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MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2026 - #25
The End of Year Issue
Upcoming Events
Nov 6, Friday 6 PM - Shabbat & a Show; Steve R Leader; Bob Cantor
Nov 13 , Friday 6 PM - Shabbat, Rabbi Padorr (followed by dinner)
Nov 14, Saturday 10 AM -Torah Discussion with Rabbi Padorr & lunch
Nov 20 Friday 6 PM - Shabbat; Steve, Leader & Cantor
Nov 28, Friday - NO SERVICES - Thanksgiving weekend
Dec 4, Fri 6 PM - Shabbat/Hanukkah 1st candle; Marsha C Leader, Bob Cantor
Dec 6, Sunday 10 AM - Sisterhood Birthday Cake Box project
Dec 11, Friday 6 PM - Shabbat & Hanukkah 8th candle; Rabbi Padorr
Dec 12, Saturday 10 AM - Torah Disussion with Rabbi Padorr & lunch
Dec 18, Friday 6 PM - Shabbat; ?? Leader. Steve Cantor
Dec 25, Friday - Serving at the Open Door Food Kitchen
Dec 25, Friday - NO SERVICES - Christmas weekend
Jan 1, Friday - NO SERVICES - New Years weekend
Jan 8, Friday - Shabbat & a Show; ?? Leader; Steve Cantor
Help us fill this list
SHABBAT SERVICE LEADERS NEEDED & APPRECIATED
Starting in 2027, In addition to our Rabbinic leadership, a dedicated group of our members have each committed to leading a service about 3 times each during the coming year on a rotating schedule.
If you would like to give it a try on the bima - whether as service leader, cantor, sermon, or any combination - then ...
EMAIL office @beit-echad.net,
Here's What's Inside
Page 2 - President Steve's view - “ Never let your memories be greater than your dreams"— Jeffrey Katzenberg'
Small Congregation, Strong Foundation:
The Future of Beit Echad Depends on All of Us
As we move further into the Jewish New Year of 5787, I want to take a moment to reflect on Beit Echad and the importance of maintaining a strong Jewish community here in St. Joseph.
Although we are a small congregation, we have much to be proud of. We continue to come together for Shabbat services, holidays, celebrations, and community activities. These opportunities allow us to stay connected to our faith, our traditions, and, just as importantly, to one another.
One of my priorities is to see Beit Echad remain an active, welcoming, and meaningful part of our community. We have accomplished a great deal since coming together as one congregation, and while there are still challenges ahead, I believe we have a strong foundation on which to build.
Looking Ahead in 5787
Something I have come to appreciate is just how much we depend on the participation and generosity of our members. Whether it's helping with services, preparing an Oneg, organizing an event, serving on a committee, making a financial contribution, or simply attending services and activities, every effort makes a difference. We all have something to offer, and no contribution of time or support is too small.
I also recognize that we are asking a lot of a relatively small group of people. My hope is that in the coming year, we can encourage more members to become involved, share responsibilities, and bring new ideas to the table. The future of Beit Echad doesn't rest with any one person or with the board alone. It depends on all of us working together.
I am deeply grateful to everyone who has helped Beit Echad become what it is today. Your continued commitment gives me confidence that, together, we can keep Jewish life active, meaningful, and connected here in St. Joseph.
As we look ahead, may we continue to strengthen the friendships, connections, and sense of community that make Beit Echad so special. I wish you and your families good health, happiness, and peace in the months ahead.
Shalom,
Steven Rosenak, O.D. President
Page 3 - Reflections — Welcoming the New Year 5787 in Pictures (& a few words)
... Shel Shabbat v'Yom Tov
Teshuvah, Tefillah, and Tzedakah
"repentance, prayer, and charity"
Rosh Hashanah
"Recognizing the Birth of Humanity"
Shir l'Shabbat Shuvah
"Music in Shabbat of Return"
Sukkot
"Celebrating with Lulav & Etrog"
Simchat Torah
"Joy in the Torah"
Our Musicians Anna Jaffe, Karen Spies, Clint Gillom
Hagbaah & Gelilah - Rasing & Dressing The Torah
Food Drive
"Tzedakah"
We Can't Stop Now
October 7th
"Never forget"
Memories, grief, and a prayer shared
From: office@beit-echad.net
To: office@beit-echad.net
Subject: October 7th Remembrance
Date: Wednesday, October 07, 2026 11:56 AM
Today is the 3rd anniversary of the October 7th massacre in southern Israel. None of us will forget that day. Below is a prayer if you would like to stop for a few moments and think about the ones lost, the ones left behind, and the ones still suffering.
Adonai Elohim, comfort those who mourn and heal the brokenhearted.
Strengthen the survivors and protect the people in the land of Israel.
Remember the mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, children, and grandparents whose lives were brutally taken, as well as the brave first responders and soldiers who risked or gave their lives to protect others.
Bring healing, justice, and true, lasting peace to the region and across the entire world.
May the memories of all who perished forever be a blessing. Amen
On October 7th, although Beit Echad did not have a specific memorial event, we shared the following prayer with our entire community email list.
The following Saturday, October 11th, at the Shir l'Shabbat service in Prairie Village, KS, Rabbi Rudnick shared this prayer with those in attendance, once again acknowledging Beit Echad before greater Kansas City's Jewish community.
Thanks to all your efforts and contributions, 217 cans and 38 boxes of dry goods were donated to 2nd Harvest Food Bank.
Let's double that for Hanukah and the Holiday season !!!
T'kia G'dolah
High Holy Day Feedback
Having just celebrated our third High Holy Day season under the leadership of Rabbi Rudnick, we have an opportunity to individually look back at what we liked, what we didn't, and what was missing. Each of the past two years, our religious team has worked with Rabbi Rudnick to make it as meaningful as possible for our community.
Now, Rabbi Rudnick wants to hear from you in order to build on those changes and improve services even more, next year.
"Help us make it even better!"
Keep an eye out for an upcoming email from our office@beit-echad address inviting you to complete a survey and offer your input.
Page 4 - Sisterhood News
Our third-quarter Sisterhood meeting was a great success! We enjoyed a wonderful gathering, had some meaningful discussions, and made several exciting decisions about how we can continue giving back to our community this holiday season! (And of course, no Sisterhood gathering would be complete without something delicious! A special thank-you to Karen and Surah for treating us to some wonderful cinnamon rolls and fresh sourdough bread. They certainly made our meeting a little sweeter!)
