Updates

This story is amazing.

Levi's Yeshivah in Monsey went for a hike on Bear Mountain last week. One of his friends brought along tefillin in case they find a Jew who needs to put on tefillin. They asked many, and turned up with no Jewish customers. Finally they encountered an elderly gentleman who shared that he was Jewish but declined to put on tefillin. Not taking no for an answer, Levi's friend explained to him that if he put on tefillin he would be the first to put on tefillin on the mountain that day and would elevate the entire environment. He acquiesced and agreed to get wrapped up. Upon concluding, the teacher walked up and asked the man his name. He said his name is Bill Lang and he was a "karkafta", his first time putting on tefillin in his life! The boys excitedly told him that the boy who helped you put on tefillin, his name is Moshe Lang! Moshe Lang? "My father's name was Moshe Lang"...

The Jewish people were allowed by Hashem to send scouts to check out the land. In our Parsha, Shelach, we are taught how instead of being scouts and checking how to enter the land they became spies to see if they can enter the land. This was their big failure that caused the Jews to have to wander in the desert for 40 years.... If they had only realized that stepping down was not an option, they would have stepped up and not taken no for an answer. Perhaps they could have learned a lesson from Levi's classmates and made the mountains a holy place for Hashem. 

May we all succeed in stepping up to the challenge to transform our environment for the good, making it a spiritual home for Hashem to reside.

Shabbat shalom,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie

P.S. The White Party committee had a very productive meeting this week! This annual event for Jewish Young Professionals in their 20s and 30s is one not to miss! Get ready for some jaw dropping entertainment and business networking in your summer white cocktail attire! Tickets drop July 3! Save the date for Thursday, Aug. 11 at 7:30 pm.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Met at Chabad Virtual Speeddating (06.23.22) - Values based and commitment focused speeddating using advanced AI. www.metatachabad.com/speedating
• Friday, July 1, 7:30 pm - All American BBQ - First Fridays - All American Themed BBQ Shabbat Dinner at YJPHouston - where spirits run high! www.yjphouston.org/bbqshabbat
• Game Night Shabbat (08.05.22) - Game themed Shabbat dinner and interactive games throughout the night.
• Thursday, August 11 - Tu B'Av The White Party - Join us for the annual party of the year in summer white cocktail attire for an evening of entertainment and fun on this special holiday of Tu B'Av! Check out these 2019 preCovid photos!
• Blood Drive (08.14.22) - Donate blood and save a life as we host a blood drive at Chabad of Uptown! Click here to reserve your spot!
• August 18-21  - YJP Encounter with Panama City!  An adventurous weekend of nature, soulfulness, and connection with fellow young Jewish professionals. LIMITED SPACE. www.yjphouston.org/panama

Shabbos Mevarchim Tammuz Parshas Shelach
Friday, June 24, Sivan 24
Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat Services 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting 8:08 pm
RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner

Shabbos, June 25, Sivan 25
Shabbos Mevarchim Tehillim at 8:30 am
Morning Service 10:00 am
Followed by Shabbos Mevarchim Kiddush and Farbrengen
Mincha Service 8:05 pm
Ethics of our Fathers Ch. 3
Maariv Havdalla and Shabbos Ends 9:07 pm
Living Torah

Sunday, June 26, Sivan 27 - Shacharis at 8:00 am
Mon.-Fri.., June 27-July 2, Sivan 28-Tammuz 2 - Shacharis at 6:45 am
Rosh Chodesh Tammuz and monthly breakfasts June 29-30 at 6:45 am

Good Shabbos!

The end of this week’s Torah portion describes Moses’ most admired quality: “He was exceedingly humble, more so than any person on the face of the earth.”

Humility does not mean allowing yourself to be trampled or stepped on; humility does not mean ignoring your capabilities and pretending you don’t have them; and humility is certainly not an excuse to escape responsibility.

A humble person is firm in his or her convictions, and promotes them in the most sensitive manner possible. Humble people recognize their G‑d-given capabilities and employ them to benefit others, sharing everything they possess with the world around them. The most effective leaders are, by far, always the most humble. They are not in it for themselves but for the greater good.

Be like Moses and recognize that the world is G‑d’s beautiful tapestry, waiting for us to play our part in revealing its beauty and sharing it with the world. Do a mitzvah, smile, and believe in yourself and also the world around you. That is how we will make a real difference even in the darkest times—may they become bright and shine once again with the coming of Moshiach!

Shabbat shalom,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie

Mazel tov Ariel Jacobson on his Bar Mitzvah and we look forward to celebrating this Shabbos with the entire family!

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Met at Chabad Virtual Speeddating (06.23.22) - Values based and commitment focused speeddating using advanced AI. www.metatachabad.com/speedating
• Friday, July 1, 7:30 pm - All American BBQ - First Fridays - All American Themed BBQ Shabbat Dinner at YJPHouston - where spirits run high!
• Game Night Shabbat (08.05.22) - Game themed Shabbat dinner and interactive games throughout the night.
• Thursday, August 11 - Tu B'Av The White Party - Join us for the annual party of the year in summer white cocktail attire for an evening of entertainment and fun on this special holiday of Tu B'Av! Check out these 2019 preCovid photos!
• Blood Drive (08.14.22) - Donate blood and save a life with YJP Houston
• August 18-21  - YJP Encounter with Panama City!  An adventurous weekend of nature, soulfulness, and connection with fellow young Jewish professionals. LIMITED SPACE. Reply to this email for more info!

