Introducing our new name: Congregation B’nai Midbar at SaddleBrooke (transliterated: B’nay Meedbar, meaning ‘The People of the Desert’) WOW! What a ride it has been! You think that changing a name would be easy. Well, it wasn’t. But thanks to many—we did it! We are proud to announce that we are now known as: Congregation B’nai Midbar at SaddleBrooke.
And, we have a logo, too!These major accomplishments were achieved by Seth Eisner (name change) and Bonnie Lasky (logo).
Our Name, B’nai Midbar reflects the character of our community, our nature, diversity and determination. We live in the desert, as did our ancestors, and we have wandered here from all over the world. We continue with new and active lives coupled with our faith, self-reliance and determination to build the best community possible. Our logo says who we are and where we are.
A Very Special ShabbatOur services held on Friday, April 19 were led by Rabbi Seltzer, assisted by Cantor Eliyanah Powers and accompanist Dr. Joshua Nichols. It was a poignant Shabbat as Rabbi Seltzer will be retiring at the end of this service. The combination of our incredible and talented clergy is awe inspiring as we wish Rabbi Seltzer a joyful retirement.
In recognition of Rabbi Seltzer, the April services will be preceded with a cocktail party to celebrate and honor his time with our congregation. The Oneg is sponsored by Rabbi Seltzer’s wife, Rita Polack. If you wish to sponsor an Oneg for a special event, remembrance or celebration, email Judi Friedman at judi9547@gmail.com.
What to do?A Congregation without a Rabbi is a predicament. Ron Solomon stepped up and led the Rabbinic search. Our new Rabbi is Daniel (Danny) Price. We welcome Rabbi Danny (as he likes to be called) to our pulpit. Rabbi Danny earned his bachelor’s degree in music and communications, a Master’s of Jewish Education and received his Rabbinic Ordination. He has over 20 years of experience as a Rabbi, Educator and Song Leader. Please mark your calendars for meeting Rabbi Danny at an informal gathering on Sunday, August 25.
PassoverPassover is celebrated from April 22 through April 30. Many seders will be held to recount the Jewish history of being slaves in Egypt. With the guidance, Moses and the Jewish people walked through the desert for 40 years. At which time, the Jewish people were allowed to enter the land of Israel.
The holiday this year is special, in ways that we can’t fathom. Since Saturday, October 7, there is a unity that persists among the Jewish people. No matter our paths in life, our beliefs, we are united as one.
Our prayers and faith go to those still held in captivity by Hamas. Our hope is that one day, very soon, they will enjoy the freedom we experience today in our homes and community.
What’s HappeningOur New Members Brunch in March was held at the home of Bonnie Lasky and Irv Rothenberg. New members and the board gathered to learn about each other. Esta Goldstein, Chair, introduced each board member, their activities and area of responsibility. A request was made for volunteers because we, the board, can’t do it all by ourselves. Yvette Sabulsky has volunteered to lead communications reaching out to members. Sue Spaniol will be helping Bonnie with our database. Our thanks to both for enriching our congregation.
Sorrow filled our congregation at the recent passing of long-time member, Bill Kaplan. Bill was a man of few words, but whenever he spoke, people listened, as he was both warm and wise. Bill and Sherry are a special couple, always welcoming and caring. Bill was a righteous man, and we honor his memory.
Shavuot is a holiday honoring the giving of the Ten Commandments from the Lord to Moses. I promise you we will not trek to Sinai, but we will celebrate! In modern times, we have all night studies and eat dairy foods. B’nai Midbar will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 11, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. by having learning tables and eating cheesecake!
Repeating and HopingWhen I came to SaddleBrooke, I brought a tradition of giving attendees at Rosh Hashanah morning services a honey cake. Honey cakes symbolize a sweet and happy New Year. Over 80 honey cakes were baked by our members and given to the congregation this past Rosh Hashanah.
I have an opportunity for a member of our congregation to become the Honey Cake Baker coordinator. No baking, just coordinating. Please contact me if interested: meinbund@sbcglobal.net. I do hope that you are interested so we can keep this tradition going.
B’nai Midbar is a small and welcoming congregation. If you have questions or wish to join our congregation, please feel free to contact Esta Goldstein (520) 825-1181 for information.
Wishes of safe travels for our snowbirds and for those staying in Tucson, a pleasant, not too hot summer!
