The Jewish Weekly Issue 266 - February 2nd

Israel on high alert after Shabbat terror attacks

BY DAVID SAFFER

Israeli security forces are on high alert and prepared for an escalation in violence from Palestinian militants after two deadly terrorist attacks rocked Jerusalem last Shabbat.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to act decisively against militants. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has called for “calm and stability on the ground”.

There were seven fatalities close to Ateret Avraham Synagogue in the Neve Yaakov neighbourhood after Friday night prayers. The attack took place on International Holocaust Memorial Day.

Palestinian terrorist Alqam Khayri fled the scene but was shot dead by police officers in

“While we are not seeking escalation, we are prepared for any possibility,” he said. “Our answer to terrorism is an iron fist and a powerful, swift and precise response.”

Netanyahu added: “The terrorists seek to slaughter us indiscriminately, we must all unite as one in the relentless fight against them.”

Gallant confirmed security forces had made widespread arrests for those supporting, assisting and inciting terrorism. He added: “We are deploying forces. We are reinforcing units and we are doing this in various sectors. While we are not seeking escalation, we are prepared for any scenario.”

Gallant called on Israeli citizens not to take the law into their own hands.

President Isaac Herzog commented: “Whatever disagreements we may have between us, against our enemies, who want to harm us and rise up to kill us, we must maintain our unity. I call on everyone to remain alert and act responsibly in these times.”

Pope Francis appealed to Israel and the Palestinians to engage in dialogue in the pursuit of peace.

“It is with great pain that I hear of the news coming from the Holy Land,” he said. “The spiral of death which is growing every day does nothing but kill the little trust that there is between these two peoples,” he said. “I appeal to the two governments and the international community, and I ask them to find immediately, without wasting any time, other paths which include dialogue and the sincere search for peace.”

The United States and UK government condemned the attack.

President Joe Biden told Netanyahu the attack was one against the “civilised world”. Biden offered “ironclad US commitment to Israel’s security”.

Secretary of State Anthony Blinken blasted Palestinian celebrations after the attacks on arrival for talks in the region. He called on Israel and the Palestinians to take “urgent steps to restore calm”.

Blinken saw Netanyahu after a meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

“It’s the responsibility of everyone to take steps to calm tensions rather than inflame them,” Blinken said. “That is the only way to halt the rising tide of violence that has taken too many lives, too many Israelis, too many Palestinians.” He added: “Taking innocent lives in an act of terror is always a

heinous crime, but doing so outside their place of worship is especially shocking.”

Blinken noted that Egypt had an important role to promote stability in the region.

Blinken met with Herzog and Gallant before travelling to see Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas in Ramallah on Tuesday where he stated his “sorrow” for innocent Palestinian civilians lost in the past 12 months but also “deep concern about the current trajectory” for a two-state solution.

Blinken called for “constructive ideas” from each side to foster greater cooperation. Senior members of his team are continuing discussions.

UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said in a statement: “To attack worshippers at a synagogue on Holocaust Memorial Day, and during Shabbat, is horrific. We stand with our Israeli friends.”

European Jewish Congress President Ariel Muzicant blasted the terrorists.

“There is no political, military or any other motive for targeting Jewish worshippers on Shabbat, and on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, other than sheer hatred of Jews and the Jewish state,” he said. “Attacking people on their way to prayer is a pure act of naked terror for people who hold no value for the sanctity of human life.”

Regarding the teenage militant, Muzicant said: “When levels of hate reach the minds of children so that they regard murder of civilians as a warped act of resistance, we genuinely need to demand action against the texts and the methods of education which dominate the Palestinian school system.”

He added: “Our solidarity with Israel is unflinching. No acts of terror must be allowed to deny the continued peaceful celebration of a Shabbat in Jerusalem.

“We call on the international community to provide Israel with the necessary backing and support to ensure the safety and security of its people. Hate, violence, murder, fanaticism and antisemitism must never be allowed to succeed, not for the direct perpetrators but neither for their political masters in Ramallah and Gaza, nor for their supporters in the international community.”

Among the victims were Asher Natan, Ilya Sosanssky, Eli and Natali Mizrachi and Refael Ben Eliyahu. An unnamed Ukrainian worker, also died.

The IDF killed 10 Palestinian militants a day before the attacks in a security operation in Judea and Samaria.

PA to the

• Abilty to work from home

• Knowledge of basic programs including Office 365 and Dropbox

• Very organised and efficient

• Good telephone manner

• Knowledge of bookkeeping including account management and Quickbooks

• Knowledge of managing CRM systems.

•

Secretary of State Blinken and Prime Minister Netanyahu

PHOTO: GPO

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Disgraced minister Sizer banned for 12 years

BY ADAM MOSES

A Church of England Tribunal has banned The Revd Dr Stephen Sizer from serving as a Clerk of Holy Orders for 12 years. The disgraced minister is unable to act as a minister until 2030.

The case was brought by the Board of Deputies who welcomed the decision.

BoD President Marie van der Zyl described the ruling as “unambiguous”.

She noted: “Given that he (Sizer) indulged in ‘antisemitic activity’ and caused grievous offence to the Jewish community over a number of years, this is the correct decision. I am grateful to the Tribunal for hearing our evidence and look forward to a continued strong and close relationship with the Church of England in the coming years.”

The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Justin Welby, issued a statement following the judgment of the Bishop’s Disciplinary Tribunal for the Diocese of Winchester.

The Archbishop said that Sizer’s behaviour had “undermined Christian-Jewish relations” and had given “encouragement to conspiracy theories and tropes that have no place in public Christian ministry and the church”.

He added: “I renew my call for the highest possible standards among ordained ministers of the Church of England in combatting antisemitism of all kinds.”

Ms van der Zyl thanked her predecessor

as President, Jonathan Arkush, who worked tirelessly on the case. They brought 12 complaints between 2005 and 2018. Evidence by both was vital to the verdict. Four allegations were upheld last December. The Board hailed an “unprecedented” ruling. One allegation against the retired priest was deemed antisemitic.

The most serious allegation related to the former Vicar posting 9/11 conspiracy theories.

A link on his Facebook page in 2015 blamed Israel for 9/11. The Tribunal, chaired by Worshipful David Pittaway KC, found the article in its tone and content “truly shocking”. Promoting Israel was behind terrorist attacks on 9/11 was deemed “antisemitic activity” by the Tribunal.

In an interview on 30 March 2018 on Australian radio, Sizer defended his 9/11 link. The Tribunal accepted evidence that the Jewish community were “offended” by

Sizer’s answers to questions.

Of particular concern was Sizer’s assertion that a number of Israelis had “benefited from 9/11”.

On this allegation, the Tribunal viewed Sizer’s conduct “unbecoming” of an ordained minister but did not consider it antisemitic activity.

Regarding a meeting with Sheikh Nabil Kaouk, a senior commander of Hezbollah forces in 2006, the Tribunal accepted the Jewish community were “provoked and offended” by posting a photograph on his website. Sizer had shown a “lack of sensitivity to the Jewish community”, noted the tribunal.

Ms van der Zyl commended the Tribunal’s decision.

Seven allegations of antisemitism were not proven. But the Tribunal accepted evidence that the Jewish community were “provoked and offended” on allegations including Sizer speaking alongside Holocaust deniers, sharing alleged antisemitic material and posting an item that Jeremy Corbyn was a victim of the “hidden hands of Zionists”.

Sizer was vicar of Christ Church, Virginia Water, in Surrey. He denied claims of antisemitism and misconduct arguing his actions were against the State of Israel not Jews.

The panel included The Reverend Geoffrey Eze, The Reverend Canon Liz Hughes, Canon Andrew Halstead and Ms Gabrielle Higgins.

Trusted wealth management for the community

Reverend Dr Stephen Sizer

PHOTO: FACEBOOK

King leads IHMD commemoration

BY DAVID SAFFER

King Charles III and The Queen Consort led the UK’s commemoration of International Holocaust Memorial Day with an audience at Buckingham Palace last Friday.

Dr Martin Stern, who was five when he was taken to a Nazi concentration camp, and Amouna Adam, who grew up as a member of the persecuted Fur tribe in Darfu, gave testimonies.

The King and Queen Consort heard about ongoing work by the Holocaust Education Trust to ensure the lessons of the past are not forgotten. They then lit a candle in remembrance for victims of genocide at the conclusion of the audience in a national moment of commemoration and solidarity.

Candles were lit in windows around the world to ‘Light The Darkness’ as part of global events on the world on the 78th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau.

Parliamentarians joined commemorations headed by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who met with Holocaust survivor Arek Hersh and said that his message was a “powerful reminder” of our duty to remember the truth of the Holocaust, to fight antisemitism and hatred.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly led a memorial service at the Foreign Office.

Wales Secretary David TC Davies attended a service at Cardiff United Synagogue and met Cardiff-based survivors Eva Gibbor and

Terry Farago-Nogaidi.

Former Chancellor Sajid Javid led the annual Holocaust Memorial Day debate in the House of Commons.

CFI Chairman Stephen Crabb thanked the Government for its “strong commitment” to fight antisemitism.

CFI Officer Bob Blackman noted: “Antisemitism is not new and it was not new in the 1930s. Jewish people have been subjected to antisemitism throughout Europe since the middle ages.”

Nicola Richards condemned antisemitism on UK university campuses.

Matthew Offord called for tougher measures by the Crown Prosecution Service against antisemitism.

Sunak, meantime, announced legislation for construction of the new National Holocaust Memorial next to Parliament in Victoria Towers Garden.

The Holocaust Memorial Bill will update legislation to remove a statutory obstacle.

He noted: “As the remaining survivors become older and fewer in number, it is vital that we push ahead with the Memorial which is supported by all major political parties.”

Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove added: “We are committed to building the Memorial next to Parliament, a site which reflects its national significance and is close to other important memorials including the Cenotaph. We owe it to Holocaust survivors, to the British people

and future generations to remember where hatred can lead.

The Lord Eric Pickles and Ed Balls, cochairs of the UK Holocaust Memorial Foundation said in a statement: “We have a duty to create this memorial to make sure that the memory and the truth of the Holocaust is preserved.”

Planning consent for the Holocaust Memorial was granted in July 2021 but the decision was quashed by the High Court in April 2022 due to legislation from 1900.

Javid welcomed the announcement stating

that it had been a “long road” and the memorial would make an “immense difference”.

Dame Joanna Lumley handed out commemorative HMD candles on Friday to commuters in Central London. She was joined by Holocaust survivors Joan Salter and Martin Stern and Rwanda survivor Antoinette Mutabazi.

She commented: “I hope that by handing out these candles and inviting people to light them we can provide people with an opportunity to remember those who were murdered for being who they were, and to reflect on ways that they can challenge hatred and prejudice today.”

Screens in Piccadilly Circus displayed photographs of the Holocaust and genocide survivors. Screens displayed winning portraits from the Ordinary Portraits youth arts competition. With support of Speaker of the House Lindsay Hoyle the portraits are on display in Parliament.

Thousands of HMD activities have been taking place in communities around the UK and will continue in the coming days.

Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, politicians, Holocaust survivors and faith leaders attended the UK Ceremony.

AJEX supported the UK’s HMD campaign to remember those who were murdered.

“We stand together against prejudice and hatred,” noted National Chair Dan Fox. “Resistance was as much a part of fighting in occupied Europe as the war on the front lines, at sea, and in the air. Hundreds of thousands of Jews effectively served with the allies through resistance and partisan warfare. They are a key factor in understanding the Holocaust and the eventual allied victory.”

