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HEArtbeat - Why We Are Becoming Plus Members

04/18/2025 12:01:02 PM

Apr18

Why We Are Becoming Plus Members

By Cheris Kline Berlinberg & Adam Berlinberg

Like many of you, the Hebrew Educational Alliance holds a special place in our hearts. Cheris grew up here and has fond memories of her time at HEA as a teen. Now our children, Jora and Micah, love attending synagogue, and we are constantly amazed by the incredible programs and the strong sense of community. This year, we are thrilled to increase our giving and become Plus Members. We encourage all those who can to join us and do the same.

With the Colorado Child Care Tax Credit, becoming a Plus Member is even more beneficial. As a Plus Member, the synagogue receives $4,956, but you only pay $2,604 because you receive $2,352 back through the tax credit. In comparison, a regular family or couple membership costs $2,956, meaning you pay more and the synagogue receives less.

By becoming a Plus Member, you contribute more to HEA, while actually spending less after the tax refund. It’s a win-win situation! Of course, be sure to consult your financial advisor. Let's all do our part to ensure the HEA continues to thrive for our children and future generations.

If you are interested in joining us and becoming Plus members this May in our new fiscal year or learning more about this meaningful opportunity, please reach out to Amy Karp at 720-390-3343 or amy@headenver.org.

We hope everyone is having a meaningful Passover.

Shabbat Shalom and Chag Sameach!

Coming Up!

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Apr 19th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

USY Chametz Fest
Sunday, Apr 20th 8:00p to 9:30p
Get ready to break Passover and eat all the chametz! Open to 7th-12th Graders

Yom Hashoah Commemoration - Music and Survival: The Spirit Endures
Tuesday, Apr 22nd 7:00p to 8:30p
HEA welcomes a special “Violin of Hope” on loan from the Nashville Symphony and the family violin from the Sladek family that survived with our member, Osi Sladek. The program will include music of the holocaust with the Eitan Kantor, The Colorado Hebrew Chorale and Guest Violinist from the Colorado Symphony, Samuel Nebyu.

Azamra + Dinner
Friday, Apr 25th 5:30p to 8:00p
Our Friday Evening Musical Shabbat service followed by a tasty kosher meal!

Growing Season Prep Volunteer Day in the HEA Community Donation Garden
Sunday, Apr 27th 11:30a to 1:30p
Did you know that HEA's Community Donation Garden is planting to fight hunger -- for our third season! HEA partners with IFCS (an Englewood food pantry), Spirit of the Sun (Native American elder food shares) and Fresh Food Connect (a national fresh food rescue organization) and donates more than 500 pounds of produce each year. The garden is also a learning lab for our Religious School where students receive hands-on education about Jewish holidays and tzedakah. This year, with the USDA cutting over 1 billion dollars to food pantries, HEA's compassionate garden work and our produce is more important than ever. And YOU can be a part of it!

Bubbe, Zayde and Me: Yom Hatzmaut
Sunday, Apr 27th 4:00p to 5:30p
Come and celebrate Israel's birthday with your grandchild (age 2-8) with Israeli-themed activities. We will make Israeli treats, create an Israeli flag collage, write notes for the wall, and much more. $15 per HEA member family / $25 non-member family

Kavod on the Road
Tuesday, Apr 29th 1:00p to 2:30p
Monthly programs for adults hosted by Kavod On the Road at HEA.

Israeli Wine Tasting for Yom Hatzmaut designed for women age 30-50
Thursday, May 1st 7:00p to 8:30p
Israel boasts a vibrant wine industry with over 300 wineries, including both commercial and boutique wineries, spanning various regions from the Galilee to the Negev Desert. Come and taste a variety of these wines in a blind taste test and rate your favorites. Israeli snacks will be served. $20 per-person HEA member / $30 per-person non-member

Silver Shabbat
Friday, May 2nd 5:00p to 7:00p
In celebration of our seniors 75+ and Israel. $18 per individual.

Men’s Night Out: Pastrami and Poker
Tuesday, May 6th 7:00p to 9:00p
Bragging rights to the winner, but all proceeds will be donated to Leket Israel, The National Food Bank of Israel. Entrance fee with dinner included (veg option available): $36 HEA member / $50 non-member.

Magic Minyan
Shabbat, May 10th 11:00a to 12:00p
A "magical" Shabbat experience for kids and their adults!

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, May 14th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

Cooking and Connection. What We Share: a Fellowship of the Greek and Jewish Communities
Tuesday, May 20th 10:00a to 11:30a
Come be a part of this lively exchange of cultures, cuisines, and faiths. Converse about our two similar Mediterranean traditions, prepare and share delicious foods from both cultures and then take an interactive tour of HEA’s sanctuary and its storied artistic and ritualistic legacy. This program is sponsored by the HEA Sisterhood and the Women of the Philoptochos. This is a women's only event.

HEArtbeat - Bringing Life to Your Seder

04/11/2025 11:57:52 AM

Apr11

Bringing Life to Your Seder

A Message from Rabbi Sarah Shulman & Eitan Kantor

Passover can be exhausting. The cleaning, kashering, shopping, cooking, and preparing often wears us out before we even reach the first cup of wine. But it can also be liberating. We have fond memories of cleaning out our spiritual chametz, discussing captivating questions, and retaining a sense of hope, activism, solidarity, and freedom that accompanies us home from a great seder. Yet putting together an invigorating seder on top of a delicious meal takes support and creativity, so we’ve decided to team up to help!

To that end, we want to share a few ideas for how to make your Passover meaningful this year, whether you are hosting or simply seeking inspiration:

First, let’s begin with music…
Music was not only instrumental to the Exodus of the Israelites, but it is essential for a truly spiritual Passover experience. In the spirit of Miriam and the Song of the Sea, you might give a listen to this playlist that Eitan recommends while you are cooking.

Admittedly, sometimes when we feel the heaviness of the world upon us, it is hard to access music. How do I sing from joy, you might wonder, while so much is uncertain about the return of the remaining hostages and the future of our own country? Dr. Tal Becker teaches, “Like the children of Israel amidst the sea, we must summon the courage to sing now.” If we can’t sing as an act of celebration, we must strive to sing this holiday as an act of faith and commitment.

Creativity – such as through song, questions, art, and poetry – is at the core of curating a meaningful Passover experience. To step out from the narrow ruts and constricted routines of our lives, we must be willing to experiment with how we experience the rituals of the Seder and the lessons of the holiday anew. To bring a fresh perspective to your holiday, we recommend checking out one of these interesting Seder supplements:

Second, Passover is a holiday based on the interconnection of people and generations. We invite you to open your doors and your hearts to welcome in someone new into your home or into your life. Unlike Pharaoh, whose intransigence led him to perpetually harden his heart, we each have the capacity to soften our boundaries for the sake of connection. For both of us, this has been an important and impactful theme of our past year.

Lastly, to experience z’man cheruteinu, a time of freedom as Passover is called in our liturgy, one needs to have time. This year may we give ourselves permission to cook one less course, clean one less cupboard, accept one less “to do” in order to make space for the expansiveness, the creativity, the freedom that Passover beacons into our lives. Dayenu – it’s enough already!

We wish you and your family a Chag Kasher v’Sameach – a holiday of creativity, connection, and meaning!

Shabbat Shalom!

Coming Up!

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Apr 19th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

USY Chametz Fest
Sunday, Apr 20th 8:00p to 9:30p
Get ready to break Passover and eat all the chametz! Open to 7th-12th Graders

Yom Hashoah Commemoration - Music and Survival: The Spirit Endures
Tuesday, Apr 22nd 7:00p to 8:30p
HEA welcomes a special “Violin of Hope” on loan from the Nashville Symphony and the family violin from the Sladek family that survived with our member, Osi Sladek. The program will include music of the holocaust with the Eitan Kantor, The Colorado Hebrew Chorale and Guest Violinist from the Colorado Symphony, Samuel Nebyu.

Azamra + Dinner
Friday, Apr 25th 5:30p to 8:00p
Our Friday Evening Musical Shabbat service followed by a tasty kosher meal!

Growing Season Prep Volunteer Day in the HEA Community Donation Garden
Sunday, Apr 27th 11:30a to 1:30p
Did you know that HEA's Community Donation Garden is planting to fight hunger -- for our third season! HEA partners with IFCS (an Englewood food pantry), Spirit of the Sun (Native American elder food shares) and Fresh Food Connect (a national fresh food rescue organization) and donates more than 500 pounds of produce each year. The garden is also a learning lab for our Religious School where students receive hands-on education about Jewish holidays and tzedakah. This year, with the USDA cutting over 1 billion dollars to food pantries, HEA's compassionate garden work and our produce is more important than ever. And YOU can be a part of it!

Bubbe, Zayde and Me: Yom Hatzmaut
Sunday, Apr 27th 4:00p to 5:30p
Come and celebrate Israel's birthday with your grandchild (age 2-8) with Israeli-themed activities. We will make Israeli treats, create an Israeli flag collage, write notes for the wall, and much more. $15 per HEA member family / $25 non-member family

Kavod on the Road
Tuesday, Apr 29th 1:00p to 2:30p
Monthly programs for adults hosted by Kavod On the Road at HEA.

Israeli Wine Tasting for Yom Hatzmaut designed for women age 30-50
Thursday, May 1st 7:00p to 8:30p
Israel boasts a vibrant wine industry with over 300 wineries, including both commercial and boutique wineries, spanning various regions from the Galilee to the Negev Desert. Come and taste a variety of these wines in a blind taste test and rate your favorites. Israeli snacks will be served. $20 per-person HEA member / $30 per-person non-member

Silver Shabbat
Friday, May 2nd 5:00p to 7:00p
In celebration of our seniors 75+ and Israel. $18 per individual.

Men’s Night Out: Pastrami and Poker
Tuesday, May 6th 7:00p to 9:00p
Bragging rights to the winner, but all proceeds will be donated to Leket Israel, The National Food Bank of Israel. Entrance fee with dinner included (veg option available): $36 HEA member / $50 non-member.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, May 14th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

Cooking and Connection. What We Share: a Fellowship of the Greek and Jewish Communities
Tuesday, May 20th 10:00a to 11:30a
Come be a part of this lively exchange of cultures, cuisines, and faiths. Converse about our two similar Mediterranean traditions, prepare and share delicious foods from both cultures and then take an interactive tour of HEA’s sanctuary and its storied artistic and ritualistic legacy. This program is sponsored by the HEA Sisterhood and the Women of the Philoptochos. This is a women's only event.

HEArtbeat - Preparing for Pesach with Yossi

04/04/2025 12:01:24 PM

Apr4

Preparing for Pesach with Yossi

A Message from Rabbi Sarah Shulman

Last night, I had the amazing opportunity to sit down with Yossi Klein Halevi for a conversation with our community. I was proud and humbled to sit next to him on our bima between a flag of the US and a flag of Israel. For anyone who might have missed the event, you can watch a recording of the program HERE.

I want to personally thank Bill and Lynn Geller for sponsoring this program. If you would like to join them in helping us to bring exceptional speakers and inspirational Israel education at HEA to all ages in the future, we encourage you to consider a donation to the William and Lynn Geller Fund for Pro Israel Education.

Though the subject of the conversation was not about Pesach but rather our relationship with Israel as Jewish Americans, in many ways Yossi helped us prepare for the upcoming holiday by inviting us to make space for fresh perspectives at our seder tables. During the program, we discussed what it means to be a Passover vs. a Purim Jew, a paradigm he wrote about in 2013 that still rings true today:

Jewish history speaks to our generation in the voice of two biblical commands to remember. The first voice commands us to remember that we were strangers in the land of Egypt, and the message of that command is: Don’t be brutal. The second voice commands us to remember how the tribe of Amalek attacked us without provocation while we were wandering in the desert, and the message of that command is: Don’t be naive.

The first command is the voice of Passover, of liberation; the second is the voice of Purim, commemorating our victory over the genocidal threat of Haman, a descendant of Amalek. “Passover Jews” are motivated by empathy with the oppressed; “Purim Jews” are motivated by alertness to threat. Both are essential; one without the other creates an unbalanced Jewish personality, a distortion of Jewish history and values.

Much of the discourse between Jews across the oceans and within our own country today revolves philosophically around whether we orient as Passover Jews around empathy or Purim Jews around an alertness to threat and how we accept or reject those who feel differently from us in this way. What Yossi emphasized last night, and what I want to bring to my own family’s seder next weekend, is the importance of holding seats for both at our tables and in our consciousness to deepen our conversation and better represent Jewish history and values.

As we head into the Festival of Freedom we are invited to open our doors–to those who will sit around the table with us, to Four diverse Children, to Elijah the prophet, to all who are hungry to come and eat. While we might not literally be able to open our doors to everyone, we can make a seat at our table for someone who offers a different perspective. And we can remember that as American Jews, we too have a seat at the table and a voice that matters, even when we might feel distant from decision-making in the Middle East.

Last night, Yossi reminded us that any American Jews who haven’t voted in the last Israeli elections can and should vote in the current World Zionist elections to elect delegates to the 39th World Zionist Congress. Why? For one, because the representatives who are elected—with one-third of them coming from the United States—will make key decisions on allocating over $1 billion annually to support the most pressing needs across Israeli society Diaspora. Monies are allocated proportionally according to the votes secured by each slate.

I hope you’ll consider joining me and taking 5 minutes and $5 to vote for the Mercaz (Conservative movement slate #17) to protect OUR seat at the table. This is one of the ways we can stand up for a just, secure, and strong Israel. Voting ends May 4, so make sure your voice is heard by voting NOW and encouraging your friends and family to vote as well.

I want to wish you a Chag Kasher v’Sameach–may your preparations for the upcoming Holiday of Pesach be as thorough, thoughtful, and uplifting for your soul as for your kitchen.

Shabbat Shalom!

Coming Up!

Torah for Today Class
Shabbat, Apr 5th 10:30a to 11:15a, Library
With Rabbi Mordecai Magencey, Ph.D.

USY Chocolate Seder
Shabbat, Apr 5th 6:00p to 8:00p
6th-12th Graders are invited to celebrate Passover with analogous candy traditions!

Women’s Seder
Sunday, Apr 6th 6:30p to 8:30p
As women, we will gather to celebrate the season with a Women’s Seder led by Rabbi Shulman. We will nosh with a charoset bar, study, and sing together in community. $5 members/ $10 non-members.

FRONTLINE WARRIORS: The Fight Against Campus Antisemitism
Sunday, Apr 6th 7:00p to 9:00p
The world premiere of Frontline Warriors: The Fight Against Campus Antisemitism, a gripping documentary following courageous student leaders on campuses that have become battlegrounds of hate, violent protests, hostile encampments, and national controversy.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Apr 9th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

Shabbat-Along
Friday, Apr 11th 4:30p to 7:00p
Last Chance Chametz Shabbat! Feel free to come when you are able for this interactive Shabbat experience geared toward families with children in 3rd grade and under. Older siblings, grandparents, and friends are always welcome.

Second Night Seder
Sunday, Apr 13th 5:30p to 9:00p
Join Rabbi Sarah Shulman, Music Director Eitan Kantor, and HEA staff for an engaging, lively, joyful, and kid-friendly musical Second Seder. HEA Preschool teachers will be on hand to lead fun children's activities.

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Apr 19th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

USY Chametz Fest
Sunday, Apr 20th 8:00p to 9:30p
Get ready to break Passover and eat all the chametz! Open to 7th-12th Graders

Yom Hashoah Commemoration - Music and Survival: The Spirit Endures
Tuesday, Apr 22nd 7:00p to 8:30p
HEA welcomes a special “Violin of Hope” on loan from the Nashville Symphony and the family violin from the Sladek family that survived with our member, Osi Sladek. The program will include music of the holocaust with the Eitan Kantor, The Colorado Hebrew Chorale and Guest Violinist from the Colorado Symphony, Samuel Nebyu.

Azamra & Traditional Friday Evening Services + Dinner
Friday, Apr 25th 5:30p to 8:00p
Our Friday Evening Musical Shabbat Service AND Traditional Service, followed by a tasty kosher meal!

Bubbe, Zayde and Me: Yom Hatzmaut
Sunday, Apr 27th 4:00p to 5:30p
Come and celebrate Israel's birthday with your grandchild (age 2-8) with Israeli-themed activities. We will make Israeli treats, create an Israeli flag collage, write notes for the wall, and much more. $15 per HEA member family / $25 non-member family

Kavod on the Road
Tuesday, Apr 29th 1:00p to 2:30p
Monthly programs for adults hosted by Kavod On the Road at HEA.

Israeli Wine Tasting for Yom Hatzmaut designed for women age 30-50
Thursday, May 1st 7:00p to 8:30p
Israel boasts a vibrant wine industry with over 300 wineries, including both commercial and boutique wineries, spanning various regions from the Galilee to the Negev Desert. Come and taste a variety of these wines in a blind taste test and rate your favorites. Israeli snacks will be served. $20 per-person HEA member / $30 per-person non-member

Men’s Night Out: Pastrami and Poker
Tuesday, May 6th 7:00p to 9:00p
Bragging rights to the winner, but all proceeds will be donated to Leket Israel, The National Food Bank of Israel. Entrance fee with dinner included (veg option available): $36 HEA member / $50 non-member. non-member.

