ITON TZIYON

The Newsletter of Mount Zion Temple

January/February 2014

Shevat/Adar 5774Vol. 158, No. 4

iuhm iuTg¦¦¦ ¦

Panim el Panim

Audacious Hospitality“Where people truly wish to go, there their feet will manage to take them.”

– Talmud, Sukkah 53a

We all want to feel accepted. When we do, we feel part of community.When we don’t, we feel alone. The question for us — as a congregation

that strives to be a sacred community — is how do we practice what Rabbi Rick Jacobscalls audacious hospitality?

When you have attended a class, service, or event at Mount Zion, has someone reachedout to you? Have you welcomed someone else? Hospitality is a two-way street and eachone of us must participate for a culture of welcome to be authentic.

At the Reform Movement Biennial in the middle of December, over 5000 people joinedto learn, worship, dream, and celebrate. The President of the Union for Reform Ju-daism, Rabbi Jacobs said in his keynote speech:

Audacious hospitality isn’t just a temporary act of kindness so that people don’tfeel left out; it’s an ongoing invitation to be part of a community where we canbecome all that God wants us to be - and a way to transform ourselves in theprocess. Audacious hospitality is a two-way street, where synagogue and strangerneed each other. Hospitality is not just our chance to teach newcomers but, justas important, an opportunity for them to teach us.

There are many changes happening in Jewish life in America. The one constant, I pray,is that the synagogue will remain the epicenter of a vibrant Jewish community. It willonly do so when we value each person in our congregation. Mount Zion’s future is strongprecisely because this focus is clear. Beyond the center of Judaism –Torah, Tzedek (jus-tice), Israel, and Shabbat – we know that our relationships will bring these manifest giftsto ourselves and the world. This is why Mount Zion’s five-year strategic plan that is beingdeveloped will be called; “Strengthening Connections.” May each of us take to heart thesense of audacious hospitality that is required to make these connections possible.

L’shalom,

Adam Stock Spilker, Rabbi

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L’DOR VADORFROM GENERATION TO GENERATION

MAZEL TOV TO...Our members who will celebrate a milestone anniversary in January and February: James & JudithOrner, Walter & Lois Baum, Barry & MelissaFrank, Ellen & Martin Sampson.

Erin (Stein) and Steven Chortek on their weddingon November 11.

Jodi (Joseph) and Jeff Danovsky on their weddingon October 5.

Jennifer Frisch on being appointed by GovernorDayton as District County Judge in Ramsey County.

Sandra and David Ratliff on the birth of theirdaughter, Tirzah Ruth, on November 14.

FROM THE RABBI

ZICHRONAM LIVRACHAMay their memories be a blessing

We note with sorrow the passing of our members:

Maxine ApplebaumOur condolences to her family,

including her husband, Stuart Applebaum, daughter Sally (James) Beloff,

and brother Stuart Goldbarg (Phyllis Beatty).

Lionel GreenbergOur condolences to his family.

Dr. Irvin E. LienerOur condolences to his family.

Robert “Bob” KatzOur condolences to his family, including his wife Judy Katz.

WE EXTEND CONDOLENCES TO...Pam Leeds-Ragborg (Jim Ragborg) on the death ofher mother, Rya Terry Leeds, on October 8.

Rose Gross on the death of her daughter, BarbaraGross, on November 18.

Celita (Eric) Levinson on the death of her step-father, Concepcion Arzola Castillo, on November 12.

Dorothy Lipschultz on the death of her brother,Ernest Naiditch, on November 27.

Sandy (Glenn) Stevermer on the death of her father,Leon Engel, on November 14.

May God grant peace to all who mourn and comfort to all who are bereaved.

“The giving of Torah happened at one specific time, butthe receiving of Torah happens all the time, in everygeneration.” - Meir Alter, the Gerer Rebbe

We welcome William Chittendon who has recentlychosen Judaism: May he go from strength to strength!

WELCOME...B’RUCHIM HA’BAIM... TO OUR NEW MEMBERS!Miriam Amster (Mim)

Sarah and Matthew (Matt) DaviniJudith (Judi) Feldman

Aimee GonzalezBen and Angela Knorr

and their children Jocelyn, Mason and SamanthaMax MilsteinJessica Ostrov

An Invitation for New Members!

New Member HavdalahSaturday, February 1, 4:30 – 6 p.m.

Joe and Ellen Konstan’s House

Please come to Joe and Ellen’s home for a special Havdalah with clergy and staff, tem-ple leadership, and members who joined Mount Zion in 2013/14. Together, we willcelebrate the transition from Shabbat to the new week, and from strangers to friends.Child care will be provided.

RSVP to Ellen Konstan by February 25 at 651-698-5754 or ellen.konstan@gmail.com

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MAKE SHABBAT YOUR SANCTUARYIton Tziyon Cover

By Sally Glick

I have the pleasure and privilege ofleading Daily Services one Sunday amonth at 9:30 in the morning. Thosewho are observing a yahrtzeit for aloved one, people who want a momentof reflection, and a handful of “regu-lars” attend this 15-minute service.When I began to volunteer, it was togive back for all the times that I at-tended and felt comforted. Now,though, I lead services for the connec-

tion that invariably occurs during the service, if just for a moment, withthe people that are there. 15 minutes can make such a difference; I knowthese 15 do for me.

Sally, her husband David, and children Rachel (18) and David (16) havebeen members of Mount Zion for ten years.

Schedule Every Shabbat Day9:00 a.m. Open Torah Study - Drop in any time to

study the week’s Torah portion (listed above).*Using a triennial [3 year] cycle, we are reading thefirst third of each parashah this year.

10:00 a.m. Shabbat Morning Service

FRIDAY SHABBATEVENING SERVICES

SATURDAY SHABBATMORNING SERVICES

January 3, 6:30 p.m.Celebrate Shabbat!

Soul Food Friday, 7:30 p.m. (see p.16)

January 10, 7:30 p.m.Shabbat Shirah led by SPORTY

Professional Quartet, Guitar Corps,and Shir Chants Participate

January 17, 7:30 p.m.Torah Tones Partcipates

Birthday BlessingsFood for Thought (see p.12)

January 24, 7:30 p.m.Celebrate Shabbat!

January 31, 7:30 p.m.Guitar Corps Participates

VocalPoint Chorus & Torah Tones(see p.5)

January 4, 10:00 a.m.Bo - Ex. 10:1-11:3*

Celebrate Shabbat!

January 11, 10:00 a.m.Beshalach - Ex. 13:17-15:26 –

Shabbat Shirah*Andrew Abrahamson, Bar Mitzvah

January 18, 10:00 a.m.Yitro - Ex. 18:1-27 & 20:1-14*Learning Liturgy (see p.10)

January 25, 10:00 a.m.Mishpatim - Ex. 21:1-22:3*

Celebrate Shabbat!

Daily Service ScheduleDaily services are held in the Harris Chapel, Monday through Thursdayat 5:45 p.m., Sundays at 9:30 a.m.

JanuaryMondays: Rita Grossman, Ellen Sampson, Ira KippTuesdays: John Mast, Batya Spector, Howard CuttsWednesdays: Eric Lund, Michael Epstein, Marjorie AbrahamsonThursdays: Patrick Zimmerman, Barbara Barany, Susan BenfieldSundays: Rita Grossman, Lindsay Nauen, Ray Sevett, Sally Glick,Anne and Kurt Schaeffer

FebruaryMondays: Rita Grossman, Nancy Mason Hauser, Rick HauserTuesdays: John Mast, Janet Kampf, Victor Vital, Deb BacharachWednesdays: Eric Lund, Phil Goldman, Gus GutmanThursdays: Patrick Zimmerman, Jean King Appelbaum, Stuart AppelbaumSundays: Rita Grossman, Lindsay Nauen, Gloria Levin, Ray Sevett,Anne and Kurt Schaeffer

If you would like to participate in Leading or Greeting at daily services, contact Janet 651-482-9951 or Charles 651-646-6543.

Tot ShabbatTot Shabbat is the second Saturday of every month.For families with children from birth to seven years old.

Prepare for Tu BiSh’vatSaturday, January 11 at 10:30 a.m.

Tetzaveh: About the Ancient PriestsSaturday, February 8 at 10:30 a.m.

Please bring a healthy, nut-free vegetarian dish to share.

JANUARY

FRIDAY SHABBATEVENING SERVICES

SATURDAY SHABBATMORNING SERVICES

February 7, 6:30 p.m.Shir Tzion Participates

Soul Food Friday, 7:30 p.m. (see p.16)

February 14, 7:30 p.m.Professional Quartet

February 21, 7:30 p.m.Food for Thought (see p. 9)

Pulpit Guest: Allyson Perling (see p. 12)Birthday Blessings

Volunteer of the Quarter

February 28 Shabbat at Home

(see back page)

Brief Service, 5:45 - 6:00 p.m.