Shabbos Parshas Beha'alosecha
Friday, June 17, Sivan 18
Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat Services 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting 8:06 pm
RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner

Shabbos, June 18, Sivan 19
Chassidus at 9 am
Morning Service 10:00 am
Followed by lunch Kiddush in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Ariel Jacobson!
Mincha Service 8:05 pm
Ethics of our Fathers Ch. 2
Maariv Havdalla and Shabbos Ends 9:06 pm
Living Torah

Sunday, June 19, Sivan 20 - Shacharis at 8:00 am
Mon.-Fri.., June 20-24, Sivan 21-25 - Shacharis at 6:45 am

Good Shabbos!

What an amazing Shavuos weekend, with a packed shul and many amazing talks that wrapped up a very inspiring weekend with hundreds in attendance! Thank you to the Rabbi Lev Yakov and Talia Voskboynik and all the sponsors for making it happen!

Rabbi Chaim made a quick trip last night to celebrate the wedding of the daughter of his study partner from the age of 12, Rabbi Moshe Gourarie. Many call the relationship like one of  brothers (from another mother). On the way back the taxi driver was describing how his recent working of the Crown Heights neighborhood has made him take a liking for the "yids". "Wait are you Jewish?". "Of course I am. I guess I need to get a black hat so you would know that". "No, its just you call them the yids like they are some other group, let's call them my fellow yids, my brothers and sisters". "You know, I love that about the Rebbe and Chabad, the love for everyone, all Jews and all of humanity is so amazing". Don't focus on what others are or aren't doing, they focus on how to help each person develop a special connection to G‑d. Of course, we made sure to have him wrapped up with tefillin right there at LGA departures. He sure got a kick out of the Texas style tefillin bags and even took a pic to show his friend.

Not by chance, this is all coming on the heels of Shavuot, when we celebrate receiving the Torah and we had a short week to catch up on the longest reading in the entire Torah, Parshas Naso.

One of the reasons the portion is so long is because it contains a detailed description of the gifts brought by the leaders of the tribes to dedicate the altar in the desert. Twelve tribes and twelve leaders; that takes up a nice chunk of real estate. But here's the thing: All twelve leaders brought the exact same gifts, yet the Torah still details each offering as if it was unique to that individual.

This serves as an important reminder that the service of every Jew is important, even if everyone else is doing the exact same thing. This is especially significant when praying and reciting the exact same words as everyone else. Whether is tefillin, lighting Shabbat candles or davening in Shul, the words and the offerings may be the same, but G‑d still views each one as unique and deserving of special recognition.

Don't focus on what others are or aren't doing, focus on your own special connection to G‑d.

Good Shabbos!

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie

Mazel tov Flavio and Leila Nisenbaum on the birth of a granddaughter!

SAVE THE DATES!

• First Fridays July 1 and August 5, 7:30 pm - Shabbat Dinner with YJP Houston
• Thursday, August 11 - Tu B'Av The White Party - Join us for the annual party of the year in summer white cocktail attire for an evening of entertainment and fun on this special holiday of Tu B'Av! Check out these 2019 preCovid photos!
• August 18-21  - YJP Encounter with Panama City!  An adventurous weekend of nature, soulfulness, and connection with fellow young Jewish professionals. LIMITED SPACE. Reply to this email for more info!

Shabbos Parshas Naso
Friday, June 10, Sivan 11
Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat Services 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting 8:04 pm
RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner

Shabbos, June 11, Sivan 12
Chassidus at 9 am
Morning Service 10:00 am
Followed by lunch Kiddush
Mincha Service 8:05 pm
Ethics of our Fathers Ch. 1
Maariv Havdalla and Shabbos Ends 9:03 pm
Kiddush Levana
Living Torah

Sunday, June 12, Sivan 13 - Shacharis at 8:00 am
Mon.-Fri.., June 13-17, Sivan 14-18 - Shacharis at 6:45 am

Good Shabbos!

The holiday of Shavuot marks the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai. Although that event technically occurred 3,334 years ago, we don't simply commemorate it as a historical event.

Each year, when we stand in the synagogue listening to the Ten Commandments being read on Shavuot, we recommit to living a life according to G‑d's Will. We commit to being a light unto the nations, with the goal of making the world a better and more G‑dly place.

Today more than ever, the world needs the Torah’s light and guidance to help us navigate the darkness that all too often rears its evil head.

Teaching our children about their G-dly essence, the importance of being there for others, and training them to be selfless rather than self-absorbed is how we can ensure a brighter future for all of mankind.

Shabbat shalom and chag same'ach!

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie

This past Sunday and Monday, the 50th anniversary of Chabad Lubavitch of Texas was celebrated with a Farbrengen gathering of close to 200 men, women and children, of the Texas Shluchim families. The Shluchim (emissaries), representing the 58 couples – 116 community leaders – and their families, serve 37 branches around Texas, each comprising multiple organizations and programs. Chabad of Texas was founded with the arrival of Rabbi Shimon & Chiena Lazaroff on 25 Iyar, 5732 / May 9 1972 as one of the 71 new institutions established that year for the Rebbe's 70th birthday. Check out the highlight photos here

SHAVUOS WEEKEND JUNE 3-6: Join us this weekend for an awesome Shavuos, including tonight's YJP June First Fridays, Saturday all night learning and Sunday Ten Commandments followed by elaborate dairy Kiddush.

We will have the honor to host Lev Yakov and Talia (Lewis) Voskoboynik over the weekend for many talks and Torah classes! Lev Yakov is an experienced Yeshivah educator and Talia is a Texas A&M Graduate with a Masters in Accounting.

