Updates

As we move beyond the solemn observance of Tisha B'av yesterday and embrace this Shabbos, the comforting Shabbos Nachamu, we find solace in our relationship with Hashem that endures through all trials and tribulations.

In the days leading up to Tisha B'av, we reflected on the destruction of the Beis Hamikdash and the challenges our ancestors faced. We understood that our actions and choices have consequences, and yet, amidst the darkness, there was a glimmer of hope - the cherubim atop the Holy Ark.

These cherubim symbolized the bond between Hashem and the Jewish people. When we pleased Hashem, they faced each other, symbolizing unity and harmony. But when we strayed and sinned, they turned away, signifying a temporary rupture in our connection.

However, an incredible revelation unfolded during the Temple's destruction. The Babylonians, convinced that their actions were justified due to our transgressions, entered the Kodesh Hakadoshim, the Holy of Holies, only to be astounded. The cherubim, instead of turning away, were locked in an embrace, radiating Hashem's boundless love and unwavering commitment to His people.

In this moment of profound vulnerability and pain, we discovered that even at our lowest ebb, Hashem does not abandon us. He lovingly embraces us, awaiting our return to the right path.

As we now bask in the comforting embrace of Shabbos Nachamu, we carry this eternal message in our hearts. Our days of mourning have passed, and we look toward a brighter future, knowing that the anniversary of Tisha B'av also marks the birth of Moshiach, the redeemer of the Jewish people. Our sages have taught us that even before the destruction, a remedy was already in place.

Let us draw strength from this revelation and transform our sadness into joy and celebration. Together, united as one, let us envision the coming of Moshiach and the rebuilding of the Temple, for the divine love and compassion surrounding us are boundless. May the comforting embrace of the cherubim inspire us to strengthen our connection with each other and with Hashem, and may we merit witnessing the fulfillment of the divine promise of redemption.

Good Shabbos and a meaningful Shabbos Nachamu to all.

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Wed. Aug 2 - The White Party - Tu B'av with Comedian Ami Kozak www.yjphouston.org/kozak. Join Houston Young Jewish Professionals for an unforgettable night of laughter, networking, and summer vibes! Dress in your finest white cocktail attire and get ready for a night to remember.
• Friday, August 4 - August First Fridays Shabbat Dinner - Enjoy breakfast for dinner with other Young Jewish Professionals ages 21-39 over Shabbat Dinner including Smoked Salmon, Frittata, Spinach Fruit Salad & Granola, Dips, Hearty Chicken & Matzah Ball Soups, Chicken & Waffles, Hamburger Hash, Roasted Veggies, Mimosas, and much more! - RSVP
• Tuesday, August 8, 12 pm - Lunch & Learn: The Attitude of Gratitude - Integrating happiness into our daily lives - RSVP
• August 9-13 National Jewish Retreat, Palm Springs, CA www.jretreat.com

SAVE THE DATES:

• Fri.-Sun., Sept 15-17 - Rosh Hashana Services, Dinners and Luncheons
• Sun-Mon, Sept 24-25 - Yom Kippur Services and Break Fast
• Fri.-Sun., Sept. 29-Oct. 1 - Sukkos Services & Dinner Under the Stars
• Wed. Oct 4 - YJP Sukkos Party
• Fri.-Sun., Oct. 6-8 - Simchas Torah

Shabbos Nachamu Parshas V'Eschanan

Friday, July 28,  10 Av
Services at 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting at 7:59 pm
RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner

Shabbos, July 29, 11 Av
Chassidus at 9 am
Services at 10 am
Followed by Shabbos Lunch Kiddush & Farbrengen
Study of Rebbe Teachings 6:30 pm
Mincha at 8:00 pm
Pirkei Avot Chapter 3
Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbos ends at 8:56 pm
Living Torah

Sunday, July 30, 12 Av
Shacharis at 8:00 am

Mon.-Fri., July 31-Aug. 1-4, 13-17 Av
Shacharis at 6:45 am

Good Shabbos!

One of Moses’ most important acts in his final days was translating the entire Torah into 70 languages. Although the Jewish people at the time had no need for translations, Moses foresaw the Diaspora and knew that without translation Torah would be lost.

But it couldn’t be left to future generations to determine when and how to translate it; Moses recognized that in order for the translation to be valid and accurate, it had to contain the same holiness as the Torah itself, in its original language. In other words, it had to be translated by Moses himself, the author of the Torah and the only human who knew precisely the true meaning of every word.

Even though we don’t have his original translations, and even though the languages we speak today may not have even been around back then, in his final days, Moses was making the Torah accessible and relevant to us, so that we are able to study it, wherever we are, in any language, and apply it to our circumstances.

We hope and pray that we will very soon be able to hear a revelation of the deepest components of Torah, in all languages, taught to us by Moshiach, with the upcoming redemption!