JNF UK is raising funds to transform communities and change lives in Israel’s poorest neighbourhoods.

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King Charles III

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

Muzicant expresses concern over Holocaust

BY ADAM MOSES

European Jewish Congress President, Dr Ariel Muzicant, expressed deep concern that the lessons of the Holocaust are being forgotten.

Senior EU officials, MEPs, ambassadors and civil society leaders marked International Holocaust Remembrance Day and vowed to fight antisemitism.

They vowed to honour the memory of Holocaust survivor Simone Veil, a former French Minister of Health and first President of the European Parliament.

“In today’s dangerous political climate where war, uncertainty and despair cloud our horizon, we need to continue fighting against those that threaten democracy and human rights,” Dr Muzicant said. “We must not lose our determination to fight these forces, because if we refuse to fight, hatred and intolerance will prevail.

“This year, as we also mark the 80th anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, those heroes and their ultimate sacrifice, must be an inspiration to us all. Their legacy directs us to continue the fight against those who once again are challenging our societies with their discrimination, racism and antisemitism.”

Nicola Beer, member of the European Parliament and Chair of the Working Group against Antisemitism, said that no one must forget what happened.

“We must honour those who suffered and prevent such terrible crimes from ever happening again,” she said. “Sadly, in today’s world, we still have to fight against antisemitism and religious discrimination, but I am determined that it is a fight worth fighting.”

Beer added: “Every single person in this

room can do something. Speak up, create awareness, fight for justice and don’t ignore what should be blatantly obvious to everyone, making people feel unwelcome or inadequate due to their religion, their beliefs, their appearance or any other criteria is not only heartless. It is inacceptable.”

French philosopher, filmmaker and playwright Bernard-Henri Levy spoke about the current state of antisemitism, intolerance and discrimination.

“I'm pessimistic and optimistic,” he said. “Of course, antisemitism has not disappeared and certainly reinvents itself, because now it’s all about Israel. In this sense, I see the way the devil reincarnates itself at every step of our history. However, I'm also optimistic because there are strong forces of resistance against it, being led by Jewish organisations, like the EJC, which holds firm and delivers on its pledge to fight antisemitism. This didn't exist 40 years ago.”

He added: “There is a pride, a self-affirmation and a calm about the new way of being a Jew today, especially when I think how undefended the Jews were when I was a teenager, when we had no weapons, and many were even ashamed of being a Jew. When you are ashamed and shy, and you don't dare to accept your identity, you are vulnerable.”

Around Europe there were many events including in France where Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne presented a plan to fight against racism, antisemitism and discrimination. Borne called for increased training for teachers, civil servants, sports educators and volunteers for the 2024 Olympic Games.

Italian Prime Minister has appointed Giuseppe Pecoraro as National coordinator to fight antisemitism.

President of the Union of Italian Jewish Communities, Noemi Di Segni, said the post was “an essential safeguard” and “important signal”.

The Jewish community of Montenegro, meantime, launched an exhibition ‘Holocaust: Destroyed Synagogues’ by pupils at two schools.

A collection of 21 paintings showed synagogues destroyed under Nazi regime during Holocaust.

Ms Nina Ofner Bokan, President of the Jewish community, said: “Keeping the memory of the Holocaust alive is the fulfilment a duty to humanity. We owe it to victims of the Holocaust, we owe it to the survivors, we owe it to all the generation to come.”

The exhibition was opened by Minister of Justice Mr. Marko Kovac. He noted: “Commemorating the victims of Holocaust, we warn of the terrible crimes committed against innocent people.”

Ariel Muzicant

PHOTO: WJC

Development Company for Israel (International)

Dayan and Guterres unveil Shoah exhibition at UN

BY HARRY SIMONS

Yad Vashem Chairman Dani Dayan and United Nations Secretary General António Guterres unveiled the ‘Book of Names of Holocaust Victims’ at UN Headquarters in New York.

The exhibition was part of activities of the United Nations Outreach Programme to mark International Holocaust Memorial Day.

The installation features the names of 4,800,000 Holocaust victims in Yad Vashem's database of Shoah Victims' Names. The length of the Book of Names is eight meters. A strip of light runs the length illuminating the memory of Jewish men, women children murdered during the Holocaust.

Blank pages at the end symbolise over a million people to be recovered.

In his UN address, Dayan recalled his great-uncles Nahman and Arieh murdered during the Shoah. He spoke of a “deeply moving experience” when he found lost relatives and friends in the book.

“Tragically we cannot revive even one of the millions that they murdered, but we can, and do, restore their names and stories,” he said. “We do this because the victims deserve no less.

"History never repeats itself exactly, but the phenomena of extreme antisemitism and other racial hatreds, aggressive violence and corrupt dictatorships are recurring. To combat and overcome them, we can and must learn from the Shoah. And we start that by faithfully and accurately remembering its victims. That is why the Book of Names is here now.”

“The six million Jewish men, women and children are lost forever but their memories and their names will never be forgotten," said UN Secretary General Guterres. “This exhibition is a call to action. It is a call to remembrance, as fewer and fewer can be direct witnesses, and we will have to find a way to carry the Torch of Remembrance forward."

The installation will be brought to Israel to be permanently included in Yad Vashem's Museum's Complex. It will be open to public viewing for Israel's Yom Hashoah on 17-18 April.

Yad Vashem's ready2print exhibition ‘Shoah: How was it Humanly Possible?’ was unveiled at the European Parliament in Brussels by President Isaac Herzog who presented President Roberta Metsola with a copy of ‘The Refugee’ from Yad Vashem's Art Collection.

The artwork was created by German Jewish artist and Holocaust victim Felix Nussbaum when he was in hiding in 1939.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu led commemorations from Israel.

He said: “Israel protects itself by itself. We have built up a powerful state that will not allow our enemies to inflict the very pain, suffering and devastating loss our people experienced during the Holocaust.”

He added: “If needed, we can and will defend ourselves, we will not allow our enemies to possess an ability to carry out its murderous agenda. We do not forget or forgive the evil deniers of the Holocaust, which for them, one Holocaust was not enough. I vow to you as Prime Minister of the one and only Jewish state, that we will remain vigilant, strong and never allow the Holocaust to happen again.”

Yad Vashem, meantime, hosted its annual symposium for international diplomatic corps.

The event featured lectures. The Central Theme was ‘Jewish Resistance during the Holocaust: 80 Years since the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising’.

Minister of Education Yoav Kish delivered a keynote address. Zambian Ambassador Martin Mwanambala spoke and Dayan gave an address by video link.

In Brussels, Herzog addressed the European Parliament and recalled how his father, Israel’s Sixth President, Chaim Herzog, was a British Army officer and one of the first liberators of Bergen-Belsen.

“Millions of worlds, one third of the Jewish people were wiped out in the killing pits, in the gas chambers, in the furnaces, in the death camps,” he said.

Herzog noted that Jew-hatred was as “old as time itself” and warned about rising antisemitism.

He observed: “Jew-hatred still exists. Antisemitism still exists. Holocaust denial still exists. The latest reports point to new records of hatred as antisemitism continues to don new guises.

“Viral antisemitism is spreading at a record pace. Antisemites draw inspiration from virtual platforms. They are brainwashed and enraged as a result of unchecked and unrestrained online discourse.”

Herzog called on elected officials of Europe to read the warning signs, detect the “symptoms of the pandemic of antisemitism” and fight it at all costs.

“You must ensure that every Jew wanting to live a full Jewish life in your countries may do so safely,” he said. “Use every tool at your disposal from education and legislation to security and enforcement, to deter and eradicate hatred, racism and antisemitism in all their forms. You must instil the understanding across Europe that the Jewish people’s right to national and sovereign self-determination is sacred, and

manifested in our democratic state, the State of Israel.”

Herzog called on members to fully adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism.

He added: “Criticism of the State of Israel must not cross the line into negation of the very existence of the State of Israel. The rule is simple, criticism of us must pass the basic test of fairness and integrity and it must not cross the line into dehumanisation or delegitimisation.

“The State of Israel rose like a phoenix out of the ashes and the terrible destruction and realised our historic right to a state in our ancient homeland.”

Herzog welcomed alliances with European states and institutions of the European Union.

He said: “Our shared interests and values dictate our present and shape our future. Liberty, equality, justice and peace, these are the fundamental values enshrined in the Declaration of Independence of the State of Israel, which we shall uphold and defend at any cost. These are also the core values of the European Union.”

Herzog added: “We must work together as a single community, determined and cohesive, against the forces of darkness and hatred that threaten to destroy us.”

President Isaac Herzog speaking at the European Parliament in Brussels

Herzog meets EC President in Brussels

BY SIMCHA ABIR

President Isaac Herzog and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen discussed Israel-European Union relations in Brussels last week.

Trade, agriculture, tourism, aviation and culture were on the agenda. Herzog hopes to develop cooperation also in energy, food security and climate change.

The leaders met the day before Herzog addressed the European Parliament to mark International Holocaust Remembrance Day. He said. “We have common challenges and so much to share in doing good for the world.”

Regarding the Iranian threat, Herzog commented: “Iran is fighting Ukrainian citizens by supplying drones and lethal weapons, endangering the world by rushing toward nuclear capabilities, killing and torturing its own citizens. It is about time that Europe takes a very firm stance on Iran as it is a challenge not only to Israel, the region, the Middle East, but also to Europe and the world.

“The Abraham Accords have made a huge change. It is a sea change in world affairs, perhaps the only positive development in world affairs in recent times. We are moving forward, we are looking for more partners in the Abraham Accords, and they are

bringing new spirit in the region.”

Herzog thanked von der Leyen for leading the fight against antisemitism. “It’s raising its ugly head in the world and in Europe,” he noted. “It starts with antisemitism but it never ends with it.”

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola told Herzog that democracy cannot be taken for granted.

“The EU and Israel are tied by a close friendship based on democracy, open society and rule of law,” Mesola said. “These are values which can never be taken for granted. We will never be silent when it comes to standing up for freedom, peace, and equality.”

During a packed schedule, Herzog visited

the Great Synagogue in Brussels.

Cantor Benjamin Muller recited the Prayer for the State of Israel composed by Herzog’s grandfather, Rabbi Yitzhak Isaac HaLevi Herzog.

The President of the Synagogue Beth Israel, Alain Prync, attended with 500 members of the Jewish communities of Brussels and Antwerp. Ambassador Idit Rosenzweig-Abu and Philippe Markewicz, President of the Consistoire Central Israélite de Belgique, were also present.

Herzog and the Chief Rabbi of the Great Synagogue, Albert Guigui, gave an address.

Herzog said: “The Jewish communities of Belgium are an integral part of our beautiful Jewish tapestry. The Israeli collective is debating real questions that have direct bearing on the democratic and Jewish dimensions of our beloved country. But I remind us that reckoning with the tough questions has always been part of our Jewish heritage.”

Israel’s President also visited the Athénée Ganenou Jewish school in Brussels.

Herzog was welcomed by primary school, bar and bat mitzvah program pupils. He also met with Ganenou’s highschool students

Herzog called on pupils to ask questions when you hear or read about Israel.

Chairman of the Board of Governors, Benjamin Ariel, High School head teacher, Lionelle Lamy, and the school’s President, Fredy Goldberg, spoke at a special ceremony.

President Herzog with Jewish communal leaders

President Herzog and President von der Leyen

PHOTO: GPO

PHOTO: GPO

Ukraine war impacting Europe Disturbing Dutch Shoah poll

Over half of Dutch adults (54%) are unaware six million Jews died in the Holocaust according to a new survey.

