The Official Newsletter of Ne’ve Shalom, the Hull Reform Synagogue

Shofar Shalom – Cheshvan 5779 2

CHAIR’S REPORT

Shalom. Wow, what a busy few weeks we all have had at our wonderful traditional Shul. On Sunday 9 September, we opened our doors of the Shul for the Hull Heritage Open Day. I was meeting and greeting along with Henry and some 60 plus guests attended over the course of the day. I would like to thank Aimi, Ian, Tim and Malcolm for all the hard work showing guests around the Shul and explaining the various Judaica on show, the memorial boards and the Torah Scrolls. The day went really well and we have received some truly positive feedback. We could of done with more help throughout the day, as we actually had a queue of people waiting to go round at one point. We have opted again to take part next year. This year’s High Holy Days services have been truly amazing with our team of dedicated Lay readers conducting the services. This shows that we can all work together and maintain a high standard. I would like to thank our Shul Life President, Ian Sugarman, along with our Senior Warden, Malcolm Rosenberg, for co-ordinating this year’s truly remarkable services. The Sermons given by Sarita, Jackie and Tim where well received. I would like to thank all those involved with conducting the Services, delivering the various readings and reciting the Torah Portions. You were excellent.

A few of our members turned up to build and decorate our Sukkah. It does seem to get better every year with all the interesting fruit and vegetable available now (chilli peppers and beets?). Thank you all. In the evening, Ian led a tremendous Sukkot service and we all made Kiddush in the Sukkah under the stars. Sadly, we lost one of our members Doreen Lurie-King over the High Holy days. We all wish the family a long life. We also all wish Michael and

Marija Guilas well on their move to America to join their daughter. This year’s Simchat Torah Honours have gone to Gillian Smith and Tim Harris, who have both done so much for the Shul. Ian led the Service, Tony read from the Sefer and Aimi organised a splendid Kiddush. There was a very good attendance which created a fun atmosphere. The food went down really well and we were able to provide ‘doggy bags’. Please don’t forget to attend this year’s AJEX service at Pryme Street Synagogue on Sunday on 11 November 2018. Please be seated for 2.45pm. We also have a film showing of “Sixty-Six” planned in our Shul hall at 2.00pm on Sunday 25 November 2018. Further details can be found on page 3.

Cheshvan 5779 October/November 2018

Shofar Shalom – Cheshvan 5779 3

SOCIAL AND PERSONAL

PLAQUE DEDICATION

Following the Simchat Torah Service on Sunday evening, 30 September 2018, a long overdue plaque, dedicating Geoffrey Levy and Aubrey Gordon, was unveiled by Lesley Annis. As the most long-standing member of the Shul, Lesley said she felt honoured to dedicate the plaque to two outstanding and committed individuals, without whom the Shul would not have existed to this day.

_________________________________________________________________________

HULL JEWISH COMMUNITY CARE (HJCC) For information, to all the friends of the Friendly Circle, the next events in our calendar will be held at the Pryme Street Synagogue on Wednesday 24 October 2018 at 2.00pm. There will be entertainment, as well as the usual sumptuous repast. HJCC will be delighted to welcome you all, especially the younger members of the community.

For further details or to request a lift to this events, please contact Harold Flasher, Chairman of HJCC, on (01482) 655 537 or 07766 416 605, (or indeed, any member of the committee). _________________________________________________________________________

FREE FILM SHOW FOR ALL Following our recent successful film showings, there will be a showing of the film “Sixty Six” in the Shul hall at the Ne’ve Shalom Synagogue. Bernie Reubens, a young Jewish boy, is about to have his Barmitzvah. Initially, he meticulously plans a lavish reception to upstage that of his older brother Alvie, but as the family's finances lurch from one disaster to another, the family is forced to lower Bernie's expectations and stage the Barmitzvah reception at home in North London.

When England reaches the 1966 football World Cup Final, most of the guests make excuses not to come to the reception so that they can watch the game. If you wish to view the ‘trailer’, it can be found at https://youtu.be/SL7pNPk8hyI The event is taking place on Sunday 25 November 2018 at 2.00pm and is free to anyone wishing to attend. Free soft drinks and popcorn will be provided. If you wish to attend, please ring (01482) 658312 with your name and the number of people in your ‘party’. This is a communal event for all and one not to be missed as it’s written by Jack Rosenthal.