February 1, 10:00 a.m.Terumah - Ex. 25:1-40*

Learning Liturgy (see p.10)

February 8, 10:00 a.m.Tetzaveh - Ex. 27:20-28:30*Daniel Kool, Bar Mitzvah

February 15, 10:00 a.m.Ki Tissa - Ex. 30:11-31:17*

Learning Liturgy (see p. 10)

February 22, 10:00 a.m.Vayakhel – Ex. 35:1-36:19*

Annabelle Epstein, Bat Mitzvah

FEBRUARY

Photo credit: Sue Lund Photography

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Honoring the Memory and Mission ofThe Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Friday, January 17Food for Thought

Learn and Nosh before Shabbat Services

5:45 - 6:15 p.m. Gathering and a Light Nosh6:15 - 7:15 p.m. Food for Thought Discussion

Discussion over wine, juice, and light appetizers. Child care available.

Our Community: Voices from the Rondo Neighborhood

A Mount Zion conversation of learning in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend.

We will learn about the Rondo community of St. Paul as we begin building long-term relationships with an important church in that community, Camphor Memorial United Methodist Church. Our member Kate Cavett, who edited a book of oral histories Voices of Rondo,will share stories of the history of the dynamic Rondo Neighborhood, adiverse neighborhood north of Mount Zion, that after WWII becamea mostly Black neighborhood, and was deeply affected by the construction of highway 94. She will be joined by several CamphorChurch members who grew up in the Rondo community including Dr.Mary Kalleen Murray Boyd, retired area superintendent of the SaintPaul Public Schools and former member of the Board of Trustees ofHamline University; she is an Intercultural Development Consultant,and still an active elder in the Rondo community.

Pulpit Guest: Rev. Gloria Thomas Shabbat Services, 7:30 p.m.

Reverend Gloria Roach Thomas is an Ordained Clergyin the United Methodist Minnesota Annual Conferenceand is in her 11th year serving as Senior Pastor at Cam-phor Memorial United Methodist Church. She holds B.S. and M. S. degrees in Education from Winthrop Uni-versity in South Carolina and a Master of Divinity from

United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities. A native of South Car-olina, she has resided in Minnesota for 37 years. She was married to thelate Leroy Thomas for 32 1/2 years and has two adult children.

Congregational Shabbat DinnerFriday, March 7, Dinner: 5 p.m.; Service: 6:30 p.m. Cost: $9 for adults; $5 for childrenThis Shabbat Dinner has been generously subsidized byMount Zion’s Brotherhood.*

Why cook? Come to Mount Zion for Shabbat dinner before services for good food and better company. Register online atwww.mzion.nirsham.com/events. For more information, contact Jennifer at jbaddin@mzion.org or 651-698-3881.

*Keeping our dinners affordable is a goal because they are opportunities for com-munity building and celebrating Jewishly together. We are grateful for Brother-hood’s support. We are also seeking individual donors for future dinners; please bein touch with Larry (lsolomon@mzion.org) if you’d like to help.

5774 Yom Kippur Fast AppealYesher koach to our community for the tzedakah raised this year

for the following organizations:

Results of our 5774 Yom Kippur Food DriveWe collected 4,200 pounds of food. Last year we collected 2,800pounds of food. Thank you so much for supporting this effort.

MTZ Cemetery $1,082.66Jeremiah Project $829.00Neighborhood House $2,674.99JCA $935.99Nechama $834.68Mazon $1,674.52URJ Disaster Relief $1,375.00

YOZMA $206.00Uganda Abayudaya $449.00Syrian Refugees in Jordan $31.00

2013 Total Gifts $10,362.84 2012 Total Gifts $7,092.372011 Total Gifts $12,476

Six Locations: Jan. 20, 7- 9:30 a.m.Details at www.spacc/org/mlk

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I was lucky enough to attend the Union for Reform Ju-daism Biennial held in conjunction with the 100th an-niversary of the Women for Reform Judaism in SanDiego. Eleven representatives from Mount Zion at-tended the Biennial. I think all of us were really inspiredand amazed. The meetings bring together about 5000

participants from the United States, Canada, Israel and other nations.There are opportunities for worship, learning, connecting, singing, andfun. I attended the Biennial when it was held in the Twin Cities 10 yearsago, but I think it has grown and become even better. I truly wish every-one could attend.

Here are my 10 reasons to attend the Biennial (in contrast to the “TopTen” list on the David Letterman show, these are in no particular order):

Hear the stars of Reform Jewish thinking—people you’ve read and•heard about.Worship, sing and celebrate with ~5000 other Jews!•Hear amazing music by our most inspiring song writers and song•leaders, often all together!Become energized about ANY involvement you have at ANY level•in Jewish life and institutions.Get answers to questions and ask more questions.•Shop at the most amazing market place for personal and public Ju-•daica, books, information etc.Meet up with friends from different times in your life, different com-•munities or life stages. Make new connectionsRealize how wonderful Mount Zion is and what great clergy we have!•Realize that very smart people are thinking about important issues•that affect our Jewish community and us.Get out of our silo—we are part of a peoplehood and a world move-•ment and it is amazing.

The URJ website has links to many of the major addresses and sessions andyou can view them there. The next Biennial is in November of 2015 in Or-lando, Florida and I hope to be able to go. Join me!

One of the major themes of the Biennial was relational Judaism, switchingthe focus of the temple from transactions and programs to people and re-lationships within the temple. This is the basis of a sacred community offace to face relationships leading to a deeper relationship with Judaismand a more fulfilled life. The Mount Zion Board has been discussing andworking toward our Strategic Plan and we have included these relationalthemes in our goals.

We discussed these goals at the open Kehillah (Community) Councilmeeting on December 17. Look for reports in the coming months as webegin turning the goals into proposed action.

Betsy Rest, President

FROM THE PRESIDENTCHAI NOTES

Trope Troupe... the more Torah, the more life. -Hillel

Todah Rabah to our November/December Ba’aleiKorei (chanting Torah): Sharon DeMark, Brad Elkin,Phoebe Ellis, Siana Goodwin, Jennifer Hakes, Seth Levin,Brian Serle, Steve Silverman, Kent Simon, Sandy Weisberg

Todah Rabah to our November/December Ba’alei Haftarah (chanting Haftarah): Harvey Arbit, Amy Ariel,Sue Benfield, Liddy Rich, Karen Gjerstad, Brian Serle, SandyWeisberg

To sign up to chant Torah or Haftarah on Shabbat, e-mail Cantor Jennifer Strauss-Klein at jstraussklein@mzion.org

Our Bodies, Our Souls 201417th Annual Retreat for Women

Lakhn (Laugh!) Oy into Joy

Friday Evening to Saturday EveningJanuary 24-25

At Dunrovin Retreat Center (Marine on St. Croix)Register at: mzion.nirsham.com/form/obos2014

Co-sponsored by Mount Zion Sisterhood.

Would you like to learn how to play Shabbat songson the guitar for Shabbat at Home?

Come learn Shabbat songs with Mount Zion’s own Guitar Corps!

January 12, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.Please note that the focus will be on learning to play songson guitar, and these sessions are intended for those withbasic guitar skills and the ability to read chord sheets.However, non-guitar players are welcome if there is suffi-cient space!

Session is free, but please pre-register so we have enoughmaterials. Email Julie at jbeckman@mzion.org to register!

Torah Tones & VocalPoint Chorus at Shabbat ServicesFriday, January 31, 7:30 p.m.

Mount Zion and Torah Tones welcomes VocalPoint Chorus asguest singers. This will be a preview of their upcoming February 8and 9 concerts. Those concerts will be a festival of global choralmusic celebrating the work of Neighborhood House.

VocalPoint Chorus is an intense choral experience that challenges people through music to build a better world. They donate 100%of performance-driven donations to a worthy cause that will makea dramatic impact in everyday lives.

Learn more at www.vocalpointchorus.org. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear this wonderful guest choir!

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CARING COMMUNITY

Alzheimer’s Support and Education GroupMeets the 4th Tuesday of every month

Next meeting: Tues., Jan. 28 & Feb. 25, 7:00 p.m. at Mount Zion

Led by Chris Rosenthal, LISW Jewish Family Services, 651-690-8920.

Mount Zion Cares!The Caring Community Program is here to help Mount Zion Temple members in their moments of need. We reach out to you with a helping

hand when there is injury, illness, grief or other life stressors.

We provide meals, rides, visitors, and shiva support.To get help contact the program at caringcommunity@mzion.org

or call 651-698-3881.

B’NEI MITZVAH

Andrew is the son of Joe and Jackie Abrahamson. Heis the grandson of Orrin and Beverly Sechter andNancy Abrahamson and the late Al Abrahamson. An-

drew is in 7th grade at Wayzata West Middle School where he enjoysmath and language arts. He loves golf, basketball and baseball. WhenAndrew gets older, he would like to be involved with the stock mar-ket and follow in his grandfather’s footsteps. Through becoming aBar Mitzvah, Andrew has learned that persistence and hard work areimportant traits that will last a lifetime. He also has a love of animalsand is planning on donating part of his gift money to Blue Sky Res-cue of Minnesota.

Andrew AbrahamsonJanuary 11, 2014

Daniel KoolFebruary 8, 2014

Picture and bio not available.

