1506 June 15 Scroll vWEb
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1506 June 15 Scroll vWEb
Scroll Congregation Beth El June 2015 • Sivan-Tammuz 5775 Theme Thank you, Rabbi Rudolph • 1, 2, 6-14 Vol. 64 No. 10 Tour de RUDOLPH Library Corner • 5 4U • 15 Departments Sisterhood • 3 Men’s Club • 4 Contributions • 17 Bulletin Board • 20 Rabbi Rudolph receives a standing ovation at the May 17 tribute event. More photos on page 2. Photo by Mitchell Solkowitz Cycling Through a Rabbinic Career By Janet Meyers The Scroll is a recipient of three Solomon Schechter Gold Awards from the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. When Rabbi Bill Rudolph reflects on his 32 years at Beth El, he thinks of Sully Sullenberger, the US Airways pilot who made a careful emergency landing in the Hudson River, saving everyone on board, and later modestly saying he’d been making small deposits for years in the “bank of experience, and today I made a big withdrawal.” “That is what I have been doing at Beth El – not one big withdrawal but a series of them,” said Rabbi Rudolph in a recent interview. “I’ve had a lot of life and professional experiences, and I’ve tried to learn from them.” His success as the leader of one of the most thriving Conservative congregations in the United States can be attributed to that ability to learn from a variety of experiences, from biblical studies to Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life. Wealth of Ideas Along the way, he also learned to deftly adapt to Beth El the wealth of ideas he picked up from synagogues, Hillel, universities, and other sources. Since Rabbi Rudolph became senior rabbi in the fall of 2001, he has energized Beth El with strategic planning, Torah-writing projects, fun programs like Megillah Madness and the Latke-Hamantasch Debate for minor holidays, annual synagogue-wide themes, and his weekly “It’s Wednesday” online column – just to scratch the surface of the wealth of programming he put into place in a short time. His enthusiasm and drive have propelled those ideas into fresh, exciting activities. With unerring instinct, he has known how to launch a program critical to the continued on page 12 Scroll 8215 Old Georgetown Road Bethesda, Maryland 20814-1451 Phone 301-652-2606 Fax 301-907-8559 Webwww.bethelmc.org Affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism Senior Rabbi William D. Rudolph wrudolph@bethelmc.org Rabbi Gregory Harris gharris@bethelmc.org Hazzan Matthew Klein mklein@bethelmc.org Executive Director Sheila H. Bellack sbellack@bethelmc.org Education Director Rabbi Mark Levine mlevine@bethelmc.org Associate Education Director Elisha Frumkin efrumkin@bethelmc.org Director of Community Engagement Geryl Baer gbaer@bethelmc.org Preschool Director Kim Lausin klausin@bethelmc.org Youth Director Adam Zeren azeren@bethelmc.org Rabbi Emeritus Samuel Scolnic, z”l Hazzan Emeritus Abraham Lubin alubin@bethelmc.org President Jerry Sorkin sorkinj@executiveboard.com Executive Vice President Larisa Avner Trainor ltrainor@cig.com Administrative Vice President Carolyn Berger cbergerl@aol.com Communications and Tikkun Olam Vice President Larry Sidman larrysidman@live.com Community Building Vice President Ivy Fields ivyfields@gmail.com Development and Finance Vice President Mark C. Bronfman mark.bronfman@gmail.com Education and Lifelong Learning Vice President Sara Gordon saragordon18@gmail.com Worship and Spirituality Vice President Rebecca Musher Gross rebeccamgross@gmail.com Treasurer Joseph B. Hoffman jhoffman@kelleydrye.com Secretary Sue Emmer emmerconsulting@verizon.net Scroll Committee scroll@bethelmc.org Janet Meyers, Chair, Sharon Apfel, Judy Futterman, Mara Greengrass, Susan Jerison, Davida Kales, Marci Kanstoroom, Helen Popper, Marsha Rehns, Walter Schimmerling, Larry Sidman, and Jerry Sorkin. Graphic designer: Tiarra Joslyn 4U editor: Jennifer Katz Tour de Rudolph More than 600 congregants gathered in honor of Rabbi Bill Rudolph’s retirement.The shul’s central hallway will be named the Rabbi William D. Rudolph Gallery in recognition of his decades of service. Photos by David Friedlander Gail Fribush and Rabbi Rudolph enjoy the evening. Singers regale the crowd with a humorous version of Dayeinu. Scroll, USPS Number 009813, is published monthly by Congregation Beth El of Montgomery County, 8215 Old Georgetown Rd., Bethesda, MD 20814. Periodical postage rate paid at Bethesda, Maryland and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Scroll, 8215 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD 20814. Tour cochairs Margie Hoffman, Joe Hoffman, and Carolyn Weinberg present Kiddush cup. (Not pictured: Paul Weinberg) 2 More photos will appear in next month’s Scroll. Sisterhood hood members recounted as they displayed treasured family heirlooms at the “Wear and Share a Memory” April 19 event. This was no Antiques Road Show, where preciousness is measured in dollars. Instead, the value of an item was meaBy Hanna Gutmann sured by the memories it evoked of loved ones. Several years ago, Danielle Sultan’s parents gave her a set of Margi Kramer and Wynne Sitrin, event chairs, also set up turquoise-and-gold earrings, necklace, and ring that they a display to illustrate how cherished pieces can be mixed, bought on one of their frequent trips to Lebanon. It meant matched, and repurposed to blend the past with the present. so much to her then, but it means so Antique serving dishes, dinner plates, much more now. After she received cloth napkins, and goblets were paired that jewelry, her parents’ home was with candlesticks from HomeGoods burglarized. Because these pieces were and napkin rings and chargers from not in her parents’ home, they are the Pottery Barn to complete a table setonly ones that remain from all of her ting for a special Shabbat or holiday. parents’ trips. Ways to bring memorable hand-meMarsha Liss is fortunate to have a downs out of the closet and into the beautiful Seder plate by Arnart. But light were also discussed. Examples the source of the plate is intriguing. included a jewelry box that was conMarsha’s father worked in New York verted to a tea box, candlesticks used Danielle Sultan (right) and Susan City as a shoe salesman, fitting those to create a centerpiece, and a radio who had trouble walking. One day in King cabinet that was converted into an the early 1970s, an elegant older lady came in to be fitted. elegant side table when a broken top was replaced with a She apparently was extremely satisfied, as her driver brought marble slab. her back several days later, bearing the Seder plate as a gift While encouraging repurposing, antiques expert and to the salesman. The elegant lady just happened to be Clara interior designer Judy Zassenhaus warned those attending Fortunoff, cofounder of the Fortunoff housewares and jewto research the potential value of an item before redoing or elry stores. repainting it. Encouraging attendees to make informed deciValue Measured by Memories sions on how to reuse items, Margi urged them not to keep These were just a few of the memorable tales Beth El Sister- the past hidden in basements and closets. n Wear and Share Memories UPCOMING SISTERHOOD/ZHAVA EVENTS Tuesdays, June 2, 9, 19, 16, 23, 30, 6:30 pm Mah Jongg Sunday, June 7, 11:30 am Book Chat on A Guide for the Perplexed: A Novel by Dara Horn. Cosponsored with the Library Committee. Sunday, June 14 Sisterhood In-and-Out Brunch (off-site) First Sisterhood Women’s Shabbat Retreat November 6-8, 2015 Shabbat Services, Creative Programming, Learning and Leisure Scholar in Residence: Rabbi Mindy Portnoy A Jewish Calendar Diary for 5776/2015-2016 produced by Women’s League for Conservative Judaism • Jewish and secular holidays beginning September 2015 • Only $12 per calendar To order, contact Ina Young at 301907-7706 or inayoung@verizon.net, or complete the form below and send check, payable to Beth El Sisterhood, to Sisterhood, Congregation Beth El, 8215 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD 20814. Name ___________________________________________ Email ___________________________________________ The retreat will be held at the Bolger Center in Potomac. Phone __________________________________________ $365 double or $440 single occupancy (all-inclusive) # of Diaries _____@ $12 each • Total Cost ________ Also available for purchase at the Beth El Office and Beth El Judaica & Gifts. 