2017–2018: 5778
The KJ Difference
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an open door See p2
The Beginners Program (KJB) is an acclaimed outreach organization, offering meaningful experiences for Jews of all backgrounds. We host weekly services, classes and events, and we hold the largest High Holiday Beginners Service and Shabbat Across America dinner in North America.
a place to connect See p3
Kesher is a spiritual and social home for young Jewish singles, couples, and families to connect with each other and with the entire KJ community.
home to many prayer traditions See p4
A Sephardic Minyan for KJ members with Sephardic customs. We take pride in being one of the only synagogues that has successfully brought together Jews with different prayer traditions into one united KJ community.
proudly Zionist
See p5
KJ is a stalwart supporter of Israel. We bring the largest synagogue delegation to the AIPAC Policy Conference in Washington and host multiple Israel-focused events throughout the year. We joyously celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut and Yom Yerushalayim, and Israel and her soldiers and citizens are always close to our hearts.
KJ a communal hub See p6
Celebrate the traditions of Shabbat and the Holidays with uplifting services followed by a delicious Kiddush, inspiring and stimulating guest speakers, communal meals, and the warmth and spirit of Jewish togetherness.
a congregation of inclusion
See p10
We are welcoming to ALL young all educational backgrounds and physical needs. Our Jewish Youth School provides meaningful Jewi experiences for students who do those who need more individualiz
welcoming
See p11
KJ takes pride in offering a conversion program for serious, motivated and qualified candidates. Our rabbinic staff helps facilitate and guide individuals through the conversion process and integrate them into the Jewish community.
J is…
community See p14
where youth come for Torah and fun See p8
Our Youth Department (KJYD) provides educational and fun activities to inspire our children, who are the Jewish future. From movie and gym nights to Shabbat morning programming and Chesed activities, youth programming at KJ is always exciting!
g people and to children from with unique learning or h Connection (JYC) Hebrew ish learning and religious on’t attend Day School and to zed attention.
We support and engage the broader Jewish community through UJA at KJ, and our members can connect through Sisterhood and Men’s Club, and seniors participate in a weekly Lunch and Learn.
committed to chesed
See p16
We have proactive volunteers in Bikur Cholim, Hatzolah, and the Chevra Kadisha. The community also has access to various services including the KJ Social Worker, Shabbat Hospitality, Food Pantry, Mitzvah Toy Campaign and Dorot.
a spiritual home  See p12
Enrich your soul and spiritually connect through prayer, Torah study, and mitzvot. We offer a wide array of engaging and interesting classes on Bible, Talmud, Halakhah, Jewish Philosophy, Ethics, Jewish History, and Hebrew language. There are multiple arts and culture programs including film screenings and book reviews. We are a seven day a week synagogue, with the right class for everyone at KJ.
KJ Beginners (KJB) Friday Night Live!
The KJ Beginners Program offers Jewish individuals and families an open door to a broad range of learning, knowledge, and experiences. We welcome participants of all levels of observance and aim to explain the “hows” and “whys” of our heritage. We provide the tools for religious and spiritual growth, creating a community and a family. We are all Beginners at different stages of the same journey. We are pleased to partner with NJOP for a number of programs.
September 8, October 20, December 8, January 19, April 20, June 8 Join Rabbi Elie Weinstock, Rabbi Daniel and Rachel Kraus and KJ Beginners Chazan Shilo Kramer for an inspiring Carlebach-style Friday night service. The experience continues with a festive Shabbat dinner, singing and dancing, words of Torah, and the joy of new and old friends.
Shabbat Across America (SAA) March 9 Be a part of it! Join thousands of Jews in hundreds of locations coming together to celebrate what unites us all: SHABBAT. www.ckj.org.saa * SAA After Party for Young Professionals: mix, mingle, schmooze, cheer and most importantly celebrate shabbat!
See kjbeginners.org for more details.
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Beginners Shabbat Lunches Join us for a sit-down buffet Kiddush Lunch featuring good food, good company, and Shabbat spirit.
Shabbat Services Beginners Service – 9:30 am Start your Shabbat morning with an introductory and welcoming, no-Hebrew-necessary service. KJB Minyan – 9:30 am This interactive yet intimate service allows you to explore prayer and parsha like never before.
Kesher KJ Kesher offers an array of programs and events to connect young professionals, couples, as well as families with young children. Kesher, which means “connection” in Hebrew, provides a warm and welcoming entry into the larger KJ community.
The Kesher Minyan is a weekly service designed for young couples, singles, and families with young children. Regular “Kesher Connect” Kiddushes throughout the year following the service are a great opportunity to meet and greet other young people of the community. See website for schedule.
