February 1st, 2012
WELCOME BACK, RABBI MO-rris!
·A FEW SCHEDULING NOTES… As Temple Micah welcomes Rabbi Adam Morris back from his January sabbatical, the temple’s religious school and adult Hebrew classes are still intended to resume at 9:00 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 5 at Blessed Sacrament Middle School, 1958 Elm St., Denver, weather permitting. However, due to current severe weather conditions, a Reggae Shabbat Service in honor of congregants affiliating since last fall has been canceled for this weekend and will be re-set, likely in March. All Micah congregants are encouraged and eager to greet the new bevy of temple members – including Tim and Nancy Weil, our first temple-joiners in 2012! Also due to the snowstorm Me’at Shabbat, the engaging Sabbath-themed program for toddlers and their families, has been canceled for this weekend, but will take place at 9:00 a.m. on first Saturdays of March, April and May at Temple Micah’s 2600 Leyden St. quarters. One more calendar note… a Temple Micah Board of Trustees Outreach Meeting will be held from 10:00-11:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 12 at 1958 Elm St., where religious school and adult Hebrew classes meet. Stay cozy, and stay in touch with Temple Micah for more updates!
·SAMPLE SERIOZ ON 17th FOR FEB. 17 SUPPER… Temple Micah’s next Shabbat Sampler Supper takes place at about 7:15 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17 at a fledgling Serioz Pizzeria and Italian eatery, 1336 E. 17th Ave., near the corner of Humboldt Street in Denver. This restaurant opened in mid-January in the space where a Pasquini’s sat before. Order your heart’s desire from the menu, pay your own tab and enjoy the get-together. Meant for Micah folks, friends, newcomers and prospective members, Shabbat Sampler Suppers grace varied locations on third Fridays monthly, right after 6:00 p.m. services at Temple Micah. Reserve supper seating for Serioz by Monday, Feb. 13 with Elaine Lee, 303-388-4239.
·LET MICAH SPEAKEASY BE YOUR LUCKY NIGHT… Temple Micah promises more fun and games than ever before at its ninth annual fundraising fling, the Micah Speakeasy, in the historic Denver Press Club, 1330 Glenarm Place downtown. Gamble for a great cause, learn how to play and place all your bets on Temple Micah from 7:00-9:00 p.m. Saturday, March 3, while savoring one another’s company in a swank Victorian-style setting. The venue is home to the oldest press club in the country, incorporated in 1877 (the year after Colorado became a state), known for poker games since the start and other amusements enticing a parade of personalities. The Micah Speakeasy will offer plentiful temptations: poker, blackjack, craps, darts, pool, ping pong, a cash bar and more. All players are welcome, from novices to those with ace skills! Price per person is $75⁄Party Pack including admission, refreshments and gambling chips — or $55⁄A La Carte for admission and refreshments. Prices will rise after Wednesday, Feb. 22 and at the door. Advance reservations with payment are extremely helpful and much appreciated ($60 is tax deductible for Party Pack, $40 tax deductible for A La Carte). RSVP and pay now for the Micah Speakeasy or via the temple website at http:⁄⁄www.micahdenver.org. Or mail or bring a check to: Temple Micah, 2600 Leyden St., Denver, CO 80207. Kudos to Micah Speakeasy organizers (you know who you are!) — and to the generous sponsors so far: Susan and Steve Waldman, Sharon and Jon Thorson, Alice and Scott Alban of Sloane’s Carpet Secret, Michael Clapman and Risa Tatarsky, Judith Cassel-Mamet and Sam Mamet. More participants and sponsors are needed: Pit Boss, $750; Dealer, $500 and Bouncer, $250. Add yourself, or your business or organization to the list of supporters! All proceeds benefit Temple Micah. You can bet with full assurance you’ll feel lucky to be a player, sponsor or both while carousing at the Micah Speakeasy. Costumes in the spirit of the Roaring 20’s are optional. Need more persuasion to join the party? Call Temple Micah, 303-388-4239.
FEBRUARY SCHEDULE… http:⁄⁄www.micahdenver.org or call 303-388-4239.
THOUGHTS FROM…
RABBI WARREN G. STONE (GUEST BLOGGER):
A TU B’SHVAT PRAYER FOR CREATION
Source of Creation and Life of the Universe, we gather together on Tu B’Shvat, as Jews of conscience, with a deep spiritual bond to your natural wonders, to affirm and preserve creation. We are grateful for creation in all its majesty: the ever-flowing waters, the azure blue skies, the complex life of Earth’s forests, the myriad of life forms–amoebae and falcon, black footed ferret and wild turkey, human being and soaring eagle. The life of all creatures and our own lives are One, profoundly dependent upon each other.
Keep reading… http:⁄⁄www.micahdenver.org⁄blog⁄?cat=3
MICHAEL CLAPMAN, SOCIAL ADVOCACY CHAIR AND BOARD MEMBER:
“DO JUSTLY” BY ADVOCATING FOR CHOSEN CAUSES
Reform Judaism and Temple Micah, in particular, have embraced the concept of tikkum olam – repairing the world. This call charges Jews to reach out to individuals in need, to be aware of the challenges that face the disenfranchised and under-represented members of our community. For many years Temple Micah has been responding to that call through the Social Action Committee, providing food for the hungry and many other worthy direct-action activities that provide assistance to low-income people.