We are pleased to announce that the Sisterhood will once again be supporting Toys for Tots, participating in the Angel Tree program at InterServ, and, for the third consecutive year, preparing our Birthday Cake Boxes for individuals and families served by the InterServ Food Pantry. The Sisterhood also voted to contribute $300 toward the Birthday Cake Box project to help make this year's effort a success. These projects are especially meaningful to us, and we look forward to making a difference in the lives of others.
We were also delighted to welcome the director of Mid-City Excellence, Kimberly Warren, as our guest speaker. Her presentation was both interesting and informative, giving us a greater understanding of the wonderful work this organization does in our community. In support of their efforts, the Sisterhood voted to make a $300 donation to Mid-City Excellence.
Looking ahead, Sisterhood officer elections for President, Vice President, and Secretary will be held at our December meeting (date to be determined). We encourage anyone interested in becoming more involved in the Sisterhood to consider serving in a leadership position.
We are so grateful for the continued generosity and support of our Sisterhood members and the entire Beit Echad community. It's this spirit of caring, friendship, and giving that makes our Sisterhood so special!
“The world stands on three things: Torah, service, and acts of loving-kindness.” — Pirkei Avot 1:2
Bivracha,
Sandy
SHARING OUR SISTER'S SUCCESS
Let’s not explain music to children.
Let’s help them truly experience it.
(and a holiday gift suggestion)
Our own Beit Echad Sisterhood member writing under the pen name Reena Young now has a five-book series available on Amazon that introduces children to the great composers of classical music with an interactive approach of reading along with listening to the performance.
The first book in The Musical Alphabet series is Musical Alphabet Composers (A–D); it is not a textbook. It is a child’s first real encounter with great music.
Designed for ages 3–9, the book introduces twelve composers in a way that feels natural, clear, and engaging — without overwhelming explanations or unnecessary detail. Instead of reading about music, your child will:
listen
recognize
connect
and begin to feel what they hear
Each composer’s section includes a QR code that instantly connects to a carefully selected performance.
No searching.
No confusion.
Just scan, listen, and enjoy.
Instead of random videos and endless scrolling, your child is guided toward carefully selected performances that support attention, listening, and emotional connection. The screen becomes a tool — not a distraction.
Inside, your child meets composers whose music has shaped the world: Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Chopin, Debussy, Delibes, and others — each opening a distinct and memorable musical space.
Learn more about this first book, the others in the series, and all of Reena's books at https://www.amazon.com/dp/1972314009, and consider making a purchase for the upcoming holiday season.
As the Beit Echad Sisterhood and Beit Echad congregation, we congratulate Reena for her successes and thank her for sharing her talents with the world.
Page 5 - Board Action! - "You are not what you think; you are not what you say; you are what you do " — Peter Dunne
THE BOARD MET: On Tuesday October 20th, the regular meeting of the board met for 2 hours and discussed finances, online giving options, membership directory updates, religious leadership in 2027, ongoing security, storage limits, and grants.
TREASURER'S REPORT: Just under two thirds of our members have paid dues in full. Acknowledgements and IRS receipts were sent as appropriate to all donors totalling $100 or more through September 30. Despite recent market losses, our reserve savings account is still on track for a 5% annualized growth.
WORSHIP: Security - We will continue through year-end to provide armed security for Friday night services with Annie D coordinating with the StJPD. Rabbinic leaders for 2027 - It was confirmed that we will have additional Rabbinic leadership for 2027. In addition to Rabbi Padorr, Rabbi Brendan Howard, and student Rabbi Anna Jaffe have agreed to share the monthly visits with each visiting about 4 times a year. Rabbi Padorr has offered to come during the 4 months of April thru July in order to have a consistent Saturday study, Lay leadership - Lay leaders and cantors will continue to fill in when we do not have a guest Rabbi. Concerns about Bob & Steve not being available at times during the year were discussed. It is planned to develop a recording of the Shabbat songs that can be played when there is no regular cantor available.
FACILITY: Door Sign - The original front door sign was installed but was unsatisfactory. One of our regular security officers, StJPD Officer Jen Garrett, offered to redo it thru her side business at no cost and installed it for us. Discussion was held on an appropriate thank you gift. Storage and Stained Glass - Glass panels currently in storage at Wesley Glass must be moved to a different location (our storage closet). Pending that move the closet needs to be cleared out of unnecessary items including the unused books and piano. The piano will be offered to the church at the TAJ building, then sold through eBay or another market service as a last resort.
MEDIA: KC Chronicle - Our contact (the editor) is no longer with the Chronicle, but we are moving forward to establish a new relationship. Zoom upgrade - We will be investigating alternative audio devices to improve the Zoom audio, especially for music. Cantor substitute - In preparation for those occasions when we cannot have one of our lay cantors, Steve or Bob, available for Shabbat services, we will prepare an audio recording to be used on those occasions.
SISTERHOOD: Elections will be held over the next couple of months. The cake box project for InterServ is being planned..
OTHER BUSINESS: Elections of BE officers and board members will be held in the Spring. Candidates need to be considered.
Page 6 - Chanukah - What you need to know ... and what you didn't know
Bet You Didn't Know This ...
1 Candle (added) or 8 Candles (reduced)
As is well-known, on the first eve of Chanukah, we traditionally will light one candle, 2 on the second, and so on until all the candles are lit on the eighth and final night.
But did you know that there was actually rabbinical disagreement advocating the lighting of all eight candles on the FIRST eve?
The House of Rabbi Shammai opined that eight candles should be lit on the first night, seven on the second night, and so on down to one on the last night (because the miracle was greatest on the first day). The House of Rabbi Hillel argued in favor of starting with one candle and lighting an additional one every night, up to eight on the eighth night (because the miracle grew in greatness each day). Jewish law adopted the position of Hillel, so that is now why we increase the number each day.
See the accompanying article regarding the significance of the Hebrew Spelling
It's generally well-known that it is derived from the root word "חנו", meaning "to dedicate". However, another explanation given for the name חנוכה is ....
חנוכח נרות והלכה כבית הלל
translating to "Eight candles, and the halakha is according to the House of Hillel" (see related article about 1 + or 8 -)
The B.E. Chanukah Party
Beit Echad's annual Chanukah party will be held in conjunction with Shabbat Eve, Friday night December 11th, when we light the 8th Chanukah candle. Rabbi Padorr will lead services. followed by a special dinner in recognition of the holiday.