October 12: Shemini Atzeret Luncheon November 4: Saturday Night Movie December 17: Chanukah Concert January 14: Parent and Child Sunday Morning Tefilah February 4: New Mother’s Breakfast February 18: Sunday Morning Purim Celebration March 4: Wellness Series 1 - CPR Training March 11: Wellness Series 2 - Cooking Class April 15: Wellness Series 3 - Health Screening April 29: Parent and Child Sunday Morning Tefilah May 17: Thursday Night - Challah Bake
Kesher@ckj.org
Kesher Welcoming Committee New to the community? Want to get involved, or just meet some of the KJ Family? Email kesherwelcome@ckj.org to be hosted for a Shabbat meal and to get in the know!
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Sephardic Minyan SephardicMinyan@ckj.org
The KJ Sephardic Minyan was established seven years ago to serve the growing need for Sephardic services in the neighborhood. The Minyan, known for its exceptional warmth, spirit, and inclusiveness, has grown significantly since then. We currently offer services 365 days-a-year. Members also participate robustly in the broader KJ community programming. We are pleased to have Chazan Benjamin Zalta complement the KJ rabbinate in leading the Minyan and inspiring all who attend.
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Israel at KJ
Israel @ 70 Seudah Shlishit Series This year, KJ celebrates Israel’s 70th anniversary with a series of special classes, speakers and celebrations. Our weekly seudah shlishit will be devoted to Israel related themes. Sermons and lecture series will also help us reconnect with the miracle of 1948.
AIPAC Policy Conference March 4–6 Join the KJ/Ramaz Delegation at AIPAC’s Policy Conference led by Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz, Rabbi Elie Weinstock, and Rabbi Haskel Lookstein •H ear from top leaders whose decisions shape the future of our world.
Yom HaZikaron & Yom HaAtzmaut Tekes Ma’avar Wednesday, April 18 Special Memorial Program honoring Israel’s fallen soldiers, and celebrating Israel’s birthday.
Ramaz Zimriah Thursday, April 19
Community Israel’s Birthday BBQ Thursday, April 19 ckj.org/youthdept
Yom Yerushalayim Sunday, May 13
• Come together with thousands of pro-Israel activists and congregants from all 50 states. • Lobby members of Congress on critical legislation affecting the U.S.-Israel relationship. • Make our synagogue-school community the most well represented in the nation.
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Shabbat & Holidays Shabbat Services Hashkama Minyan – 7:15 am Early morning services followed by a short Torah class. Main Service – 9:00 am Sephardic Minyan – 9:00 am Kesher Minyan – 9:30 am Connecting Young Professionals and Families within the KJ community. Beginners Service – 9:30 am KJB Minyan – 9:30 am Women’s Tefilah Group (wtg@ckj.org) October 13 (Simchat Torah), September 16 Please check calendar for additional dates.
See ckj.org for more details.
Special Shabbat Events Shabbat Shuva Drasha September 23 Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz Samuel S. Silverstein Shabbat Community Together Friday Night Dinner November 10–11 Rabbi Dr. Richard Hidary Associate Professor of Judaic Studies at YU | Rabbi at Sephardic Synagogue Shabbat with Rabbi Wieder November 24–25 Tova and Norman Bulow Shabbat Scholar and Dinner January 12–13 Rabbi Saul Berman
Shabbat Learning
AIPAC Shabbat January 26–27
Responsa Class 8:30 am – Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz
Musical Shabbat & Melava Malka February 2–3 Eitan Katz
Pre-Mincha Shiur Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz Explore a broad range of topics in Jewish Tradiion, with a focus on their application today. Seudah Shlishit Join us following Mincha for a light meal, good company, and community spirit. Each week features a discussion led by one of our rabbis or a guest presenter.