Annabelle is the daughter of Richard Epstein andMelissa Weisman. She is the granddaughter of IrwinWeisman and Margery Weisman (of blessed memory),

and the granddaughter of Mark and Carol Epstein. Annabelle is cur-rently in the 7th grade at Blackhawk Elementary School in Eagan. Herfavorite subjects are History and English. She also enjoys playing sax-ophone in the 7th grade band and jazz band. Annabelle loves to dogymnastics and volleyball. Besides wanting to be a gymnast in theOlympics, Annabelle would like to be an anesthesiologist or a marinemammal biologist. Annabelle’s volunteer project is helping prepareschool projects for the teachers at Lifetrack, a nonprofit organizationfor kids who have trauma and abuse problems at home. In additionto helping people, Annabelle has a passion for helping animals. As anexpression of her concern for animals, Annabelle will be donating aportion of her gifts to the Animal Humane Society.

Annabelle EpsteinFebruary 22, 2014

Making Judaism relevant to 20- & 30- somethings at Mount Zion!For more information on upcoming events, to get involved, or to simply get on our mailing list, email Aimee Gonzalez atagc0610@gmail.com or find our group on Facebook!

NOAZIM - 20S/30S GROUP

Soul Food FridayCome for the food, stay and feed your soul!

First Friday of every month.January 3 & February 7

Shabbat Dinner* @ 7:15 p.m.Kabbalat Shabbat Service @ 8:15 p.m.

Connect with new people at this friendly and inviting service! Singles,couples, partners, ALL are welcome! *For dinner, RSVP tonoazim.mz@gmail.com ($5).

Yesher koach to the B’nei Mitzvah Class of 2012-13

In honor of their B’nei Mitzvah, families contributed to a fund insteadof giving individual gifts to classmates.

They raised $3056!Half of this will be saved for them to give as their ConfirmationClass gift in 10th grade. The other half will be distributed to organ-izations the students chose last year in 7th grade. NeighborhoodHouse ($764), The Trevor Project ($382), and MAZON: A JewishResponse to Hunger ($382). Well done/kol hakavod!

Mount Zion’s 11/12th Graders PresentThe Real Reel: Jews in the Movies

The King’s SpeechSaturday, January 11, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

at Mount ZionAll are welcome!

What: Dinner, Havdallah, and a moviePlease bring a picnic dinner. There will be popcorn andIzzies soda available for purchase (.50/.75 cents each).

The Real Reel is a class that wishes to share a love of

film and Judaism with you. Join us in our exploration of

Jewish content that can be found throughout cinema.

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50% of those served by NeighborhoodHouse food shelves are children.

According to Feeding America,* food insecurity andhunger—in conjunction with poverty—can dramaticallyalter the architecture of children’s brains. This leaves thesechildren at higher risk for behavioral issues and socialdifficulties such as fighting, hyperactivity, aggression,

anxiety, mood swings, and bullying.

Donate just $5 and provide 6 meals.Drop off a check at the office or donate online at

www.mzion.organd/or

Leave nonperishable food & supply donations at theMount Zion Mitzvah Food Shelf bin by the front doors.

Questions about or ideas for helping the NeighborhoodHouse Food Shelves? Contact Jennifer Wall at

jwalleditor@hotmail.com or call 651-341-9467.

*feedingamerica.org/hunger-in-america/impact-of-hunger/child-development.aspx

Purim is coming!

Save the dates:

Purim for Adults Saturday, March 15, 7:00-10:00 p.m.

(13 years and older)

* * *

Purim for everyoneSunday, March 16, 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Service + Megillah Reading + Silliness + Carnival = FUN!

Hamantaschen Helpers Needed!"The time has come," the Rabbi said,"To talk of Purim things:Of dough–and fruit–and mitzvah fun–Of rolling pins–and chocolate.”(That Rabbi may not be great with rhymes, orthe Rabbi might really love our chocolateganache Hamantaschen filling!)

Yes, it is time to volunteer (you know you like to volunteer) for theMount Zion Community Hamantaschen Project, brought to youby Sisterhood and lots of other volunteers. This year there are sixWednesdays of dough and filling prep, and six Sundays to roll, fill,bake (and yes, sample.) No experience necessary!

The Wednesdays for filling and dough (all 3-6 or the pieceof it you can make):January 29; February 5,12,19, 26; March 5

The Sundays for baking (shifts are 9:30-12 and 12:30-3):February 2, 9, 16 (Bring-the-Kids Day!), 23; March 2, 9

Sigh up at goo.gl/dXocLK. Questions?wall_michael@hotmail.com or 763-433-1597 (work).

Attention Knitters and Crocheters!Sundays, January 5, 12, and 26 at 9:45 a.m.

You do not need to attend all sessions!

What: Making Healing Shawls for our Caring Community Program and warm hats for ProjectHome. What should I bring? We will supply yarn.If you have needles, please bring them. Who? Knit-ters and crocheters of all abilities who want to partic-

ipate in these fun, social, and rewarding projects. If you are abeginner, we can get you started. We hope you can join us. Questions? Betsy Rest (651) 578- 1587 or elberest@gmail.com.

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The “LOOK!” of Wisdom, or “Wisdom, Why Bother?”Commentary by Steve Silverman on Proverbs 8:1-5Look, wisdom calls out and understanding sends forth her voice... To you, gen-tle ones, I call; my voice is for all humankind. Simple ones, understand cun-ning. Fools, use your mind. -Proverbs 8:1,4-5

I wonder how stupid I am. Or naïve. Or foolish. Perhaps it’s all in how Isee myself in relation to the messages I receive. I see the word “Look” inthis passage as a directive, as in “Hey, LOOK, you idiot, pay attention!”Verse 4 starts with the phrase “To you, gentle ones”. Verse 5 goes on tosay,“Simple ones, understand cunning. Fools, use your mind.” For thecommentator Gersonides, this verse directs those who are simple to learnlogic.

Read together, these verses suggest I might be naïve, foolish, and simple.If I’m called names that insult me, why would I want learn the lessons? Re-call the story of the four sons in our Haggadah, and consider how an in-troductory name/salutation affects our reception of the subsequentmessage.

Like much of Proverbs, these verses intend to teach us the value of wisdomand understanding, and how they lead to an ethical life. Theassumption is that we start as uninformed human beings,much as soft clay before formed into magnificent earthen-ware. We are neither stupid nor fools but, rather, fully humanin outlook and approach. Our task as we continually evolveis to learn the lessons of wisdom and understand that move usever forward to lives of goodness.

“My new mantra, According to The Desultory Mystic” Commentary by Jonathan Eisenthal on Proverbs 8:12 “I, Wisdom, dwell in shrewdness (Ormah), and cunning knowledge I find.” -Proverbs 8:12I think I’ve found a new mantra. If Tanakh came with sound effects, thisverse would sound a magnificent, deeply resonating ‘Ormahhhhhhhhh.”The word “shrewdness” — ‘Ormah’ — is the same word used to describethe serpent in the garden of Eden.

Robert Alter writes of the word “Ormah”: “Such[positive] usage [here] fitsin with the pragmatic curriculum of Proverbs. Intelligence of the mostpractical sort, involving an alertness to potential deceptions and seduc-tions, is seen as an indispensable tool for the safe, satisfying, and ethical life,and a fool is repeatedly thought of as a dupe.”

I would add that the person most apt to fool us is the one we see in the mir-ror. The deepest wisdom is dealing shrewdly with our own hearts. An ex-ample is Nelson Mandela’s response to finally being liberated after 27 yearsof imprisonment:

“I felt hatred and fear, but I said to myself, ‘If you hate them when you getin that car you will still be their prisoner.’ I wanted to be free, and so I letit go. People can take everything from you. I lost my family, the chance tosee my children grow up, the best years of my life. They can take every-thing except your mind and your heart. Those things I decided not to giveaway ...”

It was a shrewd decision on Mandela’s part to turn away from anger.

The ultimate play in the Shrewd Wisdom playbook is Faith. Faith navi-gates past the hurts and disappointments of today, through the roiling sea

of emotions and existential questions, to a land that God will show us.The “shrewd” definition of faith: the rational suspension of rationality inorder to achieve what belief makes possible.

The Zohar teaches faith is the very reason we were created. In GenesisGod says: Na’aseh – [I shall] craft a human being (1:26) and in Exodus itsays Na’aseh -We will act, and we will understand. (Exodus 24:7)

Each of us, at the foot of Mount Sinai, spoke the words Na’aseh v’ Nishmah,because we are endowed by our Creator with this ultimate craftiness—toundertake the discipline of Wisdom, knowing that first we must act, andthen, when we reflect we will see the ultimate significance. And now, tobegin the day, I say ‘Ormahhhhhhhhh

A Mistake in the Text: Faithfully yoursCommentary by Sue Lund on Proverbs 8:16“Through me princes hold sway,and nobles, all the judges of earth. (Aretz)(Proverbs 8:16, translated according to Soncino)...and nobles, all the righteous judges (Tzedek).(Proverbs 8:16, translated according to the Masoretes)

I love my monthly Torah study with my friends. Everystudy is different; every time I walk away with a new in-sight, thought, life lesson. I feel better grounded bystudying the text and discussing it with friends. I wasshocked one day when it seemed we found a mistake inthe Tanach (Bible). Yes, a mistake in the Tanach. It wasmy turn to read the verse in Hebrew: Proverbs 8:16. Istruggled through the Hebrew words and was doingquite well, (so I thought), I got to the last word: Therewas an aleph a resh ,א and a tzadee ,ר I was pleased and .ץproud to discover that it was a word I recognized, Aretz!