Keep reading… http:⁄⁄www.micahdenver.org⁄blog⁄?cat=5
ELAINE LEE, MEMBERSHIP AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR:
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT– MICAH LIVES ITS MISSION AT KING MEALS
In celebration of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday last month, I represented Temple Micah at two meals. First was the Business Social Responsibility Awards Luncheon at the Marriott City Center Hotel downtown. I sat at a Volunteers of America table, at the behest of VOA Director of Community Affairs Jim White. When informed of his winning an award for feeding hungry people every King Holiday since the holiday’s inception, he had tried to skip the attention – but failing so, filled most of his group’s sponsored tables with VOA colleagues and extras like me who’ve wound up repeatedly in VOA helping roles.
Keep reading… http:⁄⁄www.micahdenver.org⁄blog⁄?cat=4
SHERI LOCKHART, SOCIAL ACTION CHAIR AND BOARD MEMBER:
MITZVAH MADNESS AND HOME-BUILDING GETTING OOMPH!
With religious school about to resume, we will continue our Micah Mitzvah Madness competition. To refresh your memory, we have our two teams and will be keeping a count of items donated by both our temple and our religious school players. Last round ended in a tie! For Round 2, we are hoping that the school will play a bigger role in the project. We are asking that the teachers do more to encourage their students to do tikkun olam – repairing the world. We would like each student to decorate his or her own Mitzvah Bag in class, take it home and return it each week with items to be donated. This bag should serve as a visual reminder to help those in need.
Keep reading… http:⁄⁄www.micahdenver.org⁄blog⁄?cat=9
Do Justly. Love Mercy. Walk Humbly.
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February 1st, 2012
by Sheri Lockhart, Social Action Chair and Board Member
With religious school about to resume, we will continue our Micah Mitzvah Madness competition. To refresh your memory, we have our two teams and will be keeping a count of items donated by both our temple and our religious school players. Last round ended in a tie! For Round 2, we are hoping that the school will play a bigger role in the project. We are asking that the teachers do more to encourage their students to do tikkun olam – repairing the world. We would like each student to decorate his or her own Mitzvah Bag in class, take it home and return it each week with items to be donated. This bag should serve as a visual reminder to help those in need.
We continue to collect nonperishable food, hygiene items as well as cold weather accessories such as gloves, mittens, hats and scarves. Also, new socks are always needed.
Habitat Interfaith Alliance Distinguishes Itself… In the past you may have received e-mails from Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver — not to be confused with Habitat Interfaith Alliance of which Temple Micah is a member and for which we raise money to build houses each year. If you want to support HIA, donations can be sent to Habitat of Metro Denver (3245 Eliot St., Denver, CO 80211), but it is important that you write Habitat Interfaith Alliance on the memo line. You also can send a check for HIA to Julie Lucas at Temple Emanuel, 51 Grape St., Denver, CO 80220. Write HIA on the memo line for those checks as well. Doing this will help us raise money for our next build. Donate your time by helping to build a house — and consider buying books at the Books for Bricks sale. New or used books in good condition will be sold from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6-Sunday, Feb. 12 (and till 9:00 p.m. Wednesday that week) at First Universalist Church, 4101 E. Hampden Ave., Denver. Turn books into bricks toward building a home by donating books before the sale or volunteering to help with the sale. Your support in any or all of these ways will help to create a home for a needy, deserving family. To donate books or to help on a sales shift, contact Mary Ann Strassner or Sarah Rovner through Temple Micah, 303-388-4239, or sign up at www.hiadenver.org. Thanks!
Social Action Thank-Yous…
The Temple Micah Family:
On behalf of the board, staff and volunteers of Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. (GPHC), we would like to extend a sincere thank you for your generous Food donation to GPHC. We serve130 to 200 families monthly, Monday and Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Your support of the Greater Park Hill Food Bank is truly appreciated by all.
Kind regards,
Heather Leitch, Executive Director, GPHC
***
Dear Friends:
Jewish Family Service of Colorado would like to thank you for your contribution of 431 pounds of food in 2011 for the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Food Pantry. Your generosity ensures that families facing hunger and crisis in our community receive supplemental food to help them through difficult times.
We would like to thank you again for your generous support!
Yana Vishnitsky, President and CEO
Shelly Hines, Family Safety Net Department Manager
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February 1st, 2012
by Elaine Lee, Membership and Communications Coordinator
In celebration of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday last month, I represented Temple Micah at two meals. First was the Business Social Responsibility Awards Luncheon at the Marriott City Center Hotel downtown. I sat at a Volunteers of America table, at the behest of VOA Director of Community Affairs Jim White. When informed of his winning an award for feeding hungry people every King Holiday since the holiday’s inception, he had tried to skip the attention – but failing so, filled most of his group’s sponsored tables with VOA colleagues and extras like me who’ve wound up repeatedly in VOA helping roles.
Several days later a few blocks away was the Dinner for Those Who Hunger, where I showed up again, as on many King Holidays, in the VOA’s Sunset Park dining hall and awaited my turn to provide a prayer before this meal.
VOA is a national non-profit purveyor of vital social services to people in need. The Colorado branch is perhaps best-known for providing Meals on Wheels in settings across the state – and for its hugely attended Thanksgiving and King Holiday dinners, free and welcoming to all who want to partake. VOA long ago pegged Temple Micah as a small synagogue with a big heart – and so has sought out and relied on Temple Micah in the past two decades to send a symbolically visible, vocal messenger to its Dinner for Those Who Hunger. That’s me.
