Please check the Calendar Page for school and ritual information and events.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Shabbat Services Online, Fridays at 7:30 p.m.
Please check the calendar for upcoming Shabbat Services.
We are going back to our twice a month services in-person, as well as having the services stream on ZOOM.
If you will be using ZOOM, please join us on-line every Friday at 7:15 p.m. to take advantage of the time leading up to our 7:30 service by engaging in “Pre-Neg Shabbat” social time with each other over Zoom. Participants will have their microphone muted during most parts of the service except for Mi Shebeirach and Kaddish Yatom, when there will be opportunity for everyone to add individual names.
PAST EVENTS:
Student Cantor Concert
Click here to view Student Cantor Shayna Burack and her fellow students Sarina – Elbogen-Siegel, Sierra Fox, Beth Reinstein and accompanist Kevin Story.
Philadelphia Mural Tour
Click here to view photos of our walking tour of some of the 4,500 murals that are in Philadelphia,
2022 Sunday School Seder
Click here to view photos of 2022 Sunday School Seder.
Edythe Herson Movie
The temple held a world premiere screening of Cantor Ted Labow’s film about the life of Edythe Herson. We hope to show the film again around June to celebrate Edythe’s birthday. See Flyer
Grow-a-Row – Sunday, October 18, 2020 at 12:30 p.m.
This temple-wide event will be apple gleaning at Longmeadow Farm in Blairstown. If interested e-mail jcnwjprez@gmail.com.
Purim Celebration – March 6, 2020
The celebration began with pizza dinner. Students singing Purim songs and a very short service preceeding the annual Purim Spiel. This year’s performance featured the music of Queen. The spiel was a performance unlike any other.
Flyer
Interfaith Martin Luther King Service with Washington AME Church – January 17, 2020
A joint prayer service honoring Dr. King was held with Washington’s Mount Pisgah AME Church. Reverend Diana Ortiz-Bracy delivered the sermon.
Interfaith Martin Luther King Service Service at Washington AME Church – January 19, 2020
A joint prayer service honoring Dr. King was held at Washington’s Mount Pisgah AME Church. Rabbi Dubin delivered the sermon.
Menorah Lighting in Long Valley – December 22, 2019
All were invited to join lighting of the Menorah on the porch of Chesapeake Tavern. Temple music master Deb Apsel provided music as we celebrated the beginning of Hanukkah.
Mental Health Film and Panel Discussion – December 8, 2019
The piercing film, That Way Madness Lies, was screened. After a short intermission a panel including film maker Sandra Luckow, a representative from Jewish Family Services and members of the clergy, discussed the film and the state of mental health care and issues.
Program Flyer
Kristallnacht Commemoration – November 8, 2019
Our annual service commemorating the “Night of Broken Glass” featured Dr. Michael R. Hayse, the Wally and Lutz Hammerschlag Associate Professor of Holocaust Studies at Stockton University. While he had no personal ties to the Holocaust, in researching his family ancestry he found that he did have a Jewish relative who perished during that time. His research into his own family’s history and what he found made for a very interesting and engaging presentation.
Daffodil Project Planting Ceremony – November 3, 2019
The Daffodil Project is to plant 1.5 million daffodils (over 530,000 daffodils so far!) around the world in memory of the 1.5 million children who perished in the Holocaust and in support for children suffering in humanitarian crises in the world today. Students and adults added to the 500 daffodils planted last October.
Sisterhood Sponsored Family Mitzvah Day: America’s Grow-a-Row – September 22, 2019
The Sisterhood sponsored another Mitzvah Day at the Grow-A-Row Farm in Pittstown.
Person Of the Year Picnic – June 23, 2019
A celebratory picnic honored Jeff Berkowitz for the years he has lovingly taken care of our building and grounds.
Reel Theology: A Series of Five Films -January-May, 2019
Over the course of five months we shared five Saturday nights of film, food, and discussion – the fifth and final film was A Serious Man. Dinner was served prior to the screenings, and structured discussions followed over dessert. See the flyer for all films.
Reel Theology Flyer
Yom HaShoah Memorial Service – May 3, 2019
Esther Bakonyi presented her recollecions in her talk, A Five-Year-Old Encounters History at our annual commemoration. There was also a baby naming for President Howie and Iris Hirsch’s grand daughter Abigail Thurber during the Torah service.
Jewelry/Judaica/Accessory Swap Night, April 13, 2019
This Sisterhood fundraising event was a fun opportunity to pick up or trade for a “new” piece of jewelry.
Bark Mitzvah Shabbat Service – April 12, 2019
The Rabbi invited all beloved well-behaved pets to have a “Bark Mitzvah”!!! Traditional Shabbat services followed.