The disturbing poll showed 59% of Millennials and Generation Z respondents, who are under 40 years of age, thought a maximum of two million were murdered during the Shoah. And 22% of this demographic thought it acceptable for someone to support neo-Nazi ideology.

The Netherlands is the worst of any country surveyed relating to Holocaust facts.

Arguably the worst figures showed 23% of Millennials and Generation Z, and 12% of adults, believed the Holocaust was a myth. Approaching a third of adults had no idea Anne Frank died in a concentration camp, 53% adults and 60% of Millennials and Generation Z did not believe the Netherlands was affected by the Holocaust; 60% of respondents named Auschwitz as a death camp, this included 52 % of Millennials and Generation Z.

US-based Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany polled 2,000 Dutch adults.

Conference President Gideon Taylor said: “Survey after survey, we continue to witness a decline in Holocaust knowledge and awareness. Equally disturbing is the trend towards Holocaust denial and distortion.”

Taylor called for more education in schools globally. 77% of those polled backed education.

BY LEAH WAXLER

Religious leaders discussed the impact of the war in Ukraine on the European way of life last Friday.

Convened by the European Commission the gathering heard faith perspectives.

Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, President of the Conference of European Rabbis represented Jewish communities and reflected on his experiences having fled Moscow in February 2022 as he refused to back Vladimir Putin’s actions.

“Taking a moral stance is of vital importance,” he said.

“As the Chief Rabbi in Moscow for over three decades I focused on what many here would consider the role of a faith leader to be. I served as a pastoral guide to the Jewish community of Moscow, issued rabbinic rulings, lead services and gave sermons.”

He added: “I learnt most starkly another role of a faith leader. Mounting pressure was put on community leaders to support Putin’s invasion and I refused to do so.”

Chief Rabbi Goldschmidt spoke of the need to remember the past, particularly International Holocaust Memorial Day, which was the day of the meeting.

He cited a recent survey by the Claims Conference that nearly a quarter of Dutch people born after 1980 believe the Holocaust was a myth or that victims were greatly exaggerated.

Noting increased antisemitism in Russia, Chief Rabbi Goldschmidt commented, “When we look back over Russian history, whenever the political system began to shake and a crisis took hold, the government tried to redirect the anger and discontent of the masses by channelling it towards the Jewish community.

“We saw this in Tsarist times and at the end of the Stalinist regime. Now, we are witnessing this again across Russia. Step by step, the iron curtain is coming down once again, and hatred towards the Jewish community

is rising. We must not only remember and reflect on the past, but also stare down the future head on and be prepared, as faith leaders, to take a moral stance.”

European Commission Vice-President Margaritis Schinas delivered the opening address on how the war has changed the face of Europe.

Dr. Bernhard Felmberg, Archbishop Antoine Herouard, Rev Christian Krieger, Frans van Daele, Othmar Karas and Bishop Asa Nystrom were among those that attended.

Religious leaders came together to discuss the War in Ukraine

Where is the anger?

OPINION PIECE

BY ROBERT FESTENSTEIN

Last Friday night, the 27th January 2023, seven people were gunned down and murdered outside a shul in the Jerusalem neighbourhood of Neve Yaakov.

The response in the UK from the Jewish Community was swift, expressing the usual wish that the memories of the dead be for blessing, and that the wounded make a swift recovery. This heartfelt statement was repeated around the country in a sad outpouring of solidarity.

There was though something missing. The outrage. Where was the rage that 7 ordinary Jews, doing what many of us do on Shabbat should be murdered just because they are Jews. This wasn’t an indiscriminate bomb on a bus or train, or a shooting or stabbing in a crowded shopping centre, this was a deliberate attack on a specific target – Jews at prayer. So I ask again, where is the fury that should accompany such an atrocity.

We have I believe become inured to such attacks, so that the press releases,

well intentioned though they are, do not go far enough. Let there be no mistake, the Palestinian leadership might effectively be a dictatorship, nevertheless it reflects the views of many Palestinians in their hatred of the Jews. The Jerusalem Post reported that…“Celebrations, including fireworks and guns being shot in the air, were witnessed in Jenin, Gaza and other Palestinian areas in the West Bank.” Even the BBC picked up on this horror. How disgusting is that, and how profoundly disturbing that this was not all.

Steve Winston, Managing Director of the National Jewish Association, said “That

a 13 year old Palestinian child felt emboldened to then shoot 2 Israeli Jews is as disturbing as it is utterly shocking, and bolsters the longstanding assertions by Israel that the Palestinian leaders’ incitement to terrorism encourages its children to hate to the point that they want to go out and kill Jews.”

So what is the answer and how do we respond in a way that lasts and not just arrange a cosy rally with the usual people attending who then go home and do nothing until the next time. I repeat what I have already said, and that is that we should not be bleating on about the

sanctity of the two state solution when it is manifestly obvious the Palestinians have no interest in any solution other than the destruction of Israel. For confirmation of this, look no further than the 13 year old child who felt it acceptable trying to murder Jews.

Our response should be one of anger, intense and profound anger. The problem though is that as a minority, we have succeeded in becoming part of the establishment. Honours are given to our leaders and access to Government at largely every level is readily granted. This is a remarkable achievement, but it comes at a price, and that is a deep-seated reticence to complaint about anything Government related. How can this Government carry on making payments to the Palestinian Authority when it continues to subsidise terrorists. Surely we should be protesting about this, loudly.

Robert Festenstein is a practising solicitor and has been the principal of his Salford based firm for over 20 years. He has fought BDS motions to the Court of Appeal and is President of the Zionist Central Council in Manchester which serves to protect and defend the democratic State of Israel.

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Our response should be one of anger, intense and profound anger. The problem though is that as a minority, we have succeeded in becoming part of the establishment.

Bridge

With Harold Schogger

Dealer: South Vuln: None

Jnetics Young Professionals supper quiz

W N E S

1. Michaels: at least 5/5 in the majors 2. Splinter 3. Cue bids 1NT = 15-17 Lead Ks

West led the king of spades and declarer saw that the best plan was to set up dummy’s clubs. (The danger of ruffing three hearts in dummy was setting up a trump trick in East’s hand.) After ducking the first spade (not such a clear play as there could be a spade discard on the clubs and a trump loser; nevertheless, not unreasonable) and winning the spade continuation, declarer ruffed a spade. This confirmed that West began with exactly five spades. If declarer was to set up the clubs, he needed them to be no worse than 4:2. Also, the contract would fail if East had four trumps. So declarer played on the assumption that West began with a 5:5:1:2 shape.

After the ace of trumps, declarer cashed the ace and king of clubs then ruffed a club. He returned to dummy with a trump to the queen and then ruffed another club. All that remained for declarer to do was to cash the ace of hearts, ruff a heart with the nine of trumps and draw East’s last trump with dummy’s king. Trick 13 was won with the established jack of clubs. He made 1 Spade,1 Heart, 5 Diamonds, 2 Clubs, 1 established Club and 2 Heart ruffs.

In January, Jnetics in conjunction with Kinloss (Finchley United Synagogue) ran Jnetics first Young Professionals supper quiz, which over 200 Young Professionals attended! Jnetics Marketing & Events Manager Nicole Levy welcomed guests to the event, and this was followed by a more formal introduction from Jnetics Young Professionals Committee Chair, Dr Avi Korman. Avi captivated the audience as he talked about the committee’s involvement within the charity and emphasised the importance of the work Jnetics does within the community in order to save lives. In Avi’s words

“Prevention is better than a cure, all you need to do is do a ‘cheeky’ swab test to find out your carrier status and ensure babies are born free from Jewish genetic disorders.”

The quiz consisted of eight rounds on various topics including sports, music, food and drink, tv and film to name a few and there was a bonus round on Jewish genetic disorders to test guests’ knowledge. This was a great way to see what they had learnt about the charity during the evening. Jnetics also ran a prize raffle consisting of donated prizes including vouchers from Tony Page’s restaurant, Sushi Haven, a luxury beauty bundle, and lots more. The room

was buzzing and the atmosphere electric. Jnetics has received very positive feedback from guests. One girl who attended sent a message to say “I work for another organisation, and I know how much work goes into these events before during and after and I hope you are proud of yourselves. It was a seamlessly run event and was very engaging. Thank you very much for a great evening and I hope you raised a lot of money!”. The event fell nicely into ‘GENEuary’ – Jewish genetic disorders awareness month and the event will become an annual event in Jnetics calendar where we plan to expand and grow the event to cater for even more young professionals.

Nicole Gordon, Jnetics CEO, summed up the evening “I am immensely proud of the young committee, who have worked tirelessly to ensure tonight is nothing less than a success” She concluded the night by encouraging the audience to take the test not the risk, and come forward to get screened.

Jnetics is always looking for new members to join our Young Professionals Committee if you are interested in joining or would like information on our next YP event please email info@jnetics.org.

Jnetics supper quiz

A special Holocaust Memorial Day morning assembly was held at Manchester’s King David Primary School. Six Memorial Candles were lit, followed by the pupils standing for a minute’s silence for the 1.5 million Jewish Children who were murdered.

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL Holocaust Memorial Day at King David Primary

Aish Manchester take 40 Year 11 students to Wales for Shabbaton

Aish Manchester took Forty Year 11 students away for a Heroes-themed Shabbaton in the beautiful location of Penmaenmawr, in Wales. The group were joined by Aish madrichim and madrichot Saul and Chani Bishop, Mai Ozon, Natan Levene, Emily Mocton and Debbie Bittan.

The weekend began with students preparing desserts and shabbat food together before enjoying a weekend of social and educational activities focusing on the theme of heroes. The students discussed how to define what a hero is, learning and discussing about heroes in Jewish history and finally how they are at the center of the Jewish future.

The group enjoyed the good weather and walked down to the beach on Shabbat then heading back for a musical Havdalah and an evening scavenger hunt.

Zak a student said: “I loved everything, the atmosphere was amazing and it was really special to me. Being together with everyone with all of the singing and dancing is such a great experience and I loved every part of it”

Eytan another student said: “I made so many great memories this shabbaton with all my friends and i learnt valuable lessons about Judaism and on life.”

Rabbi Zvi Gefen from Aish Manchester commented: “Aish Manchester had only

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planned for one shabbaton this year for year 11, however after the success of last year’s Shabbaton the students really wanted another one. We felt if the students were asking for this immersive Jewish experience we

should definitely give them one. Within a short space of time we put this most memorable weekend and Shabbos together. Over the space of the weekend students were able to connect and spend time together whilst

also engaging in a variety of Jewish topics whilst in a relaxed environment. We all had an amazing time with the students and are looking forward to the next Shabbaton together.”

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Aish Manchester Shabbaton

North West successful matched funding drive

Norwood Quiz raises £20k

Willesden-based community primary school North West London Jewish Day School celebrated raising more than £325,000 in a successful matched giving campaign on Monday evening, following a bonus round of fundraising. The initial aim had been to raise £300,000 to redress the school’s income shortfall, but due to the unprecedented generosity of supporters from within the school community, alumni and across the Jewish community, the school was able to exceed that.

Funds raised will go towards staff costs, to facilitate the higher-than-average staffto-pupil ratio of which the school is justly proud, so that it can continue to provide high educational standards for all children. It will also fund SEN staff and welfare costs, which have become regarded as one of the school’s significant strengths in recent years, with the school’s achievements in this area including becoming the first Jewish school to be awarded the ADHD Friendly School Award by the ADHD Foundation. The prestigious award, for schools “committed to making their school a safe, nurturing, welcoming and exciting place, in which all learners with ADHD can achieve their academic potential”, acknowledged North West’s work in incorporating

everyday tools to redress the barriers faced by pupils with ADHD.