As such mouthpiece, I am privileged to convey that the Jewish community cares about hungry people and the Rev. King and notions that he stood for… civil and human rights, equal opportunity, freedom, justice, dignity, compassion, basic necessities for everyone. This litany is what I stand for and pray for each year at the Dinner for Those Who Hunger. So, too, that’s what my congregation stands for and prays for, each time temple-goers and religious school participants give stuff to various agencies funneling goods to people in need. When I stand before VOA’s roomful of hungry yet patient and respectful people, pausing to listen to my words interrupting their challenges and burdens, they tacitly join me in blessing this treasured gift of a bountiful meal that brings us together.
I started receiving calls from VOA shortly after I started working for Temple Micah 17 years ago. Jim was on the line, asking if this congregation would please lend a Jewish presence and prayer at the Dinner for Those Who Hunger? He was trying to figure out how to publicly acknowledge and put a composite “face” on greater Denver’s generous Jewish-led businesses and individuals, often behind the scenes supporting VOA dinners for the hungry. While driving one day, he had noticed Temple Micah enshrined in a Park Hill church and thought this Jewish outpost looked like a spot whose devotees might be inclined toward Rev. King’s ideals. On a practical note, I explained fast that we didn’t have a rabbi available, so suggested that he check with another temple. But he protested and persisted. He was familiar with various synagogues, he said, and had a hunch that someone (anyone? – maybe me?) from Temple Micah would do this bidding with humility and take it to heart. No matter how I tried to dismiss the request, he wouldn’t hang up, just kept talking about all the reasons that a Jew should be there to say a prayer, not only a Christian pastor whom they already had. The plea struck me so piercingly, how could I reject it – this calling, so to speak? I couldn’t refuse, so I agreed – and that VOA call became my perennial convocation.
If only I had I known then what I know now – that his wife is Jewish and could pray instead of me! However, being there for the prayer became my custom. It’s a tiny, doable once-a-year date with destiny, a profoundly meaningful niche for carrying on my heritage of helping to mend the world. Having to produce an annual invocation keeps me still mulling how the Micah mission intersects with Martin Jr.’s mission. Being responsible for this invocation also preserves my sentimental link with the King Holiday, since in a prior job I helped to plan some of the first official observances of this holiday.
Reverence, gratitude and elation are always palpable at these events, momentarily overlaying any personal troubles amid the crowd. Many others besides me make the yearly pilgrimage to the Dinner for Those Who Hunger – a venerable local minister, popular musicians, a sound man ensuring that the entertainment is heard and volunteer servers dishing up the feast – as well as hundreds of guests who drop in for the food, plus clothes, hygiene items and this year, free blood pressure screenings. Typically, the line stretches out the door, down the stairs, down the block, sometimes even around the corner. We all know why we’re there. Rev. Emmitt Searuggs provides the Christian invocation and I the Jewish one, with Jim recounting a haunting chronology of milestones in the life of Rev. King.…the barrage of adversity, threats, attacks and eventual assassination… the courage and persistence required to never give up on doing justly… the devotion to peace, to the efficacy of nonviolent protest and to the urgency of feeding the hungry and alleviating poverty. As the singers sing, bands play and people sway, each Dinner for Those That Hunger moves me and motivates me to return. Here’s a morsel from my self-styled script in 2012:
“Now here we are at this year’s Dinner for Those Who Hunger, where it’s my turn to share a prayer because even though we’re all uplifted by such occasions, we still hunger. — We still hunger for the dream. We still yearn for a day when all people are at the table of plenty. We still hunger for equal access to life’s blessings. We still want to be included. We still want to be free to fulfill our potential as individual human beings and to reach our fuller potential as one unified community. We still seek peace, within ourselves and with one another. Let us continue to dream the big dream of the Rev. King, dream big and act bigger. For it isn’t only our dreams, but our words and most crucially our deeds that can carry forward the values that he stood for… his unwavering advocacy for civil and human rights and dignity for ALL people and his commitment to nonviolence, his dedication to principles of equal opportunity and freedom, his example of courage and persistence to do justice, show compassion and serve others. Jewish tradition tells us there’s not much difference between prayer and action. In one biblical passage, God is purported to say, ‘I don’t want your fast and your sacrifice. I want you to deal your bread to the hungry, tear apart the chains of the oppressed.’”
I always find too much food for thought in these dinners.
Special Speakeasy Invitation…
- Ante Up for Micah Speakeasy! — Indulge yourself now and RSVP for the Micah Speakeasy at http://www.micahdenver.org. Or better yet, opt in to add yourself or your business or organization to the burgeoning list of sponsors, all to benefit Temple Micah. Our Speakeasy promises plentiful temptations for shrewd gamblers to novices from 7:00-9:00 p.m. Saturday, March 3. This party could be your best chance ever to test your luck or learn to play games that you’ll adore while bolstering Temple Micah! Besides being Micah’s major fundraising binge of the year, this glorious night of casino sports and slightly decadent goodies guarantees friendly frolic in one of the city’s most intriguing venues, the Denver Press Club at 1330 Glenarm Place downtown. (Oh, can you imagine the stories this place could tell, if its walls could speak or write?) In case you need more excuses to bet on Temple Micah, call Elaine Lee at 303-388-4239 or e-mail elaine.lee@micahdenver.org.
