So, What’s New? | Community

Summer Lay Led Shabbat Services

In June, some 18 members attended our first lay led Shabbat services, hosted by Esta Goldstein. Our lay leaders were Herb and Sue Cohn. The service they provided was thoughtful, caring and traditional. Everyone participated in an atmosphere that was relaxed and peaceful. The Oneg was a time to socialize and catch up with each other. Many thanks to Esta who had a variety of cakes, fruits and cool beverages for us to enjoy. Our last lay led Shabbat service was held on Friday, July 18. In the future, we hope that some of you will volunteer to lead an upcoming service. Your skills and knowledge will be very welcome. If you wish to lead or attend a service, email Herb at [email protected]. Oneg sponsors are encouraged. Seating is limited to 25 people at each service.

Speaking of Onegs, if you wish to commemorate or recognize a special occasion, memory or honor, email Judi Friedman at [email protected] to arrange the sponsoring of an Oneg. And, speaking of volunteers, we hope that some of you will help us with the Onegs in the months to come. All you have to do is contact Judi.

Dates to RememberSummer Shabbat Services (at 7 p.m.)

• Friday, August 15* , Lay Led Shabbat Services, a leader is requested

*We hope that if you are interested in leading a Lay Leader Shabbat services, you will email Herb Cohn at [email protected].

Shabbat Services (at 7 p.m.)

• Friday, October 17
• Friday, November 21
• Friday, December 19

High Holy Days

• Monday, September 22 to Tuesday, September 23 — Rosh Hashanah
• Wednesday, October 1 to Thursday, October 2 — Yom Kippur

Celebratory Events

• Wednesday, July 9 — Dolly Steamboat cruise and lunch at Tortilla Flats
• Fridy, July 11 — Herb Weiss, ‘One Man’s Story’ — speaks about his recent travel to Israel
• Sunday, August 31 — Pre-High Holy Day Meet and Greet
• Saturday, September 13 — Havdalah and Selichot service (marks the end of Shabbat and the beginning of the new week).
• Monday, October 6 to Tuesday, October 7 — Sukkot
• Saturday, November 15 — Celebrating B’nai Midbar’s 25th Year Anniversary
• Friday, December 12 — Annual Meeting
• Sunday, December 21 — Chanukah Party

The 2026 calendar is full of services and events, too. But we will leave that for another time.

To be ‘in the know’ keep up to date with our ‘Jewish Links’ and our website “bnaimidbar.org.’ Many thanks to Bonnie Lasky ([email protected]) and all of our volunteers!

Always exploring as we set off for the Dolly Steamboat Cruise. This article is written before the fact. But, together we are off on an adventure; and that’s is what counts! Also, knowing that the boat’s cabins are climate controlled is a plus. We will sightsee on this six-mile Canyon Lake cruise, as we look for desert bighorn sheep, bald eagles and a host of other animals to be viewed from the decks of the Dolly! And then, there is lunch at Tortilla Flats!

Recently, turbulent times have found some of our congregants, friends and family in Israel. We are happy that they have made their way home and are safely. Herb Weiss spoke on Friday, July 11 about his experiences in Israel and his travels home. May peace come to Israel and the world; and be sustained.

Remembering loved ones during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is a custom that many of us hold dear. Our thanks to Bonnie Lasky and Sue Spaniol in preparing the Book of Remembrance. They will reach out to members as they confirm and/or add your loved one’s names.

We Have a New AddressWe have a permanent address where we can mail correspondence, membership renewals, donations, special events, Book of Remembrance entries among other items to:

Congregation B’nai Midgard

PO Box 9223

Tucson, AZ 85738

Congregation B’nai Midbar is celebrating 25 years since our founding. Our history can be seen on our website at bnaimidbar.org/history. Explore our website, learn about us and what is happening! We are a 501© (3) tax exempt congregation. Contributions are welcome.

Congregation B’nai Midbar is a congregation that provides individuals of all backgrounds the opportunity to celebrate, practice and learn from Jewish culture and religion in a welcoming and socially fulfilling environment. For information, email Joy Erickson at [email protected].

As we prepare for a time of reflection, may all be well with you and yours.