HUMANITARIAN
1) FAMILY COUNSELING In difficult times, one can
always find a sympathetic and empathetic ear in the staff of the JDC. Twenty-four hours a
day, the Greenbergs and the Labkovskis are available to help. And, indeed, over the years,
they have received dozens of letters thanking them for their support and kindness. 2) HOSPITAL VISITATION On a regular basis, JDC staff members and
volunteers, visit Jewish patients in local hospitals. A flower and words of hope and
encouragement can go a long way in alleviating some of the emotional hardships that
accompany illness
3) SHABBAT KITS FOR WEINBERG CAMPUS AND HOSPITALS
Every Friday afternoon the JDC distributes a Shabbat kit to many of the Weinberg Campus
residents, as well as to patients in local hospitals and to members of the general
community. The kit consists of a small bottle of Grape Juice for Kiddush, a delicious
homemade challah, two candles and information about the Shabbat. The JDC is asking for
additional sponsors so that this program can reach every Jewish resident in every Senior
citizen home, hospital or homebound senior.
4) HOME HOSPITALITY The homes of JDC staff are open
seven days a week. Whether they are tourists, friends, people with problems and needs, the
homes of the JDC staff is where they stay for a meal, a night's sleep or in some cases
several weeks and months.
MEDIA
5) ART CALENDAR The Buffalo Jewish community has
been raving about the beautiful Art Calendar published by the JDC. The calendar features
beautiful Jewish art on every page, loads of information about each holiday, important
events in Jewish history and a local twist: birthdays, anniversaries etc This calendar has
been sent to the entire Jewish community free of charge for the last three years.
6) FAX OF LIFE- WEEKLY TORAH FAX Every week a sheet
containing a Torah message relating to the week's Torah portion is faxed to over a hundred
offices and homes. In many places the fax is read by the entire office staff and is copied
and distributed to other places. Even in the midst of the hustle bustle of the workday,
you can learn something stimulating about our heritage.
7) T(ORAH) MAIL FOR E-MAIL The same content as the
Fax of Life is E-Mailed to another hundred homes and offices and is reaching more and more
Jews with a brief message every week.
8) LET MY PEOPLE KNOW-ACCLAIMED WEEKLY TV PROGRAM
This purely educational program reaches more people than all other Jewish educational of
programs combined. A recent poll conduct by Goldhaber Associates demonstrated that this
program is watched by tens of thousands, Jews and non-Jews alike. Every imaginable
subject, ranging from Jewish Holidays to Abortion, the afterlife, reincarnation to Life on
other planets. Both the basic as well as the exotic subjects are discussed. Rabbi
Greenberg attempts to provide both an overview of the subject as well as some profound
insights. Everyone learns something new about Judaism when they tune in to this
non-threatening and non-preachy interview program hosted by Ellen Bernstein and Rabbi
Heschel Greenberg. In the near future you will be able to purchase a tape of one of the
past programs. Over 100 topics will be made available.
9) ENLIGHTEN NEWSLETTER The JDC publishes a
Newsletter three or four times a year. Unlike other Newsletters which report
organizational news and lists of donors, the Enlighten, features a Holiday related Torah
message written by Rabbi Greenberg -- syndicated in abridged form in dozens of periodicals
internationally - crucial Holiday information, Sale of Chometz form, in addition to JDC
news.
10) SHABBAT/CANDLE LIGHTING TIME-MAGNET There is a
non-stop demand for the JDC Magnet that features Candle lighting times for every Shabbat
and Jewish Holiday, from January to December. By placing it on your refrigerator, you are
but footsteps away from knowing the correct time to light the candles. 6,000 of these
magnets are distributed annually, free of charge.
11) JUDAICA LIBRARY The JDC has a small, but useful
Judaica lending library in its JDC facility at 212 Exeter. At the present you can take out
books either by appointment or by coming to one of the regular classes. In addition, Rabbi
Greenberg's personal collection of about 5,000 volumes is available to members of the
community by request.
12) TORAH CLASSICS In loving memory of Rabbi Dr.
Samuel T. Stern, one of the founders and pillars of the Jewish Discovery Center and one of
the Buffalo Jewish Community greatest assets, Rabbi Greenberg has launched the Torah
Classics program. Each week a selection of a Torah classic - Talmud, Rashi, Midrash etc. -
is translated with original commentary surrounding it. Any serious student or group can
use this sheet as a basis for an entire class and discussion without a teacher. Torah
Classics has been used by Rabbi Greenberg for some of his classes and will be made
available on the JDC's Website.