3 Men’s Club Kavod Award Honorees By Jon Simon Allen Eisenberg and Howard Hoffman won coveted Kavod Awards, and Rabbi Bill Rudolph was honored for his years of support to Men’s Club at the 2015 Kavod Award breakfast on Sunday, May 3. Allen Eisenberg Allen received his award for Service to Congregation Beth El for more than a decade of leadership and devotion as Beth El’s senior usher for Shabbat and holiday Photos by Mitchell Solkowitz services and for contributions to our worship community. Marvin Yudkovitz introduced Allen as “a true mensch.” Quoting from Pirke Avot about serving others and acting humbly, Marvin said, “Allen exemplifies these teachings.” A native of Detroit and the son of Holocaust survivors, Allen and his wife of 33 years, Connie Stromberg, have three sons, Matthew, Ari, and Jonah. After obtaining a religious studies degree from Michigan and a law degree, Allen spent part of his professional career with the United States Agency for International Develop- Larry Sidman (left), Howard Hoffman, and Barry Elman ment, living in five countries including Nepal, Barbados, Ecuador, and Peru. In each country, he sought out a synagogue in order to join its Jewish community. “My Judaism was a gift – an entrée into local society that wasn’t available to my fellow Americans,” Allen explained. Allen joined the shul shortly after moving to the area in 2001, quickly accepting responsibility as senior usher and often serving as gabbai. Allen said he is a believer in the concept of community. “For it to function,” said Allen, “everyone has to contribute.” He urged Men’s Club members to “Find a committee that matches your interest. And if you aren’t already an usher – join us!” Allen is also proud to be a member of this year’s winning Beth El “It’s Academic” team. continued on page 16 Men’s Club Honors Rabbi Rudolph and Gail Fribush By Jon Simon Shockingly, this was the first time in 30 years that a rabbi had rejected a nominee for a Kavod Award. However, according to Kavod Awards Chairman Larry Sidman, that Rabbi Rudolph receives gift from was because the proposed nominee Jordan Rosner was Rabbi Bill Rudolph himself – modest as always. That didn’t stop Larry from expressing heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the Men’s Club and honoring the rabbi for his “steadfast backing,” his “caring presence,” “wise counsel,” and “witty repartee.” Larry thanked Rabbi Rudolph for his enthusiastic participation in Men’s Club programs – the Blue Yarmulke Man-of-the-Year Award, the Kavod Awards, and the Purim Carnival – to name a few. He expressed appreciation for the rabbi’s help in securing outstanding speakers and even for his participation in the Men’s Club “Day on the Bay” fishing 4 outing. Men’s Club President Jordan Rosner presented Rabbi Rudolph with a framed and engraved work of art donated by artist Phillip Ratner. The work was an illustration of a racing cyclist, a reference to Rudolph’s passion for cycling. Turning to Gail Fribush, Larry acknowledged Rabbi Rudolph’s wife as an “eshet chayil, a woman of great inner and outer beauty, wisdom, and warmth whose value is far greater than the most precious of gems.” continued on page 16 UPCOMING MEN’S CLUB EVENTS Thursday, June 4, 8:30 pm Hearing Men’s Voices. Paul Horn will lead a discussion on “What Makes Us Laugh?” A chance to share why laughter is important, how jokes work, and what may be off limits. All men are welcome. Sunday, June 7, 10:00 am Anthony S. Pitch, an awardwinning historian, will discuss his recent book, Our Crime Was Being Jewish. Sunday June 14, 10:00 am Phil Hochberg, former announcer of Redskins games, will discuss Washington Jewish baseball players. Library Corner Big Jewish Lives By Robin Jacobson Why read biographies? When I Googled that question, all kinds of responses popped up, some grand and lofty, others more prosaic. But whether you read biographies “to stand on the shoulders of giants” or whether (like me) you find that the life stories of famous persons offer an easy, entertaining way to brush up on basic history, two compact new biographies on eminent Zionists fit the bill. Try Herzl’s Vision:Theodor Herzl and the Foundation of the Jewish State by Shlomo Avineri and Ben-Gurion: Father of Modern Israel by Anita Shapira (both in our library). The books’ authors are distinguished Israeli professors, both recipients of the prestigious Israel Prize for their scholarship. Herzl’s Vision Theodor Herzl (1860-1904) was not the first to call for a Jewish state.Yet Herzl was crucial to the establishment of the State of Israel, contends Professor Avineri, because he was the first to command attention for the cause from world leaders, the international public, and ordinary Jews. Additionally, says Avineri, the Zionist Organization, founded by Herzl, created an institutional structure that laid the groundwork for the Israeli state. Born in Hungary and a longtime resident of Vienna, Herzl was a law school graduate, a respected journalist, and sometime playwright. Contrary to popular myth, insists Avineri, it was not the start of the Dreyfus Affair in 1894 (when the French army wrongly denounced a Jewish officer as a spy) that triggered Herzl’s Zionism. Based on a close reading of Herzl’s diaries, Avineri concludes that Herzl became convinced that Jews must have a state of their own by witnessing the rise of anti-Semitism in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The increasing prominence of Jews in business and in the arts and sciences provoked widespread, virulent hostility. Nationalist politicians portrayed Jews as menacing “aliens” who were penetrating European economic and cultural life. In 1896, Herzl published The Jewish State: Proposal of a Modern Solution to the Jewish Question. An instant bestseller, The Jewish State fired the imaginations and aspirations of Jews around the world. For most of the next decade, Herzl tirelessly promoted Zionism, pressing the cause on international leaders – the German Kaiser, the Pope, and others – until his untimely death at age 44. Ben-Gurion: Father of Modern Israel The inauspicious early life of David Ben-Gurion (18861973) offered no hint that he was destined to bring Herzl’s Zionist dream to fruition. No one could have guessed, says Professor Shapira, that he would become a significant political leader, let alone one day proclaim the State of Israel or become its first prime minister. In contrast to the cosmopolitan, sophisticated Herzl, David Ben-Gurion (born David Green) came from a humble Polish shtetl. His family could not afford to send him to high school; he largely educated himself by reading. He had no profession or purpose until he developed a passion for Zionism and socialism and began to grow (slowly) as a leader. For Shapira, Ben-Gurion’s most momentous actions took place during the crucial decade between 1942 and 1952. He envisioned the establishment of the State of Israel, prepared for and directed the War of Independence, implemented mass immigration (which doubled the population), moved the capital to Jerusalem, and more. In particular, Shapira writes movingly of Ben-Gurion’s courageous decision to send Jews to fight and die for a Jewish homeland only a few years after the Jewish population had been decimated in the Holocaust. Despite all his achievements, Ben-Gurion’s gravestone is inscribed simply, as he requested, only with his name and the dates of his birth, death, and immigration to Palestine. n Beth El Book Chat Sunday, June 7, 11:30 am [NOTE CHANGE OF DATE] A Guide for the Perplexed: A Novel by award-winning author Dara Horn. All are welcome to join the discussion. 5 Singing Loudly By Janet Meyers Hazzan Abe Lubin was out of town, so Rabbi Rudolph ran our oldest child’s bat mitzvah rehearsal. Zoe, a tiny, not quite 13 year old, had to hop onto the stool just to be able to see the Torah scroll. Rabbi Rudolph shook his head as he stood in the back of the room while she chanted. “You have to be louder,” he told her. “They won’t be able to hear you in the back. Practice singing louder for the next few days. Make sure you speak loudly and clearly when you read your d’var Torah.” Zoe (now 24) nodded her head but didn’t utter a word. For the next three days, her voice could be heard all over the house as she forced herself to belt it out – Torah readings, Haftarah, d’var Torah, over and over. On Friday, she said, “I’m hoarse from all that shouting!” But on Shabbat morning, everyone sitting in the back rows could hear her. Rabbi Rudolph had demanded perfection, and she delivered. Did he set the bar too high, demand too much? Not on your life – her sense of satisfaction and accomplishment in meeting his challenge lasted for a long, long time. n Comforting Counsel By Susan Jerison My mother passed away in December 2009 in Philadelphia after a long struggle with cancer. Throughout her illness, whenever I saw Rabbi Rudolph or Gail Fribush, they always asked me how she was doing, how I was doing, how we were all doing. I heard from Rabbi Rudolph right after her death. He asked, “How are you, what are the funeral plans, how can I help?” I remember one conversation with him while I was standing in my childhood bedroom, glimpsing my now much older self in the mirror. His words comforted me. He wanted to make sure that I not only knew what Jewish funeral practices are but why he thought they were important. He told me that Beth El was there to help. And he gave me good, practical advice about how to give a eulogy. “Practice it until you almost know it by heart,” he said. “That way the words will have less impact on you when you deliver it, and you’ll be able to do it.” I listened and it worked. Somehow I got through that day and the weeks and months ahead. Perhaps what helped me most during that year was going to minyan at Beth El every day to say kaddish. I went the first time because Rabbi Rudolph said I should go. I kept coming back because the community around me sustained me in a way that I never expected. n Ask Him Anything By Mila