Good Shabbos,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie

The Shabbat before the Ninth of Av is called Shabbat Chazon ("Shabbat of Vision") after the opening words of the day's reading from the prophets ("haftara"), which is the third of the series of readings known as "The Three of Rebuke." On this Shabbat, say the Chassidic masters, we are granted a vision of the Third Temple; we may not see it with our physical eyes, but our souls see it, and are empowered to break free of our present state of galut (exile and spiritual displacement) and bring about the Redemption and the rebuilding of the Temple. Links: The Holy Temple: an Anthology, Shabbat of Vision, About the "Three of Rebuke", http://www.thethreeweeks.com

STUDY TORAH WITH US!

On Wednesday nights at 8 pm, YJP join 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! 

On Thursday nights at 8 pm, all ages are welcome to join us for a Torah class on how to conquer anxiety and discover inner peace with our empowering class on the study of Sha'ar Habitachon (Gate of Trust). This classic text by Rabbeinu Bachya ben Yosef ibn Paquda takes us on a transformational journey towards genuine trust, guiding us to a state of tranquil reliance on the all-powerful and compassionate G-d. Studying this vital work shows us how to confront and even transform unpredictable and challenging events by exercising and implementing the messages of genuine unyielding trust in G-d. Reply to this email if you would like to join the class!

This coming Wednesday & Thursday, July 26-27, there will not be class in observance of Tisha B'Av. Schedule below.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Wed. Aug 2 - The White Party - Tu B'av with Comedian Ami Kozak www.yjphouston.org/kozak. Join Houston Young Jewish Professionals for an unforgettable night of laughter, networking, and summer vibes! Dress in your finest white cocktail attire and get ready for a night to remember.
• Friday, August 4 - August First Fridays Shabbat Dinner - Join Young Jewish Professionals, ages 21-39, over Shabbat Dinner - RSVP
• August 8-13 National Jewish Retreat, Palm Springs, CA www.jretreat.com

Shabbos Chazon Parshas Devarim & Tisha B'Av

Friday, July 21, 3 Av
Services at 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting at 8:03 pm
RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner

Shabbos, July 22, 4 Av
Chassidus at 9 am
Services at 10 am
Followed by Shabbos Lunch Kiddush & Farbrengen
Study of Rebbe Teachings 6:30 pm
Mincha at 8:00 pm
Pirkei Avot Chapter 2
Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbos ends at 9:00 pm
Living Torah

Sunday, July 23, 5 Av
Shacharis at 8:00 am

Mon.-Tues. July 24-5, 6-7 Av
Shacharis at 6:45 am

Wednesday, July 26, Erev Tisha B'Av
Shacharis at 6:45 am
Refrain from general Torah Study at 1:28 pm
Seudah Hafsekes, egg dipped in ashes.
Fast Begins 8:19 pm
Refrain from eating and drinking, bathing, wearing of leather footwear, and marital relations
Maariv at 8:45 pm
Followed by Reading of Eicha

Thursday, July 27, Tisha B'Av
Ritual wash (negel vasser) only to knuckles
Shacharis at 6:45 am
Special Torah Reading
No Tallis and Tefillin at Shacharis
Reading of Kinos - Lamentations
Sitting on low seats until 1:28 pm
Mincha with Tallis & Tefillin and Torah Reading at 7:30 pm
Maariv, Kiddush Levana & Fast Ends at 8:45 pm
Haircuts and laundering clothes may be done tonight in honor of Shabbos. Other nine day mourning practices continue.

Friday, July 28, 10 Av
Shacharis at 6:45 am
1:28 pm Other nine day mourning practices cease (i.e. meat and wine, music, recreational bathing)

Good Shabbos!

This week brought us to Aspen... Amidst the picturesque scenery and the warm embrace of the Weisbergs and the local Aspen Chabad JCC, we were reminded of the words, "Mah rabu maasecha Hashem," meaning "How great are Your works, Hashem." Whether exploring the Grottos trail and Ice Cave, hiking the awe-inspiring Maroon Bells, kayaking down the Roaring Fork River fed by snow melt, and soaring to an elevation of 11,200 ft in gondolas, we witnessed the breathtaking beauty of nature, filling us with awe and humility in the presence of the Creator. In a strike of perfect Hashgocha Protis, divine providence, we also bumped into random good friends from Houston, while strolling through town!

We remembered that this week Parsha describes the Jewish people's journey through the desert has 42 encampments. Rather than describe them as mere stops or stations, the Torah refers to them as journeys. This distinction offers valuable insights for our own lives.

A station implies reaching a destination, completing a trip. However, each of the 42 stops our ancestors made was a journey in itself. By embracing the concept of a journey, we recognize that there is always more work to be done. While we may achieve goals along the way, we should never become complacent or satisfied.

Just as the Jews understood that each station was a step towards the ultimate destination of the Land of Israel, we too should maintain the motivation to keep going. We mustn't settle for our daily accomplishments alone, as our true journey in life continues. As we navigate our own paths, let's remain mindful of the broader journey and the work that lies ahead. Together, we can embrace the challenges, celebrate accomplishments, and move closer to our collective destination.

It's essential to remember that our personal journeys will only be fulfilled with the arrival of Moshiach and the rebuilding of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. Let us eagerly anticipate that moment, and may it happen swiftly in our times!