Events of Particular Interest…
- Finding Ability in Disability: 4th Jewish Disabilities Awareness Day – What could be more compelling for Micah congregants striving to “Do Justly. Love Mercy. Walk Humbly.” than this event all about promoting understanding and inclusion from 2:00-5:00 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 12 at the Robert E. Loup Jewish Community Center, 350 S. Dahlia St., Denver? A talk by Rachel Simon, award-winning author of The Story of the Beautiful Girl, highlights activities of the Jewish Disabilities Network, whose Inclusion Committee includes Jeff Roberts representing Temple Micah. In prep for the occasion, all interested are urged to read this fictional tale of two residents of the School for the Incurable and Feebleminded, who fall in love. The book describes a 40-year span when many people with disabilities were mistreated and abused to the present when people have more opportunity to live as they choose. The novel is discounted at Tattered Cover through February, for those who mention Jewish Disabilities Awareness Day. Also, try the breakout sessions on employment, respite care and care coordination to a resource fair for families and caregivers. Enjoy dessert, a quilt project, an art exhibit and musical fun with PHAMALY. Questions? Call Inna Ermakov, 303-623-0251 x212.
- Doc Night: West Side Stories – Kris Schindler and John Thompson, Micah members, cordially invite fellow congregants to view a documentary, West Side Stories, and to hear remarks afterward by the filmmaker, Steve Feld. The movie at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16 at the Denver Film Center, 2510 E. Colfax, portrays the founding, growth and unlikely success of one of this country’s most dynamic Jewish communities, as told by those who lived it. Since the late 1800s, Jews from around the world started migrating to the wild West of Denver, because of the gold rush, the tuberculosis epidemic and a scam. The community was unique in that it replicated an eastern European shtetl in nearly every way. Later the community won fame as the childhood home of former Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir, Thomas Bopp who discovered the Hale-Bopp comet and Theodore Maiman, laser inventor. Corporations including Mattel and Samsonite also had their roots on Denver’s Jewish west side. For tickets at a possible group rate of $12 per person if interest warrants, contact Kris via Temple Micah, 303-388-4239.
- Denver Jewish Film Festival — The 16th Denver Jewish Film Festival presents cutting-edge Jewish cinema, from inspiring documentaries and suspenseful capers to campy slasher flicks and hilarious short films. Presented by Mizel Arts and Culture Center from Thursday, Feb. 23-Sunday, March 4, the festival brings 22 films to the screen, 17 of which are Colorado premieres. All of these screenings and related hoopla — such as an Art Happening for Teens with Judith Cassel-Mamet, Temple Micah’s president! — will be at the Denver Film Center, 2510 E. Colfax. The MACC box office leading to this festival is at 350 S. Dahlia St., or for schedule and tix, visit www.maccjcc.org/film, 303-316-6360.
Take Note of These Opportunities Too…
- Rock Talk with Barry Fey – Claiming to have sold more concert tickets than any other independent promoter, Barry Fey (also known as “The Rockfather”), shares anecdotes about musical stars in his memoir, Backstage Past, and with the Denver Jewish Chamber of Commerce from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9 at Hebrew Educational Alliance (HEA), 3600 S. Ivanhoe St., Denver. Get books signed and have a nosh, while exchanging business cards. Cost of the program is $18 for members of this recently revamped and renamed chamber group or $30 non-members before Wednesday, Feb. 8; or $35 at the door. Learn more from Bruce Berman, 303-908-9204, or register at www.DenverJewishChamber.com.
- HEA Job Alliance – Looking for work? Looking to hire? As a service to the greater Denver Jewish community, HEA maintains a job site for seekers and employers. Those in quest of work can submit information about their objectives and experience with contact info and resume links at http://www.headenver.org/heajobbbank.htm. Those who wish to post employment openings can do so on the same page.
- Magazine Calls for Entries from Jewish Youth – Teen Omanut, a national literary arts magazine for Jewish high school students, will give scholarship prizes for top fiction, non-fiction, poetry, photography, drawing and graphic design. Submission deadline for the contest is Thursday, March 1. See guidelines at www.theYFTIwebsite.com, or check with Zach Chutz, 248-661-5700, zchutz@temple-israel.org.
- Jewish Baby University (JBU) Spring Series — This series for first-time parents merges childbirth education with exploration of Jewish traditions associated with pregnancy, birth and parenting — and may result in a bonus of lasting friendships. Rabbi Jeffrey Kaye and Sue Geissler lead the program created by Colorado Agency for Jewish Education and co-sponsored by Rose Medical Center and the JCC. Spring session meets from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Sundays, April 22 and May 6 at Rose and 6:30-9:00 p.m. Mondays, April 30 and May 14 at the JCC. Cost is $165 per couple. JBU Plus is the JBU series plus extra courses on Thursdays, May 3, 10 and 17 for $250 per couple; those in either track may request a MazelTot discount. For details, call 303-316-6336.
Condolences…
The Micah community expresses sympathy and caring thoughts to the following members on recent losses of loved ones. May these bereaved families find strength and solace in friends.
- The Crystal Family – on the loss of Joe’s mother, Dina Claner
- The Roberts Family – on the loss of Jeff’s mother, Marilyn Roberts
- The Fischer Family — on the loss of Peter’s mother, Thelma Fischer
- The Feldman Family – on the loss of Liz’s aunt, Georgette Kimmel
- The Kasson Family – on the loss of Cheryl’s sister, Sandra Goldstein Eisenman
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February 1st, 2012
by Michael Clapman, Social Advocacy Chair and Board Member
Reform Judaism and Temple Micah, in particular, have embraced the concept of tikkum olam – repairing the world. This call charges Jews to reach out to individuals in need, to be aware of the challenges that face the disenfranchised and under-represented members of our community. For many years Temple Micah has been responding to that call through the Social Action Committee, providing food for the hungry and many other worthy direct-action activities that provide assistance to low-income people.
Recently, Temple Micah took the concept of tikkum olam in an additional direction by creating the Advocacy Committee. The purpose of Advocacy Committee is to speak out on behalf of the vulnerable, the disenfranchised and the under-represented members of our community through legislative action, advocacy and education.