The money raised will also go towards funding a reduction in voluntary contributions. Like other state-funded Jewish schools, North West receives no funding for Kodesh (Jewish studies) from local government and so relies entirely on voluntary contributions for Kodesh education, the levels of which have fallen in recent years due to wider economic and political factors.

North West Headteacher Judith Caplan said she was “overwhelmed” by the cross-communal support the campaign had received, “which illustrates the position this special school has held at the heart of our community throughout its 78year history”. “The much-needed funds, as well as all the good wishes, have been so gratifying, particularly coming so soon after our incredible Ofsted and Kodesh inspection results, enabling us to continue to deliver on our mission to ensure that every child continues to thrive in a happy and stimulating school environment.” “Our heartfelt thanks go to our parents, staff and governors who went above and beyond to drive funds for the school we all so love,” she added.

A capacity crowd of turned out at Alum Hall on Sunday night for the first time since 2019 for the return of the annual Norwood Quiz Night 2023 as an in-person event. A record 280 participants raised £20,000 for the charity supporting people with learning disabilities and autism and children and

their families in crisis.

Compéred by Alan Dedicot, the National Lottery’s ‘Voice of the Balls’ and a loyal supporter of the event, the quick fire rounds were run by organiser QuizQuizQuiz. Participants saw a video illustrating the impact of Norwood’s

Seed Promotes Rabbi Daniel Fine to Director of Education

Seed, the UK leading charity providing adult and family jewish education, is delighted to announce the promotion of Rabbi Daniel Fine to Director of Education. Rabbi Fine was previously Director of Schools and will now have the additional responsibility of leading the development and implementation of Seed’s learning programme for parents and families.

As well as a sixth form teacher at Hasmonean, Sinai Primary School Rabbi and an accomplished author of four books, Rabbi Fine has been looking after Seed’s School Programme. This involves running regular educational, inspirational and engaging activities in ten North West London Jewish Schools including Rosh Pinah Primary School, Rimon and Immanuel College.

As part of his new role, Rabbi Fine will manage a large team of educators and ensure the smooth running of Seed’s vast education programme. From leading the strategy to effective delivery, Rabbi fine will be overseeing every aspect of learner-focused activities including advanced one2one learning, Hebrew reading crash courses, seminars, bat & bar mitzvah programmes, parenting and relationship classes and much more.

Seed’s CEO Rabbi Herman said: “Rabbi Fine is extremely hard working and a dedicated team member. I have no doubt he will take Seed’s adult and family education programme to the next level. Based on his work with schools alone, I’m confident Rabbi Fine is going to extend the reach of

our vital mission to bring authentic Yiddishkiet to families across the UK”

Seed’s new Director of Education Rabbi Fine said: “I’m really excited to work with such a great team. Seed have built up a tremendous reputation for inspiring and meaningful programming over the last 40 years and I look forward to being part of its next chapter.”

Rabbi Daniel Fine

Norwood Quiz Night winning team

Celebrating fund raising success

Manchester King David Primary School Year 6

Children had a lesson on antisemitism and the Holocaust, by Mrs Hannah Goldstone, whose Grandfather was born in Germany. Her family name was Wertheim.

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL

Mrs Hannah Goldstone from Northern Holocaust Education group at King David Primary

Camp Simcha parents share daughter’s transplant story to launch big appeal

The parents of a three-year-old girl who received a kidney from her father have shared their story to launch Camp Simcha’s ‘Make the Difference’ appeal this weekend.

Leia Morsbach was just six months old when she was diagnosed with a progressive and life-limiting mitochondrial disease, which causes seizures, hearing loss and affects her brain, muscles and kidneys.

She is one of about 100 children in the world with this condition.

It was not long after her diagnosis, that Camp Simcha, which provides nationwide help to families coping with over 50 different serious childhood illnesses, came into the family’s lives. They provided support ranging from hospital transport, meals and specialist equipment to counselling, family support and therapeutic art sessions.

“We wanted to tell our story to support the campaign and help ensure Camp Simcha can be there for other families like ours,” explains mum Katie Hainbach, from North London.

With her husband Tom’s parents living in Scotland and hers in Ireland, Katie says that when Camp Simcha came into their lives it felt like a lifeline.

“Straight away we knew Camp Simcha were going to be such a huge help to us. That Jewish ethos is really obvious in what they do. It’s very much about making sure you are really well supported by the whole Camp Simcha community.”

Last year it became clear Leia’s kidney function had deteriorated to the point where she needed dialysis or a transplant.

“We had decided that a kidney transplant would be the best thing for her and then we

had to find a donor,” explains Tom. “But from the start I wanted it to be me.”

There were numerous delays and the operation was called off twice, but on July 5 the pair were hospitalised - separately. While Tom donated his kidney at Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospital, Leia was with Katie at Great Ormond Street Hospital being prepped.

Leia’s little brother Robin, who was just nine months old, was being looked after by his grandparents while his parents stayed at the respective hospitals.

Recalling speaking to his wife soon after coming round, Tom says: “Katie told me that the kidney had come out fighting, that it was working straight away and that was an amazing thing to hear.”

Leia is three now and Katie says she is the ‘bravest, strongest person I know.”

“She has been through more in three years than most adults have gone through in a lifetime. She’s made me a better person. And I think everyone she meets she makes a better person.”

Throughout, Camp Simcha family liaison

Jewish Care marks Holocaust Memorial Day

from caring staff and volunteers and therapeutic Shalvata service, a place to be together, enjoy connecting to Jewish culture and to one another and celebrating life together.

At the commemoration, Lord Eric Pickles, United Kingdom Special Envoy for post-Holocaust studies, shared news of the go ahead for the UK Holocaust memorial and learning centre, answered questions from members and underlined our collective responsibility for generations to come to accurately remember and learn about the dark reality of history and the atrocities that took place in towns across Europe and in concentration camps.

officer Mandy has been a constant in the family’s lives.

“She is not just our family liaison officer she’s a friend now as well, she makes sure we are being looked after, checks in constantly. Mandy does the things I don’t have time for in terms of my own self-care.”

Among those things are support groups – including a mums’ art group, which Katie says was the only activity which managed to distract her in the run-up to the transplant surgeries.

Tom has also been supported with counselling.

“When you have an unwell child the costs are just enormous; you don’t have the ability to have two parents working fulltime … a lot of the help we receive from Camp Simcha we just couldn’t afford by ourselves,” adds Katie.

It costs Camp Simcha £2.8million annually to provide its range of 23 bespoke practical, therapeutic and emotional support services to every family in the UK who needs them.

Camp Simcha’s 36-hour ‘Make the Difference’ Match Funding Campaign kicks off on Sunday 5th February at 10am.

You can donate here www.charityextra. com/campsimcha

On Holocaust Memorial Day, members of Jewish Care’s Holocaust Survivors’ Centre attended a service along with the staff and volunteers along with Jewish Care’s Chief Executive, Daniel Carmel-Brown, led by Rabbi Menachem Junik, Jewish Care’s spiritual and cultural lead.

Rabbi Junik said, “I want to thank all of you, the survivors, for sharing your voice, of hope and of inspiration. And though we ask ourselves how the world still hasn’t learned lessons of the Holocaust, in the teachings of Rabbi Sacks z’l, if we want to change the world we have to change ourselves and respect for all of humanity, which is why it’s so important that we continue to learn

the lessons from the Holocaust.”

The members were joined by Chazan Jonny Turgel, the grandson of Holocaust survivors who were themselves members of the centre, including Gina Turgel z’l, who left a legacy in Holocaust education by sharing her story with thousands of people. The Chazan who sang at the moving service before members lit candles of remembrance and Lord Pickles, the United Kingdom Special Envoy for post-Holocaust studies, spoke to members and answered questions about Holocaust remembrance.

Survivors call the Holocaust Survivors’ Centre Holocaust Survivors’ Centre, a second home, with support always available

Daniel Carmel-Brown, Jewish Care’s chief executive, thanked Lord Pickles, Chazzan Turgel and all of the survivors, adding, “A few years ago we took Young Jewish Care supporters to Poland and visited Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. Being there with Renee Salt and those young people gave me a sense of real hope and inspiration. The world we are living in today is not an easy world but when I see all of you today, I see the hope you are bringing for the future and it brings the positivity we need to carry on and do justice for all that you achieve in your lives.”

Across Jewish Care, community centre members, care homes residents and Retirement Living apartments tenants marked the day with commemoration services, lighting candles of remembrance.

Holocaust survivors light candles at the Holocaust Memorial Day ceremony at Jewish Care’s Holocaust Survivors’ Centre

Leia Morsbach

At Broughton Jewish Cassel Fox Primary School, Certificates were handed out to some pupils for doing acts of kindness and being helpful by Principal Rabbi Yehuda Pearlman.

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL Broughton Jewish prize Certificate winners for acts of kindness

LSJS National Jewish Education Conference

Southend & Westcliff District HMD event

Over 300 people attended the annual Holocaust Memorial Day event theme, “Ordinary People”, a memorial put on by Southend Borough Council who work closely with the Jewish Community every year, partly due to the prominence of Jewish people in the City.

There was the annual lighting of the Holocaust candle commemorating the liberation of Auschwitz on 27th January 1945.

Rabbi Geoffrey Hyman introduced 90 years young, grandma Janine Webber BEM revealing that Janine suffered in silence because it was only 18 years ago she started to tell her story. During his introduction, Rabbi Hyman touched upon how the persecution of the Jews is ancient and referred to the story of enslavement at Pesach time, how this is commemorated and in a similar vein, it has become incumbent to commemorate the Holocaust.

German soldier. She lost her mother, aged 29, to typhus when in the ghetto. Janine survived for a year hidden in a hole.

There was a presentation by Evelyne Raphael, a holocaust survivor, now living in Southend. Evelyne was born outside Paris on 29th May 1939. She, with her brother and parents were able to survive with the help of local people. Evelyne described how the French Militia helped the Nazis. 21 members of her family were sent to Auschwitz. Only 4 came out alive.

Thank yous were given by the Mayor of Southend, Councillor Kevin Robinson. He said it was important to reflect back and learn from those horrors.

The excitement and positivity of 160 Jewish Studies teachers was profound, as they joined together for the first in-person LSJS Primary School Jewish Studies conference in three years. Now in its twelfth year, the conference provided our JS teachers with an intensive and inspiring day, with a focus to ‘create, innovate and celebrate’ Jewish education. LSJS partnered with, and was sponsored by UnitEd, an Israel Ministry of Diaspora initiative, which works to strengthen Jewish education in the Diaspora. This year, we were privileged to host 24 European educators from Jewish schools in twelve cities across Europe, including Tallin, Dusseldorf, Bucharest and Stockholm.

We were honoured that the Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis, launched the day with a keynote address, and reminded all present of the invaluable role they play in the future of Anglo-Jewry. He challenged our teachers to continue to innovate and develop creative approaches that provide relevance to the next generation, whilst remaining grounded in the values and teachings of our rich tradition.

Our teachers had the opportunity to hear from both home-grown and internationally renowned educators. The twenty-one inspirational workshops on offer included sessions about the incorporation of technology in the teaching of Torah, creative ways of bringing the weekly parasha to life, and talking about G-d in our classrooms. The day culminated with three dynamic TED talk presentations that left

our teachers excited to implement their learning back in their classrooms.