Becker We joined Beth El just before our oldest, Sophie, started kindergarten. At first, it took a while to get know other families and the shul. One Sunday morning, we went to drop Sophie off at her kindergarten classroom. Her teacher was wonderful, but always late. So we waited outside the class while kids started crowding the hallways. The Gillman family was next to appear. Todd was shepherding all three of his kids. There still was no sign of the teacher, and Todd had to make two more stops so we volunteered to watch Abby. He left, and suddenly we saw Abby get a look of panic. She ran out into the lobby for something. We all dashed out to catch her. Where did she go? We spotted her in the front. She pulled on Rabbi Rudolph’s suit jacket, and he bent down 6 as she said something to him. Then we saw him pull out his wallet and hand her a dollar. Abby skipped back toward us, and we all resumed waiting for the teacher. Todd reappeared. He had successfully dropped off his two older children and came to check on Abby. As he got closer, he took out his wallet and told Abby she forgot her tzedakeh money. She waived her bill at him, grinned ear to ear, and said she had it. “Where did you get that from?” he asked. “Rabbi Rudolph gave it to me,” she replied. “What? You asked the rabbi for money!” he exclaimed. “Daddy,” she said, “Rabbi Rudolph told us we could ask him anything.” At that moment, Todd looked mortified, but we knew we had found a home. n Thank You, Rabbi Rudolph Rabbi and Matchmaker, Too By Jana Singer and Larry Sidman Rabbi Bill Rudolph and Gail Fribush appear often in our wedding video. There is Bill, under the chupah, at once the officiant and the dear friend, offering words of warmth and wisdom sprinkled with wit. When he proclaims that everybody at Beth El is overjoyed by our marriage, except the Membership Committee because the shul has lost one membership unit, laughter fills the soundtrack. There is Gail, radiant and caring, signing our ketubah as a witness. There are Bill and Gail dancing as the band plays a medley of oldies. Bill and Gail earned their prominence in our wedding story. Knowingly, and in some instances, unknowingly, they were instrumental in bringing us together. Following the sudden premature deaths of each of our first spouses, Bill and Gail acted as comfortersin-chief for each of us. Although we were both members of Beth El, we did not know each other. Bill and Gail brought us together and helped us embrace life again. The first time we met was at a Tea and Torah brunch, part of Project 613, Bill’s brainchild for transforming Larry’s dedication of a new Torah into a Beth El community-wide event. Our next encounter was at the shiva for Gail’s father. Larry’s daughter, Melissa, an aspiring law student, had an animated conversation with Jana, whom she described as a “bubbly law professor.” Jana decided that a father who had raised such a delightful daughter might be a man worth getting to know. Then there was the epic Rosh Hashanah brunch hosted by Bill and Gail with a clear and discernable purpose beyond dipping apples into honey. We sat across from each other, this time beginning the process of connection. Multiple Shabbat dinners hosted by various Beth El friends and congregants followed. Bill and Gail had shepherded us along the road that would lead down the aisle to our joyous ceremony under the chupah. Bill and Gail, rabbi and matchmakers extraordinaire, we could not ask for anything more. n Talking to Me By Marsha Rehns The most remarkable thing about Rabbi Rudolph’s d’vrei Torah is how many of them seem to be addressed directly to me at exactly the right time. I may not remember the circumstance, but I remember the lesson. I remember, “Worry is the interest paid on trouble before it is due,” and “Don’t be a prisoner of your past, but an architect of your future.” Rabbi Rudolph once told a story about the importance of attitude. An elderly man was shot during a robbery. The hospital staff pretty much gave up on him, until they asked him if he was allergic to anything. “Bullets,” he replied. His humor made the hospital staff see him – and treat him – differently. I recall in particular a d’var Torah about angels and how they find us when we need them. Not long after the angel sermon, during a particularly fraught time in my life, an an- gel found me. The individual was so clearly my angel that I wrote to Rabbi Rudolph and told him so. In the story that Rabbi Rudolph told in his d’var Torah, as I recall it, a group of partisans was fleeing through the woods during World War II. Someone spotted a Russian soldier behind a tree, and the partisans turned and ran the other way. It turned out that there were no Russian soldiers in the area that day. But had the partisans continued in the direction they were going, they would have been captured. In the d’var Torah, the angel looked like a Russian soldier. My angel was a young, blond Irishman named Patrick. n 7 Rabbi Rudolph Continued From the Presidents Reflections from the seven individuals who served as president while Rabbi Rudolph was senior rabbi. Hiring Bill Rudolph as “Senior Rabbi” By Arthur N. Popper meeting in Beth El’s history, a formal vote was taken, and Bill was elected senior rabbi. It was truly thrilling when, after the election, Bill joined the meeting and received a long and loving standing ovation. The next step was to install Bill as senior rabbi. This took place on Sunday, March 3, 2002. We had a lovely ceremony with a packed sanctuary. This was immediately followed by our successful search for a second rabbi – a position offered to Greg Harris. I am truly delighted that I was able to lead the hiring of Bill and Greg. On a personal note, Helen and I deeply appreciate the contributions that Bill has made to our congregation in general and to our lives in particular. Confidence in Beth El’s Success that had successfully maintained both two-day and three-day curricula. All of the others had eventually moved to having only a two-day schedule. As in many other situations, Rabbi Rudolph was confident that at Beth El we could do what hardly anyone else could do, and he was strongly in favor of providing our families with both options. He was confident that we would succeed, even when many of the members of the Board were not. And he was right. Beth El is fortunate to be unique as a growing and thriving Conservative shul and in this, as well as in many other instances, Rabbi Rudolph’s guidance and wisdom carried us forward. In mid-2001, Beth El was looking for a senior rabbi, and as president I had to conduct a search. However, it quickly became clear that there was a strong consensus that congregants wanted Bill Rudolph, then associate rabbi, to become “senior” rabbi. It was also clear that Rabbi Rudolph would take the position if offered. We learned, however, that the rules of the Rabbinical Assembly (RA) at that time required that shuls not “promote from within.” So we “confronted” the RA. After some haggling (and gentle “arguing” on our part), the RA agreed that we could hire Bill. On November 29, 2001, at what may be the largest congregation By Brent Berger In the early 2000s, Rabbi Rudolph was instrumental in helping Beth El address a significant issue concerning our Religious School. At that time, maintaining and adding families to Beth El was particularly important, and many of our members and potential members were moving to other synagogues because they offered classes two days a week instead of three. Other families were strongly in favor of maintaining the status quo. We were able to find only one Conservative synagogue anywhere in the country Unequaled Inspiration By Walter Arnheim In a city like Washington, D.C., filled with high-priced lawyers and high-powered politicians, there are probably some speakers more charismatic than Rabbi Rudolph. But I would be hard pressed to name one as his equal in terms of inspiration delivered with a personal touch. During my term as president of Beth El, I often sat on the bimah with Rabbi Rudolph and attended a good num- 8 ber of the shiva services that he led. When he gave the charge to the bar or bat mitzvah or offered words of remembrance in support of the grieving, he did so with such warmth and wisdom that I felt privileged to be a member of his congregation. Looking at the faces of those to whom he was speaking, it was clear that they felt the same way that I did. The Rabbi of Many (and Surprising) Virtues By Sid Getz Over the past 15 years, I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Rabbi Rudolph on many Beth El projects, and I was quickly impressed by his drive to get things done. Over time, I also learned about one of Bill’s less well-known virtues, namely, that he is unusually handy around the house – a skill not typically associated with the rabbinic tradition. Several years ago, during the search for a new hazzan, Bill came to my home for a meeting. When we were finished, as Bill was leaving, he pointed out a broken outdoor electrical outlet cover outside the front door. I told him that I knew it was broken but hadn’t got around to having it fixed. But I could tell that Bill seemed slightly dissatisfied with my response. A