We thank our partial sponsors:

• Rafi Benjaminov and family in honor of the first yartzeit of his father Amnon ben Tova, obm. 
• Andrew & Elyse Goldstein in memory of her mother, Shandl Miriam bas Esther, a"h

We are still looking for some more sponsors to help cover the costs of kiddush, speakers etc. www.chabaduptown.org/donate. You can also use cashapp, venmo or paypal: @chabaduptown zelle: [email protected]

JEPShavuot - Torah Ideas Worth SpreadingFor over 3000 years Jews have been studying and expounding the wisdom of Torah. This Shavuot, add your voice to this unbroken narrative. Come present your Torah Ideas Worth Sharing

Saturday Night, June 4, 2022
11:30 pm-All Night
Light Refreshments | Free Admission

שיעורים בעברית
סודות שבועות בפרשת המספרים - במדבר
זיו מסילתי

דבר קטן אמת
עומר נחמיה

אוצרות מתנת חינם
רפי בנימיניוו

Why the Torah was Given in a Desert
Bluma Lazaroff, TDS 5th Grade

Location, Location, Location: Where you are matters!
Bonnie Pfrenger, Commercial Realtor

Happy anniversary- time to reconnect and reflect
Chanie Lazaroff, Chabad of Uptown

Honor and dishonor: Who are we really honoring?
Jessica Pfrenger, Premed Student

How To Attain True Emotional and Spiritual Freedom Never Worry Again!
Lev Yakov Voskoboynik, Yeshivah Educator & Mentor

The Story of Rus
Menucha Lazaroff, TDS 2nd Grade

The Engineering of the Jewish Body
Nina Pfrenger, TAMU Mechanical Engineering Student

Social Learning: Is Big Brother Watching? Torah Perspective for Privacy in Modern Society
Rabbi Chaim Lazaroff, Chabad of Uptown

The Utterances for an Eternity
Sara Matar, Judicial Law Clerk

The Art of Listening
Solomon Berezin, Holistic Health Coach

Is the Torah Still Relevant Today? Keep Living a Life of Inspiration
Talia Voskoboynik, TAMU Graduate, Masters in Accounting

Shavuos Secrets of the Parshah of Numbers - Bamidbar
Ziv Mesilaty, Personal Trainer

Shabbos Parshas Bamidbar and Shavuos
Shavuot Shabbaton Weekend with Rabbi Lev Yakov and Talia Voskoboynik
Sponsored in part by Rafi Benjaminov & Family in honor of the first yartzeit of his father Amnon ben Tova, a"h
> Mobile Friendly Shavuos RSVP Form <

Friday, June 3, Sivan 4
7:30 pm Mincha Services
8:01 pm Shabbat candle lighting
RSVP Required for June First Fridays Shabbos Dinner www.yjphouston.org/talia
Talia: What Getting a Masters Degree Can Teach You About Being a Proud Jew
Talia's Personal Journey in Rediscovering Her True Self

Shabbos, June 4, Sivan 5
9:00 pm Chassidus
10:00 am Shacharis
Followed by Lunch Kiddush
8:00 pm Shabbat Afternoon & Evening Holiday Services 
AFTER 9:00 pm Light Yom Tov Candles
11:30 pm All Night Learn-A-Thon
Lineup of Torah talks on many Jewish subjects! 
Lev Yakov: How To Attain True Emotional and Spiritual Freedom Never Worry Again!
Talia: Is the Torah Still Relevant Today? Keep Living a Life of Inspiration
Many more talks as listed on www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule

Sunday, June 5, Sivan 6
10:00 am Morning Services
* 11am-1pm Special childrens' service w/ games, activities and more!
11:15 am Reading of Ten Commandments & Party
followed by 1 pm dairy kiddush & ice cream party!
Lev Yakov: From Tennis Star to Yeshiva Student
The Life Changing Story of a Nationally Ranked Tennis Player to A Chabad Rabbi
8:00 pm Mincha & Maariv Holiday Services
After 9:00 pm* Light Yom Tov Candles
* From a pre-existing flame.

Monday, June 6, Sivan 7
10:00 am Morning Services
- 11:45 am approx. Yizkor Memorial Service
8:00 pm Mincha Services
9:01 pm Maariv, Havdalla & Yom Tov Ends 

> Mobile Friendly Shavuos RSVP Form <

Have a Good Shabbos!

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

June Events

Shavuot Baking | First Fridays | All Night Learning | 10 Commandments & Dairy Lunch | Lag B'omer Photo Gallery | White Party | Panama Trip

Wednesdays, 8:00 pm - Dinner, Class & Social
Wednesday In Person Classes are Back! 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! 

TONIGHT: Wednesday, June 1, 8 pm Shavuot Treats & Eats Cooking Club
Make your Shavuot Garlic Knots and other treats while we discuss what's behind the custom of eating dairy products on Shavuot? Is there a connection between the giving of the Torah at Mt Sinai and eating milk products - RSVP

 Friday, June 3, 7:30 pm - Talia's Journey - June First Fridays
Kick off the Shavuot weekend with an evening with other Young Jewish Professionals over Shabbat Dinner and guest speaker Texas A&M Graduate Talia Lewis Voskoboynik!  Services at 7:30 pm Shabbat Candle Lighting: 8:01, Shabbat Dinner 8:30 PM, $18 until Thursday, $25 after Use promo code: advance  RSVP HERE.

Saturday Night, June 4, 11:30 pm - Shavuot - All Night Torah Study
This Shavuot, add your voice to this unbroken narrative. Come listen to and you like you can event present your own Torah Ideas Worth Sharing
Check out the growing list of talks here! RSVP for free here.