Purim Celebration – March 24, 2019
The celebration began with the rabbi interacting with the students with a special Megillah Reading followed by the Costume Parade. A Hard Day’s Shpiel was presented by talented members of the JCNWJ, a performance unlike any other. Watch the performance by checking the link at the bottom of the page!
Interfaith Service at Washington AME Church – February 17, 2019
A joint prayer service was held at Washington’s Mount Pisgah AME (African Methodist Episcopal) Church. Rabbi Dubin delivered a well-received “Over the Rainbow” sermon.
Interfaith Martin Luther King Service with Washington AME Church – January 18, 2019
A joint prayer service was held with Washington’s Mount Pisgah AME (African Methodist Episcopal) Church. Reverend Daniela Small-Baily delivered a rousing sermon. Student participation contributed to the service.
Kristallnacht Commemoration – November 2, 2018
Our annual service commemorating the “Night of Broken Glass” featured guest speaker Ann Millin, retired Historian and Special Assistant to Director of Education at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
Daffodil Project Planting Ceremony – October 28, 2018
The Daffodil Project is to plant 1.5 million daffodils (over 470,000 daffodils so far!) around the world in memory of the 1.5 million children who perished in the Holocaust and in support for children suffering in humanitarian crises in the world today. Students and adults planted 500 daffodils at the temple.
Blood Drive – October 28, 2018
This drive was in honor of Gil Braunstein. Donating one unit of blood can save up to three lives – tripling your mitzvah! The Miller Keystone Blood Center collected this life saving gift.
Family Mitzvah Day: America’s Grow-a-Row – September 30, 2018
The Sisterhood and our religious school invited the entire congregation to attend Mitzvah Day at a Grow-A-Row Farm in Pittstown. More than 20 temple members participated!
Temple Picnic – August 12, 2018
Temple families again enjoyed the annual picnic. Swimming, fishing, lawn games and potluck food made this another wonderful afternoon.
Outdoor Shabbat Service/Pot Luck Dinner – July 20, 2018
A shortened, early service was held outside and was followed by a pot luck supper.
Bark Mitzvah Shabbat Service – April 20, 2018
The Rabbi invited all beloved well-behaved pets to have a “Bark Mitzvah”!!! Traditional Shabbat services followed.
Pot Luck Supper – March 16, 2018
A time to get together as a community, share dinner and worship. A group meal was created using PerfectPotluck.com! Services followed at 7:30 p.m.
Blood Drive – March 11, 2018
Donating one unit of blood can save up to three lives – tripling your mitzvah! The Miller Keystone Blood Center visited to collect this life saving gift.
Purim Shpiel: A Beach Boychik Purim – March 4, 2018
Another hilarious and unique Purim Shpiel presented by talented members of the JCNWJ. Preceded by the Megillah Reading and Costume Parade.
Interfaith Martin Luther King Celebration with Washington AME Church – January 14 and January 19, 2018
As we did last year, joint prayer services were held with Washington’s Mount Pisgah AME (African Methodist Episcopal) Church. Rabbi Dubin gave the sermon at the church on Sunday, and Reverend Terrilisa Bauknight gave the sermon at our service on Friday.
Guest Speaker: How to Make Sleeping Maps For the Homeless Out Of Plastic Shopping Bags – November 19, 2017
The presentation followed the regular meeting of the Sisterhood.
An Evening with Holocaust Survivor Esther Bakonyi – October 24, 2017
The WCCC WWII & Holocaust Research Center at Warren County Community College invited the community to an evening with temple member and Holocaust survivor, Esther Bakonyi. A Q&A session followed Mrs. Bakonyi’s presentation.
Family Mitzvah Day: America’s Grow-a-Row – October 15, 2017
On this Sisterhood-sponsored outing students and members harvested fruits and vegetables which otherwise would go to waste from a local farm. The food will go to food banks, food pantries and soup kitchens in the JCNWJ area.
Temple Picnic – August 6, 2017
Temple families enjoyed the annual picnic. Swimming, fishing, lawn games and potluck food (along with a special visit from Cold Stone Creamery) made this another wonderful afternoon.
Shabbaton – May 20, 2017
Led by Cantor Ted Labow, the day began with Shabbat morning service and Torah study. After lunch Cantor Labow taught some of his new Jewish music and also some songs from an Americana/Protest album that he is working on with the working title “What? Me Protest?” After a break was Wine and Cheese with a singalong. This was followed by short excerpts from a film that the Cantor is working on with the working title “Edythe” about Edythe Herson’s life and work to promote social justice. The day concluded with Havdalah.
Bark/Meow Mitzvah – May 19, 2017
The Rabbi invited beloved well-behaved pets to have a “Bark Mitzvah”!!! Shabbat services followed.
Shabbaton – April 22, 2017
Led by Cantor Ted Labow, the day began with Shabbat morning service and Torah study. After lunch (1:15 p.m.) there was learning about “The Whole Megillah––What We Can Learn from the Five Scrolls“. After a mid-day break, wine and cheese was enjoyed, followed by Broadway singalong: Music of the Jewish Broadway Composers.