Seymour Propp Memorial Lecture February 10 Dr. Tova Ganzel Director of the Midrasha in Bar-Ilan University Shabbat Yachad March 16–17 Suzannne and Dr. Norman Javitt Annual Synagogue Shabbaton March 23–24 David Schizer, CEO of JDC Shabbat HaGadol Drasha March 24 Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz
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Community Holiday Highlights KJ Beginners Rosh Hashanah Dinner Wednesday, September 20 Communal Sukkah Meals October 4–7 KJ Beginners Sukkah Dinner Under the Stars Tuesday, October 10 Kristallnacht Program Thursday, November 9 Dr. Samuel Kassow
Holidays Community Holiday Breakfasts (following morning services) Chol Hamoed Sukkot Sunday, October 8– Tuesday, October 10 Hoshanah Rabbah Wednesday, October 11 Purim Thursday, March 1 Siyum Bechorim Friday, March 30 Yom HaAtzmaut Thursday, April 19
KJ Beginners: 100 Homes of Light Chanukah Celebration Tuesday, December 12– Tuesday, December 19 Chanukah in the Park Sunday, December 17 KJ Beginners Purim Soiree Wednesday, February 28 Communal Passover Seder Friday, March 30 Yom Hashoah Wednesday, April 11 Shavuot Dinner and Tikun Leil Saturday, May 19
Yom Yerushalayim Sunday, May 13
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Youth Department (KJYD)
Shabbat Youth Groups 10:00 am
The KJ Youth Department is the place your children will WANT to be! By creating a warm, safe and inspiring environment, our children discover the joys of Jewish values and traditions through our programs. Join us on this exciting adventure, where Torah and fun are one.
See ckj.org/youthdept for more details.
Tot Shabbat Daytime Children under 3 and their parents are invited to join Aryana Ritholtz and the KJYD team for Shabbat songs, stories, and our worldfamous Torah parade followed by a cookie Kiddush. Early Childhood is for Nursery, Pre-K & Kindergarten. Shabbat morning activities include davening, singing, parsha, and story time followed by a light snack.
Youth Department Events Musical Havdalah and Ice Cream Parties November 11, December 9, January 13 at 6:00 pm Join Morah Chaya for an inspiring and musical Havdalah followed by art projects and a delicious ice cream party.
Junior Congregation We create a place where kids can be kids while they pray and participate in Tefilah and Parsha activity’s. Each week ends with fun games and Shabbat Treats! Separate groups are run for grades 1–2, and 3–4.
Family Friday Night Dinners November 3, December 1, January 26, February 23 Start the evening with ageappropriate Shabbat services followed by a delicious dinner. RSVPs required. $60 per family.
Youth Minyan Boys and girls in grades 5–7 help run and create a Shabbat morning service and lead many parts of the Tefilah and Torah Study. Followed by gym time and a hot Kiddush.
Youth Shabbatonim Grades 1–2: November 4, April 21 Grades 3–4: November 18, April 28 Following regular morning Shabbat groups, lunch and a fun-filled day awaits! Shabbat Tefilah Together Parents are invited to join their children for an inspiring Shabbat morning service, including Tefilah, Torah Reading, Divrei Torah and a delicious Kiddush to follow. Family Seudah Shlishit September 16, June 2 Inspiration, food, and entertainment for all!
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Post Bar Mitzvah Minyan and Class Sundays starting 9/10 Boys in grades 7–9 are invited to join Corey Horowitz from 9:15–10:45 am. Teens learn to lead the davening, refine their Torah reading skills, and study some Mishna and practical Halakhah. Bagels, donuts, and more will be served!
KJYD Holiday Celebrations Simchat Torah Bash Friday, October 13
PJ Library
Ramaz/KJ Havdallah & Ice Skating January 20, 2018 7:30–9:30 pm
Join KJ at our neighborhood Barnes & Noble for some pre-holiday excitement!
Purim Eve Extravaganza Wednesday, February 28 Purim Carnival— The Party of the Year! Thursday, March 1 Celebrate Israel Thursday, April 19 Shavuot: A Night of Learning Saturday, May 19 Shavuot Ice Cream Party Sunday, May 20
Rosh Hashanah Sunday, September 17 Chanukah Sunday, December 3 Purim Sunday, February 25 Passover Sunday, March 25 Additional programing details and schedule can be found at ckj.org/youthdept.
Sports
MaTaN Bat Mitzvah Program
KJBL Basketball (Grades 1–7) Sundays, Starting September 17 Develop basketball skills in an environment that promotes sportsmanship and fair play.
Sundays, Starting January 7 at 9:30 am Taught by Rachel Kraus rachel@ckj.org Using Jewish female role models from the matriarchs through Nehama Leibowitz, explore the meaning of responsibility and the importance of daily mitzvot, ritual practice and Torah study in a way that is hands on, exciting and meaningful.
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Jewish Youth Connection (JYC) The Jewish Youth Connection (JYC) is our Sunday morning Hebrew School for students in Kindergarten through 7th grade, as well as a specialized program of preparation for Bar/Bat Mitzvah students. JYC meets on Sunday mornings from 9:30 until Noon. Our students look forward to coming each week because they create lasting friendships.
JYC@ckj.org 212-774-5692 Morah Ariana Solovey Principal Netanel Goldstein Director
JYC is an inclusive Hebrew School, and we strive to give each student the individual attention they need and deserve. Through tutoring and small classes, our students receive the most individual and high quality Hebrew school education available. JYC is “the Hebrew School with a H.E.A.R.T.” This stands for Hands-on, Energetic, Attentive, Relevant, Tech-savvy.