13) WEBSITE The JDC Website will not just contain
information about JDC programs, but will also host back copies of the Fax of Life, Torah
Classics and other lectures and essays by members of the JDC family. The Website will also
provide links to other Jewish sites.
ADULT
EDUCATION
14) INSTITUTE FOR JEWISH LITERACY - TRACK ONE A
continuing, innovative program that respects your intelligence and taste for excellence in
education. In a non-judgmental environment, the first track of the Institute comprises
three semesters of three months each. The first semester covers: Jewish history, the
Jewish home and Jewish thought. The second semester covers: Jewish Holidays, Jewish Law
and ethics, and Jewish Relationships. The third semester comprises Jewish Holidays II,
Jewish Life cycle and synagogue and prayerbook skills. This program has set a standard for
other Jewish communities and is already being implemented in other places around the
world, from Chicago to Sydney Australia.
15) INSTITUTE FOR JEWISH LITERACY - TRACK TWO The
second track will take each of these eight subjects and deal with one aspect of them in
depth, placing more emphasis on texts, skills and discussion.
16) PRE-ROSH HASHANAH SEMINAR A series of lectures
and workshops representing a wide array of topics and speakers on themes related to the
High Holy Days, human behavior etc..
17) PRE-CHANUKAH SEMINAR A series of lectures,
workshops, symposia representing a wide array of topics and speakers on themes related to
Chanukah, light and education, from the perspectives of Judaism and science.
18) PRE-PASSOVER SEMINAR A series of lectures and
workshops representing a wide array of topics and speakers on themes related to Passover,
freedom, church and state issues.
19) PRE-SHAVUOT SEMINAR A series of lectures and
workshops presenting a wide array of topics and speakers on themes related to Shavuot, the
importance of Torah study etc.
20) PRE-TISHA B'AV SEMINAR Although a day of
mourning, Tisha B'Av more than any other day reminds us of the Jewish belief and hope in
the coming of Moshiach, the Redemption and the Messianic age. This seminar will deal with
these issues from a variety of vantage points.
21) JEWISH THEMES SEMINARS A series of classes,
workshops and symposia on Jewish themes and themes as well as the Jewish perspective on
themes such as the environment, medical ethics, etc.
REGULAR CLASSES-JEWISH THOUGHT
22) FUNDAMENTALS OF JUDAISM. - LUNCH & LEARN
Explore the fundamentals of Judaism in the work of Judaism's greatest philosopher-
Maimonides
23) A TALE OF TWO SOULS - The "Tanya"
Referred to as the "Bible" of Chassidic thought, the Tanya probes the depths of
our Soul, identifying its properties and capabilities, and shows us how to bring it to the
surface.
24) A TALE OF TWO SOULS - A WOMAN'S PERSPECTIVE A
woman's perspective on Jewish and Chassidic thought, using the Tanya as a springboard for
discussion and inspiration, for women only
25) PROFILES OF GREAT JEWISH THINKERS & THEIR
WORKS A dynamic exploration of Judaism's greatest thinkers and their monumental works,
such as Maimonides, Rashi, Nachmanides, Ba'al Shem Tov and their teachings.
26) TORAH CLASSICS- LUNCH & LEARN A study of
snippets of Jewish classics and an analysis of their deeper meaning. 27) INTRO TO KABBALAH
Participants will be treated to the secrets of the Torah, providing a fresh and intriguing
understanding of the intrinsic relationship between the Jew, G-d and the Torah.
28) ADVANCED KABBALAH For those who had their fill
of introductory courses in Judaism's mystical tradition. Study one of the most profound
contemporary Kabbalistic texts, known as Hemshech Ayin Beis.
29) WESTWOOD COUNTRY CLUB LECTURE SERIES A series of
lectures on Jewish and contemporary issues. Meets several times a year.
30) CONTEMPORARY ISSUES LECTURE SERIES From time to
time, Rabbi Greenberg delivers a series of lectures on contemporary issues such as
Pluralism, intermarriage, science and Judaism, medical ethics, the Peace Process, etc. at
the J.C.C.