week later, I returned home one evening to find the broken outlet cover magically replaced by a gleaming new one. Legacy of Torah Study By Patricia Danoff me,” “If only you would hear me out,” and “Do hear me.” Rabbi Rudolph pointed out that Abraham and Ephron the Hittite are speaking and listening but not really hearing or understanding what the other is saying. The Torah text not only describes this well-known biblical narrative but also teaches us that careful listening and appreciating different points of view are essential to successful interactions with others, whether on a personal, community, or global level. Bill Rudolph loves studying Torah and exploring the wisdom found therein. On so many occasions, for more than 40 years, he has shared this love with college students, congregants, and Jewish and non-Jewish communities. Promoting the study of Torah and the modern applications of the ancient text is one of the greatest and most lasting legacies of his rabbinate. Thoughtful Approach move, he clearly recognized the importance of additional and alternative educational models. His thoughtful and open approach to education is reflective of how he encouraged all of us to engage with our Judaism in ways in which we can evolve and tailor. At the Beth El Board of Directors meetings, a member of the clergy presents a brief d’var Torah, a “word of Torah,” that is often based on the weekly parshah. The verses selected usually contained a lesson in leadership that encouraged board members to perform their duties in ways that best serve our kehillah kedoshah, our sacred community. Of the many inspirational d’vrei Torah I have heard Rabbi Bill Rudolph deliver over the years, there is one that made a lasting impression. Parshah Hayyei Sarah opens with the death of Sarah, followed by Abraham’s effort to purchase from the Hittites the cave of Machpelah for her burial (Genesis 23:1-16). The word “shema” or “hear” is repeated over and over throughout the negotiation between the parties. We read: “Hear us,” “Hear By Dale Rosenthal During my presidency, our Religious School considered a range of new educational programs. I enjoyed watching Bill “grapple” with the L2G model. He was so open to new ways of learning, including off-site options and using creative technology. Although L2G was a potentially “risky” Natural Empathy By David Mills As luck would have it, several significant events in the life of Beth El occurred during my presidency, and Rabbi Rudolph’s role in those events was often pivotal. Collaborating with Bill, especially on decisions that would shape the Beth El community for years to come, was extremely rewarding as I came to appreciate his insight, love for our community, and humor. But the defining moment in my personal relationship with Bill was when we first met. We moved from Virginia to Bethesda in 2005. We had joined a synagogue in Northern Virginia, but we never truly connected with the synagogue or Jewish community there. My background was not Conservative Judaism, and I was skeptical that any synagogue could meet our personal and familial needs. Meeting Bill sealed the deal for us. He knew our names and backgrounds before we even met, and he seemed to understand that we needed a warm, accepting, and active Jewish community. Maybe it was his own background as a Hillel rabbi or maybe it was his natural empathy. Whatever it was, he welcomed us with an open heart and showed us that we had found our new home. 9 1983 The Rudolph Years Rabbi Rudolph joins Beth El as part-time assistant rabbi. 1984 Early Morning Shabbat Minyan begins with Rabbi Rudolph as leader. 1994 Family Camp begins; Rabbi Rudolph and Gail Fribush are among founders. 1996 Rabbi Rudolph becomes full-time associate rabbi. 1999 Community Torah Institute begins. 2000 Rabbi Rudolph plays guitar and begins first alternative Friday evening service (singing service). Senior Caucus starts. First Wednesday Torah Parshah Study Group begins. 10 2001 Rabbi Rudolph elected senior rabbi. 2002 Atid Committee formed (issued report in 2003). Megillah Madness begins. Ambulance donated to Magen David Adom. 2003-04 First synagogue-wide theme (Hachnasat Orchim) for the year launched. 2004 Rally for Israel raises $1 million. Presbyterian-Jewish Dialogue with Saint Mark Presbyterian Church begins in response to Presbyterian Church USA Israel divestment resolution. 2004-05 Building renovation and dedication of Swoff Chapel 2005 “It’s Wednesday” begins. Beth El Empty Nesters (BEENs) starts. 2007 Green Tikkun committee formed. Hiddur Mitzvah contest judging best lulav and etrog holders on first day Sukkot and second-day Sukkot deli lunch begin. Rabbi Rudolph awarded Jewish Federation of Greater Washington Campaigner-of-the-Year. 2007-08 Project 613: Writing a Torah 2008 First Latke-Hamantasch Debate held. 2010 Interreligious Learning Institute begins. Rabbi Rudolph serves as president of the Washington/Baltimore Rabbinic Assembly (2010-12). 2011 Israel Media Series begins. Congregational Education for the 21st Century (CE21) report suggests changes in educational programs for all ages. Beth El is the first religious institution in Montgomery County to win certification as a “green business.” 2013 Conversations with Key American Leaders; first program features U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer with Ken Feinberg. Saul Bendit Institute renamed Rabbi Samuel Scolnic Institute. 2014 Rabbi Rudolph helps spearhead formation of local Ramah Day Camp. Bender Sanctuary renovation completed. 2015 Rabbi Rudolph retires. Beth El has 1,100 membership units, a budget of about $4 million, 550 students in the Religious School, and 130 in the Preschool. 11 RABBI RUDOLPH continued from page 1 times. A key example was the Atid Committee formed in the tumultuous period after he became senior rabbi. Atid mapped out a blueprint for Beth El’s long-term health. Many of its recommendations have been followed over the last 14 years. “I knew from my Hillel days that the first thing a new exec should do is a strategic plan,” Rabbi Rudolph said. Finding ways to bring people together to implement those new programs and vision is also important. “To be a successful rabbi, it helps to be a talent scout and a broker,” he said. Education William David Rudolph, a native of Philadelphia, knew early on that he wanted to be a rabbi. After graduating from Temple University with a degree in psychology, he spent the summer on a kibbutz in Israel before enrolling at Hebrew Union College in Cincinnati. After his ordination, Rabbi Rudolph went to the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor to obtain a PhD in biblical studies. A few years later, his course work completed, he took a job as the rabbi at Michigan State University’s Hillel, figuring he would finish his dissertation in his spare time. That was in the fall of 1973. The Yom Kippur War erupted, and “I haven’t caught my breath since then,” he recalled half-jokingly. “I thought Israel needed defending,” said Rabbi Rudolph, who led the Michigan State Hillel students in pro-Israel rallies and never finished the dissertation. Three years later, he moved to Hillel at University of Michigan; he worked there four years before becoming the national director of personnel at Hillel’s headquarters in Washington. Altogether, Rabbi Rudolph worked at Hillel for 23 years. In 1983, recently divorced, needing something else to do and a little extra cash, he became assistant rabbi of Congregation Beth El. He had heard about the position from Rabbi Sam Fishman, a Beth El congregant who also worked at Hillel. He started after Yom Kippur and worked about 10 hours a week. First Service, First Date One of Rabbi Rudolph’s first responsibilities was to launch the Early Morning Shabbat Minyan for those who wanted a shorter Shabbat service. The evening that he led the very first Early Morning Shabbat Minyan in 1984, he had a date: Gail Fribush. They married the following year. Judy Scolnic, whose husband Rabbi Sam Scolnic z”l 12 hired Rabbi Rudolph, recalled, “Bill was a very welcome addition to the clergy staff. Beth El was growing rapidly, and it became too much for one rabbi to shoulder an 800-family congregation himself, even though there was a very active, enthusiastic lay leadership.” Although he continued to work full time at Hillel, Rabbi Rudolph found that he was increasingly drawn to pulpit work. When he was in seminary, he had not enjoyed ministering to small congregations in distant towns; Judaism was so marginal in their lives, he said. But after decades of working at Hillel, he was weary of traveling and ready for a change. Also, he said, “I had a lot of impact, but mostly I was working with other rabbis. I wanted to do something more. I wanted to work with real Jewish people.” Full-Time Rabbi So when then president Leonard Bebchick approached him in 1996 to ask if he would become full-time associate rabbi, “I said, ‘For sure,’” he recalled. He had already become involved with Family Camp, started in 1994 by young families who wanted a pastoral Shabbat retreat. Rob Fersh, a Family Camp founder, recalled that Rabbi Rudolph and Gail Fribush were involved in planning for the first weekend. “I