Updates

 
Where young Jewish professionals connect 
in a sophisticated, welcoming, and relaxed setting 
with a spirited vibe 

June Events
Shavuot | Biltong & Beer | Dairy Buffet | Ice Cream | Warrior | Sushi First Fridays | Guys Basketball | Gals Dessert | Wednesdays | Couple Paint | Speeddating | Israel Volunteering Trip

SHAVUOT HOLIDAY, SUN.-TUES, JUNE 1-3!
👉 Sunday, June 1 at 11:30 pm - All Night Learn-A-Thon, featuring a lineup of short Torah talks on many Jewish subjects!
👉 Monday, June 2 at 11:15am - Hear the 10 Commandments followed by Dairy Kiddush & Ice Cream party!
👉 Tuesday, June 3 at 11:45am - Yizkor Memorial Service
Complete Shavout schedule at www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule

Sunday, June 1, 11:30 pm A Night of Torah - Biltong & Beer
BE A PARTICIPANT: A Night of Torah features a series of ten-minute power talks showcasing important Jewish ideas that change attitudes and lives. These talks are designed to educate, illuminate, challenge and inspire.
One of These Presenters Will Blow Your Mind – Find Out Which One!
From Ruth to Free Speech – Click Here for the Full List of Game-Changing Talks
BE A PRESENTER: Have a Torah idea worth sharing? Submit your idea and you might be selected to present your 10 minute Torah Talk!

Monday, June 2, 11:15 am - Shavuot 10 Commandments Reading & Ice Cream Party
Hear the 10 Commandments read on the 3,337th anniversary of their giving! Followed by an Ice Cream Party and delicious dairy Kiddush Fun-filled Children's program! Full Shavuot schedule at www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule

Monday, June 2, 7 pm - Shavuot Ice Cream Social
For the love of ice cream & the love of Torah, We are excited to invite you to join us in celebrating Shavuot with an elegant evening with 10 gourmet toppings & 10 Commandments RSVP: 713.419.3960 www.yjphouston.org/icecream

Wednesdays, June 4, 7:30 pm - CYP Academy Worrier to Warrior: Pain, Anguish & Anxiety
The Chassidic Approach to Overcoming Emotional Hurdles
Ever feel like life throws a little too much your way sometimes? Worrier to Warrior is a powerful new course that offers practical tools and timeless Jewish wisdom to help you navigate those inner battles, tap into your soul’s strength, and face challenges with more clarity, calm, and confidence. Build that emotional toolbox—you’ll be glad you did. REGISTER: www.yjphouston.org/warrior4

 Friday, June 6, 7:30 pm - Sushi & Asian Shabbat - June First Fridays 
Join Young Jewish Professionals for a Sushi & Asian Shabbat Dinner at YJP Houston - where spirits run high! 7:30pm Services, 8:02 pm Candle Lighting, 8:45 pm Sushi & AsianShabbat Dinner.
$20 until Thursday, $36 after. Use promo code: advance. www.yjphouston.org/sushi

Wednesday, June 11, 7:30 pm Guys Game Night: Basketball
Basketball • Brotherhood • Bite - Join us for a night of friendly competition and great vibes with fellow young Jewish professionals. Whether you’re a seasoned baller or just in it for the fun, come run the court and connect with the guys. Let’s play hard and laugh harder.

 Wednesday, June 11, 7:30 pm Ladies Night: The Sweet Spot
Dessert & Discussion with Chanie -  Gourmet desserts •  Drinks •  Deep discussion - Let’s connect, unwind, and find that sweet spot together.

Wednesdays, June 18 & 25 8:00 pm - Dinner, Class & Social with Chanie
Weekly Contemporary Jewish Classes for Young Professionals Come discuss, agree, disagree, mingle and network with other young Jewish professionals, singles and couples at series of classes / discussions on contemporary themes! Class, discussion and FREE DINNER!

