The first Northern Hills Synagogue HaZak program of the New Year 5780 was held October 16, 2019, at noon beginning with a luncheon and followed by the program: "An Engaging Future at Northern Hills." Rabbi Samantha Schapera, our new Program Director, spoke about upcoming events and introduced us to some other new staff members.
Unfortunately, Sam Schauvaney, Rabbinic Intern, and Daniel Hotary, Jewish Foundation Rabbinic Fellow, were not able to attend, but we did get to meet our new intern Noah Smilg, who will be helping with office work.
Rabbi Schapera spoke about the three-part goals of the new engagement plan, funded by the Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati, which is directed at building and maintaining relationships across the congregation, in the Jewish community, and throughout the Mason/Deerfield area.
"We have so many great programs coming up for people of all ages," said Rabbi Schapera. "We have Katan Families for kids 0-5 and their adults; we're rebuilding our youth group; and our unique holiday celebrations are for the entire congregation as well as for guests in the community."
HaZak, which stands for Hokma (wisdom), Zikna (maturity), and Kadima (forward) provides monthly programs for people 55+ at Northern Hills Synagogue, 5714 Fields Ertel Road (between I-71 and Snider Road) beginning at noon with a luncheon followed by the program. "We do not charge for programs – they are free and open to the public, but donations insure the continuation of the program." said Sonia Milrod, HaZak co-chair. "Also, reservations are required so that enough food can be prepared."
Noah Smilg and Rabbi Samantha Schapera. |
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Rabbi Schapera recited the HaMotzi blessing over bread. |
HaMotzi. |
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The lunch buffet. |
Sarah Barnard led Birkat HaMazon, grace after a meal. |
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Bobbi Handwerger introduced Rabbi Schapera. |
Bobbi Handwerger, Hazak chair. |
Rabbi Schapera and Noah Smilg. |
Rabbi Schapera talked about a wide range of new programs at NHS. |
