new beginnings

Words can not describe the sheer joy that capped off the holidays with Sukkot and Simchas Torah. Hundreds davened, celebrated and overflowed the sukkah and dancing with Torah with overwhelming love and happiness! Every child got these cute foil balloon or plush Torahs!

Let's bring this to the reality of the year and daily life! The Shabbat after Simchat Torah is Shabbat Bereishit -- "Shabbat of Beginning" -- the first Shabbat of the annual Torah reading cycle, on which the Torah section of Bereishit ("In the Beginning") is read. The weekly Torah reading is what defines the Jewish week, serving as the guide and point of reference for the week's events, deeds and decisions; Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi called this "living with the times." Hence the theme and tone of this week is one of beginning and renewal, as we launch into yet another cycle of Torah life. The Rebbes of Chabad would say: "As one establishes oneself on Shabbat Bereishit, so goes the rest of the year." We hope to see you in Shul!

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS: Next week brings you two great events not to miss.

1. Social Learning in a Private Home - Last month's social learning in a private home at Tslil'S place was a great success! Don't miss this month's social at the home of Michael Gorbaty! "Attend" the event for the address and parking instructions.
2. Game Night Shabbat First Fridays - Next friday is already November! Join Young Jewish Professionals for Game Themed Shabbat Dinner and interactive games throughout the night at YJP Houston - where spirits run high! www.yjphouston.org/games

How Adam and Eve Made Peace With Abel's Murder

Adam and Eve were at a loss, not only about what to do with Abel’s body, but they had a much deeper question: how to respond to absolute evil? How could they continue to live after witnessing the depravity of which humanity was capable? more…