Sunday, June 22nd 7:30pm - Couples Paint N’ Sip
Join us for a romantic and creative evening designed just for couples! Enjoy light refreshments and drinks as you and your partner bring a canvas to life. No experience needed — just come ready to laugh, connect, and create something beautiful together. RSVP at www.chabaduptown.org/couples

Met@Chabad Speeddating, Thursday, June 26 at 8 pm Houston time
www.metatchabad.com/speeddating

Wed-Thurs., July 2-10 - CYP Encounter Israel - Giving Back as a Community
AS LOW AS $599 INCLUDING FLIGHT!
Now, more than ever, Israel needs us. This CYP Encounter Israel trip is more than just an experience—it’s a mission. Join Jewish young professionals (ages 22-39) from around the world for a unique opportunity to support Israeli communities and individuals deeply impacted by the war. This trip, in partnership with Birthright’s volunteer initiative, is designed to bolster and uplift those in need through hands-on service, connection, and solidarity. While giving back, you’ll also immerse yourself in Israel’s vibrant culture, explore its rich history, and experience an unforgettable Shabbat in Jerusalem. . www.yjphouston.org/israeltrip

May Month In Photos!

YJP Houston to Guatemala
Just got back from an unforgettable Shabbaton in 🇬🇹 Guatemala — from hiking 🌋 Acatenango Volcano and bonding under the stars ✨ to exploring Mayan villages on ATVs 🏍️ and welcoming Shabbat with the most amazing group 🕊️. The views were unreal, the energy was electric, and the inspiration was next level 🙌. Already counting down to the next adventure!

Lag Ba'Omer Steak House 
What a 🔥 night at the YJP Houston Lag BaOmer Steak House! We gathered under the stars to celebrate this mystical holiday with an unforgettable outdoor evening. From mouthwatering steaks 🥩 hot off the grill, a cozy fire pit with s’mores 🔥🍫, an open bar 🍸, and incredible music by @avi.ro 🎶—the energy was perfect. Huge thanks to everyone who came out and made it special, and to hagit_bibi_photography 📸 for capturing it all so beautifully!

Pre-Shavuot Women's Babka Bake
Babka Bake success!  Big thank you to @oh.mama_kitchen for sharing her expertise and led us in crafting our own gorgeous babkas Each woman left with a stunning babka to call her own @maria_kristal.art did an amazing job at capturing the magic 

We hope to see you on the Shavuos holiday, especially to hear the Ten Commandments read on their 3,337th anniversary! Women, Men, and children should all be present on Monday at 11:15 am.

With wishes for Kabbolas HaTorah Bsimcha Ubpinimiyus,
May you receive the Torah this holiday of Shavuos with joy and internally,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie
Rabbi Yosef & Chanale

P.S. As usual, we will also be hosting holiday dinners (Sun & Mon night) and lunches (Mon - dairy & Tuesday). Please respond to this email with which meal you would like to join us for. We would love to have you!

Shavuos Grand 3D Experience
Join us for an unforgettable Shavuos Grand 3D Experience for the whole family! Right after the reading of the Ten Commandments, children will be transported back in time to witness a larger-than-life Matan Torah—complete with a towering Mount Sinai & life-sized Luchos! Enjoy an interactive play, Shavuos-themed games, and exciting surprises. Don’t miss it!

Guide | Story | Insights | Kids | Recipes | Multimedia

Sunday, May 18 | Pre-Shavuot Evening
- 6:30 pm Pre-Shavuot Babka Bake - Photos

Sunday, June 1 | Shavuot Eve
- 8:00 pm Evening Holiday Services, Light Yom Tov Candles (Blessings)
Holiday Dinner after Services - RSVP
- 11:30 pm A Night of Torah 
Lineup of Torah talks on many Jewish subjects! APPLY TO PRESENT

