Friendly Reminder: Beginning this Saturday, November 7, Afternoon/Evening Services will begin at 4:00 pm.
D'var Torah From Rabbi Jeffrey Abraham -Parashat Vayera-
Planning for the future sounds cliché, particularly with so much uncertainty around us. We've seen the myriad of pledges God made to Abraham in Parshat Lech Lecha and now turn to Parshat Vayera.
Abraham has prepared a meal for the three angels and as they are leaving, God appears to Abraham and informs him of His planned destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Why is Abraham privy to this? (18:17) God told Abraham in very certain terms of the blessings he would bestow upon him last week. (12:2-3)
How do Abraham's blessings compel God to include him in the decision to destroy Sodom? Contemporary scholar Rabbi Yehuda Rock brings down that the “blessings” aren't simply commitments, but the task Abraham will bear in bringing the belief in one God to humankind. This is a long term endeavor. Abraham's actions will unquestionably affect his ability to fulfill his ultimate mission.
Our Chumash states on page 103 that “Abraham argues with God.” I like to portray it as he respectfully pleads with God, “Will you sweep away the innocent along with the guilty?” (18:23) Each of us should learn from Abraham to not only glimpse at today, but to have one eye on the future. Our challenge is to take the metaphorical step back from the trees and see the whole forest. I wish Abraham were here to ameliorate the racial strife, the pandemic, economic problems, and heightened political discord in our “forest.” We are aiming to do this at B'nai Amoona, one day at a time. Together we will build a community that is brighter than ever, just like our forefather, Abraham.
1. For a beautiful rendition of the moment God speaks to Abraham last week in the Torah and tells Abraham he will be blessed, I urge you to watch/listen to this rendition by Debbie Friedman: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZqU-ymdUhc
Shabbat Spotlight
Candlelighting:
Friday, November 6 at 4:37 pm
Havdalah: Saturday, November 7 at 5:24 pm
Please click the links below for this week's Torah and Haftarah commentary
Melaveh Malkah - Post Havdalah Discussion - Facilitated by Rabbi Jeffrey Abraham and Family: 5:24 pm
via Zoom (only)
*Please note that you may need to input a Zoom password to access our Friday Night, Shabbat Morning & Saturday Afternoon/Evening Zoom link. The Password is in your inbox.
Weekday Minyan Information
Join Us For Minyan!
Our B’nai Amoona’s Minyan Program consists of our amazing, dedicated Minyannaires who assure warm and welcoming ongoing daily Minyanim, morning and evening. These services support those in our community who have lost loved ones and may be feeling lonely and isolated. Our BA virtual Minyanim are a constant source of strength and comfort for those who wish to recite the Kaddish. Moreover, our Minyanim are a wonderful opportunity for spiritual uplift, social connection, community building, and the ability to fulfill one's daily Chiyuv, duty, to thank God for all that we have. This combination of Kehillah and Kibbitzing allows up to remain spiritually connected despite being socially distant. All are warmly welcomed! Please join us!
Virtual Morning Minyan
Sunday Morning Minyan will take place virtually at 9:00 am
Monday - Friday Morning Minyan will take place virtually at 7:00 am
Shelby and Bob Susman & Deborah Pasch on the birth of their granddaughter, Lyla Rose Pasch. Proud parents are Stephanie and Adam Pasch. Lyla is the little sister of Zelda Pasch.
We are now offering the opportunity to attend Shabbat Services "in-person." Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Please click the image below to reserve your spot - see you in Shul!
Congregation B’nai Amoona 324 South Mason Rd St. Louis, MO 63141