See jyc.info for more details.
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The exceptional, experienced teachers of JYC are professional, caring, enthusiastic, passionate and high quality role models. We pride ourselves on having a serious, yet fun, interactive curriculum with differentiated instruction. Each classroom is equipped with a Smart Board, so technology is always integrated into the lessons. Additionally, we take preparing our students for their Bar/Bat Mitzvah very seriously. JYC was founded by members Scott and Susan Shay. JYC families are invited to take advantage of congregational offerings. No synagogue membership is required to attend JYC or to participate in any of the school programming.
Conversion and Inclusion Conversion KJ takes pride in offering a path to conversion for serious, motivated and qualified candidates. We do so as a matter of principle, as a congregation that is committed to welcoming everyone seeking a deeper Jewish commitment. Conversion candidates work directly with the rabbinic staff and are mentored by members of the community. Candidates draw on the multiple resources of the community, including the KJ Beginners Program, Adult Education lectures, and holiday programming in furthering their education. After conversion, we continue to offer support and counseling in helping converts integrate into our community. If you would like to schedule an appointment to discuss conversion, please email ravelie@ckj.org.
Inclusion KJ is fully committed to being a welcoming home for all of our youth. Our Jewish Youth Connection Hebrew School offers a Jewish education and experiential programming for students who don’t attend Jewish day school. JYC is proud of its inclusive reputation, and we embrace students with different learning abilities. With our individualized attention and a staff attuned to each child’s unique capabilities, students have the opportunity to study and celebrate Judaism in meaningful ways. Our Shabbat youth groups and programs are always ready to facilitate any child’s inclusion, and we work with group leaders and shadows to help every child feel fully at home.
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JYC: Netanel@ckj.org KJ Youth: Aryana@ckj.org
Enrich the Soul Exploring Jewish Thought Mondays at 8:30 am Starting October 23 Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz What is the foundation of Jewish ethics? Dive deeply into questions of Jewish philosophy and wrestle with challenging ideas. Translated texts provided.
Daily Services Shacharit (Morning Service)
Jewish Learning Institute (JLI)
8:30 am Sunday, Legal Holidays
Mondays at 7:00 pm Rabbi Elie Weinstock
7:15 am Monday, Thursday
JLI is a creative presentation of traditional Judaism in a highly professional, innovative, academically rigorous yet accessible format.
7:30 am Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 7:00 am Rosh Chodesh weekdays Mincha & Ma’ariv (Evening Service) Standard Time: 5-10 minutes before sunset
Great Debates in Jewish History Starting October 30 The Art of Communication Starting January 22 Existence Starting May 7
Ramban al ha-Torah: The Commentary of Nachmanides Tuesdays at 8:00 pm Starting September 12 Martin Kaufman Explore Sefer Bereishit and topics such as Man, Jewish Nationhood and History, Free Will, the Soul, Pre-destination, Divine Governance, Evil, and more.
Holiday Series Rabbi Daniel & Rachel Kraus Prepare for the holidays with an in-depth study of the laws, customs, and mystical aspects unique to each festival. See ckj.org/holiday_workshops for schedule.
Women’s Parshat Hashavua Wednesdays at 8:30 am Starting October 18 Rabbi Haskel Lookstein
Drash and Nosh Wednesdays at 6:30 pm Starting October 18 Rabbi Yossie Weiser Feed the body, mind and soul with Torah and a light dinner.
Crash Course in Hebrew Reading
Daylight Savings Time: 6:45 pm See ckj.org/cal
Parsha Foundations Tuesdays at 8:15 am Starting September 12 Rabbi Elie Weinstock
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Fall: Wednesdays at 6:30 pm Starting October 18 Winter: Wednesdays at 6:30 pm Starting January 3 Sara Rosen No previous background? No problem! Learn to read Hebrew in just a short time.
Prayerbook Hebrew Fall: Wednesdays at 7:30 pm Starting October 18 Spring: Wednesdays at 7:30 pm Starting January 3 Sara Rosen Practice Hebrew reading skills using the siddur and other Jewish texts. Hebrew classes sponsored by NJOP.
Soul Cycle – A Monthly Spiritual Workout Rachel Kraus Women of the community are invited to participate in a monthly learning series to provide an opportunity to learn, share, engage and inspire each month. See ckj.org/weekly for schedule.
