAKING THE LULAV FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS YEAR ְ ּ הָ עוֹ לָ ם, שׁ ֶ הֶ חֱ יָ נו ּ וְ קִ יְֿ מָ נו ּ וְ הִ גִ יעָ נו ּ לִ זְ מַ ן הַ זֶ ה: ְ ּ אַ ת ּ ָ ה יְ ־יָ אֱ ־לֹהֵ ינו מֶ לֶ ך ּ בָּ רוך Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, she-heh-cheh-yanu v-kee-y-manu v-hi-gee-anu lizman ha-zeh. Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has kept us alive and sustained us, and let us reach this time. 2 One holds the Lulav bundle, which contains the Lulav, Hadassim and the Aravot, in the right (or one’s dominant) hand. The Lulav’s spine should face inwards, towards the one shaking the Lulav. Step 1 Step 3 Step 2 Step 4 One then picks up the Etrog in the left (or non-dominant) hand. On the first day of Sukkos (or on the first occasion that one shakes the Lulav this year), one recites the second blessing. How to Shake the Lulav Holding all four together, one gently shakes the bundle three times in each direction, including up and down. One stands facing east and recites the first blessing.
26 SHEMINI ATZERES & SIMCHAS TORAH 7TH - 8TH OCTOBER At the conclusion of Sukkos and Hoshana Rabbah, we celebrate the festival of Shemini Atzeres and Simchas Torah, which are two days in the Diaspora. In Israel, there is just one day. We rejoice in our renewed connection to G-d, after the succession of the earlier festivals. It is a day celebrating the unique role we have as G-d’s chosen nation: the nation that studies His wisdom, the holy Torah, and observes His 613 commandments, the Mitzvot. This time is noted for joy and dancing. Shemini Atzeres Saturday, 7th October On Shemini Atzeres, like any festival, there are Services in the Synagogue, and festive meals at home. Many people have the custom to eat in the Sukkah on Shemini Atzeres, but they do not say a blessing Hoshana Rabbah Friday, 6th October Each day of Sukkos (except Shabbat), during the Morning Service in the Synagogue, there is a procession of men holding their Lulav and Etrog set. They walk once round the Bimah, the ornate table on which we read the Torah. The Bimah represents the Altar in the Temple. As they walk, they chant a prayer to G-d called Hoshana, which means “Please save us”. On Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, G-d judges each individual; during Sukkos, G-d judges the world collectively concerning water, fruit, and crops. These are the main themes in the Hoshana prayers, day by day. The seventh day of Sukkos is called “Hoshana Rabbah”, the great Hoshana. The procession of men walks not just once, but seven times round the Bimah, chanting the Hoshana prayers. There is a concluding section which enthusiastically asks G-d to send the Messiah. A time-honoured custom is to take a bunch of five Aravot and beat them on the ground. This is seen as mystically transforming any possible harshness into sweetness for the coming year.
27 27 on the Sukkah. Many communities also dance with the Torah on the night of Shemini Atzeres just as on Simchas Torah. In Israel, where only one day is celebrated, this dancing with the Torah will take place in every community. Yizkor Memorial Service and the Prayer for Rain On Shemini Atzeres, during the morning Services, the Yizkor Memorial Service is recited, as on Yom Kippur and the last day of some other festivals. An extra prayer, which is said only on this day, is Tefilat Geshem, the Prayer for Rain. It asks G-d to bless the world with the life-giving rains of the winter season. From now until the first day of Passover (Pesach), we mention rain in the second blessing of the Amidah at each daily prayer. Simchas Torah Sunday, 8th October Simchas Torah, the ‘Joy of the Torah’, is the festival of rejoicing with the Torah. The Torah is a gift from G-d to each Jew. We dance with the Torah Scrolls, both in the evening and after the Morning Service. The dancing begins with a procession, called Hakafah, with all the Torah Scrolls round the Bimah. There are seven Hakafot in total. During the Synagogue Services, we read the last portion of the Torah to end our annual cycle of reading the Torah each Shabbat. However, we do not wait for the following Shabbat to restart the cycle: instead, we begin reading from the beginning again. This shows that we love the Torah and that we are eager to begin the new cycle. On Simchas Torah evening and the following day, we celebrate with heartfelt joy. There is a a joyful Kiddush in Shul. Shabbat Breishit Saturday, 14th October The first Shabbat after Simchas Torah is called “Shabbat Breishit”, because we begin our annual cycle of Torah reading with the portion of Breishit (“In the Beginning”) from the Book of Genesis. We have now completed a spiritual journey of the festivals; now, we begin a more practical journey through the coming year. There is a tradition that, in this aspect, we are like our Forefather Jacob, who undertook long travels. We have renewed our bond with G-d and ‘filled our spiritual suitcases’ with prayer, Mitzvot and joy. We can gradually ‘unpack’ these blessings throughout the weeks and months ahead, and continue to be inspired by everything we have achieved over the High Holy Days. Let us hope that this New Year will herald a transformation of humanity and history, with the coming of the Messiah, the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem, and the end of war, crime, disease and any kind of suffering. Let all the darkness be transformed to light!