And I even knew the English translation: LAND!

But Steve kept correcting me with each letter. An Alef? That’s not an alef,he said, that’s a tzadee .צ A reish? No – dalet ד... Well, the letters do looka bit alike, but I knew what I was reading. Still, Steve insisted the word was“Tzedek,” not “Aretz.” Since Steve knows more Hebrew, I acquiesced andwe laughed. It must be my glasses!

But then we compared our different texts and we saw that the Hebrewword that Steve had in his Hebrew text (according to the Masoretes) wasDIFFERENT from my word. In Steve’s Tanach, the Hebrew word wastzedek. In mine, it is aretz! I was NOT wrong! And then we learned thatin the Masoretic version, the scribe goofed. The scribe ended this versenot with the intended word (aretz), but with the same Hebrew word thatended the verse immediately above it—a typical copyist’s error. The edi-tors of my text, apparently decided to correct the word rather than use themistaken one that had become ‘traditional’ by the Masoretes.

So here is my wisdom for the day: First, I learned that I was right! Andmy Hebrew is not half-bad. And to trust my first instincts; holding trueto my beliefs. Lessons for the day about myself and the universe... Whatdid YOU learn today about yourself and humankind? Try study with apartner or two or with a community/Torah study group: it might helpyou to unlock the secrets of your soul.

TAKE HOLD OF TORAH - PANIM EL PANIMPartner-style Torah study: the ultimate in Panim el Panim

This monthly column features the reflections of a Mount Zion study group including Jonathan Eisenthal, Sue Lund, Bonnie Resnick, andSteve Silverman. This year they are studying Proverbs. Here are some reflections on Chapter 8.

Look, wisdomcalls out and

understandingsends forthher voice...

-Proverbs 8:1,4-5

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Mount Zion and JCRC Co-Sponsor

Israel’s SettlementsAn Israel Mini-Conference

Sunday, March 9, 10 a.m. - NoonContinuing a tradition of open and Informed dialogue about Israel in the Twin Cities’ Jewish Community.

2011 - (Re)Discover Israel Conference and Fair 2012 - Is a Two-State Solution Still Possible?2013 - Iran Conference: Is 2013 the Year of Decision for the US and Israel?2014 - Program TBD

Food for Thought Learn and Nosh before Shabbat Services

Friday, February 215:45 - 6:15 p.m. Gathering and a Light Nosh

6:15 - 7:15 p.m. Food for Thought DiscussionsDiscussion over wine, juice, and light appetizers. Child care available.

Brandeis and Dinard: A Curious CollaborationGuest Speaker: Deborah Bachrach

A discussion about the Minneapolis-St. Paul connection to the Bal-four Declaration of 1917. That particular connection was forged byRabbi Samuel N. Dinard of Temple Israel who organized localZionists in support of Louis D. Brandeis and the World ZionistOrganization in their efforts to found a homeland for the Jewishpeople and which ultimately resulted in the birth of Israel.

Deborah Bachrach is a historian, teacher and author.She received her Ph.D. from the University of Minnesotaand has taught at colleges in and out of the Twin Cities.She is the author of many books for young adults on a variety of topics including resistance to the Nazis duringWWII, the Inquisition and the Crimean War.

Becoming Wise: Finding the Sechel(Wisdom) in Caring for Others

Guest Speaker: Shelley Robbins

This program is part of Mount Zion's and the community's Jew-ish Disabilities Month, and is focused on the ways in which we canlearn, and even become wiser, from our caring for and working withpeople with disabilities. Naomi Levy, a rabbi and author of the bookHope Will Find You, chronicles her journey and the wisdom shegained along the way as parent to a daughter with a neurologicaldisease. In this session we'll talk about Jewish perspectives on car-ing for others, ways in which we can find wisdom in the unex-pected, and how to incorporate that wisdom into our lives.

Shelley Robbins, a Mount Zion member, works with lead-ers to help them find and use their wisdom to improve or-ganizations and create wiser ways of leading and working.Shelley is a Faculty Director in the School of Business atCapella University, where she leads the development andmanagement of online, competency-based educational programs inbusiness, leadership and human resource management.

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MAZALLIFE LONG LEARNING ONE STEP AT A TIME

Learning Liturgy:Understanding God and Ourselves though Prayer

Shabbat Morning Learners’ Services Led by our Rabbis

Saturdays, 10 a.m.January 18

What we learn about God and ourselves in the Avot v’Imahot.

(This is the first prayer in the Amidah or “Central Prayers”–Itmeans “God of our Forefathers and Foremothers”.)

February 1What we learn about God and

ourselves in the Gevurot.(This is the second prayer in the Amidah or “Central Prayers”–It means “Powers” referring to God’s power in the universe and

our lives.)

February 15What we learn about God and

ourselves in the Kedushah.(This is the third prayer in the Amidah or “Central Prayers”–Itmeans “Holiness” referring to God’s uniqueness and sanctity.)

An Israel Book DiscussionThe 188th Crybaby Brigade

By Joel ChasnoffMonday, January 6, 7 p.m.

in the Mount Zion Library

Join Charles Fodor and Jonathan Eisenthal aswell as members of Mount Zion’s Israel com-mittee for an engaging conversation about Is-raeli life through its literature. Questions:Contact Charles at CSFodor@aol.com orJonathan at jkeisenthal@comcast.net.

Building a Jewish Home,Creating a Jewish Family

Rabbi Adam Stock SpilkerMondays, February 3, 24, March 10, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

$36 members/$50 public per person

A guided discussion for couples (same faith and interfaith) explor-ing Jewish holidays, education, ethics and more.

What does it mean to have a “Jewish” home?This three-part class is for couples, at what-ever stage of relationship -- whether same-faith or interfaith – who want an open andstructured way to reflect. The emphasis ofthe class will be on each couple making thechoices that are right for them after studyand discussion on key questions of Jewishlife. Examples: What Jewish values will weemphasize? What books and periodicals andart will be in our home? What rituals will we incorporate? What willShabbat look like in our home?

CremationWeds, Jan. 8, 7:30 - 9:00 p.m.What do Jews believe aboutwhat happens to our bodies?

Last of the four-part series:

ReformWhat Do ^ Jews Believe?Judaism Beyond the Basics Taught by Rabbi Adam Stock SpilkerWhat we believe, from our theology to our values, impacts what we doevery day. In these classes we will look at the origins of personal choice inJudaism including its limits. We will look at three examples of choices whereJudaism may influence our decisions. Regardless of your own choices, youwill leave these classes better informed.

All are welcome regardless of level of Jewish knowledge. Hebrew texts willbe used in part but will be fully translated. Talmudic texts will be used ineach session along with Reform Jewish statements and response (rabbinic,scholarly answers to contemporary issues and questions). These classes areopen to the public. Each session is a stand-alone class, but themes willemerge from attending all of them.

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Building a Singing Community

A Twin Cities’ Community-Wide day-long workshop for all interested in Jewish prayer. With Joey Weisenberg,voted by The Jewish Week of NewYork as one of the “36 outstandingleaders under 36”.

Sunday, March 2, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.at Beth Jacob (1179 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights

($18 for students and seniors; $36 for everyone else).

“I will devour them like a lion” says God: The Many Faces of God in the Hebrew Bible

Hanne Løland Levinson, University of MinnesotaWednesday, March 5, 7:30 p.m. at Mount Zion Temple

The Hebrew Bible and the Jewish tradition stronglyargue that God should not be depicted in any form. Atthe same time, the Hebrew Bible is full of images forGod. God is father, mother, and leopard, among others.The Hebrew Bible also draws on many diverse and chal-lenging metaphors for God. Hanne Løland Levinson ex-plores the diverse “god-language” of the Hebrew Bible

and reflects on the connection between language for God and concepts ofGod.

Hanne Løland Levinson is assistant professor of Classical and Near Eastern stud-ies at the University of Minnesota, where she is also affiliated with the Centerfor Jewish Studies. She is the author of Silent or Salient Gender? The Inter-pretation of Gendered God-Language in the Hebrew Bible, Exemplified in Isa-iah 42, 46, and 49. The book was awarded the John Templeton Award forTheological Promise in 2008.

Co-sponsors: Department of Classical and Near Eastern Studies; Mount Zion Temple

MAZALLIFE LONG LEARNING ONE STEP AT A TIME

Hebrew Reading PracticePut your knowledge of the aleph-bet to work!Practice letter and word recognition, read excerpts fromliturgy and other texts aloud, gain some basic knowledgeof Hebrew structure and liturgical vocabulary. Open toanyone with acquaintance with the Hebrew letters.