REGULAR CLASSES-JEWISH LAW AND ETHICS
31) TALMUDIC POTPOURRI The Talmud - the master text
of Jewish Oral law - is a vast storehouse of information about Torah, law and logic. It
was written so concisely, that ever since its completion over 15 hundred years ago, some
of the best minds in every generation have made it their life's goal to reveal its
mysteries. By choosing different sections of the Talmud, you will begin your quest into
the world of the Talmud. This class will employ the ancient Chavruta (study partner)
method, followed by a lecture. Meets Sunday mornings.
32) INTERMEDIATE TALMUD For those who have some
background in the Talmud, but would like to develop further skills, this class is a must.
33) ADVANCED TALMUDIC LECTURE For rabbis, scholars
and intellectuals, this lecture will take one topic of Jewish law and discuss its
intricacies and profundities, with some novel insights that will shed light on the
subject.
34) ETHICS OF THE FATHERS During the summer months,
a weekly class in one of Judaism's greatest and most beloved classics, the Talmudic
tractate devoted exclusively to ethics, as opposed to law.
35) HOLOCAUST AND JEWISH LAW Join U.B. students in a
study of the many theological, legal and ethical issues raised by history's greatest
catastrophe.
36) JEWISH MEDICAL ETHICS A credit course at U.B.
survey of Judaism's attitude towards the numerous ethical and legal problems in the world
of medicine today.
37) JEWISH ETHICS A survey of Judaism's' views on a
wide array of ethical issue that confront modern society through U.B.'s Judaic studies
program.
38) ISRAEL AND JEWISH LAW A credit course at U.B.
that presents a fascinating analysis of Jewish law view of the Modern State of Israel and
how it should deal with thorny issues such as Peace and Who is A Jew.
REGULAR CLASSES-JEWISH LANGUAGES
39) ELEMENTARY YIDDISH Have fun at the same time
that you will learn the basics of Yiddish and Yiddish expressions.
40) INTRO TO YIDDDISH A credit course at U.B.
discussing the Yiddish language and its reflection of Jewish history, religion and
culture.
41) ADVANCED YIDDISH Practice the Yiddish you
already know and enjoy the opportunity to converse in mama lashon.
42) ELEMENTARY HEBREW Learn the basics of Hebrew
reading and comprehension.
43) INTERMEDIATE HEBREW For those who have already
mastered the fundamentals.
44) ADVANCED HEBREW For those who can already carry
on a conversation in Hebrew..
REGULAR CLASSES-WEEKLY TORAH PORTION
45) UNEARTHING THE GEMS IN THE TORAH Discover the
jewels and profound insights embedded within the Biblical text, drawing on the vast
treasure house of ancient and modern commentaries. 46) LIVING WITH THE TIMES Live with the
"times," by studying the classic Likkutei Sichot, insights of the Lubavitcher
Rebbe, where the weekly Torah portion comes alive.
BODY AND SOUL 47) JEWISH YOGA-FOR WOMEN ONLY Learn
Yoga from a Jewish master with a Jewish twist. For women only. There is a fee.
48) POOL AND PEARLS Enjoy rounds of pool with pearls
of Jewish wisdom.
49) FOOTBALL AND FARBRENGEN Watch football and enjoy
a farbrengen, a Chassidic get-together, with l'chaims and morsels of food for the body and
soul.
50) GOLF AND GEMS Come Spring and transform your
golf game into an intellectual experience with tidbits of Jewish wisdom in between holes.
DISCUSSION
GROUPS
51) WOMEN'S ROSH CHODESH CLUB Become a part of a
growing group of women, who get together on the Jewish woman's holiday, Rosh Chodesh, for
spiritual renewal and celebration of Judaism.
52) TORAH IN THE TWENTY FIRST CENTURY Join a monthly
discussion group comprising young couples and singles
53) FOR WOMEN IN THEIR TWENTIES A special group of
young women in their twenties meeting with a dynamic leader to come to grips with their
role in the Jewish community.
54) SUNDAY YESHIVAH Recapturing the spirit of a
Yeshivah, learning Torah with a Chavruta (study partner) is an exhilarating experience.
The JDC is sponsoring a Yeshivah program every Sunday morning, including a light
breakfast.
55) GUEST SPEAKERS The JDC has co-sponsored guest
speakers with Hillel, Israel Bonds and the Jewish Book Fair, who were well received. The
only criteria for our guest speakers is that they convey an important message of Judaism
in an entertaining fashion.