have always viewed his enthusiastic participation as well as his leading of services and study groups as integral to the success from the beginning,” he said. “The joke was, when I first approached Bill to get him involved, that he offered to be athletic director rather than rabbi. Of course, he seamlessly joined the team to make that first weekend both meaningful and fun. Gail was always deeply involved and from the very early years, among other things, designed the ‘icebreakers’ on the first night to help create community among the group.” Rabbi Rudolph also was the key clergy member involved in Embracing the Torah, the first Torah-writing project, completed in 1997. From that experience, the idea arose for the Community Torah Institute, a day of Torah study featurcontinued on page 13 “Hands-On” Style By Rabbi Greg Harris My first day as Beth El’s assistant rabbi was in the summer of 2002. I walked into the building with the exhilaration of a new beginning. I said hello to Hattie Goodman in the office. She told me that Rabbi Rudolph was down the hall. I walked past the courtyard which, at that time, stood outside the main sanctuary. As I turned the corner toward the clergy offices, the old chapel, and the library, I noticed a garden hose running along the carpet. I assumed the hose was for tending to the landscaping, but I thought it was odd that it was inside. After a few more steps, I realized that the hose was going into Rabbi Rudolph’s office. I stepped in to say hello, but the office was empty. I tracked the hose back to its source, and, in a maintenance closet, Rabbi Rudolph was adjusting the hose to a sink. Hearing me, he turned his head and said, “Hi, Greg. I am just cleaning my fish tank out. I’ll be with you in a minute.” This was not how I expected to first utter this phrase that I would repeat countless times over the years, “Can I help you?” This time, Rabbi Rudolph said I should wait in his office. As we entered, I noticed a huge tank with an enormous fish enjoying the bubbles from the air pump. The fish’s name was Oscar. The garden hose was syphoning water out of the tank. I immediately realized this was Rabbi Rudolph’s “hands-on” approach to jobs both large and small at Beth El. RABBI RUDOLPH continued from page 12 ing several scholars, which began in 1999. Torah, after all, was his first passion, and it was in 2000 that he began the first of his five three-year-long Parshah Study Groups. It started, Rabbi Rudolph said, because Gail Ross, who had been taking a Saul Bendit Institute class with him, suggested Beth El have regular weekly Torah study. Rabbi Rudolph jumped at the chance. The Wednesday morning classes have been “a great anchor” to his week, he said, and have helped him to prepare for Shabbat morning. With their different life experiences, the students bring a range of perspectives to the examination of that week’s parshah. 2001 Upheaval Then came 2001. Rabbi Jonathan Maltzman resigned in August. Over the next several months, many congregants also Thirteen Years of Mentoring The past 13 years have reinforced that lesson from my first day. Rabbi Rudolph’s approach is “hands on” through his activities, the encouragement he gives to others, and the details he notices. He has been my mentor since I left the confines of the Seminary. In a profession where my colleagues’ reputations are often marked by their own grand egos, Rabbi Rudolph combines a vision for the community with the humility that lets others step forward to implement that vision. His style is to continually ask staff and lay leaders how we can do better, whom are we reaching out to, and is a program, a sermon, or a class relevant to where people are at today? He has not done this alone, though. Gail is at his side at public and private moments. I uniquely understand the tireless support that a rabbinic spouse quietly extends at home and within the community. As a couple, Bill and Gail have been models and friends for Rebekah and me. There is a clear and wonderful legacy that he has created – pride in living a dynamic Jewish life, multiple entryways into our community, love of Torah study and of Israel, leadership within the broader Jewish community, developing new pathways for interfaith dialogues, and so much more. Beth El’s future is bright because of the foundation that he has laid. n left and formed another congregation. Rabbi Rudolph was quickly made the head rabbi of Beth El. He hit the ground running. Atid, the strategic planning committee, was formed with chairs Suzanne Bronheim, Rob Fersh, and Mark Levitt. One of the changes from their report was a new structure for the Beth El Board. “It used to be 60 people,” said Rabbi Rudolph. “It’s impossible to get anything done with that many peocontinued on page 14 13 RABBI RUDOLPH continued from page 13 ple.” The streamlined board was half the size. Atid also called for unifying, synagogue-wide programs and for a close look at Beth El’s educational offerings for youth and adults. “It was a crazy year,” Rabbi Rudolph recalled. “We had to build a lot of momentum or else Beth El might well have fallen apart.” The first few months, a few members each week would tell him they were resigning. He became determined to make sure Beth El would succeed and thrive. “I’m motivated by challenges,” he said. When a former Beth El member hinted that the splinter synagogue would siphon off Beth El’s young families, he decided he was not going to let that happen. He called on his programming experience and on key congregants who remained committed to Beth El’s success, and “we were able to stem the hemorrhaging,” he said. Suzanne Bronheim, who was president when Rabbi Rudolph took on full-time responsibilities, was already “a big fan,” having seen his work with Embracing the Torah. The first year he was senior rabbi, “he worked day and night to hold the place together. So many people don’t know how hard he worked that year,” Suzanne said. Megillah Madness Among his first initiatives was Megillah Madness, congregant Scott Glick’s idea. “It was an amazing thing,” Rabbi Rudolph recalled of the first Megillah Madness in 2002. The sanctuary was filled to bursting; congregants rose in groups to perform songs written by other congregants. “It’s been a great community-building thing,” said Rabbi Rudolph. “It’s gotten people together and gotten them involved in the shul in a different way.” Scott recalled that Rabbi Rudolph was immediately enthusiastic about the Megillah Madness idea, and he asked Scott to begin planning the program for the following March. Rabbi Rudolph then asked Scott what could be done to enliven Simchat Torah, just a few weeks away. “We discussed my putting together a band and adding the hora dancing for the hakafot,” said Scott. The events of September 11 intervened but that did not deter Rabbi Rudolph. “He said that we shouldn’t postpone it and that we needed it more than ever,” explained Scott. The band has performed on Simchat Torah ever since. In 2002, Rabbi Greg Harris arrived; the two rabbis have complemented each other over the years to implement programs and attract young families. In 2003, the first syn- 14 agogue-wide theme (Hachnasat Orchim, welcoming guests) was launched; Rabbi Rudolph used the annual themes to give a focus to programming and conversations during the year. Also in the past 14 years, there have been rallies for Israel, new committees, and plenty of programs to make Judaism fun. In addition to Megillah Madness, there is the Latke-Hamantasch Debate, with its tongue-in-cheek presentations favoring one holiday food over another. The University of Chicago held the first debate decades ago, featuring university professors using their specialties to defend their favorites. And there were programs Rabbi Rudolph dreamed up on the spot, like the annual Hiddur Mitzvah contest judging best lulav and etrog holders, inspired by the variety of holders he saw congregants using on the first day of Sukkot. “It’s Wednesday” “It’s Wednesday,” the weekly online column he began in 2005, has been one of the initiatives that “has given me the most pleasure, and the most anxiety,” Rabbi Rudolph said. “I go through dozens of drafts.” “It’s Wednesday” has given him a platform for discussing a wide range of topics. The column also served as another way to involve congregants in the shul. “For many people, ‘It’s Wednesday’ is their only connection with Beth El,” he said. “It’s had a lot of impact.” Providing choices has been one of his goals. He learned from Hillel that “one size does not fit all.You need all kinds of options.” That’s why he backed two- and three-day tracks for the Religious School as well as L2G, the online educational experiment that continues to evolve. Also, any changes, such as musical instruments at Friday evening Shabbat services, have been done “very carefully and successfully.” Up ahead for Rabbi Rudolph in retirement? He has a long list, including continuing to do some programs at Beth El, learning a new musical instrument (perhaps the piano), helping launch the Ramah Day Camp, and working with Beth El’s Chevra Kadisha. He will perform some weddings and funerals and serve on a citywide committee on Jewish funeral practices and ensure that affordable burials can be obtained in the Washington area. “I’ve had a job that I’ve always liked, and I am grateful for that,” Rabbi Rudolph said. “The best part is the people. I’ve had some good ideas, but they wouldn’t work in every congregation. We had the right human resources.” n The sixth-grade Religious School tribute to Rabbi Rudolph continues with Cheryl Kreiser’s class. The students created a trivia quiz/puzzle about The Sixth Rabbi Rudolph. 