Pick one:Sundays, February 2 – March 16, 9:45 - 11:00 a.m.Wednesdays, February 5 – March 12, 4:30 - 6:00 p.m.Minimum five students for each classTaught by Siana GoodwinCost: $60 non-members, $45 members

Engage! An evening of Jewish Learning

Sat., Feb. 8, 7:00 p.m.Talmd Torah of St. Paul

(768 Hamline Ave )

Join the company of great teachers and conversation for this not to be missed eveningof adult learning! Co-sponsored by Talmud Torah ofSt. Paul and the St. Paul JCC.

Mount Zion Temple’s World-famous architectis featured in a new film:

Incessant VisionsThe life of Erich Mendelsohn

Lecture by Dr. Marilyn J. Chiat follows 70 min film.at Mount Zion

Marilyn Chiat is a nationally known scholar of religious architecture. She is the author of America's Religious Architecture: Sacred Places for Every Community andThe Handbook of Synagogue Architecture published aspart of Brown University’s Post Biblical Judaica Series edited by Jacob Neusner.

About the film: This award-win-ning creative homage, illuminatesthe life of German Jewish Ex-pressionist architect ErichMendelsohn. The visionaryMendelsohn, produced worksthat have influenced generationsof architects. His story unfoldsthrough the letter exchange withLouise, a beautiful young cellist ,who became his wife. The direc-tor, Duki Dror, gently breatheslife into the correspondence oftwo passionate artists who helpedeach other weather a turbulenttime in history. Mendelsohn’s ca-

reer followed the jagged trajectory of many German Jewish émigrésfleeing Nazism; he worked in England, Israel and finally, in the USA.Mendelsohn’s drawings pulsate with energy and his buildings are stun-ning. His earlier work, the Einstein Tower, is one of the most impor-tant exemplars of modern architecture.

Re-Scheduled Date!Sunday, March 2, 10:00 a.m. - Noon

February is Jewish Disability Awareness Month (JDAM)

JDAM is a nation-wide initiative to raise awarenessand promote meaningful inclusion of people withdisabilities and their families in all aspects of Jewishlife. “The goal of Jewish Disability AwarenessMonth is to shift our attitudes to see that

having a disability is part of the human condition—and to seethat humanity in each person we meet.” - Shelly Christensen, Program Manager, Minneapolis Jewish Community Inclusion Program

JDAM events at Mount Zion:Food For Thought, Friday, February 21:

Finding Sechel/Wisdom to Support Those With Special Needs, inspired by the JDAM Book Selection: Hope Will Find You,by Naomi Levy. Presented by Shelly Robbins

Listening to Others’ Stories—DVD and Discussion NightsMonday, February, 10, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. The Temple Grandin MovieTuesday, February, 18, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Front of the Class

Reading RoomThere are books for adults and children are on special display in theMount Zion library. To see a list of suggested reading, go towww.mzion.org under the “News” section on the homepage. To learn more about Twin Cities and National JDAM events go to theJewish Disability Awareness Month Facebook page.

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Resources Available at Mount ZionHearing Accessibility

ASL Interpreters are available on an “as needed” basis. Contact LarrySolomon at least 48 hours in advance. Volunteer Contact for HearingAccessibility: Joan Ostrove (ostrove@macalester.edu)Headsets are available during services and Sanctuary programs forthose with hearing impairments.

Physical AccessibilityBathroom There is an accessible bathroom located in the hallwaynear the kitchen.Parking is available in the lot behind the kitchen (enter from thealley) and on Summit Avenue in front of the building. During theHigh Holy Days the entire back lot is dedicated to accessible parking.If you need assistance getting into the building from your car contactLarry Solomon in advance, or have someone locate an usher or greeter. Seating if you require seating close to the Bima in the sanctuary dur-ing services please contact Larry Solomon in advance. Our sanctuaryis designed with flexible seating to accommodate wheelchairs.

Vision AccessibilityLarge Print Mishkah T’fillah Prayerbooks (Friday Night Service)these prayer books are located on the outside of the cart with theprayerbooks. By September 2014 we hope to have other prayerbooksenlarged and available.Large Print Birkat Hamazon Copies are available upon request. Reading Glasses are available at the prayer book cart during services.

Sensory AccessibilityScents many people today are allergic to a variety of scents, like per-fumes, hair products and flowers. Please refrain from wearing scentsto the synagogue. Harris Chapel/Sisterhood Lounge offers close-circuit televisionbroadcast of services for people with small children, or for anyonewho would be more comfortable there. Children must be supervised,and toys are available.Food Allergies If you are providing food for an Oneg or Kiddushconsider offering a gluten-, dairy-, or nut-free item. Ask Mavis Gold-stein or other staff if you have questions.

Educational AccessibilityKULAM We believe that ALL Jewish children have the right to aquality Jewish education. In Hebrew “Kulam” means “everyone,”and it is an acronym for “Kids Understanding and Learning at MountZion.” For more information about this inclusion program contactDana Prottas (grades K-6) or Ana Apter (grades 7-12).

General SupportCaring Community provides a helping hand when you need it, suchas prepared meals, rides or visitors. Contact the clergy or Judi Marshall at 651-698-3881.

Accessibility/Inclusion at Mount ZionIn 2012 the Board of Directors initiated a task force to assess and im-prove Mount Zion’s accessibility. We continue to implement the taskforce’s recommendations to ensure that our vibrant Jewish spiritualhome is truly welcoming to all.

The task force explored whether some congregants decide stay at homebecause it’s just too hard to attend services or an event. People such assomeone who uses a wheelchair or walker, or has trouble hearing orseeing, parents whose children can’t sit still through a service, or evensomeone who is very shy.

Mount Zion has a strong foundation of to accessibility inclusion uponwhich we continue to build. Our clergy, staff and congregants embodywelcoming and inclusive attitudes. There are long standing programslike KULAM which provides inclusive support for children in the Re-ligious School, and Caring Community which offers meals, rides andsupport to congregants who need them for any reason.

If you have an accessibility/inclusion need or idea contact Larry Solomonat lsolomon@mzion.org or 651-698-3881 or Allyson Perling at aperling@gmail.com or 651-335-2452.

D’var Torah: Examining (Dis)AbilityThrough a Jewish Lens

Presented by Allyson PerlingFriday, February 21 during 7:30 p.m. services

Allyson Perling is the Accessibility Inclusion Coordinator for Mount Zion. Allyson’s personal journey as a parent of children with special needsand her professional experience assessing organi-zations’ attitudes towards inclusion make her theperfect person for the job.

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TEEN AND YOUTH ACTIVITIESChai School

(7th-12th Grade)

7th Graders

Sacred Choices ShabbatonFriday, January 31 - Sunday February 2Sign-up at mzion.nirsham.com.

Make-up Sacred Choices Parent/Guardian Information SessionSunday, January 12, 10:00 a.m. -12:15 p.m.

8-9th Graders Tri II Electives Our 8th/9th graders are taking:

Do Not Place a Stumbling BlockSarah May

From Dylan to Drake: Judaism’s Influence on Modern MusicDavid Milavetz

Law & Order: the TorahRona Goldstein

Everything You Wanted to Know (and don’t!) about IsraelRis Arbel (St. Paul Shlicha)

11/12th Graders

Discovering Independence: Programs for 11 & 12th Grade Young Jewish AdultsFREE!

Karting & Karrying Sunday, January 26, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. at ProKart Indoor Racing

From Rocks to RichesSunday, March 9, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. at Vertical Endeavors

Bowling for HillelSunday, April 6, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. at Midway Pro Bowl

Sign-up at mzion.nirsham.com.

Noar Tzion(4-6th Grade Youth Group)

Save the dates for upcoming programming!

Sunday, January 12Getting Down and Dirty – a Tu BiSh’vat Program

Sunday, February 23 “Jewish Chicks Rock” program with Naomi Less

“Jewish Dudes Discover” program with Sam Petersen-Perlman

JYG(7-8th Grade Youth Group)

Snow Tubing!Sunday, January 19, Time TBD

Join JYG 7th and 8th graders from across the Twin Cities for an after-noon of winter fun at Buck Hill! We will have lunch and bus after reli-gious school. Don't miss out, we're going to have SNOW MUCHFUN! Contact Liza Mole, sportyadvisor@mzion.org with questions.RSVP at mzion.nirsham.com.

JYG KallahSave the Date: Friday, February 28 - Sunday, March 2

SPORTY News and Events

From Here to Timbuktu: What it means to be a JewSPORTY-led Shabbat Service and Lock-inFriday, January 10, 7:30 p.m.There will be Jewish music from around the world, Shir Chantsparticipation, a D'var Torah from SPORTY's RCVP, Jeremy Lund,and teen participation throughout.

SPORTY Board MeetingsAll Meetings are Wed. from 7:15-8:30 p.m.January 8, 15, 22, 29; February 5, 12, 19, 26

The Real Reel Jews in the Movies Presents:The King’s SpeechSaturday, January 11, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. at Mount ZionSee page 6 for more details.

