Congregation Micah
October Observer Scene
Congregation Micah - an inclusive, innovative synagogue exploring and celebrating Jewish life - is committed to building community and repairing the world! We offer creative and diverse ways to live a Jewish life in Tennessee and beyond, using the rich beliefs and practices of Progressive Judaism as our foundation. Visit our 30+ acre campus or access our virtual programs from our website, www.congregationmicah.org. Like us on socials: Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @MicahNashville; sign up for our e-blasts; learn and pray with us in-person, or livestream our service on our website, YouTube, or Facebook. In our tent, there is room for everyone!
Weekly Events:
Sanctuary Shabbat Services: Fridays at 6 PM
At Micah, we approach God in many ways: the inspiration of words, the beauty of sacred space, the authenticity of our intentions, and through the power of music and song. Join us in-person or virtually for services this month that will be as diverse as they are engaging, as moving as they are participatory. Come early and schmooze with us starting at 5:30 PM! Light refreshments are served.
Saturday Morning Torah Study: 9 AM on Zoom
Deep conversations about the text with thoughtful and caring people led by the clergy.
Mah Jongg: Tuesdays from 12:30 PM- 3:30 PM
Join our players for an afternoon of fun in the social hall! For more information, contact Paula: pgkwn@comcast.net.
Schmooze & Views: Thursdays from 10:30 AM- 11:30 AM
At Micah, we keep politics off the pulpit but not out of the building. Share your views in a round-table discussion on current events facilitated by Rabbi Flip and Dr. Bob Smith.
October Events
Adult Hebrew: Sundays, October 1, 15, 22, & 29, at 10:30 AM. Guest instructor Ethan Levin is patient and personal as he teaches any and all who want to begin the journey of learning the Holy Tongue.
Micah Reads: Monday, October 2, at 7 PM on Zoom Education Director Julie Greenberg leads the discussion on “Who By Fire: Leonard Cohen in the Sinai” by Matti Friedman on October 2 and “The Flight Portfolio” by Julie Orringer on November 6.
21st Century American Judaism: Tuesday, October 3, at 12:00 PM What are the key factors contributing to and influencing a changing Jewish landscape in this country? What will it mean for our institutions, for political engagement, philanthropy and more? How does current tech/AI innovations affect todays Judaism, if at all? This Adult education opportunity is presented by Rabbis Laurie Rice and Shana Mackler, featuring guest Steven Windmueller.
Mussar Class with Karen Strock: Jewish Spiritual Ethics Wednesdays, October 4, 11, 18, 25 This Introduction to Mussar course is an invitation to enter 5784 with renewal, meaning, purpose, and hope. Join Rabbi Karen Strok, dear friend and rabbinic colleague to Rabbis Laurie and Flip, in a 4-week interactive Introduction to Mussar course, designed for beginners. We will cover the guiding principles of Mussar and spiritual practices that can make us even better versions of ourselves. Our text will be "Everyday Holiness" by Alan Morinis and we will have weekly reading assignments to enhance our learning.
Simchat Torah: Friday, October 6, at 6 PM
Our clergy leads our celebration as we unwrap the Torah and wrap up the season on this magical night. Special Guest Michael Ochs joins us to play some classic melodies we all know and love. Our Pre-Neg begins at 5:30 with services starting promptly at 6 PM.
ReJewVenation: Tuesdays, October 10, 17, 24, & 31, at 6 PM. Rabbi Laurie leads this educational opportunity to reconnect with you with your personal Judaism.
Broadway Shabbat: Friday, October 20, at 6 PM.
Wilkommen, bienvenue, and welcome to this special Broadway Shabbat Service. Don’t worry, we won’t make you steal any bread for your food – you can join us for our pre-neg starting at 5:30 for light hors d'oeuvres. Put some of those millions of minutes to use worshipping a Shabbat filled with Broadway references you don’t want to miss. Women’s Circle: Friday, October 20, at Noon Rabbi Laurie engages your intellect and inspires conversation on a variety of Jewish topics. All are welcome. Bring a friend. RSVP on Micah’s event page.