David Wilk, Head of Jewish Studies at North West London Jewish Day School in Willesden, said: “This has been an absolutely fantastic day. Even though I’ve been a teacher for many years, the sessions today have given me new insights to take back into school”.

Joanne Greenaway, CEO of LSJS, said: “For me, this is what Jewish education is all about. Taking a day out of the routine to come together, be inspired and learn from one other will pay enormous dividends in the teaching and learning that happens in our schools. There are so many exceptional educators in our community and having a chance to learn from them has been a privilege. The participation of teachers from all over Europe was enriching and we are grateful to UnitEd for bringing us together”.

Conference co-chairs Dr Helena Miller and Esther Colman were delighted to see how many practical ideas for different areas of the Jewish Studies curriculum could be adapted for use in school the very next day. In addition, Dr Miller said: “Jewish education is not just what we teach, but how we teach it. Our teachers are role models for the children in their schools, and today’s conference showed how important that is for every classroom”.

For more information on teacher training or degrees at LSJS, please visit ww.lsjs.ac.uk or call 020 8203 6427.

Janine recounted her journey from Lvov, Poland, now a city in Ukraine. She told of the harrowing plight of her family, her father, grandmother and other members of her family were all shot at the hands of the Nazis. Her 7 year old brother was shot by a

There was an Exhibition dealing with major historical aspects of the Holocaust as well as original photographs, arts and documents. The Southend and Westcliff Hebrew Congregation Ladies Guild organised the refreshments.

Outside Westcliff library, the annual poignant Tree Planting Ceremony organised by the Council was planted in remembrance of the victims of the Holocaust.

Minister for Faith praises boost for mental health and food support

Jewish Action for Mental Health (JAMH) and Greater Manchester Neshomo met with the Minister for Faith, Baroness Scott of Bybrook, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, on Thursday afternoon. The meeting, alongside partners from their £93,900 Faith New Deal Pilot Fund project, looked at its results and discussed implications.

Baroness Scott was hugely impressed with the work undertaken and said, “I didn’t realise the breadth of what had been done with the small amount of money we gave you and the holistic nature of the project, working together across communities.” She was keen to receive more information on what had been achieved through the project so that she could discuss with government colleagues how such work could be supported in future and replicated elsewhere.

Jonny Wineberg, Trustee of JAMH who also has the role of Project Officer, said, “We are immensely proud of what we have achieved here, exceeding the targets we agreed, benefiting thousands of people facing both food poverty and mental health issues. We emphasised to Baroness Scott

the fact that poverty is the single biggest driver of ill health, and that the relationship is bi-directional in that poverty causes ill health, and ill health causes poverty. Anxiety and depression are 50% more prevalent in the most deprived tenth of the country so, in Greater Manchester, that means 25% of households.”

Dr David Marshall, Chair of Neshomo, said, “We were able to explain our befriending, social prescribing and link work with hospitals to the Baroness and she clearly understood both its importance and impact.”

The project partners also include L’Chaim Foodbank, Rainbow Surprise, Manchester Sikh Foundation (also known as Feed My City), Salford Community & Voluntary Services, and Salford Foodshare Network.

Outdoor learning helps pupils at Kisharon

Forest School can give lifelong confidence to pupils even with the most severe disabilities, says Alfredo Sanguino, Forest School Lead at Kisharon Noé School.

Every pupil at Kisharon Noé School participates in this relatively new educational approach. Pupils spend a half day, every week, without computers or any other school equipment in the outdoors, usually 20 minutes walk away in Dollis Brook woods, where they work together building a den which is covered by a tarpaulin.

Inside there’s circle time where the pupils are encouraged to share their feelings. There are arts and crafts activities, designed to broaden vocabulary or improve maths skills, using found natural materials to avoid deforestation, and often time too for everyone to explore on their own or with friends.

Borrowed from the Scandinavian educational system, Forest School was developed in the UK in 1993 but adopted by Kisharon Noé School only after the pandemic.

Alfredo, explains: “During the lockdowns

vulnerable children couldn’t even go to the park. What faith can there be for the future of these children if they couldn’t interact with the outside world?”

Alfredo continues: “Children with learning disabilities who struggle with light and sound benefit from the chance each week to listen to the birds, leaves and the wind. Many sit and think and simply enjoy the calm”.

Class teaching assistants accompany their pupils and the approach they take is

very different to that used in the classroom. Alfredo explains: “We show pupils they are all equal and they too can lead an activity. The thinking behind Forest School is to balance risk with benefit, encouraging the children to take risks and find confidence as they do so. “These pupils will go on to live independently and one day will need to take risks. Forest School is all about teaching them to analyse these risks for themselvesThe pupils are always happy at Forest School and enjoy the experience.”

Baroness Scott on her visit

Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis addresses a packed room

ASK THE RABBI

Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com

BLUE MONDAY (FINALE)

Dear Rabbi I always find myself feeling especially down this time of year. I know the same can be said for many others as well. I speak to work colleagues and family members, many who share a similar sentiment. What is the Jewish solution to the blues?

Harriot

Dear Harriot

Many people will argue that if only they had more of life’s trappings, if only they would be more successful, they would be in a better place – they would be much happier. As they say, “whoever says money can’t buy happiness doesn’t know where to shop!” Sheer utter gibberish and nonsense. Contrary to popular belief, happiness doesn’t come from fame, fortune, other people, or material possessions. The richest person in the world could be miserable while a person living in the slums of a third world country could be happy and content. To be sure there are a lot of people out there who will tell you they’re happy and they might believe themselves to be, but then why are they all too often so frustrated, agitated and discontented?

There’s a popular saying: “The happiest people don’t have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have.” You will have a deeper sense of inner peace if you count your blessings instead of yearning for what you don’t have. Or to put it in the famous words of our Sages, “Wealth is determined by being satisfied with

your lot.” You’ll be happier if you just focus on your own reality. In fact, the more you yearn for what you don’t have the more discontented you will feel, the more frustrated you will be, the less happy you will be and ironically, it is precisely that which in turn will get in the way of you achieving any success. You see, contrary to popular misconception: Success is not what brings happiness. Happiness brings success. What does this mean? The Talmud tells us that some Rabbis prior to their giving of a special class would often tell a humorous anecdote. The significance of this would be, as Chassidism explains, in order to relax the heart and open the mind, broadening horizons.

When you are in a happier frame of mind you function better, you absorb better, you think better.

When the Rabbis tell us, “joy penetrates all obstacles,” what they mean is that for all the things you believe you cannot do; for all the obstacles you create in your own mind, happiness enables you to transcend that, to rise above it. Happiness brings success because when you are in that better place you can go on to achieve great things.

The bottom line is this: (I will reiterate the qualification again, I am not talking about people with real trauma or chemical imbalance which is all real and needs to be dealt with appropriately and professionally. I am speaking of the average person going through day-to-day life). Happiness is a choice. There are two types of people in the world: those who choose to be happy, and those who choose to be unhappy. Real happy people

are happy because they choose to be happy - they make themselves happy. They maintain a positive outlook on life and remain at peace with themselves. There was an elderly woman who was a spinster all her life. And she was terribly bitter about it such that when she passed away at the age of ninety-seven she had one request in her will: “There shall me no male pallbearers carrying my coffin. If they didn’t want to take me out when I was alive they’re certainly not taking me out now when I’m gone!”

Happy people have the ability to choose their own destinies. They don’t let circumstances dictate their lives and tell them how they should live. Being in control of one’s own life brings positive feelings and a great sense of self-worth.

OK, so finally, here’s the question: After all said and done, I still don’t feel happy. I read this three part series, I “get” the arguments. They make sense, but it doesn’t change the reality in my heart. What am I to do?

Two words: “Fake it!” And you’re thinking, “But why should I fake it? What could possibly be the point in that? The straight answer is it’s what we call “positive feedback loop.” Our Sages make the point in Ethics of the Fathers when they tell us that one good deed begets another. By definition, what you do impacts on your mind, on your heart and on your soul, whether you like it or not. Right now you are not in the mood of doing a mitzvah – a good deed. Do it anyway. Don’t let what happens to you define how you happen for others. The

“feel good factor” generated, not to mention the deeper soul satisfaction, will then make you want to do another mitzvah and yet another after that. Thought, speech, and action are the three main parts of a person’s behaviour. Each of us has control over what we think, what we say, and what we do. A person must strive to think only thoughts that cause joy; a person should keep away from speaking about matters that are sad and depressing; and he must act as if he has a full and joyous heart, to show joyous mannerisms even if that is not how he feels at the moment. Ultimately it will be this way in actuality.

Maybe right now your mind is consumed with negative thoughts that pull you down and deny you happiness. But when you fake it, the mind can be tricked, and you can balance your life on that little hack. In the meantime, you will learn what you need to and turn that pretend happiness into the real deal. All it takes is a little nerve. We were born to be happy, not perfect. So right now, you’re not feeling happy? Fake it till you make it! You’re not being dishonest. You are just unleashing your true inner self. And besides, it annoys the heck out of everyone around you, when they see you constantly smiling!

Follow Rabbi Schochet at: RabbiSchochet.com Twitter: @RabbiYYS Facebook: facebook.com/Rabbiyys.

Pirkei Avot Perek 4: Mishna 17

Refuah sheleima for Yaakov ben Fruma

Elisha son of Avuyah taught - one who learns as a child to what may [his learning] be compared? To ink written on a new paper. One who learns when old to what may [his learning] be compared? To ink written on reused paper.

The Mishna is teaching that the Torah study which one engages in during one’s younger years has a far greater imprint on the person’s mind. As a person ages, so might their capacity to retain information and therefore one is encouraged to learn as much Torah in their youth. Nonetheless, Rabbeinu Yonah taught that one should not therefore refrain from Torah study in one’s old age

for notwithstanding that they may not remember what they learn, they still reap the eternal reward for engaging and toiling in Torah.

Rabbi Yosi son of Rabbi Yehuda taught: One who learns from youngsters is comparable to one who eats unripe grapes and wine straight from the vat, whereas one who studies from the elders is compared to one who eats fully ripened grapes and drinks old wine. Torah wisdom is developed as a person matures; therefore if one studies from a youngster they may be likened to one who drinks wine which is newly

processed which may contain sediments. One who studies from elders on the other hand can be assured that the Torah is pure.

Rebbi taught: Do not look at the barrel rather at what it contains. Some young barrels are filled with old wine and some old barrels do not even contain new wine! The Bartenura explains that Rebbi comes to dispute the above teaching of Rabbi Yosi (above) and his message is: - Don’t judge a Torah teacher by his age! Some young Rabbis have a lot of wisdom to share (and the reverse is sometimes true as well...)

Our Bar and Bat Mitzvah Project ensures that young people, on their special day, can share it with a child Holocaust victim who was denied a future.

Over the past 10 years we have twinned over 1000 children. Complete the on-line Twinning Form and researchers at Yad Vashem will use the information to find a suitable twin.

Celebrants will receive a comprehensive Twinning Pack which contains:

• A Page of Testimony, with details of your chosen twin

• A Study Guide

• A Certificate

• A letter from a Holocaust survivor

• A Yad Vashem pin

• Memorial and Shabbat Candles

• An invitation to become a Guardian of the Memory

46 Albert Road London NW4 2SG

Charity No. 1099659

Phone: 020 8187 9881

Email: office@yadvashem.org.uk

www.yadvashem.org.uk

www.guardianofthememory.org

@yadvashemukfoundation

@yadvashemUK

@yadvashemukfoundation

Weekly Dvar Torah FROM ERETZ YISRAEL

Tribute to the Trio

BY MRS. SHIRA SMILES

In a deeply powerful scene, Moshe Rabbeinu is found with his hands held high on top of the mountain praying for the people gripped in a raging battle with Amalek below. Aharon and Chur stood on either side of Moshe Rabbeinu holding his hands aloft (Shemot 17:10). Rashi teaches that Chur was the son of Moshe’s sister, Miriam. What more do we know about Chur? What is the symbolism of his joining with Aharon to support the hands of Moshe Rabbeinu?