56) SPEAKERS BUREAU Rabbi Greenberg has lectured
extensively throughout the world on a wide array of subjects. The Buffalo Jewish community
has also heard him lecture frequently on subjects such as, The Peace Process, Jewish
Mysticism, the Holocaust, The Afterlife, Messianic Age, Medical Ethics, Age of the
Universe, Dreams, Jerusalem, Jewish Humor and a host of other subjects. Rabbi Greenberg
and other JDC staff are available to lecture for any synagogue or organization in town.
57) PRIVATE TUTORIALS The JDC staff, Rabbis Heschel
and Yehoshua Greenberg, Leizer Labkovski, Avraham Meir Shuman, Pinchas Young, Mrs. Leah,
Brocha Leah Greenberg, Chanie Labkovski & Sonia Young have been tutoring young and old
in basic Jewish skills and a wide array of Jewish subjects. Whether it is preparing your
child for Bar-Mitzvah or just learning how to conduct a seder, the JDC is available to
meet your Jewish educational needs. The people who have benefited from these tutorials
range from local rabbis and Judaic scholars, community leaders to the
heretofore-unaffiliated Jews.
SENIOR
ADULT PROGRAMS
58) TIMELESS PATTERNS IN TIME - J.C.C. HOLLAND
BUILDING A discussion of the weekly Torah portion, Holidays and contemporary issues from a
Jewish perspective.
59) TIMELESS PATTERNS IN TIME - J.C.C. BENDERSON
BUILDING A discussion of the weekly Torah portion, Holidays and contemporary issues from a
Jewish perspective
60) WEINBERG CAMPUS-TORAH CLASS A monthly class
discussing the weekly Torah portion and other Jewish issues.
CHILDREN'S
& TEEN'S PROGRAMS
61) SHABBAT YOUTH EXPERIENCE Every Shabbat morning
20-40 children ages 4-13 gather for a most exciting educational experience with Brocha
Leah Greenberg. Children would not miss this event for anything!
62) JEWISH HOLIDAY YOUTH EXPERIENCE Jewish Holidays
are not the same for your children once they partake of the Youth Experience at the JDC
with Brocha Leah Greenberg
63) MONTHLY YOUTH EXPERIENCE: PIZZA PARTIES, BOAT
RIDES ETC. Once every month 40-70 children gather for an exciting activity that is infused
with a Jewish flavor. Whether a Pizza party or a boat ride, your children are guaranteed
to have the greatest time of their life with Brocha Leah Greenberg
64) BAR AND BAT MITZVAH CLUB The JDC provides
private and semi-private tutorials for your children that will give them a solid
foundation for their Bar or Bat Mitzvah. Your child will want to continue even after their
Bar and Bat Mitzvah.
65) RELEASED TIME FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL CHILDREN The JDC
is working on introducing a national program to Buffalo. Children who do not attend any
Jewish school will be given the opportunity to take off one hour a week from their Public
School schedule and will be taken to the JDC facility to learn Judaism.
66) SKI SHABBATON Once a year - hopefully during the
winter - the JDC sponsors a weekend at a ski area. Shabbat is spent in a warm, lively and
inspirational atmosphere and Sunday is devoted to skiing. There is a family Ski Shabbaton
on another weekend.
67) CLASSES AT HEBREW HIGH As part of its commitment
to the Jewish community, JDC staff is part of the Hebrew High staff. This year (1998-99)
the JDC participated in eight different classes, with more than fifty different students.
68) HELPING MOMS WITH THEIR KIDS' HEBREW HOMEWORK
One of our newest classes, Mrs. Channi Labkovski helps mother's help their children with
their Hebrew homework.
UNIVERSITY
ACTIVITIES
69) FIVE COURSES FOR CREDIT AT U.B. Rabbis Greenberg
teaches five credited courses at U.B. in the Judaic Studies Program which is part of the
Classics Department. Rabbi Greenberg does scholarly research in Jewish legal and
philosophical subjects and continues to publish frequent articles in Jewish scholarly as
well as popular periodicals. He is presently working on over a dozen scholarly and popular
books on a wide array of Jewish subjects. The courses taught at U.B. are: Holocaust and
Jewish law; Jewish ethics; Jewish medical ethics; Israel and Jewish law and Yiddish - See
above #35-38 and #40for description
70) TORAH CLASS AT DAEMEN COLLEGE A new class has
just been formed for Jewish students at Daemen College, taught by Rabbi Pinchas Young of
the JDC volunteer staff.
71) SHABBAT AND HOLIDAY HOSPITALITY FOR COLLEGE
STUDENTS University students are always welcome at the JDC for Shabbat and Holiday meals.