10 Commandments & Shavuot Dairy Buffet Lunch & Ice Cream Party
Hear the 10 Commandments followed by a Delicious Dairy lunch! Featuring a fabulous assortment of Ice Cream, cheesecakes, blintzes, pasta and salad Non Dairy and Gluten Free Options Served. Guest Speaker Rabbi Lev Yakov: FROM TENNIS STAR TO YESHIVA STUDENT, The Life Changing Story of a Nationally Ranked Tennis Player to A Chabad Rabbi. RSVP for free here!

Lag B'omer Jamming Night in Photos!
In May, YJP Houston gathered for an awesome outdoor evening of Lag B’Omer with fellow young professionals performing their musical talents over artisan BBQ, spiked ice cream and roasted marshmallows. Check out the photo gallery here!

SAVE THE AUGUST DATES!
Thursday, August 11 - Tu B'Av The White Party
Join us for the annual party of the year in summer white cocktail attire for an evening of entertainment and fun on this special holiday of Tu B'Av! Check out these 2019 preCovid photos!

August 18-21  - YJP Encounter with Panama City!  
An adventurous weekend of nature, soulfulness, and connection with fellow young Jewish professionals. LIMITED SPACE. Reply to this email for more info!

Sadly, the feeling is all-too familiar.

We stare at the news reports in disbelief, unable to comprehend how a human mind is tortured into wanting to harm innocent school children. We crave a panacea that will soothe the searing pain and unfairness of it all, but all words ring hollow.

And so we cry, we pray, we grieve, and we channel our angst into concrete action to make the world a more loving, safer, and better place for us all.

We find solace in sharing the pain with others, knowing that we are not alone. And we empower one another to create a world where every young person is educated to have a sense of accountability to a Higher Power, to develop their innate morality and kindness.

The same morning of the event in Uvalde, we were invited by Precinct 4 Commissioner R. Jack Cagle's Office to open with an invocation for the May 24th meeting at the Harris County Commissioners Court, with County Judge Lina Hidalgo, Rodney Ellis, Tom Ramsey, Adrian Garcia.

The prayer shared perhaps would set the stage for the day to follow.

Rabbi Chaim shared "the famous Chassidic adage [that] goes 'One must strive that today should be far better than yesterday and that tomorrow should look much better than today.'

"Please G-d, give strength to our elected officials to be cognizant of Your presence and conduct their deliberations accordingly. That they have the ability to elevate the quality of life for everyone in our region and to be an inspiration to us all to make our days count. That we truly care for our peers, for society, our environment and work together to make our world a better place for all.

"May our borderland region serve as a beacon of light, strength and moral courage as we do our part in preparing the world for an era of global peace and tranquility. May this occur speedily in our times."  (Video replay and transcript of the complete prayer and requested follow up comments here.)

Join us in praying for the day when G‑d will “wipe away the tears from upon all faces” and peace and harmony will reign.

With wishes for a peaceful and good Shabbos,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie

Congratulations to our 16th graduating class of Mental Health First Aid! This brings our efforts to 263 total successful graduating students!  After a two year break of virtual only, in person courses are back! 9 more members of our community making a difference to be a positive influence and save lives. Thank you Jewish Family Service of Houston for your partnership!

LAG BOMER PHOTOS: We are so sorry that the link to the Lag Bomer photos in last week's email was not active. We know you want to know what happened, so here it is!

Wed. June 1, 8 pm: Shavuos Treats and Eats Cooking Club! Prepare Shavuos garlic knots and other holiday treats while we discuss what's behind the custom of eating dairy products on Shavuot? Is there a connection between the giving of the Torah at Mt Sinai and eating milk products?

SHAVUOS WEEKEND JUNE 3-6: Join us next weekend for an awesome Shavuos, including June First Fridays, Saturday all night learning and Sunday Ten Commandments followed by elaborate dairy Kiddush. We will have the honor to host Lev Yakov and Talia (Lewis) Voskoboynik over the weekend for many talks and Torah classes! Lev Yakov is an experienced Yeshivah educator and Talia is a Texas A&M Graduate with a Masters in Accounting. Thank you Rafi Benjaminov and family for his partial sponsorship in honor of the first yartzeit of his father Amnon ben Tova, obm. Rafi has been so gracious to sponsor part of it, we are looking for some more sponsors to help cover the costs of kiddush, speakers etc. www.chabaduptown.org/donate. You can also use cashapp, venmo or paypal: @chabaduptown
zelle: [email protected]

Mazel tov Lindsay & Alexander Barsky on the birth of a baby boy!

Shabbos Mevarchim Sivan, Chazak, Parshas Bechukosai
Friday, May 27, Iyar 26
Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat Services 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting 7:57 pm
Omer Count
 RSVP for Shabbat Dinner

Shabbos, May 28, Iyar 27
Shabbos Mevarchim Tehillim at 8:30 am
Morning Service 10:00 am
Followed by lunch Kiddush
Mincha Service 7:55 pm
Maariv Havdalla and Shabbos Ends 8:56 pm
Omer Count
Living Torah

Sunday & Monday, May 29-30, Iyar 28-29 - 8:00 am
Tuesday, May 31, Rosh Chodesh Sivan - 6:45 am
Followed by monthly breakfast
Wed.-Fri., June 1-3, 2-4 Sivan - Shacharis at 6:45 am

Shavuot Shabbaton Weekend with Rabbi Lev Yakov and Talia Voskoboynik
Sponsored in part by Rafi Benjaminov & Family in honor of the first yartzeit of his father Amnon ben Tova, a"h
> Mobile Friendly Shavuos RSVP Form <