When is Chanukah 2026?
The 8 days of Chanukah occur early in 2026 (well-before Christmas) from December 5 to 12. The first candle (see accompanying article) will be lit on Friday (Shabbat) December 4th, and 8th candle on Friday (Shabbat) December 11th.
Hebrew Defines the Word
Aside from making it impossible to have one English spelling, the Hebrew letters that spell Chanukah have several meanings ...
CLICK HERE for Differences Between Christmas And Hanukkah
Page 7- End of Year Giving & Recognitions - "To recognize is to adorn the world with the jewels of gratitude.” – Gabrielle Summer
As the year 2026 nears its end, please review your end of year giving, and keep Beit Echad in mind.
Dues are a necessary commitment we ask you to make to show appreciation for and support of our many activities. If you've made a pledge, remember to satisfy it. If you have not made prior personal commitment or paid dues, remember that other than a minimal amount of $25 to maintain membership, YOU determine your own dues support based on your abilities. Beit Echad does not want financial limitations to prevent participation and membership.
Donations are welcome in addition to whatever dues you have paid, will pay, or have committed to. We received many contributions in recognition of the High Holy Days, in support of our additional security costs, to support our Rabbinic leadership, and to assist with special events and holiday activities. See the accompanying articles regarding special recognitions.
On-line donation options are currently under review and will hopefully be in place before the end of the year for your convenience.
Mail (or use your bank's bill pay option) to send dues and gifts to Beit Echad, 2247 N Belt Hwy, St Joseph MO 64506
Our Tree of Life is growing.
In addition to our first leaf in memory of Sandy Smail, three additional leaves have now been added:
In recognition of
Rabbi Rudnick
In honor of
Beit Echad Sisterhood
In recognition of Shayna Rosenak.
Add your own leaf or leaves with a single donation of $54 or two leaves for $100. Whether "In Honor", "In Memory", or "In Recognition" of a special event, the Tree of Life at Beit Echad will enable you to share your blessings.
Page 8 - Shabbat & a Show Returns In November Then Takes an End-of-Year Break
Shabbat, and a Show
Friday, November 6, 6PM
A shortened Shabbat service, followed by a light meal and movie.
What happens when a beloved small-town rabbi is pushed to defend his community? In Guns & Moses (2024, PG, 1h 34m), a violent attack on a Jewish community in the high desert turns its gentle rabbi into an unlikely gunslinger.
Writer-director Salvadore Litvak uses this story to explore antisemitism, self-defense, and morality, asking when protecting your community justifies force and how fear and anger can be misdirected. In light of the October 7th attacks and rising antisemitism in the U.S., these questions feel especially timely.
Please note the film includes depictions of gun violence.
See a list of other movies under consideration at beit-echad.net/shabbat-and-a-show,
or offer your own suggestion by emailing office @ beit-echad .net
Guns & Moses
"When faith meets the fight, a rabbi unearths a truth more dangerous than hate itself."
Due to all of the end of year holidays
there will be no show in December
BUT, JOIN US IN
JANUARY 2027
for another year of Shabbat, and a Show
Page 9 - The Open Door - “Poverty is a very complicated issue, but feeding a child isn't.” — Jeff Bridges
Have you ever stopped to think about how fortunate you are to have a place to call home, food in your kitchen, a job to go to, and a car to get you where you need to be? Now imagine what life would be like if those things were suddenly gone. Where would you go? What would you eat? How would you get back on your feet?
For many people in our community, this is their everyday reality. That's why the Open Door Food Kitchen is here. We serve lunch to those in need 365 days a year, offering not just a meal, but also a warm welcome and a reminder that someone cares.
Since its beginning in 1984, our Jewish community has been dedicated to feeding the hungry through the ODFK. For more than four decades, this commitment to helping our neighbors has been an important part of our community's spirit of compassion and caring. We are proud of this tradition and grateful to every who has helped keep our doors open and meals on the table throughout the years.
For many years, our Jewish community has cooked and served Christmas lunch on December 25 so our Christian friends can enjoy the holiday with family and friends. We'll be carrying on that tradition again this Christmas. We cook and serve a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings. The preparation begins the afternoon of December 24. Everything is finalized and served on Christmas Day. We are proud to continue this tradition of giving, sharing and caring for others during the holiday season.
At the Open Door Food Kitchen, it's about more than serving a meal. It's about treating folks with dignity, offering a warm welcome, and reminding everyone who walks through our doors that they matter.
Thank you to our volunteers, donors and community supporters who make this possible. Together, we can make sure there is always a place at the table for everyone, because that is the right thing to do.
Have a grateful Thanksgiving, a happy Chanukah and may 2027 be good to each of you.
Marsha Rosenthal
FROM THE OPEN DOOR FOOD KITCHEN
by Marsha Rosenthal
THE OPEN DOOR NEEDS NEW VOLUNTEERS
A CALL IS NOW GOING OUT FOR NEW VOLUNTEER GROUPS TO BE A PART OF THEIR MISSION TO FEED ST. JOSEPH'S HUNGRY EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK, 365 DAYS A YEAR.
IF YOU KNOW OF A GROUP, BUSINESS, CHURCH, FAMILY, OR NEIGHBORHOOD THAT COULD TAKE ONE DAY (OR MORE) A MONTH TO VOLUNTEER TO SERVE, REFER THEM TO THE OPEN DOOR:
816-364-1085
Page 10 - I Met The Last Jewish Mobster - "...we Jews need to have each other’s backs."- Gillian Whitney
After his presentation, Myron took questions from the audience. Here are a few of the interactions presented as recalled by Bob & Sherrie who were also in attendance.
Q: Is there still a Jewish Mob? A: The era of the Jewish mobsters ended with WWII
Q: Aren't you romanticizing? A: (expletive deleted - he didn't like the implication)
Q: When did you stop being a mobster? A: Who says I stopped.
Q: Ever targeted by other mobs? A: Survived 2 assassination attempts.
Q: Comments on today's antisemitism? A: It is worse today than it was then. We have 25 years left - Go to Israel. It is our hope and our future. He continued to explain his personal experience of betrayal with his "good friend" that has lead to his distrust of Arabs.