4U! MORE FU N with Rabb i Rud olph Grade Rabbi Rudolph Trivia Quiz Rabbi Rudolph Trivia Quiz Across 4. LivedAcross here in Ohio 8. Favorite book 4. Lived here in Ohio 11. Favorite hobby involving wheels 8.El Favorite book 12. Beth hero with initials J S 16. A favorite Beth hobby El memory 11. Favorite involving wheels 19. Years at Beth El 12. Beth El hero with initials J S 20. What Rabbi Rudolph will miss about Beth El 16. A favorite Beth El memory 21. Lived here in Pennsylvania 19. Years atinvolving Beth El dirt 22. Favorite hobby What Rabbi of Rudolph miss about Beth El 23. As a20. child dreamed playingwill centerfield 24. Could forever with two of these 21.bike Lived here in Pennsylvania 25. Most 22.important Favorite mitzvah hobby involving dirt 23. As a child dreamed of playing centerfield Aleinu Ann Arbor To help people Ki teitzei Israel 24. CouldDedicating bike forever with two of these the sanctuary Stephen Breyer Trumpet Jerry Sorkin Gardening Philadelphia Everything 25. Most important mitzvah Strong knees Model airplane Mind reading Biking Down Down 1. Why he chose to become a Rabbi 2. Most important Jewish value 1. Why he chose to become a Rabbi 3. Beth El hero who is a “supreme” person 2. Most important Jewish valuegift 5. A favorite childhood 6. hero Favorite involvingperson carving tools 3. Beth El whohobby is a Supreme 7. Favorite country 5. A favorite childhood gift 9. Would like to have this super power 6. Favorite hobby involving carving tools 10. Favorite prayer 7. Favorite countrypenny found 13. Oldest 9. Would14. like to haveTorah this super power Favorite portion 15. Favorite 10. Favorite prayer Star Wars character 17.penny Wouldfound like to play this brass better 13. Oldest 18. Lived here in Michigan 14. Favorite Torah portion Cincinnati Thirty one Baseball 15. Favorite Star Wars character Luke Skywalker The Torah Woodworking Love your yourself 17. Would like neighbor to playasthis brass better 15 Nineteen o nine Derech eretz 18. Lived here in Michigan KAVOD AWARDS continued from page 4 Howard Hoffman Howard was honored for Service to the Community at Large in recognition of his “ground-breaking contributions” to the environment and years of “dedicated and relentless work” at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Barry Elman recognized Howard for three decades in the field of environmental protection. “Despite his modest, soft-spoken demeanor,” remarked Barry, “Howard’s influence on air pollution policy and regulation has been far-reaching and substantial.” Explaining how he and Howard had first met as young attorneys in the EPA general counsel’s office, Barry said Howard “played a significant role in drafting the 1990 Clean Air Act amendments – at the time, the biggest and most expensive peace-time legislation ever enacted. That legislation has touched the lives of every American.” Accepting his award, Howard said he was “truly honored and delighted.” He reminisced about how Rabbi Rudolph had officiated at his daughter’s baby naming and his son’s bris; both Elana and Adam watched as their father was honored. Howard touted the work of three Israeli environmental groups, a subject near and dear to his heart – EcoPeace/ Friends of the Earth Middle East, Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel, and the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies, known for its “Israel Ride” bike tour in which Rabbi Rudolph and several congregants have participated. Discussing Israel’s environmental suitability, Howard said that Israel’s low-growing shrubbery, well suited for goats, and its bee-attracting wildflowers or date trees may have inspired the phrase “zavat halav u‘dvash,” a land “flowing with milk and honey.” Also during the morning program, Larry Sidman, Kavod Awards Chairman, thanked Jordan Rosner, outgoing Men’s Club President, for his “dedication, talents, and boundless energy in revitalizing the Men’s Club and helping it to become a more vibrant and youthful organization.” n Kugel Cook-Off Winners MEN’S CLUB RUDOLPH continued from page 4 Phyllis Dickler serves Rabbi Rudolph. Photo by Tiarra Joslyn A fun-filled competition brought out 11 congregants to cook kugel on Sunday, April 26. Judging the bakers were local “celebrity” judges Sara Milner, cofounder of Sunflower Bakery, and Mark Bucher, congregant and founder of the BGR The Burger Joint and Medium Rare restaurants. Winners were selected in two categories. Rachel Stein won the savory kugel category for “Three Cheese and Spinach Kugel,” and Phyllis Dickler won in the sweet for her “Sweet Noodle Kugel.” Recipes for all the contestants’ kugels can be found on Beth El’s website at www.bethelmc.org/r2TUR. n 16 Larry explained how the Men’s Club benefitted from Rabbi Rudolph’s love of sports, how he had attended nearly every Beth El softball game – even wearing colors representing both teams – and praised the rabbi for “always being accessible, encouraging others to experiment and fulfill their potential.” “You have never proclaimed your worth,” said Larry. “It is self-evident to all of us.” Comparing aspects of Rabbi Rudolph’s leadership style to that of Moses, Larry said, “Your leadership is based on humility and empowering others through delegation. We thank you for the smiles you have brought to our lips, the passion you have brought to our ears, the insights that you have brought to our minds, and the inspiration that you have brought to our souls.” n Hazzan Matthew Klein joins members of Ezuz, the Philadelpha-based ensemble that performed a range of Jewish music at a special concert on April 19. Photo by David Friedlander Contributions Please remember that contributions can be made easily, quickly, and securely via our webpage – www.bethelmc.org Donations made from March 20 to April 21 Engagement of Leah Hoffheimer and Daniel Broder by John Broder and Karolyn Wallace David Mills, for outstanding leadership, by Walter Arnheim and In Honor Of: Marsha Rehns Chana Rose Levita’s first birthday by David and Sonja Schultz Marriage of Jessie Qiu and Phillip Arnheim, son of Marsha In Memory Of: Rehns and Walter Arnheim, by Beth El Opera Havurah Adrienne M. Friede Krausz, my mother, by Mariette Klein Lisa and Joel Weissfeld for ushering at Nate’s bar mitzvah by Esther Weisberg by Stuart and Beth Weisberg Rebecca and Dan Farrington Jesse Samuel Gutmann, brother of Hanna Gutmann, by Joan Carolyn and Paul Weinberg for ushering at Nate’s bar mitzvah and Joel Simon by Rebecca and Dan Farrington Ludwig Meyerhoff, my father, by Gabriela Bebchick David Farber for reading Torah at Nate’s bar mitzvah by Andrea Shandell’s sister, Deborah Shandell, by Joan and Joel Rebecca and Dan Farrington Simon Allen Eisenberg for serving as gabbai at Nate’s bar mitzvah by Seymour Gross by Julia P. Copperman Rebecca and Dan Farrington Beth El Israel Fund Engagement of Samantha Himelman to Seth Niedermayer, In Memory Of: son of Gail Ross and Roy Niedermayer, by Beth El Opera Karen Dubin by Robert Litowitz Havurah Evelyn Grunley by Nancy Grunley Eric Forseter’s 40th birthday by Susan and Edoardo Kulp and Ruth Seewald Amchan, mother of Sonja Schultz, by Sonja and Jonathan Polon and Jennifer Latz David Schultz In Memory Of: Dorothy Beverly Kitchen Fund Tatyana Glickman and Alex Voronchlik by Etia Dvorkina Emanuel “Mike” Gruss by Jonathan Band and Leesa Fields, Judy In Memory Of: and Arnold Marcus, Howard J. Hoffman, and Michael and Lillian Seigel, my mother, by Ann Goodman Suzanne Feinstein Sarah Adella Ozarin by Lucy Ozarin Lore David, mother of Rayah Blumenthal, by Daniel and Building Fund/Capital Campaign Tamara Stern In Honor Of: Harlene Cohen by Susan and Edoardo Kulp Howard Hoffman for receiving the Beth El Kavod Award for Lucy Weiss by Richard Weiss Service to the Community at Large by Rita and Irwin Kopin My father, Sol Gabry, by Mona and Jerry Gabry In Memory Of: Seymour Gross, beloved uncle of Gail Verona Paczkowski, by Emma Goldberger by Martin Goldberger Linda and Roger Cohen and family Cantor’s Fund My beloved sister, Nettie Sanders, by Sabina Shalom In Honor Of: Doris King, mother of Bert King, by Gail Ross and Roy Hazzan Klein for his kindness following the passing of my Niedermayer and Linda and Jerry Herman mother, Estelle Keilson, by Jerrold Keilson and Ellen Silver Murray Elias Jarvik by Laurence Jarvik Hazzan Klein for preparing Nate to become a bar mitzvah by Gloria Orin by Rhonda Eisenstein Rebecca and Dan Farrington Robert Wantz, beloved grandfather, by Tiarra Joslyn Hazzan Klein for his guidance and support on the occasion of Harold Fink, beloved father of Michael Fink, by Ellen Tillman Isabelle Carlisle’s bat mitzvah by the Carlisle family Martha Strauss by family of Gail and Steve Bernstein and Alice Hazzan Matthew