Monday, June 2 | 1st Day of Shavuot
- 10:00 am Morning Services (Shacharit)
* 11am-1pm Special Childrens' Service w/ games, activities and more!
- 11:15 am Reading of Ten Commandments followed by 1 pm Dairy Kiddush & Ice Cream party!
- 7:00 pm YJP Shavuot Ice Cream Social & Ten Commandments
- 8:00 pm Mincha & Maariv Holiday Services
- AFTER 8:59 pm* Light Yom Tov Candles from a pre-existing flame (Blessings)
Holiday Dinner after Services - RSVP

Tuesday, June 3 | 2nd Day of Shavuot
- 9:00 am Chassidus
- 10:00 am Morning Services (Shacharit)
- 11:45 am approx. Yizkor Memorial Service
Kiddush Lunch after Services
- 8:00 pm Mincha Services
- 9:00 pm Maariv, Havdalla & Yom Tov Ends 

Open Door Policy. No membership required.

Guide | Story | Insights | Kids | Recipes | Multimedia

One of the most essential values we strive to instill in our children is the virtue of hard work. In a world that often tempts us with shortcuts and quick fixes, we remind ourselves — and them — that true satisfaction and meaningful success come only through effort and perseverance.

The prohibition against charging interest when lending money to a fellow Jew, which we learn about in this week’s Torah portion, offers insight into this value. On the surface, collecting interest seems like standard business practice. The Torah, however, teaches us a deeper principle: we are meant to benefit from our own efforts, not from passive gains at someone else’s expense.

When we lend money without interest, we affirm our belief in the dignity of honest labor and mutual support. This mitzvah reinforces the idea that every achievement should stem from genuine effort, not from another’s toil. It’s a powerful message, especially for our children, as they learn to navigate a world where entitlement often competes with accountability.

This lesson extends beyond financial dealings. Spiritually, we are here to transform the world into a home for Hashem’s presence. That transformation requires effort, dedication, and a commitment to growth. By modeling hard work and responsibility in our own lives, we equip our children with the tools to face challenges with courage and integrity.

May we merit to see the fruits of our labor, both in the blessings we create for ourselves and in the values we pass to the next generation.

Shabbat shalom,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie Lazaroff

THE COHEN CORNER

The greater the man, the greater his humility.

The Torah portions of Behar and Bechukosai teach a powerful lesson about balancing strength with humility. Behar begins with Mount Sinai, the smallest mountain, chosen as the place where the Torah was given. This reminds us that true greatness isn’t about ego, but about recognizing that our strengths are gifts from Hashem. Moshe, though a remarkable leader, remained deeply humble because he saw his abilities as tools for fulfilling Hashem’s mission, not as personal achievements.

Bechukosai builds on this idea by comparing Hashem’s commandments to words engraved in stone, meant to become part of who we are, not just actions we perform. Together, these portions encourage us to live like “low mountains,” confident in our identity and purpose, yet grounded in humility. When we see our strengths as a way to serve, not to elevate ourselves, we live with clarity, humility, and lasting impact.

Have a fabulous Shabbos!

Rabbi Yosef, Chanale & Mushka Cohen

AROUND CHABAD
Sparks fly at YJP Houston’s Lag B’Omer ‘Steakhouse Under the Stars’ - JHV, Thurs. May 22: YJP Houston lit up the night with its annual “Lag B’Omer Steak House,” an outdoor celebration filled with great food, soulful music and meaningful moments. Young Jewish professionals gathered under the stars to enjoy a festive evening that blended tradition, community and fun. At the heart of the event was Rabbi Chaim Lazaroff, who served as MasterChef for the night – personally slicing and grilling premium steaks to each guest’s preference. A cozy fire pit added warmth and ambiance, complete with a build-your-own s’mores station. More...

The Sunday Babka Bake success! Big thank you to Oh Mama KItchen for sharing her expertise and led us in crafting our own gorgeous babkas. Each woman left with a stunning babka to call her own.  Maria Krishtalka did an amazing job at capturing the magic! Check out the photo gallery here.