Traversing Talmud Wednesdays, starting October 25 at 7:15 pm Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz
Meaningful Jewish Living
Studies in the Weekly Portion
Thursdays at 7:00 pm Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz, Rabbi Elie Weinstock and Rabbi Daniel and Rachel Kraus
Thursdays at 8:00 pm Sam Berkovitz
3,300 years of Jewish tradition in 25 weeks: A comprehensive year-long course covering major themes in Jewish law, practice, and thought. Explore how a 5,000 year old religion is more relevant today than ever before. This course is open to all who wish to deepen their knowledge and review the fundamentals of Jewish thought and practice. This course is also ideal for those considering conversion. A handout of sources and readings will accompany each topic. Refreshments will be served! Crash Course in Basic Judaism: 3 classes starting Oct. 26 Jewish Time: Nov 16 Lifecycle & Jewish Home: 2 classes starting Nov. 30 Ritual Objects: Dec. 14 Shabbat: 3 classes starting Jan 4
Learn a little from each of the Babylonian Talmud’s 37 volumes.
Jewish Literacy People of the Book: 4 classes starting Jan. 25
Prophetic Women
Jewish Ethics: Feb. 22
“The Book of Samuel: Woman’s Complex Relationships with Men, Children and God” Thursdays at 8:30 am Starting October 19 Shera Aranoff Tuchman
Kashrut: 2 classes starting March 8 Fundamentals of Faith: March 22 Jewish History: 4 classes starting April 12
Explore the profound insights and relevance of our tradition derived from the weekly Torah reading as it is filtered through the prism of classical Jewish commentaries of the last 2,500 years.
Saturday Night KJ Conversations Spirituality November 11 Rabbi David Ingber and Rabbi Elie Weinstock More Tech, More Wealth, Less Judaism? December 9 Batsheva Neuer and Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz Israel/Zionism January 27 Winning the Jewish Future Means Engaging Millennials February 10 Aliza Kline Founding Director of One Table and Rabbi Daniel Kraus
Dr. William Major Memorial Advanced Shiur in Talmud Sunday mornings following 8:30 am services and breakfast Rabbi Dr. Jeremy Wieder Continuing our study of Masekhet Avodah Zarah with its classical commentaries.
Judaism Today: 3 classes starting May 10
Teshuva Shiur
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Tuesday, September 26 at 7:30 pm Rabbi Ari Berman, President of Yeshiva University
Community Wednesday Senior Lunch ‘n Learn Hosted by Donna Silverman, participants 55 and older are invited to eat and listen to an impressive array of guest speakers offering presentations on a variety of topics of Jewish Interest. The program begins begins on October 18 at 11:30 am with “The Yiddish Schmoozers” led by Rabbi Mayer Moskowitz, followed by lunch and fascinating talks by KJ Rabbis and distinguished guest presenters.
Cultural Events Presented by the KJ Men’s Club for the entire community President. Dr. Mark Meirowitz mensclub@ckj.org Programs include: Kiddush Discussions, film screenings, book discussions; weekly Seudah Shlishit guest speakers, and the Sunday Supper Lecture series. Book Discussions Authors to Include: Jonathan Levi: Septimania Howard Teich: Hear Our Voice: One Israel Standing Up for Judea, Samaria, and Jerusalem Tevi Troy: Shall We Tell the President? Two Centuries of Disaster Management from the Oval Office Ilse Weber: Dancing on a Powder Keg Kiddush Discussions Presenters to Include: Dr. Nick Gura, Natalie Sopinsky, Israel Max, Dr. Adena Berkowitz, Zev Brenner, and Judge Alvin Hellerstein Film Screening The Women’s Balcony
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UJA @ KJ KJ Sisterhood: A Community for Giving and Receiving The women in the KJ community have always found the Sisterhood to be a home within a home. We would love to have you join us. At nearly every Sisterhood event, money is raised to benefit one of the charities we support, including the KJ Benevolent Fund and Ramaz. You can co-chair an event or offer your home as a venue. Or just come to an event to be with friends and meet new people. Contact us if you would like more information on how to get involved.
UJA @ KJ is a partnership between KJ members and UJAFederation of New York that affords members opportunities to utilize the resources of UJAFederation. With an assortment of causes and agencies in need of our support, UJA at KJ enables KJ members to become involved and exposed to the important work of UJA-Federation in New York, Israel and around the world. Programs 2017–2018 UJA @ KJ Pre-Thanksgiving Meal at Project ORE Sunday, Nov. 19 at 11:00 a.m. UJA @ KJ Chanukah Celebration Sun., Dec. 10 at 11:30 a.m.