Israel Trip Planning Meeting, Sunday, April 23, 2017
Come provide input in planning our temple’s trip to the Holy Land.
Fiddler on the Roof at Warren Hills HS – April 1, 2017
Temple members supported the Warren Hills Drama Club and enjoyed a great musical.
Purim Shpiel: A Motown Purim – March 12, 2017
Another hilarious and unique Purim Shpiel was presented by talented members of the JCNWJ. See it again or see what you missed on YouTube
Shabbaton, Saturday, February 25, 2017
Led by Cantor Ted Labow, the day included: Shabbat Morning Musical Service and Informal Torah Study, Shabbat Study: An overview of Hebrew Poetry, Wine & Cheese, Songs and Poems of Leonard Cohen and a Havdalah service. Members could come toeverything, or pick and choose what to enjoy.
Interfaith Services with Washington AME Church – January 13 and January 15, 2017
We again joined in worship with the congregation of the Mount Pisgah AME (African Methodist Episcopal) Church in Washington. Reverend Terrilisa Durham Bauknight gave the sermon Friday night at our temple, and Rabbi Dubin gave the sermon Sunday morning at the church. This was our Dr. Martin Luther King Shabbat service. Our services have much in common and it was a wonderful experience for all at both.
Shabbaton, Saturday November 5, 2016
A Shabbat service followed by Torah study, discussion: “Could it happen here?”, a Folk Singalong: Songs of the Sixties and Seventies with Cantor Labow, and Havdalah.
Kristallnacht Commemoration – November 4, 2016
Our annual service commemorating the “Night of Broken Glass.”
Family Mitzvah Day: America’s Grow-a-Row, September 11, 2016 – On this Sisterhood-sponsored outing students and members gleaned apples at Longmeadow Farm in Hope for food banks, food pantries and soup kitchens in the JCNWJ area!
Sisterhood Tea Party – May 7, 2016
The Sisterhood ladies had a beautiful tea party at the home of Marci Braunstein. It was very well attended, and everyone had a lovely time!
Yom HaShoah Speaker & Commemoration – April 29, 2016
The story of Leon Wolfsthal was shared by his son Bill. Liberated on a train headed for the Theresienstadt death camp from Bergen Belsen in April, 1945, his is the story of one who survived the horrors of the Holocaust. We concluded with a brief commemoration for the six million lost.
Flyer
Chrysalis Body Movement – April 17, 2016
The Sisterhood sponsored a gentle hour-long yoga-style relaxation class for the women of the JCNWJ was also open to non-Sisterhood temple members.
Purim Celebration: Megillah Reading and Shpiel – March 20, 2016
The JCNWJ celebrated Purim with another distinctive JCNWJ Purim Shpiel: Megillah Around the Clock.
Shabbat Across America – March 4, 2016
This is a great time to invite friends and family not otherwise connected to a synagogue or who want to know more about the Jewish Center. A festive meal was followed by Shabbat services.
Interfaith Service at Washington AME Church – February 7, 2016
We joined in worship with the congregation of the Mount Pisgah AME (African Methodist Episcopal) Church in Washington, helping to meet our goal of becoming more involved in our community outside of the temple. Our services have much in common and it was a wonderful experience for all.
Read Hebrew America: Prayers – January 17, 2016
Originally intended for the Read Hebrew America class participants but open to all who read Hebrew, this special sessions focused on prayers.
Kristallnacht Commemoration – November 6, 2015
The “Night of Broken Glass” was remembered with guest speaker, Peppy Margolis, Director of Cultural Outreach at Raritan Valley Community College. The daughter of Holocaust survivors, she was born in a Displaced Persons camp in Germany and emigrated to the United States when she was four years old. She has spent her entire life asking why genocide continues, particularly how the Holocaust came to be, and developing programs and study guides to foster dialogue that she believes is the only hope for peace for future generations. Peppy’s talks are always a very moving experience.Blood Drive – October 18, 2015 – Donating one unit of blood can save up to three lives – tripling your mitzvah!
Family Mitzvah Day: America’s Grow-a-Row, September 20, 2015 – On this Sisterhood-sponsored outing students and members harvested apples at Peaceful Valley Orchards for food banks, food pantries and soup kitchens in the JCNWJ area! A brunch preceded going to the farm.
Potluck Shabbat Dinner/Kabbalat Shabbat Service, August 28, 2015
Pot-luck supper in the Simcha Room with Rabbi Dubin and Cantor Labow was followed by a Kabbalat Shabbat service led by Rabbi Dubin and Cantor Labow.