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS:

• Sunday, June 1 at 11:30 pm - All Night Learn-A-Thon - featuring a lineup of Torah talks on many Jewish subjects!
• Monday, June 2 at 11:15am - Hear the 10 Commandments read on their 3,337th anniversary, followed by our annual Dairy Kiddush & Ice Cream party! Fun-filled Children's Program! More info at www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule
• Tuesday, June 3 at 11:45am - Yizkor Memorial Service

UPCOMING YJP EVENTS:

• Shavuot, Monday, June 2, 7 pm - YJP Shavuot Ice Cream Social - For the love of ice cream, & the love of Torah, we are excited to invite you to join us in celebrating Shavuot with an elegant evening with 10 gourmet toppings & 10 Commandments! 7 pm - Ice Cream Social & 10 Commandments, 8 pm - Shavuot Holiday Services Followed by Traditional Holiday Dinner www.yjphouston.org/icecream
• Two Wednesdays, May 28-June 4 - CYP Academy Worrier to Warrior: The Chassidic Approach to Overcoming Emotional Hurdles. Ever feel like life throws a little too much your way sometimes? Worrier to Warrior is a powerful new course that offers practical tools and timeless Jewish wisdom to help you navigate those inner battles, tap into your soul’s strength, and face challenges with more clarity, calm, and confidence. Build that emotional toolbox—you’ll be glad you did. REGISTER: www.yjphouston.org/warrior
• Thursday, May 29 at 8 pm  - Met@Chabad Speeddating- www.metatchabad.com/speeddating
• Wed.-Thurs., July 2-10 - CYP Israel Volunteer Trip - Meaningful, memorable and amazing volunteering trip to Israel this summer, eligible ages 18-50 —and the price is insane - as low at $599! www.yjphouston.org/israeltrip

SHABBOS MEVARCHIM SIVAN PARSHAS BEHAR-BECHUKOTAI

FRIDAY, MAY 23, IYAR 25
7:30 Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat
7:55 Shabbos Candle Lighting
Count Omer 41
RSVP for Shabbat Dinner  www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner

SHABBOS, MAY 24, IYAR 26
8:00 am Shabbos Mevarchim Tehillim
9:30 am Chassidus
10:00 am Morning Services
Shabbos Mevarchim Lunch Kiddush & Farbrengen
6:00 pm Torah Study 
7:55 pm Mincha
Study of Pirkei Avos Ch. 5
8:53 pm Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbat Ends
Count Omer 42
Living Torah Video Magazine

Happy Lag Ba’Omer! 

What. A. Week.

 Guatemala – an unforgettable adventure
 Academy Warrior – strength and spirit
 Mommy & Me – sweet moments together​​​​​​​
 Bris – welcoming a new soul
 Steak House – delicious times​​​​​​​
 Chupa – pure joy and celebration
​​​​​​​Can’t wait for an amazing Shabbat ahead with a Guest Speaker! 

Lag Ba’omer is a day that commemorates the life and teachings of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, one of the greatest sages in Jewish history. Rabbi Shimon, known for his unwavering commitment to Torah and spirituality, brought divine light into the world through his teachings, particularly the esoteric wisdom found in the Zohar.In a world often clouded by confusion and darkness, Rabbi Shimon’s teachings remind us that the Torah is our eternal source of illumination. His life demonstrated the power of steadfast faith and dedication to bringing G-d’s presence into every aspect of our lives.

Lag Ba’omer also serves as a reminder to emulate Rabbi Shimon by bringing the light of Torah into our own lives and communities. Whether through acts of kindness, learning a new insight from the Torah, or strengthening our commitment to mitzvot, each of us can contribute to making the world brighter.

As we gather around bonfires, symbolic of Rabbi Shimon’s spiritual radiance, let us reflect on how we, too, can ignite sparks of holiness in our surroundings. Together, our collective efforts will create a flame that dispels even the deepest darkness, heralding a world filled with peace and understanding.