After much discussion and polling of Temple Micah congregants, the committee chose to focus on the following two areas:
GLBT: Although gays and lesbians have made great strides toward parity in American society in some areas, they remain far from equal in too many peoples’ minds or in the eyes of the law. They remain, arguably, the last group of American citizens legally discriminated against. Temple Micah’s commitment to speaking out on behalf of these inequities has taken a number of forms – from supporting legislation favorable to the gay and lesbian community to marching in the annual Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade.
Immigration: Many of our ancestors came to this country to create a better life for themselves. What they found, however, was poverty, deplorable living conditions, work days that lasted 14 hours and more — and working conditions that often broke their spirit, if not their backs. But for them, the dream for a better life could become a reality. A path to citizenship existed, and we, the descendants of those immigrants, stand as testimony to that dream. Today, it is estimated that there are more than 11 million undocumented immigrants in the United States who have the same dream that our parents and grandparents had. Immigrants who came to this country, as our ancestors did, in search of a better life for themselves and their children – to work in factories, on farms, in hotels and restaurants, who work for low pay and no benefits as day laborers at menial jobs that no one else will perform. And yet, these immigrants do not have the promise of a path to citizenship. They and their children will forever live in the shadows of America’s affluence, unable to fulfill the dream of citizenship. Temple Micah believes that our immigrant heritage gives us a unique perspective and an increased responsibility to support the struggle of today’s undocumented workers.
If you would like to join us in our advocacy activities or would just like to keep informed, visit the Advocacy Blog at http://micahdenveradvocacy.blogspot.com/.
“Learn to do good. Devote yourselves to justice; aid the wronged. Uphold the rights of the orphan; defend the cause of the widow.” Isaiah 1:17
Posted in Temple Micah Board of Trustees | No Comments »
February 1st, 2012
by Rabbi Warren G. Stone
Source of Creation and Life of the Universe, we gather together on Tu B’Shvat, as Jews of conscience, with a deep spiritual bond to your natural wonders, to affirm and preserve creation.
We are grateful for creation in all its majesty: the ever-flowing waters, the azure blue skies, the complex life of Earth’s forests, the myriad of life forms–amoebae and falcon, black footed ferret and wild turkey, human being and soaring eagle. The life of all creatures and our own lives are One, profoundly dependent upon each other.
We call our ancient scroll of wisdom, the Torah, an “eytz chaim,” a tree of life, for it, like the Earth’s great forests, sustains us. Torah teaches us that creation, in its great diversity, is harmoniously interconnected. Like the trees, we too need strong and deep roots for nourishment. The uplifted branches of trees point to our future. God let us be strong, as strong as ancient trees. The Psalmist was right when he said, “like a tree planted by the waters, we shall not be moved.” We are grateful for the life we are lent. We pledge to lift up our voices both in praise of You and in defense of Your Creation.
With Tu B’Shvat coming up on Wednesday, Feb. 8, Temple Micah congregants may find meaning in this prayer, written by Rabbi Warren Stone of Temple Emanuel in Greater Washington, D.C.
Described in a biographical sketch as nationally known for his leadership on religion and the environment, he co-chairs the National Religion Coalition on Creation Care and is the founding chair of the Central Conference of American Rabbis’ Committee on the Environment.
As a panelist at the Union for Reform Judaism 2011 Biennial, Rabbi Stone led a session on Adam and Adamah: Jewish Values and the Environment, challenging participants to act more responsibly in their spheres of influence: “We as Jews have always been taught to be good stewards of our environment, balancing our needs ‘to till and tend’ the land. Yet we continue to take more than we need, endangering our earth and ourselves.” The session explored texts and commentary addressing issues from land use to energy policy, discussed how to return to “the responsibility of our tradition” and laid groundwork for “cultivating a contemporary Jewish environmental ethic.”
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January 1st, 2012
by Sheri Lockhart, Social Action Chair & Board Member
Here we are at the beginning of 2012 and I am questioning what we on the Social Action Committee have been able to accomplish. I am extremely grateful to my committee members. We have worked hard to try to motivate both our school and congregational communities and we thank those of you who have made your donations. However, we were hoping that the amounts donated would have been much greater. To do Social Action is mandated in the Micah by-laws and my personal motivation is to remind myself to think of others and help those in need.
I ask for your feedback and/or suggestions as we begin this new secular year. How can we motivate more of you to get involved? I even have tried hanging Micah Mitzvah Bags from my ears, but that did not seem to increase their sales significantly. Do we need new goals? Please let us know what you think.
Committee members Sarah Rovner and Mary Ann Strassner, are very involved with Habitat Interfaith Alliance. The following information informs you of HIA’s coming worthwhile projects. We hope you will participate in some way. Wishing you good things in the New Year.
Habitat Interfaith Alliance Events…
As you might know, Micah is involved in the Habitat Interfaith Alliance (HIA) group that raises all the funds necessary to build one home each year. Our fundraising events draw from the talents of our congregations and so we are writing to invite you to participate in our upcoming family event, the annual HIA Soup Cook-off, to be held at Christ the King Church on Saturday, Jan. 28. There are three ways in which you may choose to participate:
* Come and taste from a variety of soups and homemade goodies on that evening. Ticket prices are $10 per person or $30 per family.
* Volunteer to assist at the cook-off. Jobs are as fun and diverse as set-up (2:00-6:30 p.m.), selling tickets (5:30-6:45 p.m. or 6:00-7:00 p.m.), food area helping, coffee and dessert area monitoring or table helping (6:30-7:30 p.m. or 7:30-8:30), or clean-up (till done).