Grief Group with Rabbi Laurie: Thursday, October 26, at 12 PM
"The universe is made of stories, not of atoms."
-Muriel Rukeyser, The Speed of Darkness
We all have stories of loss. Maybe a loved one died, a marriage ended, a relationship went sideways, or a job slipped through our fingertips. Loss is often accompanied by grief, and grief is best explored and moved through by the sharing of stories in community. Rabbi Laurie will convene a grief circle monthly beginning in August. All are welcome to attend. This offering is in-person only.
Anti-Israel Expressions & Anti-Semetic behaviors: Thursday, October 26, at 6:00 PM So, why now? What are the driving features in connection with what we are experiencing? What ideas, individuals and institutions are shaping attacks on Israel, Jews and Judaism? This Adult education opportunity is presented by Rabbis Laurie Rice and Shana Mackler, featuring guest Steven Windmueller.
Sherith Israel
Sundays, October 15th & 29th
Tefillah Workshop with Cantor Dov
9:30am - 11:00am (Library)
Dive into a deeper understanding of our prayers, through the lens of songwriting.
Daveners of all levels are welcome.
Coffee and refreshments will be served.
Torah will be shared.
October 5
Simchat Beit Hashoava
Featuring the Music of Dveikus
6:30 pm
Saturday Night, October 7
Simchat Torah Celebration and Festive Dinner
6:30 pm.
October 20
Nashville Pre-JAM Fest Shabbaton
Friday Night Dinner and Program
October 28
Eat, Learn, Sing
Community Seudah Shlishit, Learning, and Musical Havdallah
With Cantor Dov, Moreh Nechemya, and Rabbi Saul
Come learn with us in our Communal music city Bass Midrash. On Wednesdays at Sherith Israel, between 8:00pm-9:30pm. Drinks and Refreshments will be provided. For any question please don't hesitate to contact Nechemya Rosenfeld nechemya@akivanashville.net
The Temple
October 2023
Pirkei Avot: Jewish Wisdom for Today's World Every Friday from 5:00-5:40 PM
Get ready for Shabbat with a little text study! Each week we will study a piece of wisdom from Pirkei Avot, The Ethics of our Ancestors, an ancient Jewish text still relevant in our own times. Available in person at The Temple and via zoom. Zoom Room: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81973096738
Shabbat Schedule for October
Our Shabbat Services will be held in person at The Temple. You can also watch via zoom from thetemplehub.org.
Friday, October 6th ~ 6:00 PM- Simchat Torah Service and Festive Oneg
Friday, October 13th~ 6:00 PM
Friday, October 20th~ 6:00 PM-Family Service and Birthday Blessings
Friday, October 27th ~ 6:00 PM – Celebrate Mitzie Russell’s service to The Temple and Blue Jean Shabbat
Golden Lunch Bunch
Will meet at Temple from 11:30-1:00pm on
October 3rd: Bill Sleeter
October 17th: Bryan Cumming RSVP to Jamie Maresca at 615-354-1686 or via email at helpinghands@jfsnashville.org
Chevrah Torah Study
9:30AM on Saturdays
Join us for our weekly Torah study on the portion of the week, led by the clergy.
You can join us in person at The Temple or via zoom from thetemplehub.org
Women's Torah Study October 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th
10:30 AM
Ongoing weekly women's Torah study led by Patty Marks.
Available in person at The Temple and via zoom through thetemplehub.org
Lunch with the Rabbi October 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th Lunch at 11:30AM
Program12:00-1:00 PM
$15 per person for lunch
Engage with Rabbi Danziger and guests in a discussion of current and important issues from a Jewish perspective.
RSVP on thetemplehub.org or by calling the Temple at 615-352-7620
Available in person and via zoom.
Zoom Room: thetemplehub.org
Monday Mah Jongg with Canasta
Join Us for MAH JONGG Mondays at The Temple!