Thanksgivvukah Cooking!

Torah & TevaShabbaton

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RELIGIOUS SCHOOL NEWSUpcoming Events

Sunday, January 5First day back after Winter Break6th Grade D’var Torah Workshop (either 9:30 or 11:00 during Judaic Studies session)

Wednesday, January 15Tu BiSh’vat Seders during Hebrew classes

Sunday, February 19No School, MLK, Jr. Weekend

Friday – Saturday, January 24-254th Grade Community Shabbaton at Beth Jacob

Sunday, January 262nd Grade Joy of Hebrew Program (parents/guardians with students)

Sunday, February 2Parent/Guardian Learning Session, 9:45-10:45 a.m.

Friday-Saturday, February 7-8Third Grade Shabbaton

Sunday, February 96th Grade Tallit Workshop, 9:30-1:00 p.m.

Sunday, February 16 No School Presidents’ Day Weekend

Sunday, February 236th Grade Tallit Make-up Day, 12:15-2:00 p.m.Z. Willard Finberg Congregation Education Day (see p. 15)

Friday, March 2Congregational Shabbat Dinner, 2nd Grade Participates

Don’t Miss This!Parent/Guardian Learning Session

ReformWhat Do ^ Jews Believe?Judaism Beyond the Basics

Rabbi Adam Stock SpilkerSunday, February 2, 9:45 -10:45 a.m.

Grounding the conversation in the Talmud and documents of the Reform movement from 1885 tothe present, Rabbi Spilker will address this large ques-tion of belief. Mostly, it will be an opportunity tolearn in an informal setting, get to know other peo-ple at the congregation, and ask questions you have.We will also touch on some of the topics raised inthe four-part Fall series

SCHOOL CLOSING DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHERPlease tune to WCCO for Hebrew and Religious School closings(WCCO AM Radio 830, WCCO TV Channel 4,www.WCCO.com)

Snow cancellations will also be posted on the Mount Zionhome page, www.mzion.org or on the Religious SchoolFacebook page. Cancellation decisions will be made by: 1:30p.m. for Wednesday Session I, 4:30 p.m. for WednesdaySession II, 8:00 a.m. for Sunday Session

Tu BiSh’vat

We will be celebrating Tu BiSh’vat as a Religious School community onWednesday evening, January 15. Tu BiSh’vat seders will be taking placeduring regularly scheduled Hebrew school classes. Parents/Guardianswho wish to join their children are welcome!

First session Hebrew schedule:4:30-4:45 Hebrew classrooms 4:45-5:45 Tu BiSh’vat seder in Johnson Social Hall5:45-6:00 Hebrew classroomsSecond session Hebrew schedule:5:45-6:00 Hebrew classrooms 6:15-7:15 Tu BiSh’vat seder in Johnson Social Hall

4th Grade ShabbatonStudents spent time together withtheir parents/guardians learning

about God

Rabbi Spilker Visits Classrooms

6th Graders Studying Torah

PreK & Kindergarten Bake Challah

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Serve on Mount Zion’s Board of Directors!“Pick from each of your tribes (those) who are wise, discerning, and experienced,

and I will appoint them as your heads.” – Deuteronomy 1:13

The Nominating Committee will be meeting on Sunday, January 26 forthe purpose of selecting candidates to serve as Directors for the new fis-cal year beginning June 1. If you have an interest in serving on the Boardor if you wish to suggest another member for the committee’s consider-ation, please provide this information to me by Friday, January 31:

Ellen Konstan

828 Summit Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55105-3354

ellen.konstan@gmail.com or 651-698-5754

Please include the person’s name and the reasons for your recommendation. Call me with any questions. Individuals are most oftenconsidered for selection to the Board on the basis of the following:

A prior record of committee service

An interest and participation in congregational activities

Demonstrated leadership abilities

An ability to see beyond one’s own “constituency” and workbroadly for the benefit of the entire congregation

A commitment to attend meetings, serve on committees, and to bea constructive member of the group process, including a willingnessand ability to accept Board responsibilities

Specific talents and abilities that may benefit the congregation

Good judgment, skills and experiences in business, professional,or communal life

Achievements in the community at large

A dedication to Jewish knowledge and service to the Jewish community

A member in good standing

Must be Jewish

Thank you! Ellen Konstan, Nominating Committee Convener

Z. Willard Finberg Congregation Education DayJoin us for Intergenerational Learning with Dynamic

Musical Performer, Worship Leader, Educator

Naomi LessSunday, February 23

Naomi Less engages, enlightens and empowers communities with live con-certs, spiritually- uplifting creative worship and experiential workshops. Jointogether with Naomi as she enhances our experience of prayer and spiritual-ity through engaging and interactive workshops and Tefilah (worship). Thiswill be a magical experience you will not want to miss!

Schedule for the Day:7:45-9:00 a.m.Naomi visits our staff for Faculty Learning

9:00-9:30 a.m.Naomi teaches and sings with Shir Tzion

12:30-2:00 p.m.“The Real Me” (girls grades 4+)

3:00-5:00 p.m.Guitar Corps

To learn more about Naomi or hear samples ofher music, go to:

www.naomiless.com

For All Adults9:30-11:30 a.m.Intergenerational workshops on prayer and spirituality

11:30-12:15 p.m.Naomi leads Intergenerational Tefillah

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THANK YOU...FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONSMinnesota Nurses AssociationRaline PaperJames PatnodeGary & Joyce RifkindBernice RostenBob & Ilona RoudaStacy RubsamLaurie & Connell SaltzmanEllen SampsonMartin & Sheila SchumanEmily SeeselSEIU State CouncilEstelle SellMarilyn SilverLiz SteinMary Ann & David WarkSandy & Carol WeisbergBarbara & Honnen Weiss

Merrill KullerEmily Seesel

Rya Terry LeedsIrvin Liener

Rita GrossmanErnest Naiditch

Barbara & Honnen WeissIn Honor of the Wedding of:Bradley & Susan Winthrop

Henry & Janice SnyderIn Honor of the Anniversaryof:Carol & David Epstein

Sybil KatzIn Honor of Receiving the Sidney Barrows Lifetime Commitment Award to:Ellen Sampson

Rita GrossmanConnie & Paul RossSally Silk & Thomas Wolfe

In Honor of the Bat Mitzvahof:Mira Zelle

Sue & Stan LeonardIn Honor of the Bar Mitzvahof: Maxwell Winthrop

Sue & Stan LeonardDonations:AnonymousSiana GoodwinWalter SchwarzShirley KulevskyMonday Bridge ClubMarilyn Silver

MOUNT ZION CEMETERY

MAINTENANCE & PERPETUAL CARE

FUND

In Yahrzeit Memory of:Cora BaerJerome Ben BaerIda Braman

Barbara Braman BentsonAllen BrandLois Brand

Steve & Gail BrandSara Spilker Brody

Bert & Arlene SpilkerJulius GreenspoonSaul Greenspoon

Steve & Gail BrandBert Hoffman

Jan HoffmanMarian Levey

Steve Levey

Beatrice WickSteve & Susan Levey

In Honor of:Sheila Schuman

Dorothy Lipschultz

ELSA BRONSTIEN MEMORIAL

FUND

In Memory of:Maxine Applebaum

Judy & Bevan Marvy

BROTHERHOODFUND

In Yahrzeit Memory of:Ruth J. Sogin

Daniel Sogin & Family

CARING COMMUNITYFUND

In Honor of the Anniversary of:Doreen & Marvin Greenblatt

Jerry AdlerIn Memory of:Rya Terry Leeds

Betsy Rest & Mike BanderIn Appreciation of:Stuart AppelbaumBill KeatsSean KeatsNancy Mason HauserDennis Morley

Judi Levin Marshall

EDELSTEIN FAMILY BIBLICAL GARDEN

FUND

In Yahrzeit Memory of:Elynor Edelstein

Tom Edelstein

IRENE FINBERG CAMPFUND

In Memory of:Neil Blum’s FatherBevery & Gary Tinney’s Uncle

Mayda & Marc RaffeBetsy Rest & Mike Bander

Z. WILLARD FINBERGCED DAY FUND

In Memory of:Maxine ApplebaumEd DevittMerrill Kuller

Dee Dee & Dick Harris

FUND FOR MOUNTZION

In Honor of:The B’nei Mitzvah of Grandfather &Grandson - Bill & Lane Lipschultz

Betsy Rest & Mike BanderIn Honor of the Engagement of:Yael Silverman

Mary Ann & David WarkIn Memory of:Maxine ApplebaumRya Terry LeedsErnest Naiditch

Mary Ann & David WarkIn Honor of Receiving the Sidney Barrows Lifetime Commitment Award to:Ellen Sampson

Mary Ann & David Wark

RABBIS’DISCRETIONARY FUND

In Yahrzeit Memory of:Martijn Hermse

Susan SchaeferIn Memory of:Maxine Applebaum

Norman, Kim, Natalie & Seth Abramson

Karen & Irving KatzBrian & Judith KrasnowMischa & Barbara PennJerry Portnoy & Nancy