Dedicated to

GEOFFREY LEVY and AUBREY GORDON

who were the first spiritual leaders

and Life Presidents of

the Ne’ve Shalom Synagogue

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FORTHCOMING EVENTS

CHANUKAH SERVICE, KIDDUSH AND ‘RACE NIGHT’ This year, we are holding our Chanukah Service, and a very special Chanukah Kiddush and Social Evening, on Saturday evening, 8 December 2018 starting at 7.00pm. As this is also the seventh night of Chanukah, we will be lighting our giant Chanukiah. Following the Service and in keeping with tradition, there is the opportunity to sample Chanukah-style food, such as fried fish balls, latkes and donuts.

We will then be holding a ‘race night’ to which everyone is welcome to come along. Although betting on the result of horse races will be taking place, this will be using ‘monopoly money’ to place bets. The team making the most money over the eight screened races will be the winner. Please make every effort to attend what should be a fun evening. _________________________________________________________________________

ANNUAL OPEN FRIDAY NIGHT SERVICE

Following the huge success of previous Open Friday Night Services, the next one will take place on Friday 22 February 2019 starting at 7.00pm. What makes this Service different from the normal Friday Night service is the running commentary from those leading the Service explaining the nature of the prayers being recited, their background, origin and the traditional rituals being observed. After the Service, and following the Brachot over the wine and bread, there will be the Kiddush with a wide range of “Jewish-style” foods. There also will be opportunity to

look around the Synagogue, talk to those members present and examine the Ark, Scrolls and other artefacts. ________________________________________________________________________

SYNAGOGUE COUNCIL Chairman: Andy Harbert (Shul Management) 07736 397858 Vice Chairman: Phil O’Driscoll (Projects) 07903 578490 Secretary: Joanne Kearsley (Administration) 01724 340506 Treasurer: Aimi Sugarman (Financial) 07507 891608 Senior Warden: Malcolm Rosenberg (Services) 01482 846712 Council Members: Henry Goldstone (Security/Plaques) 01482 667258 Elaine Winetroube (Telephone) 01482 571035 Audrey Sugarman (Welfare/Catering) 01482 835864 Co-opted Members: Jim Lightowler (Building Maintenance) 01482 654663

Chris Lilley (General) 07972 563194 Shirley Cassidy (Catering) 01652 634479

Life President: Ian Sugarman 01482 835864

Shofar Shalom – Cheshvan 5779 5

SYNAGOGUE COUNCIL MEETING

21 September 2018 Present - Andy Harbert (Chair), Joanne Kearsley (Secretary), Audrey Sugarman, Henry Goldstone, Elaine Winetroube, Phil O’Driscoll, Malcolm Rosenberg and Ian Sugarman (Life President). Business The Chair reported that, along with Helen, Ian and Aimi, he had attended the wedding of Suzanne Finlay and David Pedro at Sukkat Shalom on 12 August 2018. He added that it had been a wonderful day. The Service of Affirmation for Gill Drummond, which was conducted by Rabbi Danny Rich, on 1 September 2018 was very emotional event. Rabbi Rich then gave an amazing educational Torah Study which was thoroughly enjoyed by all those present.

On Sunday 9 September, the Shul opened its doors to the public as part of the Hull Heritage Open Day. Surprisingly, approximately 60 interested people attended over the course of the day. The Chair thanked all those who were there to help and assist, as this was a very busy time of the Jewish year. The Chair also commented on the superb High Holy Days, which were enjoyed by all members and friends and he thanked everyone who participated with the services. Finally, the Chair thanked Cecelia Sugarman for conducting the Funeral Service for Doreen Lurie-King and to Audrey, Gillian, Lesley and Susan Rubenstein for the catering. Approximately 60 people came to the Service at the cemetery and then back to the Shul. Audrey and the team dealt with the numbers in their usual competent manner.

In the Treasurer’s absence, the Chair reported that although there was no updated information, he understood that all the accounts were in a healthy position, no large bills were outstanding and subscriptions were slowly being paid.