Adult Education Class, Saturday, August 29, 2015
Cantor Labow led a class on the music of the High Holy Days. In his words: “The music of the High Holy Days has changed over the years, but the spirit of the past still lives in the recordings of the Cantors of the Golden Age. Participants heard their traditional interpretations and learn some new folk melodies that we will use over the coming High Holy Days.”
A Weekend of Events With Our New Cantor – July 17-19, 2015
A pot-luck supper in the Simcha Room on Friday was followed by a Kabbalat Shabbat service led by Cantor Labow. Saturday morning Cantor Labow led a class called “The Drama of the Megillot”. Said Cantor Labow: “So you’ve heard the ‘ganza magilla’? There are actually five megillot, each with special melodies for different times of the year, and each with a specific dramatic structure.” On Sunday, members enjoyed an informal brunch with Cantor Labow with a sing-along after the meal.
Torah Writing – June 14, 2015 – Sofer Jay Greenspan visited our temple to enable this unique ceremony to fulfil mitzvah number 613. Temple members in good standing (men, women and children) wrote part of a letter in our new Torah. Read Sharon Herson’s account of this beautiful and moving experience.
Temple Picnic – June 14, 2015 – Temple families enjoyed the annual picnic BBQ and a special visit from Cold Stone Creamery. Musical entertainment was provided by Ezra Tarlowe.
Girls’ Night Out – May 28, 2015
All lady members were invited to Andrea’s Dining Room in Long Valley to kibbitz, kvel, whine and dine with our Membership Committee. Complimentary unlimited brick-oven bar pies & drink specials were available.
Mah Jongg – May 5, 2015 – Beginners and experienced players joined like-minded Mah Jongg players in the Simcha Room for the first of a continuing series of fun evenings with the tiles.
Yom HaShoah Speaker & Commemoration – April 19, 2015
Meg Wiviott, author of Benno and the Night of Broken Glass and Paper Hearts (coming October 13, 2015), spoke about her Holocaust-themed writing and the challenges of introducing children to this difficult topic. Our own Esther Bakonyi then reflected on her vision of teaching the next generation of this dark part of our modern history. We concluded with a brief commemoration for the six million lost.
Shabbat Across America – March 13, 2015
A “Pitch Perfect” non-dairy pot luck Shabbat dinner like Bubbe used to make was enjoyed by 70 members and friends. The evening featured the Muhlenberg Chaimonics (Muhlenberg Colleges’s Jewish a capella group).
Purim Megillah Reading Spiel, and Celebration – March 8, 2015
The annual retelling of the story of Purim – the JCNWJ Purim Spiel is unlike any other and not to be missed!
Teen Top Chef Event – March 7, 2015
Pizza making, games, hot cocoa tasting, and Havdallah made for fun,delicious homemade food and hanging out with friends.
Gentlemen’s Night Out – January 18, 2015
This get-together for the “gents” of the JCNWJ was held at the Draught House Bar & Grill on Rt. 31 in Washington. Members enjoyed the Colts vs. Patriots game and tail end of the Green Bay/Seattle game. Food and drink specials were available.
Girls’ Night Out – January 15, 2015
All lady members were invited to Andrea’s Dining Room in Long Valley to kibbitz, kvel, whine and dine with our Membership Committee. Complimentary unlimited brick-oven bar pies & drink specials were available.
Teen Night Out – November 15, 2014 – All 8th to 12th graders were invited to come to the Temple for snacks, hanging out and a movie.
Kristallnacht Commemoration – November 7, 2014
Mr. Claude Hagelberg reflected on his childhood in Constance, Switzerland, giving us insight on his experience of living right over the border from Germany in safety while Jews on the other side suffered at the hands of the Nazis. He shared vignettes showing how anti-Semitism was apparent to him as a child and yet how relatively comfortably life was for Swiss German Jews. Mr. Hagelberg shared the extraordinary story of being asked to greet a train full of concentration camp survivors at the end of the Holocaust. This presentation gave us a unique view of the Shoah, the Holocaust, from the other side of the border.
Girls’ Night Out – October 30, 2014
All lady members were invited to Andrea’s Dining Room in Long Valley to kibbitz, kvel, whine and dine with our Membership Committee at this first time event. Complimentary brick oven pizza bar pies were served with drink specials, including 1/2 price cocktails and wine.
Religious School Shabbat Dinner – October 17, 2014
Before our joyful Simchat Torah/Shabbat service, students and family members gathered as a religious school community for dinner in our Sukkah. Pizza, salad, and drinks were provided.
Family Mitzvah Day: America’s Grow-a-Row – September 14, 2014
On this Sisterhood-sponsored outing students and members harvested 300 lbs. of tomatoes for food banks, food pantries and soup kitchens in the JCNWJ area!
Shabbat Service/Kitchen Dedication – September 12, 2014
At the Oneg hosted by Sisterhood our new kitchen was sanctified and all the shower gifts were acknowledged and used or displayed.