Good Shabbos,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Wed. Aug 2 - The White Party - Tu B'av with Comedian Ami Kozak www.yjphouston.org/kozak. HURRY expires soon! Use coupon "flashsale" for $20(!) off!
• August 8-13 National Jewish Retreat, Palm Springs, CA www.jretreat.com

Mazel tov Matti and Rachel Minchen and the entire Minchen family on the birth of a baby boy!

Shabbos Mevarchim Av Parshas Matos-Maasei

Friday, July 14, 25 Tammuz
Services at 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting at 8:06
RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner

Shabbos, July 15, 26 Tammuz
Shabbos Mevarchim Tehillim at 8:30 am
Services at 10 am
Followed by Shabbos Mevarchim Lunch Kiddush & Farbrengen
Study of Rebbe Teachings 6:30 pm
Mincha at 8:00 pm
Pirkei Avot Chapter 1
Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbos ends at 9:04 pm
Living Torah

Sunday, July 16, 27 Tammuz
Shacharis at 8:00 am

Mon., July 17, 28 Tammuz
Shacharis at 6:45 pm
followed by breakfast marking the yartzeit and in memory of Yonatan ben Rafael Halevi Levy, sponsored by the Melnik and Shamooelian families

Tues.-Fri. July 18-21, 29 Tammuz-3 Av
Shacharis at 6:45 am

Wednesday, July 19, Rosh Chodesh Av
Rosh Chodesh Shacharis at 6:45 am
followed by monthly breakfast

Good Shabbos!

I want to thank each and every one of you who shared good wishes on Facebook and otherwise in honor of my July 4th birthDATE. My real birthDAY, however, is this Shabbos Tammuz 19. As is customary among Chabad Chasidim, the Shabbos lunch kiddush will also be a birthday " farbrengen" in honor of my birthday. I fully understand if your schedule does not allow you to attend. Please let me know if you can make it.

As I celebrate my birthday, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the community for your unwavering support and love. May you all be blessed with abundance, joy, and fulfillment in every aspect of your lives. May our bonds grow stronger, and may we continue to uplift and inspire one another on our respective journeys. Together, let us create a future filled with kindness, compassion, and unity. Thank you for being a part of my life and making this birthday truly special.

Rabbi Chaim

Do you know when YOUR Jewish birthday is? Use our Jewish birthday calculator and read more about celebrating birthdays:  What is a Jewish Birthday? and related articles there.

A THOUGHT FOR SHABBOS
The Jewish calendar includes several significant fast days, many of which commemorate various tragic events from our history. Among them is the observance of the 17th of Tammuz, that was observed yesterday, Thursday. This day holds great historical significance, as it marks the breaking of the first set of Tablets by Moses and the breaching of the walls of Jerusalem before the destruction of the second Temple. The 17th of Tammuz also marks the beginning of a three-week period of mourning in the Jewish calendar. This period, known as the Three Weeks, extends until the 9th of Av and commemorates the destruction of both the first and second Temples in Jerusalem.

During this solemn period, Jews reflect on the tragedies and hardships endured by our ancestors. It is a time of introspection, as we contemplate the causes that led to these calamities and strive to rectify our actions and relationships. The Three Weeks serve as a reminder of the importance of unity, kindness, and spiritual growth within our community.

While these weeks are filled with solemnity, they also carry a message of hope. They remind us that even in times of despair, there is the potential for redemption and renewal. It is through our collective efforts and dedication to improving ourselves and our world that we can pave the way for a brighter future.

During these three weeks, let us not only remember the past but also use this time to engage in acts of kindness, charity, and self-reflection. May our collective prayers and efforts bring us closer to the day when sadness will be replaced with joy and mourning will transform into celebration, with the coming of Moshiach, now!

Good Shabbos,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• July 7 All American BBQ July First Fridays Shabbat Dinner www.yjphouston.org/shabbatusa
• July 12-16 CYP Encounter to Mexico City www.chabadyoung.com/mexico, Montauk, NY www.chabadyoung.com/montauk or Los Angeles www.chabadyoung.com/la
• Wed. Aug 2 - The White Party - Tu B'av with Comedian Ami Kozak www.yjphouston.org/kozak. HURRY! Use coupon "flashsale" for $20(!) off!
• August 8-13 National Jewish Retreat, Palm Springs, CA www.jretreat.com

Shabbos Parshas Pinchas

Friday, July 7, 18 Tammuz
Services at 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting at 8:08 pm
RSVP for All American July First Fridays Shabbat Dinner www.yjphouston.org/shabbatusa

Shabbos, July 8, 19 Tammuz
Chassidus at 9:00 am
Services at 10 am
Followed by Shabbos Lunch Kiddush & Farbrengen in honor of Rabbi Chaim's birthday
Study of Rebbe Teachings 6:30 pm
Mincha at 8:05 pm
Pirkei Avot Chapter 6
Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbos ends at 9:06 pm
Living Torah

Sunday, July 9, 20 Tammuz
Shacharis at 8:00 am

Mon.-Fri. July 10-14, 21-25 Tammuz
Shacharis at 6:45 am

Good Shabbos!