Rabbi Roberts in Through the Prism of Torah explains that Aharon and Chur personified contrasting character traits. Aharon was a peacemaker, he constantly looked for ways to create harmony among his people. Indeed, he was ready to compromise his own values to achieve this goal, as we see in the story of the sin of the golden calf. Chur, on the other hand, was a person who stood strong in his values, unbending and resolute in his

beliefs. Chazal teach that Chur tried to challenge the people when they wanted to build the calf and they subsequently killed him. Chur, a descendent of Yehudah, was a person who was inflexible and strong like a lion. Truly, a combination of both qualities is necessary. In interpersonal relationships it is wise to follow Aharon’s path, to compromise and make peace whenever possible. However, in the service of Hashem and reinforcing kevod shamayim, one needs to follow Chur’s example and be resolute in his values. These two special people joined

Beshalach Sidra Summary

Moshe Rabbeinu to activate the merits of these approaches as he implored Hashem to have mercy on His people and vanquish Amalek, physically and spiritually.

Rav Schwab in Ma’ayan Beit HaShoeva notes that the word ‘echad’ is repeated in describing each person standing on either side of Moshe Rabbeinu (Shemot 17:12). This emphasis reflects the unique middah of each one, singular to their personalities. Moshe Rabbeinu, standing between them, synthesized the two.

Rav Druk in Aish Tamid understands

this three-way dynamic from quite a different angle. Amalek was the personification of evil, driven to destroy the spiritual world of the Jewish people. This war was about keeping the Hashem’s nation and their world intact. A Jew’s sphere revolves on three major principles, Torah, avodah and gemilut chasadim. Rav Druk maintains that each of these was represented by Moshe, Aharon and Chur. Moshe Rabbeinu symbolized the world of Torah, as he was the one who brought Torah down to Am Yisrael. Aharon HaKohen officiated in the avodah of the mikdash. Chur, son of Miriam the midwife, embodied chesed. In this episode, the Torah teaches us to unite these three pillars to protect and solidify our worlds, both on a national level as well as on a personal one.

Mrs. Shira Smiles, a lecturer, author and curriculum developer, is a member of the Mizrachi Speakers Bureau (www.mizrachi. org/speakers).

“Moshe stretched out his hand over the sea, and God moved the sea with a strong east wind all night, and He turned the sea to dry land and the water split”

(Shemot: 14:21)

1ST ALIYA (KOHEN) – SHEMOT 13:17-14:8

After Pharaoh sends the Israelites out of Egypt, G-d does not lead them on a straight path through the land of the Pelishtim (Philistines) towards Cana’an (later Israel), but rather towards the Sea of Reeds. Moshe is carrying Yosef’s bones, as Yosef had requested before his death (see Bereishit 50:25). A pillar of cloud guides the Israelites by day, and a pillar of fire lights up their journey at night. G-d tells Moshe to turn back in the direction of Egypt. G-d hardens the heart of Pharaoh, who pursues the Israelites with his armed chariots.

2ND ALIYA (LEVI) – 14:9-14

The Egyptians catch up with the

Israelites, who are encamped by the Sea. Seeing the approaching army, the people cry out in prayer, and also ask Moshe why they left Egypt only to die in the desert. Moshe tells them not to fear; they will experience G-d’s salvation.

3RD ALIYA (SHLISHI) – 14:15-25

Moshe raises his staff; an easterly wind blows and the Sea splits. The Israelites walk through the dry channel, the water providing a wall on either side of them. The Egyptians enter the Sea but struggle to move forward.

Point to Consider: Why did G-d move the sea with a “strong easterly wind”? (14:21)

4TH ALIYA (REVI’I) – 14:26-15:26

Moshe raises his staff; the Sea closes on the Egyptians, drowning them. The Israelites see the drowned Egyptians on the seashore. Together with Moshe, they sing the Song at the Sea (Shirat HaYam) which celebrates G-d’s miraculous salvation. The nation travels on, experiencing three days in the desert without water. They come to a place called Marah, where the water is too bitter to drink. They complain to Moshe, who is shown a tree by G-d.

Moshe throws the tree into the water, thus sweetening it.

5TH ALIYA (CHAMISHI) – 15:27-16:10

The Israelites arrive in the Sin Desert and complain to Moshe that they are hungry. G-d tells Moshe that he will send down a daily portion of ‘bread’ from the heavens. Moshe tells the people they will also get meat in the evening.

6TH ALIYA (SHISHI) – 16:11-36

The heavenly bread – called ‘man’ (manna) – falls between two layers of dew (Rashi). Each household gets a daily portion sufficient for its members. Moshe tells them not to leave any over until the next day. Some people ignore this

warning; their manna becomes infested. A double portion falls on Friday. Moshe tells them to use the excess for Shabbat and not to go out to collect any manna on Shabbat. Again, some ignore this instruction. Moshe tells Aharon to preserve some manna in a container, as a reminder to future generations.

7TH ALIYA (SHEVI’I) – 17:1-16

The Israelites travel to Refidim, but again do not find water. G-d tells Moshe to strike a rock with his staff; water emerges from the rock. Amalek attacks the Israelites at Refidim. Yehoshua (Joshua) leads the battle against them, whilst Moshe, Aharon and Chur (Moshe’s nephew) ascend a nearby hill. Whenever Moshe raises his arms, Israel overcomes Amalek. Aharon and Chur support Moshe’s tired arms. Yehoshua is victorious.

HAFTARAH

Devorah was a prophetess and a judge. The haftarah, from the Book of Judges, includes the song that Devorah sang to celebrate the defeat of the evil Ca’ananite general, Sisera. This defeat was facilitated by the bravery of Yael, who attacked and killed Sisera with a tent-peg.

Moshe Rabbeinu symbolized the world of Torah, as he was the one who brought Torah down to Am Yisrael. Aharon HaKohen officiated in the avodah of the mikdash. Chur, son of Miriam the midwife, embodied chesed.

Torah from Israel Beshalach: Searching for Passion

BY RABBI MOSHE TARAGIN

Just as our desert journey began, an old enemy reappeared, hoping to thwart our entry into the land of Israel. Esav’s family was still bristling at the injustice of Ya’akov’s usurping the title of first-born from their grandfather. Ya’akov’s descendants must be halted before they enter the land of Hashem and claim their historical legacy. Amalek, a grandson of Esav had formed a mighty warrior-nation and now, these armies ambushed the defenseless former slaves in an open desert terrain. A rag-tag collection of former slaves would be no match for the fierce Amalek warriors.

Even Hashem Himself had previously worried that exposure to violent conflict would traumatize the still fragile nation. For this reason, He navigated us on a circuitous route to Israel, rather than journeying along the Mediterranean coast, because the coastal plains were inhabited by belligerent Philistine armies. A military encounter with these welltrained armies would demoralize the untrained Jewish people.

Weeks after our flight from Egypt, without warning, Amalek brought war to the desert and, enjoying no cover and no escape route, we were left to face the full brunt of this vicious attack.

It was obvious that our victory could only be achieved through a combination of military engagement and spiritual intercession. While the armies battled in the valley below, Moshe ascended a nearby peak, and raised his hands to heaven in prayer. Glancing at Moshe’s raised hands emboldened with greater courage, and we enjoyed several victories. Gradually though, Moshe’s hands weakened, his hands lowered, dispiriting the fighters and tipping the war in favor of Amalek. Something had to be done to support Moshe’s floundering hands, else victory would slip away.

Quickly Aharon, Moshe’s brother, and a nephew named Hur joined Moshe on the mountain and braced his arms for the remainder of the battle, thereby securing Jewish victory.

HANDS OF FAITH

The Torah refers to Moshe’s heroic hands as “hands of faith” or “hands of emunah”. Presumably this phrase is a metaphor: just as faith is enduring and sturdy, similarly Moshe’s hands, with some assistance, remained steadily pointed to heaven. This colorful and poetic phrase is just another way of portraying Moshe’s hands as rock steady and unwavering.

There is an additional connotation to the phrase “hands of faith”: Moshe’s hands elicited faith in the soldiers waging battle. Watching an elderly Moshe struggle to keep his hands aloft, inspired great faith in their leader and great faith in the success of their mission. Without faith the battle would have been lost. Moshe’s hands of faith insured confidence and courage among the soldiers and delivered a victory of faith.

A ROUGH SEAT

The soldiers were inspired by Moshe’s struggle to keep his hands raised, but also by his posture and positioning during their battle. Typically, during ancient warfare, monarchs remained carefully protected in the rear flank of the camp, enjoying the comforts of the royal quarters while the common soldiers faced the harsh conditions of war. Monarchs were not expected to endure the filthy and bloody conditions of ancient battle. Moshe was different, and though he was unable to participate in the actual battles, he stood on a nearby plateau, supervising the battle and praying for the soldiers below. More importantly, he didn’t accept any luxuries or comforts while his nation below was locked in a life and death struggle. Instead of sitting upon a throne or a chair, this aged man sat on an uncomfortable boulder refusing to indulge in any pleasure while he subjected others to struggle. Moshe’s passion and sacrifice inspired the soldiers to greater bravery and selflessness.

SACRIFICE INSPIRES

Witnessing personal sacrifice in others inspires us to greater dedication. Sacrifice is generally, a result of deep passion. Passion is our ability to care about a person or an idea more than we care about ourselves and our own comforts. Caring about something more than ourselves compels us to sacrifice our own interests on behalf of others or on behalf of great ideas. Passion empowers sacrifice, and similarly, sacrifice generates greater passion, as we are forced to justify why we are surrendering our comforts. Paying a personal price for a “value” heightens the importance of that value. Passion drives sacrifice which, in turn, generates more passion.

I was deeply inspired by the passion my mentor, Rav Aharon Lichtenstein, displayed for his Torah study. His lengthy and challenging Torah lectures would regularly extend 30 minutes into our break, and we all regularly missed lunch. I realized that his passion for Torah study

was more important than his hunger for food. Likewise, I recall the extra moments he spent studying Torah after completing an all-night tikkun of Torah study on Shavuot. Evidently, his passion for Torah study overcame his need for sleep. These sacrifices for Torah study, taught me the value of passion and sacrifice. People are looking to be inspired by people of passion and of sacrifice.

GOOD TIMES, WEAK PEOPLE

Unfortunately, there is a shortage of passion in our modern world. Life has become easy, and men have grown soft. There is a common expression: hard times produce strong people, strong people produce good times, good times produce weak people, and weak people produce hard times.

Living through good times, we are rarely asked to sacrifice, and we rarely achieve passion. Previous generations fought great wars, endured economic crisis, or struggled on behalf of large ideas, often at great personal costs to their liberty or comfort. Their lives were harder, but their values and passion were each more sharply defined. Their sacrifices inspired us and enhanced the caliber of our own lives, filling them with content and meaning.

The modern world is too padded for passion and sacrifice. We face our own modern set of challenges and struggles, but they tend to be interpersonal and psychological, and they don’t often demand relinquishing of comfort. If anything, we often solve our problems by increasing comfort, thereby decreasing sacrifice, and further diminishing passion. Without passion, life is empty and uninspired and unfortunately, we occupy an uninspired world.