Some even drop by in middle of the week for some heimishe food, counseling and a warm
Jewish atmosphere.
EDUCATIONAL
RESOURCE FOR AREA SYNAGOGUES, SCHOOLS AND AGENCIES
72) LECTURES AT AREA TEMPLES The JDC's philosophy is
to work within the community structure. In this spirit of cooperation and mutual
responsibility, the JDC has sponsored numerous programs in conjunction with other local
synagogues. Rabbi Greenberg has taught at Temple's Beth AM, Beth-El, Bnei Sholom, Saranac
Synagogue, Temple Beth Zion.
73) LECTURES AT WISDOM OF JEWISH BUFFALO The JDC
staff has been frequent lecturers at the popular Wisdom of Jewish Buifao Series. Even when
they are not formally lecturing, they are consulted by some of the speakers for their
knowledge and expertise.
74) CLASSES AT BUREAU OF JEWISH EDUCATION In
addition to the major teaching contribution the JDC staff makes to the Hebrew High, the
JDC has also co-sponsored successful lectures and classes with the Bureau of Jewish
Education.
75) CLASSES AT THE J.C.C. In addition to the
regularly schedule programs for senior adult at the two JCC's, the Jewish Discovery Center
has co-sponsored many lectures, workshops, exhibits and other programs at the JCC.
76) CLASSES AND PROGRAMS AT WEINBERG CAMPUS In
addition to the monthly Torah class, Shabbat kits, the JDC has been involved with the
Weinberg Campus. Whether it is a volunteer visiting a resident or children coming to cheer
up the residents, the JDC recognizes the importance of working together with community
agencies. 77) SERVICES AT ESSJAY FEDERATION HOUSING-RABBI SHUMAN Rabbi Shuman, a volunteer
staff member of the JDC and a communal activists, devotes every other Shabbat to
ministering to the spiritual needs of the residents of the Federation Housing complex at
Essjay. From time to time, other JDC volunteers assist with rabbinical duties there.
78) CLASSES AT KADIMAH Over the last few years, JDC
staff members have taught part time at Kadimah. In addition, the outreach work to get
Jewish parents interested in Jewish education for their children has influenced several
young families to enroll their children in Kadimah. Some of these families represent the
major forces in Jewish education in this community.
79) CLASSES AT JEWISH HERITAGE SCHOOL The Jewish
Heritage School has also called upon the JDC for support in teaching and occasional talks
to the cildren.
80) CLASSES AT THE MESIVTA MENACHEM HIGH SCHOOL The
new Yeshivah High School also avails itself of the expertise of the JDC staff Rabbi
Greenberg, junior and senior, Rabbi Shuman and Rabbi Young share in the teaching
responsibilities with the full time staff of the Mesivta.
81) ASSISTING MEMBERS OF OTHER TEMPLES IN PREPARING
SERMONS, CLASSES AND LECTURES Over the past few years, leading members of other
congregations, Reform, Conservative and Orthodox - have benefited from the scholarly
expertise of JDC staff who have assisted them in preparing classes and sermons for their
congregations.
NEW AMERICANS
82) LECTURES BEFORE HOLIDAYS The JDC has reached out
to the New immigrants from Russia, by providing for lectures on Jewish Holidays and other
themes in cooperation with the Jewish Family Service, the JCC, Federation Housing and the
Russian Club
83) WEEKLY CLASS AND HANDS ON JUDAISM AT RUSSIAN
CLUB A JDC volunteer sends his Sunday afternoons speaking before the Russian Club and
providing them with an opportunity to put on Tefillin. The members of the Club cherish
these visits.
SHABBAT
PROGRAMS
84) SHABBAT HOSPITALITY One thing is guaranteed at
the homes of the JDC staff on Shabbat and Jewish Holidays: There will always be guests at
their table. Hospitality is one of the most important of Jewish traditions and the JDC
welcomes your participation at our Shabbat and Holiday table. Just call us anytime to tell
us your coming.
85) ETHNIC SHABBATONS While every Shabbat at the JDC
is a Shabbat experience with many guests, there are special Shabbatons. Every few weeks,
we devote the Shabbat meal to an ethnic cuisine. Chinese, Italian, French, Moroccan,
Tunisian, Israeli, Japanese, Russian, Hungarian, Spanish, Mexican, Indian and yes, even an
All American Shabbat, were some of the ethnic meals that brought a hundred plus strong
crowd to the JDC.