* Prepare a soup for the cook-off or prepare a dessert (specific info provided if you are interested — you must sign up in advance to provide a soup)
The soups will be labeled Vegetarian, Kosher, or Other and will be judged by clergy from the participating congregations in a festive atmosphere.
If you would like further information about how to participate in this fun event, which provides a way for our congregations to raise the funds to build our next house in the spring of 2012, please contact Sarah Rovner through Temple Micah, 303-388-4239.
As always, the Social Action Committee appreciates your support and participation. Looking ahead, watch for news about the annual HIA Book Sale as we are soliciting new or used books in good condition, to be sold from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6-Sunday, Feb. 12 (and open till 9:00 p.m. Wednesday, Feb.  at First Universalist Church, 4101 E. Hampden Ave., Denver. You’ll want to attend this fabulous sale and help turn thousands of donated books into bricks, nails and drywall toward our Habitat home in 2012. It’s another chance to participate in our goal to build another home for a needy, deserving family. Do you love books? Interested in volunteering to help sell? Want to help Habitat but can’t swing a hammer all day? This event is for you: easy shifts! To donate books or to volunteer for a shift, contact Mary Ann Strassner or Sarah Rovner, your HIA reps, through Temple Micah, 303-388-4239, or sign up at www.hiadenver.org. Thank you!
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January 1st, 2012
by Elaine Lee, Membership and Communications Coordinator
You need venture no farther than 2600 Leyden St. to celebrate Friday evening, Feb. 3 with a Reggae Shabbat Service Honoring New Members at Temple Micah. Led by Rabbi Adam Morris returning from his sabbatical month and musician Hal Aqua, this 6:00 p.m. service will honor Micah households joining the congregation since early September. Everyone’s invited, not only new members but also those who joined awhile back or long ago. Come greet, meet, regroup and appreciate one another! It’s a chance to see who’s who and to remind ourselves that together, we’re the Micah crew.
If you’re a prospective member – perhaps a family with one or more students in Temple Micah’s religious school and you’re hoping to join the congregation before its classes resume? — let me help you! I’m always happy to try to answer questions about Temple Micah or to point you toward someone who can. Also, you are welcome to visit the Temple Micah website at http://www.micahdenver.org for general information including membership info — and to download, print out and submit a membership form by scanning and e-mailing, faxing, mailing or literally bringing it to my attention at the temple. It would be my pleasure to guide your membership application to the board’s attention at its Tuesday, Jan. 10 meeting – coming up fast!
Any other “prospies” out there, please let me know how I may help you become a Micah member too. If you feel a little shy to apply or to request more info, be assured that Temple Micah likes people and wants to hear from you! Call 303-388-4239 or e-mail elaine.lee@micahdenver.org.
Micah Membership Update…
Welcome New Members!
- Peter & Suzanne Fischer of Denver
This winter, never mind occasional snow and ice, dauntless Micah Teamsters are extending themselves enthusiastically to other members and striving to increasingly connect them with one another. Even in the blustery season, Temple Micah aims to keep the communal climate nice and warm! To add your energy toward fueling this objective, let me know your willingness to be a “connector.” Ultimately, Temple Micah needs every member to be a “connector” in some way.
In the Hebrew parlance of the Union for Reform Judaism, two key concepts underpin the Micah community notion of being a warm, inclusive, close-knit synagogue (besides our specific mission of “Do Justly. Love Mercy. Walk Humbly”):
- Ahavat Ger — welcoming, or even loving, the stranger by trying to be kind and hospitable to all, and
- Keruv – drawing near those who are far, such that while reaching out to people not in the congregation and helping them to feel welcome, we also must reach inward to each congregational member and especially any who may feel less connected or more distant from Judaism than they would like
All members can help implement these compatible ideas. By keeping Ahavat Ger and Keruv concepts near the core of everything that Temple Micah does and contemplates doing, this congregation has strong chances of continuing to recruit, engage and retain lifers! Beyond being here for the fulfillment of ourselves and our families, lifelong members are a means to our temple mission’s viability and endurance.
Meanwhile, all members ought to have received a 2012 Temple Micah Membership Directory by mail. Please use it often to reach fellow congregants, the temple’s leadership and its staffers like me. Whether to talk about upcoming events, to figure how to get more involved, to make a request, to share a suggestion or to update household info, please let me know how the congregation may serve you effectively. l look forward to hearing from you – and to seeing you soon and often in 2012. Thanks for your support, past, present and future!
Going on Around Town…
- Limmud will bring together Jews of all ages and backgrounds for dynamic learning on wide-ranging topics of Jewish interest Saturday, Jan. 21-Sunday, Jan. 22 at the Inverness Hotel & Conference Center in Denver Tech Center. Register with Beth Steinhorn, 303-908-2785.
- JFS Bereavement Group for those having lost a loved one will meet from 1:30-3:00 p.m. Wednesdays, Feb. 1-March 21, to support people through the grieving process and to foster connections with self, faith and community. Rabbi Eliot Baskin, Jewish community chaplain, and Arleen Gershen, LCSW, a psychotherapist, will co-facilitate this group sponsored by Rafael Spiritual Healing Services, part of the Counseling Center and Jewish Community Chaplaincy of Jewish Family Service at 3201 S. Tamarac Drive, Denver. Cost is $100. Or ask Gershen how to arrange financial aid at 720-248-4598.