HEArtbeat - Music.Community.Prayer

03/28/2025 12:13:34 PM

Mar28

Music. Community. Prayer.

A Message from Mark Alpert and Caryn Osterman

Music. Community. Prayer. These three words depict the essence of Joey Weisenberg’s ability to engage the Jewish community and elevate our spirituality. These three words also encapsulate the foundation of our deep love for the Hebrew Educational Alliance. Joey Weisenberg will be performing this Sunday, March 30th at 7:00 p.m. at the HEA with his band. Joey’s band includes some of the biggest names in Jewish music today including Aly Halpert and Rabbi Yosef Goldman. We hope this concert will be a peak spiritual experience for our community, one we can draw on as inspiration for months to come. Get your tickets HERE. If you can’t afford a ticket, contact our office and we will put you on the guest list. While this concert is an important fundraiser, we want to make sure everyone can attend regardless of financial situation.

When we chose to invest in HEA’s Music Circle last year, we envisioned bringing such spectacular musical programs to HEA, and it is our honor to both sponsor and organize this event. The mission of the HEA Music Circle is to support transformative Jewish music experiences and imbue every aspect of communal life with song. We find Joey’s music to be deeply moving, and we know you will too.

Several people have asked me whether Joey will be participating in services tomorrow. Joey will teach one song in the Shir Shacharit service. That service is from 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the Goldberger Youth Center. After that, Joey will give a short sermon in the Traditional Service around 11:15 a.m. The main event of the weekend is the concert on Sunday.

We are so grateful to the many sponsors and contributors for this key fundraising event, and we want to extend our appreciation to the other Music Circle members, our concert sponsors, the concert vendors such as McBoat Photography and Applejack Wine & Spirits for their generous contributions, and the HEA staff and clergy who have all stepped up to make this cherished weekend possible. Additionally, we want to thank Sherri Kadovitz for dedicating so much of her time helping with the event coordination. Your efforts and contributions are so meaningful in enhancing HEA’s cultural and musical presence in the community, and we are elated to have so many fervent supporters.

We encourage you to register for the event, be added as a sponsor, and join us in song this weekend. Register NOW.

We hope to share this meaningful event with all of you.

Shabbat Shalom!

Coming Up!

New Baby Shabbat
Shabbat, Mar 29th 10:45a to 12:30p
Sign up for New Baby Shabbat!

Selah! - Joey Weisenberg & The Rising Song Ensemble Concert
Sunday, Mar 30th 7:00p to 10:00p
Our biggest and most special music event of the year! Singer, guitarist and composer, Joey Weisenberg Founder and Director of Hadar’s Rising Song Institute returns to the HEA for an uplifting evening of participatory original music. Joey will be joined by special guests, including Aly Halpert, and Rabbi Yosef Goldman.

Yossi Klein Halevi: The Future of Israel, American Jewry & Our Relationship
Thursday, Apr 3rd 7:00p to 9:00p
A senior fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem, and author of Like Dreamers and Letters to My Palestinian Neighbors. Yossi writes for leading op-ed pages in the U.S., including the Times and the Wall Street Journal, and is a former contributing editor to the New Republic. This program is sponsored by The William and Lynn Geller Family in Memory of Gerry and Ly Japha.

Women’s Seder
Sunday, Apr 6th 6:30p to 8:30p
As women, we will gather to celebrate the season with a Women’s Seder led by Rabbi Shulman. We will nosh with a charoset bar, study, and sing together in community. $5 members/ $10 non-members.

FRONTLINE WARRIORS: The Fight Against Campus Antisemitism
Sunday, Apr 6th 7:00p to 9:00p
The world premiere of Frontline Warriors: The Fight Against Campus Antisemitism, a gripping documentary following courageous student leaders on campuses that have become battlegrounds of hate, violent protests, hostile encampments, and national controversy.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Apr 9th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

Shabbat-Along
Friday, Apr 11th 4:30p to 7:00p
Last Chance Chametz Shabbat! Feel free to come when you are able for this interactive Shabbat experience geared toward families with children in 3rd grade and under. Older siblings, grandparents, and friends are always welcome.

Second Night Seder
Sunday, Apr 13th 5:30p to 9:00p
Join Rabbi Sarah Shulman, Music Director Eitan Kantor, and HEA staff for an engaging, lively, joyful, and kid-friendly musical Second Seder. HEA Preschool teachers will be on hand to lead fun children's activities.

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Apr 19th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

Yom Hashoah Commemoration - Music and Survival: The Spirit Endures
Tuesday, Apr 22nd 7:00p to 8:30p
HEA welcomes a special “Violin of Hope” on loan from the Nashville Symphony and the family violin from the Sladek family that survived with our member, Osi Sladek. The program will include music of the holocaust with the Eitan Kantor, The Colorado Hebrew Chorale and Guest Violinist from the Colorado Symphony, Samuel Nebyu.

Azamra & Traditional Friday Evening Services + Dinner
Friday, Apr 25th 5:30p to 8:00p
Our Friday Evening Musical Shabbat Service AND Traditional Service, followed by a tasty kosher meal!

Bubbe, Zayde and Me: Yom Hatzmaut
Sunday, Apr 27th 4:00p to 5:30p
Come and celebrate Israel's birthday with your grandchild (age 2-8) with Israeli-themed activities. We will make Israeli treats, create an Israeli flag collage, write notes for the wall, and much more. $15 per HEA member family / $25 non-member family

Israeli Wine Tasting for Yom Hatzmaut designed for women age 30-50
Thursday, May 1st 7:00p to 8:30p
Israel boasts a vibrant wine industry with over 300 wineries, including both commercial and boutique wineries, spanning various regions from the Galilee to the Negev Desert. Come and taste a variety of these wines in a blind taste test and rate your favorites. Israeli snacks will be served. $20 per-person HEA member / $30 per-person non-member

Men’s Night Out: Pastrami and Poker
Tuesday, May 6th 7:00p to 9:00p
Bragging rights to the winner, but all proceeds will be donated to Leket Israel, The National Food Bank of Israel. Entrance fee with dinner included (veg option available): $36 HEA member / $50 non-member.

Selah - Joey Weisenberg The Rising Song Ensemble Concert Sunday March 30 2025 1 Nisan 5785 700 PM - 1000 PM

HEArtbeat - Important Israel Education Speaker at HEA on April 3

03/21/2025 12:01:12 PM

Mar21

Important Israel Education Speaker at HEA on April 3

A Message from the Program's Sponsors, Bill & Lynn Geller

Bill and Lynn Geller with Shai Davidai in Oct, 2024.

In Pirkei Avot, Rabbi Hillel wrote, "If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?". He emphasizes the importance of self-responsibility and not postponing actions, as there may never be a better time than now. 

To help learn more about how to act on Rabbi Hillel’s wise words, please join us on April 3 at 7:00 p.m., at HEA, to hear from Yossi Klein Halevi, a well-known author and senior fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem. Yossi can be heard weekly on his podcast with Donniel Hartman entitled "For Heaven's Sake".

We are sponsoring a speaker series here at HEA to bring in inspirational speakers to teach us opportunities to address the attacks against the Jewish people and how we can help. While we recognize the Israeli political situation is not perfect, we feel compelled to demonstrate continued support for the Israeli people and for Israel even if one disagrees with certain details or perspectives.

Shai Davidai, a Columbia University professor who is very active on social media working to protect Jewish students, was our first speaker on October 29, 2024. Over 400 people attended the event. One high school student shared that after the event he started wearing a Magen David necklace because he was inspired by Professor Davidai to show outwardly his pride in being Jewish.

This past week, our April 3rd guest speaker, Yossi Klein Halevi was quoted in the March 19, 2025, Wall Street Journal expressing the difficulties for Israel in seeking a return of its people held hostage in Gaza by the Hamas terrorists while continuing to fight these Hamas monsters. We hope you will join us to hear Mr. Halevi’s perspectives regarding the ongoing dilemmas and challenges facing Israel.

To sign up for the event on April 3, click HERE.

We are already working on identifying speakers for the 2025/26 fiscal year to bring in to continue these discussions. If you have any thoughts or recommendations, please let us or Amy Karp know.

Shabbat Shalom,

Bill and Lynn Geller

Coming Up!

Azamra & Congregational Dinner
Friday, Mar 21st 5:30p to 8:00p
Our Friday Evening Musical Shabbat Service, followed by a tasty kosher meal!

Torah for Today Class
Shabbat, Mar 22nd 10:30a to 11:15a
With Rabbi Doug Weber

Kavod on the Road
Tuesday, Mar 25th 1:00p to 2:30p
Monthly programs for adults hosted by Kavod On the Road at HEA.

New Baby Shabbat
Shabbat, Mar 29th 10:45a to 12:30p
Sign up for New Baby Shabbat!

Selah! - Joey Weisenberg & The Rising Song Ensemble Concert
Sunday, Mar 30th 7:00p to 10:00p
Our biggest and most special music event of the year! Singer, guitarist and composer, Joey Weisenberg Founder and Director of Hadar’s Rising Song Institute returns to the HEA for an uplifting evening of participatory original music. Joey will be joined by special guests, including Aly Halpert, and Rabbi Yosef Goldman.

Yossi Klein Halevi: The Future of Israel, American Jewry & Our Relationship
Thursday, Apr 3rd 7:00p to 9:00p
A senior fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem, and author of Like Dreamers and Letters to My Palestinian Neighbors. Yossi writes for leading op-ed pages in the U.S., including the Times and the Wall Street Journal, and is a former contributing editor to the New Republic. This program is sponsored by The William and Lynn Geller Family in Memory of Gerry and Ly Japha.

Women’s Seder
Sunday, Apr 6th 6:30p to 8:30p
As women, we will gather to celebrate the season with a Women’s Seder led by Rabbi Shulman. We will nosh with a charoset bar, study, and sing together in community. $5 members/ $10 non-members.

FRONTLINE WARRIORS: The Fight Against Campus Antisemitism
Sunday, Apr 6th 7:00p to 9:00p
The world premiere of Frontline Warriors: The Fight Against Campus Antisemitism, a gripping documentary following courageous student leaders on campuses that have become battlegrounds of hate, violent protests, hostile encampments, and national controversy.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Apr 9th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

Shabbat-Along
Friday, Apr 11th 4:30p to 7:00p
Last Chance Chametz Shabbat! Feel free to come when you are able for this interactive Shabbat experience geared toward families with children in 3rd grade and under. Older siblings, grandparents, and friends are always welcome.

Second Night Seder
Sunday, Apr 13th 5:30p to 9:00p
Join Rabbi Sarah Shulman, Music Director Eitan Kantor, and HEA staff for an engaging, lively, joyful, and kid-friendly musical Second Seder. HEA Preschool teachers will be on hand to lead fun children's activities.

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Apr 19th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

Yom Hashoah Commemoration - Music and Survival: The Spirit Endures
Tuesday, Apr 22nd 7:00p to 8:30p
HEA welcomes a special “Violin of Hope” on loan from the Nashville Symphony and the family violin from the Sladek family that survived with our member, Osi Sladek. The program will include music of the holocaust with the Eitan Kantor, The Colorado Hebrew Chorale and Guest Violinist from the Colorado Symphony, Samuel Nebyu.

Bubbe, Zayde and Me: Yom Hatzmaut
Sunday, Apr 27th 4:00p to 5:30p
Come and celebrate Israel's birthday with your grandchild (age 2-8) with Israeli-themed activities. We will make Israeli treats, create an Israeli flag collage, write notes for the wall, and much more. $15 per HEA member family / $25 non-member family.

HEArtbeat - Chag Purim Sameach

03/14/2025 01:15:36 PM

Mar14

Happy Purim!

It was so wonderful to see so many of you at our Purim celebrations and services. Chag Purim Sameach from the HEA clergy and staff!

Thank you to all of our volunteers that help make our Purim celebrations successful!

Purim Highlights!

The triumphant return of the Perpetually Perplexed Purim Players at the 2025 Purim Shpiel, Sunday, March 9. Watch the whole video.

Another over-the-top Megillah Reading, Thursday, March 13. Watch the whole video.

HEA Purim Carnival, Sunday, March 9. Watch the whole video.

Coming Up!

Torah for Today Class
Shabbat, Mar 15th 10:30a to 11:15a
With guest-scholar Rabbi Shlomo Levin.

Human Rights in the Passover Story with Shlomo Levin
Shabbat, Mar 15th 12:30p to 1:30p
Are human rights and Jewish values the same, or are they different? How do human rights come up in the Passover story? After Kiddush, Shlomo will show how we can add meaning and relevance to our seders by using these questions to lead a discussion, much like we might have on the holiday.

HEA Shalom Chaverim Purim Party
Sunday, Mar 16th 2:00p to 4:00p
Masks, Mocktails and More: This Purim event is sponsored by HEA Shalom Chaverim, our HEA members group for ages 65 and over, dedicated to celebrating Jewish life together through learning, socializing and sharing life-cycle events. The cost is a modest $5 per person, payable at the door. RSVPs are required so that we can know how many to prepare for. If you plan to join the festivities, RSVP to: heashalomchaverim@gmail.com and we will add you to the list!

The Role of American Jews in shaping Israel’s Future: A Conversation with Yizhar Hess
Sunday, Mar 16th 7:00p to 8:30p
We welcome Dr. Yizhar Hess, Vice Chairman of the World Zionist Organization, in a vital discussion about what American Jews are doing and what they can do to help secure Israel's future.

Azamra & Congregational Dinner
Friday, Mar 21st 5:30p to 8:00p
Our Friday Evening Musical Shabbat Service, followed by a tasty kosher meal!

Kavod on the Road
Tuesday, Mar 25th 1:00p to 2:30p
Monthly programs for adults hosted by Kavod On the Road at HEA.

New Baby Shabbat
Shabbat, Mar 29th 10:45a to 12:30p
Sign up for New Baby Shabbat!

Selah! - Joey Weisenberg & The Rising Song Ensemble Concert
Sunday, Mar 30th 7:00p to 10:00p
Our biggest and most special music event of the year! Singer, guitarist and composer, Joey Weisenberg Founder and Director of Hadar’s Rising Song Institute returns to the HEA for an uplifting evening of participatory original music. Joey will be joined by special guests, including Aly Halpert, and Rabbi Yosef Goldman.

Yossi Klein Halevi: The Future of Israel, American Jewry & Our Relationship
Thursday, Apr 3rd 7:00p to 9:00p
A senior fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem, and author of Like Dreamers and Letters to My Palestinian Neighbors. Yossi writes for leading op-ed pages in the U.S., including the Times and the Wall Street Journal, and is a former contributing editor to the New Republic. This program is sponsored by The William and Lynn Geller Family in Memory of Gerry and Ly Japha.

Women’s Seder
Sunday, Apr 6th 6:30p to 9:00p
As women, we will gather to celebrate the season with a Women’s Seder led by Rabbi Shulman. We will nosh with a charoset bar, study, and sing together in community. $5 members/ $10 non-members.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Apr 9th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

SLAK Pre-Passover Pizza Party
Friday, Apr 11th 6:00p to 8:00p
If you're a recent empty-nester or a parent of high school seniors and young adults in their 20s, join the SLAK group for a pre-Passover pizza get-together.

Second Night Seder
Sunday, Apr 13th 5:30p to 9:00p
Join Rabbi Sarah Shulman, Music Director Eitan Kantor, and HEA staff for an engaging, lively, joyful, and kid-friendly musical Second Seder. HEA Preschool teachers will be on hand to lead fun children's activities.

Music of the Holocaust - Violins of Hope
Tuesday, Apr 22nd 7:00p to 8:30p
The Violins of Hope (Hebrew: כינורות של תקווה) is a collection of Holocaust-related string instruments in Tel Aviv, Israel. The instruments serve to educate and memorialize the lives of prisoners in concentration camps through concerts, exhibitions and other projects.

HEArtbeat - Become a Shalom Ambassador

03/07/2025 12:01:14 PM

Mar7

Become a Shalom Ambassador

A message from Amir Kaufman,

VP of Membership & Security

Many of you see me almost every Shabbat at shul, but that wasn’t always the case. As a proud “know-it-all" Israeli, I never imagined that I would even consider being a paying member of a synagogue. I was confident in my strong Israeli identity and didn't see the need to become a part of a Synagogue formally. Thus, I made no effort to get involved or become active in one.

That changed when my daughter turned 11, she expressed her desire to have a Bat Mitzvah. Therefore, we began our search and decided that HEA would be the right fit for our daughters’ Bat Mitzvahs. When the pandemic hit, connecting with others in the congregation became difficult. It was discouraging trying to get a feel for the shul as COVID made it harder to feel truly welcomed due to everyone’s physical separation. In preparation for my daughter’s Bat Mitzvah, we started coming to Shabbat services the month before it. At one Shabbat, a couple we did not know (Ken & Joan Saliman) approached us and gave my daughter an early Bat Mitzvah gift. We were so excited and touched by their thoughtful gesture. Then despite the masks, the physical distancing, and the plexiglass dividers, we celebrated her Bat Mitzvah.

After our simcha, we kept coming weekly at my daughter’s request. A few weeks later something clicked for me as I desired to become more engaged and active. I wanted to somehow contribute to the synagogue and assist in places where I could help. I joined the security team, and from there, my involvement only deepened. I realized I had found something I didn’t even know I was searching for: a community.