The building of the Sukkah will be on Sunday 23 September starting at 10.00am. This will be followed by the Sukkot Service at 7.00pm. The Simchat Torah Service will take place on Sunday 30 September at 7.00pm and this year’s Kallah Torah and Chatan B’resheet will be Gillian Smith and Tim Harris respectively. The AJEX memorial service will take place on Sunday 11 November at Pryme Street at 2.45pm and the Shul is planning to hold another film show on Sunday 25 November at 2.00pm. The film is entitled “66”. An advertisement has been placed in the Watchman. The Chair suggested that the Shul hold a Chanukah Social Race Evening on Saturday 8 December 2018 and another Open Service on Friday 22 February 2019. Both events to start at 7.00pm. Following a brief discussion, the Council unanimously agreed. James the caretaker had tendered his resignation, as he felt that he could no longer carry out his duties and would leave on 19 October 2018. In response to Elaine’s query about her uncle Warren’s donation, the Chair suggested that the Shul consider purchasing stained-glass effect Perspex sheets to cover the windows in the Shul hall. The Council agreed and Elaine was asked to look into possible costings. The Council agreed to participate in the Hull Heritage Open Day 2019 event, due to this year’s success. Ian agreed to provide feedback to the organisers. The Chair reported on the recent anti-Semitic graffiti and hate crimes in Hull city centre. He informed the Council that the police had arrested a suspect and that the Shul would be receiving a greater police presence for Services and events. Date of next Council meeting – Friday 2 November 2018

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REMEMBRANCE WEEKEND 2018 The following announcement is from Michael Westerman, the President of the Hull Jewish Representative Council. On Sunday 11 November 2018, at 3.00pm, the Annual Service of Remembrance will be held at the Hull Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, Pryme Street, Anlaby, under the auspices of the Hull Jewish Representative Council. Guests to be seated by 2.45 pm. Throughout this year the community will have witnessed the sights and sounds of the horror of the two World Wars via the media of television, radio and the internet. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers, sailors and airmen were killed in action, including many Jewish personnel. Many, as mentioned previously, were from our own Jewish community here in Hull. Each year we vow never to forget them, and during this Solemn Act of Remembrance, their names will be read out. Let us all remember them. We look forward to a large turnout, by members of both the Orthodox and Reform Congregations, to honour those who gave their lives, ensuring our security, in today’s troubled world. All are invited to attend the Kiddush, at the Pryme Street Community Centre, sponsored by the President of the Hull Jewish Representative Council, after the Shabbat morning service, on November 10 2018. _________________________________________________________________________

Reform Judaism High Holy Day Appeal 5779 Reform Judaism together with our communities have launched a new project as part of our Communities that Care Initiative, focussing on mental wellbeing over the next two years; which will deliver practical ways for us to become a mental wellbeing friendly community. Throughout the year we will raise awareness; support welfare and care committees; identify training needs in partnership with mental wellbeing experts; hold a national conference on mental wellbeing with keynote speakers and workshops; and provide practical guidance about the variety of issues around mental wellbeing. If you wish to donate, cheques should be made payable to “Hull Reform Synagogue” and sent to our Treasurer, Aimi Sugarman, at 18 Bradgate Park, Kingswood, Hull HU7 3JA. For further information about this appeal, please contact Cassie Shoffren, Fundraising Executive cshoffren@rjuk.org

