The Adams Street Shul

Dear Congregants and Friends,

I have just returned from Israel, where I went primarily to celebrate the Bar Mitzvah of my grandson, Yonatan.  Needless to say, it was wonderful.  Here are some of the main issues in Israel right now:

One of the main issues in Israel now is the hope and prayer that Gilad Shalit will be released from his captivity by Hamas terrorists. The agony in this is that Hamas is demanding the release of countless vicious terrorists who have caused the death of so many innocent people and may well do so again. It is a great burden, and Israel is wrestling with it to the very best of its ability.

The other problem now taking center stage is Prime Minister Netanyahu’s order that all building be stopped over the "green line." This is being sharply opposed by thousands upon thousands of Israelis from all walks of life. The Palestinians have shown no serious desire for peace negotiations, and Israel feels that undue pressure from Washington is both unfair to Israel and even to Arab workers who will lose their jobs.

Everyone was deeply saddened at the passing of Rabbi Levi Horowitz, the Bostoner Rebbe, z"l. He passed away on Shabbat and the funeral was that very evening, making it difficult for many to attend. However, I did make a Shiva visit to the family and I know they were very gratified to see me in the realization that, in some way, I represented so many who were far away but wanted to pay their respects to this great man who will be sorely missed by all. May his memory always be for a blessing.

But the good news is that Chanukah is around the corner, and the most beautiful menorahs with lots of decorations are seen everywhere. Every type of "sufganiah" (special donut) is readily available in every size and composition. One sees the usual donuts filled with jelly, as well as chocolate oozing cakes, which makes one count the hours to the festival. In Israel, many of the menorahs are shielded by glass and lit on the street.

I am sure that you are all aware that Chanukah will begin Friday night. We light the first candle BEFORE the Shabbat candles. In my home, we light the Chanukah candles on Friday and say "Haneirot Hallalu." When I come home from shul, we sing "Shalom Aleichem" and then "Ma-oz Tzur." Check with your Siddur. There are three blessings the first night, but by two blessings on all the following nights. Please call me (617-467-4647) if you have any questions.

Chanukah is a beautiful and inspirational festival, and we should observe it to the fullest. Please make every effort to attend services on Shabbat morning and join in the tunes of the joyful Hallel and Kiddush following the services.

SHABBAT SHALOM AND CHANUKAH SAMEACH TO ALL OUR CONGREGANTS AND FRIENDS!

---Rabbi Norbert Weinberg