28 Our Redbridge schools play an integral part to the vibrancy of our Jewish Community. Hence, Chabad have developed a real and active role in our local schools. Rabbi Sufrin MBE, holds the portfolio of the Rabbinic Governor at the Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School and heads the ethos committee. As such he is a regular visitor at the school, for special assemblies, Q & A’s in Years Five & Six, and Festival activities. Our local Chabad Shluchim and their Rebbetzens are regular visitors too, supporting the sterling efforts of Mrs Deborah Harris and Head Teacher Mrs Lisa West, ensuring a continued excitement for Jewish life in and around the school, curriculum. Tellin & Shema Club Together with Brian Mitchell and Tony Roth, Rabbi Sufrin MBE leads a weekly basis our most successful, exciting Tefillin & Shema club, a highlight in our and the boys week, followed by refreshments. Some fifty pre- and post-Bar Mitzvah boy’s attend. During this past academic year, Tefillin were laid some 1'000 times, an achievement to be truly proud of. Special thanks to Ms Melanie Shutz & Mrs Nathalie Spurling for their sterling efforts in supporting this programme. Rabbi Brandman visits Chlore Tikva and other local schools during the year. In addition his mobile Sukkah on wheels is an attraction that staff and pupils look forward to each year, bringing large smiles and an excitement towards our Jewish Festivals, for all to benefit and enjoy. ffie Light of Chanukah So important is our involvement that our Chanukah programme of lighting Menorahs around Essex includes a special ceremony held at Fulwell Cross roundabout to attract all the school children from our three local schools. This year it will be held on the first night of Chanukah Thursday 7thDecember at 3:45pm after school but with a difference. This event is open to children their parents, families and friends and all those wishing to attend our annual Barkingside lighting and all are welcome. Following the formal lightings outside the library, we are all invited to the new hall at WIJPS for a fun filled Chanukah party, provided by the PA of the school in partnership with Chabad. CHABAD’S SUPPORT IN LOCAL JEWiSH SCHOOLS children their parents, families and friends and all those wishing to attend our annual Barkingside lighting and all are welcome. lightings outside the library, we are all invited to the new hall at WIJPS for a fun filled Chanukah party, provided by the PA
29 Our Redbridge schools play an integral part to the vibrancy of our Jewish Community. Hence, Chabad have developed a real and active role in our local schools, with Rabbi Sufrin MBE, holding the portfolio of the Rabbinic Governor at the Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School, and heading the ethos committee. As such he is a regular visitor at the school, for special assemblies, Q-&-A’s in Years Five & Six, and Festival activities. Our local Chabad Shluchim and their Rebtzens are regular visitors too, supporting the sterling efforts of Mrs Deborah Harris and Head Teacher Mrs Lisa West, ensuring a continued excitement for Jewish life in and around the school, curriculum. Chabad is proud to receive very positive feedback from the schools it works with. In particular, Rabbi Sufrin was most gateful to have received the following letter from KS’ Head Teacher, Ms Hannele Reece: Dear Rabbi Sufrin, Many thanks for the support, guidance, wisdom and fun you have brought to KS. You are a true supporter of the school and its ethos and I have personally appreciated and learnt from your support over the past years. You are the sort of leader that gives me hope; you embody your beliefs and your ethos, and you always put the community first. I wish you, your family and all those you care about health and long life. All the best, Hannele. Chabad is privileged to work at the coal-face of Jewish education across the region and will continue to support the spiritual growth of our community’s most precious members: our children. Many thanks for the wisdom and fun you the past years. You are the sort of Does your child attend? Did you know that we have four opportunities for your child to join our Cheder & Bar/Bat Mitzvah Classes each week? Our Chabad Centres oer a safe, stimulating & friendly environment for all Jewish children, regardless of their level of observance, background or aliation. Call to register for one of our Cheder programmes now: Ilford: Mrs Devorah Sufrin 020 8554 1624 Buckhurst Hill: Mrs Henny Brandman 020 8279 2987 Epping Mrs Rivka Posen 07974 187 526 Southend Mrs Mushki Birnhack 07534 648 062 Does your child attend? Did you know that we have four opportunities for your child Classes each week? entres oer a safe, stimulating & friendly environment for all Jewish children, regardless of their level of observance, background all to register for one of our Cheder programmes now: Mrs Devorah Sufrin 020 8554 1624 Mrs Henny Brandman 020 8279 2987 osen 07974 187 526 Mrs Mushki Birnhack 07534 648 062