October 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th
1:00pm
Drop in for Mah Jongg. We’ll have coffee and water. Bring your friends, a card, and a set and have some fun. Mah Jongg cards and sets are available for purchase in The Temple Gift Shop.
Writers of the Lost Ark
First Wednesday of the Month
October 4th
7:00-8:00 PM
Are you looking for a creative outlet? Writers of the Lost Ark, our Temple writer’s group, meets the first Wednesday of each month. This is a safe, supportive, and no pressure environment to share your creative ideas whether they be stories, songs, poems, or praise. The group is open to all regardless of how little or how long you’ve been writing. Those curious to find their creative side are welcome as well.
For more information, please contact ninapacent@bellsouth.net.
Join the Temple and Congregation Micah for a Zoom Adult Ed with Steven Windmueller, Ph.D. Interim Director of the Zelikow School of Jewish Nonprofit Management of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion
Tuesday, October 3 - Noon - 1:15 PM
21st Century American Judaism: What are the key factors contributing to and influencing a changing Jewish landscape in this country? What will it mean for our institutions, for political engagement, philanthropy and more? How does current tech/AI innovations affect todays Judaism, if at all?
Thursday, October 26 - 6:00 PM
Anti-Israel Expressions and anti-Semitic Behaviors
For zoom access, please go to thetemplehub.org.
NowGen Nashville and Next Dor Young Professionals Network and Nosh
October 19th from 6:00-8:00pm at The Temple RSVP to Sheri@templenashville.org
Ages 21+
It’s a Knitzvah Crafternoon! Sunday, October 1st 1:30 pm
The Temple’s W.E.L.L (Women Engaged in Living & Learning) is joining with the Crafternoon crew and invites all knitters, crocheters, and anyone who just wants to learn how to knit a simple scarf to provide for the homeless women who are a part of the Room in the Inn during the cold winter. Or bring a craft project of your own. We will be in the Sukkah at The Temple to enjoy the company of women engaged in living & learning. Refreshments will be served! Please RSVP to Rabbi Mackler at rabbisgmackler@templenashville.org. For more information, please go to thetemplehub.org or templenashville.org
Celebrate with us in the Sukkah
· Intro to Judaism and Conversion Conversations Opening Gathering – Sunday, October 1st
· Preschool Parent Committee-Monday, October 2nd
· LGBTQ+ Dinner -Tuesday, October 3rd
· Hebrew School Dinner -Wednesday, October 4th
For more Information, see thetemplehub.org
Sukkot Yizkor Service- October 6th at 5:00pm
Intro to Judaism-Conversion Conversations Led by Rabbi Shana Mackler
Opening Gathering, Sunday, October 1 ~ 4:00 PM
Online classes begin Tuesday October 10 @ 7:00 PM
Join us for in-depth look at Jewish history, holidays, traditions, customs, and beliefs. Rabbi & Senior Scholar Shana Mackler leads these thought-provoking conversations about Judaism. There is no expectation of conversion upon completion of this class and syllabus, though many choose to do so. This is a great way to learn together and take the next steps towards living and leading a more meaningful Jewish life.
Register at Thetemplehub.org/learning
Temple’s W.E.L.L Group (Women Engaged in Living and Learning) is co-sponsoring the Monday Matinee film Sabotage of the Nashville Jewish Film Festival on October 23rd at the the GJCC. Lunch is available starting at 11 and the film will be screened at noon. Go to https://www.nashvillejff.net/ for more information.
Family Pet Blessing at The Temple
Sunday, October 1st from 11:30-12:30
on the Patio (Rain or Shine)
All of God’s creatures are welcome!
Schedule:
11:30AM-12:00PM-Social Time and meet and greet with pets and pet parents
12:00PM- Blessing of the Pets by he clergy
12:15PM- Pet Contest
All pets must be leashed or crated at all times.
Tot Shabbat
Saturday, October 21st at 10:00AM
For families with children up to age 5
Tot Shabbat offers families the chance to celebrate Shabbat with their young children in a creative way!