Shabbat shalom,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie Lazaroff

THE COHEN CORNER

Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing.

“And Hashem said to Moshe: Say to the Kohanim, the sons of Aaron, and say to them…” Rashi explains the repetition in this verse from our Parsha as a directive for the adult Kohanim to teach these laws to their children. It's not just about giving instructions, but about living them. The Kohanim, held to a higher standard of holiness, were responsible not only for maintaining their own purity but for modeling and passing that standard on to the next generation.

This message is timeless. Children are aware of inconsistency and learn far more from example than from words. We can’t expect them to embrace values like honesty, kindness, or commitment to Jewish life unless they see those values reflected in the adults around them. Telling them to “go to shul” is rarely effective; inviting them with “let’s go” is far more powerful. Let us strive to be the kind of people our children can look up to, not just in speech, but in action. In doing so, we'll inspire them to walk proudly in our footsteps, building a brighter future.

Have a fantastic Shabbos! 

Rabbi Yosef, Chanale & Mushka Cohen

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS:

• Friday, May 16 at 7:30 pm - Join us for an engaging Community-themed Shabbat Dinner with an extra dose of meaning and connection! RSVP at www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner
• Sunday, May 18 at 6:30 pm - Pre-Shavuot Women's Babka Bake - Master the art of baking babka with Meital from Oh Mama Kitchen! Reserve at www.chabaduptown.org/babka
• Thursday, May 22 at 10:30am - Mommy and Me with Chanale Cohen - Nurturing and engaging program designed for mothers and babies (newborn to 2 years) to learn, play, and connect in a warm Jewish environment. - www.chabaduptown.org/mommy
• Sunday, June 1 at 11:30 pm - All Night Learn-A-Thon - featuring a lineup of Torah talks on many Jewish subjects!
• Monday, June 2 at 11:15am - Hear the 10 Commandments read on their 3,337th anniversary, followed by our annual Dairy Kiddush & Ice Cream party! Fun-filled Children's Program! More info at www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule
• Tuesday, June 3 at 11:45am - Yizkor Memorial Service

UPCOMING YJP EVENTS:

• Three Wednesdays, May 21-June 4 - CYP Academy Worrier to Warrior: The Chassidic Approach to Overcoming Emotional Hurdles. Ever feel like life throws a little too much your way sometimes? Worrier to Warrior is a powerful new course that offers practical tools and timeless Jewish wisdom to help you navigate those inner battles, tap into your soul’s strength, and face challenges with more clarity, calm, and confidence. Build that emotional toolbox—you’ll be glad you did. REGISTER: www.yjphouston.org/warrior
• Thursday, May 22, 7:30 pm - Third Thursdays Happy Hour - Location TBA
• Thursday, May 29 at 8 pm  - Met@Chabad Speeddating- www.metatchabad.com/speeddating
• Wed.-Thurs., July 2-10 - CYP Israel Volunteer Trip - Meaningful, memorable and amazing volunteering trip to Israel this summer, eligible ages 18-50 —and the price is insane - as low at $599! www.yjphouston.org/israeltrip

SHABBOS LAG BA'OMER, PARSHAS EMOR

FRIDAY, LAG BA'OMER, MAY 9, IYAR 11
7:30 Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat
7:51 Shabbos Candle Lighting
Count Omer 34
RSVP for Community Shabbat Dinner  www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner

SHABBOS, MAY 10, IYAR 12
9:00 am Chassidus
10:00 am Morning Services
Shabbos Lunch Kiddush
Guest Speaker Levi Shmotkin: Finding Emotional Balance in an Unbalanced World, Uncovering Judaism's Transformative Approach to Emotional Wellness
7:50 pm Mincha
Study of Pirkei Avos Ch. 4
8:49 pm Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbat Ends
Count Omer 35
Living Torah Video Magazine

Yom Kippur is often seen as the most “religious” day of the year—fasting, prayer, confession. But in this week’s double Torah reading, Acharei–Kedoshim, we’re reminded that holiness isn’t about rituals alone. Hashem says, “Be holy, for I, the L-rd your G-d, am holy.” But what does that really mean in everyday, modern terms?

