MESSAGE FROM THE RABBI

This week’s Torah portion, the last in the book of Genesis, describes Jacob’s last will and testament to his sons, and his eventual passing and burial. He requested that his children not bury him in Egypt, but immediately transport his body to the Holy Land for burial near his parents and grandparents in the Cave of Machpelah. At the end of the portion we read about Joseph’s passing. He made a similar request of his family, but with one difference: While he also requested that his remains be buried in the Holy Land, he did not request that it be done immediately. In fact, he clearly says that he should be kept in Egypt until the entire Jewish nation leaves, many years later. And the final words of the portion indeed state that Joseph’s casket was interred in Egypt. Both Jacob and Joseph knew that the Jewish nation was about to endure a centuries-long enslavement in Egypt. By having Jacob buried in Israel, the Jews would have an anchor in their homeland drawing them back there eventually; but they also needed a guiding light while still in Egypt. To that end, Jacob’s burial in Israel needed to occur immediately, while Joseph’s did not happen until after the Exodus. This served as an inspiration and motivation for the Jews throughout their years of slavery, knowing that one day G-d would hear their cries and return them to the Promised Land. May it happen very soon for us too! Shabbat shalom

Rabbi Yeruchem Eifort

END OF YEAR APPEAL

Dear Friends,

We assure you that this will be our last appeal of this (secular) year. ;)

2020, which is considered great for vision, has been severely lacking as far as this year has gone. It is finally at an end. We have taken a dramatic hit this year and are financially hurting. Many people have lost their jobs and many people have reached out to us for help. Thanks to you, our friends, we have been able to respond.

We have distributed more financial aid grants this year than all of our previous years, COMBINED. These grants have been used to keep people fed and under a roof.

On top of that we have touched more lives through our virtual classes, Holiday-in-a-Box gift box experiences, and other direct programming than all previous years, COMBINED. We have done all of the above on less income than we have had in a decade.

Our plan is to INCREASE what we do for the community. Why? Because more help is needed!

I am asking, from the bottom of my heart, for you to please join with us, as together we strive to bring more goodness and kindness into the world. Together, anything/everything is possible.

If you haven’t already made an end-of-year donation NOW is the time. Please follow this secure link to make a different today. www.ChabadatLaCosta.com/donate. If you have already done so please accept our most sincere gratitude and thanks.

Thank you and G-d bless!

Rabbi Eilfort

Living with the Times

By: Rabbi Yeruchem Eilfort

Parshat Va’Yechi – And He Lived

To Life!

This week’s portion is titled “Va’Yechi,” which means And He Lived. The portion begins by discussing the final 17 years of the life of Jacob, third, and in many ways greatest, of the Patriarchs. It is ironic that the portion that talks about Jacob’s death is called, “And He Lived.”

By considering this irony we can deduce the Torah’s definition of life.

Jacob had endured a life full of hardships, often at the hands of those who should have been sources of love and comfort. His evil twin Esav was overcome with a homicidal rage directed against him. His uncle Lavan found thousands of ways to swindle him. His daughter was raped and he faced annihilation by hostile neighbors. His son Judah left the family in shame and two of his grandsons died tragically. His beloved son Joseph disappeared without a trace. His son Shimon was taken as a prisoner and his youngest son Benjamin was likewise taken away.

All’s well that ends well.

In the end, however, things seem to turn out well for Jacob and his family. While Jacob was on his death bed his children affirmed their belief, in Almighty G-d. In His infinite kindness G-d had previously appeared to Jacob assuring him that even the impending exile and oppression that would befall his family in Egypt would end on a happy note and indeed was for a positive purpose. Somehow suffering is more tolerable when one knows that a huge benefit will be derived therefrom.

How is it possible to define the final years of Jacob’s life, years spent in Egyptian exile, as the best years?

The answer is that when one has a moral code and the life goals of Jacob, it is entirely possible. Before bringing the family down to Egypt, Jacob had sent Judah ahead to prepare the Land of Goshen, which is where the Israelites would live. How did Judah prepare Goshen? The Talmud explains that he established a Yeshiva, an academy where Torah would be learned by the Children of Israel. Interestingly, the Talmud states that the Divine Presence, known as the Shechinah in Hebrew, accompanies us into exile. And while in exile the place where the Shechinah can be most readily experienced is in the environs of the Torah and its commandments. When we study Halacha, Jewish Law, we immerse ourselves in G-dliness and are actually enveloped by the Divine Presence!