Q: What can we do today? A: Be armed. If they know we are armed they will leave us alone. Be proud of and show who you are. (He wore the title "the Jew from Jersey" with honor)
Myron is charismatic and full of life. When introduced to him he gave me a hug. Lovely.
His presentation was well worth attending. My sister Gillian, who was also there, said it best: hearing Myron speak was a living history experience.
She was struck by his stories of how the New York and New Jersey Jewish and Italian mobs helped smuggle guns to Israel in 1948, supplying a brand-new nation as it defended itself against seven neighboring countries bent on its destruction. At a time when it felt like no one in the world was raising a hand to help... Jews from halfway across the world did whatever it took. Maybe the fact that the Jewish mob was used to breaking the rules (and the laws) made them exactly the right allies at exactly the right time.
As Gillian put it, the takeaway is that we Jews need to have each other’s backs.
I Met Myron Sugerman — The Last Jewish Mobster
By Janet Elie
On Sunday, October 11th I had the opportunity to visit with Myron Sugarman at the Kehilath Israel Synagogue in Overland Park, KS.
His presentation and book signing on “The Chronicles of The Last Jewish Gangster” was riveting. Of course I had to buy it.
Myron who was born in 1938 and lives in New Jersey was sponsored to come and share his story. He had a 60-year career as an international mobster in the slot machine business. He regaled us with stories of his travels around the world from Europe to Asia, to Africa and even as far as Paraguay South America where a large number of Jews immigrated after World War II.
Here are a few snippets I would like to share:
I didn’t realize that just prior to World War II there were groups of Pro Nazis in American called the Great American Bund. Jewish thugs would band together and literally beat them to minimize any damage they could do in our country.
He also shared a story how he helped to track down Josef Mengele in Paraguay so he could be brought to trial for his horrific treatment of the Jews in Auschwitz.
It was amazing hearing stories about how the Jewish crime families interacted with the Italian mafioso families. There was a definite respect for each other. But he said one thing that stopped me in my tracks. He said, “Jews don’t kill Jews”. Jews might not always be on the right side of law, but life is still most precious.
Myron encouraged one of his sons to follow in his path, but he instead became an Orthodox Rabbi in Boca Raton and has eight children.
But his lasting message was that we in the United States should take what is happening with antisemitism very seriously.
Page 11 - Nov/ Dec Torah readings - If we are to believe that the Torah was a human construction then doesn’t that undermine our belief in Gd and what the Torah says Gd wants?
Torah Readings For Nov & Dec
from hebcal.com
7 Nov. 2026 / 27 Cheshvan 5787
Parashat Chayei Sara 5787/ פָּרָשַׁת חַיֵּי שָֹרָה
Genesis 23:1-25:18
Chayyei Sarah (“The Life of Sarah”) opens as Sarah dies and Abraham buys the Cave of Machpelah to bury her. Abraham sends his servant to find a wife for Isaac. The servant meets Rebecca at a well, and Rebecca returns with the servant to marry Isaac. Abraham remarries, has more children, and dies at age 175.
14 November 2026 / 4 Kislev 5787
Parashat Toldot 5787 / פָּרָשַׁת תּוֹלְדוֹת
Genesis 25:19-28:9
Toldot (“Generations”) opens with the births of Isaac and Rebecca’s twins, Jacob and Esau. Esau sells his birthright to Jacob in exchange for soup. Isaac and Rebecca travel to Gerar, where Isaac makes a peace treaty with King Abimelech. Isaac gives Jacob the blessing meant for Esau, and Jacob runs away to his uncle Laban.
21 November 2026 / 11 Kislev 5787
Parashat Vayetzei 5787 / פָּרָשַׁת וַיֵּצֵא
Genesis 28:10-32:3
Vayeitzei (“He Went Out”) opens as Jacob dreams about angels going up and down a ladder, and then continues on his journey toward the home of his uncle Laban. During years of indentured servitude, Jacob marries Laban’s daughters Leah and Rachel, bearing children with them and with their maidservants, Bilhah and Zilpah.
28 November 2026 / 18 Kislev 5787
Vayishlach 5787 פָּרָשַׁת וַיִּשְׁלַח
Genesis 32:4-36:43
Vayishlach (“He Sent”) follows Jacob and his family as Jacob wrestles with a man (commonly understood as an angel), is renamed Israel, and reconciles with his brother, Esau. Jacob’s daughter, Dina, is raped by a Hivite prince, and her brothers sack a city in response. Rachel dies as she gives birth to Jacob’s youngest child, Benjamin.
5 December 2026 / 24 Kislev 5787
Parashat Vayeshev 5787 / פָּרָשַׁת וַיֵּשֶׁב
Genesis 37:1-40:23; Numbers 7:1-17
Vayeshev (“He Settled”) begins the story of Joseph, describing his rivalry with his brothers, slavery in Egypt, and imprisonment after his master’s wife frames him in response to Joseph’s refusal of her advances. It also contains the story of Tamar, her husbands, and her father-in-law, Judah.
25 December 2026 / 16 Tevet 5787
Parashat Vayechi 5787 / פָּרָשַׁת וַיְחִי
Genesis 18:1-22:24
Vayechi (“He Lived”) is the final Torah portion in the Book of Genesis. It opens as Jacob prepares for his death, making his son Joseph swear to bury him in the Cave of Machpelah. Jacob blesses Joseph’s two sons and his own 12 sons and then dies. Jacob’s sons bury him. The portion ends with Joseph’s death.
12 December 2027 / 2 Tevet 5787
Parashat Miketz 5787 / פָּרָשַׁת מִקֵּץ
Genesis 41:1-44:17; Numbers 7:54-8:4
Mikketz (“After”) follows Joseph as he interprets Pharaoh’s dreams and rises to become second-in-command to Pharaoh. When Joseph’s brothers come to Egypt seeking food during a famine, Joseph accuses them of spying. He insists that they return with their youngest brother, Benjamin, and later plants a goblet in Benjamin’s bag.