I found that giving to HEA has brought me immense fulfillment. The more I contribute, the more I feel I receive in return. And especially after October 7th, HEA has become my haven.

HEA thrives because of the people who step up to help strengthen the connections within our congregation. If you want to help make others feel that our community is warm and welcoming for all, I encourage you to join our revamped Shalom Ambassador volunteer program. The Shalom Ambassador program is designed to help foster meaningful engagement opportunities for new HEA members and help develop a sense of belonging to their new spiritual home. Reminiscent of walking into your high school cafeteria for the first time, it can be intimidating to enter a sanctuary or social hall and worry about where I will sit or if someone will talk with me. A Shalom Ambassador volunteer will alleviate those concerns, provide a friendly face, provide a companion to sit with and facilitate an introduction to other HEA members. HEA should always be a warm, welcoming, and inviting place to daven and socialize with friends--whether it’s your first time or not. I encourage you to step up and help make HEA a more vibrant and engaging congregation for prospective and new members.

There are many ways to get involved, whether by joining the security team (my place of worship), one of the many committees, or one of the affinity groups at HEA. We hope you find something that speaks to you personally.

Lastly, if you’re not ready to volunteer yet, that is OK. Please find a way to attend one of our many events, classes, or services. As the saying goes, you don’t know what you’re missing until you find it.

Shabbat Shalom!

The Kevin Bitz zl Memorial Purim Mishloach Manot 2025 Purim Shpiel carnival and more

Coming Up!

Torah for Today Class
Shabbat, Mar 8th 10:30a to 11:15a
With Rabbi Mordecai Magencey, Ph.D. - Pesach: Questioning what you think you know, part 2

Purim Shpiel
Sunday, Mar 9th 11:00a to 12:00p
The Perpetually Perplexed Purim Players Purim Shpiel is returning to the HEA! Esther, Mordechai, Vashti, and Haman (and Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce) invite you to this FREE family event! Cantor Saul Rosenthal is the Director, and Nili Abrahamson is the Musical Director. As always, the PPPP shpiel includes a live band and lots of singing.

Purim Carnival
Sunday, Mar 9th 12:00p to 2:00p
Following the Purim Shpiel, join all your friends in the Social Hall for our BIG Purim Carnival! Enjoy fun, games, rides, and food!

SLAK Purim Potluck
Sunday, Mar 9th 6:30p to 8:30p
Costumes are not required! Please RSVP to let us know that you can join the festivities and what dish you would like to bring. Email Leslie Levine at teachbeach@yahoo.com.

Mini Megillah with Puppets for Families
Thursday, Mar 13th 5:30p to 6:15p
A fun mini megillah reading with puppets!

Full Megillah Reading
Thursday, Mar 13th 7:00p to 9:00p
We read the whole Megillah and shout "BOO" every time we hear "Hamen"!

Human Rights in the Passover Story with Shlomo Levin
Shabbat, Mar 15th 12:30p to 1:30p
Are human rights and Jewish values the same, or are they different? How do human rights come up in the Passover story? After Kiddush, Shlomo will show how we can add meaning and relevance to our seders by using these questions to lead a discussion, much like we might have on the holiday.

HEA Shalom Chaverim Purim Party
Sunday, Mar 16th 2:00p to 4:00p
Masks, Mocktails and More: This Purim event is sponsored by HEA Shalom Chaverim, our HEA members group for ages 65 and over, dedicated to celebrating Jewish life together through learning, socializing and sharing life-cycle events. The cost is a modest $5 per person, payable at the door. RSVP’s are required so that we can know how many to prepare for. If you plan to join the festivities, RSVP to: heashalomchaverim@gmail.com and we will add you to the list!

The Role of American Jews in shaping Israel’s Future: A Conversation with Yizhar Hess
Sunday, Mar 16th 7:00p to 8:30p
We welcome Dr. Yizhar Hess, Vice Chairman of the World Zionist Organization, in a vital discussion about what American Jews are doing and what they can do to help secure Israel's future.

PTSD in the IDF with Omri Barkin
Wednesday, Mar 19th 7:00p to 8:30p
Omri Barkin, originally from Modi’in, Israel, spent his formative years in Milwaukee, Wisconsin (1999–2003) before settling in Tel Aviv. He served in the IDF special forces from 2013-2016 and now runs a nonprofit organization dedicated to IDF veterans with a specific focus on the challenges of PTSD effects and opportunities for implementing nature-based therapeutic programs to help overcome the psychological challenges of combat.

Azamra & Congregational Dinner
Friday, Mar 21st 5:30p to 8:00p
Our Friday Evening Musical Shabbat Service, followed by a tasty kosher meal!

Kavod on the Road
Tuesday, Mar 25th 1:00p to 2:30p
Monthly programs for adults hosted by Kavod On the Road at HEA.

New Baby Shabbat
Shabbat, Mar 29th 10:45a to 12:30p
Sign up for New Baby Shabbat!

Selah! - Joey Weisenberg & The Rising Song Ensemble Concert
Sunday, Mar 30th 7:00p to 10:00p
Our biggest and most special music event of the year! Singer, guitarist and composer, Joey Weisenberg Founder and Director of Hadar’s Rising Song Institute returns to the HEA for an uplifting evening of participatory original music. Joey will be joined by special guests, including Aly Halpert, and Rabbi Yosef Goldman.

Yossi Klein Halevi: The Future of Israel, American Jewry & Our Relationship
Thursday, Apr 3rd 7:00p to 9:00p
A senior fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem, and author of Like Dreamers and Letters to My Palestinian Neighbors. Yossi writes for leading op-ed pages in the U.S., including the Times and the Wall Street Journal, and is a former contributing editor to the New Republic. This program is sponsored by The William and Lynn Geller Family in Memory of Gerry and Ly Japha.

Women’s Seder
Sunday, Apr 6th 6:30p to 9:00p
As women, we will gather to celebrate the season with a Women’s Seder led by Rabbi Shulman. We will nosh with a charoset bar, study, and sing together in community. $5 members/ $10 non-members.

HEArtbeat - The Gift of Taking Care of One Another

02/28/2025 12:01:44 PM

Feb28

The Gift of Taking Care of One Another

A Purim message from Amy Karp, Director of Engagement at HEA

Amy Karp HEA Director of Engagement Membership

Raised in a very secular home, the only tradition I knew about related to Purim as a child was dressing up and eating hamantaschen. I can’t say that my family really did anything on most Jewish holidays. It wasn’t until we were living in Pittsburgh with our young children that I learned about Purim in an adult fashion and the mitzvot associated with the holiday.

There are four important components associated with Purim including listening to the megillah, giving to the needy, celebrating with a feast, and sending gifts of food to friends.

We listen to the megillah to remind us of the importance of standing up to those who try to destroy us, as Haman once threatened the Jews of the Persian empire. We give to the poor to ensure that everyone has the means to celebrate during the holiday and to honor Esther and Mordechai’s legacy of saving the Jewish people. Fulfilling this mitzvah can be as simple as dropping coins into a tzedakah box, making donations of food or clothing to a local pantry or shelter. We have a feast to “eat, drink and be merry.” Sending Mishloach Manot, or gifts of food, ensures that everyone has the means to be happy while strengthening our bonds of friendship with our fellow Jews.

At HEA, we strive to ensure the whole community is cared for by sending mishloach manot to the entire congregation. It is a huge undertaking that is only made possible by you. This year, we have 21 volunteers baking the hamantaschen in our kitchen. We have 18 volunteers putting together the bags and another 42 who will be delivering them to our kehillah. We could not do this project without our volunteers.

We also are so appreciative of those who have contributed monetarily through the Kevin Bitz (z’l) Memorial Purim Mishloach Manot project as well. We take care of one another. The sponsor page this year will reflect not just individual friends, but one list for the whole community. These donations make it possible to fulfill the mitzvot as one synagogue. Donations are being accepted through Monday morning.

Mishloach Manot Donations

Our ancestors understood about living in a difficult world with those who wish to destroy us, but by taking care of one another, creating friendship and unity, we are stronger together.

Shabbat Shalom and Chodesh Tov, as together we begin the month of Adar!

Coming Up!

Traditional Friday Evening Service & Dinner for JDAIM
Friday, Feb 28th 6:00p to 9:00p
Enjoy the melodies you love at our Traditional Kabbalat Shabbat services, followed by the kosher food you love at our congregational dinner, as we take part in Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month (JDAIM)-a unified effort among Jewish organizations worldwide to raise awareness and foster inclusion of people with disabilities and those who love them.

Torah for Today Class
Shabbat, Mar 1st 10:30a to 11:15a, Library
with Cherie Karo Schwartz - Putting it all together: terumah

Hochmat Nashim: Women’s Torah Study Group
Sunday, Mar 2nd 6:30p to 8:00p
Join a vibrant group of Jewish women led by Rabbi Shulman and Gitit Kaufman for a meaningful evening of engagement with Torah and one another.

Mishloach Manot Bag Prep
Monday, Mar 3rd 1:00p to 4:00p & Tuesday, Mar 4th 6:30p to 8:30p
Help fill Mishloach Manot for our HEA households. Please sign up to help assemble or drop off bags and bring the joy of Purim to all of our members.

Mishloach Manot Delivery
Beginning Wednesday, Mar 5th
Get into the spirit of Purim and spread happiness by delivering Mishloach Manot bags to HEA households.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Mar 5th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

Interfaith Iftar: Sharing Tables for Healing
Thursday, Mar 6th 5:15p to 7:00p
Join us at the Multicultural Mosaic Foundation (14232 E Evans Ave, Aurora, CO 80014) for an evening of sharing, caring, and healing. We will look at healing texts in both traditions and share a vegetarian meal at the table. Our Mosaic friends will be providing salmon, rice, and potato dishes, and HEA members will bring salads, side dishes, and desserts. Please sign up to bring one of the requested items in the form. This is a family-friendly event!

Purim Shpiel
Sunday, Mar 9th 11:00a to 12:00p
The Perpetually Perplexed Purim Players Purim Shpiel is returning to the HEA! Esther, Mordechai, Vashti, and Haman (and Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce) invite you to this FREE family event! Cantor Saul Rosenthal is the Director, and Nili Abrahamson is the Musical Director. As always, the PPPP shpiel includes a live band and lots of singing.

Purim Carnival
Sunday, Mar 9th 12:00p to 2:00p
Following the Purim Shpiel, join all your friends in the Social Hall for our BIG Purim Carnival! Enjoy fun, games, rides, and food!

Mini Megillah with Puppets for Families
Thursday, Mar 13th 5:30p to 6:15p
A fun mini megillah reading with puppets!

Full Megillah Reading
Thursday, Mar 13th 7:00p to 9:00p
We read the whole Megillah and shout "BOO" every time we hear "Hamen"!

Human Rights in the Passover Story with Shlomo Levin
Shabbat, Mar 15th 12:30p to 1:30p
Are human rights and Jewish values the same, or are they different? How do human rights come up in the Passover story? After Kiddush, Shlomo will show how we can add meaning and relevance to our seders by using these questions to lead a discussion, much like we might have on the holiday.

HEA Shalom Chaverim Purim Party
Sunday, Mar 16th 2:00p to 4:00p
Masks, Mocktails and More: This Purim event is sponsored by HEA Shalom Chaverim, our HEA members group for ages 65 and over, dedicated to celebrating Jewish life together through learning, socializing and sharing life-cycle events. The cost is a modest $5 per person, payable at the door. RSVP’s are required so that we can know how many to prepare for. If you plan to join the festivities, RSVP to: heashalomchaverim@gmail.com and we will add you to the list!

The Role of American Jews in shaping Israel’s Future: A Conversation with Yizhar Hess
Sunday, Mar 16th 7:00p to 8:30p
We welcome Dr. Yizhar Hess, Vice Chairman of the World Zionist Organization, in a vital discussion about what American Jews are doing and what they can do to help secure Israel's future.

PTSD in the IDF with Omri Barkin
Wednesday, Mar 19th 7:00p to 8:30p
Omri Barkin, originally from Modi’in, Israel, spent his formative years in Milwaukee, Wisconsin (1999–2003) before settling in Tel Aviv. He served in the IDF special forces from 2013-2016 and now runs a nonprofit organization dedicated to IDF veterans with a specific focus on the challenges of PTSD effects and opportunities for implementing nature-based therapeutic programs to help overcome the psychological challenges of combat.

New Baby Shabbat
Shabbat, Mar 29th 10:45a to 12:30p
Sign up for New Baby Shabbat and join us in celebrating the newest member of your family!

HEArtbeat - May God Comfort You

02/21/2025 12:01:26 PM

Feb21

May God Comfort You: A Message from Rabbi Sarah Shulman

May the Divine comfort you among the other mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.

Today we say Kaddish for Ariel and Kfir Bibas and Oded Lifshitz, who returned home from Gaza but not in the way we had hoped. Today we mourn alongside their families, as the words of our tradition guide us, “among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.” Today we cry and outcry at the grotesque manner in which their bodies were paraded and returned, at the loss of such precious life, at the brokenness of our world. And today we yearn for information regarding Shiri Bibas, whose body was not returned as planned.

Shiri Bibas was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz along with her little ones Ariel and Kfir on October 7, 2023. Oded Lifshitz was also kidnapped and dragged to Gaza on that mournful day from Kibbutz Nir Oz, a community in which he was a founder and worked as a journalist and peace activist. For over 500 days we have prayed for their return.

I recall marching in Washington Park with the group Run for Their Lives a few months ago carrying a poster with a picture of baby Kfir with his distinctive red hair, praying with my feet for his return. Something about the red hair of those boys stood out to us, because when we have seen a child in the supermarket, at school, or on the playground with red hair, so many of us immediately have thought of the Bibas boys, and we always will. On that particular Sunday, another walker approached me in the park to ask: “How can you carry that photo of Kfir? I try not to carry that one. It’s so hard.” My response to this individual was, “How can we not? We must keep the image of these kids alive.”

And now we must keep their memory alive. I invite you to join me in saying their names aloud this Shabbat at services and honoring their memory. We stand alongside the other mourners among us and all those in the House of Israel. Our hearts break, our resolve does not. The Jewish response to loss, after all, is to stand together.

Shabbat Shalom

Coming Up!

Shabbat-Along
Friday, Feb 21st 4:30p to 7:00p
Feel free to come when you are able for this interactive Shabbat experience geared toward families with children in 3rd grade and under. Older siblings, grandparents, and friends are always welcome.

Torah for Today Class
Shabbat, Feb 22nd 10:30a to 11:15a
With Michael Raizen

Kavod on the Road
Tuesday, Feb 25th 1:00p to 2:30p
Monthly programs for adults hosted by Kavod On the Road at HEA.

Whiskey Tasting
Wednesday, Feb 26th 7:00p to 9:00p
HEA will be hosting a whiskey tasting with Ben Rosen, founder of Colorado Bourbon & Rye Collectors. We will be tasting single-barrel selections that are completely unique to CBRC. Appetizers will be served for the tasting, and, of course, some non-alcoholic drinks will be available.

Traditional Friday Evening Service & Dinner for JDAIM
Friday, Feb 28th 6:00p to 9:00p
Enjoy the melodies you love at our Traditional Kabbalat Shabbat services, followed by the kosher food you love at our a congregational dinner, as we take part in Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month (JDAIM)-a unified effort among Jewish organizations worldwide to raise awareness and foster inclusion of people with disabilities and those who love them.

Hochmat Nashim: Women’s Torah Study Group
Sunday, Mar 2nd 6:30p to 8:00p
Join a vibrant group of Jewish women led by Rabbi Shulman and Gitit Kaufman for a meaningful evening of engagement with Torah and one another.

Mishloach Manot Bag Prep
Monday, Mar 3rd 1:00p to 4:00p
Help fill Mishloach Manot for our HEA households. Please sign up to help assemble or drop off bags and bring the joy of Purim to all of our members.

Mishloach Manot Bag Prep
Tuesday, Mar 4th 6:30p to 8:30p
Help fill Mishloach Manot for our HEA households. Please sign up to help assemble or drop off bags and bring the joy of Purim to all of our members.

Mishloach Manot Delivery
Wednesday, Mar 5th (All day)
Get into the spirit of Purim and spread happiness by delivering Mishloach Manot bags to HEA households.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Mar 5th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

Interfaith Iftar: Sharing Tables for Healing
Thursday, Mar 6th 5:15p to 7:00p
Join us at the Multicultural Mosaic Foundation (14232 E Evans Ave, Aurora, CO 80014) for an evening of sharing, caring, and healing. We will look at healing texts in both traditions and share a vegetarian meal at the table. Our Mosaic friends will be providing salmon, rice, and potato dishes, and HEA members will bring salads, side dishes, and desserts. Please sign up to bring one of the requested items in the form. This is a family-friendly event!

Purim Shpiel
Sunday, Mar 9th 11:00a to 2:00p
The Perpetually Perplexed Purim Players Purim Shpiel is returning to the HEA! Esther, Mordechai, Vashti, and Haman (and Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce) invite you to this FREE family event! Cantor Saul Rosenthal is the Director, and Nili Abrahamson is the Musical Director. As always, the PPPP shpiel includes a live band and lots of singing.

Purim Carnival
Sunday, Mar 9th 12:00p to 2:00p
Following the Purim Shpiel, join all your friends in the Social Hall for our BIG Purim Carnival! Enjoy fun, games, rides, and food!