Carla Tanz, President (carlatanz@gmail.com)
UJA @ KJ Site Visit Date and time TBD
Ariel Sebag, Vice President (sebagariel@gmail.com)
UJA @ KJ Purim Celebration Sunday, February 25
See ckj.org/sisterhood for dates and details.
UJA @ KJ Lunch and Learn Wednesday, May 2 at 11:30 a.m.
Fall events to include: Sisterhood Night Out, Sisterhood Game Night, Sotheby’s Judaica Tour, Chanukah Boutique Spring events to include: Sisterhood Cooking Event, Sisterhood Challah Bake, Spring Luncheon, Sisterhood Book Event, Sisterhood Museum Tour
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Rebecca Zimilover: ZimiloverR@ujafedny.org 212.836.1356
CHESED Chevra Kadisha
Shabbat Hospitality Let’s build a warm and welcoming KJ community. Are you new to the community? Do you still feel like you’re new to the community or not sufficiently connected? If you’re interested in meeting new people, hosting members, or being hosted, please contact Welcome@ckj.org.
THANKS to the commitment of so many dedicated KJ members, there are a tremendous number of chesed initiatives available right here in the KJ community! Get involved!
Bikur Cholim For over 35 years, a dedicated group of KJ members have been visiting patients at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Hospital. For more information, contact Volunteer Coordinator Karen Lerman at Lerman.KarenJ@gmail.com.
Join a dedicated group of men and women performing this sacred mitzvah. Contact Riva Alper for the women’s Chevra Kadisha at riva@ckj.org and contact Isaac Pollak for the men’s Chevra Kadisha at isaac@lgpltd.com.
Dorot Through personal contact with seniors, volunteers help deliver vital services to the elderly and work to forge bonds between the generations. See www.dorotusa.org for volunteer opportunities. For KJ’s Dorot Shabbat Meal Delivery Program, contact Leonard Silverman at LSS@ckj.org.
Hatzolah The Upper East Side Division of volunteer EMTs provide immediate response and the highest quality emergency medical and life saving services to our community, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 212-410-9796 for information.
Save the Date KJ Annual Dinner Saturday night, December 2 Blood Drive Sunday, December 3 Ramaz Dinner Dance Sunday, January 7 Annual Synagogue Meeting Tuesday, April 24
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Mitzvah Toy Campaign This heartfelt program encourages children from Nursery School through Grade 8 to donate one or more of their birthday presents to children in need. For information contact Joanna Kleinhaus at JoannaKleinhaus@gmail.com.
KJ Food Pantry One of the few kosher food pantries in Manhattan, it provides weekly staples as well as fresh fruits and vegetables to those in need in our community. For more information or to volunteer, contact socialworker@ckj.org.
W Connection
Career Network The KJ/Ramaz Career Network endeavors to help members find jobs, or fill a vacancy with a qualified shul member. Contact Larry Kassman at KasTrade@aol.com
KJ Social Worker 212-774-5626 socialworker@ckj.org Danielle Kaufman Herbst, MS, LMSW Social Worker from The Jewish Board via UJA’s Partner in Caring (PIC) program
A grassroots organization created to meet the needs of widows. To learn more about the KJ/Ramaz chapter, contact 212-879-4783 or gabriellamaj@gmail.com.
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Kehilath Jeshurun Mission Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun was founded in 1872, and is situated on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. It is a Modern Orthodox congregation that seeks to foster an abiding commitment to halakhah and mitzvot. The synagogue prides itself in being part of the larger community: a community not only of the Jewish People and the State of Israel, but also of our fellow New Yorkers, Americans, and humankind. It is precisely this type of communal dedication and involvement that defines KJ.
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Connect With KJ facebook.com/ congregationkehilathjeshurun @RabbiChaim @RavElie @rabbidkraus 212-774-5600 Office@ckj.org www.ckj.org
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Who’s Who at KJ
Cantor Mayer Davis graduated Queens College with a B.A. in Jewish Studies and studied at Yeshiva University’s Cantor’s Institute. In addition, he trained under the tutelage of his late father, Cantor Avram Davis, as well as Cantor David Koussevitsky. A versatile vocal performer and songwriter, he has appeared at venues across the country and has been a featured guest soloist with Zamir Chorale. He has been commissioned to compose numerous musical pieces for Jewish liturgy and several of his choral compositions have been performed by various Jewish high school choruses, including the Ramaz Chamber Chorus.
Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz is the Senior Rabbi at KJ. He received his ordination from Yeshiva University, where he was a member of the Gruss Kollel Elyon and received an M.A. in Jewish Philosophy from the Bernard Revel Graduate School, in addition to an M.A. in Education from Adelphi University. Rabbi Steinmetz, a past president of the Montreal Board of Rabbis and Rabbinic Council of Canada, is a frequent contributor to Jewish newspapers and has a popular, frequently updated blog entitled “The Happiness Warrior.”
