What is the inherent worth and significance of every individual? This portion of Bamidbar begins with a comprehensive census of the Jewish people, a meticulous count of each tribe and a collective tally of all Jews.
Why was this census conducted? It serves as a powerful reminder that every single Jew holds a unique and indispensable place within the community. The Torah emphasizes that without the inclusion of each and every individual, the entirety of the Jewish people would be incomplete.
In a beautiful display of unity, Moshe enlisted the leaders of the tribes to assist in overseeing the census. Their involvement extended beyond counting their own tribes; all twelve leaders actively participated in counting the other eleven tribes as well.
This collective effort highlights the interdependence and interconnectedness of the Jewish people. When the value and significance of one individual are acknowledged and celebrated, it positively impacts the entire community. By assisting in the census of other tribes, the leaders demonstrated that their own worth was intertwined with the value of every other member.
Let us internalize this timeless wisdom and apply it to our lives today. Just as the tribal leaders recognized the mutual influence each Jew has on one another, we too must strive to uplift and support every individual in our community. By embracing the inherent value of each person, we create an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute their unique gifts.
As we journey through life together, let us cherish and respect the diversity of our community. May we continue to stand united, supporting one another until the day when we are fully reunited as one people with the arrival of Moshiach, speedily in our times!
Wishing you a week filled with unity, appreciation, and meaningful connections.
Good Shabbos!
Rabbi Chaim & Chanie
DO YOU HAVE AN IDEA WORTH SHARING?
This Shavuot, add your voice to this unbroken narrative. Come present your Torah Ideas Worth Sharing.
11:30 pm-All Night with Light Refreshments and Free Admission
BE A PARTICIPANT
JEPShavuot features a series of ten-minute power talks showcasing important Jewish ideas that change attitudes and lives. These talk are designed to educate, illuminate, challenge and inspire.
BE A PRESENTER
Have a Torah idea worth spreading? Submit your idea and you might be selected to present your 10 minute Torah talk. Reply to this email with your subject!
Shavuos Grand 3D Experience
Join us for an extraordinary journey as we invite the entire family to immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring Shavuos Grand 3D Experience. Prepare to be captivated as children are transported to ancient times after the Ten Commandments are read from the sacred Torah, where they will witness and be amazed by our larger-than-life, interactive Matan Torah experience, featuring a towering Mount Sinai, authentic-sized Luchos, and even a captivating portrayal of Moshe himself. Engage in an enthralling improvisational play, partake in Shavuos-themed games, and prepare for a host of surprises that await you. Don't miss this unforgettable event! Reserve your free spot for Shavuos at www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule.
Upcoming Events:
- Wednesdays, 24, 31 & June 7 – 8-9 pm - CYP ACADEMY: Art of Communication The “Art of Communication” four-part course takes you on an intellectually exciting journey contrasting Jewish thought with scientific discovery to unearth the essence of communication and how to utilize its powers to better ourselves, our relationships, and all of society. www.yjphouston.org/communicate.
VOUCHERS: Join CYP Academy and receive $200 credit for each four part course successfully completed towards any past or future CYP Encounter Trip Experience such the JLI Retreat! - 🍦 Shavuot, Thursday-Shabbat, May 25-27 🧈: www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule
- Thurs., May 25, 11:30 pm Shavuos All Night Learn-A-Thon - For 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.
- Fri. May 26, 11:15 am Shavuos Reading of Ten Commandments & Party followed by 1 pm dairy kiddush & ice cream party! Featuring a fabulous assortment of Ice Cream, cheesecakes, blintzes, pasta and salad.
- Sat. May 27 11:45 am approx. - Shavuos Yizkor Memorial Service
- Fri., June 2, 7:30 pm - Israel Shabbat - June First Fridays Enjoy authentic Israeli cuisine with other Young Jewish Professionals over Shabbat Dinner including chummus, falafel, shwarma, and salads galore! www.yjphouston.org/israel
Shabbos Mevarchim Sivan Parshas Bamidbar
Friday, May 19, 28 Iyar
Services at 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting at 7:52 pm
Omer Count 44
RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner
Shabbos, May 20, 28 Iyar
Shabbos Mevarchim Tehillim at 8:30 am
Services at 10 am
Shabbos Lunch Kiddush & Farbrengen
Mincha at 7:50 pm
Pirkei Avot Chapter 6
Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbos ends at 8:50 pm
Omer Count 45
Living Torah
Sunday, Rosh Chodesh Sivan, May 21, 1 Sivan
Shacharis at 8:00 am
Followed by monthly breakfast
Mon.-Thurs. May 21-25, 2-5 Sivan
Shacharis at 6:45 am
COMPLETE SHAVUOS SCHEDULE
Make an Eruv Tavshilin
Thursday, May 25, 5 Sivan
Light Yom Tov Candles at 7:56 pm
Mincha & Maariv at 7:55 pm
All Night Learn-A-Thon at 11:30 pm
Lineup of Torah talks on many Jewish subjects!
Friday, May 26, 6 Sivan
Shacharis at 10:00 am
* 11am-1pm Special childrens' service w/ games, activities and more!
Reading of Ten Commandments & Party at 11:15 am
followed by 1 pm dairy kiddush & ice cream party!
BEFORE 7:56 pm Light Shabbat & Yom Tov Candles from Pre-existing Flame
Mincha & Maariv Holiday Services at 7:55 pm
Shabbos, May 27, 7 Sivan
Chassidus at 9:00 am
Shacharis at 10 am
11:45 am approx. Yizkor Memorial Service
Mincha at 7:55 pm
Maariv, Havdalla & Yom Tov Ends at 8:55 pm
Living Torah
Good Shabbos & Good Yom Tov!