Mini Megillah with Puppets for Families
Thursday, Mar 13th 5:30p to 6:15p
A fun mini megillah reading with puppets!

Full Megillah Reading
Thursday, Mar 13th 7:00p to 9:00p
We read the whole Megillah and shout "BOO" every time we hear "Hamen"!e requested items in the form. This is a family-friendly event!

HEArtbeat - To Shpiel or not to Shpiel?

02/14/2025 12:01:27 PM

Feb14

To Shpiel or not to Shpiel?

In the mid- 2000s, Michael Raizen was told that putting on a community-wide Purim Shpiel in Denver would never work. That’s all Michael needed in the way of motivation and inspiration. By early 2014, the Perpetually Perplexed Purim Players (PPPP), a name invented by HEA member Leah Peer, was founded and the first of seven annual Purim Shpiels was in rehearsal.

the Perpetually Perplexed Purim Players PPPP

Originally a joint project of HEA and Rodef Shalom, those early PPPP Shpiels attracted an audience from throughout Denver’s Jewish community. The first year the Shpiel was a tribute to the Beatles. Since then the Shpiel themes have been The Best of Disney, Jersey Boys, Billy Joel, The Wizard of Oz and a couple of swipes at Broadway tunes.
“What I love about these Shpiels is how both lay-volunteers and professional clergy set aside their inhibitions and come together to put on a great show,” says Michael. “Always full of humor and with the expected bloopers of an amateur production, these have been absolutely great fun.”

Along the way Michael’s wife, Gail Devore, brought her talent for set designs, costuming and clowning around to the Shpiels. She remembers fondly when Michael cross-dressed and appeared as a Maiden in one of the Shpiels. “My favorite part of these Shpiels is when one of the actors, usually a Rabbi, comes on stage singing a song that’s not part of the Shpiel. The cast – and now the audiences-all shout YOU’RE IN THE WRONG SHPIEL. It’s become a signature moment of these shows,” says Gail.

As with so many things, the COVID Pandemic brought a halt to the PPPP Shpiels. The most recent one took place in March of 2020, just before the city shut down. Earlier this year Gail and Michael, with the help of Cantor Saul Rosenthal decided to try and revive the Shpiels and start a new series to bring the community together once again around Purim. “With the stress we’ve all been experiencing in recent months we thought it was time for some fun in Denver’s Jewish community,” said Michael.

So the PPPP Shpiel will return to HEA on SUNDAY, MARCH 9, at 11:00 a.m. This year’s is called “The Story of Esther – Taylor Swift’s Version.” It features 10 of Taylor’s songs – with new lyrics appropriate for the Purim story - and a hilarious script acted out by the Clergy and a dozen members of HEA – adults and children! Plenty of gags about Taylor (and Travis Kelce) and enough Dad jokes to make you cringe. There may even be another case of cross-dressing actors. You’ll have to be there to find out.

So come one and all – and especially you Swifties out there – in costume (especially Taylor Swift look-alikes) or not. We promise you a great show to kick off your Purim celebrations. And plan to stick around for the HEA Purim Carnival which follows at noon.

Our thanks to the leadership of HEA for helping to make this show possible and to generous donors over the years whose contributions supported the Shpiels. See you March 9th.

Shabbat Shalom!

Coming Up!

Azamra at DU
Friday, Feb 14th 6:00p to 9:00p
Azamra heads to DU to share Shabbat with DU students and HEA's Young Adults for Tu Bishvat Eco Shabbat! Service led by Rabbi Shulman and Eitan Kantor. Service and candle lighting at 6:00 p.m., followed by a kosher Shabbat dinner. Come and join us!

Torah for Today Class
Shabbat, Feb 15th 10:30a to 11:15a
With Rabbi Marlene Richter.

Bikkur Cholim Team Training
Sunday, Feb 16th 11:00a to 12:00p
Join Rabbi Shulman and Rabbi Jeffrey Kaye, Director of Chaplaincy Services at Rose Medical Center, for a training on best practices for visiting others in the hospital. This training will officially launch our Bikkur Cholim (Visiting the Sick) Team to support members in the hospital and home-bound.

Shabbat-Along
Friday, Feb 21st 4:30p to 7:00p
Feel free to come when you are able for this interactive Shabbat experience geared toward families with children in 3rd grade and under. Older siblings, grandparents, and friends are always welcome.

Kavod on the Road
Tuesday, Feb 25th 1:00p to 2:30p
Monthly programs for adults hosted by Kavod On the Road at HEA.

Whiskey Tasting
Wednesday, Feb 26th 7:00p to 9:00p
HEA will be hosting a whiskey tasting with Ben Rosen, founder of Colorado Bourbon & Rye Collectors. We will be tasting single-barrel selections that are completely unique to CBRC. Appetizers will be served for the tasting, and, of course, some non-alcoholic drinks will be available.

Traditional Friday Evening Service & Dinner for JDAIM
Friday, Feb 28th 6:00p to 9:00p
Enjoy the melodies you love at our Traditional Kabbalat Shabbat services, followed by the kosher food you love at our a congregational dinner, as we take part in Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month (JDAIM)-a unified effort among Jewish organizations worldwide to raise awareness and foster inclusion of people with disabilities and those who love them.

Hochmat Nashim: Women’s Torah Study Group
Sunday, Mar 2nd 6:30p to 8:00p
Join a vibrant group of Jewish women led by Rabbi Shulman and Gitit Kaufman for a meaningful evening of engagement with Torah and one another.

Mishloach Manot Bag Prep
Monday, Mar 3rd 1:00p to 4:00p & Tuesday, Mar 4th 6:30p to 8:30p
Help fill Mishloach Manot for our HEA households. Please sign up to help assemble or drop off bags and bring the joy of Purim to all of our members.

Mishloach Manot Delivery Start - VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED!
Wednesday, Mar 5th (All day)
Get into the spirit of Purim and spread happiness by delivering Mishloach Manot bags to HEA households.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Mar 5th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

Interfaith Iftar: Sharing Tables for Healing
Thursday, Mar 6th 5:15p to 7:00p
Join us at the Multicultural Mosaic Foundation (14232 E Evans Ave, Aurora, CO 80014) for an evening of sharing, caring, and healing. We will look at healing texts in both traditions and share a vegetarian meal at the table. Our Mosaic friends will be providing salmon, rice, and potato dishes, and HEA members will bring salads, side dishes, and desserts. Please sign up to bring one of the requested items in the form. This is a family-friendly event!

HEArtbeat - Shabbat Shirah, the Shabbat of Song

02/07/2025 12:01:03 PM

Feb7

Shabbat Shirah, the Shabbat of Song

Dear HEA Family,

Shabbat Shalom! Tomorrow morning, in the Torah portion called Beshalach, we will read the story of the Israelites crossing the Red Sea, finally getting their freedom after 400 years of slavery under the Egyptians. We will also read about the Israelites all singing a song of celebration with Moses upon reaching the other side of the sea.

In honor of Shabbat Shirah, I’d like to share with you some of the Jewish songs that have been on my mind lately. But first, please note: the HEA is collaborating with Temple Sinai to put on a Shabbat Shirah concert tomorrow night, Saturday, February 8, from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at Temple Sinai. Cantorial Soloist Ruthie Lipshulch and I will sing fun and uplifting duets from Broadway, the movies and the synagogue. The awesome backing band features David Ross on piano, Andreas Schmid on drums and Ben Cohen on bass. Get your tickets for $18 HERE.

Without further ado: the Jewish albums that have formed the soundtrack of my life lately include:

Beit El by the band Jacob’s Ladder. Track to check out: Esa Einai
Simu Lev by the band Kedma. Track to check out: Adon Olam
The Long Short Path by Marni Loffman. Track to check out: Tefilat Haderech
Chaverai Nevarech Vol. IV by Rabbi Josh Warshawsky. Track to check out: Ahavah Rabbah (co-written by Coleen Dieker)
Yevarechecha by Batya Levine. Track to check out: Sim Shalom (Batya is coming to the HEA on September 11th, 2025!)
Atzeres by Yoni Stokar. Track to check out: Hachasidim
Judah by the band Voices of Yemen. Track to check out: Ayuma Hamshi
The Art of the Cantor, narrated by Cantor Alberto Mizrahi. Track to check out: Cantor Gershon Sirota singing Schlossberg’s R’tzei

If you listen through these albums and still can’t get enough, or if you just want to be part of the HEA’s biggest music event of the year, please join me on March 30th for Selah! Joey Weisenberg in Concert with the Rising Song Ensemble. Tickets available HERE. The March 30th event is made possible by the Alpert Family Memorial Fund, and all of the HEA’s music programming is supported by the HEA Music Circle.

May it be G-d’s will that we will each experience a feeling of liberation so strong that we can’t help but burst into song.

- Eitan Kantor, Music Director

Coming Up!

A Taste of Shabbat at Home
Friday, Feb 7th 5:00p to 8:00p
Thank you to all the hosts and guests who signed up for Shabbat dinners with members of our community to forge connections, and to create a feeling of belonging.

Torah for Today Class 
Shabbat, Feb 8th 10:30a to 11:15a
With Rabbi Mordecai Magencey, Ph.D. - Pesach: Questioning what you think you know

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Feb 8th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

Shabbat Shira Concert
Saturday, Feb 8th 7:00p to 9:00p
Dazzling Duets featuring Ruthie Lipshulch (Cantorial Soloist at Temple Sinai) and HEA Music Director Eitan Kantor. Ruthie and Eitan will enchant the audience with duets from Broadway, the synagogue, and the pop world. A collaboration not to be missed! This concert will take place at Temple Sinai.

HEAbros Super Bowl Lox Boxes
Pick up Sunday, Feb. 9 from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Preschool Shopping Party at Wish Gifts
Monday, Feb 10th 6:00p to 8:00p
Come shop and mingle with fellow HEA families! Drinks and lite bites will be provided. 10% of all sales will be donated back to HEA.

Azamra at DU
Friday, Feb 14th 6:00p to 9:00p
Azamra heads to DU to share Shabbat with DU students and HEA's Young Adults for Tu Bishvat Eco Shabbat! Service led by Rabbi Shulman and Eitan Kantor. Service and candle lighting at 6:00 p.m., followed by a kosher Shabbat dinner. Come and join us!

Bikkur Cholim Team Training
Sunday, Feb 16th 11:00a to 12:00p
Join Rabbi Shulman and Rabbi Jeffrey Kaye, Director of Chaplaincy Services at Rose Medical Center, for a training on best practices for visiting others in the hospital. This training will officially launch our Bikkur Cholim (Visiting the Sick) Team to support members in the hospital and home-bound.

Whiskey Tasting
Wednesday, Feb 26th 7:00p to 9:00p
HEA will be hosting a whiskey tasting with Ben Rosen, founder of Colorado Bourbon & Rye Collectors. We will be tasting single-barrel selections that are completely unique to CBRC. Appetizers will be served for the tasting, and, of course, some non-alcoholic drinks will be available.

Traditional Friday Evening Service & Dinner
Friday, Feb 28th 6:00p to 9:00p
Traditional Kabbalat Shabbat services, followed by a congregational dinner in celebration of Jewish Disabilities Advocacy and Inclusion Month.

HEArtbeat - A Spiritual Call to Visit the Sick

01/31/2025 11:50:58 AM

Jan31

A Spiritual Call to Visit the Sick

“The Lord said to Moses, ‘Why do you cry to me? Speak to the people of Israel, that they go
forward’” (Exodus 14:15).

Sometimes we wake in the morning and wonder how such a tragedy – a plane crash, a bombing, a fire, or a health scare to a loved one – could have happened the night before.

In the moment we read the news or get a call to learn of the situation, we feel shocked, upset, and even stuck. We wonder, how could this have happened? Sometimes it feels like we have woken up far too many mornings with this question of late.

But then, if you’re like me, a different question arises out of the pain and surprise, a Jewish question. It’s decidedly not a question of blame, but a question of action: how can I help? Is there someone I can call to offer support? Is there a mouth to feed, a change to be made, or a loving message or hug to deliver? With such a response we transform darkness into light, suffering into service. We follow the tradition of our ancestors, the Israelites in this week’s Torah portion Parashat Bo, who are described as being able to withstand the thick, paralyzing darkness of Egypt during the ninth plague. While the Egyptians could not see or reach one another in the darkness, the Israelites were able to find light and companionship in their gathering places. So, too, do we escape darkness with connection, compassion, direction, and care.

It's not surprising that we feel this way. Because after all, the Rabbis of the Talmud explain that what it means to walk in the image of God is to stretch ourselves every day to clothe the naked as God clothed Adam and Eve; to visit the sick as God visited Avraham as he was recovering from his circumcision; to comfort the mourner as God consoled Isaac after his father’s death; to ensure respectful burial for the dead as God did for Moses (Sotah 14a). In other words, in a time of pain and fear, we can call on the power of our tradition to activate our hearts and hands in service and mitzvot. Faith is a precursor to action.

With this in mind, I want to personally invite you to consider being a part of a new group we are launching at HEA underneath the banner of our important Hesed work. And that is the Bikkur Cholim Team, a group within the HEA community who will support other members through hospital and home visits. Just as Avraham and Sarah were uplifted by a visit from spiritual messengers, so too will the members of our community (both visitors and those who are visited) be elevated by the healing moments we share together.

If you are interested in learning more about our Bikkur Cholim Team, we invite you to join our upcoming launch and training with Rabbi Jeffrey Kaye, Director of Chaplaincy Services at Rose Medical Center, and me on February 16th at 11:00 a.m. at HEA. You can register for the training HERE.

If this opportunity is not the right fit for you, then I encourage you to look out for other volunteer and social action opportunities through HEA that we will be highlighting in the months ahead. One of the important lessons that we have learned from our recent Listening Tour is that volunteer opportunities at HEA need to be more visible and customized to our membership. Thanks for your feedback!

May we all find our call to help those around us even in the darkest of days.

Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Shulman

Coming Up!

Torah for Today Class
Shabbat, Feb 1st 10:30a to 11:30a, Library
Rabbi Doug Weber - Who Were The Mixed Multitude?

Parents Night Out: Havdalah and Pajama & Movie Night for Kids
Shabbat, Feb 1st 5:30p to 8:30p
HEA invites parents to drop off Pre K-6th grade kids for a fun-filled night with Havdalah, dinner, movie and snacks!

Colorado Jewish Climate Summit 2025
Sunday, Feb 2nd 9:45a to 3:45p

Hochmat Nashim: Women’s Torah Study Group
Sunday, Feb 2nd 6:30p to 8:00p
Join a vibrant group of Jewish women led by Rabbi Shulman and Gitit Kaufman for a meaningful evening of engagement with Torah and one another.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Feb 5th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

The History of Zionism
Thursday, Feb 6th 6:30p to 8:00p
Led by Amir Kaufman, this three-session class explores the roots of modern-day Zionism. This class is free for HEA members, $30 for non-members.

A Taste of Shabbat at Home
Friday, Feb 7th 5:00p to 8:00p
We invite you to enjoy a Shabbat dinner with members of our community. It is an opportunity for meaning, to forge connections, and to create a feeling of belonging. On February 7, we ask that you either be a host, or sign up to be a guest as we open the doors of our homes with old or new friends from our community. If you are willing to host, you will be contacted with names of those assigned to your home by Jan 31. If you are a guest, you will be notified of the name/address of your host by Jan. 31.

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Feb 8th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

Shabbat Shira Concert
Saturday, Feb 8th 7:00p to 9:00p
Dazzling Duets featuring Ruthie Lipshulch (Cantorial Soloist at Temple Sinai) and HEA Music Director Eitan Kantor. Ruthie and Eitan will enchant the audience with duets from Broadway, the synagogue, and the pop world. A collaboration not to be missed! This concert will take place at Temple Sinai.

HEAbros Super Bowl Lox Boxes
Sunday, Feb 9th 10:00a to 2:00p
The box includes lox, bagels, cream cheese, condiments, and mini-muffins for four people. $50 members, $60 non-members. Pick up Sunday, Feb. 9 from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. This program will be supporting the HEA Brotherhood.

Preschool Shopping Party at Wish Gifts
Monday, Feb 10th 6:00p to 8:00p
Come shop and mingle with fellow HEA families! Drinks and lite bites will be provided. 10% of all sales will be donated back to HEA.

Selah! - Joey Weisenberg & The Rising Song Ensemble Concert
Sunday, March 30th, 7:00p
(Doors open at 6:30 p.m. - dessert reception following the concert.)
Join us at HEA as we welcome back Joey Weisenberg to Denver for a soulful and uplifting evening of song and community. Selah! is the title of Joey’s most recent album and is a biblical word for a musical pause, a time to reflect. Joey will be joined by fellow musicians from the Rising Song Ensemble, Dan Blacksberg, and Shawn Hennessey, featured performers Yosef Goldman and Aly Halpert, our very own Eitan Kantor, and, of course, YOU!