Klein by Craig Yokum and the Golden Shiur Grochal Amalia van Dam-Vromen and Marianna de Vries by Josephine In Memory Of: and Filip Sanders Miriam Lubin by Hazzan Abraham Lubin Sam Bayliss, my father, by Susan Stromberg Seymour Gross by Jerome and Ina Wernick Harvey Deutsch, brother of Stewart Deutsch, and Frank Lissy, Jesse Samuel Gutmann, brother of Hanna Gutmann, by Judy father of Myra Deutsch, by Myra and Stewart Deutsch and Stanley Baldinger Bennett Fidellman by Shelah and Michael Lynn Chevra Kadisha Fund Label Forman, our beloved uncle, by Julian Levin and Sondra In Memory Of: Brody Benson Adams by Natalie Adams Deborah Shandell, sister of Andrea Shandell, by Brenda and Jim Mathilde Colon, mother of Jose Araujo, by Jon and Sandy Simon Schmand Ruth Korb by Gail Korb Berta Roth by Henry Roth Robert Weisz and Kurt Weisz by Helene Weisz and Richard Fine Arts Fund Lieberman, Bernie and Janyse Weiss and family In Memory Of: Suzin Glickman Bobeck by Jill Herscot and Andrew Bartley Nettie Rauch by Dr. and Mrs. Bernard A. Heckman Leon Polis by Sheryl and Ira Fishman Howard Cohen, brother of Barbara, and son of Ruth and Ben General Fund Cohen, by Susan and Bert King In Honor Of: Rabbi Bill Rudolph on his retirement and Gail Fribush by Rita Deborah Shandell by Howard J. Hoffman and Cary and Nancy Feldman and Irwin Kopin, Beth and Sid Groeneman, and Ellen and Alvin Reiser by Deborah Reiser David Darr Beth El Forest 17 Contributions Continued Cecilia Eyzyk by Walter Schimmerling, Carol Asch, Karina Cramer, and Ernest Schimmerling Lee Askin by Sara Lieberman Merwin Lavine by Phyllis and Jeff Lavine Ida Cohn by Dale and Harvey Gold Martin Gillman by Todd Gillman Carol Carlisle by Halina Podilipsky Rob Futterman by Craig and Judy Futterman Elaine Silverman Gessow College Activities Fund In Memory Of: Harry Golubcow by Saul Golubcow and Hedy Teglasi. Green Tikkun Fund In Honor Of: Good Deeds Day Paper Shredding Event by Myra and Gordon Gondos, John and Marjorie Gustafson, Antoine W.Van Agtmael, Mary Krill, Kathy Sklar, Evelyn Karson, Nancy Olins, Steven and Shelley Robinson, Aaron Arnold and Phyllis Pomerantz, Rosalyn Bass, Marge and Shelly London, Anonymous, David Brooks, Bob Bayer, and Elizabeth Kellar In Memory Of: Vera Lieban-Kalmar, beloved mother, mother-in-law, and omi, by Michele Lieban Levine and family Livia Levine, beloved mother, mother-in-law, and grandma, by Robert Levine and family Groner Ramah Scholarship Fund In Honor Of: Arnold Marcus by Erwin and Leena Groner Israel Experience Teen Fund In Memory Of: Morris Heckman by Bernard and Ruth Ann Heckman Harvey Shapiro by Melvyn F. Shapiro Kesher Nashim Fund In Memory Of: Suzin Glickman Bobeck by Judy and Stanley Baldinger Mazon In Memory Of: Doris King by Rachelle Bernstecker and Bob Abramson Herbert Kappel by Ellen Kappel Berman Lewis D. Prag by Dianne Lerner Morris Lerner and Dora Prag by Dianne and Herb Lerner Elana Patrice Stein, beloved daughter of Linda Katz and Don Stein and sister of Alyssa Stein, by Joan and Brian Ochs, Randy and Matthew Rose Birnbach by Sarah Birnbach Mindy Lieberman Fund In Memory Of: Our beloved daughter-in-law, Mindy Lieberman, by George and Jackie Goldstone Mintz Landscaping Fund In Memory Of: Amalia van Dam-Vromen by Davida and Andrew Kales Morning Minyan Fund In Honor Of: Siyyum for the first born by Stuart Weisberg In Memory Of: Harry Brody, my father, by Gerald Brody Harry Burkom by Ruth Greenberg Seymour Gross by Cary and Nancy Feldman and Diane Maisel Murray Foss by Anne M. Foss A. Abba Koblenz and Michael Abrams by Andy and Katey Koblenz Glen Samet by Robert Samet Louis Lerman by Allen and Barbara Lerman Ruben Kaplovsky by Lillian and Jay Miller Perspectives Fund In Honor Of: Allen Eisenberg for receiving the Beth El Kavod Award for Service to Beth El by Rita and Irwin Kopin Kimball Nursery School Fund Prayerbook Fund Leonard Neumann by Hillary, Scott, Sammy, Jack, and Isaac Berman Louise C. Schrier by Helene and Ken Nankin Barney Barr by Solomon and Rita Barr Seymour Gross by Sondra Brody and Julian Levin In Memory Of: Bernardo Kotelanski, M.D. Marriage Education Fund In Memory Of: William Ginsberg by Phillip and Vivian Gorden Sadie Gorden by Phillip and Vivian Gorden Library Fund In Memory Of: Kalman Seigel, our beloved father, by Carolyn Shanoff and Ann Goodman Lillian Seigel, our beloved mother, by Carolyn Shanoff and Ann Goodman Jack J. Brown, beloved father, by Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Weiss Frieda Troffkin by Howard and Rhea Troffkin Litman Holocaust Education Fund In Memory Of: My father, Max Kahn, by Fred A. Kahn Leopold Zweig by Michele Greenberg 18 In Memory Of: Rabbi’s Fund In Honor Of: Rabbi William Rudolph on his retirement by Craig Yokum Rabbi Rudolph for his support during my husband, Mervyn’s, illness and following his death by Marcia Jeffries Rabbi Rudolph, Rabbi Harris, Hazzan Klein, and Peter Novick for leading shiva minyan for Mervyn Jeffries by Marcia Jeffries Rabbi Rudolph and Rabbi Harris for their kindness following the death of my mother, Estelle Keilson, by Jerrold Keilson and Ellen Silver Rabbi Greg Harris for his hard work by the Rabbi Search Committee Rabbi Harris for preparing Nate to become a bar mitzvah by Rebecca and Dan Farrington Rabbi Harris for his guidance and support on the occasion of Isabelle Carlisle’s bat mitzvah by the Carlisle family Rabbi Bill Rudolph by Mark Gladstone In Memory Of: Leah Auerbach by Fran Rubin Contributions Continued Lee Bernstein by Harvey N. Bernstein Ethel Levy by Joel and Joan Simon Deborah Shandell, sister of Andrea Shandell, by Tricia and Howard Sachs My beloved uncle, Richard Sodikow, by Sarah Birnbach My father, David Kaufman, by Amy Kaufman Goott Emanuel Gruss, beloved father of Brenda Gruss, by Liz Schrayer and Jeff Schwaber and Ellen and David Epstein Anne Ratcliffe by Mary and Arthur Blitz Samuel Scherr by David J. Mann Goldie Hamond by Mona and Jerry Gabry Faye Amster by Jayson Amster and Tessie Hanna Abraham Dosik by Howard Bender Leo Schimel by Barry and Elinor Schimel Rose Teicher by Bert and Judy Spector Jack Amster by Jayson Amster and Tessie Hanna SuzAnne Gladstone by Mark Gladstone Sisterhood Shiva Meal Fund Scolnic Adult Institute Fund Torah Scroll Fund In Honor Of: Irwin Kopin by Rita Kopin Cary Feldman for coordinating the Beth El fishing trip by Rita and Irwin Kopin In Memory Of: My beloved father, Louis Cherkas, by Rhoda Nichaman My father, Elias Bezner, by Steven Bezner Martha Strauss by Anne and Martin Rosensky and Ilse Stein Henry Cutler by Michael Cutler and Dale Rosenthal Lilyan Margolius, mother of Philip Margolius, by John and Sue Rosenthal Benjamin Rosenthal by Sue and John Rosenthal In Memory Of: Doris King, beloved mother, grandmother, and greatgrandmother, by Julian Levin and Sondra Brody Mollie Luks Raffes, my dear mother, by Ellen Eule Social Action Fund In Memory Of: Doris King by Linda and Ace Lipson Sadye Moshman by Annette Moshman Elaine Tanenbaum Religious School Enrichment Fund In Honor Of: 50th wedding anniversary of Josephine and Filip Sanders by Amy and Arthur Kales In Memory Of: David Brooks by Herb Tanenbaum Elaine Tanenbaum, my wife, by Herbert Tanenbaum In Memory Of: Ben Cohen, beloved father-in-law, by Rita Liebowitz Transportation Fund In Memory Of: Martha Strauss by Alice Scher, Susan R. Bernstein and Joshua M. Pruzansky, and Rebecca and Scott Rothney Benjamin Forstein, father of Sam Forstein, by Esther and Elliot Wilner David Brooks by Carolyn Shapiro and Sarah Shapiro Martha Strauss by Howard and Holly Stein Werner Liturgical Music Fund Senior Caucus In Memory Of: Thelma Menter, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, by Audrey Berger and family Judy Moskowitz by Dan and Carol Moskowitz Barbara Wolf “Israel Quest” Fund In Memory Of: Dr. Elaine L. Shalowitz Education Fund In Memory Of: My father-in-law, Albert Langerman, by Erwin Shalowitz Elaine Shalowitz by Sam Langerman Simos Music Fund In Memory Of: Seymour Gross by Debbie and Scott Glick Albert Glick, father of Scott Glick, by Scott and Debbie Glick Howard Cohen, beloved son of Ben and Ruth Cohen, and beloved brother of Barbara Cohen, by Debbie and Scott Glick Beloved brother, Jerome, by Rita Liebowitz Cyma Heffter, my wife, by Jerome Heffter Seymour Gross by Bernard T. Resnick In Memory Of: Sy Wolf by Faye R. Wolf Beth El Judaica & Gifts Lots of new jewelry and gifts. Also great sleep-away camp goodies. Summer hours by appointment. Beth El Judaica & Gifts is a project of Beth El Sisterhood. Sisterhood Kiddush Fund In Honor Of: Barbara Friedman, for the beautiful kiddush at the baby naming for Arielle Williamowsky, by Jackie and Adam Williamowsky Judy Blank and Sisterhood for Sisterhood’s extra efforts for Passover desserts for Nate’s bar mitzvah kiddush by Rebecca and Dan Farrington In Memory Of: Pauline Heckman by Bernard and Ruth Ann Heckman Howard Cohen, beloved son of Ruth and Ben Cohen, by Margy Nurik Box Tops for Education Please cut out the Box Tops for Education labels found on many of the products you buy. Sisterhood collects the labels in a canister on top of the security desk in the Beth El lobby and donates them to Weller Road Elementary School in Silver Spring. The