Summer Shabbat Service at Merrill Creek Reservoir – August 9, 2014
Our first ever Shabbat “hike” at Merrill Creek Reservoir. We experienced the beauty of this lovely nature preserve as we walked, prayed, and sang together following a path around the preserve.
Summer Shabbat Service – July 18, 2014 – Our first outdoor/indoor Shabbat service was held on the Herson-Fleckles property.
Goals and Objectives Meeting – May 10, 2014
At the Goals and Objectives meeting we explored membership retention and membership outreach, communication with our congregants, our town and neighboring towns, and communication through social media. We also assessed our education curriculum provided to both adults and youth and our development of future leaders for the JCNWJ.
Yom HaShoah Speaker & Commemoration – April 27, 2014
Every Holocaust survivor has a unique story. However, our guest speaker Teddy Halpern has had a particularly exceptional life story as he survived the Shoah as both a Jew and disabled citizen. Mr. Halpern’s narrative revealed the wrenching decisions families had to make during these turbulent times, as well as the deep strength one person can find within.
View Video of Teddy Halpern’s Talk
Talent Show – April 26, 2014
Another memorable night of song, dance and surprises. The annual Talent Show is not to be missed – members of all ages share their talents including singing, dancing, joking, playing musical instruments, poetry reading, monologues – every year is different and every year is wonderful!
See photos from the 2014 show!
Sisterhood Luncheon – April 6, 2014
Brenda Seals of the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Crisis Center spoke on the Objectification Of Women In the Media.
Purim Spiel, Megillah Reading and Purim Carnival – March 16, 2014
The annual retelling of the story of Purim – the JCNWJ Purim Spiel is unlike any other and not to be missed! Purim Carnival followed.
Shabbat Across America – March 7, 2014
A time to get together as a community, share dinner and worship as the JCNWJ celebrated Shabbat Across America. A group meal was created using PerfectPotluck.com.
Teen Social Event: Bowling! – January 18, 2014
All teens in 7th grade through 12th grade were invited to join together for an afternoon of bowling at Oakwood Lanes in Washington. Bowling was paid for by the temple.
Voices Against Brain Cancer Walk/Run – November 17, 2013
The Friends of Mike Team with congregation members and students gathered in Central Park for the Voices Against Brain Cancer Walk/Run. For more information visit Friends of Mike Team page.
Kristallnacht Commemoration – November 8, 2013
This Kristallnacht service commemorated the 75th anniversary of Kristallnacht. Holocaust survivor Margit Feldman, a member of the NJ Commission on Holocaust Education for 22 years, shared her story with the congregation. She published her memoirs, Margit: A Teen-Ager’s Journey Through the Holocaust and Beyond in 2002. Margit is a staunch supporter of Raritan Valley Community College Institute for Holocaust and Genocide Studies, and helps to create an annual spring program which three-thousand students attend each year to learn about the Holocaust and genocide.
Family Mitzvah Day: America’s Grow-a-Row – October 13, 2013 – The JCNWJ school students and members picked fruits and vegetables for delivery to local food banks and pantries for a day of Mitzvah! Sisterhood provided lunch at the Temple before everyone headed to the farm.
Information Flyer (pdf, 240kb)
Meet the Rabbi Open House – July 14 and August 18, 2013
Members were invited to the home of Rita and Jerry Berkowitz in July and the home of Sharon & Edythe Herson and Daniel Fleckles for members to meet and get to know Rabbi Zamore. Lite fare of cheese, crackers, vegetables, fruit and of course desserts were provided.
Shabbat Celebration to Honor of Rabbi Lewis – June 28, 2013
A special service and potluck BBQ honored departing Rabbi Ellen J. Lewis for her 19 years of service.
Rummage Sale – April 14, 2013
Our 2nd Temple-wide rummage sale. Items included clothing, shoes, sheets, towels, curtains, small toys, stuffed animals, household items, etc.
Talent Show – April 13, 2013
Another memorable night of song, dance and surprises following a Havdalah service. The annual Talent Show is not to be missed – members of all ages share their talents including singing, dancing, joking, playing musical instruments, poetry reading, monologues – every year is remarkable!
See photos from the show!
Shabbat Across America – March 15, 2013
EAT—PRAY—EAT! A time to get together as a community, share dinner and worship as the JCNWJ celebrated Shabbat Across America. A pot luck dinner (dairy) was followed by service and oneg.
Purim Spiel, Megillah Reading and Purim Carnival – February 24, 2013
The annual retelling of the story of Purim – the JCNWJ Purim Spiel is unlike any other and not to be missed! Purim Carnival followed.
JCNWJ Mitzvah Day – December 9, 2012
An afternoon of caring at the Clover Rest Home in Columbia as residents were treated to Chanukah songs, stories, games, latckes and good cheer. Sisterhood-sponsored lunch at 11:30 was followed by noon departure .
