June 11-12, 2021 Parashat Korach
2 Tammuz 5781
Korach rebels against Moses, insisting that the entire Israelite community is automatically holy. Korach is punished for this view, swallowed by an enormous earthquake. To demonstrate the holiness of the Levites, Moses places a staff from each tribe inside the ark. Aaron’s staff sprouts, a sign that it was chosen by the Eternal One. Sometimes even we are like that staff: we feel hopeful after challenging times. But why does Aaron’s staff sprout almonds? Rabbi Israel Salanter once said: “We live by miracles every day, but miracles don’t happen every day.” Almonds are bitter and sweet, just like life. To hope and to flourish again after difficult times – this is truly a miracle!
Please join in this week’s Shabbat celebrations on Channel 1960 or in the Synagogue
(Limited seating in the Synagogue; masks required at all times)
Friday at 4:15 PM: Kabbalat Shabbat & Ma’ariv (Evening Service); Blessings in Dining Room at 5:15
Saturday at 10:00 AM: Shabbat Shacharit (Morning Service); Blessings in Dining Room at 12:15
Blessings in the Dining Room – Out of respect for the occasion, food service will pause briefly while we make Kiddush and Motzi on Shabbat, Holy Days, and other holidays. If you would prefer uninterrupted food service, you are welcome to start your meal before blessings begin or after they are complete. If you are at the table during the blessings, you are encouraged to join in the blessings from your seat at the table. When Rabbi says “Savri” – respond with “L’chaim!”
Torah Talk – Shabbat afternoon at 1:30 PM in the Music Room (limited seating; masks required)
Candle Lighting in the Synagogue – If you would like to have the honor of lighting candles in the Synagogue,
please contact Gitta
Mi Sheberach (prayer for healing) – If you would like me to mention your name or a loved one’s name for healing blessings, or if you’d like a name removed from our list, please let me know.
Collecting Ritual Books – Please return ritual books to me, to the Synagogue, or to the Front Desk.
Candle lighting time for the city of Mission Viejo: Friday evening at 7:43 PM
Shabbat ends Saturday evening at 8:45 PM
Shabbat Shalom! Rabbi Sherman