19 December 2026 / 9 Tevet 5787
Parashat Vayigash 5787 / פָּרָשַׁת וַיִּגַּשׁ
Genesis 44:18-47:27
Vayiggash (“He Approached”) opens as Judah pleads with Joseph not to keep Benjamin as a prisoner. Joseph reveals his true identity to his brothers, crying and kissing them. The brothers bring Jacob from Canaan to Egypt, and Jacob and his children settle in Goshen. The portion ends as Joseph buys most of Egypt’s land in exchange for food
The Torah repeatedly quotes Gd, and the values of the Torah are supposed to be eternal. Trying to look at the values of today’s society or any other society throughout history and say that the modern values are correct - even though they contradict Torah values - undermines our belief that the Torah is a guide on divine values. Similarly, starting with today’s values and trying to fit the Torah to those values is also not valid.
We must consider that it is also possible that the values of a particular society - that contradict Torah values - are not moral. Certainly there have been societies throughout history that have had very barbaric values. Torah is our moral guide no matter what society we live in and those values are eternal!
2 January 2027 / 23 Tevet 5787
Parashat Shemot 5787 / פָּרָשַׁת שְׁמוֹת
Exodus 1:1-6:1
Shemot (“Names”) is the first Torah reading in the book of Exodus. It opens describing the enslavement of the Israelites in Egypt. Moses is born, placed in a basket on the Nile, and adopted into Pharaoh’s household. Moses encounters Gd at a burning bush and begins his mission of demanding that Pharaoh let the Israelites go.
Page 12 - Yahrzeit - ”you should have a long life"
Nov 8-14, 2026/28 Cheshvan - 4 Kislev 5787
Nancy Ansevic, RN -- Nov. 14, 2013*
Fannie Block -- Nov. 14, 1928*
Rebecca Droher -- Nov. 15, 1972*
Michael Irl Einbender – Nov. 13, 1976/20 Cheshvan*^
Albert Elsberg --Nov. 9, 1941*
Alfred Elsberg -- Nov. 9, 1941*
Martha G. Elsberg -- Nov. 9, 1941*
Robert Fox – Nov 11th…1 Kislev^
Minnie Goldberg – Nov 10th…30 Cheshvan^
Berman Hassenbusch -- Nov. 13, 1939*
Samuel Kahn -- Nov. 9, 1934*
Sam Katelman – Nov 21st…1 Kislev^
Elizabeth P. Kaplan -- Nov. 8, 1943*
Mary Lewis – Nov 9th…29 Cheshvan^
Sadye Levy Lichtenstein Lewis – Nov. 9, 2008/11 Cheshvan 5769*^
Henry Marx -- Nov. 11, 2004
Richard Optican – 25 Cheshvan 5784/Nov 9, 2023^°
Lu Polsky – Nov 14th…4 Kislev/Nov 14, 2007^
Rose Rich – Nov 12th …2 Kislev^
Dr. Irwin Rosenthal – Nov 12, 1989*
Claira Arst Waisbaum -- Nov. 12, 1999*
Nov 15-21, 2026/5-11 Kislev 5787
Babeth Block -- Nov. 20*
Rebecca Droher -- Nov. 15, 1972*
Dianne Greenwald -- Nov. 16, 1978
Dr. Eric Handler – 8 Kislev 5741/Nov 16, 1980
Harry Herman -- Nov. 20, 1970*
Eugene S. Juda, Sr. -- Nov. 19, 1955*
Godfried Hertz – Nov 20th … 10 Tevet^
William Kaplan – Nov 15th…5 Kislev^
Harry Lewis – Nov 16th…6 Kislev^
Allan Lowenberg -- 16 Cheshvan 5777/Nov. 17, 2016^*
Israel Mazon – Nov 21st… 11 Kislev/Dec 11, 1978^
Martha Sara Heflin Moldaver. – 17 Cheshvan 5785/Nov 18,2024♡
Charles M. Potlitzer -- Nov. 16, 1932*
Annabelle Richman -- Nov 26th...6 Kislev/20 Nov 1985
Harriet Smolly – Nov 15th…5 Kislev/Dec 3, 2019^
Joseph Strauss -- Nov. 19, 1933*
Henrietta H. Westheimer -- Nov. 18, 1947*
Elizabeth Zidell – Nov 17th…7 Kislev^
Jacob Zidell – Nov 16th…6 Kislev^
Marcia Zidell – Nov 21st… 11 Kislev/Dec 10, 1997^
Nov 22-28, 2026/12-18 Kislev 5787
Bess Rose Beck -- Nov. 28, 1991*
Albert Becker – Nov 28th… 18 Kislev^
Samuel Block -- Nov. 26*
Meyer Block -- Nov. 28, 1973*
Mark Howard Brosky – Nov 28th… 18 Kislev^
Helen W. Cahn -- Nov. 26*
Benjamin Clayman – Nov 28th… 18 Kislev^
Rose Deitchman – Nov 26th…
16 Kislev/Nov 22, 1983^
Lillian Droher -- Nov. 22°
Esther Eveloff – Nov 27th … 17 Kislev^
Victor David Goldman – Nov 25th …