SchapiroJo Ellen & Stan RobinsGail & Joel TilsnerMrs. Len WeinbergSusan Winthrop

Concepcion Arola CastilloDaniel Sogin & Emily Duke

Robert KatzThe Family of Robert Katz

Bruce KeyworthJames & Sally Beloff

Rya Terry LeedsPam Leeds-Ragborg

Irvin LienerSally LienerWendy Quammen & Family

Lillian MargolisEllen and Martin Sampson

In Honor of the Naming of: Milo Carlson

Suzanne & Ryan CarlsonIn Appreciation of:The High Holy Day Services

Connie & Paul RossDonation:Haney FamilyAaron MackMichelle Wernimont

CANTORS’DISCRETIONARY FUND

In Memory of:Robert Katz

The Family of Robert KatzIn Honor of:Cantor Rachel Stock Spilker

Betsy Rest & Mike BanderAlison & Andrew Mellin

In Honor of the Wedding of:Erin Stein Chortek & StevenChortek

Erin Stein Chortek & Steven Chortek

In Honor and Appreciation of:Cantor Rachel Stock SpilkerCantor Jennifer Strauss-Klein

Victor Vital

BLOOM LIBRARY FUND

In Memory of:Maxine Applebaum

Bette Ann & Richard BloomLouis & Nancy Melamed

Beverly LevineSteve, Susan, Rebecca & Sam

LeveyIn Yahrzeit Memory of:Marian Levey

Steve LeveyBen A. Rubinstein

Sally & Mitch RubinsteinRobert Spector

Batya Spector

HARRIS CHAPEL

In Yahrzeit Memory of:William HarrisBob Jendra

Mary Ann & David Wark

JIM & NANCY HARRISLEADERSHIP

ENDOWMENT FUND

In Yahrzeit Memory of:David Paper

Natalie & Bud Harris

YALE & SARA JOHNSON MEMORIAL

FUND

In Memory of:Edward DevittMargie FreemanSidney GoodmanMerrill KullerMyron KuninEdward Pritzker

Gloria & Lynn JohnsonMaxine Applebaum

Elaine & Michael Johnson & Family

Gloria & Lynn JohnsonIn Honor of the Special Birthday of:Sylvia KaplanHess KlineRenee KlineNatalie SaxonLeslee Shapiro

Gloria & Lynn JohnsonIn Honor of the Engagement of:Drew Levin

Gloria & Lynn JohnsonIn Honor of the Anniversary of:Mr. & Mrs. Ron Saxon

Gloria & Lynn JohnsonIn Honor of a Speedy Recovery:John MastAnn Phillips

Gloria & Lynn Johnson

JULIE LAZOR CONFIRMATION FUND

In Memory of:Maxine ApplebaumConcepcion Arzola CastilloBob Katz

Toba LazorMort Lazor

Peggy KippLeslie Martin & Fred Haeusler

Rya Terry LeedsToba Lazor

In Yahrzeit Memory of:Bessie LazorGladys Rich

Toba Lazor

ANNETTE & JAMESLEVINE CHOIR FUND

In Yahrzeit Memory of:Katherine Mack

Leigh & Harvey CohenMargery Weisman

Irwin Weisman

M & S MANDEL MUSICFUND

In Yahrzeit Memory of:Stella Mandel

Roxy LernerJane Steinman

Jessica SteinmanDr. Raphael Weisberg

Roxy Lerner

MITZVAH FOODSHELF FUND

In Yahrzeit Memory of:Robert Applebaum

Judy & Peter WolfCharles F. BiermanIrene B. Bierman

Judy KatzAllen BrandLois Brand

Steve & Gail BrandClare Breitman

Rolla BreitmanMary Gittleman

Lois & Bud SeltzerJulius GreenspoonSaul Greenspoon

Steve & Gail BrandBen Karon

Beverly Bunin-GillmanScott BuninLois & Bud Seltzer

Gerald D. KatzGertrude C. Katz

Judy KatzDonald Mark

Louise MarkHelen Seltzer

Lois & Bud SeltzerLisa Stransky

Walter SchwarzMary Weissman

Anne StarrIn Memory of:Maxine Applebaum

Rita GrossmanChelle & Leon KatzSue & Stan LeonardJoanie & Alan LeveyBill LipschultzEmily SeeselBarbara & Honnen Weiss

Concepcion Arzola CastilloMary Ann & David WarkSandy & Carol Weisberg

Edward DevittEmily Seesel

Roz FleisherRaline Paper

Edith GrossmanDick Cohen

Robert “Bob” KatzDavid & Joyce AbramsonBetsy Rest & Mike BanderDavid & Rosalind BloomLeigh & Harvey CohenBarbara & Jack ElliottLarry & Marilyn FriedmanRita GrossmanIra & Peggy KippRoxy LernerDaniel & Susan LeveyMarty & Gloria LivingstonEdward MarksLeslie Martin & Fred

Haeusler

17

CONTRIBUTIONS BROTHERHOODShalom Friends,

Winter has arrived and we are making plans for several activities!

Our January business meeting, to which all Mount Zion gentlemen areinvited, will take place on Monday January 13, 6:00 p.m., at Tavernon Grand (656 Grand Ave). Contact Richard to RSVP if you will joinus for light dinner, discussion, and planning for our 2014 events.

Friday, March 7, 5:00 p.m., Brotherhood sponsored Shabbat dinner. Brotherhood members and their families are encouraged to at-tend

Friday, March 21 - Brotherhood Shabbat and presentation of theMensch Award. This Shabbat will feature readers and a choir from theBrotherhood. Please contact Richard Newmark if you are willing tohelp plan, read, or make a brief presentation at this service. ContactBrian Serle (bkserle@yahoo.com) or Eric Lund (eric@thelundfam-ily.net) to join the Brotherhood choir.

Friday May 2 - Sunday May 4: Hold this weekend for the 3rd Men’sRetreat at the fabulous Cedar Valley Resort near Lanesboro. We haveadded additional rooms at the Resort to increase lodging options in-cluding some single rooms. If you would like to help plan activities,please contact Daniel Sogin at daniel.sogin.1@comcast.net. This com-mittee will meet in January to start planning this year’s event. Last year’svery successful retreat, attended by 28 members, included recreationalactivities (bicycling and tours of Lanesboro), discussions, Torah study,singing, services, and excellent food prepared by Brotherhood mem-bers.

Bagel Sales are proceeding led by Arnie Krohn. A schedule of availabledates in 2014 was sent to many Brotherhood members recently. Pleasesign up for a shift or two to enable us to continue with mitzvah, orcome any Sunday between 8:30 and 10:00 for training and to see thenew Brotherhood Wi-Fi cafe. Sales and dues support our activities fromproviding “On the Doorposts of Your House” to new Bar/Bat Mitzvahstudents to supporting our many activities at the Temple from the base-ball events in the summer to supporting the Purim and the Mother’sDay brunch in the spring. Volunteers are also needed to help with pub-licity, membership, and mailings to those not on e-mail, and events. Ifyou can help, please e-mail or call Richard Newmark.

B’Shalom

Richard Newmark, Brotherhood President (ranewmark@yahoo.com or 651-340-3487)

Getting Well and Being Healthy in MinnesotaReform of Health Care after we all have InsuranceComments by Jeff Schiff Sunday January 12, 9:45 a.m. at Mount Zion

All congregants (men and women) are invited to our Brotherhoodsponsored complimentary brunch. Dr. Jeff Schiff will discuss the Af-fordable Care Act and other national and state legislation designed toimprove health care and lower costs. Come to get some perspectiveon these efforts, where we are going, what is the potential for in-volvement from our community and to give your input. Jeff serves asthe medical director for Minnesota Health Care Programs at theMinnesota Department of Human Services. He is the vice chair ofthe national Medicaid Medical Director’s Network.