Jacob understood that although he would be leaving his ancestral home he would nonetheless remain close to G-d. When this spiritually-conducive atmosphere is added to the fact that he now would have his entire family around him, and that they all had wisely and righteously chosen to follow his path in the service of G-d, Jacob was able to experience profound contentment. He then knew that his life had been a success, despite (or perhaps because of) all of the difficulties.

This lesson is critical for every one of us. We are in the midst of an unprecedented pandemic, which has wreaked havoc on the patterns of life to which we had become accustomed. Nevertheless if we can find the self-discipline to remain focused on the purpose of our lives, we will still achieve a true life, as defined by Torah. We will live life filled with meaning and joy! We will therefore be in a joyous state of mind and then be able to successfully transform the darkness of the world into light. And that mission will be fully accomplished with the speedy arrival of our righteous Moshiach!

Wishing everyone a happy and HEALTHY Shabbos!

Haftarah Parshat Va’Yechi

I Kings 2:1-12.

In this week's haftorah, King David delivers his deathbed message to his son and successor, Solomon, echoing this week's Torah reading that discusses at length Jacob's parting words and instructions to his sons.

King David encourages Solomon to be strong and to remain steadfast in his belief in G‑d. This will ensure his success in all his endeavors as well as the continuation of the Davidic Dynasty. David then goes on to give his son some tactical instructions pertaining to various people who deserved punishment or reward for their actions during his reign.

The haftorah concludes with David's death and his burial in the City of David. King Solomon takes his father's place and his sovereignty is firmly established.

 

Weekly Sermon Thursdays @ 6pm on Facebook Live - Not this week

Join Rabbi Eilfort tonight at 6pm on Facebook Live for his Weekly Sermon. If you have not already done so, please send Rabbi Eilfort (Yeruchem Eilfort) a Friend Request on Facebook!

Outdoor Shabbat Services

Due to the updated Covid-19 status of San Diego we will be holding services in our breezeway for the time being – but we ARE having services. We have placed space heaters strategically around the breezeway for your comfort, however please dress warmly.

Masks are mandatory while here as is frequent hand sanitizing/washing. Social distancing is observed.

Remember, if you do not feel well or you have been in contact with someone who has or was exposed to Covid or whose doctor recommends that you not come, please pray at home.  

If you are planning on come please let us know.

Chicken Soup and Challah THIS Week

Those who live near Chabad at La Costa are welcome to let us know if you want some delicious Challah and/or Chicken Soup delivered to you on Friday to help you celebrate Shabbat in the most delicious way possible. If you can help with deliveries, reach out to Kayla or Nechama.

Please note that all food is prepared and delivered using recommended safeguards.

Sponsors Appreciated (And Needed)

These are extraordinary times. Many people are reaching out for help and, Baruch Hashem / thank G-d, we are HERE to help! ‘We’ means YOU and US, TOGETHER. It is an amazing partnership that we have!

We are extremely grateful to those who have reached out to help fund us, enabling us to serve others. Thank you volunteer drivers Angela, Araceli and Carrie.

We are seeking additional sponsors for the following dedications:

• Next week’s Loaves of Love.
• Next week’s Chicken soup.
• Next week’s Torah classes.

Note About Sponsorships

You may have noticed that we seek multiple sponsors for the Challah, Soup, and Torah classes. We do this because we need to find ways to cover our budgetary shortfall that has been caused by the coronavirus. The donations coming to the shul have been dramatically reduced. We greatly appreciate those of you who are still supporting us! G-d bless you! We greatly appreciate your understanding as we seek ways of propping up the income necessary to keep things afloat. Your ideas about additional income streams are likewise greatly appreciated!

Daily & Weekly Classes

Join us, at no cost, on Facebook Live (must friend request Yeruchem Eilfort if you are not already my friend) and be a member of the Chabad at La Costa Facebook page for ongoing classes in Chasidic Philosophy, Caffeine for the Soul, Torah Portion of the Week, Positivity Bias, Holiday Overviews, and much more. Torah study is THE way to keep the soul charged! 