HEArtbeat - March 30 Joey Weisenberg Concert with special guests Aly Halpert, R’ Yosef Goldman

01/24/2025 02:56:56 PM

Jan24

Join Us: March 30th Joey Weisenberg Concert with special guests Aly Halpert, R’ Yosef Goldman

When was the last time that a song changed your outlook on life? For me, it was in 2023 when I first heard members of the band Kedmah sing the traditional Iraqi melody for Ana Elekh, a piyyut (liturgical poem) written by the 16th century poet Rabbi Yisrael Najara, who lived in Safed. This piyyut is addressed directly to G-d. Here are the first few lines:

How can I escape your essence? How shall I flee before your Presence? When I flee [from you], I move toward you; In the shadow of your hand, I rise up in delight. Yahh, your kavod fills the world… (translation by Rabbi Adam Zagoria-Moffet, brackets added by Eitan Kantor)

The line that struck me from this piyyut is “when I flee [from you], I move toward you.” If I can succeed in getting this piyyut stuck in my head, I find myself noticing goodness, noticing G-dliness, in every situation. When I remember that it is impossible for me to turn away from the divine, I access a sense of calm curiosity about the divinity in everyone and everything around me.

It is because of Joey Weisenberg that I learned Ana Elekh. Joey started the Rising Song Intensive, the conference where I heard Ana Elekh. And the band Kedmah is on Joey’s record label, Rising Song Records.

Ana Elekh is only one of many examples of heart-opening music that Joey Weisenberg has brought into my life. Another example is Aly Halpert’s song Loosen, which became my grandfather’s favorite song in the last years of his life. Joey was the producer on Aly Halpert’s album and played bass on Loosen. One more example is Joey’s melody for “Shokhein Ad”. This recording, which features Rabbi Yosef Goldman as the soloist, helped inspire me to move across the country and change career paths, moving from government work to Jewish music. Joey’s talent for bringing together the right people to create moving compositions, recordings, concerts and group singing experiences is astounding.

I’m thrilled to share with you that Joey Weisenberg will be returning to the HEA to perform on Sunday, March 30, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. He’ll be joined by Aly Halpert, Rabbi Yosef Goldman and several other incredible band members. You can get your tickets HERE. This concert is made possible through generous support from the Alpert Family Memorial Fund, and all of HEA’s music programming is supported by our amazing Music Circle.

There are two ways that I would like your help. First, please attend the concert and bring a friend. Last year we had over 400 people at the concert. This year we anticipate selling over 600 tickets.

Second, please consider becoming an event sponsor ($360-$10,000). This concert is our biggest single fundraising event of the year, and your support is essential to sustaining the synagogue. Please contact Caryn Osterman or visit the event page to become a sponsor.

Joey Weisenberg’s vision for Jewish music is spacious - it has room for virtuosity and for the beautiful imperfection of group singing. It has room for old melodies and new melodies. And it has room for all of us. Please join me on March 30, and I look forward to connecting with you soon.

Shabbat Shalom!

Eitan Kantor, HEA Music Director

Coming Up!

Azamra
Friday, Jan 24th 5:30p to 8:30p
Our Friday evening musical service and dinner!

Adult Beginning Hebrew Class
Sunday, Jan 26th 11:00a to 12:00p
This eight-week course is intended for the new or novice Hebrew reading student. This is not a conversational Hebrew course. There is no cost for this class for HEA members, but you must register below and pay a $15 book fee. $40 for non-members. The course is taught by Jessica Weber.

Kavod on the Road
Tuesday, Jan 28th 1:00p to 2:30p
Monthly programs for adults hosted by Kavod On the Road at HEA.

Parents Night Out: Havdalah and Pajama & Movie Night for Kids
Shabbat, Feb 1st 5:30p to 8:30p
HEA invites parents to drop off Pre K-6th grade kids for a fun-filled night with Havdalah, dinner, movie and snacks!

Colorado Jewish Climate Summit 2025
Sunday, Feb 2nd 9:45a to 3:45p

Hochmat Nashim: Women’s Torah Study Group
Sunday, Feb 2nd 6:30p to 8:00p
Join a vibrant group of Jewish women led by Rabbi Shulman and Gitit Kaufman for a meaningful evening of engagement with Torah and one another.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Feb 5th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

The History of Zionism
Thursday, Feb 6th 6:30p to 8:00p
Led by Amir Kaufman, this three-session class explores the roots of modern-day Zionism. This class is free for HEA members, $30 for non-members.

A Taste of Shabbat at Home
Friday, Feb 7th 5:00p to 8:00p
We invite you to enjoy a Shabbat dinner with members of our community. It is an opportunity for meaning, to forge connections, and to create a feeling of belonging. On February 7, we ask that you either be a host, or sign up to be a guest as we open the doors of our homes with old or new friends from our community. If you are willing to host, you will be contacted with names of those assigned to your home by Jan 31. If you are a guest, you will be notified of the name/address of your host by Jan. 31.

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Feb 8th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

Shabbat Shira Concert
Motzei Shabbat, Feb 8th 7:00p to 9:00p
Dazzling Duets featuring Ruthie Lipshulch (Cantorial Soloist at Temple Sinai) and HEA Music Director Eitan Kantor. Ruthie and Eitan will enchant the audience with duets from Broadway, the synagogue, and the pop world. A collaboration not to be missed! This concert will take place at Temple Sinai.

HEAbros Super Bowl Lox Boxes
Sunday, Feb 9th 10:00a to 2:00p
The box includes lox, bagels, cream cheese, condiments, and mini-muffins for four people. $50 members, $60 non-members. Pick up Sunday, Feb. 9 from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. This program will be supporting the HEA Brotherhood.

HEArtbeat - Sisterhood Winter Update

01/17/2025 12:00:26 PM

Jan17

As mentioned by Rabbi Shulman in last week’s HEArtbeat, we are elated to have reached our 2024 Pathways goal. Our accounting team has been busy sending out tax forms this week to our 2024 donors. While we appreciate the ongoing generosity of our members and other donors, per IRS requirements, we needed to set a deadline for 2024 tax eligibility of January 10, 2025. Any donations dated for 2024 but received after the January 10, 2025 date will be applied toward the 2025 tax year. Please reach out to Steve Levine at steve@headenver.org with any questions.

HEA Sisterhood Winter Update

Thank you to everyone who helped sponsor and assemble the Healing Arts Kits project. We had 75 kits sponsored, and we had them put together in record time. A special thank you to the SLAK ladies and religious school families for all their help!! The kits are on their way to help the Israeli children traumatized by the war.

The First sibling latke cook off at the Hanukkah Bash on December 29 was a success! We're glad to have Brotherhood back! You won this year, but watch out for next year!!!! 😊 Thank you to Amy for organizing such a fun evening.

We also want to give a big thank you to Rick Rubin for loaning some of his amazing dreidels from his collection for our Sisterhood display window.

The Victorious HEAbros!

Discover the many ways you can effortlessly support HEA through your purchasing

By doing your Judaica, gift, and wine shopping with the following online shops, 5% of your purchases will automatically support the HEA Sisterhood:
Kosher.com – large selection of kosher wine
Judaica.com – traditional Judaica gifts
ChallahandCo.com – nuts, candies, and gift boxes

Kosherwine.com offers free shipping for a case (12 bottles). Why not split a case with friends? Cases can be mixed. Go online and take a look! Join their mailing list and have promotions sent to your inbox. Just enter your email address in the "Get Exclusive Offers" area at the bottom of their webpage.

RaiseRight Mobile Gift Card App
Order your gift cards today by using the new app, ordering online, or emailing Sisterhood.Click HERE to learn more about the “RaiseRight Fundraising” app. Download it from The App Store or Google Play Store. Our Organization code is 99661FC433568.

King Soopers Rewards 
5% OF YOUR PURCHASES AUTOMATICALLY GO TO SISTERHOOD!
Set up a digital account at www.kingsoopers.com, using your Sooper Card number (found on the back of your King Soopers card) or the alternate number you use at the register. (You can also download digital coupons!)
Under the ‘Save’ tab, select ‘Community Rewards’.
Search for Hebrew Educational Alliance, or type in the code CX557.
That’s it! Now, every time you type in your Sooper Card at the register, 5% of your purchase goes to the Sisterhood!

The HEArt of Cooking Cookbook and Apron for Sale

Upcoming Sisterhood Happenings

Temple Emanuel Joint Sisterhood Event – Tissue Paper Collage Experience
Thurs., Feb. 13, 6:00 p.m.
Join us and Temple Emanuel’s Sisterhood for an experience using collage tissue papers to express how we feel when we pray. No art ability is required, just tearing and gluing beautiful layers of tissue paper. The cost of the event is $10.00. RSVP by February 6th. Questions: Please contact Claudia Trevithick at Claudia.trevithick@gmail.com.

Shalom & Opa Event with Cherie Karo Schwartz)
Tuesday, Feb. 25, 10:00 a.m.
A joint meet and greet program with the Greek Philoptochos group. We will cook a bit, schmooze, and watch a film on Greek Jews. Watch your email for sign up.

Hamentaschen Baking for Shaloach Manot
Save the Date: Sun., March 2
Join Sisterhood for hamantaschen baking for the congregational Shaloach Manot bags.

More events are on their way! Watch for dates and times for our annual Pesach Cook & Drash, Youth Led Shabbat, Women’s Seder and Sisterhood’s Annual Tea.

Do you like to cook? Join HESED and help cook for our families in need. Contact Jill Levy for more information.

Coming Up!

Magic Minyan
Shabbat, Jan 18th 11:00a to 12:00p
A "magical" Shabbat experience for kids and their adults!

Book Review - Lovers in Auschwitz: A True Story
Tuesday, Jan 21st 7:00p to 9:00p
Lovers in Auschwitz: A True Story by Keren Blankfeld. An in-person event with the author as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. A saga of two young people who found themselves trapped inside a waking nightmare of the Nazis’ creation, yet who nevertheless discovered a love that sustained them through history’s darkest hour. This program is
co-sponsored with the Greater Denver Chapter of Hadassah.

Azamra
Friday, Jan 24th 5:30p to 8:30p
Our Friday evening musical service and dinner!

Adult Beginning Hebrew Class
Sunday, Jan 26th 11:00a to 12:00p
This eight-week course is intended for the new or novice Hebrew reading
student. This is not a conversational Hebrew course. There is no cost for this class for HEA members, but you must register below and pay a $15 book fee. $40 for non-members. The course is taught by Jessica Weber.

Kavod on the Road
Tuesday, Jan 28th 1:00p to 2:30p
Monthly programs for adults hosted by Kavod On the Road at HEA. This session features Jazz musician Michael Friedman.

Parents Night Out: Havdalah and Pajama & Movie Night for Kids
Sat. evening, Feb 1st 5:30p to 8:30p
HEA invites parents to drop off Pre K-6th grade kids for a fun-filled night with Havdalah, dinner, movie and snacks!

Hochmat Nashim: Women’s Torah Study Group
Sunday, Feb 2nd 6:30p to 8:00p
Join a vibrant group of Jewish women led by Rabbi Shulman and Gitit Kaufman for a meaningful evening of engagement with Torah and one another.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Feb 5th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

The History of Zionism
Thursday, Feb 6th 6:30p to 8:00p
Led by Amir Kaufman, this three-session class explores the roots of modern-day Zionism. This class is free for HEA members, $30 for non-members.

A Taste of Shabbat at Home
Friday, Feb 7th 5:00p to 8:00p
We invite you to enjoy a Shabbat dinner with members of our community. It is an opportunity for meaning, to forge connections, and to create a feeling of belonging. On February 7, we ask that you either be a host, or sign up to be a guest as we open the doors of our homes with old or new friends from our community. If you are willing to host, you will be contacted with names of those assigned to your home by Jan 31. If you are a guest, you will be notified of the name/address of your host by Jan. 31.

HEArtbeat - Thank You to All Our Supporters

01/10/2025 12:00:44 PM

Jan10

Rabbi Sarah Shulman: Thank You to All Our Supporters!

As 2025 rolls in, we have great news to share with the HEA community: we have exceeded our goal of raising $400,000 for the Pathways Campaign, thanks to all of you! We want to thank each and every person who contributed to this important campaign to sustain our vibrant community. Todah Rabbah!

We are thrilled to have welcomed nearly 100 new donor families to our team of supporters of the Pathways Campaign this year.

Your contributions to HEA enable us to expand our programmatic offerings, elevate our spiritual and educational services, enhance our security, and support our dedicated HEA professionals who serve you week after week. We want to extend our appreciation to all those who made videos, phone calls, and stepped up to assist this successful annual campaign.

For those who have questions about finalizing your pledges, please reach out to Steve Levine, (720) 201-4685. If you didn’t get a chance to make your contribution yet to the Pathways Campaign, you can do so HERE.

As our hearts fill with gratitude for the blessings in our community, we turn our prayers to the thousands of people who have been impacted or forced to flee their homes in the Los Angeles area this week. May they find shelter and comfort this Shabbat. May the firefighters find strength, resilience, and much needed water. And may we all find hope to accompany us and fresh air to breathe in the year to come.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Shulman, and
Steve Levine, CEO
Peter Gottlieb, VP Development
Evan Kline, Board Chair

TAX STATEMENTS ON THE WAY: 2024 Tax statements were sent via email earlier this week, and the child care contribution credit certificates are being mailed today.

Coming Up!

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Jan 11th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

Tikkun Olam - Homeless Bags
Sunday, Jan 12th 12:00p to 1:30p
Join the Tikkun Olam group in the GYC to put together bags for the homeless in and around the Denver area.

Hochmat Nashim: Women’s Torah Study Group
Sunday, Jan 12th 6:30p to 8:00p
Join a vibrant group of Jewish women led by Rabbi Shulman and Gitit Kaufman for a meaningful evening of engagement with Torah and one another.

Parent Information Night in Partnership with Sungate Kids
Tuesday, Jan 14th 5:00p to 6:30p
Empowering Young Children to be Safe From Abuse. In this unique program, we’ll help you learn the right way to broach the subject of child sexual abuse, the correct language to use, how to answer tough questions, and what to do if you suspect abuse has occurred. It’s a powerful way for you to be armed with the best information and tools to keep your child safe.

Life & Legacy Ed Series: Death & Dying
Wednesday, Jan 15th 12:00p to 1:30p
If you watched last year’s movie, Barbie, or even the trailer, the moment when Barbie asks her friends, “do you guys ever think about dying?”, is both hilarious and cringeworthy. It’s not every day we talk about or even think about death. And when we do, it’s rarely about our own mortality! This program is designed to help people be less afraid of death, sharing insights and approaches on how to have those difficult conversations. With guest speaker, Jamie Sarche. $10 for HEA Members, $15 for Non-Members.

An Evening of Paint Gem
Wednesday, Jan 15th 7:00p to 8:30p
Join the next ladies-out program, designed for ages 30-50, for an evening of relaxation as we paint with gems and schmooze. We will have several different designs to follow, with all the gems and applicators available that evening, along with wine and cheese of course. Cost is $10 member, $20 non-member.

Magic Minyan
Shabbat, Jan 18th 11:00a to 12:00p
A "magical" Shabbat experience for kids and their adults!

Book Review - Lovers in Auschwitz: A True Story
Tuesday, Jan 21st 7:00p to 9:00p
Lovers in Auschwitz: A True Story by Keren Blankfeld. An in-person event with the author as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. A saga of two young people who found themselves trapped inside a waking nightmare of the Nazis’ creation, yet who nevertheless discovered a love that sustained them through history’s darkest hour. This program is co-sponsored with the Greater Denver Chapter of Hadassah.

Azamra
Friday, Jan 24th 5:30p to 8:30p
Our Friday evening musical service and dinner!

Adult Beginning Hebrew Class
Sunday, Jan 26th 11:00a to 12:00p
This eight-week course is intended for the new or novice Hebrew reading student. This is not a conversational Hebrew course. There is no cost for this class for HEA members, but you must register below and pay a $15 book fee. $40 for non-members. The course is taught by Jessica Weber.

HEArtbeat - What does HEA mean to our Teens?

12/27/2024 12:00:35 PM

Dec27

What does HEA mean to our Teens?

As we light up our homes with the candles of the third night of Hanukkah, we are grateful for the light of community. We want to thank everyone who has already contributed to the Pathways Campaign to help us towards our goal of raising $400,000 to support our programs, including those who benefit the next generation of Jewish leaders. We have almost reached our goal! If you haven’t already given, please join us in making a meaningful gift to help us cross the finish line this Hanukkah.

We invite you to light up your day with this video message from our USY teen leadership who want to tell you all what HEA means to them!

All donations received by December 31, 2024, will be DOUBLED by a generous group of families in our community. Moreover, donations may be eligible for the Colorado Childcare Tax Credit.

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

Coming Up!

Hanukkah Bash
Sunday, Dec 29th 5:00p to 6:30p
Happy Hanukkah from the HEA clergy, board and staff! Check out what's in store for us at the Hanukkah Bash. We hope to see you there!
* A creative latke cooking contest where the latkes are unique, and the votes are cast by YOU.
* Crafts for the kids
* A puppet show featuring Michael Wurzman at 5:30 p.m.
* Candle lighting and songs, a sufganyot experiment, dreidels, blanket-making for a shelter, gelt, and much more!

$10 per member family, $20 non-member family. Or, $5 per member individual; $10 per non-member individual.