15 Kislev 5765/Nov. 27, 2004^°
Nathan Gordon – Nov 25th … 15 Kislev^
Woodrow Hendren -- Nov. 27, 1993°
Solomon (Sol) Hirsch – Nov 23rd…
13 Kislev 5693/Dec 11, 1932*^
Allan P. Liebling -- Nov. 28, 1994*
Sally Mantel – Nov 25th…15 Kislev/Nov 29^°
Della Fink Meyer -- Nov. 27, 1988
Rabbi Myron M. Meyer -- Nov. 26, 1974*
Annabelle Richman -- Nov 26th...6 Kislev/20 Nov 1985
Etta Saferstein – Nov 26th … 16 Kislev/Nov 21, 2002^
Fanny Shoengood – Nov 23rd…13 Kislev^
Harry Shoengood – Nov 23rd…13 Kislev ^
Rachel Steinberg – Nov 25th…15 Kislev^
Sarah Trilinsky – Nov 26th… 16 Kislev^
Nathan Waisblum -- Nov. 24, 1992°
Paulene Weinberg – Nov 22nd…12 Kislev^
Ben Zurow – Nov 24th…14 Kislev/Dec 8, 1965^
Nov 29-Dec 5, 2026/19-25 Kislev 5787
Violet R. Abramson -- Dec. 2, 1987*
Bettie Amburgh -- Dec. 2, ?*
Herbert Arst -- Nov. 29, 2002°
Fannie Gordon Block -- Dec. 1, 1967*
Joshua Duncan -- Dec. 2022
Sarah H. Ehrlich -- Dec. 1*
Sylvia Eveloff -- Dec. 2, 2004*
Libbie Farber – Dec 3rd… 23 Kislev /Dec 15, 2014^♡
Sarah Freedman – Nov 30th … 20 Kislev^
Edith Karpf Frumhoff -- Dec. 2, 1981*
Milt Gross -- Nov. 29, 1953°
Marye Herman ---Nov 29th…
19 Tevet 5765/Dec. 31, 2004*^
Arthur Hirsch – Dec 4th … 24 Kislev/Dec 14, 1979^°
Jacob Kaufman – Dec 3, 1944*
Walter Kohn -- Dec 2°
Blanche Landau Lazere – Dec 2nd … 22 Kislev/Nov 27, 1964^
Seligman Levy – Dec 1st … 21 Kislev^
Erica Mandler – Dec 5, 2010°
Helen Marder Nemzoff -- Dec 2, 1990*
George Ott – 27 Kislev/Dec 2, 2002^♡
Bertha Rosenbaum -- Dec. 2, 1902*
William Rosenthal – Dec 2nd… 22 Kislev^
Adolf David Schlachter – Dec 3rd… 23 Kislev^
Isaac Julius Schlachter – Dec 3rd … 23 Kislev^
Tillie Sigel – Dec 2nd… 22 Kislev^
Reubin Silverman -- Dec 2, 1933*
Sidney Skolnick WWII Bougainville --Dec 4, 1943*
Harriet Smolley – Dec 3, 2019°
Morris Stein – Dec 5th … 25 Kislev/Dec 15, 1979^
Doug Sullivan – Dec 4, 2022
Lynne Zidell – Dec 5th … 25 Kislev/Dec 21, 2011^
Dec 6-12, 2026/26 Kislev - 2 Tevet 5787
Jon Samuel Abramson -- Dec 8*
Arthur Aronson – Dec 12th… 2 Tevet^
David Berkowitz – Dec 7th … 27 Kislev^
Arch Cable, Jr. – Dec 6th … 26 Kislev^
Libbie Loraine Goldman -- Dec 12, 1983*
Jacob Gordon – Dec 7th… 27 Kislev^
Bella Herman – Dec 9th … 29 Kislev^
Morris Hertz – Dec 6th … 26 Kislev/Dec 6, 1977^
Solomon (Sol) Hirsch – 13 Kislev 5693/Dec 11, 1932^*
Rae Katcher – Dec 10th…Dec 6, 1983/30 Kislev^°♡
Herman Levy – Dec 11th… 1 Tevet^
Max Mendell – Dec 11th… 1 Tevet/Dec 25, 1984^
Jeanne Meyer – Dec 6, 2005*
Joe Moser – Dec 2nd … 2 Tevet^
George Ott – Dec 7th … 27 Kislev/Dec 2, 2002^♡
Louis “Bunny” Pitluck -- Dec 8, 1998
Ben Polsky – Dec 7th … 27 Kislev^
Moses Reicher -- Dec 10, 1959*
Irving Slack -- Dec 11, 1981*
Sarah Westheimer -- Dec 12, 1913*
Dec 13-19, 2026/3-9 Tevet 5787
Edna Apple -- Dec 16, 1962*
Nate Alex – Dec 14th… 4 Tevet^
Arthur Aronson WWII Germany -- Dec 18, 1944*
Irving Beck -- Dec 18°
Mollie Buxbaum -- Dec 15, 1923*
Ella Cable – Dec 13th… 3 Tevet^
Sidney Cohen – Dec 19th… 9 Tevet 5775/Dec 30, 2014^°♡
Hy Farber – Dec 19th…9 Tevet/Dec 19, 1977^♡
Libbie Farber – 23 Kislev /Dec 15, 2014^♡
Harry Fine – Jan 1, 1973
Joshua Frumhoff – Dec 19th…9 Tevet^
Ernest Kohn -- Dec 16, 1980*
David Krankers – Dec 14th…4 Tevet^
Mildred Liberman Krawitz -- Dec 19, 1967*
Raymond Langman – Dec 16th…6 Tevet^
Morris J. Lindenbaum -- Dec 15, 1970*
Sam Lund -- Dec 17, 1980*
Bob Magoon – Dec 18th…8 Tevet^
Fannie Mendell – Dec 16th…6 Tevet^
Dave Polsky – Dec 13th…3 Tevet/Dec 26, 1995^
Sam Polsky – Dec 13th…3 Tevet^
Phillip Pomerantz – Dec 19th…9 Tevet^
Isaac Rosenbaum -- Dec 29, 1891*
Bea Simon – Dec 13th…3 Tevet/Dec 22, 1998^
Irving Simon – Dec 13th…3 Tevet/Dec 13, 1977^
Anna Stine – Dec 7th…7 Tevet^
Please note:
If you find an error, I ask your forgiveness.