Friday, June 3
7:30 pm Mincha Services
8:01 pm Shabbat candle lighting
RSVP Required for June First Fridays Shabbos Dinner www.yjphouston.org/talia
Talia: What Getting a Masters Degree Can Teach You About Being a Proud Jew
Talia's Personal Journey in Rediscovering Her True Self

Shabbos, June 4
9:00 pm Chassidus
10:00 am Shacharis
Followed by Lunch Kiddush
8:00 pm Shabbat Afternoon & Evening Holiday Services 
AFTER 9:00 pm Light Yom Tov Candles
11:30 pm All Night Learn-A-Thon
Lineup of Torah talks on many Jewish subjects! 
Lev Yakov: How To Attain True Emotional and Spiritual Freedom Never Worry Again!
Talia: Is the Torah Still Relevant Today? Keep Living a Life of Inspiration

Sunday, June 5
10:00 am Morning Services
* 11am-1pm Special childrens' service w/ games, activities and more!
11:15 am Reading of Ten Commandments & Party
followed by 1 pm dairy kiddush & ice cream party!
Lev Yakov: From Tennis Star to Yeshiva Student
The Life Changing Story of a Nationally Ranked Tennis Player to A Chabad Rabbi
8:00 pm Mincha & Maariv Holiday Services
After 9:00 pm* Light Yom Tov Candles
* From a pre-existing flame.

Monday, June 6
10:00 am Morning Services
- 11:45 am approx. Yizkor Memorial Service
8:00 pm Mincha Services
9:01 pm Maariv, Havdalla & Yom Tov Ends 

> Mobile Friendly Shavuos RSVP Form <

Have a Good Shabbos!

This week saw two unique Jewish holidays, with important lessons for our lives. 1. Pesach Sheini, the second Passover, is the day that anyone who was unable to offer the Passover sacrifice at the appointed time was given an opportunity to do so a month later. The lesson there is that even when things seem lost, there can always be a second chance to correct the past. 2. Lag Baomer, the day we mark the passing of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, the talmudic sage who introduced the study of Jewish mysticism to the masses. This day reminds us to always study Torah with an eye on the esoteric. Dig past the surface, peel away the layers, and discover the true essence of the universe.

This week we also began the new cycle of the daily study of Rambam! In under five minutes a day you can learn through the 613 mitzvos and know them well! Check out the daily study section at www.chabaduptown.org/dailystudy.

The messages of these dates are eternal and apply even today, in 2022, and will continue being central to Jewish tradition, leading the way to the coming of Moshiach, very soon!

Shabbat shalom,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie

Always amazing to celebrate simchos with our YJP Houston community! This week we had the opportunity to attend two brisim in less than 18 hours! Mazal tov Dr. Ariel & Tiffany Ourian, it was awesome to be able to be with you in Los Angeles for the bris of Ayden Yeshaya!! We were then able to make it back in Houston in time for the next morning, less than 18 hours later, we for the bris of Adam to Tslil & Oded Tzur! To many more simchos by all! 

50 YEARS OF CHABAD: "If one in every three Jews in Houston has taken part, that's still not enough." Rabbi Chaim Lazaroff said. "There is still a high percent that hasn't. Our goal is to inspire you to be a better Jews today than you were yesterday". A complete section B of the Jewish Herald-Voice, put together on their own initiative, contains a 12-page Special Section honoring Chabad in Houston with lots of stories, photos and info. The lead story describes Chabad's 50-year Lone Star journey, here. Thank you to all of the staff at the JHV for all of your efforts for this week's paper and all year round for all you do for the Houston Jewish community! 

LAG BOMER IN PHOTOS: This Wednesday we had an awesome outdoor evening of Lag B’Omer with fellow young professionals performing their musical talents over artisan BBQ, spiked ice cream and roasted marshmallows. Thank you to our sponsors Joel and Debra Ruby!

SHAVUOS JUNE 3-6: Save the date for an awesome Shavuos weekend, including June First Fridays, Saturday all night learning and Sunday Ten Commandments followed by elaborate dairy Kiddush. . We will have the honor to host Lev Yakov and Talia (Lewis) Voskoboynik over the weekend for many talks and Torah classes! Lev Yakov is an experienced Yeshivah educator and Talia is a Texas A&M Graduate with a Masters in Accounting. Thank you Rafi Benjaminov and family for his sponsorship in honor of the first yartzeit of his father Amnon ben Tiva, obm

JLI course, Beyond Right - The Values that Shape Judaism's Civil Code! Its not too late to join the current ongoing course on Tuesday evenings 7:30- 9 pm at Chabad of Uptown, Lawyers get 9 CLE credits. Sign up here!

MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID: This is your last chance to sign up for the Mental Health First Aid course this Sunday, May 22, at Chabad of Uptown! Mental Health First Aid is a skills-based training course that teaches participants about mental health and substance-use issues. CEU credits available. Sign up here.

Shabbos Parshas Behar
Friday, May 20, Iyar 19
Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat Services 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting 7:53 pm
Omer Count
 RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner

Shabbos, May 21, Iyar 20
Chassidus at 9 am
Morning Service 10:00 am
Followed by lunch Kiddush
Mincha Service 7:50 pm
Maariv Havdalla and Shabbos Ends 8:51 pm
Omer Count
Living Torah

Sunday, May 22, Iyar 21 - 8:00 am
Monday-Friday, May 23-27, 22-26 Iyar- Shacharis at 6:45 am

Have a Good Shabbos!

They say that only 20% of students actually succeed and enjoy school. 20% are failing miserably and 60% are just plain tolerating it and are tolerated. Is there a way we can change that?