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YOM KIPPUR SERMON This year, our High Holy Day Services were conducted by a team of the Shul’s Lay Readers supported by members providing readings during parts of the Services. This original sermon was written by Tim Harris and delivered by Tim during our Yom Kippur Service. He has dedicated the sermon to the memory of Geoff Annis. We will hopefully be publishing the Rosh Hashanah and Kol Nidre sermons in the next issue. In recent months, I have taken up a new hobby which involves purchasing some very expensive equipment in order for me to pursue my new pastime. I have found myself almost religiously glued to eBay in the hope of finding that once in a life time bargain, which in itself possesses a dilemma. As I look at each advert I am constantly questioning myself as to whether the advert is genuine, what should I bid and will I be outbid by someone else? If I am successful have I paid too much, is the item in question what I really wanted and worst of all, am I buying a fake and ultimately losing my money? Equally, the seller will be having similar quandaries of their own. These challenging predicaments beg a question which seems virtually impossible to answer: who ultimately bears responsibility for this obviously self-made problem? We might reasonably expect the seller to bear full responsibility if anything did go wrong . Yet should we not also expect as the purchaser to take some responsibility to safeguard our own interest, or is it a collective responsibility on both parties - even knowing that others will not always agree? This tension between individual and collective responsibility is an important feature of the High Holy Days. Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, contains a deeply evocative liturgy using the analogy of a shepherd inspecting every single sheep individually, making it clear that each one of us is judged by G-d alone. Yet, all of our prayers are delivered in the plural. Each person confesses transgressions that they may never have committed themselves because of a sense of collective responsibility for the whole. A highlight of the High Holy Days Service is the moment when the ‘kohanim’, those who are of priestly descent, face the congregation and bless them. But what would happen if the whole congregation were of priestly descent? To whom would they direct their blessing? The Talmud poses this question and offers a fascinating answer. They must nonetheless, face an empty room and give the same Blessing. This conjures an image bordering on the absurd and yet, the conclusion is extremely powerful. The blessings given in our Synagogues are for everyone around the world and not just for those in front of us. We must be sensitive to, and, be in tune with the concerns and aspirations of those beyond our walls. All citizens have a fundamental responsibility that extends beyond themselves. The great Jewish sage, Hillel, put it like this: “If I’m not for myself, who will be for me? And if I’m only for myself, what am I?” At times when we are faced with our own daily dilemmas and predicaments, we should be mindful of the greater good. The High Holy Days teaches us to be prepared to give a little more and expect a little less in return.

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An ancient Jewish teaching explores this question by contrasting Israel’s two landlocked seas, the Sea of Galilee, important to Christians and Jews alike, and the Dead Sea. Both are famous. The former for being one of the largest sweet water lakes and the latter for its high concentration of salt, which inhibits sea-life in its waters. The River Jordan rises on the slopes of Mount Hermon on the border between Syria and Lebanon, and flows into the Sea of Galilee. At its southern-most point, the Jordan re-emerges and its waters reach the Dead Sea, from which there is no outlet. The Sea of Galilee, which both receives and gives water, embodies kindness and generosity, leading to sweet consequences. The Dead Sea, however, as its name suggests, reminds us that taking without giving will never lead to anything positive. Existing only to receive is not an existence at all. In this spirit, the Hebrew for love, ahava, literally means ‘giving’. A truly enriching relationship provides life-enhancing opportunities to give and share through selfless love. On the eve of Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar, there is a beautiful custom for parents to bless children. It is a time when we are mindful of the Book of Genesis which reveals details of Abraham’s last will and testament. We are told, "Abraham gave everything he had to Isaac and he gave gifts to his other children". Now, how can this be possible? If Abraham gave everything he had to Isaac, what was left for the others? Isaac had proved his worth to Abraham and so he received all that meant everything to his father - his identity, his values and his faith, while to the others he gave material gifts. They received something to live with, while Isaac received something to live for. The power of a meaningful existence was encapsulated by the renowned Holocaust survivor, Viktor Frankl, who said, “Those who have a ‘why’ to live, can bear with almost any 'how‘.” This is what we will be celebrating today on Yom Kippur. Through fasting, we will acknowledge the gift of a meaningful life, centred around our families, our friends and our communities and the values and deep principles which govern our actions; blessings that don’t cost anything and which mean everything to us. The greatest gift we can give to our children, families and communities, is to empower them to have meaning, fulfilment and joy, through a life of values that transcends a hunger for materialistic gain. Empowerment, unlike an unwanted gift, will never end up on eBay. _________________________________________________________________________

VISITING THE SICK – BIKKUR CHOLIM

If any members of the Synagogue are aware of Jewish patients admitted to either the Hull Royal Infirmary or Castle Hill Hospital, could they please contact Ian Sugarman, the Jewish Lay Chaplain, on (01482) 835864 who can assist them with the provision of kosher food, spiritual guidance and visiting. For those members who are poorly and recovering at home, Audrey is still available to visit, whether it’s just for a cup of

tea or a chat or to provide some support. If you are interested in receiving a visit, please give Audrey a call on (01482) 563835. All calls to both Ian and Audrey will be treated in confidence.