Flyer (pdf, 57kb)
Kristallnacht Commemoration – November 2, 2012
Ruth Schutzbank addressed our congregation at our Kristallnacht service, elaborating on her family’s personal accounts of surviving the Holocaust.
Ushering In The Days of Awe – SELICHOT – September 8, 2012
Selichot are special prayers for forgiveness said in the period leading up to the High Holidays. Congregants joined Rabbi Lewis and Cantor Goldmann to prepare for the High Holy Days, musically and spiritually, beginning with an Intergenerational Choir Rehearsa, a Teaching Program in preparation for the High Holy Days and a Havdalah Service followed by a pot-luck supper.
Outdoor BBQ and Shabbat Service – July 27, 2012 – An outdoor Bar-B-Q with kosher hamburgers and hotdogs followed by the shabbat service.
Shabbaton in Honor of Rabbi Ellen Jay Lewis, June 22–23, 2012
What do we mean by a Shabbaton? A special time set apart to honor and celebrate someone, in this case, Rabbi Lewis, through prayer, ritual, song, study, and food. The Friday night service included music by Cantor Elana and sermon by Rabbi Mindy Portnoy, followed by a singularly delicious Oneg. On Saturday morning, Rabbi Lewis again led the service and a luncheon followed.
Learn to Blow the Shofar! May 20, 2012
The JCNWJ presented a Shofaron, a workshop for people who want to learn how to blow the shofar, held to honor the memory of Eric Edelstein, our dear friend and longtime member who served as our shofar blower (ba’al tekiah) for many years.
Special Shabbat Service/Concert,May 18, 2012
A festive Shabbat concert celebratee Cantor Elana’s last weekend with us at JCNWJ. Cantor Elana (a full cantor as of her ordination on May 6) was accompanied by pianist Shinae Kim, bringing us new melodies and presenting some of her favorite cantorial works on the themes of Shabbat joy, love, rest, celebration, and contemplation. The music included songs in Yiddish, traditional chazzanut, and Israeli art song, as well as songs that we know and love at JCNWJ. An Oneg Shabbat with delicious delicacies followed.
Walking Tour of Delancey Street, May 6, 2012
The Sisterhood sponsored Jewish Heritage Walking Tour of Delancey Street in New York City was not to be missed! Highlights included: Gus’s Pickles, Forward Building, Tenement Museum, Mikveh, Henry Street Settlement, America’s Oldest Synagogue and dinner at Noah’s Ark Deli.
Yom HaShoah Commemoration, April 22, 2012
The film “THE SECOND GENERATION: Ripples from the Holocaust” was shown. Harry Hillard, who directed the film, was our guest speaker. The documentary, which includes interviews, personal family photographs, and archival footage, features several New Jersey residents who are children of Holocaust survivors.
Special Membership Meeting, April 15, 2012
The Board of Trustees of the JCNWJ is called this special meeting of the membership with a single focus: to vote on a proposal to purchase a light-weight Torah in honor of Rabbi Lewis’s 18th anniversary with us. The vote was unanimous in the affirmative!
Cantor Elana Rosen-Brown Senior Recital, April 4, 2012
Cantor Elana gave her senior recital at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, and invited the congregation to attend.
Talent Show – March 31, 2012
Another memorable night of song, dance and surprises. The annual Talent Show is not to be missed – members of all ages share their talent.
Purim Spiel, Megillah Reading and Purim Carnival – March 4, 2012
The annual retelling of the story of Purim – the JCNWJ Purim Spiel is unlike any other and not to be missed! Purim Carnival followed. Watch the 2012 Purim Spiel!
Women’s Self Defense Class – March 6, 2012
Self defense tips and moves that may save your life!
Shabbat Across America – March 9, 2012
EAT—PRAY—EAT! A time to get together as a community, share dinner and worship.
Tallit-Making Workshop, February 5, 2012
The Mind-Body-Spirit Connection – November 30, 2011
Understanding the basic nutrition needed for your body and mind to function at its optimal best can be confusing with all the information available today. Holistic health practitioner, natural foods chef and yoga instructor, Delia Quigley delivered this vital information in simple layman’s terms geared for anyone interested in understanding their relationship to food, to their body and ultimately to themselves.
Program flyer (pdf, 355kb)
Kristallnacht Commemoration – November 4, 2011
Guest speaker Dr. Robert Werner recounted the life of his father, Harold Werner, a Jewish partisan who risked his life fighting an underground war against the Nazi occupiers in Poland and whose memoir Fighting Back: A Memoir of Jewish Resistance in World War II was published in 1992, shortly after he passed away. Dr. Werner also shared his own personal experience growing up as the son of a partisan in Vineland, New Jersey.
Family Mitzvah Day – Sunday, October 2, 2011
Participants met at the temple to caravan to Longmeadow Farm, part of America’s Grow-a-Row to pick food for the needy.