This week’s Torah portion opens with a reminder that in order to ensure Jewish continuity, there must be proper education. And in order for the education to be successful, it has to be more than just texts and indoctrination; adults and teachers must serve as living examples for their children and students and display a love for them where they are at.

Hillel says, "Be of the disciples of Aaron [the Kohen], loving peace and pursuing peace, loving the creatures and bringing them closer to Torah."

The context in our Parsha of this reminder is regarding the Kohanim, the priests who served in the Temple. They are required to follow a strict set of rules pertaining to ritual purity, and they must also ensure that their children learn these laws and are prepared to follow them once they come of age. They accomplished this by displaying a love for Hashem and most importantly love for one's fellow. 

The same goes for the Jewish people as a whole, who are referred to as “a kingdom of priests.” By adhering to the Torah’s practices, the children grow up seeing how important sustaining Jewish tradition is. And thus, we are guaranteed Jewish continuity.

Shabbat shalom,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie

Next Sunday, May 22, you have the opportunity to become Mental Health First Aid certified. MHFA is a skills-based training course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use conditions. The course is valued at $150, is sponsored and free - and includes lunch! Did you register yet? There is some prework that needs to be done, so please register ASAP! https://bit.ly/3yEN2zE The in person and main part part 9:30 am - 4 pm at Chabad of Uptown.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• May 18 - Lag B'Omer YJP Got Talent - An outdoor evening of Lag B’Omer with fellow young professionals performing their musical talents! Jamming session lead by Gal Litani! RSVP REQUIRED - $25 At door. Coupon $18 "Advance" - Expires May 16 - RSVP HERE
• May 22 - Mental Health First Aid Course - We are pleased to host our first hybrid, online / in-person Mental Health First Aid since covid! Mental Health First Aid is a skills-based training course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use conditions. CEU credit available. REGISTER HERE

Mazel tov Ariel & Tiffany Ourian on the birth of a baby boy!
Mazel tov Oded and Tslil Tzur on the birth of a baby boy!

Shabbos Parshas Emor
Friday, May 13, Iyar 12
Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat Services 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting 7:49 pm
Omer Count
 
Shabbos, May 14, Iyar 13
Chassidus at 9 am
Morning Service 10:00 am
Followed by lunch Kiddush
Mincha Service 7:50 pm
Maariv Havdalla and Shabbos Ends 8:46 pm
Omer Count
Living Torah

Sunday, May 15, Iyar 14 - 8:00 am
Monday-Friday, May 16-20, 15-19 Iyar- Shacharis at 6:45 am

Wed, May 18, 8 pm - Lag B'omer YJP Got Talent www.yjphouston.org/talent

Have a Good Shabbos!

It has been a busy week of travel celebrating the Bar Mitzvah of Rabbi Chaim's nephew, Eliezer Rivkin in Morristown and the first time another nephew Zalman Lazaroff of the medical center Chabad put on tefillin at the Ohel. It was very meaningful and a moment of holy serenity to spend time together as family and visit the ohel.

The name of this week’s Torah portion is Kedsohim, which literally means “holy,” as G‑d tells the Jewish people that they are obligated to always be holy.

Holiness can mean different things depending on the context, and here it means that G‑d wants us to be different, to stand out and live differently from everyone around us. Another term sometimes used in the Torah for this is hevdel, “separation,” implying that we are to keep ourselves separate and behave differently.

These words might sound familiar, as at their root they are associated with the ceremonies we use to usher Shabbat in and out. We begin Shabbat with kiddush and we conclude it with havdalah — leaving the holy day sandwiched between these two rituals.

Shabbat is a day that stands out among the rest of the week, and it must therefore be highlighted by special rituals at its beginning and end.

And just like Shabbat, the Jewish people must also be highlighted, in the way we act and in the way we treat the world around us.

With prayers for the coming of Moshiach very soon and Good Shabbos,

Rabbi Chaim & Chanie

Torah Day School of Houston is hiring! Let me know if you or someone you know wants to join the TDS family, and I will put you / them in touch with the right person!

• Office manager (starting immediately).
• Front Desk Receptionist (starting in June)
• Elementary teachers (For 2022-2023 school year)

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• May 6 - YJP Cinco de Shabbat - May First Fridays www.yjphouston.org/cinco2022
• May 11-15  - YJP Encounter with Antigua Guatemala!  An adventurous weekend of nature, soulfulness, and connection with fellow young Jewish professionals. LIMITED SPACE. CLICK FOR MORE INFO & TO APPLY
• May 13-15 - Shabbat in the Heights A spirited Shabbos experience in the nerve center of the Chabad Lubavitch Movement. More info and to register using invitation code ChabadUptown shabbatintheheights.com
• May 17 - Lag B'Omer YJP Got Talent - An outdoor evening of Lag B’Omer with fellow young professionals performing their musical talents! Jamming session lead by Gal Litani! RSVP REQUIRED - $25 At door. Coupon $18 "Advance" - Expires May 16 - RSVP HERE
• May 22 - Mental Health First Aid Course - We are pleased to host our first hybrid, online / in-person Mental Health First Aid since covid! Mental Health First Aid is a skills-based training course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use conditions. CEU credit available. REGISTER HERE

Shabbos Parshas Kedoshim
Friday, May 6, Iyar 5
Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat Services 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting 7:44 pm
Omer Count
 
Shabbos, May 7, Iyar 6
Chassidus at 9 am
Morning Service 10:00 am
Followed by lunch Kiddush
Mincha Service 7:45 pm
Maariv Havdalla and Shabbos Ends 8:41 pm
Omer Count
Living Torah

Sunday, May 8, Iyar 7 - 8:00 am
Monday-Friday, May 9-13, 8-12 Iyar- Shacharis at 6:45 am

Have a Good Shabbos!