Listening Tour
Tuesday, Jan 7th 7:00p to 8:30p
Small gatherings at the homes of members to get to know the HEA leadership, ask questions, and share your vision of HEA. This session is geared toward young adults, and is located in the 80237 area code.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Jan 8th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

Movie Night: Seven Blessings
Thursday, Jan 9th 6:30p to 8:30p
Seven Blessings revolves around an eventful Jewish Moroccan family wedding and the traditional blessings that are pronounced during the ceremony, again at the reception, and then again for the next seven nights with loved ones hosting special dinners in the couple’s honor. Behind the facade of joie de vivre and togetherness, there are secrets, lies, and a painful old wound that forces them to confront the past, while wrecking the present, all entwined in this acclaimed story about fury, forgiveness, and food. NOTE: This is a screening of a film that is not yet released, therefore there is a charge for this film.

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Jan 11th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

Hochmat Nashim: Women’s Torah Study Group
Sunday, Jan 12th 6:30p to 8:00p
Join a vibrant group of Jewish women led by Rabbi Shulman and Gitit Kaufman for a meaningful evening of engagement with Torah and one another.

Life & Legacy Ed Series: Death & Dying
Wednesday, Jan 15th 12:00p to 1:30p
If you watched last year’s movie, Barbie, or even the trailer, the moment when Barbie asks her friends, “do you guys ever think about dying?”, is both hilarious and cringeworthy. It’s not every day we talk about or even think about death. And when we do, it’s rarely about our own mortality! This program is designed to help people be less afraid of death, sharing insights and approaches on how to have those difficult conversations. With guest speaker, Jamie Sarche. $10 for HEA Members, $15 for Non-Members.

An Evening of Paint Gem
Wednesday, Jan 15th 7:00p to 8:30p
Join the next ladies-out program, designed for ages 30-50, for an evening of relaxation as we paint with gems and schmooze. We will have several different designs to follow, with all the gems and applicators available that evening, along with wine and cheese of course. Cost is $10 member, $20 non-member.

Book Review - Lovers in Auschwitz: A True Story
Tuesday, Jan 21st 7:00p to 9:00p
Lovers in Auschwitz: A True Story by Keren Blankfeld. An in-person event with the author as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. A saga of two young people who found themselves trapped inside a waking nightmare of the Nazis’ creation, yet who nevertheless discovered a love that sustained them through history’s darkest hour. This program is co-sponsored with the Greater Denver Chapter of Hadassah.

Azamra
Friday, Jan 24th 5:30p to 8:30p
Our Friday evening musical service and dinner!

Adult Beginning Hebrew Class
Sunday, Jan 26th 11:00a to 12:00p
This eight-week course is intended for the new or novice Hebrew student. The is no cost for this class for HEA members, but you must register below and pay a $15 book fee. $40 for non-members. The course is taught by Jessica Weber.

The History of Zionism
Thursday, Feb 6th 6:30p to 8:00p
Led by Amir Kaufman, this three-session class explores the roots of modern-day Zionism. This class is free for HEA members, $30 for non-members.

Behind every program from Shai Davidai to High Holidays services to Tot Shabbat are a team of hardworking staff and security members a building to operate supplies and food to purchase and numerous other expenses. This year we invite you to actively engage in the meaningful programs at HEA to enrich your life. And we ask you to invest in our vibrant congregation with a meaningful gift to the Pathways Campaign to support our staff operating expenses scholarships and amazing programs. What you may not know is that membership dues only cover 70 of our operating expenses. The rest is based on your generously to build a bright future at HEA together. We are excited to announce that the 2024 Pathways Campaign has launched. All donations received by December 31 2024 will be DOUBLED by a generous group of families in our community. Moreover donations may be eligible for the Colorado Childcare Tax Credit. Whether you are one of the 90 families who have joined HEA since May or weve had the honor of having your family be a part of our congregation for 90 years we hope youll participate in this important annual campaign. We are so thankful you have chosen to make HEA your home.

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

HEArtbeat - Igniting a Hanukkah Miracle

12/20/2024 01:13:56 PM

Dec20

Rabbi Sarah Shulman: Igniting a Hanukkah Miracle

“The miracle of the first day was expressed in the community’s willingness to light a small cruse of oil without reasonable assurance that their efforts would be sufficient to complete the rededication of the Temple.” – Rabbi David Hartman

On the surface, it feels like Hanukkah should be just a seven-day holiday.

Just imagine you are a Maccabee. After fighting the Syrian Greeks for months, you have finally recaptured the Temple in Jerusalem, and you yearn to reestablish the rituals of worship. In the chaos and mess left behind, you uncover only one cruse of pure oil to light the menorah. Should you use the defiled oil you have around in excess instead? Or should you stay true to the ancient laws and traditions for which you have been tirelessly fighting?

You have one day’s worth of oil to fuel the rededication of the Temple; that first day of light is a guarantee. Yet somehow, miraculously, this small amount of oil burns for an extra day, and then two and three more days… and ultimately a whopping seven days beyond what anyone would have expected. Each new day presents a miracle of unexpected possibility, where human agency meets spiritual connection.

To this day, we honor the ancient miracle of unexpected, sustained light by kindling the newest candle first with the shamash, or helper candle. In this way, we emphasize the miracle of each new night of Hanukkah by lighting the newest candle before the others. Practically speaking, we load our hanukkiah with candles from right to left, but we light them from left to right. Each night we honor the nisim, the miracles, of our ancestors through the way we light the candles, the words of the blessings we sing, the spinning of dreidels with nun that stands for nes, miracle, and through the way we approach the miracles in our own lives.

So, then, going back to my original question, why isn’t Hanukkah just seven nights? Wasn’t the first night of oil a given and the miracle only ensued on nights two through seven?

Perhaps, as Rabbi David Hartman emphasized in the quote above, the first night had its own miracle. And that was that a group of worn-down Jewish people decided that despite a low likelihood of success, they were still going to choose to ignite their traditions and sustain their community. On the first night of Hanukkah, we celebrate the audacity, the faith, and the resilience of our ancestors in their decision to go all in on the rededication of the Temple with only a small amount of fuel.

Yes, there is so much we don’t know about what tomorrow will bring. And as a result, it is easy to hold back in the boldness of our actions in the face of so many “what ifs.” What if this treatment doesn’t work? What if I fly to visit my loved one and it doesn’t help? What if the little I can give doesn’t have the impact I had hope for? One of the profound lessons of Hanukkah is that only action can spark a miracle and sustain a holy community.

As we approach the holiday of Hanukkah, may we light the first light with the courage of our ancestors. And with it, may we find ourselves on the path to healing, to holiness, and to illumination wherever our tomorrows may take us together.

Shabbat Shalom and Chag Urim Sameach – wishing you and your family a bright and joyful holiday!

Coming Up!

Singing + Sufganiyot Soirée
Thursday, Dec 26th 6:00p to 9:00p
Join the HEA Young Adult Crew, Moishe Pod City Park, base and Rahmana for a fun and spiritual Hanukkah celebration. This event is free!

Hanukkah Bash
Sunday, Dec 29th 5:00p to 6:30p
Join your HEA family for a creative latke experience where the latkes are unique, and the votes are cast by YOU. We will have crafts for the kids, a puppet show featuring Michael Wurzman at 5:30 p.m., candle lighting and songs, a sufganyot experiment, dreidels, blanket-making for a shelter, gelt, and much more! $10 per member family, $20 non-member family. Or, $5 per member individual; $10 per non-member individual.

Listening Tour
Tuesday, Jan 7th 7:00p to 8:30p
Small gatherings at the homes of members to get to know the HEA leadership, ask questions, and share your vision of HEA.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Jan 8th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

Movie Night: Seven Blessings
Thursday, Jan 9th 6:30p to 8:30p
Seven Blessings revolves around an eventful Jewish Moroccan family wedding and the traditional blessings that are pronounced during the ceremony, again at the reception, and then again for the next seven nights with loved ones hosting special dinners in the couple’s honor. Behind the facade of joie de vivre and togetherness, there are secrets, lies, and a painful old wound that forces them to confront the past, while wrecking the present, all entwined in this acclaimed story about fury, forgiveness, and food. NOTE: This is a screening of a film that is not yet released, therefore there is a charge for this film.

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Jan 11th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

Hochmat Nashim: Women’s Torah Study Group
Sunday, Jan 12th 6:30p to 8:00p
Join a vibrant group of Jewish women led by Rabbi Shulman and Gitit Kaufman for a meaningful evening of engagement with Torah and one another.

Life & Legacy Ed Series: Death & Dying
Wednesday, Jan 15th 12:00p to 1:30p
If you watched last year’s movie, Barbie, or even the trailer, the moment when Barbie asks her friends, “do you guys ever think about dying?”, is both hilarious and cringeworthy. It’s not every day we talk about or even think about death. And when we do, it’s rarely about our own mortality! This program is designed to help people be less afraid of death, sharing insights and approaches on how to have those difficult conversations. With guest speaker, Jamie Sarche. $10 for HEA Members, $15 for Non-Members.

An Evening of Paint Gem
Wednesday, Jan 15th 7:00p to 8:30p
Join the next ladies-out program, designed for ages 30-50, for an evening of relaxation as we paint with gems and schmooze. We will have several different designs to follow, with all the gems and applicators available that evening, along with wine and cheese of course. Cost is $10 member, $20 non-member.

Adult Beginning Hebrew Class
Sunday, Jan 26th 11:00a to 12:00p
This eight-week course is intended for the new or novice Hebrew student. The is no cost for this class for HEA members, but you must register below and pay a $15 book fee. $40 for non-members. The course is taught by Jessica Weber.

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

HEArtbeat - The Pathways Campaign (2 weeks left)

12/13/2024 03:15:25 PM

Dec13

Behind every program and service are the stories of love and relationship that make up our community. Take a moment to view a short video below to hear the HEA love story of Rabbi Sarah Shulman and her husband, Nate Bankirer. Whether you are one of the 90 families who have joined HEA since May, or we’ve had the honor of having your family be a part of our congregation for 90 years, we hope you’ll join Rabbi Sarah and Nate and participate in this important annual campaign. We are so thankful you have chosen to make HEA your home.

All donations received by December 31, 2024, will be DOUBLED by a generous group of families in our community. Moreover, donations may be eligible for the Colorado Childcare Tax Credit.

We ask you to invest in our vibrant congregation with a meaningful gift to the Pathways Campaign to support our staff, operating expenses, scholarships, and amazing programs.

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

Please CLICK to view the video.

Coming Up!

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Dec 14th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

Purim Shpiel Auditions
Sunday, Dec 15th 12:00p to 2:00p
Sing a song (we know your inner Swiftie needs to be heard!) dance a jig (or not), read aloud your favorite Taylor Swift lyrics, SHAKE IT OFF, or show up and tell us your name and age. Really you can audition with anything!

Hochmat Nashim: Women’s Torah Study Group
Sunday, Dec 15th 6:30p to 8:00p
Rabbi Shulman and Gitit Kaufman cordially invite you to join a vibrant group
of Jewish women for a meaningful evening of engagement with Torah and
one another.

Kavod on the Road
Tuesday, Dec 17th 1:00p to 2:30p
Monthly programs for adults hosted by Kavod On the Road at HEA.

Life & Legacy Ed Series: What Does It Mean to Have a Living Will
Thursday, Dec 19th 12:00p to 2:00p
This session will explore ethical will as an authentic Jewish practice that helps to articulate values, explore issues of legacy, and navigate liminal moments. With guest speaker, Nancy Sharp.

Movie Night: Here We Are
Thursday, Dec 19th 6:30p
This 2020 Israeli-Italian drama film, directed by Nir Bergman, explores the
relationship between a father and his autistic son.

Singing + Sufganiyot Soirée
Thursday, Dec 26th 6:00p to 9:00p
Join the HEA Young Adult Crew, Moishe Pod City Park, base and Rahmana for a fun and spiritual Hanukkah celebration. This event is free!

Hanukkah Bash
Sunday, Dec 29th 5:00p to 6:30p
Be a judge in our Sisterhood, HEAbros, Board latke contest! We will also have crafts for the kids, a puppet show featuring Michael Wurzman at 5:30 p.m., candle lighting and songs, a sufganyot experiment, dreidels, blanket-making for a shelter, gelt, and much more! $10 per member family, $20 non-member family. Or, $5 per member individual; $10 per non-member individual.

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

HEArtbeat: We Honor Stanley Kamlet

12/06/2024 12:15:37 PM

Dec6

We Honor Stanley Kamlet

Rabbi Yosei liked to say: Let your friend’s money be as dear to you as your own. Always prepare yourself to learn Torah, for it will not only come to you as an inheritance. And let all your actions be undertaken for the sake of Heaven.
-Pirkei Avot 2:17

The HEA community wishes a hearty mazal tov to a man of exemplary actions, philanthropy, and Jewish values, HEA member Stanley Kamlet, on receiving Jewish National Fund-USA’s Tree of Life award.

This prestigious award recognizes outstanding community involvement, professional leadership, dedication to the cause of American Israeli friendship, and devotion to peace and the security of human life. Stan has been a pillar in the Jewish community for decades through his service to JNF, Federation, and our own HEA community. Along with so many other HEA members and supporters, I had the privilege of attending last night’s JNF award ceremony in which we got to witness the love and adoration for Stan. It was incredibly touching to watch Stanley receive this award last night, surrounded by his family, including 15 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren!

Stanley prides himself in being the oldest person at HEA who had a bar mitzvah at the Alliance on the Westside. He has fond memories of reading his haftarah from parashat Shemot on that day 79 years ago, as well as on many occasions since. He proudly recalls playing Bialik in an HEA production and appreciates that his picture is still on the wall in the chapel at his beloved synagogue.

Stanley has worked for over fifty years as a Jewish professional, first for Federation (now JewishColorado) and then later for Jewish National Fund. He opened the Mountain States office of JNF, and he has come into the office every day since. He exemplifies to others how one can passionately live a life of mission, service, and love of Jewish community. At the award ceremony, one of his colleagues at JNF described Stan’s true calling as “a professional practitioner of Tikkun Olam.”

Stanley is known for his sincere interest in people and his sharp sense of humor. In a conversation last night, one associate described him to me as the kind of person who comes to your office “just to talk” and then, in the end, leaves with a huge check on account of being such a good person and caring so much about Israel and the Jewish people.

We are honored to celebrate Stanley, alongside his beloved wife Louan of 73 years, for their contributions to the Jewish community.

Mazal Tov and Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbi Sarah Shulman

Behind every program are a team of hardworking staff and security members, a building to operate, supplies and food to purchase, and numerous other expenses. This year, we invite you to actively engage in the meaningful programs at HEA to enrich your life. And we ask you to invest in our vibrant congregation with a meaningful gift to the Pathways Campaign to support our staff, operating expenses, scholarships, and amazing programs.

Your Donation and Its Tax Advantages
The Colorado Child Care Contribution Credit, commonly referred to as the 5C tax credit, was established to encourage greater private support of Colorado child care programs, like those provided by HEA. Since your monetary contribution to HEA qualifies for this tax credit, you can decrease the after-tax cost of your gifts by more than 50 percent. The effect of the credit is that half of your donation to HEA qualifies for the tax care credit – as long as it is designated to the Pathways Campaign - with the donor receiving 25% of the donation in the form of a Colorado tax Credit. You can still claim your full contribution as a charitable deduction on your Federal and State income tax returns if you itemize deductions. Please consult with your tax adviser to determine exactly how the credit will affect you.

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

Coming Up!

Torah for Today Class
Shabbat, Dec 7th 10:30a to 11:15a, Library
Rabbi Doug Weber will teach about Parashat Vayetze.

Magic Minyan
Shabbat, Dec 7th 11:00a to 12:00p
A "magical" Shabbat experience for kids and their adults!

Shabbat is AWESOME!
Shabbat, Dec 7th 1:00p to 6:00p
HEA celebrates Shabbat is AWESOME, our inaugural launch of a new program with our special guest, Michael Harlow! Join your HEA friends after kiddush lunch for a Shabbat afternoon designed with programs and activities for all ages and snacks galore. Stay for it all, or come for a bit.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Dec 11th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

Listening Tour
Thursday, Dec 12th 6:00p to 7:30p
Small gatherings at the homes of members to get to know the HEA leadership, ask questions, and share your vision of HEA.

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Dec 14th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

Hanukkah Bazaar
Sunday, Dec 15th 11:00a to 2:00p
Just in time for gifts for loved ones as we showcase different artisans from the local community!

Purim Shpiel Auditions
Sunday, Dec 15th 12:00p to 2:00p
1) Sing a song (we know your inner Swiftie needs to be heard!) or; 2) Dance a jig (or not), or; 3) Read aloud your favorite Taylor lyrics, or SHAKE IT OFF or 4) Show up and tell us your name and age. Really you can audition with anything!

Hochmat Nashim: Women’s Torah Study Group
Sunday, Dec 15th 6:30p to 8:00p
Rabbi Shulman and Gitit Kaufman cordially invite you to join a vibrant group of Jewish women for a meaningful evening of engagement with Torah and one another.

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

HEArtbeat / Pathways Campaign

11/29/2024 12:00:36 PM

Nov29

Because we have a thriving preschool at HEA, your contributions go further by qualifying for 5C tax status. The HEA Preschool's mission is to provide a nurturing and dynamic play-based environment where Jewish values and traditions are integrated into every aspect of early childhood education, fostering a love of learning, celebrating cultural heritage, and encouraging the growth of each child’s unique potential.