The Torah gives us some surprisingly down-to-earth examples: leave the corners of your fields for the poor (today, that might mean charitable giving or volunteer work); don’t insult people or gossip (a daily challenge in personal and professional life); treat workers fairly, honor your elders, show kindness to strangers. Holiness, in this context, isn’t about perfection—it’s about decency, integrity, and compassion.

Yom Kippur, discussed in Acharei, pushes us to take a hard look at ourselves. But Kedoshim asks: can we take that same honesty and apply it year-round? Can we build in moments of reflection—not just once a year, but regularly? Can we be more thoughtful in how we speak, give more generously, and act with more empathy in our relationships?

You don’t have to be traditionally observant to live a holy life. You just have to care enough to try. That effort—daily, imperfect, sincere—is what transforms ordinary life into something sacred.

Shabbat shalom,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie Lazaroff

P.S. A group of Houston young Jewish professionals are having an incredible time on the CYP trip to Antigua, Guatemala! Joining young Jewish professionals from across the USA we have  been exploring the city, taking in the stunning views from Hobbitenango, and hiking up Volcano Acatenango (13,044 ft).

We camped overnight around a cozy fire at 11,811 ft, watching the active Volcano Fuego from a safe distance. The sunrise from the peak was breathtaking! Rabbi Chaim shared a meaningful meditation on gratitude at high altitude.

Shabbat will be a special time for us to bond and reflect on our experiences. We're grateful for this journey and the connections we're making and looking forward to sharing all about it when we return!

You can still apply to join us on our next volunteering trip to Israel in July! For ages 18-50, don't miss it!

THE COHEN CORNER
The way you do anything is the way you do everything.

This week’s Torah portion opens with the story of Nadav and Avihu, whose intense longing to connect with Hashem led to their untimely passing. Their mistake wasn’t in wanting holiness, but in forgetting that Hashem wants us to elevate the world, not escape it. By stepping into the Holy of Holies unprepared and ignoring the physical elements of their priestly role, they turned away from the world instead of bringing their spiritual passion into it. Their story reminds us that even the most elevated experiences need to stay grounded in purpose.

This message is just as relevant for us today. We all have moments when we feel inspired, whether through prayer, Torah study, or in quiet reflection. Those moments aren’t meant to stay locked inside, but to ripple outward into our daily lives, in how we treat our friends, co-workers, family, and bring meaning into the ordinary. The challenge is not just to rise spiritually, but to return with its effects in the world around us. So the next time you feel spiritually uplifted, ask yourself: how can I carry this into my everyday actions? That’s where true holiness begins.

Have a fabulous Shabbos!

Rabbi Yosef, Chanale & Mushka Cohen

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS:

• Thursdays, May 8-22 at 10:30am - Mommy and Me with Chanale Cohen - Nurturing and engaging program designed for mothers and babies (newborn to 2 years) to learn, play, and connect in a warm Jewish environment. - www.chabaduptown.org/mommy
• Friday, May 16 at 7:30 pm - Join us for an engaging Community-themed Shabbat Dinner with an extra dose of meaning and connection! RSVP at www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner
• Sunday, May 18 at 6:30 pm - Pre-Shavuot Women's Babka Bake - Master the art of baking babka with Meital from Oh Mama Kitchen! Reserve at www.chabaduptown.org/babka
• Sunday, June 1 at 11:30 pm - All Night Learn-A-Thon - featuring a lineup of Torah talks on many Jewish subjects!
• Monday, June 2 at 11:15am - Hear the 10 Commandments read on their 3,337th anniversary, followed by our annual Dairy Kiddush & Ice Cream party! Fun-filled Children's Program! More info at www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule
• Tuesday, June 3 at 11:45am - Yizkor Memorial Service