(Note: Micah members can update yahrzeit information about lost loved ones for inclusion in the temple database. For temple record-keeping, please submit your name, your relation to the deceased, a complete yahrzeit date including month, day of month and year that death occurred on the secular, not Hebrew, calendar. If you have related questions, want to check what information the temple has or need to add data, please notify me at elaine.lee@micahdenver.org or 303-388-4239.)
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January 1st, 2012
by Brian Silverman, Member, Space Planning Committee and Board of Trustees
A home is much more than just shelter or a place to keep our other possessions; it’s where we experience some of the most important moments in our lives. For the past three decades Temple Micah’s home has been shared with Park Hill Congregational Church and the relationship has been warm and enriching. Members of both congregations share deep commitments to community, justice, and peace and work together to promote these ideals through dialog and action. However, the Micah community finds itself in a unique position after many decades; our congregation has grown to the point where we will soon no longer fit in our current space. Additionally, that space has aged and now has some significant and expensive deficiencies.
Micah’s Space Planning Committee that includes Rabbi Adam Morris, Sharon Thorson, Michael Clapman and myself has been asked by the board to look at options beyond the current facility. Our goal is not to find Micah a new home but to search for possibilities that fall within our financial and geographic framework while retaining our all-important “Micah-ness.” This charge includes staying connected with our community while considering the question posed by Rabbi Morris at our most recent annual meeting, “How do we Synagogue?” The question opens the possibility of unconventional spaces and partnerships as the traditional idea that worship, social, educational and administrative spaces must all be under one roof is challenged.
Thus far the committee has looked at commercial space, universities, events centers, churches for lease/sale and possible partnerships with other religious organizations. While a number of these options did not turn out to be viable, there are some exciting possibilities with both commercial space and other existing religious groups. Where the idea of a partnership was broached, many non-Jewish communities were welcoming and expressed interest. In those circumstances further dialog is planned as the space planning committee continues the research.
The idea of moving Micah’s home from our current residence is disconcerting, given our long-standing and overwhelmingly positive relationship with Park Hill Congregational Church. However, the unprecedented position that we find ourselves in necessitates a thoughtful investigation and review of Micah’s space needs and options in our community. The space planning committee’s investigation has revealed some choices that fall outside of the traditional Synagogue model, though our efforts are infused with the idea that whatever options we present must preserve the unique characteristics of the Micah community.
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January 1st, 2012
by Rabbi Adam Morris
As I write January’s blog post, I am about to embark upon (or as you are reading this post I am already in the midst of) my third installment of Sabbatical time. Having just attended the Reform movement’s Biennial in Washington, D.C., in December, I had the chance to connect with a few rabbinic and cantorial colleagues and ultimately the subject of my upcoming month would come up. The discussions and reactions from those among my colleagues covered a varied spectrum. Some thought it incredible (and unrealistic for them) that I could even consider taking any sabbatical time at all. Others wondered how a month of time could even begin to be enough time — as it took them just a few weeks to get into ‘sabbatical’ mode. Yet others offered their advice and wisdom from their own experiences as to how to maximize this gift of time.
I will fully admit that I am still learning how to use this gift to its fullest. One of my friends and colleagues compared sabbatical to a mini-retirement. This friend posits that retiring is much more than simply ‘not working.’ While the element of ‘not working’ can initially define the retirement period of one’s life, being retired still requires mindful preparation and planning towards creating a life that is full, vibrant and fulfilling. I appreciate that perspective, for one important lesson that I have learned so far in trying to make the most of this gift is that this time is deeper, broader and more significant than simply ‘not working’ at Temple Micah for a month.
As I approached my first experience of this time in January 2010, I felt an affinity toward the biblical concept of Sabbatical for the land. In Leviticus the Israelites are charged with the vision of allowing the land they are farming to lie fallow once every seven years. In preparation for that month, I viewed myself as the ‘land’ that needed to lie fallow, to not be worked. In turn, I approached that month with that concept as my backdrop. I think that I overlooked — certainly did not see fully — an important element of that metaphor. I assumed that because those Israelite farmers would not be ‘working’ the land, then nothing would happen within the land itself. However, if I reach far back into the recesses of my mind and recall the environmental science classes of my school-going days, I realize my assumption is incomplete. Soil — when not being worked by farmers — still teems with life and the ecological systems that form its essential nature. Perhaps the absence of the farmer’s constancy allows these systems to deepen and broaden the soil’s systems of life.
I have come to understand the value, the need, the essence of paying attention to and cultivating such internal ecological systems of my own. This time — as I am coming to understand it — allows me the opportunity to deepen and broaden the systems that define me and drive me.
What has not changed each year as I prepare to embark on Sabbatical time is my deep sense of gratitude. I serve a community that understands itself; that honors the relationships between itself and its rabbi AND that values me … and in turn sees Sabbatical time as an important tool in preserving and cultivating all of these elements.
Todah Rabbah … I look forward to reconnecting with you in February.
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January 1st, 2012
TURN WITH US TO NEXT 12 MONTHS
·SPEAKING OF JANUARY… Launching into 2012, Temple Micah congregants get to listen to one another and to a guest clergywoman too, as privileges of being here in January (Rabbi Adam Morris’s sabbatical month). During this span of services at the synagogue, 2600 Leyden St., Denver, Micah constituents will hear three Shabbat speakers’ insights on varied subjects:
6:00 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6 – Dr. Fredric R. Kutner, a Micah member and physician, discusses “Health Care Advanced Directives, Why We Need Them.” He will explain why and how to plan ahead with these tools or living wills. Special thanks to Jewish Family Service of Colorado for sponsoring refreshments afterward.