Rebekah Coelho and Igor Shumskiy, and their children, Ori and Noam are a HEA Preschool family. In this week's testimonial video, Rebekah and Igor tell us what they love about the Alliance.

Pathways Campaign Video Testimonial from theCoelho - Shumskiy family on what HEA means to them.

Click HERE to view the video

Did you know that membership dues only cover 70% of our operating expenses? The rest is based on your generosity to build a bright future at HEA together.

DON'T FORGET! ALL DONATIONS received by December 31, 2024, will be DOUBLED by a generous group of families in our community. Moreover, donations may be eligible for the Colorado Childcare Tax Credit.

Please join the Coelho-Shumskiy's in supporting your home at HEA, and donate TODAY!

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

Coming Up!

Kulanu: Synagogues in Action Against Antisemitism
Tuesday, Dec 3rd 5:00p to 7:00p
Join ADL and our partner organization, Project Shema, to learn about how your congregation can better understand and engage in challenging conversations around antisemitism and Israel in the current climate.

Listening Tour
Tuesday, Dec 3rd 7:00p to 8:30p
Small gatherings at the homes of members to get to know the HEA leadership, ask questions, and share your vision of HEA.

HEA Blood Drive
Wednesday, Dec 4th 2:00p to 5:30p
To schedule an appointment visit www.donors.vitalant.org & use drive code B108.

Mom's Night Out
Thursday, Dec 5th 7:00p to 9:00p
It's not easy to be a mom of young kids. It's time for something fun for yourself! Beading is the new craze, so join your friends at HEA to make bracelets of your choice, sip some wine, and relax.

Shabbat is AWESOME!
Shabbat, Dec 7th 1:00p to 6:00p
HEA celebrates Shabbat is AWESOME, our inaugural launch of a new program with our special guest, Michael Harlow! Join your HEA friends after kiddush lunch for a Shabbat afternoon designed with programs and activities for all ages and snacks galore. Stay for it all, or come for a bit.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Dec 11th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

Listening Tour
Thursday, Dec 12th 6:00p to 7:30p
Small gatherings at the homes of members to get to know the HEA leadership, ask questions, and share your vision of HEA.

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Dec 14th 10:45a to 12:00p
A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

Hanukkah Bazaar
Sunday, Dec 15th 11:00a to 2:00p
Just in time for gifts for loved ones as we showcase different artisans from the local community! If you are interested in being a vendor at our Hanukkah Bazaar, please complete and submit this form. Scroll past the form to see the list of vendors.

Purim Shpiel Auditions
Sunday, Dec 15th 12:00p to 2:00p
Be prepared to share your talents by one or more of these options: 1) Sing a song (we know your inner Swiftie needs to be heard!) or; 2) Dance a jig (or not), or; 3) Read aloud your favorite Taylor lyrics, or SHAKE IT OFF or 4) Show up and tell us your name and age. Really you can audition with anything!

Hochmat Nashim: Women’s Torah Study Group
Sunday, Dec 15th 6:30p to 8:00p
Rabbi Shulman and Gitit Kaufman cordially invite you to join a vibrant group of Jewish women for a meaningful evening of engagement with Torah and one another.

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

HEArtbeat / Pathways Campaign: Cuteness Overload

11/15/2024 12:01:32 PM

Nov15

Because we have a thriving preschool at HEA, your contributions go further by qualifying for 5C tax status. The HEA Preschool's mission is to provide a nurturing and dynamic play-based environment where Jewish values and traditions are integrated into every aspect of early childhood education, fostering a love of learning, celebrating cultural heritage, and encouraging the growth of each child’s unique potential.

Bradley and Carly Schlafer, and their children, Aiden, Hannah and Noah are a HEA Preschool family. Here's a video testimonial from Carly and the kids about what they love about the Alliance. WARNING: CUTENESS OVERLOAD.

Pathways Campaign Video Testimonial from the Schlafer family on what HEA means to them.

Please click HERE to view the video.

Did you know that membership dues only cover 70% of our operating expenses? The rest is based on your generosity to build a bright future at HEA together.

DON'T FORGET! ALL DONATIONS received by December 31, 2024, will be DOUBLED by a generous group of families in our community. Moreover, donations may be eligible for the Colorado Childcare Tax Credit.

Please join the Schlafers in supporting your home at HEA, and donate TODAY!

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

Coming Up!

Azamra
Friday, Nov 15th 5:30p to 8:30p

Our monthly Friday evening musical service led by Rabbi Shulman, Eitan Kantor, and musicians from the community.

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Nov 16th 10:45a to 12:00p

A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

Bubbe, Zayde & Me: Mispacha
Sunday, Nov 17th 3:30p to 5:00p

Join us as we make a special scrapbook using pictures and our creativity to design a stunning book to reflect memories with our grandkids.

Listening Tour
Sunday, Nov 17th 4:30p to 6:00p

Small gatherings at the homes of members to get to know the HEA leadership, ask questions, and share your vision of HEA.

The Four Major Religions
Monday, Nov 18th 6:30p to 8:00p

Monthly programs for adults hosted by Kavod On the Road at HEA.

Frontline Conversations: Resilience Amidst Tragedy
Tuesday, Nov 19th 7:00p to 9:00p

Join Americans for Ben-Gurion University’s (A4BGU) Denver Chapter for an unforgettable evening with Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Elbo Arama, PhD, who risked everything to save lives during the Hamas attacks at the Nova Music Festival on October 7th. Lt. Col. Elbo Arama will share his firsthand insight into the harrowing events of that dark day. His incredible story of courage and resilience in the face of unspeakable atrocities offers a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit.

Movie Night: The Women's Balcony
Thursday, Nov 21st 6:30p to 8:30p

When the women’s balcony in an Orthodox synagogue collapses, leaving the rabbi’s wife in a coma and the rabbi in shock, the congregation falls into crisis. Charismatic young Rabbi David appears to be a savior after the accident, but slowly starts pushing his fundamentalist ways and tries to take control. This tests the women’s friendships and creates an almost Lysistrata-type rift between the community’s women and men.

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

HEArtbeat - The Pathways Campaign Week 2

11/08/2024 12:10:43 PM

Nov8

Due to SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS in the Denver area, we encourage you to be safe. With that in mind, we expect fewer in-person worshipers tomorrow. So, WE WILL COMBINE SHIR HADASH WITH THE TRADITIONAL SERVICE AT 9:30 AM TOMORROW. The combined service will be livestreamed on the Sanctuary channel and Facebook.

The Pathways Campaign, Week 2

A big thank you to all for your generous donations to our year-end fundraising campaign, Pathways!

Did you know that membership dues only cover 70% of our operating expenses? The rest is based on your generosity to build a bright future at HEA together.

As we head into week 3, it's important to NOTE that ALL donations received by December 31, 2024, will be DOUBLED by a generous group of families in our community. Moreover, donations may be eligible for the Colorado Childcare Tax Credit.

Please join the Caryn Osterman and Mark Alpert in supporting your home at HEA, and donate TODAY!

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

Caryn Osterman and Mark Alpert for HEAPahways

Please click HERE to view the video.

Coming Up!

Book Review: Uncomfortable Conversations With A Jew
Sunday, Nov 10th 10:00a to 11:30a

Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew, by Noa Tishby & Emmanuel Acho. From two New York Times bestselling authors, a timely, disarmingly honest, and thought-provoking investigation into antisemitism that connects the dots between the tropes and hatred of the past to our current complicated moment.

Listening Tour
Sunday, Nov 10th 4:00p to 5:30p

Small gatherings at the homes of members to get to know the HEA leadership, ask questions, and share your vision of HEA.

The Four Major Religions
Monday, Nov 11, 18, 25, 6:30p to 8:00p

Tony Award Winning play, and now an HBO special, Just for Us, will be watched as a community, followed by a discussion with Sue Parker Gerson from the ADL. This comedy show is based on the actors real experience of joining a white nationalist meeting in Brooklyn. In partnership with ADL.

SLAK November Event
Thursday, Nov 14th 6:00p to 8:30p

Join your fellow SLAKers for an evening game night. Enjoy a selection of snacks and beverages while engaging in a variety of fun interactive technology games. It’s the perfect way to unwind and connect with your friends at SLAK. See you at the Stoney Brook clubhouse. Bring your favorite appetizer/snack to share.

Azamra
Friday, Nov 15th 5:30p to 8:30p

Our monthly Friday evening musical service led by Rabbi Shulman, Eitan Kantor, and musicians from the community.

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Nov 16th 10:45a to 12:00p

A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

Bubbe, Zayde & Me: Mispacha
Sunday, Nov 17th 3:30p to 5:00p

Join us as we make a special scrapbook using pictures and our creativity to design a stunning book to reflect memories with our grandkids.

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

HEArtbeat - The Pathways Campaign Has Launched

11/01/2024 12:01:19 PM

Nov1

The Pathways Campaign Has Launched

On Tuesday evening at 5:25 p.m., Amy Karp walked into my office. “I think I better close registration for tonight’s program with Shai Davidai,” she said. “We already have 531 people registered.”

“Wow, that’s tremendous,” I responded. “What a vibrant community!”

Tuesday night’s program at HEA was not only inspirational because of the poignant words of Professor Shai Davidai from Columbia, but also because it was a beautiful example of our community coming together yet again to learn, connect, and care. We want to thank Bill and Lynn Geller for making this program possible for our community in memory of Gerry and Ly Japha. This is yet another example of the generosity of our members who energize HEA going forward.

After watching their video, it is evident that Evan and Ellen Kline are spot on about the Alliance hopping these days with invigorating programs, welcoming people, and a zest for life. This is our home, and it’s the home of the next generation. My kids love coming to shul just like the multi-generational Kline family and so many in our community – for the joy, the friends, the warmth, the inspiration, and the spiritual music.

Of course, as you know, it takes a lot of effort, resources and help to make these programs come to life. Behind every program from Shai Davidai to High Holidays services to Tot Shabbat are a team of hardworking staff and security members, a building to operate, supplies and food to purchase, and numerous other expenses. This year, we invite you to actively engage in the meaningful programs at HEA to enrich your life. And we ask you to invest in our vibrant congregation with a meaningful gift to the Pathways Campaign to support our staff, operating expenses, scholarships, and amazing programs.

What you may not know is that membership dues only cover 70% of our operating expenses. The rest is based on your generosity to build a bright future at HEA together.

We are excited to announce that the 2024 Pathways Campaign has launched. All donations received by December 31, 2024, will be DOUBLED by a generous group of families in our community. Moreover, donations may be eligible for the Colorado Childcare Tax Credit.

Whether you are one of the 90 families who have joined HEA since May, or we’ve had the honor of having your family be a part of our congregation for 90 years, we hope you’ll participate in this important annual campaign. We are so thankful you have chosen to make HEA your home.

Please join the Kline family as well as my family in donating TODAY to support your home at HEA. I look forward to a bright year of connecting deeply and building community together.

Todah Rabbah,
Rabbi Shulman

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

Please click HERE to view the video.

Coming Up!

Shabbat-Along
Friday, Nov 1st 4:30p to 7:00p

Come join Rabbi Shulman, Eitan Kantor, and other HEA Families for an uplifting, kid-focused, and family-friendly Shabbat evening.

Traditional Friday Evening Services & Dinner
Friday, Nov 1st 6:00p to 9:00p

Join us for traditional Friday Evening services, followed by a delicious chicken dinner catered by Cohen's Cuisine.

Zoo Scavenger Hunt (Ages 6-12)
Sunday, Nov 3rd 2:30p to 4:00p

Free days at the zoo-tickets released on October 23, so please get your own tickets online! We will meet at a designated spot to begin our hunt for all the various animals on Noah’s ark!

Young Adults: Couples & Conversations
Sunday, Nov 3rd 7:00p to 8:30p
Couples & Conversation™ is a four-week workshop for couples who are building a life together as an interfaith (intercultural, dual-faith, mixed heritage, Jew-ish) couple. This four-week workshop is facilitated by Rabbi Shulman and offers a safe environment for couples to work on creating religious/cultural lives together. Couples are invited to participate if they are seriously dating, engaged, or newly married, exploring the issue of religion/culture in their relationship. Sponsored by 18 doors.

The Four Major Religions
Monday, Nov 4th 6:30p to 8:00p

Become acquainted with the basic concepts of these four major world religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity and Islam. Added attention to where they are similar, and where they differ, from Judaism. This course is taught by Rabbi Mordecai Magencey, PhD.

Monthly Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Shulman
Wednesday, Nov 6th 12:00p to 1:00p
A curriculum on Judaism and Jewish identity based on traditional sources and the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Topics include Identity, Prayer, Study, Mitzvot, Tzedakah, Chesed, Faith, Israel, Kiddush Hashem, and the Jewish future.

Listening Tour
Thursday, Nov 7th 7:00p to 8:30p

Meet and Greets with the leadership team at the homes of congregants to connect, discuss, and share your perspective, hopes and dreams for the future of HEA.

Mom's Night Out
Thursday, Nov 7th 7:00p to 9:00p
It's not easy to be a mom of young kids. It's time for something fun for yourself! Beading is the new craze, so join your friends at HEA to make bracelets of your choice, sip some wine, and relax.

The Boomers: 60+ Gameshow Battle Room
Saturday, Nov 9th 7:00p to 9:00p
Get ready for a fun and unforgettable event as we face off with our friends facilitated by a game show host in a custom arena.

Book Review: Uncomfortable Conversations With A Jew
Sunday, Nov 10th 10:00a to 12:00p
Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew, by Noa Tishby & Emmanuel Acho. From two New York Times bestselling authors, a timely, disarmingly honest, and thought-provoking investigation into antisemitism that connects the dots between the tropes and hatred of the past to our current complicated moment.

DONATE TO THE PATHWAYS CAMPAIGN!

HEArtbeat - Yom Kippur Message from our Clergy

10/11/2024 01:06:40 PM

Oct11

Yom Kippur Message from our Clergy

Wishing your family Shabbat Shalom, G’mar Chatima Tova, and a meaningful Yom Kippur.

Rabbi Sarah Shulman | Eitan Kantor, Musical Director

Please click HERE to view the video.

COLLECTING JFS FOOD & HYGIENE BAGS BEFORE KOL NIDRE SERVICES TONIGHT
As inspired by the words of the prophet Isaiah in tomorrow’s Haftarah, “This is the fast I desire…to share your bread with the hungry,” we invite you to return bags tonight with non-perishable food items for JFS.

Coming Up!

Friday, October 11 - Erev Yom Kippur / Kol Nidre
4:30 p.m. Family Kol Nidre Service, Terrace & Main Sanctuary
6:15 p.m., Kol Nidre Services, Main Sanctuary

Saturday, October 12 - Yom Kippur (Yizkor)
9:00 a.m., Traditional Yom Kippur Services, Main Sanctuary
9:30 a.m., Shir Hadash Yom Kippur Services, Bethany
10:00 a.m., Youth & Family Programs, Bethany
Babysitting Available at Bethany Lutheran Church from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m., Teen Hangout, GYC
4:00 p.m., Healing Service, Sukkah Pad
5:00 p.m., Mincha Service, Main Sanctuary
6:00 p.m., Neilah Service, Main Sanctuary
6:45 p.m. Family Song Session Under the Stars
7:10 p.m., Havdallah & Shofar, Main Sanctuary

Family Sukkah Program
Sunday, Oct 13, 10:00 a.m.

Join HEA Staff and our USY Teens to decorate the sukkah for Sukkot!

Azamra & Soup in the Sukkah
Friday, Oct 18, 5:30 p.m.
Rabbi Sarah, Eitan and his merry band are joined by the Sisterhood and their delicious fall season soups.

Tot Shabbat
Shabbat, Oct 19, 10:45 a.m.

A fun and spirited playtime and Tot Shabbat service.

New Member Event - A Happy Hour
Shabbat, Oct 19, 4:00 p.m.

A casual get-together for new HEA members of all ages.

Disability Justice Sukkot Celebration
Sunday, Oct 20, 3:00 p.m.

Join HEA, JFS Jewish Disabilities Advocates, in partnership with Repair the World and Ohr HaOlam for a celebration in our beautiful and accessible sukkah.

Sukkah Hop
Monday, Oct 21, 6:00 p.m.

An adult's only sukkah hop through the neighborhood!

Sheerah Beerah BaSukkah - Colorado Hebrew Chorale Sing-a-Long
Monday, Oct 21, 7:30 p.m.

Colorado Hebrew Chorale's annual evening of singing in the sukkah.

HEArtbeat - All Hands on Deck

09/27/2024 12:01:16 PM

Sep27

All Hands On Deck

Steve Levine, CEO 

As I near completion of week two at HEA, the only appropriate phrase to describe the HEA team is the often-used idiom, ‘All hands on deck.’ The staff has been going over preparations diligently and the team is highly motivated, exhilarated, and completely engaged in creating a meaningful holiday experience for all our members.