RELIGIOUS PASSION

Religion is certainly easier than ever before. Earlier periods in history were far less friendly to Jews and to religious observance. Economic and social conditions were harsh and demanded great struggle and sacrifice. Facing endless cycles of antisemitism required great faith and great personal sacrifice. Religion required investment, courage and passion.

As the modern world has become more friendly toward Judaism, religion has become easier than ever. We have achieved wealth, political security and social influence, and can practice our religion freely, while still enjoying a reasonably comfortable lifestyle. Life in the state of Israel is triumphant and has become increasingly more comfortable.

Children look for passion in the lives of their parents and when they struggle to identify it, they remain uninspired. If the next generation does not detect any sacrifice for religion, they will assume, perhaps correctly, that we aren’t passionate about religion. If we aren’t passionate, why should they adopt life choices we made based on comfort and convenience. They can pursue their own independent lifestyles of comfort and ease. Without our own passion and sacrifice we have little to demand from the future. Don’t fear hardships or sacrifice, they will lead us to nobility and passion.

The writer is a rabbi at Yeshivat Har Etzion/Gush, a hesder yeshiva. He has smicha and a BA in computer science from Yeshiva University as well as a masters degree in English literature from the City University of New York.

Why Strive for Greatness? Part 2

BY RABBI SHMUEL REICHMAN

In our previous article, we began exploring the question of why Hashem created the world. The Maharal, Ramchal, and other key Jewish thinkers explain as follows: Hashem is absolute and ultimate goodness. However, there are two aspects of goodness. Hashem is good, but He also has the ability to do good unto others. Before Hashem created the world, there was only Hashem Himself. Therefore, Hashem was internally good, but He was not actively expressing this goodness by giving or doing good unto others. Hashem chose to express His capacity for doing good unto others by creating man, upon whom Hashem would bestow the ultimate goodness.

We ended off our previous article, however, with a very powerful question:

If Hashem’s goal was to give us the ultimate goodness, defined as connection with Him, and Olam Haba is the place of this ultimate connection, then what is the purpose of this world? Why did Hashem create us in this world where we have to earn our share in the World to Come? If Hashem really wanted to give us the ultimate good, then why not give it to us to begin with for free? Why do we have to go through the difficult process of earning it in this world?

WE ONLY ENJOY WHAT WE EARN

The Ramchal explains, based on the Talmud Yerushalmi (Orlah 1:3), that human beings are created in such a way that we don’t enjoy free handouts. A poor person is embarrassed to receive money from people, as there is shame in receiving something you did not work for. This concept is referred to as “nahama d’kisufa” (the bread of shame). There is an inherent embarrassment in receiving that which we did not earn (See beginning of Mesilas Yesharim, chap. 1. See also Daas Tevunos and Derech Hashem. See also Rav Yosef Karo, Maggid Meisharim, Bereishis, and Zohar 2:87a). Psychologically, we feel so much more connected to the achievements and rewards that we have earned than to those that we received for free. Just think about a child who works for a week to earn twenty dollars compared to that same child who gets twenty dollars for free. He would feel very differently toward that money. This is why, according to halachah, it is better to give a loan to someone in need than to give a free handout. A loan will be paid back, granting the borrower a feeling of independence instead of shame. Even better than a loan, the ideal is to find him a job, because this gives him a more permanent sense of independence and dignity.

Had Hashem created us in Olam Haba, the goodness we would have received

would have been free, unearned. This is the type of perfection that malachim (angels) enjoy. However, this is not the ultimate enjoyment. The ultimate enjoyment is perfection that is earned, that is chosen, that is an expression of all the hard work you have invested. However, while this appears to answer our question, there is still a very obvious problem with this explanation.

WHY NOT CREATE US DIFFERENTLY?

We understand that human beings appreciate and enjoy that which we earn to an entirely different degree than that which we are given for free. This is why Hashem created us in this world — in order to give us the opportunity to earn our reward. Yet, if Hashem created the world, including humanity and our psychology, why couldn’t He simply create us in such a way that we do enjoy gifts and free handouts as much as we enjoy things that we have earned through hard work? Understanding our current psychology and our need to earn our reward does not answer why our psychology is wired this way in the first place. Why did Hashem create us in this way?

MARRIAGE: TRUE ONENESS

It’s crucial to understand that the pleasure of connection with Hashem is not a simple, artificial, or external pleasure. It is not a gift that can be given from one person to another. This pleasure stems from an existential relationship, a connection of true oneness. It is impossible for a human being to have any kind of meaningful relationship with a rock. A rock is fundamentally different from a human being, and as such, there cannot be true connection between the two. A true relationship and deep connection is only possible between two beings that are similar. This is why human beings are able to build such deep relationships with one another.

Had Hashem created us in Olam Haba in such a way that we enjoyed free handouts, we would have been diametrically opposed to Hashem’s essence. Hashem is the ultimate giver, and we would be the takers; Hashem acts out of complete free will, and we would have no choice. Hashem is the creator, and we would be

the created with no power of creating; Hashem’s perfection is intrinsic (no one gave it to Him), while ours would be granted by Hashem. As fundamentally different “beings,” we would be incapable of forging a true connection with Hashem, and thus, Hashem would not be able to reveal the ultimate expression of His goodness, i.e., His ability to give of His goodness to another.

CREATED IMPERFECT

This is why Hashem created us imperfect. We get to choose and earn our perfection, our G-dliness. Hashem is perfect; we get to become perfect. Hashem is good; we get to choose to become good. We are born imperfect with the goal of becoming G-dly, to become perfect, all-knowing, all-good, all-kind, and to have complete self-control. However, this is the goal, not the starting point. We start out as animalistic beings. We are born with limited intellectual abilities and undeveloped character traits. We are selfish; we think that we are the only person who exists; we perceive ourselves as the center of our own universe — the exact opposite of G-dliness. The goal of life is to then become G-dly, to actualize our potential, and to become a perfected tzelem Elokim. As we have previously explained, the fetus learns kol haTorah kulah in the womb and then loses access to it upon being born into this world. We are born imperfect so that we can take the journey through this world of becoming perfect with the goal of recreating and earning what we originally received as a gift.

FREE WILL

This is why we are given free will. We are tasked with the mission of choosing good, choosing perfection. Our mission in this world is to become great, to become G-dly. We live in a world of time and movement, of process and change, as our job in this world is to evolve and grow. Perfection lies in a transcendent realm, beyond process, beyond time. Becoming perfect requires time, movement, and process. We need to learn to ride the waves of time, utilizing it to the best of our ability. (In simpler terms, all growth requires process and the linear progression of time. We inhabit the

physical world of time and space, the perfect environment for our journey of growth and ascension through the use of our free will.)

OUR CHALLENGES

Along with the gift of free will, we are given obstacles and challenges that we face throughout our life. These challenges we face are not meant to stop us from achieving our greatness; rather the opposite. The Ramban explains that the purpose of challenges is to push us out of our comfort zone, to help us achieve our true potential (Ramban, Bereishis 22:1. See also Maharal, Gevuros Hashem, perek 22). Only when we are pushed to our limits do we begin to realize what we are truly capable of.

OUR OLAM HABA EXPERIENCE

Olam Haba is the experience of enjoying everything we have built during our lifetime. Some people mistakenly think that the World to Come is a place where you receive an enjoyable reward, some kind of external prize. In reality, as the Ramchal, Nefesh Hachaim, and others explain, Olam Haba is where you experience you. It is where you enjoy the ecstatic experience of the person and consciousness you’ve created — everything you’ve built and become during your lifetime. The problem is that many people think that they’ll live forever. In truth, time is dying. Every second fades away. But the question is not “how much time do we have left?” The question is “what will we do with the time we have left?” May we be inspired to utilize as many of the 86,400 seconds of each and every day on our paths to achieving our true greatness.

Rabbi Shmuel Reichman is a bestselling author, international speaker, and the CEO of Self-Mastery Academy. He has lectured internationally on topics of Torah thought, Jewish medical ethics, psychology, and leadership. His bestselling book, The Journey to Your Ultimate Self, serves as an inspiring gateway into deeper Jewish thought. He is also a business, executive, and leadership coach, with a unique approach based on Torah values. After obtaining his BA from Yeshiva University, he received Semicha from Yeshiva University’s RIETS, a master’s degree in education from Azrieli Graduate School, and a master’s degree in Jewish Thought from Bernard Revel Graduate School. He then spent a year studying at Harvard as an Ivy Plus Scholar. He currently lives in Chicago with his wife and son where he is pursuing a PhD at the University of Chicago. To enjoy more of Rabbi Reichman’s content, to contact him, or to learn more about his services, visit his website: ShmuelReichman.com

We are tasked with the mission of choosing good, choosing perfection. Our mission in this world is to become great, to become G-dly.

Another delicious recipe for from Denise Phillips

For more recipes and inspiration visit my website: www.jewishcookery.com

Marmite & Mushroom Ragu

Now that marmite is back on the kosher list, I thought that I would write a recipe that adds this strong flavour in a subtle way. For all those people who don’t like marmite – you won’t taste it, but you will enjoy a delicious ragu! Marmite mellows as it cooks but provides a tasty natural flavour. Serve with rice, pasta or noodles.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes Serves: 6

Ingredients

15g dried mushrooms

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 red onions, finely chopped

2 carrots, finely chopped

1 celery stick, finely chopped.

3 garlic cloves, sliced

6 thyme sprigs

50ml red wine

125g dried green lentils

400g can whole plum tomatoes

125g chestnut mushrooms, chopped

2 tablespoons soy sauce

3-4 tablespoons Marmite

Method

1. Pour 400ml boiling water over the dried mushrooms and leave for 10 minutes until hydrated.

2. Heat the oil in a large frying pan and add the onion, carrot, celery and a pinch of salt. Cook gently, stirring for 10 minutes until soft.

3. Add the garlic, thyme, red wine, lentils, mushrooms, mushroom stock and tinned tomatoes. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and leave to simmer with a lid on.

4. Pour in the soy sauce. Give everything a good mix, then scrape the mushrooms into the lentil mixture.

5. Stir in the Marmite and continue to cook the ragu, stirring occasionally, over a low-medium heat for 30-45 mins until the lentils are cooked and the sauce is thick and reduced, adding extra water if necessary.

6. Remove the thyme sprigs and season to taste.

LSJS Education Page

There can be miracles, if you believe

BY RABBI DANNY BAGEL

The exodus story reaches its climax this week, as Moses miraculously takes the Children of Israel across the Red Sea, leading them in an outpouring of song. This momentous point in our history, as we took our first national step towards freedom, was made prominent in the world of Hollywood, through the academy award-winning song from the Prince of Egypt, ‘When You Believe’, sung by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. Moses, the triumphant leader goes on to become our most revered teacher and personality. However, his lack of confidence in his suitability for leadership very nearly got in his way.

During Moses’ first encounter with G-d at the burning bush, Moses appears to turn down the leadership opportunity on offer by the Almighty. He exhibits a sense of anxiety, and portrays the image of an underconfident man, questioning his own ability to step up. However, despite

his repeated protestations, G-d refuses to cater to Moses and is adamant that Moses is the right candidate. According to one Midrash, it took seven days for G-d to persuade Moses to take the position. G-d refuses to be appeased and continues to assert His authority, insisting that Moses is the right person for the job despite his uncertainty.