Shofar Shalom – Cheshvan 5779 9

A SPECIAL OCCASION Our roving reporter, Jackie Lukes, has sent us the following account of Rabbi Danny Rich’s visit to Ne’ve Shalom to conduct Gill Drummond’s Admission to the Faith Ceremony. What is the only thing you can eat because it's kosher yet which comes from an animal that isn't kosher? This riddle posed to us by Rabbi Danny Rich came in his Torah workshop on Saturday 1 September about the portion for the week, Deuteronomy chapter 26 verses 1-15. What an honour and a pleasure it was to have his visit and this study session rich with insights and mischievous fun. The answer, relating to verse 9 'a land flowing with milk and honey', is honey from bees. They had date-honey in those days. Ian Sugarman took the service and then, as an educative kind of sermon, came this workshop. It reminded us of the exodus story and has the evocative line 'A wandering Aramean was my ancestor' (maybe Abraham, verse 5). The passage also has the important historical development from dispersed shrines all over the place to a centralized Temple and then to the democratic participative synagogues we have now (another riddle from verse 2: where did God live? our answer now is in us, with rabbis who are teachers, not priests inheriting their position). But the main reason for the visit was the ceremony of welcome into the faith for Gill Drummond, there with her son Isaac. This was impressive and moving. Examined and approved by a panel of Rabbis, Gill had shown her sincerity and learning. The morning ended with a delicious Audrey and Gillian Kiddush and a specially made Lucy lemon-scented cake. _________________________________________________________________________

ASK THE RABBI

ReformJudaism.org responds to the following questions: “What, if anything, can be done with the etrog after Sukkot?”

The etrog is the citron fruit used as a component in the arba minim, the four species. Along with the lulav (palm) branches, these represent the agricultural aspect of Sukkot. Great care is given to selecting a blemish free etrog and caring for it during Sukkot. There are a number of uses for the etrog. Insert cloves all over the etrog, covering it completely. Once done, you have a fragrant spice box for Havdalah. It will smell wonderful and last a long time. This is a great family activity and can be the impetus for adding the ritual of Havdalah to your observance of Shabbat. The etrog, like other citrus fruits, can be used to make a flavourful jam or marmalade. The latest trend is to make etrog infused vodka. Enjoy the fragrant etrog during Sukkot and for many weeks after.

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ENGLISH YAHRZEIT DATES WHICH CORRESPOND TO THE HEBREW DATES FOR RELATIVES OF MEMBERS OF

NE’VE SHALOM – THE HULL REFORM SYNAGOGUE

Harry Bransky Harold Bermitz Chaim Raphael Israel Bermitz Boris Furman Myer Peysner Ivor Winetroube Mary Gordon Gillian Mendoza Sam Winer Domini Highsmith Clara Winer

13 Oct. 2018 14 Oct. 2018 14 Oct. 2018 18 Oct. 2018 18 Oct. 2018 19 Oct. 2018 23 Oct. 2018 27 Oct. 2018 29 Oct. 2018 30 Oct. 2018 1 Nov. 2018 2 Nov. 2018

Max Albeck Janos Lusztig Richard Friend Hugo Sprinz Lynn Shields Jack Bermitz Frances Godfrey Julius Dubb Lothar Seewald Jean Cooper Leon Rosenthall Aubrey Sadofsky

6 Nov. 2018 7 Nov. 2018 14 Nov. 2018 15 Nov. 2018 15 Nov. 2018 16 Nov. 2018 17 Nov. 2018 18 Nov. 2018 18 Nov. 2018 19 Nov. 2018 19 Nov. 2018 19 Nov. 2018

Traditionally, Jewish Yahrzeits are remembered on the Hebrew date, which means that there might be some variation in the English date each year. If the Hebrew date is observed, it must be remembered that the Yahrzeit starts the evening before. Memorial prayers for the deceased will be recited during the Friday Night Service for those Yahrzeits which fall during the coming week. If a Yahrzeit falls on a Friday Night, please remember that the prayers will usually be recited during the Friday Night Service the week before.