Hello My Name Is….The Temple’s Adult Education Series
Learn Jewish History, Innovation, Culture, and Values through Famous Jews with Familiar Names.
Hello My Name is Ruth: 10/4, 10/11, 10/25 at 6:00pm at The Temple
Our clergy will be leading these sessions. For more information, go to thetemplehub.org.
Hike & Havdallah at Percy Warner
Presented by The Temple’s Worship and Music Committee
Saturday, October 28th
Where and When for the Hike? Meet at the top of the steps at the end of Belle Meade Boulevard at 3:45 PM with the hike of the 2.5 mile white trail to begin at 4:00 PM. If you are not hiking, please meet us for Havdalah at the stone gate entrance to the park at 5:30 PM.
Who? All ages! Bring friends and family.
For more information or questions, please contact Anne Davenport at adavlaw@comcast.net
Shabbat Service and Oneg to honor Mitzie Russell’s service to The Temple
Friday, October 27th at 6:00pm
We are so pleased to honor Mitzie Russell at Friday night services on Oct. 27th. From her first day at Temple in 1996 until the present, Mitzie has worked tirelessly to make our congregation the best it can be. She has served in almost every administrative position and presently works part-time on special projects and the Cemetery. Please come Friday, October 27 as we show our gratitude for all she has done for our Temple family.
West End Synagogue - October 2023 For links to the following online services or programs, please email office@westendsyn.org
Bar Mitzvah of Yosef Prebus, Saturday Morning, October 28.
Music and Me
Inviting all parents of infants and/or toddlers for an afternoon of music and movement on Sunday, October 1st from 10:30-11:30 a.m. RSVP by emailing spaz@westendsyn.org or harriet.workman@gmail.com.
Beit Miriam Sukkot Program
Sunday, October 1st. Sukkot Programming from 10:00-11:30 a.m. with lunch at 11:30 a.m. This will be in lieu of regular school.
Women's Torah Group (on Zoom)
Join us on October 4th, at 11:00 a.m. Rabbi Joshua leads our study of the book of Deuteronomy.
Sisterhood Wednesday Wind Down, October 4th, 11th and 25th - Snacks and games in the Internet Cafe from 4:30 - 5:45 p.m. No RSVP needed.
Beit Miriam School and “Pizza in the Hut”
Regular Midweek Hebrew Wednesday, October 4 from 4:15-5:30 p.m. followed by “Pizza in the Hut” from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Dinner open to Beit Miriam Families and Families with Young Children. RSVP to spaz@westendsyn.org. RSVPs are required to know how many people to plan for! There is no charge for dinner.
Craft Beer Tasting led by Trent Rosenbloom
Tuesday, October 4th at 7:30 p.m. Sample a curated assortment of barrel aged craft beers from Trent's private collection. RSVPs are requested so we have the right amount of beer. Contact the WES office if you have any questions. RSVP Here: https://westendsyn.shulcloud.com/event/craft-beer-tasting.html
Thursday, October 5th – WES Sisterhood "Radical Welcoming: Our Ancestors, the Stranger, Ourselves". Soup and salad dinner followed by an exploration of the concept of "Hachnasat Orchim" – “Welcoming Visitors”. 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. in the Synagogue Sukkah. Free for paid Sisterhood members, $20 for non-members. RSVP required https://forms.gle/UDPrGToPLrQJHFoi6.
Friday, October 6 Families With Young Children Join us for “It’s Shabbat” 5:30-6:30 pm in the Synagogue Sukkah
Sundaes in the Synagogue & Families with Young Children Potluck Seudah Shleesheet & Simchat Torah Service
Saturday evening, October 7th, please join us for Simchat Torah. Families with Young Children are invited for a Potluck (dairy or pareve) Seudah Shleesheet beginning at 6:00 p.m. followed by a family service. The regular service begins at 7:00 pm. Everyone is invited for “Sundaes in the Synagogue” before Simchat Torah.