Ways to Give

We would be nowhere without the generous support of our community. Please know that your support is profoundly appreciated!

There are many ways to donate besides for checks and cash. Following please find a list of the various other ‘platforms’ that are available for secure donations that go directly and entirely into the synagogue account.

1. PayPal   [email protected]  or PayPal.me/Neilfort

2. Venmo @Nechama-Eilfort

3. Cashapp $nechamae

4. Zelle (Bank of America)  [email protected]

5. Personal credit card   chabadatlacosta.com/donate

6. Join our Legacy Circle - see below

Easy Fundraising Opportunity 

First, let us take this opportunity to thank all of those who have had  Facebook Birthday Fundraisers for Chabad at La Costa! I cannot tell you how much Nechama & I appreciate it! The money we have received through these fundraisers has helped our shul continue with programming, delivering soup and challah as well as other activities. 

Do you have a birthday coming up? We would be honored if you would consider making our shul the recipient of your birthday fundraiser.  Wouldn’t it be wonderful to celebrate your birthday and do a wonderful Mitzvah at the same time? Thank you for your consideration and Happy Birthday!  

Working Car (still) Needed

We are currently seeking a car in good mechanical condition. If you, or someone you know, has a car that you can donate please respond to this message. This request is time sensitive. Thank you in advance! .

OUR HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES are extended to the families of the victims of the coronavirus! We pray for the day when the Almighty will remove death and suffering from humanity. May it come speedily in our day!

SPEEDY RECOVERY wishes are extended to all of those who are suffering from the coronavirus. May you be granted a complete and speedy recovery! 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY wishes go out to Beverly Galperin, Reizi Rodal, Chana Levy, Elia Eilfort,  Jonathan Rozansky, and all of those celebrating their birthdays this week!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY wishes go out to all of those celebrating their anniversaries this week!

WE REMEMBER Harry Zone, Cantor Elijah Olkenitzky, Earl Lebovitz, Michael Goldstein, Esther Cohen, Joel Kupchin, Dr. Joel Glovsky, Mel Bridge, Isadore Stern, and all of those whose Yarzeit is observed this week.

May Channah Hale, Sheila Lebovitz, Camille Stern, Adam Lemberger, Sandy Radom, Roz Mintz be blessed with a speedy and complete recovery!

We have an ever-expanding menu of online learning opportunities for everyone. Below please find an overview of our current classes and a schedule of when you can join in on Facebook Live. If you miss the live class you can watch the recorded version, either on Facebook or on YouTube (our channel is called the Chabad Virtual Academy).

If you cannot get the classes online please email us at  [email protected] and we will work out a different arrangement.

Journey of the Soul

Winter Course

Sign up for a thought-provoking experience, sure to deepen your understanding of Judaism and enrich your life! www.myjli.com
 

Rabbi Eilfort Published Weekly by the San Diego Jewish World

Our own Rabbi Eilfort is submitting weekly columns on the Torah Portion of the Week and other subjects, which are published by the San Diego Jewish World ( www.SDJewishWorld.com).

Rabbi Eilfort always enjoy hearing feedback about his articles, so please don’t be shy!

Please Like the shul’s Facebook Page  https://www.facebook.com/ChabadatLaCosta

For up to date pictures and announcements follow our Facebook Page and join our community Group. 

Belonging to a Jewish Community is not only gratifying and fulfilling it is also extremely important, for within the community one finds a place to connect with G-d and one’s soul, a place of learning and spiritual enrichment, a great source of friends, a place to bestow one’s Jewish legacy upon his or her child/ren, and so much more. Check out   www.ChabadatLaCosta.com to learn more. 

The beauty of OUR Jewish Community is that we offer so many different options that everyone is sure to find something enriching and meaningful. Below please find a partial list of some of our current offerings. If you have never come by before pick an item or two and try it out. If you have already tried an item or two find another one that sounds interesting and give it a whirl. “Connection” – that is the name of the game and that is precisely what you will find here! 