1 Day Emergency First Aid at work £60.00 plus vat

2 Day First Aid at Work Requalification £110.00 plus vat

3 Day First Aid at Work £160.00 plus vat

2 Day Paediatric First Aid £95.00 plus vat

1 Day CIEH 2 Health & Safety £70.00 plus vat

1 Day CIEH 2 Food Safety £70.00 plus vat

3 Hour Asbestos Awareness £45.00 plus vat

3 Hour Manual Handling Awareness £45.00 plus vat

2 Hour Fire Safety Awareness £45.00 plus vat On-site training If you have a group of employees (min 8) requiring training, then we can come to you. On-site training can be tailored to your needs and is both time and cost effective.

Shofar Shalom – Cheshvan 5779 11

FORTHCOMING SERVICES AND EVENTS

Date

Time Leader Refreshment Rota

Friday 12 October

7.00pm

Sarita Robinson Lesley Annis Jackie Lukes

Friday 19 October

7.00pm

Aimi Sugarman Christine Joseph-Jay Audrey Sugarman

Friday 26 October

7.00pm

Mark Huntington Shirley Cassidy Joanne Kearsley

Friday 2 November (Council Meeting)

6.00pm

Andy Harbert N/A

Friday 2 November

7.00pm

Malcolm Rosenberg Lesley Annis Jackie Lukes

Shabbat 3 November

10.30am Ian Sugarman Tony Sevilla-Harland

Ann Sevilla-Harland Gillian Smith

Friday 9 November

7.00pm

Andy Harbert Phil O’Driscoll

Deborah Wrapson Gill Drummond

Sunday 11 November (Annual Remembrance Service)

2.45pm Pryme Street Synagogue

N/A

Friday 16 November

7.00pm

Sarita Robinson Shirley Cassidy Joanne Kearsley

Friday 23 November

7.00pm

Aimi Sugarman Elaine Winetroube Audrey Sugarman

Sunday 25 November (Free Film Show)

2.30pm Andy Harbert Aimi Sugarman

Friday 30 November

7.00pm

Mark Huntington Lesley Annis Jackie Lukes

Shabbat 1 December

10.30am Ian Sugarman Tony Sevilla-Harland

Ann Sevilla-Harland Gillian Smith

Friday 7 December

7.00pm

Malcolm Rosenberg Christine Joseph-Jay Audrey Sugarman

Saturday 8 December Chanukah Service and Social

7.00pm Ian Sugarman Aimi Sugarman Elaine Winetroube

Friday 14 December

7.00pm

Andy Harbert Phil O’Driscoll

Deborah Wrapson Gill Drummond

Friday 21 December

7.00pm

Sarita Robinson Shirley Cassidy Joanne Kearsley

Friday 28 December

7.00pm

Aimi Sugarman Elaine Winetroube Audrey Sugarman

Friday 4 January

7.00pm

Mark Huntington Lesley Annis Jackie Lukes

If you are unable to take your turn on the service rota, please arrange for someone else to take your place. If you are unable to take your turn on the refreshment rota, please arrange for someone else to take your place and inform Audrey Sugarman on (01482) 563835 to ensure that sufficient refreshments are available.

Shofar Shalom – Cheshvan 5779 12

TV Antiques Expert

WANTED TO BUY Antique & Modern Jewellery

Gold and Silver

CALL FOR FREE ADVICE Office: 01482 677 006 Mobile: 07876 507 774

MEMORIAL BOARD The Synagogue Council would again like to inform members that there is still space available on the Memorial Board for members to purchase a plaque in memory of their loved one(s). For further details, please contact Henry Goldstone on (01482) 667258.

KIDDUSH SPONSORING During the year, you might want to mark that special occasion in a unique, yet innovative manner. In order to help you solve your dilemma, the Synagogue Council has agreed to allow the sponsoring of Kiddushim. If you would like further details, or wish to reserve a particular date, please contact Audrey Sugarman on (01482 563835)

POTENTIAL NEW MEMBERS

If any members of the Synagogue are aware of, or are contacted by, potential new members, hoping to join our Synagogue, please advise them to contact our Secretary Joanne Kearsley on 01724 340506 or at joannekearsley@yahoo.co.uk who will provide them with further information and the necessary application forms.

Contact Michael on

644987 or 07590 123 270

or at westermans@gmail.com