Please contact me at voshellbarbara@ gmail .com or call 816-279-3179
so that the records can be corrected, or if you would like to add a name to our yahrzeit lists. Thank you. Barbara Voshell
Dec 20-26, 2027/10-16 Tevet 5787
Stanley A. August -- Dec 21*
Ann Becker – Dec 21st…11 Tevet/Jan 6, 2001^
Michelle Bland – Dec 25th…15 Tevet^
Israel Buxbaum -- Dec 23, 1910*
Thelma Carmen – Dec 21st… 11 Tevet/Dec 26, 2012^
Is Day – Dec 25th … 15 Tevet^
Lizzie Ettenson -- Dec 25, 1929*
Abe Goldman -- Dec 21, 1965*
Godfried Hertz – Dec 20th…10 Tevet^
Arthur Hirsch – Dec 23rd…14 Tevet/?Dec 15, 1979^
Solomon Hirsch – Dec 20th…10 Tevet/?8/11/77^
Louis Kahn – Dec 24th … 14 Tevet^
Bernard Kaplan – Dec 25th … 15 Tevet/Dec 25, 1999^
Benny Katcher – Dec 20th… 10 Tevet/Dec 31, 1987^°♡
Leo Krankurs – Dec 24th…14 Tevet/Jan 7, 1985^
Zena Krankurs – Dec 25th … 15 Tevet^
Dr. Jacob Kulowski – Dec 22, 1982*
Charles Liberman -- Dec. 22, 1990°
Ben Liebling – Dec 24th… 14 Tevet^
Ida Mindell – Dec 20th…10 Tevet/Dec 25, 1955^
Sol Mindell – Dec 21st … 11 Tevet^
Dr. Harry Pitluck – Dec 21st… 11 Tevet^
Libbie Pitluck – Dec 22nd… 12 Tevet^
Marsha Slayton – Dec 22nd… 12 Tevet 5785/Jan 12, 2025♡
Dec 27-Jan 2 2027/17-23 Tevet 5787
Paul Lazarus Block – Jan 2nd… Jan 4, 1986/23 Tevet 5746*
Helene Hofheimer Catz – Dec 31, 2010°
Ben Daynovsky – Dec 30th… 20 Tevet/Dec 27, 1980^
Harry Fine – Jan 1, 1973°
Lional Fink -- Dec 30, 1974°
Max Fogel -- Jan 1°
Elliott Goldman -- Dec 27, 1993*
Edward Hassenbush -- Dec 31, 1930*
Marye Herman – Dec 29th… 19 Tevet 5765/Dec. 31, 2004*^
Bernard Kalis -- Dec 30, 1992*
Benny Katcher -- 10 Tevet/Dec 31, 1987^°♡
Dr. Jacob Kulowski -- Dec 22, 1982*
Isaac Mendell – Dec 27th…17 Tevet ^
Al Rosenak — Jan 2nd …23 Tevet^
Isaac Rosenbaum -- Dec 29, 1891*
Hilda Rosenthal -- Dec 27, 1995
Louis Rosenthal – Jan 2nd…23 Tevet^
Ike Rositsky -- Jan 2, 1948*
Lou Shanin – Dec 29h…19 Tevet/Dec 26, 1961^
Sylvia Nelson Slack -- Dec 30th … 20 Tevet 5753/Jan. 13, 1993*
Sarah Smith – Jan 1st…22 Tevet ^
Ida Spector – Jan 1st…22 Tevet/Jan 7, 1983^
Nov 1-7, 2026/21-27 Cheshvan 5787
Sheiva Braun -- Nov. 1, 1958*
Louis Dolginoff – Nov 5th… 25 Cheshvan/Nov 22, 1962^
Sam Droher --Nov 4, 1963*
Louis Esterkyn – Nov 6th…26 Cheshvan^
Sam Eveloff – Nov 1st…21 Cheshvan^
Herbert Gross – Nov 5th… Nov. 2, 2010/25 Cheshvan^*
Isadore I. Hassenbusch -- Nov. 4, 1968*
Herman Hess -- Nov. 7, 1959*
Edward (Eddie) M. Hirsch – Nov 1st...
Nov 7, 2001/21 Cheshvan ^°
Margaret “Peggy” Juda -- Nov. 1, 2002*
Donald Leibowitz WWII --Nov. 4, 1943*
Carrie Meyer --Nov. 4, 1915*
Ida Naidorf – Nov 4th… 24 Cheshvan^
Lee M. Nemzoff --Nov. 6, 1946*
Richard Optican – Nov 5th…
25 Cheshvan 5784/Nov 9, 2023^°
Julia Schneider -- Nov. 2, 2021°
Samuel Harry Silverman -- Nov. 5, 1918*
Eva Caroline Spear -- Nov. 5*
Michelle Wood – Nov 2022°♡
KEY: THE FOLLOWING SYMBOLS ARE USED TO INDICATE WHERE NAMES WERE RECEIVED FROM ...
Beit Echad : ♡
Temple B’nai Sholem: ^
Temple Adath Joseph:
On permanent memorial tablets: *
To be deleted if TAJ is disbanded:°
ABOUT HEBREW AND GREGORIAN DATES
Some names may appear during multiple weeks, reflecting both a Hebrew and a Gregorian date.
Names with Hebrew dates reflect the Gregorian date of death and its associated Hebrew date
Lack of a Hebrew date may reflect the family's preference - or lack of request - to include it.
In Memoriam - Jerri Anne Brod
Jerri Anne (Brahler) Brod passed away peacefully on August 16th, 2026, after suffering a massive stroke on August 13th, 2026. She was 76 years young at heart. Jerri was born in 1950, in St. Joseph (St. Joe), MO, “Missoura”. She was predeceased by her parents, Walter & Mabel Brahler, and her siblings, JoEllen Lock and Jack Brahler. Jerri is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, Herbert Brod, as well as many loving friends, in-laws, nieces and nephews.
On August 20, 1972, in St. Joseph, MO, Jerri married her high school sweetheart, Herbert Brod. For 21 years, she was a faithful and supportive “Navy Wife”. After “seeing the world”, Jerri and Herb settled in Poulsbo, Washington, where they remained, because it wasn’t snowy, hot or sunny!
Even though Jerri didn’t have children of her own, she always made time when visiting, to interact with her nieces, nephews, and grand nieces and nephews. Because of her close friendship and frequent visits with Chuck and Mary Ann Venghaus, Jerri also had a close personal relationship with their children and grandchildren.
A perpetual learner, Jerri graduated from Missouri Western State College, with a Bachelor’s of Science in Mathematics in 1971. After completing graduate courses at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska in 1972. Jerri graduated from Iowa State University (ISU), in Ames, Iowa, in 1974, with a Master of Science (MS) in Math Ed. Followed by an MS in Computer Science from Johns-Hopkins University (Hopkins), Baltimore, Maryland, in 1980. Jerri worked throughout her life.
As a teen, she worked as a checker in a corner grocery in St. Joe. She worked as a teaching assistant at MWSC, Creighton, and ISU. When her husband, Herb, was ordered to sea duty in Yokosuka, Japan, Jerri sought-out a teaching position in Yokohama, teaching math and Latin to young girls. Following her husband to Annapolis, she worked in satellite orbital analysis, while also pursuing her MS in computer science at Hopkins. She ended her stay there teaching calculus to midshipmen at the US Naval Academy, where Herb was teaching chemistry, (pity the plebes who had both of them as teachers, simultaneously). During a tour in Pearl Harbor, she worked as a contractor for the US Air Force in satellite data analysis. Jerri and Herb ended up in Poulsbo in 1982, where she began her career as a data systems contractor for the US Army at Fort Lewis, Washington. In 1985, she joined Ross Perot’s Electronic Data Systems (EDS) as a Senior Project Manager. Jerri continued with EDS after it was purchased and absorbed by Hewlett Packard (HP). She retired in 2019 after more than 30-years with EDS/HP.