86) SHABBAT DISPLAY Rabbi Labkovski, the JDC's
Program and Outreach Director, is known for his creativity, among his many other talents.
The Shabbat display, featuring, dolls in motion, acting out the Shabbat experience, has
fascinated hundreds. Whether at the Jewish Center or at other key locations, the Shabbat
display with its narration by local Jewish families, dramatizes the beauty of the Shabbat,
and enhances our desire to create this Shabbat experiences in real life.
87) SHABBAT EXPERIENCE: SERVICES AND MEALS Although
the JDC is not a synagogue in the conventional sense of the word - we do not have
membership and do not cater to one denomination -- we do have a Shabbat service (comprised
of Shabbat guests) most of whom stay for the Shabbat meal. The JDC is now working on a
special beginners experience that will teach the fundamentals of Jewish prayer as well as
get them into the joyous atmosphere of Shabbat.
88) FAMILY SKI SHABBATON One Shabbat we spend in the
Ski area, combining good winter fun with hot Jewish inspiration and learning.
89) SHABBATON AT HOTEL One weekend is spent in a
hotel with guest speaker and programs for the entire family.
HOLIDAY
PROGRAMS
90) SHOFAR FACTORY The demand for Shofars
(grammatically: Shofarot) at the Jewish Renaissance Fair, precipitated local Hebrew
Schools' request of the JDC to provide them with a Shofar making experience before Rosh
Hashanah. Hundreds of Children will see the art of Shofar making, and for a nominal
charge, will be able to take their own Shofar - yes, a real Ram's horn! - home.
91) TASHLICH SERVICE AT ROYALWOODS For the past few
years a local tradition was created. A resident of the Royalwoods community in
Williamsville hosted dozens of families in the area for a Rosh Hashanah afternoon get
together. Rabbis Labkovski and Greenberg and his sons have made the almost three mile trek
to bring the spiritual dimension of Rosh Hashanah to the crowd. The Shofar was sounded
(for those who might have missed a note or two) and a meaningful Tashlich service
followed.
92) SHOFAR SOUNDING FOR HOMEBOUND AND HOSPITAL
PATIENTS The JDC staff and volunteers visit the hospitals on Rosh Hashanah and sound the
Shofar for those who cannot come to Shul.
93) ROSH HASHANAH SERVICES AND MEALS As with every
Shabbat, the JDC combines its services with meals to which everyone is welcome to attend,
free of charge. There are no membership dues or tickets to purchase to be able to pour out
your hearts to G-d in prayer on the high holy days.
94) YOM KIPPUR SERVICES AND BREAK THE FAST MEAL Yom
Kippur is no exception, people flock to the JDC - without advertising - to participate in
a most meaningful service followed by a break the fast meal for all.
95) SUKKOT SERVICES AND HOLIDAY MEALS IN SUKKAH
Every day of Sukkot we are enjoined to eat in a Sukkah. At the JDC there are daily Sukkot
services followed by meals for all in the Sukkah.
96) SUKKAH MOBILE What's a Sukkah Mobile? It's a
Sukkah on wheels. For the last few years, the JDC has sponsored a Sukkah on Wheels which
has visited prisons, hospitals, shopping malls, supermarkets, private homes, local Jewish
Schools and office buildings, enabling hundreds of Jews to fulfill the mitzvah of eating
something in the Sukkah and making the blessing on the "Four Species" (Lulav,
Etrog, myrtle, willow-symbolizing the unity of all classes of Jews).
97) SUKKAH PARTIES The JDC sponsors several Sukkot
parties at different homes (Sukkot).
98) SIMCHAT BEIT HASHOEIVAH CELEBRATION One of the
highlights of Sukkot is the celebration that took place in the temple in Jerusalem when
they would draw water for the special ritual. We celebrate this day with a major party
with music and other forms of entertainment.
99) SIMCHAT TORAH BLAST The very climax of Sukkot is
Simchat torah when we all dance together with the torah. This past year (1998) close to
200 people joined us at the JDC for true torah joy.
100) CHANUKAH DINNER The JDC has acquired a
reputation for throwing a good party. The JDC has hosted Chanukah parties and dinners at
the JCC for the past three years. Many have remarked that it is at the JDC party that one
can find the broadest cross section of the Jewish community. Representatives of every
congregation as well as some (as of yet) "unaffiliated" Jews attend these
festive dinners, with music and fun for adults and children.