We had a very relaxing Pesach break with all the kids home and enjoying quality family time. We hope that you had a meaningful Pesach as well.

This week's Torah portion describes the service of High Priest in the Temple on the holiest day of the year, Yom Kippur. His offerings, his purification in the ritual bath, and his prayers.

This narrative is immediately followed by a seemingly unrelated section, describing the laws of forbidden marriages and relationships.

Since nothing in Torah is by chance, there is certainly some connection between the two portions. It serves as a reminder that while being holy and spiritual is important, it cannot be without a healthy dose of morality. And it also reminds us that just like the laws dictating the holiest day of the year are from G-d, the rules about ethics and morality are equally Divine.

May we all succeed is finding purpose in our lives in obviously G-dly acts of spirituality and holiness and just as importantly in the daily mundane life that we all live in!

Shabbat shalom,

Rabbi Chaim and Chanie

MHFA IS BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! We are pleased to host our first hybrid, online / in-person Mental Health First Aid since covid! Mental Health First Aid is a skills-based training course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use conditions. This course will feature the most up to date MHFA 2.0 training. MHFA 2.0 course has two components. 

Part I: Approximately 2 hours in length, webinar style and computer-based.  Part I must be completed prior to Part II. 
Part II: Approximately 6 hours in length and is co-led by MHFA Certified National Instructors.  

Once participants complete the course, they will receive a certificate of completion valid for three years from the date of the course. This training is open to all. Pre registration required. *CEU credits available To register, click here

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• May 6 - YJP Cinco de Shabbat - May First Fridays
• May 11-15  - YJP Encounter with Antigua Guatemala!  An adventurous weekend of nature, soulfulness, and connection with fellow young Jewish professionals. LIMITED SPACE. CLICK FOR MORE INFO & TO APPLY
• May 13-15 - Shabbat in the Heights A spirited Shabbos experience in the nerve center of the Chabad Lubavitch Movement. More info and to register using invitation code ChabadUptown shabbatintheheights.com
• May 17 - Lag B'Omer YJP Got Talent - An outdoor evening of Lag B’Omer with fellow young professionals performing their musical talents! Jamming session lead by Gal Litani! RSVP REQUIRED - $25 At door. Coupon $18 "Advance" - Expires May 16 - RSVP HERE
• May 22 - Mental Health First Aid Course - We are pleased to host our first hybrid, online / in-person Mental Health First Aid since covid! Mental Health First Aid is a skills-based training course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use conditions. CEU credit available. REGISTER HERE

Shabbos Mevarchim Iyar, Parshas Acharei
Friday, April 29, Nissan 28
Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat Services 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting 7:40pm
Omer Count
 
Shabbos, April 30, Nissan 29
Shabbos Mevarchim Tehillim 8:30 am
Morning Service 10:00 am
Followed by Shabbos Mevarchim Kiddush and Farbrengen sponsored by Ben and Regina Shamooelian in memory of her grandfather Yehuda Aslan Halevi and her Aunt Esther.
Mincha Service 7:40 pm
Maariv Havdalla and Shabbos Ends 8:36 pm
Omer Count
Living Torah

Sunday, Rosh Chodesh Iyar I, May 1, Nissan 30 - 8:00 am
Followed by monthly Rosh Chodesh breakfast
Monday, Rosh Chodesh Iyar II, May 2, Iyar 1 - 6:45 am
Followed by breakfast
Tuesday-Friday, May 3-6, 2-5 Iyar- Shacharis at 6:45 am

Have a Good Shabbos!

 
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May Events

Cinco De Shabbat | Antigua Trip | NYC Trip | Talent Jamming Lag B'Omer BBQ | Mental Health First Aid

Wednesdays, 8:00 pm - Dinner, Class & Social
Wednesday In Person Classes are Back! 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! 

 Friday, May 7, 7:30 pm - Cinco de Shabbat - May First Fridays
Enjoy a Mexican Themed evening with other Young Jewish Professionals over Shabbat Dinner.  Services at 7:30 pm Shabbat Candle Lighting: 7:44, Shabbat Dinner 8:30 PM, $18 until Thursday, $25 after Use promo code: advance  RSVP HERE.

May 11-15  - YJP Encounter with Antigua Guatemala!  An adventurous weekend of nature, soulfulness, and connection with fellow young Jewish professionals. LIMITED SPACE. CLICK FOR MORE INFO & TO APPLY

May 13-15 - Shabbat in the Heights A spirited Shabbos experience in the nerve center of the Chabad Lubavitch Movement. More info and to register using invitation code ChabadUptown shabbatintheheights.com

Wednesday, May 17, 8:00 pm - YJP Got Talent Lag Bomer Jamming
EAT. PERFORM. WATCH.
Join YJP Houston for an outdoor evening of Lag B’Omer with fellow young professionals performing their musical talents! Jamming session lead by Gal Litani! RSVP REQUIRED - $25 At door. Coupons: $12 "FlashSale" - Expires April 27. $18 "Advance" - Expires May 17 - RSVP HERE

Sunday, May 22, 9am-3:30pm - Mental Health First Aid
We are pleased to host our first hybrid, online / in-person Mental Health First Aid since covid! Mental Health First Aid is a skills-based training course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use conditions. CEU credit available. REGISTER HERE

A wonderful Pesach and Seders had with so many of you! We look forward to seeing everyone for Pesach last days, with highlights of Yizkor and Moshiach Seudah on Saturday. Complete schedule below.