school cashes in the Box Tops for supplies that are sorely needed. Thank you to all who have made the effort to clip and drop off Box Tops. 19 Congregation Beth El Periodicals Postage PAID Bethesda, MD 20814 8215 Old Georgetown Road Bethesda, Maryland 20814-1451 While we know you’ll want to read every word in this issue of the Scroll, when you’re finished, please recycle it. Bulletin Board Mazal Tov to Walter Arnheim and Marsha Rehns on the marriage of their son, Phillip Arnheim, to Jessie Qiu Sharon Markus and Rob Fersh on the birth of their first grandchild, Jordan Fred Knaani, son of Rachel Fersh and Shay Knaani Jonathan Greenblatt on his appointment to the position of national director of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). Jonathan, his wife Marjan, and their family will move to New York this summer. Ilene and David Jacobowitz on the forthcoming marriage of their son, Robert, to Karen Johnson Karen and Bill Lebovich on the engagement of their daughter, Jennifer, to Michael Cherner, the son of Nancy and Stuart Cherner of Potomac Condolences to Harriet Brooks on the death of her husband, David Brooks Laura and Michael Cutler on the death of Laura’s father, Stanley Kogan Nancy Grunley on the death of her father, Martin Grunley Mildred Hamer on the death of her husband, Joseph Hamer Bert and Susan King on the death of Bert’s mother, Doris King Andrea Shandell and Russell Fox on the death of Send submissions to the Scroll to scroll@bethelmc.org Andrea’s sister, Deborah Shandell Bill and Paula Whyman on the death of Bill’s father, Frank Sanford Whyman Noteworthy Senior Caucus Meeting, Wednesday, June 3, 1:00 pm. These vibrant active retirees join to hear about the ongoing programs and plan new activities. Be one of them. Roundtable with the Rabbi, Wednesday, June 3, 2:00 pm. Join us to celebrate June’s birthdays (yours and those of others) with desserts, coffee, and a lively discussion led by Rabbi Harris. Birthday celebrants receive a special invitation, but all are welcome. Senior Caucus, Thursdays, June 4, 11, and 25, noon. Brown Bag lunch. Come and socialize with your friends and enjoy refreshments and dessert. Senior Caucus–Vatikkim Luncheon Program, Thursday, June 18. Starts with lunch at noon. Following lunch, Shoshana Pearlman, clinical social worker and JSSA liaison to Beth El, will speak about “Humor: The Best Medicine at Any Age.” Lunch costs $10. To RSVP for lunch, call Ricardo Munster 301-652-2606, ext. 316, or rmunster@bethelmc.org, by Tuesday, June 16. The program is free and begins at 1:00 pm. Bridge – the greatest game ever! Join us every Monday and Thursday (except the third Thursday) from noon to 4:00 pm. Drop in and join a game; no partner necessary. For information or transportation, contact Ricardo Munster at 301-652-2606, ext. 316, or rmunster@bethelmc.org. Weekly Parashiot Source: Siddur Sim Shalom Beth El Calendar &Weekly Parashiot Descriptions of Services B’ha’alot’kha Korach God charges Aaron to light the seven-branched menorah. The Levites are purified; a second pesach offering is ordained for those unable to participate in the first. Israel sets forth from Sinai. As the Ark is carried forward, Moses cries, “Arise, Adonai! May Your enemies be scattered; may Your foes be put to flight.” When the Ark rests, Moses declares, “Adonai, may You dwell among the myriad families of Israel.” In the wilderness, Moses’ leadership is challenged several times. Korach leads a rebellion against Moses and Aaron. God causes the earth to open, swallowing Korach and his followers. These deaths lead to grumbling among the people, further provoking God’s wrath. A plague befalls the people, killing many. God arranges for a divine sign—the flowering of Aaron’s rod—to affirm Aaron’s priesthood and quiet the people. God reiterates the duties of priests and Levites. June 6, 19 Sivan Sh’lach L’kha June 13, 26 Sivan Moses dispatches 12 spies to Canaan. Ten report that the land is unconquerable. The people panic, wanting to return to Egypt. Caleb and Joshua exhort Israel to fulfill God’s plan. The uprising persists, and God condemns the people to wander in the desert for 40 years. God also commands the wearing of tzitzit, in order to prompt Israel to remember and to observe all of God’s mitzvot and to be holy before God, who has brought them out of Egypt to be their God. June 20, 3 Tammuz Hukkat June 27, 10 Tammuz God ordains the sacrifice of a red heifer to purify those having contact with the dead. Miriam dies. When the people complain about a lack of water, Moses strikes a rock instead of speaking to it as God instructs. Consequently, God informs Moses, Moses may not enter the Promised Land. The Israelites skirt Edom when it refuses them safe passage. Aaron dies. After conquering the Canaanites and Amorites, Israel encamps on Moab across the Jordan from Jericho. Minyan Chaverim offers the ruach of the Shabbat services in USY, BBYO, and Hillel. We have a lay-led, traditional, participatory, spirit-filled service, including full repetition of the Shacharit and Musaf Amidah, as well as the full Torah reading with an interactive Torah discussion. A pot-luck lunch follows the service at a nearby home. For information, contact Debbie Feinstein at debbie_feinstein@yahoo. com or Sheryl Rosensky Miller at sherylrosemiller@gmail.com. The Worship and Study Minyan is conducted by members of the congregation and combines evocative Torah study with ample singing and ruach. Children are welcome, although the service is oriented toward adults. For information, contact Dan Hirsch at 301-654-7289, DOHirsch@gmail.com Sid Getz at 301-530-2215, sidgetz01@gmail.com Mark Levitt at 301-365-5365, MLevitt@Nelliscorp.com. Minyan Olamim, led by Hazzan Klein and guests, includes chanting, niggunim, meditation, and a focus on the inner journey of the prayers. Mixing Hebrew and English, it is an opportunity for people of different backgrounds to sing, pray, converse, and find a deeper spiritual meaning in their Shabbat experience. Youth /Family Services, for information, contact Elisha Frumkin, 301-652-8573, ext. 319, efrumkin@bethelmc.org. Daily Services M-F 7:30 am Sun-Th 8:00 pm Fri 6:30 pm Sun 9:00 am Shabbat Services (all services are weekly, except as noted) Early Morning Service Main Service Babysitting (2-6 years old) Minyan Chaverim (3rd Shabbat) Minyan Olamim (4th Shabbat) Worship and Study Minyan (1st Shabbat) 7:30 am 9:30 am 9:15 am 9:30 am 10:45 am 9:45 am Youth Shabbat Services Teen Service (1st Shabbat) 10:00 am Junior Congregation (5th grade +; Library) 10:00 am Shitufim 10:30-11:30 am (2nd– 4th grades; 2nd & 4th Shabbat; Zahler Social Hall) Gan Shabbat (kindergarten-2nd grade; 1st & 3rd Shabbat; MP 1&2) 10:30-11:30 am Nitzanim (birth - kindergarten; 2nd, 4th, 5th Shabbat; MP 1&2) 10:30-11:30 am SHITUFIM, JUNIOR CONGREGATION, AND TEEN SERVICE WILL RESUME IN SEPTEMBER. Congregation Beth El June 2015 Monthly Calendar Sunday 1 Monday 9:00 am Minyan 9:30 am Men’s Club Breakfast 10:00 am Men’s Club Program 10:00 am Sisterhood In & Out Brunch Tuesday Wednesday 1 2 8:15 am A Taste of Talmud 6:30 pm Mah Jongg 9:30 am M. Fine Class 2:00 pm Roundtable with the Rabbi 8 9 10 9:30 am Knitting Group 12:30 pm Bridge 7:30 pm Boy Scouts 7 Sivan-Tammuz 5775 12:30 pm Bridge 7:30 pm Boy Scouts 7:30 pm Religious School Committee 8:15 am A Taste of Talmud 6:30 pm Mah Jongg 7:30 pm BEPS Board Meeting 3 9:30 am M. Fine Class Thursday Friday Last Day of BEPS Noon Senior Caucus Brown Bag Lunch 1:00 pm Bridge 8:30 pm Hearing Men’s Voices 6:30 pm Friday Evening Service 5 Candles 8:12 pm 6 11 12 Candles 8:16 pm 13 4 Noon Senior Caucus Brown Bag Lunch 1:00 pm Bridge 6:30 pm Friday Evening Service 9:00 am Minyan 9:30 am Men’s Club Breakfast 10:00 am Men’s Club Program 11:30 am Book Club 21 Father’s Day 9:00 am Minyan 9:30 am Men’s Club Breakfast 10:00 am Men’s Club Program 28 9:00 am Minyan 9:30 am Men’s Club Breakfast 10:00 am Men’s Club Program 7:30 am Early Shabbat Service 9:30 am Main Shabbat Service 9:30 am Taylor Haber Bat Mitzvah 9:45 am Worship & Study Minyan 10:30 am Gan Shabbat 7:30 am Early Shabbat Service 9:30 am Main Shabbat Service 9:30 am Samantha Levine Bat Mitzvah 9:30 am Vivianna Arnold Bat Mitzvah 10:30 am Nitzanim (offsite) 14 Saturday 15 12:30 pm Bridge 7:30 pm Boy Scouts 22 12:30 pm Bridge 29 12:30 pm Bridge 16 8:15 am A Taste of Talmud 6:30 pm Mah Jongg 7:00 pm BEST Parent Orientation 17 Rosh Hodesh Tammuz 9:30 am M. Fine Class 7:30 pm Rosh Chodesh: It’s a Women Thing 18 Rosh Hodesh Tammuz Noon Senior Caucus Luncheon 7:00 pm Knitting Group 7:30 pm BEPS New Parent Orientation 19 Candles 8:19 pm 5:00 pm Senior Caucus Shabbat Dinner 6:30 pm Kol Haneshama Friday Evening Service 20 7:30 am Early Shabbat Service 9:30 am Main Shabbat Service 9:30 am Neil Abramowitz Bar Mitzvah 9:30 am Minyan Chaverim 10:30 am Gan Shabbat 8:15 am A Taste of Talmud 6:30 pm Mah Jongg 7:00 pm The Red Stone Group 7:30 pm Board Meeting 9:30 am M. Fine Class Noon Senior Caucus Brown Bag Lunch 1:00 pm Bridge 6:30 pm Friday Evening Service 26 Candles 8:20 pm 27 30 27 28 29 Candles 8:07 pm 30 23 8:15 am A Taste of Talmud 6:30 pm Mah Jongg 24 25 7:30 am Early Shabbat Service 9:30 am Main Shabbat Service 10:30 am Nitzanim