101) CHANUKAH MOBILES A Chanukah Mobile?! Yes, the
JDC has found a way to bring the light of Chanukah throughout the Jewish community.
Chanukah Menorot mounted on several of the JDC staff and friends cars, elicit only smiles
and compliments from hundreds of motorists they pass. It is one more way of alerting
everyone to the Festival of Light and its importance. These Chanukah Mobiles carry
Chanukah kits which are distributed throughout the community. But that's for the next
item.
102) CHANUKAH MENORAH DISTRIBUTION The JDC has been
providing Chanukah Menorot and candles to hundreds in the Buffalo community, particularly,
the new Americans, at public Chanukah functions and in visitations to private homes.
103) CHANUKAH SUPPLIES TABLE AND MENORAH AT TOPS AND
JCC Both Tops International and the JCC hosted a JDC "Chanukah Table" where
Chanukah supplies were featured, sizzling Latkes were served and other Chanukah
paraphernalia were available.
104) MENORAH AT THE MALL A giant Menorah was erected
in the center of Galleria Mall. A table was set up manned by JDC volunteers and staff to
provide the shoppers with information about and supplies for Chanukah. Thousands of people
were reminded of the Holiday and hundreds availed themselves of the Chanukah supplies at
the table.
105) MENORAH AT AMHERST TOWN HALL Publicizing the
miracle of Chanukah is an integral part of the mitzvah of Chanukah. At the request of Town
officials, a Menorah was erected in Town Hall for the duration of Chanukah that brought
the message of religious freedom to hundreds..
106) PURIM DINNER The JDC has a reputation for
throwing a great Purim party and dinner. Come as you are or in disguise, the main point is
to experience boundless joy in a spirit of Jewish unity.
107) SHALLACH MONOT DISTRIBUTION Purim is for
feasting and frivolity. But, Purim is also the time to show friendship and unity by
sending one another gifts of food known as Shallach Monot. The JDC distributed hundreds of
Shallach Monot bags to Williamsville residents, reminding them of the important Mitzvah
and the need for more Jewish unity.
108) UPS - UNITED PURIM SERVICE The JDC began a new
service for those who would like to send a beautiful Shallach Monot basket to friends and
relatives in the Buffalo metro area. All you have to do is do choose between three sizes
of baskets and for a nominal fee we deliver the baskets on Purim (weather permitting) to
increase the joy and friendship of Purim.
109) PASSOVER MATZAH BAKERY IN HEBREW SCHOOLS This
is one of the most successful examples of the JDC's cooperative spirit. Over 1,500
children and teachers were treated to a most enjoyable educational experience. Every
Hebrew School - as well as the Park School and a Public Elementary School - was provided
with a Matzah baking demonstration, showing the art of Baking Matzah the way it was done
by our ancestors in ancient times. For next year we hope to bring this experience to many
more public and private schools.
110) SHEMURAH MATZAH DISTRIBUTION Not all Matzah was
created equal. There is machine baked Matzah and there is hand baked Shemurah Matzah. The
JDC distributed hundreds of packets of Shemurah Matzah to members of the Jewish community,
to introduce everyone to the beautiful custom of eating the hand made, round and specially
guarded Shemurah Matzah. Among the recipients of the Shemurah Matzah were the residents of
the Weinberg Campus.
111) SALE OF CHAMETZ Passover is when we eat Matzah
and we also get rid of Chametz. Traditionally, the owner of the Chametz would lock all of
it in a secure place and then go to the rabbi who would act as his agent to sell it to a
non-Jew so that one would not be in possession of the Chametz for Passover. the JDC
provides this service. Just send in the form distributed to the entire Jewish community so
that it comes to the JDC several days before Passover.
112) COMMUNAL SEDER The Seder is a time for family.
The JDC's notion of extended family is anyone who does not have a seder to attend is
welcome at the JDC. Really feel the Egyptian bondage and the exodus from Egypt as
something of the present.
113) PASSOVER SERVICES AND MEALS "Whoever is
hungry, may he come and eat" is not only said on the seder at the JDC, but is in
effect for every meal of every day of Passover. Together with an opportunity to daven with
other Jews to uplift the spirit there is ample food for the body as well.
114) LAST DAY OF PASSOVER CELEBRATION Passover is an
eight day celebration. In Chassidic circles we celebrate the very last day as we do the
first. The meal eaten at the end of the Festival is called "Moshiach's Meal."