Outside of work Jerri had multiple interests. She became quite the crafter. She made her own picture frames, numerous counted cross-stich pictures, and tons of beaded bracelets, necklaces & ornaments. Her “Crafting Ladies”, mostly EDS co-workers, would take a crafting weekend in Ocean Shores annually. Jerri was also a voracious reader. Her Kindle was never out of reach, whether she was at home sitting in her chair, or at a restaurant or a Seahawks game! Jerri was a lifelong traveler, visiting over forty foreign countries and cruising the seven seas. When close to home, she loved zooming around in her two-seater sports car, licensed “HER TOY”.
A celebration of Jerri’s life will be held via zoom at a later date. Herb invites all her friends and family to attend and share their favorite memories. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your favorite charity in memory of Jerri. Thank you for your support and please share this memorial with anyone who was touched by Jerri’s life.
YAHRZEIT -- Nov / Dec 2026
21 Cheshvan to 23 Tevet
Exciting Rabbi Leadership Changes For 2027
Rabbi Brendan Howard
Anna Jaffe, Cantor & student Rabbi
Rabbi Beryl Padorr
For the past two years - ever since our opening - Beit Echad has enjoyed welcoming Rabbi Padorr to lead our services. Rabbi Padorr led our very first services and each month since, typically on the last Friday, including a healthy discussion on the following Saturday morning on a variety of Jewish topics. We have delighted in her music and guitar, as well as the tambourines to make our Friday nights welcome the Shabbat “bride” with delight. We plan to continue her employment in the new calendar year, with the addition of other leaders.
Over the past year, we have been exposed to, and enjoyed the leadership of, Rabbi Rudnick on the High Holy Days, Anna Jaffe (a Student Rabbi) as guest cantor during our Shabbat Shuvah Shir l'Shabbat service, and our own member - and newly ordained Rabbi - Brendan Howard for Friday night services.
As we look to the future, we are excited for our congregation to welcome additional leadership to provide a range of new experiences with music, singing, and leadership topics. With that in mind, the Board approved a new leadership process for 2027. Instead of having Rabbi Padorr every month, we will have a rotation sharing leadership through the 12 months of 2027. This offers a diverse perspective and hopefully encourages even more congregants to join us and experience Shabbat. Of course, our Rabbi Dinners sponsored by the Sisterhood will continue to make it a festive evening.
With the above in mind, Rabbi Padorr will lead four services in 2027 (during the months of April thru July). The other 8 months will be split between Rabbi Brendan Howard and Anna Jaffe. We plan to have Rabbi Rudnick again lead our High Holyday Services in 2027 - see his message on page 3 requesting your HHD feedback.
Beit Echad is grateful for Rabbi Padorr and the richness she has brought to our congregation. And we are even more excited for 2027 as Beit Echad grows in its offerings to its members.
BUT WAIT THERE'S MORE!!
Let's not forget our lay leader cantors: Steve and Bob. Most of the year, we are blessed to have them to fill out our Friday night services as a leader and/or Cantor. Familiar with the tunes and ritual, they are the unpaid, reliable background that we have come to expect not only for Friday nights, but also festivals and (sadly) funerals, so that Beit Echad and the St. Joseph community can have a well-rounded Jewish life-cycle experience.
However, what do we do when neither is available? It has been suggested that we have an out-of-the-box back-up by recording the musical selections so that on those occasions we can use an alternate Cantor/digital Cantor ... AC/DC. Sure, it's not the same; perhaps not ideal. But as we have found (by expanding our rabbinic leadership) - and has often been stated - the music is an important part of our worship experience. To not have anyone lead the musical part of our service, it would mean something valued is missing.
If you have an interest in joining the cantor group - and put AC/DC out of a job - see Steve or Bob. The music can be taught, the Hebrew practiced, and we can expand the lay participation that continues to make Beit Echad a full-bodied Jewish experience.
Use our About website link for information on our Rabbinic leadership and lay leadership.
Page 13 - Rabbi Leadership Additions in 2027 - ”Four voices, one tradition: a year of worship enriched by diverse melodies, styles, and spiritual perspectives."
Rabbi Yonatan Rudnick
The Dybbuk: Between Two Worlds
Page 14 - Rabbi Padorr Jewish Study Discussion - ”Read the play, summon the discussion, then watch the film: come for
Ansky, stay for the dybbuk. "
Presented in 2 Parts
About the Play
About the Author
About the Story
SEE THE PDF VERSION OF THE NEWSLETTER FOR WHAT THIS SHOULD LOOK LIKE
Torah Discussion
Page 14 - Rabbi Padorr Torah Discussion - ”Read ahead, give it a think, then open the discussion, "
Toldot (“Generations”) opens with the births of Isaac and Rebecca’s twins, Jacob and Esau. Esau sells his birthright to Jacob in exchange for soup. Isaac and Rebecca travel to Gerar, where Isaac makes a peace treaty with King Abimelech. Isaac gives Jacob the blessing meant for Esau, and Jacob runs away to his uncle Laban.
Saturday, November 14
Jacob & Esau
Parashat Toldot
Genesis 25:19-28:9
Saturday, December 12
Joseph in Egypt
Parashat Miketz
Genesis 41:1-44:17;
Mikketz (“After”) follows Joseph as he interprets Pharaoh’s dreams and rises to become second-in-command to Pharaoh. When Joseph’s brothers come to Egypt seeking food during a famine, Joseph accuses them of spying. He insists that they return with their youngest brother, Benjamin, and later plants a goblet in Benjamin’s bag.
Join us in November and December as Rabbi Padorr leads us in discussion of two well-known story lines: Jacob and Esau, and Joseph and his brothers. Read ahead in preparation for the discussion.
Do any of these folks look familiar?
Marsha R shared the following pictures taken in Taubman Hall at either B'nai Sholem or (more likely due to their age) B'nai Yaakov. She's asking for assistance in identifying any of the individuals shown, when, and the event. Email office @ beit-echad.net
Page 15 - Who's That? - ”Without names, a photo is just a picture; with them, it’s our history."
Beit Echad
A new home for Jewish community in St. Joseph, MO serving NW Missouri, NE Kansas, SE Nebraska and SW Iowa.
Tradition
Connection
office@beit-echad.net
816-341-5341
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Temple Adath Joseph
Temple B'nai Sholem