Shabbat Service Followed By Pot Luck Dinner, July 29, 2011
Our first service of the 2011-2012 year was a Kabbalat Shabbat service followed by a pot-luck supper.
Yom HaShoah Observance, May 1, 2011
The JCNWJ proudly welcomed Peretz School students Joel Dancyger, Lilka Elbaum and Henry Lewkowicz to view “Peretzniks”, a documentary that shares the story of more than 100 former Jewish students of the Peretz School in Lodz, Poland – most of whom were orphaned during the Holocaust.
Talent Show – April 2, 2011
Another memorable night of song, dance and surprises transformed the sanctuary. The annual Talent Show is not to be missed. and Members are encouraged to share their talent.
Purim Spiel, Megillah Reading and Purim Carnival – March 20, 2011
The annual retelling of the story of Purim – the JCNWJ Purim Spiel is unlike any other and not to be missed! Purim Carnival followed. Watch the Purim Spiel!
Menorah Lighting in Long Valley – December 4, 2010
Members of the Jewish Center of Northwest Jersey led the candle lighting on the porch of Splash Restaurant on the corner of East Mill Road and Route 517. This was followed by festive singing led by Cantor Elana Rosen-Brownand and dinner at Splash.
Memories of Kristallnacht – October 29, 2010
Featured Erwin Ganz, who was born in Frankfurt, Germany, in 1929. He lived there until he was three years old, when he was forced to relocate to Berkastel Koos, Germany. He emigrated to the United States in April, 1939, at age nine, and his family settled in Newark.
Why and How to Advocate for Israel – October 17, 2010
This program was presented by StandWithUs, an international organization dedicated to bringing peace to the Middle East by educating about Israel and the misinformation that often surrounds the Middle East conflict. On its Web site, www.standwithus.com, the group describes itself this way: “We strive to ensure that Israel’s side of the story is told on university campuses and in communities, the media, libraries, and churches around the world…to help bring us closer to peace.” The program provided the information and some of the skills and tools necessary to advocate for Israel, and demonstrate how Israel is part of our lives.
Family Mitzvah Day – September 26, 2010
HELP TO FEED THE HUNGRY IN OUR AREA! Participants met at the temple to caravan to Longmeadow Farm, part of America’s Grow-a-Row.
Congregational Picnic – June 27, 2010
Swimming, boating, fishing, wiffle ball, ping pong, conversation and of course, good food, always make this annual event a rousing success.
Shabbat Service With Temple ‘Rock Band’, Friday, April 16, 2010
Back by popular demand after its debut performance last month, the temple ‘Rock Band’ returned with Cantor Coyot leading temple members accompanying the service with instruments and voice.
Menorah Lighting in Long Valley – December 18, 2009
Temple members led the celebration at the public menorah lighting on the last night of Hanukkah at the “Splash” restaurant, One West Mill Road, Long Valley. The lighting of the final candle of the holiday was followed by dinner at Splash with festive singing and celebration. The temple’s Chanukah service began at 7:30 back at the temple.
Healing Service for Chanukah – December 13, 2009
Our Healing Service is for anyone and everyone, for the sick and the ones who care for the sick, for the recovering and the healthy, for those who want to feel the support of the community and for those who want to do the supporting. At such a service one may gain spiritual strength through listening, reflection, meditation and prayersm or just by knowing that you are not the only one on such a journey. The service was be held with our neighboring congregations, Or Chadash and the Flemington JCC, and in conjunction with the Ohr Tikvah Healing Center of the Jewish Federation of Somerset, Warren and Hunterdon Counties.
Kristallnacht Service – November 6, 2009
This year, special guest Anne Bloch joined us as her son and temple member, Lenny, shared her story – as a twelve year old, Anne Plaut was separated from her parents and sent to a children’s camp in Holland. Her parents said they’d see her in a month. One year later they picked Anne up on their escape from tyranny. The young Anne survived and still thrives today at 83.
Send-off for Cantor Marcy, May 30, 2009
Student Cantor Marcy Kadin’s three years with us were drawing to a close and we wanted to say a proper goodbye as a congregation. So a special Havdallah service was held at which Marcy performed several pieces from her recital, followed by a schmooze party in her honor in the simcha room.
Guest Speaker Rabbi Robin Nafshi, “On Jewish Healing” – May 1, 2009
In addition to her duties serving as a congregational rabbi at Temple Beth-El in Hillsborough, Rabbi Nafshi is committed to working in the area of Jewish healing. She currently serves as the Community Rabbi-Community Chaplain for Ohr Tikvah Jewish Healing Center of Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren Counties. In the late 1990s, after being involved as a lay leader in her local community, Robin Nafshi realized her calling in her commitment to the Jewish people and Jewish life. Her past work as a hospice chaplain and present work with Ohr Tikvah ensure that her thoughts on Jewish healing are important and relevant to all of us in our daily lives.
