Historical references attributed to contemporary times seem to appear almost magical when I reflect on their relevance. Suddenly there is a new way to interpret an old story. So it was with the tale of the myth of Masada at Rabbi Gadi’s Lunch and Learn history class. Who could forget a visit to Masada? Or that hike up Snake Trail? Located on the eastern edge of the Judaean Desert overlooking the Dead Sea, in what [...]
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you, the members of CTI, for your continued support of the successful contract extension process. As we begin another chapter on our journey, it is nice to look back at the achievements of the past year, as we traversed the rough waters of Covid. Normally, at this time of the year, I would be on my way to the Holy Land on my annual pilgrimage. [...]
After nine months, we can say without a scintilla of modesty that we have birthed a success. Folks tell us all the time how much they enjoy The Schmooze that arrives weekly in each reader’s inbox. The videos — from the ridiculous to the sublime — and the contributions of members and friends make our schmooze your schmooze, our success your success. We invite all members and friends to keep up the good work. Let [...]
Fresh on the heels of December’s highly successful personal care items collection for CAST, the four shul women behind the project have organized as the Tikkun Olam Initiative, and are about to launch the next chapter of giving on behalf of our shul. “Put a Chicken in Every Pot” is the initiative for February and March. CAST has identified chickens as a major need during winter’s cold months, and the women have responded, purchasing 64 [...]
The synagogue is still closed. We’re sure you’ve noticed. And yet, thanks to the miracle of technology and the wonder of Zoom (currently $384.53 per share, up from $70.26 one year ago), lots of us attend services every week. While relaxing at home, snacks at the ready, we sing the songs, recite the prayers, and thoroughly enjoy the informal nature of prayer every Friday at 7:30 p.m. And we return on Saturday mornings at 9:30, [...]
Cast Call! Get out the grease paint. CTI’s Purimshpiel is coming to your Zoom screens on Thursday, Feb. 25, at 7:30 p.m. Next stop: Broadway. Hey, ya never know… Rabbi Gadi promises a wild shpiel. But he needs help. Starring roles in his dramatic tale of heroism and sweet revenge await all actors and over-actors. No screen test required. Here’s how to snag a part in this Purim playlet: Call the synagogue at 631-477-0232 and [...]
This month’s Oculus feature is a 15x14-inch conceptual abstract, constructed on six wooden cradle panels painted with oil stick. The work is by Judith K. Weiner, one of the founding members of the shul’s Judaism and Art group. The panels are multiple concepts of space exploring the spaces between and within the spaces — how they interact, how they influence each other. “Here, in the push and pull of competing forces, is where I find the light [...]
We’ve all heard of Amazon.com, and probably most of us, at one time or another, have shopped its thousands of products and connected with the conglomerate’s many hundreds of affiliate members. But buried inside all those big numbers is a small idea that can make a difference — yes, a little difference — but remember: Mighty oaks from little acorns grow. Here’s how it works: Congregation Tifereth Israel is registered as a charity with an [...]
There are times in life when we need to make a decision. Do we want to move forward or not? Do we seek revenge or do we seek forgiveness. Do we let our anger hold us back or do we turn it into fuel for building. Every January, the Greenport Ecumenical Ministries (GEM) holds a service to pray for religious unity and mutual understanding and dialogue. This year, in the face of national turmoil and division [...]
“Why don’t you Jews go back to Jew-land,” shrieked my friend’s mother, standing on the hill in front of her house while my 6-year-old self stood below her on the sidewalk. Looking up at her red face contorted with anger, I just waited there, confused. I played with Joan all the time. Why did her mom say that? That was an early lesson in antisemitism, the first of other such events through the years. But [...]
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