The Ba'al Shem Tov, founder of the Chassidic movement, whose custom it was to eat this
meal, intended it to be our way of living not only with the past, but to experience a
taste of the future Redemption as well. The JDC conducts a full meal with "Four Cups
of Wine." Everyone welcome!
115) LAG B'OMER PICNIC Lag B'omer is not one of the
most well publicized holidays. But, that does not mean that it is not an important and
meaningful one. As most Holidays, Lag B'omer focuses on the children. The JDC sponsors an
annual picnic with games and rides for the entire family.
116) SHAVUOT SERVICES AND ICE CREAM AND PIZZA PARTY
Shavuot is a holiday when we eat dairy foods and we gather children together to help them
appreciate their pivotal role in the receiving of the Torah. At the JDC we combine the two
by having a pizza and ice cream party for the children.
117) ROSH CHODESH GATHERINGS FOR WOMEN Close to
fifty women (an the number is growing) gather once every month to celebrate Jewish
womanhood on Rosh Chodesh the traditional women's holiday at different homes under the
auspicious of the JDC.
RELIGIOUS
NEEDS
118) MEZUZOT AND TEFILLIN Jewish ritual objects are
a very important part of Jewish life. A mezuzah on your door says to your children and to
the world, `I am proud to be a Jew.' Likewise Tefillin is our way of affirming our faith
in one G-d in a concrete manner. The JDC has kosher Mezuzot and Tefillin available for
purchase at cost price. In addition, the JDC staff will - by request - remove your mezuzot
and have them checked to determine whether they are kosher and if they can be repaired.
119) KADDISH RECITAL SERVICE One of our traditions'
most hallowed practices is the recital of Kaddish for a deceased parent or other close
relative. Not everyone can say Kaddish three times a day as required by Jewish law. The
JDC - in cooperation with a reputable educational institution in Israel - provides a
Kaddish service for the eleven months and future yahrtzeits, not to take the place of your
own Kaddish, but to supplement it. Contact the JDC for more information about this
service.
120) KITCHEN KOSHERING Kashrut is one of the most
powerful expressions of Jewish commitment. The JDC can help you make your home kosher by
teaching the basics of Kashrut and by kashering your pots and pans, dishes and silverware
(that can be kashered), or by showing you how to do it yourself . It's easier than you
think.
121) LULAV AND ETROG SERVICE For the Holiday of
Sukkot the JDC has provided the community with the traditional Lulav and Etrog for this
beautiful ritual.
122) RENT A SUKKAH The JDC provides a unique service
for the community. You can rent a sukkah from us, we build it, put it up and take it down
after the holiday for a nominal fee.
123) BOOKS AND JUDAICA The JDC is your place to go
to order Jewish books and other Judaica at a reasonable price.
124) BRIT AND PIDYON HA'BEN SERVICE Unfortunately,
Buffalo does not yet have its own Mohel. But, the JDC will get you in touch with one. The
JDC will also provide for the Redemption of the First Born Ceremony (Pidyon Haben)
CULTURAL
& SOCIAL PROGRAMS
125) JEWISH RENAISSANCE FAIR One of the largest
Jewish cultural events in Buffalo's history was the First Jewish Renaissance Fair. Over a
thousand people, young and old participated in the fun and in the hands-on Jewish
experiences. Moshe Yess, noted folk singer, conducted two outdoor concerts. A scribe from
Toronto exhibited the ins and outs of scribal art. All sorts of arts and crafts, a very
popular Shofar factory, Jewish books, food, and many other Jewish displays and, of course,
the rides for children, provided the over 1,000 people who attended with a Jewishly rich
Sunday afternoon.
126) CHINESE AUCTION What's a Chinese Auction? A
Chinese Auction, Buffalo style is a gala party, with the opportunity to win fabulous
prizes as well as an opportunity to raise funds for the running of all the other JDC
programs.
127) FOURTH OF JULY PICNIC Who says you can't be
religious and be patriotic at the same time? The JDC is known for its ability to
synthesize Judaism with patriotism and just plain kosher fun.
128) LABOR DAY PICNIC The JDC has held picnics on
Labor Day, once again underscoring the eclectic nature of JDC's programs.
129) KOSHER PIZZA NIGHTS The only place one can get
a kosher Pizza on a Saturday night is at the Jewish Discovery Center. Join us sporadic
Saturday nights for a delightful social activity at the JDC. |