Rabbi Daniel Kraus is the Director of Community Education at KJ. Daniel is a native of Melbourne, Australia, and graduated Yeshiva University with a B.S. and MBA, completed the Ner LeElef Fellowship at RIETS, and received his ordination from Rabbi Zalman Nechemia Goldberg of Jerusalem. Prior to KJ, Daniel served as the inaugural Director of the Manhattan Jewish Experience (MJE) Downtown location where, together with his wife Rachel, spearheaded the creation of a vibrant community of young Jewish professionals and created a hub of Jewish engagement in Midtown Manhattan for over 7,000 participants. Daniel also served as MJE’s Chief Operating Officer. Outside of KJ, Daniel is the Director of Strategic Partnerships for the Birthright Israel Foundation, where he leads strategic alliances for the Foundation, manages the post-trip engagement strategy for Birthright alumni and Institutional Giving.
Rabbi Elie Weinstock is a veteran of both formal and informal educational programs and a Yeshiva University graduate. He received his Rabbinic ordination from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary and a Masters in Jewish Philosophy from the Bernard Revel Graduate school. Rabbi Weinstock oversees the highly developed KJ Beginners Program and is a member of the Talmud faculty at the Ramaz Middle School. He is Vice President of the New York Board of Rabbis, serves on AIPAC’s National Council, is a participant in the Shalom Hartman Institute’s Rabbinic Leadership Initiative, and shares his thoughts on his “Just Judaism” blog (rabbielieweinstock.blogspot.com). Rabbi Haskel Lookstein joined the rabbinate of Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun in 1958 and serves as Principal Emeritus of the Ramaz School, and Rabbi Emeritus of KJ. He is the Joseph H. Lookstein Professor of Homiletics at Yeshiva, serves as a Vice President of the Beth Din of America, and has served as President of the New York Board of Rabbis, Chairman of the National Rabbinic Cabinet of UJA and President of the Synagogue Council of America. He also was a Commissioner of the New York City Human Rights Commission. He received his B.A. from Columbia College, and earned his ordination, Master’s degree and PhD from Yeshiva University.
Rachel Kraus is the Director of Community Education at KJ. Rachel completed a B.S. from Stern College majoring in marketing with a minor in music, including coursework study at The Juilliard School and holds an MBA from NYU. Rachel is the Vice President of Marketing for the Westfield Corporation, where she leads marketing strategy, partnerships, and brand experience for the World Trade Center retail development project. She has over a decade of experience in teaching informal Jewish education, has taught and lectured in Australia, Belarus, and throughout the US and has been teaching the Matan Bat Mitzvah program in the NY/NJ area for the past decade. Rachel & Daniel are the proud parents of four young children. Rachel and Daniel were among the 2017 Jewish Week’s 36 Under 36 list of emerging Jewish leaders.
Rabbi Dr. Jeremy Wieder is Yeshiva University’s Joseph and Gwendolyn Straus Professor of Talmud in the Mazer Yeshiva Program, a rosh yeshiva at the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary and an adjunct professor of Bible at Yeshiva College. A summa cum laude graduate of Yeshiva College, he was ordained at RIETS, received his MS in American Jewish history from the Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies, and holds a PhD in Judaic studies from New York University. Rabbi Wieder is a prolific scholar on issues of Torah’s relationship with modernity, with more than 900 lectures on Judaism captured on audio and video and available online.
Leonard Silverman is a graduate of Ramaz School, holds a B.A. from Brandeis University, and a J.D. from New York University School of Law. Prior to joining KJ, Leonard was an attorney specializing in complex commercial litigation. As the Congregation’s Executive Director, Leonard oversees many non-rabbinic facets of KJ’s operations. Riva Alper, a graduate of Stern College with an MA in English and Education from Seton Hall University, worked for ArtScroll Publications, taught junior high school English in the US and Israel, and served as director of development at American Friends of Reuth Medical Center before joining KJ. She brings with her the perspective and dedication which she developed over the years as a member and lay leader of the Congregation.