10:00 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14 — Judith Cassel-Mamet, Temple Micah president, and an artist and art educator who teaches University of Denver classes on Innovation and Creativity, will talk about “Cultivating the Creative Spirit.” She’ll present a snapshot of current research on creativity and muse about her experiences muddling through the mundane, trying to find ways to cultivate creativity.
6:00 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20 — Rev. Nadia Bolz-Weber of House for All Sinners and Saints, will describe how she and her small congregation in Park Hill are cultivating spirituality in new modes. “Lutheran pastor Nadia Bolz-Weber is a dichotomy wrapped in a paradox covered in tattoos,” according to a recent Denver Post article, while her website describes her as “a leading voice in the emerging church movement.” A Shabbat Sampler Supper ensues nearby at 7:15-ish after the service. For restaurant details and supper seating, contact Elaine Lee, 303-388-4239.
·WARM UP KIDS’ WINTER WEEKENDS… Give your youngsters enchanting Sundays – Jan. 8, 15, 22 and 29 – when the first Temple Micah Bubbyes’ & Zaydes’ Winter Camp delivers abundant Jewish fun and culture for 5- to 10-year-olds. Heritage-filled crafts, dancing, stories, cooking, games and songs will be led by grandparents and like-minded cohorts from 10:00-11:30 a.m. at Temple Micah’s 26th and Leyden address. Sign up children for any or all of these dates… a $5 per morning fee assures a child’s spot and helps to defray activity costs. Register now at http:⁄⁄www.micahdenver.org or by a week before each camp program. Alternatively, the form and payment can be sent or brought to the temple before the camp deadlines. B⁄Z questions? Ask Nancy Bieber, reachable via Temple Micah, 303-388-4239. Younger ones (and their parents and sibs) can try Me’at Shabbat, Temple Micah’s toddler-focused program at 9:00 a.m. on first Saturdays now through May at Temple Micah, including one led by Jacob and Emma Theis, Micah teens, on Jan. 7.
·MORE ABOUT SHABBAT SAMPLER SUPPERS… Temple Micah’s spunky Shabbat Sampler Suppers are erupting at nearby eateries on third Fridays monthly, right after 6:00 p.m. services at 2600 Leyden St., Denver. The next supper is set for Friday, Jan. 20, when we’ll proceed from the temple’s 6:00 Shabbat Service including remarks by Rev. Nadia Bolz-Weber, to arrive about 7:15 p.m. at Famous Dave’s in Stapleton, 7557 E. 36th Ave. RSVP by Monday, Jan. 16, 303-388-4239, for this BBQ gathering. Choose your chow and quench your thirst from the menu choices, set your own price and let yourself go! Be a regular by adding your name to Micah’s monthly dining list. Or if you can’t commit to all or most third Fridays through May, just opt in for a month at a time. All members, newcomers, pals, prospective members and others inclined are welcome to relax, rejuvenate and share a little time together. No pressure. No fuss. These casual get-togethers are all about what Temple Micah is “almost famous” for – being friendly.
·GAZE AHEAD TO REGGAE SHABBAT… It’s confirmed for 6:00 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, honoring new Micah members having joined since last Labor Day. Get into the Reggae Shabbat Service groove with “Rabbi Mo-rley” and Hal Aqua. This event is meant for ALL Micah congregants.
THOUGHTS FROM…
RABBI ADAM MORRIS:
SABBATICAL SHIFTS FROM TILLING SOIL TO MANY-SPLENDORED TIME
As I write January’s blog post, I am about to embark upon (or as you are reading this post I am already in the midst of) my third installment of sabbatical time. Having just attended the Reform movement’s Biennial in Washington, D.C., in December, I had the chance to connect with a few rabbinic and cantorial colleagues and ultimately the subject of my upcoming month would come up. The discussions and reactions from those among my colleagues covered a varied spectrum. Some thought it incredible (and unrealistic for them) that I could even consider taking any sabbatical time at all.
BRIAN SILVERMAN, MEMBER, SPACE PLANNING COMMITTEE AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES: EXPLORING TEMPLE’S POTENTIAL TERRAIN
A home is much more than just shelter or a place to keep our other possessions; it’s where we experience some of the most important moments in our lives. For the past three decades Temple Micah’s home has been shared with Park Hill Congregational Church and the relationship has been warm and enriching. Members of both congregations share deep commitments to community, justice, and peace and work together to promote these ideals through dialog and action.
ELAINE LEE, MEMBERSHIP AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR:
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT– PUT REGGAE SHABBAT ON YOUR MICAH MAP
You need venture no farther than 2600 Leyden St. to celebrate Friday evening, Feb. 3 with a Reggae Shabbat Service Honoring New Members at Temple Micah. Led by Rabbi Adam Morris on return from a month-long sabbatical and musician Hal Aqua, this 6:00 p.m. service will honor Micah households that have joined the congregation since early September. Everyone’s invited, not only new members but also those who joined awhile back or long ago. It’s a chance to see who’s who and to remind ourselves that together, we’re the Micah crew.
SHERI LOCKHART, SOCIAL ACTION CHAIR AND BOARD MEMBER:
WHAT MOVES YOU TO GIVE TIME, PEP, DOLLARS OR STUFF?
Here we are at the beginning of 2012 and I am questioning what we on the Social Action Committee have been able to accomplish. I am extremely grateful to my committee members. We have worked hard to try to motivate both our school and congregational communities and we thank those of you who have made your donations of food, hygiene items and winter clothing. However, we were hoping that the amounts donated would have been much greater.
Do Justly. Love Mercy. Walk Humbly.
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