UPCOMING YJP EVENTS:

• Four Wednesdays, May 14-June 4 - CYP Academy Worrier to Warrior: The Chassidic Approach to Overcoming Emotional Hurdles. Ever feel like life throws a little too much your way sometimes? Worrier to Warrior is a powerful new course that offers practical tools and timeless Jewish wisdom to help you navigate those inner battles, tap into your soul’s strength, and face challenges with more clarity, calm, and confidence. Build that emotional toolbox—you’ll be glad you did. REGISTER: www.yjphouston.org/warrior
• Thursday, May 15 at 8pm - Lag Ba'omer Steakhouse - Experience the mystical Jewish Holiday with mouthwatering steaks, fire pit and s’mores, open bar and music. RSVP at www.yjphouston.org/steaks 
• Thursday, May 22, 7:30 pm - Third Thursdays Happy Hour - Location TBA
• Thursday, May 29 at 8 pm  - Met@Chabad Speeddating- www.metatchabad.com/speeddating
• Wed.-Thurs., July 2-10 - CYP Israel Volunteer Trip - Meaningful, memorable and amazing volunteering trip to Israel this summer, eligible ages 18-50 —and the price is insane - as low at $599! www.yjphouston.org/israeltrip

SHABBOS PARSHAS ACHAREI-KEDOSHIM

FRIDAY, MAY 9, IYAR 11
7:30 Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat
7:46 Shabbos Candle Lighting
Count Omer 27
RSVP for Shabbat Dinner  www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner

SHABBOS, MAY 10, IYAR 12
9:00 am Chassidus
10:00 am Morning Services
Shabbos Lunch Kiddush
7:45 pm Mincha
Study of Pirkei Avos Ch. 3
8:43 pm Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbat Ends
Count Omer 28
Living Torah Video Magazine

This week’s double Torah portion, Tazria-Metzora, challenges us to consider the impact of our words and actions. At first glance, the detailed discussions of tzara’at—the spiritual affliction often linked to gossip (lashon hara)—may feel distant from our modern lives. Yet, its lessons remain relevant at all times.

The Torah teaches that words have the power to build or destroy. Just as tzara’at manifested on one’s skin, clothing, or home, our careless speech can leave visible marks on the lives of others and on our own soul. The process of purification, detailed in these portions, reminds us that healing is always possible. It begins with introspection and humility—qualities symbolized by the afflicted’s isolation outside the camp.

But the Torah doesn’t leave us in isolation. It teaches that reintegration comes through the support of the community and the guidance of the Kohen. This is a reminder that no one is truly alone in their struggles. We are encouraged to lift one another up, to speak words of kindness, and to approach one another with compassion.

The lesson here is obvious: Let us commit to purifying our speech, transforming negativity into blessings. In doing so, we sanctify not only ourselves but also the spaces we inhabit. May we merit to see a world healed and whole, with the coming of Moshiach, when unity and holiness prevail.

Shabbat shalom,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie Lazaroff

THE COHEN CORNER
Ask what’s wrong before saying someone is wrong. 

The Torah speaks of tzara’at, a spiritual affliction that resulted from gossip. Before someone could begin the process of purification, a Kohen had to confirm the diagnosis. Even if a scholar could recognize the signs, only a Kohen had the authority to declare someone afflicted. Why? Because Aharon, the first Kohen’s legacy, was one of peace and love for every Jew. His descendants carried that same compassion, and they would never send someone into the emotionally difficult process of recovery unless they were absolutely certain the diagnosis was correct.

This teaches us a powerful lesson: before jumping to judge someone’s actions or character, we must check our own perspective. Are we seeing clearly, or through the lens of our own flaws? Like the Kohen, we should approach others with empathy, not assumption. When we interact with understanding instead of judgment, we build a loving community. 