Learn and Lunch with Rabbi Saul Strosberg
Learn and Lunch is back! Wednesday, October 11th, at 11:00 a.m. Reservations required, catered lunch ($3) following the presentation.
Men’s Torah Group (in person)
Join us on October 12th, at noon for our Torah class for men. We are currently reading Elisha’s stories from the First Book of Kings and will be eating pizza.
Sunday, October 15th – Sisterhood Bloody Mary Bar and Mexican-Themed Brunch. 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. in the Social Hall. Suggested donation $5 per person. RSVP required https://forms.gle/ujj2vPhLKrVHqtDq9
Wednesday, October 18th - "Secrets of the Oy-Oy Sisterhood": Open board meeting of the Sisterhood Board, highlighting educational, ritual, and other resources of our parent organization. Snacks available for those attending in person. Registration needed to participate via Zoom https://forms.gle/yEKXR9bJ1wUsKmkq6. For more information on Sisterhood or Sisterhood events, see our website https://www.musiccitysisterhood.com/home or email sisterhoodwestendsynagogue@gmail.com
Sunday, October 22nd – Sisterhood Walk the Greenway. Co-hosted by Sisterhood and Beit Miriam Parent Committee. Meet in West End's back parking lot at 9:15 a.m. Water, bananas and power bars provided. No RSVP needed.
Learn and Lunch with Cathy Lewis
Learn and Lunch is back! Wednesday, October 25, at 11:00 a.m. Reservations are required for the catered lunch. Lunch is ($3/person) following the presentation.
Friday night, October 27th: Families with Young Children
Join us for “It’s Shabbat” from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Celebrate Shabbos together with grape juice, challah and nosh!
Birthday Shabbat, Saturday morning, October 28
Join us on Shabbat morning, October 28th, for a special celebration of our October birthdays. We will be celebrating the Bar Mitzvah of Yosef Prebus. The main service begins at 9:30 a.m. and a kiddush sponsored by the Prebus family will follow. Everyone is welcome.
Sunday, October 29th - Sisterhood "Handmade" Judaic crafts club.
Begins at 9:30 a.m. Bring any project you're working on. Adult coloring pictures and supplies will also be provided. Bagel breakfast. Suggested donation $5 per person. No RSVP needed.
Sisterhood Challah Sales made by Melissa Sostrin Sign up on the Google form linked below or text Jessica Kullock at 615-881-4455 by WEDNESDAY AT 9:00 p.m. each week to pre-order for pickup Friday during synagogue office hours. Flavors: Plain, chocolate, cinnamon, cinnamon raisin, zaatar, poppy seeds, sesame, bag of 6 challah rolls. Plain is $8/each, all challah with seeds toppings are $8.50, and the rest are $9/each. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScXxBd4BPSrddtYu_iOb5A5VRpIkbq8TulMqJPEhUFWeco57w/viewform
Ongoing Programs:
Talmud on Tuesdays
Rabbi Joshua leads a lively Talmudic discussion at 7:30 a.m. in person and on Zoom every Tuesday, immediately after morning minyan. Come and join us!
Thursday Torah study
With Nechemya Rosenfeld every Thursday morning at 7:30 a.m. following morning minyan at 7:00 a.m.
Shacharit (in person)
Our minyanaires are always looking for more people to strengthen the only egalitarian minyan in town! Sunday services will be at 9:00 a.m. and Monday-Friday will be at 7:00 a.m. Monday and Thursday minyans to be followed by breakfast.
Mincha (on Zoom)
Join us for daily Mincha at 6:00 p.m., Sunday-Friday.
Kabbalat Shabbat
You are invited to join us every Friday for Kabbalat Shabbat in person or by Zoom at 6:00 p.m. As part of our Friday night services, we are currently studying Jewish ethics through an in-depth reading of Pirkei Avot.
Morning Shabbat services.
You are invited to join us every Saturday morning in person or by Zoom at 9:30 a.m. Great davening, insightful learning of the Torah portion and a yummy (and nutritious!) kiddush lunch following services!