Eva HoradeskyLenore Hauser

Michael HorniakDale Horniak

Robert KingJean King/Stuart Appelbaum

Sidney LaskinRosalind Laskin

Edith LattsBonnie & Herb Buchbinder &

FamilyMitzi & Terry Kane & Family

Floyd “Ed” LerewYvonne Lerew

Ruth LipschultzSam Lipschultz

Bill LipschultzRussell Lyksett

Sandra LyksettFlorence MacCallum KingJudge Neil MacCallum

Jean King/Stuart Appelbaum Hirschel Martin

Leslie Martin & Fred Haeusler

Max MillerMark, Deanna, Keaton &

Kylie MillerHans Nauen

Charlie Nauen & P.J. PofahlJoel Oppeneheimer

Ann OppenheimerThelma Ostrowsky

Stuart Block & Julia Ostrowsky

Ethel PellySusanne & Natalie Spitzer

Sharon PlotnickMark, Deanna, Keaton &

Kylie MillerRobert Pofahl

P.J. PofahlIsabelle RosoffJudy Rosoff

Stewart RosoffArnold Rubenstein

Bob RubensteinCharles SansbyHarry Sansby

Jerry SansbyDavid Sarbach

Barbara SarbachSara Shumakher

Maya & Simon AbramovichDorothy Smith

Michael SmithLisa Stransky

Walter SchwarzSam SwartzSelma Swartz

James SwartzAlice Tousman

Mitzi & Rich GramlingLeah Warren

Mitzi KaneBonnie Buchbinder

Ann WienerSandy & Ed Abramson

Dorothy WitkinMichael Witkin

Suzanne WolfeThomas Wolfe & Sally Silk

Bob WolfsonDeDe Wolfson

Ed PickettEd Pickett

Cornelia PropperEdith Calin

Freda SansbyJerry Sansby

Morton ShapiroJoan Shapiro

Eleanor TilsnerRalph Burstein

Fannie TintnerJames Tintner

Beatrice WickSteve & Susan Levey

MUZICA FUND

Donation:Anonymous

PARENT & TOT FUND

In Yahrzeit Memory of:Judith Chauss

Michael & Stephanie ChaussDonation:Brian Borre

SHIR TZION CHILDREN’S CHOIR

FUND

In Yahrzeit Memory of:Joel Oppenheimer

The Oppenheimer Family

SISTERHOOD LEADERSHIP FUND

In Memory of:Maxine Applebaum

Raline PaperRobert “Bob” Katz

Harvey & Leigh CohenPearl Rosen

TORAH RESTORATIONFUND

Donation:Allyson Perling & Glenn Hardin

YAHRZEIT FUND

In Yahrzeit Memory of:Ruth Andersen

LoRene LeikindLisa Rose Appelbaum

Jean King/Stuart AppelbaumRobert Applebaum

Shari ApplebaumMorris Bandersky

Weinstein FamilyMiriam Benowitz

Betty MarzMichael Bernstein

Rosalind LaskinDr. Bernard Block

Stuart Block & Julia Ostrowsky

Sara Spilker BrodyBert & Arlene Spilker

Dorothy FinckMirriam & Art Thell

Linda GordonStuart Block &

Julia OstrowskyAllen Ginsberg Gray

David GrayHoward S. Harris

Alan HarrisGustave Hirshberg

Marjorie B. Edwards

18

T z e d e k = J u s t i c e

SOCIAL ACTION UPDATE

MZ Tzedek Book Discussion How Jews Became White Folks & What That Says about Race in America by Karen BrodkinMon., Jan. 6 & 27, 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.All are welcome!

Join a group of people from Mount Zion's Tzedek Committee asthey gather to discuss Karen Brodkin's important reflection uponand analysis of race and Jewish-ness in the United States. You mayhave been one of the people who were part of a Mount Zion bookgroup a number of years ago who read this same book: if interested,your insights and experiences would be welcomed! Thanks to a gen-erous anonymous donor, there are a number of free copies of thebook available. If you are interested, contact Rabbi Spilker. Allgatherings are in the Johnson Fireside Lounge (2nd floor).

SISTERHOOD

MIRIAM’S WELLSisterhood’s Judaica Shop News

Thank You to all our Volunteers for Chanukah Mart!Miriam’s Well, Mount Zion Sisterhood Gift Shop, is a volunteeredrun store that provides our congregation with Judaica and specialtyitems. Because we are volunteer run, we depend on volunteers tokeep servicing our fellow congregants, our customers. We are look-ing for volunteers to keep our doors open.

We have 4 shifts:During the School Year (September - May)Sunday, 9:20 a.m.-12:20 p.m.Wednesday: 4:30-5:45 p.m. (early shift) & 5:45-7:15 p.m. (late shift)

Year Round:Friday: ½ hour before services.

We provide training for any computer literate adult. Benefits includea 15% discount at the shop, an end of the year brunch, and knowingyou are helping to keep our doors open. Please contact Sheri Frisqueat 651-270-3352, SheriFrisque@yahoo.com or Ruth Garner at 651-278-9596 ruthsg1966@comcast.com.

Sisterhood CalendarJanuary 5 Board MeetingJanuary 24-25 Our Bodies Our SoulsFebruary 2 Sisterhood Board MeetingFebruary Hamentaschen Baking & SalesFebruary 18 Wine & WisdomFebruary 25 Women’s Networking GroupMarch 2 Sisterhood Board MeetingMarch 9 Passover Market Set UpMarch 14 Sisterhood Shabbat

Spend Some Quality Time at Neighborhood House this Winter!

Neighborhood House, a multi-cultural social service agency on St.Paul's historic West Side, would love to welcome Mount Zion volun-teers (teens and adults) to work with the immigrants, refugees, andother residents served by Neighborhood House in the following areas:

Children's Activity Assistant: Help coordinate games, crafts, read-ing and other early learning activities for children ages 1-4 years whiletheir parents are attending English or GED classes. Minimum com-mitment is 2.5 hours/week for 10 weeks. Opportunities available Mon-day through Thursday nights, 6-8:45 p.m.

One-on-one Tutors: Work with students in grades K-12 in a varietyof subject areas, especially elementary/middle-school math, in one hourtutoring sessions. Opportunities available Monday through Thursdayafternoons, 3-6 p.m.

Contact Anders Ringdahl-Mayland (Volunteer Coordinator) at AR-Mayland@neighb.org or 651-789-2524. For general informationabout volunteering at Neighborhood House, contact Mount Zionmember P.J. Pofahl at pjpofahl@comcast.net or 651-646-2217.

Save the Dates!

Wine and WisdomTuesday, February 18, 7:00 p.m. at Mount Zion

Plan to join us and enjoy an evening learningabout (and tasting) wine and sharing wisdom.Details to come. Sponsored by Sisterhood.

Women’s Professional Networking GroupTuesday, February 25, 7:00 p.m. at Mount Zion

Learn the seven factors that will makeyou the person of choice for others towork with in any business. The speakerwill be Jeannette Grace, MA, owner ofExpressive! Business Training & Speak-ing, is a training and development expert,www.expressivetraining.com. Sponsoredby the Sisterhoods of Mount Zion, TempleIsrael and Bet Shalom.

Bread and Torah with Religious School StudentsDuring November, the Religious School collects and makes holidaybags for the families at one of our partner organizations, JeremiahProgram. This year we assembled over 80 holiday bags, collected 50mops/brooms, and donated over $1,000 in grocery gift cards. A spe-cial thank you to all of our families and volunteers for their help onthis day. Way to go, Mount Zion Religious School

INSIDE

Mount Zion Temple1300 Summit AvenueSaint Paul, MN 55105

Address Service Requested

Rabbi Adam Stock SpilkerRabbi Esther AdlerCantor Rachel Stock SpilkerCantor Jennifer Strauss-KleinLarry Solomon, Executive DirectorDana Prottas, Lower School and Hebrew School DirectorAna Apter, Teen and Chai School DirectorEllen B. Rest, PresidentDan Rybeck, President-Elect

Teresa Matzek, Iton Tziyon, editortmatzek@mzion.orgPhone: 651-698-3881 ~ Fax: 651-698-1263E-Mail: mountzion@mzion.orgWebsite: www.mzion.org

PRESORTED STANDARDUS POSTAGE PAIDPERMIT NO. 814TWIN CITIES, MN

Rabbi’s Letter 2

Service Schedule 3

From the President 5

Committees 6

Take Hold of Torah 8

Food for Thought 9

MaZAL 10-11

Inclusion 12

Teen and Youth 13

Religious School 14

Contributions 16-17

Sisterhood 18

Tzedek 18

Don’t come to Mount Zion for Services on Friday, February 28For this one Friday night, we don’t want to see you at temple! Instead, dozens of congregants will be invit-ing all members of the congregation to their homes for Shabbat dinner. Want to be a host? Want to be aguest? To sign up, contact Mount Zion office at 651-698-3881, or Ellen Konstan at 651-698-5754 orellen.konstan@gmail.com. Please sign up by Friday, February 21 to ensure we have a place for everyone.

“Shabbat at Home*” Friday, February 28*There will be a brief service on this night at 5:45 p.m. in the Harris Chapel.

Tu BiSh’vatWednesday, January 15

4:45 p.m. & 6:00 p.m. Intergenerational Seder(choose one!)

Several centuries ago, mystics in Eretz Israel created the custom ofholding a Tu BiSh’vat seder, modeled after the Passover seder, to cel-ebrate the New Year of the Trees. We celebrate trees and nature whileenjoying the food and drink we get from them - nuts, fruit, carobcandy, and special combinations of red and white wine. For detailedinformation on Religious School schedule, see page 14.

Think the JNF (Jewish National Fund) is all about trees? Thinkagain! Learn more at www.jnf.org/donate.

Z. Willard Finberg Congregation Education Day

Join us for Intergenerational Learningwith Dynamic Musical Performer, Worship Leader, Educator

Naomi LessSunday, February 23

See page 15 for more details.

MLK ShabbatFriday, January 17Pulpit Guest: Rev. Gloria Thomas

See page 4 for more details.

Spend Shabbat Dinner with your

Mount Zion FamilyFriday, March 7, 5:00 p.m.

Sponsored by Brotherhood

See page 4 for more details.