Yom HaShoah Observance, “The Holocaust Through the Eyes of a Child” – April 19, 2009
Our guest speaker, Tova Friedman, presented a short film after her riveting and moving talk on “The Holocaust through the Eyes of a Child” for our annual Yom HaShoah observance. Mrs. Friedman, a mere six-and-a-half when the concentration camp was liberated by the Russians, was one of the youngest survivors of Auschwitz. Mrs. Friedman, a noted and sought-after speaker, has shared her experiences in Auschwitz with many schools and organizations.
Scout Shabbat, February 6, 2009
A.J. Seidorf received a special commendation, presented by Helen Mattson on behalf of the congregation, for his Eagle Scout project, which benefited the JCNWJ. Connor Onweller received his Aleph award, presented in absentia by his teacher Mike Weiner and read by Sharon Herson. (Some who were present remembered when A.J. received his Aleph.)
Charlotte Fels 90th Birthday Lunch, December 7, 2008
A potluck lunch to honor one of our oldest and dearest members.
Non-Jews by Birth, Jews By Choice, November 16, 2008
Sometimes our non-Jewish members mention that they want to learn more about Judaism. Rabbi Lewis would like to know how she can help, but she can’t do that without the person’s help. The only agenda was for those interestd to talk and for the rabbi to listen.
Kristallnacht Commemoration, November 7, 2008
Dr. Susan Lederman, Professor of Public Administration at Kean University, spoke on the topic “Broken Glass and a Broken World: Reflections of a Hidden Child on the Holocaust”
Born in Bratislava, Slovakia, Dr. Lederman survived the Holocaust as a hidden child and immigrated with her parents to the United States in 1948. She has served as Director of Kean’s Master of Public Administration Program and as the founding Executive Director of the Gateway Institute for Regional Development. She has been on the faculty at the University since 1977. Dr. Lederman is also a past president of the League of Women Voters of the United States (1990-92) and served as the president of the New Jersey League of Women Voters. She holds leadership positions in various civic organizations and is serving or has served on several state commissions. She is a past president of Temple Sinai (1993-94). Susan Lederman holds an A.B. degree in Political Science from the University of Michigan and an M.A. and Ph.D. in Political Science from Rutgers University.
Our annual commemoration of Kristallnacht is part of the Shabbat evening service.
Yom HaShoa Observance – April 27, 2008
Dr. Mathilde Benveniste was the guest speaker at our Yom HaShoah observance. Dr. Benveniste spoke about the experiences of her family, one of five that remained in Thessaloniki (Salonika), Greece, and survived the Nazi occupation. (More than 50,000 Jews from Thessaloniki were deported and murdered in the Holocaust.) She placed her personal story in the context of the history of her native city, once known as “Mother of Israel” and “Jerusalem of the Balkans.”
Community Seder, April 20, 2008
The second annual Community Seder had lots of wonderful home-cooked food. The dinner is coordinated in advance, with all participants bringing specified items. Making Time Sacred: And the Rest Is Commentary – January 6, 2008
In this talk, it is argued that transforming the not-yet holy into the holy, and in the process making time sacred is the single commandment that underlies all other commandments. Rabbi Dennis Shulman, Ph.D., examined selected biblical and talmudic passages, as well as some of the writing of Abraham Joshua Heschel to argue that to be Jewish and/or spiritual, one must sanctify time.
Awarding of the Ner Tamid (Eternal Light) Emblem to A.J. Seidorf – December 21, 2007
During Shabbat services A.J. Seidorf was awarded the Ner Tamid Emblem, a pendant representing the Eternal Light. The emblem symbolizes the completion of all the requirements of the Ner Tamid program, an official Boy Scouts of America program that helps participants to grow spiritually. Developed by the National Jewish Committee on Scouting, the program is intended for boys in grades 6-9. Similar programs have been developed by the Protestant and Catholic committees on Scouting.
60th Anniversary Celebration Picnic – June 10, 2007 – Celebration at the home of Mike Weiner and Diane Margolin. This family event had food, music, game, swimming, fishing and fun.
“My Gift to You: Personal Recollections of a Hungarian Jewish Child from the Holocaust Years” – April 15, 2007
Esther Bakonyi, speaker on Yom HaShoah
Prepared text of Esther’s talk (pdf, 20kb)
A Day to Remember – An account of Charlotte Fels reading from her book, This is My Story, February 25, 2007.
“A Taste of Judaism: Are You Curious?” – A unique program designed to engage “beginners” – Jewish or not – in learning more about Judaism. September 2005
Service for Healing – December 11, 2005 – A Service for Healing was held December 11, 2005. A Service of Healing provides a place to pray, reflect and meditate.
Here are some photos and videos from events at the JCNWJ:
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