It is interesting that what we know about Moses’ early life, does not reflect the position he attains later. We know that Moses goes on to become our most highly regarded leader and that it is this first encounter with G-d, that had a transformative impact on who he became. Rabbi Sacks often reflected on this motif and commented that “more than we have faith in G-d, G-d has faith in us. He lifts us every time we fall… He believes in us more than we believe in ourselves”. At this stage in

Moses’ life, he needed someone to believe in his ability and enable his potential to come to fruition.

This mechanism for harnessing potential, as modelled by G-d in this story, can be embraced within the classroom. Effective teachers believe in their students. They have faith in their students’ potential and find ways to propel them forward in their learning. Great teachers have high expectations of their students, articulate their belief in their potential and embed opportunity to build their self-esteem.

John Hattie’s groundbreaking study of what improves pupils’ results, which is regarded as the most ambitious analysis of education ever completed, found that students’ expectation of self is by far the most significant factor that influences students’ learning (Hattie, 2009). Similarly, the inspiring educational leader, Rita Pierson,

reinforced the message that “every child deserves a champion – an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connections and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be” (Pierson, 2017).

Teachers have the power to transform pupils and propel them forward. Excellent teachers don’t give up on their students. This philosophy is core to Jewish education and central to the teacher training programme at LSJS. Our community aspires to produce engaged and positive learners, committed to Jewish life and learning. This can only be achieved if we have teachers who believe in and harness the potential of their students. To paraphrase from the song, there can be miracles in Jewish education, when we believe.

Rabbi Danny Baigel, Secondary Programmes Manager and Jewish Career Pathways Director at LSJS. To find out more about how you can start your career as a teacher please contact danny.baigel@ lsjs.ac.uk

Rivka Broza

Sacks Morasha JPS

Reception Class Teacher, Phonics and Reading lead

Where did you train?

University of Hertfordshire

What is the best part of your job?

Being the person that the children want to share their news with in the morning.

• One-year full time programme leading to Qualified Teacher Status and PGCE Primary Education.

• 120 days of hands-on teaching in high performing schools with encouraging colleagues.

• Time will be spent on campus for training and support to teach across the primary curriculum.

Our community aspires to produce engaged and positive learners, committed to Jewish life and learning.

Family Fun Beshalach

Moshe Rabbeinu finally leads the Jewish people out of Egypt! But a few days later, Pharaoh thinks it would be clever to chase after the Jews, and force them back to being slaves. He takes a large army, and runs after the Jews, who are approaching a sea – Yam Suf. As he gets nearer the Yidden realise they must daven to Hashem, and Hashem says – time to move forward! The sea splits, leaving dry land for them to walk through, completely calmly. The

Sidra Word Search

Egyptians decide to chase after the Jewish people, and the waters came onto the Egyptians, drowning them and their chariots.

The Jews then travel further to Marah, guided by a cloud during the day and a pillar of fire by night. They are now beginning their journey in a desert, but they completely trust Hashem. When they ask for food, Hashem sends them a special food called Manna which had fabulous tastes!

At the end of the Sidra, Amalek comes to fight with the Jews. Moshe goes up to Daven, ably supported by his devoted Yehoshua and, with hearfelt connection to Hashem, the Jews were able to succeed in winning the war.

Hashem tells us not to forget what Amalek did. And so, each year, we recall the bad deeds of Amalek and his great (great….though not great) grandchild Haman. Can you remember when we do this?

Are Polar Bears white?

Polar bears are actually black and not white. Though they appear white, their fur is actually translucent. Under all that thick fur their skin is jet black. Light reflecting on their fur makes them appear white.

Tangram Challenge! Word Wheel

Using all the shapes on the left can you make the tree shape on the right?

Use the area below to write the words you have found.

The goal of a word wheel puzzle is to create as many words possible with the letters in the word wheel.

Each word must contain at least three letters. You can only use each letter once and every word must have the letter in the centre of the wheel.

Last week’s words

Here are some words you may have found from last week – you may have found more!

den end nee new yen dens deny

dyne ends lend lens need news seen

send sewn wend yens dense lends needs

needy newel newly newsy weeny wends lensed

Jokes Riddles

Q: Why couldn’t the leopard play hide and seek?

A: Because he was always spotted.

Q: Can February march? A: No, but April may.

Q: What do computers eat for a snack?

A: Microchips!

Q: If you have 13 apples in one hand and 10 oranges in the other, what do you have?

A: Big hands.

newels weensy densely newlywed newlyweds

1. I make two people out of one. What am I?

2. I can be cracked, I can be made. I can be told, I can be played. What am I?

3. You answer me, although I never ask you questions. What am I?

EXPERT ADVICE

Dear Martin

Me and my 3 siblings have inherited a house in Hendon and want to know what the property is worth? We would all need to agree on the property value and decide if we should sell it now or hold onto the house, as we have seen in the news that the property market is not doing so well currently.

Laura D.

Hi Laura

This is a very good question. There has been a lot of media coverage recently with regards to the current cost of living crisis and how that ties in with the property market. The media appears to be sowing an undercurrent of worry; but one must be mindful too that there has been a genuine change to the property market as it has been affected by things like the rising cost of mortgages, additionally, a further Bank of England base interest rate rise is predicted to be announced later this week.

However, locally within Hendon, Golders Green and the surrounding areas, we continue to find that the market is still hot and buyers remain very keen to purchase properties, we have continued to achieve good results for our vendors and we are experiencing strong demand for properties. Whilst you have not provided many details of your property, you have told us that it is in Hendon – a house in Hendon would sell well in the current market. It is crucial that it is priced correctly in order to achieve a good result. I would therefore suggest that you collectively agree to appoint two agents and ask them each to appraise the property for you. This will allow you to compare and contrast the sales appraisal and ensure you can agree on the correct asking price and in turn that you sell at the best possible price.

You should take care to select a reputable high street agent that is regulated. Roundtree Real Estate would be happy to assist; if you email me at sales@theroundtree.com I will be delighted to assist further on your journey to a successful sale.

Martin

SHIPPING

STEPHEN MORRIS SHIPPING

With almost 40 years experience, our company has the ability to move household and personal effects and antiques and fine art with the professionalism and care that comes from that experience coupled with an attention to detail.

We construct our own Tri-Wall and wooden packing cases on site and employ full-time art installers and handymen for those ‘extra’ jobs that always need doing on a move or installation. And size is no limitation – we have moved trains, boats and planes across the world and even bridges and a 5,000 seater tent!

Contact: 020 8832 2222 info@shipsms.co.uk www.shipsms.co.uk

WEALTH MANAGMENT

MARC OVITS – BA (HONS) APFS CERT PFS (DM)

Over 25 years of successful experience in financial services including 11 years of investment banking experience.

Offering expert independent financial advice to individuals, businesses, charities and trusts.

Individual services:- Wealth Management, Investment, Retirement, Estate/IHT, protection planning, Tax Mitigation and Cash Management Solutions

Business & Charity services:- Investment Planning, Business Succession & Business Exit Planning, Business Protection, Corporate Pensions, Employee Benefits, Cash Management Solutions, Profit extraction strategies

Alpha Wealth Management

Contact:

020 8203 6920

info@alphawm.co.uk www.alphawm.co.uk

FINANCIAL SERVICES (FCA) COMPLIANCE

JACOB BERNSTEIN

A member of the APCC, specialising in financial services compliance for: Mortgage, Protection and General Insurance Intermediaries; Lenders, Credit Brokers, Debt Counsellors and Debt Managers; Alternative Investment Fund Managers;

• E-Money, Payment Services, PISP, AISP and Grant-making Charities.

Contact: 020 7781 8019 info@www.richdale.co.uk www.richdale.co.uk

CHARITY

JEWISH CARE

Jewish Care is the largest health and social care organisation serving the Jewish community in London and the South East. Our vital services touch the lives of 10,000 people every week. We provide services and offer a wide range of support groups to older people, people with mental health needs, Holocaust survivors, people living with dementia, people with a variety of needs and carers support.

Contact: 020 8922 2222 helpline@jcare.org www.jewishcare.org

BUTCHERS

KOSHER DELI

Kosher Deli was established with the intention of making kosher meat and poultry affordable for all with the convenience of multiple locations and a comprehensive delivery service. All this without compromising on kashrus or quality. Locations in: Golders Green, Hendon, Temple Fortune, Edgware, Borehamwood & Manchester

Contact: 020 8381 4450 info@kosherdeliuk.co.uk www.kosherdeli.co.uk

ESTATE AGENT

MARTIN FRYDENSON - ROUNDTREE REAL ESTATE

Roundtree Real Estate are your local experienced Estate Agent having been established on the High Street since 2009. We are both ARLA and NAEA Propertymark regulated and we are here to offer you expert advice in Property Sales, Lettings, Commercial and Full Management Services, covering Hendon, Golders Green, Finchley, Colindale and surrounding areas. We have built long standing relationships with all our clients and should you have any property related queries please do contact us.

Contact: 020 8203 2111 mail@theroundtree.com www.theroundtree.com

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

MARTIN HEIMAN – SMARTINET

We’ve been providing businesses with all of their communication needs since 2010. We specialise in supplying businesses with VoIP Packages, Mobile Plans, Broadband, Card Merchant Services, Leased Lines, On-Hold Marketing, and Call Centre Services. Smartinet, your reliable and efficient business communications provider.

Contact: 0333 613 0000 connect@smartinet.co.uk smartinet.co.uk

ENERGY PERFORMANCE

EPC NATIONAL

EPC NATIONAL are leading experts in providing EPC certificates for domestic & non-domestic properties nationwide.

Especially with the new regulations coming, we provide guidance to all of our clients. Call the team to discuss any requirements.

Contact: 03300 881141 info@epcnational.co.uk www.epcnational.co.uk

UK ALIYAH ADVISORS

UK ALIYAH ADVISORS - LAWYER ISRAEL – HAIM GIVATI & CO

At Haim Givati & Co we combine high legal expertise with individual personal service. We specialize in Property, Corporate, Not-For-Profit and Entrepreneurship, empowering us to consult in business and legal matters.

Our lawyers are fluent in English and Hebrew - helping to guide you through the often daunting bureaucracies of Israeli law.

Contact: +972 (0)2 941 1001 ukaa@givatilaw.co.il givatilaw.co.il/about-us/

FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS

STEPHEN COLMAN – INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS

An independent mortgage broker directly authorised by FCA specialising – for over 25 years - in the more ‘challenging’ situations. We take care of the whole mortgage process on your behalf, handling all aspects of buying your residential or investment property. In addition over the past 5 years we have been at the forefront in arranging Equity Release mortgages for the over 55’s

Contact: 07956 234 524 020 8458 9137 stephencolman2@aol.com

BE THE LIFELINE MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

For many families who have a seriously ill child, the cost of living crisis following two very difficult pandemic years, is almost too much to bear. The devastating emotional, practical and financial toll of caring for a child with a complex medical condition, means more and more families in the community are needing Camp Simcha’s vital support.

We need to raise £2.8million this year so we can continue to be a lifeline for these families - providing life-changing practical and therapeutic help, as well as bringing hope and joy at the darkest of times.

Donate at charityextra.com/campsimcha

Every donation will be doubled

1,433 Family members supported

5,000+ Attendances at Camp Simcha retreats, parties and outings

2,713

IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS... 020 8202 9297 (head office) 0161 341 0589 (Manchester) appeal@campsimcha.org.uk

9,568 Therapeutic sessions delivered to seriously ill children and siblings

Hours of support provided by our Family Liaison Officers

1,656 Hours of respite provided

23 Practical, therapeutic and emotional support services @CampSimchaUK