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Aryana Ritholtz attended the Hebrew Academy of Five Towns and Rockaway and studied in Israel for a year before graduating from Touro College while also earning a degree from Alegra Franco Teacher’s Seminary in Brooklyn. A veteran of Jewish informal educational programs, Aryana now shares her enthusiasm, passion, and vibrant personality with the KJ Youth Department. Dr. Steven Ritholtz graduated from Hebrew Academy of Nassau County, Yeshiva University, and NYU College of Dentistry and is now a practicing dentist in New York City. He uses his past teen experience in various summer programs and the NCSY Summer Kollel in Israel to engage our teens, and he guides our highly acclaimed Shabbat Teen Minyan. Rabbi Dr. Shilo Kramer, Chazan for the KJ Beginners program, is a physician specializing in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and regenerative medicine. He is the Director of Physical Medicine at Complete Wellness P.C. in NYC. He completed a fellowship in Cancer Rehabilitation at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. He received his M.S. degree from the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education at Yeshiva University and is a popular Jewish studies and Bar Mitzvah tutor for the community’s children. Shera Aranoff Tuchman has been teaching a weekly class in Biblical commentary at KJ for the past 20 years. Notes from this class culminated in the publications of two books co-authored with Sandra Rapoport, Passions of the Matriarchs and Moses’ Women, commentaries on the women in Genesis and Exodus, respectively. Shera recently translated over 35 volumes, written by her grandmother, Safta’s Diaries – Intimate Diaries of a Religious Zionist Woman. These diaries depict American Jewish life post World War II and include private and personal family happenings, as well as political and historical writings. The book, just published by KTAV, has been reviewed as a “modern day Gluckel of Hamlen.” Dr. Aranoff also practices Dermatology in Manhattan. Sara Rosen has been with the KJ Adult Education program for over a decade. Born in Jerusalem, she studied education at Beit Berl Teacher’s College and at Columbia University. Among her many skills and teaching methodologies, Sara has developed Phonetic Hebrew Decoding (PHD), an innovative approach to learning Hebrew reading, that simplifies the process and makes it more accessible. In addition to teaching Hebrew at KJ, Sara oversees the Hebrew program at Rodeph Sholom Religious School and teaches Hebrew in their adult education program. Martin Kaufman was formerly Chairman and CEO of Philipp Brothers and now consults in the natural resource sector throughout the world. A long-time member, together with his family, of the KJ/Ramaz community, he was educated at Yeshiva University and New York University’s Graduate School of Business Administration. For many years, Martin has collaborated with YU’s Rabbi Herschel Reichman in the publication and dissemination of the Talmudic shiurim of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik. He has lectured extensively throughout the area including Temple Emanu-El’s Skirball Center, Congregation Orach Chaim, and The 92nd Street Y, as well as the online educational initiatives WebYeshiva and Breslov Campus.
Julia Baruch serves as the Yoetzet Halakhah at KJ and West Side Institutional Synagogue. She studied at the Stella K. Abraham Beit Midrash for Women – Migdal Oz for one year after attending the Ramaz Upper School. Julia graduated from Columbia University cum laude with a B.A. in Psychology and then graduated from Nishmat’s Miriam Glaubach’s Center’s U.S. Yoatzot Halakhah Fellows Program. Julia is pursuing a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. Rabbi Yossi Weiser received his ordination from the Mirrer Yeshiva in Brooklyn. He also has Masters degrees in Jewish History and Guidance Counseling. He is currently a member of the Judaic Studies faculty of the Ramaz Upper School, and is a noted adult educator in Jewish history, philosophy, political science and Bible. Sam Berkovitz is a third year Rabbinical Student in Yeshiva University’s Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary where he is a Katz Kollel Fellow. Sam is also pursuing a Masters degree at the Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies. He studied at Yeshivat Torat Shraga in Jerusalem for 2 years before graduating from Yeshiva College with a degree in Ancient Jewish History. Last year, Sam was a Yeshiva University Kollel Fellow at the Ramaz Upper School, and he is very excited to see some of his former students as he engages with the broader Kehilath Jeshurun community. Rabbi Mayer Moskowitz has been a leader in the the KJ/Ramaz family for 53 years, serving the community as a teacher of Judaic Studies in The Ramaz Upper School and Head Master of Judaic Studies in the Lower School. He was the Baal Tefillah in the auxiliary minyan on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur and now teaches classes as part of the Lunch and Learn program at KJ. Rabbi Moskowitz devotes his life to kindling the Pintaleh Yid. Dr. Benjamin Zalta, an Associate Professor of Radiology in the Cardiothoracic Division at Montefiore Medical Center and a native of Damascus, Syria, has been Chazan at ther KJ Sephardic Minyan since its founding in 2011. He came to New York at the age of 18 to study at Yeshiva University, and went on to earn a medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Steeped in the Syrian musical tradition, Dr. Zalta has served Sephardic congregations in Brooklyn and Deal, NJ and led the Sephardic Services at Fifth Avenue Synagogue for 18 years.
2017–2018: 5778
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