Have a fabulous Shabbos!

Rabbi Yosef, Chanale & Mushka Cohen

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS:

• Tuesday, May 6th - Lunch 'N Learn: "Counting With Purpose: A mystical journey through the Omer count" with Rabbi Yosef Cohen. RSVP at Chabaduptown.org/lunch
• Thursdays, May 8-22 at 10:30am - Mommy and Me with Chanale Cohen - Nurturing and engaging program designed for mothers and babies (newborn to 2 years) to learn, play, and connect in a warm Jewish environment. - www.chabaduptown.org/mommy
• Friday, May 16 at 7:30 pm - Join us for an engaging Community-themed Shabbat Dinner with an extra dose of meaning and connection! RSVP at www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner
• Sunday, May 18 at 6:30 pm - Pre-Shavuot Women's Babka Bake - Master the art of baking babka and other treats! Reserve at www.chabaduptown.org/babka
• Sunday, June 1 at 11:30 pm - All Night Learn-A-Thon - featuring a lineup of Torah talks on many Jewish subjects!
• Monday, June 2 at 11:15am - Hear the 10 Commandments read on their 3,337th anniversary, followed by our annual Dairy Kiddush & Ice Cream party! Fun-filled Children's Program! More info at www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule
• Tuesday, June 3 at 11:45am - Yizkor Memorial Service

UPCOMING YJP EVENTS:

• Friday, May 2 at 7:30pm - YJP First Fridays - Cinco De Shabbat- Mexican Themed Shabbat Dinner for Young Jewish Professionals. www.yjphouston.org/fiesta
• Wednesday, May 7 at 8:00 pm - Dinner, Class & Social with Chanie
• Wed-Sun., May 7-11 - CYP Encounter Guatemala - Join us for an adventurous weekend of nature, soulfulness, and connection with fellow young Jewish professionals. www.chabadyoung.com/gua 
• Four Wednesdays, May 14-June 4 - CYP Academy Worrier to Warrior: The Chassidic Approach to Overcoming Emotional Hurdles. Ever feel like life throws a little too much your way sometimes? Worrier to Warrior is a powerful new course that offers practical tools and timeless Jewish wisdom to help you navigate those inner battles, tap into your soul’s strength, and face challenges with more clarity, calm, and confidence. Build that emotional toolbox—you’ll be glad you did. REGISTER: www.yjphouston.org/warrior
• Thursday, May 15 at 8pm - Lag Ba'omer Steakhouse - Experience the mystical Jewish Holiday with mouthwatering steaks, fire pit and s’mores, open bar and music. RSVP at www.yjphouston.org/steaks 
• Thursday, May 22, 7:30 pm - Third Thursdays Happy Hour - Location TBA
• Thursday, May 29 at 8 pm  - Met@Chabad Speeddating- www.metatchabad.com/speeddating
• Wed.-Thurs., July 2-10 - CYP Israel Volunteer Trip - Meaningful, memorable and amazing volunteering trip to Israel this summer, eligible ages 18-50 —and the price is insane - as low at $599! www.yjphouston.org/israeltrip

SHABBOS PARSHAS TAZRIA-METZORA

FRIDAY, MAY 2, IYAR 4
7:30 Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat
7:42 Shabbos Candle Lighting
Count Omer 20
8:30 pm RSVP for Cinco de Shabbat - First Fridays Dinner  www.yjphouston.org/fiesta

SHABBOS, MAY 3, IYAR 5
9:00 am Chassidus
10:00 am Morning Services
Shabbos Lunch Kiddush sponsored by Yocheved Shwarzman marking the yartzeit of her husband, Yitzchak ben Asher Zelig, a"h
7:40 pm Mincha
Study of Pirkei Avos Ch. 2
8:38 pm Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbat Ends
Count Omer 21
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