A key element of our preparation is based on security measures to ensure your safety while you can focus on your spiritual well-being during this time. In response to several inquiries from our members, I want to take a moment to provide assurance with the actions undertaken thus far:

We ask that you bring your tickets with you to display at the registration tables at both HEA and Bethany Church. We will have volunteers and staff checking membership guest lists at each table in case you forget to bring your ticket.
We are also asking, for security reasons, that you enter through the lower parking lot entrance at the HEA building and the Hampden entrance at Bethany Church. Staff will be stationed to assist and direct you as needed.
HEA has retained off-duty officers from Denver, Arapahoe County, and Cherry Hills Village police forces to work with contracted security officers and the HEA Greeter team to oversee the main access areas at both HEA and Bethany Church.
Officer Sheldon Doell, who many of you have gotten to know during weekly Shabbat services, will be stationed at the HEA building along with two other armed off duty officers.
Both High Holiday facilities are equipped with readily accessible defibrillator equipment, first responder medical bags and first aid kits and we are in the process of having medical professional available on-site during Yom Kippur day and Nei’lah services.

Amir Kaufman, head of the HEA Greeter team and Yuri Tavbin, Director of Operations, have been in constant communication with the police departments, contracted security teams, and our staff and volunteers through trainings and walk-throughs. Our lay volunteer Greeter team is so instrumental in ensuring a welcoming, yet vigilant environment, and we thank our volunteers for their efforts toward creating a safe experience for all of us. Further, through the generosity of Jewish Colorado, HEA has partnered with SCN (Security Communication Network of Colorado), and many members of the Greeter team have recently attended SCN High Holiday training in collaboration and solidarity with other synagogue representatives throughout the region.

Please reach out to the HEA office (303-758-9400) with any questions about security or high holiday logistics. Most importantly, under the premise of ‘see something, say something,’ if you see anything that may present a safety concern, please report it to one of the staff or security officers on site. Your safety is of utmost importance to all of us.

During a recent Torah study discussion, our group discussed the perception of the holidays as a period of judgment, commonly interpreted as a negative connotation. Instead, as I learned through further clarification, the judgment could also be meant as a chance to re-evaluate our past with a prism toward the open possibilities available to all of us in the coming year. With that, we are so elated that you have chosen to be part of the HEA family, and we are excited about the possibilities presented in 5785. May this be a year of peace for Israel and for us all.

Shana Tova,
Steve Levine

Coming Up!

Selichot & Study Under the Stars
Motzei Shabbat, Sep 28, 8:15 p.m.
Join Rabbi Shulman, Eitan Kantor, Rabbi Rachel Kobrin and members of Rodef Shalom for Havdallah and songs on the HEA sukkah pad!

Tashlich
Sunday, Oct 6, 11:00 a.m.

A short Tashlich service led by Rabbi Shulman and Eitan Kantor at nearby George Wallace Park.

October 7th Commemoration: From Darkness to Light - MeChoshech L'Or
Monday, Oct 7, 7:00 p.m. at Temple Emanuel

Family Sukkah Program
Sunday, Oct 13, 10:00 a.m.

Join HEA Staff and our USY Teens to decorate the sukkah for Sukkot!

Azamra & Soup in the Sukkah
Friday, Oct 18, 5:30 p.m.

Rabbi Sarah, Eitan and his merry band are joined by the Sisterhood and their delicious fall season soups.

Shabbat Schedule for September 28

Selichot - 1st Saturday
Nitzavim-Vayeilech
9:30 a.m., Traditional Shabbat Services

11:00 a.m., Magic Minyan: a Junior Congregation Experience
6:15 p.m., Mincha/Maariv services

Meals and Assistance for the Schuett Family
Please signup to help the Schuett family with meals and car rides via CareCalendar. CareCalendar Access Information: Calendar ID: 315869; Security Code: 3524

Click HERE to view our full list of upcoming programs.

HEArtbeat - A Spiritual Roadmap for High Holidays

09/20/2024 12:01:01 PM

Sep20

A Spiritual Roadmap for High Holidays

Rabbi Sarah Shulman

Witnessing nearly 100 seniors and a dozen teen helpers come together last Friday night for an inspiring Silver Shabbat reminded me just how miraculous it is when we can gather across generations to sing, share, and celebrate.

I am looking forward to gathering for the High Holidays this year to connect to one another, to a deeper sense of ourselves, and to God. For one of the core spiritual values that guides both our congregation and our tradition is kehillah, community. The sage Hillel stated: “Do not separate yourself from the community” (Pirkei Avot 2:14). Community means that we show up for one another; that we value the contributions, ideas, and questions of all members; that we form something more sacred and enduring together than apart. I invite you to let community be an animating force for your High Holiday experience and for your life in the year 5785.

I am grateful to be a part of such an inspiring community and team this High Holidays with Eitan Kantor, Rabbi Bruce Dollin, Rabbi Dave Yedid, Michael Harlow, our choirs and davening team, our dedicated staff, and robust security team. With so many players involved, you might be wondering, who is going to sermonize in each service? Or how are things going to work this year?

To help you prepare for the Holidays, I wanted to share a road map of how the High Holidays will flow at HEA this year:

SERMONS & CLERGY PRESENCE

Unlike in past years when we have had just one rabbi in each service for the entirety of the service, this year we will benefit from many clergy in our services and from hearing unique sermons on each day of the holiday. Eitan and I will be moving from service to service on several days of the holiday to support and connect with the full community.

Rosh Hashanah Day 1:

Rabbi Shulman will speak in both Traditional and Shir Hadash services
Rabbi Dollin will lead the Torah service and give several kavanot (spiritual intentions) in Shir Hadash
Rabbi Dave Yedid, a local Conservative Rabbi who leads the thriving young adult Base community, will share kavanot in Shir Hadash
Eitan Kantor will begin in Shir Hadash and finish the day by leading Musaf in the Traditional service

Rosh Hashanah Day 2:

Rabbi Dollin will speak in the Traditional service and teach a class in Shir Hadash during Musaf
Rabbi Dave Yedid will speak in conversation with Rabbi Shulman during Shir Hadash
Eitan Kantor will speak before the Torah service in Shir Hadash about musical leadership in addition to his prayer leadership in all services

Kol Nidre:

Rabbi Shulman will share a vision for the future of HEA and set a tone for our Yom Kippur prayers

Yom Kippur:

Rabbi Shulman will speak in both Traditional and Shir Hadash services before Yizkor
Rabbi Dollin will lead the Torah service and give kavanot in Shir Hadash
Shlicha Nelly Ben Tal, our Israeli Emissary will participate in both Yizkor services

Throughout the holidays we will also have the opportunity to hear short reflections from several congregants on their recent powerful experiences in Israel and personal reflections for 5785.

FAMILY & YOUTH PROGRAMS

We are thrilled to offer a robust slate of family and youth programs and even babysitting this year. Your kiddos are always welcome in our main services. In addition, we offer the following specific youth and family experiences (note some are family experiences and some are drop off, as specified below):

Erev Rosh Hashanah:

4:30 p.m., Apples and Honey Service led by Rabbi Shulman, Michael Harlow, and Eitan Kantor for Families with kids 0-10 years old at HEA

Rosh Hashanah Day 1:

For Preschool aged kids: 10:00 a.m., Early Childhood Family Service (bring an adult); followed by drop off babysitting 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., (pre-registration required)
For Kids Grades K-8: 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., drop off youth programs and service with Michael Harlow and HEA staff at Bethany Church
For Teens: Sign up to be a madrich (counselor) for our youth programs at Bethany Church

Rosh Hashanah Day 2:

10:00 a.m., Family Service (bring an adult) at the GYC

Kol Nidre:

4:30 p.m., Kol Nidre Family Service led by Rabbi Shulman, Michael Harlow, and Eitan Kantor for Families with kids 0-10 years old at HEA

Yom Kippur:

For Preschool aged kids: 10:00 a.m., Early Childhood Family Service (bring an adult); followed by drop off babysitting 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. (pre-registration required)
For Kids Grades K-8: 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., drop off youth programs and service with Michael Harlow and HEA staff at Bethany Church
For Teens: Sign up to be a madrich (counselor) for our youth programs at Bethany Church and join our Teen Hang at 3:00 p.m., at the GYC
6:45 p.m., Neilah Song Session under the stars, followed by Havdallah & Final Tekiah (BYOShofar)

> Register for Family & Youth Programs

As you can see, it’s going to be a full and joyful High Holidays! As the moon wanes, we approach a season of renewal and reconnection. I encourage you to join us this weekend for Azamra, Saturday services, and an uplifting concert with Rabbi Josh Warshawsky on Saturday night as we reactivate that sense of spiritual community in our lives for the journey of teshuvah, of return. I want to thank you for being an important part of our Hebrew Educational Alliance family for 5785. If you have any remaining questions about High Holidays this year, or need tickets, please reach out to our office. We’re here to help and to hold you; that’s what community does!

Wishing you and your family a Shana Tova – may it be a healthy, sweet, and community-filled New Year,

Shabbat Shalom!

> Go to High Holiday Main Page to See Service Times and to Register for Family Programs

Coming Up This Weekend!

Rabbi Josh Warshawsky in Concert Featuring violinistvocalist Coleen Dieker Door Open at 730 p.m. Concert at 800 p.m.

Rabbi Josh Warshawsky is a nationally touring Jewish musician, songleader, composer, and educator, who has shared his original melodies and teachings with Jewish communities worldwide.

Josh seeks to build intentional praying communities, and composes melodies to open up new possibilities for understanding the deep meaning of the words of our tradition. Check some of his songs! Va'ani Ashir Uzekha, Yedid Nefesh, Yomam Valailah.

Get Tickets!

Holiday Crafts with Sisterhood Sunday September 22 2024 19 Elul 5784 1000 AM - 1200 PM Kitchen

Mother Daughter Yoga for the Season Sunday September 22 2024 19 Elul 5784 1230 PM - 130 PM

Shabbat Schedule for September 21

Ki Tavo
9:30 AM, Traditional Shabbat Services
9:30 AM, Shir Shacharit
10:45 AM, Tot Shabbat
6:30 PM, Mincha/Maariv services
8:00 PM, Rabbi Josh Warshawsky in Concert

Click HERE to view our full list of upcoming programs.

Sisterhood HEArtbeat - Sweet as Honey

09/13/2024 12:01:10 PM

Sep13

Sweet as Honey

We mourn the passing this week of our dear friend, Honey Wedgle-Gesundheit. When she walked into the room, her infectious personality and easy laugh filled the room with a warmth that could only come from her heart. If she didn’t know you, she would come over, and before you knew it, you were friends. And then she would quiz you. If your family ever had any connection to Denver, she could tell you who you were related to in our tight Denver community. Her grandparents were founding members of the HEA, and she and her family remained tightly connected as it moved from the Westside. But she never left the Westside completely, as she was part of various groups helping to keep that history alive. She was a women of valor and always involved in some committee or another. Honey worked tirelessly on various inclusion and disability committees, making sure everyone had a voice and a place in the Jewish community. She was also the face of Sisterhood – greeting you at every event, serving as president and most recently treasurer, following in the footsteps of her mother, Grace Wedgle z”l. She was the essence of l’dor v’dor, sharing the love of making a kosher Jewish home to many women, and ensuring that those traditions and values were passed on to our youth by enabling them to participate in USY, IST, Jewish day camps and more. Above it all, her biggest love was her family – her sister Yetta, her brother Norman z”l, her husband David, her sons, Marcus and Isaac and her many cousins, nieces and nephews.

You will be greatly missed.

Upcoming Sisterhood Events

Get ready for the Holidays with us, and let's bake some apple cake, then create beautiful table decorations! RSVO by Sept. 17. $25 per-person. Register HERE.

Save the Date

Friday, October 18: Sisterhood’s Annual Soup in the Sukkah – Bring your family and join us for this wonderful annual tradition. Sign-up information will be available in the next couple of weeks.

Sunday, October 27: Calling all crafters! Do you knit, crochet or want to learn how? Join us for Crafty Mavens wine and cheese kick-off at 4:30 p.m., followed by the monthly womens Hochmat Nashim group at 6:00 p.m. led by Rabbi Shulman and Gitit Kaufman.

If you want to join the Sisterhood, please contact Marla Cohen at Sisterhood@HEAdenver.org.

Shabbat Shalom!

Shabbat Schedule for September 14
(Celebrating Silver Shabbat)
9:30 AM, Traditional Shabbat Services, Sanctuary
9:30 AM, Shir Hadash, GYC
6:45 PM, Mincha/Maariv services

HEArtbeat - Welcoming the High Holidays Video Message

09/06/2024 12:01:02 PM

Sep6

Welcoming the High Holidays Video Message

A High Holiday video message from Rabbi Sarah Shulman and Eitan Kantor of HEA lyrics and melody by Rabbi Micah Shapiro adapted from a verse from Lamentations 521 Turns us back O Adonai to You and we will return renew our days as of old.

Click HERE to view video.

Lyrics and melody by Rabbi Micah Shapiro, adapted from a verse from Lamentations 5:21:

הֲשִׁיבֵ֨נוּ ה׳ אֵלֶ֙יךָ֙ וְֽנָשׁ֔וּבָה חַדֵּ֥שׁ יָמֵ֖ינוּ כְּקֶֽדֶם׃

Turns us back, O Adonai, to You and we will return; renew our days as of old.

Coming Up!

Rabbi Josh Warshawsky is a nationally touring Jewish musician, songleader, composer, and educator, who has shared his original melodies and teachings with Jewish communities worldwide.

Get Tickets!

Shabbat Schedule for September 7

9:30 a.m., Traditional Shabbat Services, Sanctuary
10:30 a.m., Torah for Today with Rabbi Doug Weber
6:45 p.m., Mincha/Maariv services

Click HERE to view our full list of upcoming programs.

HEArtbeat - Yizkor: The Art of Remembering

08/30/2024 12:01:10 PM

Aug30

Yizkor: The Art of Remembering

Amy Karp Engagement Director at Hebrew Educational Alliance

Amy Karp, Engagement Director amy@HEAdenver.org

The essence of Yizkor is to remember. Some memories overpower us, some drift gradually into our hearts.

Welcome to the Yizkor book online form. Please fill out your information and your Yizkor book names. Click HERE to view Last Years Yizkor Book.

In this prayer, we ask God to remember the souls of our loved ones. Yizkor is the one moment in the Jewish liturgical calendar when what matters is not communal but individual memory, each of us standing personally consumed by singular memories of relatives and friends who have died. Unlike a funeral or shiva, where individual memories are shared publicly to fashion a collective mosaic of the person being remembered, Yizkor provides a communal space for inward memorializing.

Jewish tradition teaches that there is a window, not a wall between the living and the dead. After death, there is a link between us and our loved ones who died. Rituals such as Shiva, Kaddish, Yahrzeit, and Yizkor open the window to loved ones who are no longer with us. It is a sacred time and space wherein we open our hearts to the possibility of interconnection with those who have left the world of the living.

For those of us who need to recite Yizkor prayers, let our senses and imagination be the conduit of interconnection. Remember their smiles, their faces, the sound of their voices. Hear their words as you stand in prayer. Feel their presence. Communicate in your mind and your heart, and allow a conversation to begin.

At HEA, we publish a Book of Remembrance to recognize those we have lost in our families. Each name represents a life. Each name was a person – a loved one of someone who is part of our congregational family. If you wish to honor your loved one, please do so through our beautiful Yizkor book.

It is a pledge to keep the memory of our loved ones alive, and to keep Judaism alive, to keep the Jewish community alive. And to keep this congregation strong.

Shabbat Shalom!

Click HERE for the Yizkor Book Online Form

Shabbat Schedule for August 30-31

Today
6:00 p.m., Friday Evening Minyan
Saturday
9:30 a.m., Traditional Shabbat Services, Sanctuary
10:45 a.m., Tot Shabbat
7:00 p.m., Mincha/Maariv services

Click HERE to view our full list of upcoming programs.

HEArtbeat - Introducing HEA's Youth Program Coordinator

08/23/2024 12:48:29 PM

Aug23

Introducing HEA's Youth Program Coordinator, Chaviva Sands!

Chaviva Sands New Youth Director at Hebrew Educational Alliance

Chaviva Sands, chaviva@HEAdenver.org

I'm excited to join the team at HEA as the new Youth Program Coordinator! I’m eager to start implementing programs that inspire, engage, and empower our youth as they navigate and develop their Jewish identities.

In today’s world, it’s easy for our connection to Judaism to take a backseat, even when it’s important to us. With sports, school, and other activities competing for our attention, we might find ourselves prioritizing everything but our spiritual practices. This week’s parsha, Eikev, reminds us of the significance of even the smallest mitzvot. When Moses instructs the Israelites on observing the commandments, Rashi interprets the word *eikev* to mean "on the heels of," suggesting that even the seemingly minor commandments hold great value in our connection with God.

This is a powerful reminder that small acts of observance, such as lighting Shabbat candles or attending a Shabbat dinner, can still create meaningful connections to our faith. As I embark on this new journey, I’m excited to explore how we can integrate these practices into the lives of our youth, helping them find deeper connections to their Jewish identities, one step at a time. I look forward to meeting everyone over the next few months!

Shabbat Shalom!

Shabbat Schedule for August 23-24

Today
5:30 p.m., Azamra & Potluck Dinner (offsite)
6:00 p.m., Friday Evening Minyan
Saturday
9:30 a.m., Traditional Shabbat Services, Sanctuary
10:00 a.m., Shir Hadash, Social Hall
10:30 a.m., Torah for Today with Rabbi Mordecai Magencey
7:15 p.m., Mincha/Maariv services

Click HERE to view our full list of upcoming programs.

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