30 In addition to the events showcased in our adverts, enter these dates into your diary to ensure that you will be able to join us at one, or all, of these occasions. We'll publish more information about each event as we get closer to the date. October Sukkos Party (Gants Hill)................................................................ 5th October................. 7:30pm Simchas Torah Hakofos & Lunch .............................................8th October...............10:15am Friday Night Shabbat Dinner...................................................27th October November Friday Night Shabbat Dinner................................................... 17th November December Friday Night Shabbat Dinner.....................................................8th December Public Menorah Lighting at these locations: Barkingside...............................................................................................7th December............ 3:45pm Gants Hill (after Shabbat)..............................................................9th December............ 7:30pm Buckhurst Hill & Epping........................................................ 10th December...........6:30pm Loughton.......................................................................................11th December...........6:30pm Havering & Ongar .....................................................................12th December...........6:30pm Woodford.................................................................................................13th December............6:30pm Chigwell & Harlow............................................................................14th December............6:30pm January Friday Night Shabbat Dinner...................................................19th January February Friday Night Shabbat Dinner...................................................16th February Purim Megillah at Chabad .........................................................23rd March after Shabbat March Chabad House Purim Party ...................................................... 24th March April Chabad House Communal Seder....................................... 22nd April Chabad House Moshiach Seudah....................................... 30th April May Lag B’Omer............................................................................................ 26th May Dates for Your Diary
Dates of Yomtov Next Year Chanukah 8th – 15th December 2023 2024 Purim – 24th March Pesach 23rd – 30th April Shavuos 12th – 13th June Rosh Hashona 3rd – 4th October Yom Kippur – 12th October Succos 17th – 23rd October Simchas Torah 24th – 25th October
32 Dates for your Diary 27th October 17th November 8th December 19th January 16th February More details to follow. Chabad Gants Hill Invites You to Friday Night Shabbat Dinner
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34 Weekly Sidra Shiur “With Chassidic Insights” Every Tuesday evening at 8:15pm via Zoom, with Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin MBE No previous knowledge necessary – men & women welcome To receive your weekly Zoom link, contact [email protected] – a time to reffect on Torah teachings –
35 Talk & Tea For Solo Ladies An opportunity to socialise with likeminded women. For further details, contact Maureen Shapiro on 020 8551 9148 On a Tuesday from 10:30am – 11:30am (Small donation at your discretion) Tuesday 17th October 2023 Tuesday 14th November 2023 Tuesday 12th December 2023 Tuesday 16th January 2024 Tuesday, 20th February 2024 Tuesday 12th March 2024 Tuesday 9th April 2024 Tuesday 21st May 2024 Tuesday 18th June 2024 Tuesday 9th July 2024
36 To Savour & Support Save ffie Date: Monday, 23rd October 2023 Join the Chabad Events Team for Chabad N.E. London & Essex’ ever-popular Whisky Evening at our Gants Hill venue. To book tickets, email: [email protected] 2023 4th October 1st November 6th December 2024 10th January 7th February 6th March 3rd April (in the Succah) 8th May 5th June 3rd July Ladies Lunch & Learn wi Rebbezin Devah Sufrin at Chabad Gants Hill All at 12:30pm – £6 Donation
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38 Chanukah 2023 Thursday, 7th December Barkingside – 3:45 pm Saturday Night, 9th December Gants Hill – 7:30 pm Sunday, 10th December – Buckhurst Hill & Epping – 6:30 pm Monday, 11th December Loughton – 6:30 pm Tuesday, 12th December Ongar & Havering – 6:30 pm Wednesday, 13th December Woodford – 6:30 pm Thursday, 14th December Chigwell & Harlow – 6:30 pm Public Menorahs also stand at: • Tesco Charlie Browns, • Tesco Barkingside, • Sainsbury's Newbury Park, • Ilford Town Hall (plus numerous Car-Menorahs)
Connect is produced by Dove Press Ltd for Chabad Lubavitch Centres North East London & Essex. Original cover design by SkyFly Media. For more information, visit dovepresspublishing.com or email [email protected], and SkyFly Media at [email protected]. Copyright © 2023 — Dove Press Ltd. The copyright of articles written by named contributors remains with the original authors. Independently sourced images are credited to the original contributors. Torah Teachings & Prayers are sacred – please treat this publication with care DOVE PRESS