TODAY: Eruv Tavshilin - When Shabbos occurs immediately following a festival -- as it does this year -- an "eruv tavshilin" (i.e., food for at least one "meal" that is set aside in advance for Shabbos) must be prepared prior to the festival, so that it should be permitted to prepare food for Shabbat during the festival. For more on Eruv Tavshilin and how it is made click here

TONIGHT: Night of Learning - It is customary to remain awake tonight on the eve of the Seventh of Passover and spend the entire night in Torah study and joyous celebration of the great miracle of the splitting of the sea.

FRIDAY MORNING: Reading of the Song at the Sea -  On the Seventh Day of Pesach we read how on this day the sea split for the Children of Israel and drowned the pursuing Egyptians, and the "Song at the Sea" sung by the people upon their deliverance (Exodus 13:17-15:26; full summary with commentary here).

SATURDAY MORNING: Yizkor - The remembrance prayer for departed parents, is recited today after the morning reading of the Torah. Links: The Yizkor Prayer, Honor Due to Parents, On Breavement and Mourning

SATURDAY AFTERNOON / EVENING: Moshiach's Meal The last day of Pesach ("Acharon Shel Pesach") is particularly associated with Moshiach and the future redemption. The Haftarah for this day is from Isaiah 11, which describes the promised future era of universal peace and divine perfection. Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov instituted the custom of partaking of a "Moshiach's meal" on the afternoon of the last day of Pesach; in addition to the matzah eaten at "Moshiach's meal", the Rebbes of Chabad added the custom of drinking four cups of wine, as in the seder held on Pesach's first days.Links: Haftarah for 8th of Passover, The Third Seder, Moshiach: an Anthology.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• April 23 - Moshiach Meal Following the custom of the Baal Shem Tov, founder of Chassidism, Passover concludes with a "Feast of Moshiach." Click here
• May 6 - YJP Cinco de Shabbat - May First Fridays
• May 11-15  - YJP Encounter with Antigua Guatemala!  An adventurous weekend of nature, soulfulness, and connection with fellow young Jewish professionals. LIMITED SPACE. CLICK FOR MORE INFO & TO APPLY
• May 13-15 - Shabbat in the Heights A spirited Shabbos experience in the nerve center of the Chabad Lubavitch Movement. More info and to register using invitation code ChabadUptown shabbatintheheights.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 21 | DAY 6 EREV YOM TOV
Make an Eruv Tavshilin
Candle Lighting 7:35 pm
Evening Service 7:35 pm
Omer Count
Late Night Torah Study (AKA Fri early morning) 12:00 am
 
FRIDAY, APRIL 22 | DAY 7
Morning Service 10:00 am
Evening Service 7:30 pm
Omer Count
Light Shabbat & Yom Tov Candles BEFORE 7:35 pm
 
SHABBOS, APRIL 23 | DAY 8
Morning Service 10:00 am
Yizkor Memorial Service 11:30 am
Mincha Service 5:30 pm
Moshiach Meal 6:00 pm
Evening Service 8:31 pm
Omer Count
Holiday Ends 8:31 pm

SUNDAY, APRIL 24, 23 NISSAN - Shacharis at 8 am
MONDAY-FRIDAY, APRIL 25-29, 24-28 NISSAN - Shacharis at 6:45 am

Have a Happy Last Days of Pesach and a Good Shabbos!

In case you missed it: City of Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner declared this past Tuesday, 11 Nissan, Education and Sharing Day in Houston, marking 120 years from the Rebbe's birth, calling on all Houstonians to encourage and empower individuals to "increase their acts of goodness, kindness and awareness" thereby these "strong core values can be taken well beyond academic achievement [...] We can all do our part to foster a better and more hopeful future"

Pesach is coming, April 15-23! Check out everything we have for you at www.chabaduptown.org/pesach2022

• Last call to sell your chametz now! www.chabaduptown.org/chametz
• Complete Pesach candle lighting and service schedule www.chabaduptown.org/pesachschedule

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• April 23 - Moshiach Meal Following the custom of the Baal Shem Tov, founder of Chassidism, Passover concludes with a "Feast of Moshiach." Click here
• May 11-15  - YJP Encounter with Antigua Guatemala!  An adventurous weekend of nature, soulfulness, and connection with fellow young Jewish professionals. LIMITED SPACE. CLICK FOR MORE INFO & TO APPLY
• May 13-15 - Shabbat in the Heights A spirited Shabbos experience in the nerve center of the Chabad Lubavitch Movement. More info and to register using invitation code ChabadUptown shabbatintheheights.com

Thursday, April 14 | Chametz Riddance     
Sell your chametz! (You don't need to wait until the last minute... do it now! www.chabadhouston.com/chametz)
Check for Chametz at 8:13 pm

Friday, April 15 | Erev Pesach     
Fast of Firstborns Begins 5:37 am
Shacharis at 6:45 am
Siyum of Firstborns
Finish Eating Chametz by 11:11 am 
Burn Chometz by 12:16 pm
Candle Lighting 7:31 pm
Evening Service 7:30 pm
First Uptown Seder - RSVP
www.chabaduptown.org/seder
 
Shabbos, April 16 | Pesach Day 1
Morning Service 10:00 am
Prayer for Dew     
Evening Service 7:30 pm
Light Candles AFTER 8:26 pm
Count the Omer     
Second Uptown Seder - RSVP
www.chabaduptown.org/seder
 
Sunday, April 17 | Pesach Day 2
Morning Service 10:00 am
Evening Service 7:30 pm
Maariv Havdalla and Holiday Ends 8:27 pm

Monday-Thursday, April 18-21 | Day 3-6
Morning Service 6:45 am
Omer Count
 

Have a good Shabbos and a Happy and Kosher Pesach!