*Daily Minyan   *Shabbat Services   *Weekly Kiddush Luncheon   *Mysticism Classes   *Torah Portion Class   *Hebrew School   *Bar/Bat Mitzvah Training   *Mommy and Me   *Family Friday Night Services and Dinner   *Women’s Group   *Youth Activities   *Pastoral Counseling   *Holiday Programming   *Community Meals   *Hospital Visitation   *Weekly Email Updates   *Hospital Visitation   *Mezuzah Campaign   *Jewish Heritage Workshops   *Jewish Learning Institute Affiliate *www.JewishEncinitas.com *Chabad of Carlsbad N

 

Need a Minyan?

If you need a Minyan to say Kaddish please give the office at least a few days’ notice. We are happy to provide this important service, but it takes time to arrange enough participants to assure the quorum is present. Please email  [email protected] your request.

Shabbat Services with Meaning & Joy

Every Saturday we get together to celebrate the holy Shabbat in song and prayer. Our services are both traditional and user-friendly, as we fully recognize that not everyone has experience ‘Davening’ (praying) in a traditional setting. What those who have joined have found is that the atmosphere in our synagogue is conducive to meaningful meditation. A knowledge of Hebrew is not necessary to participate. In fact, the only thing that is needed is the desire to learn and to connect to the Almighty. It is an enriching experience not to be missed! Shabbat services begin at 10am and conclude at approximately 12:30pm and are followed by a wonderful community lunch. There is no cost to attend and reservations are not needed.

Pay-What-You-Can-Membership

We want the membership experience to be positive. We want you to feel GOOD about giving. Yes, we have suggested donations, but you should give what you feel you can afford. If you cannot comfortably give the suggested amount THAT IS OK. If you can give more than the suggested amount, THANK YOU, IT IS APPRECIATED! We  love and appreciate your participation, and that is that. Please fill out our Membership form online by logging onto: www.ChabadatLaCosta.com/Membership. 

Create Your Jewish Legacy Plan for the Future - NOW

We have been blessed with life! Yet, we know that no one lives forever. This begs the question, “What will  your legacy be?” Most of us have children, and they certainly should figure prominently into our plans. But our children are only a part of what we leave behind. Just as we endeavor to give Tzedakah generously, so as to selflessly make the world a better place while we are alive, so too we need to make sure that we leave a percentage of our estates for the benefit of others. Judaism tells us that it is incumbent upon us to leave the world better than when we found it. We do this by giving Tzedakah.

We can help.

Chabad has partnered with the Jewish Community Foundation in the creation of our Legacy Circle "Generation to Generation - Ensuring a Jewish Tomorrow, Today".  Many people do not prepare appropriately for the inevitable. They do not leave a will, or even if they do it is not consistent with Jewish Law. If one wants his body to be handled with the respect and care mandated by Jewish Law or if one wants the funeral service conducted according to Jewish Law, it must be arranged in advance. Don’t leave these critical details to luck!

Contact Rabbi Eilfort for a private appointment so these important matters can be handled how you want.

Send a personal email to  [email protected] to schedule an appointment today. 

 

We honor our Legacy Circle Members*:

Anonymous

Channah Hale

Len Hyman

Sheila Lebovitz

Ilyse Loven

David Markoff
Anonymous

Sharon Silverstein

 

*Has provided Chabad with a Declaration of Intent. Click here for a Declaration of Intent and more information.

 

Memorial Plaques & Tree of Life Plaques Available

Our beautiful Memorial Boards have been installed. We specifically designed our custom-built bookcases to ‘frame’ each of the boards. The first Memorial Board was dedicated by the Brunelle Family, the second Board was dedicated by the Alter Family, and the new Board has been dedicated by Miriam Reisman in memory of her husband, Harold.

We are currently offering Memorial Plaques to those who wish to perpetually honor the memory of a loved one in a most dignified and permanent manner. Those who dedicate Memorial Plaques will also receive yearly reminders of the Yarzeit and the light on the Board will be illuminated each year on the Yarzeit.

We also have a gorgeous Tree of Life dedicated by the Lieberman Family that has been ‘growing’. The purpose of the plaques on the Tree of Life is to commemorate joyous occasions (like Bar/Bat Mitzvah, anniversaries, special birthdays, weddings etc.). And our NEW Legacy Circle Section coming soon...

The donation is only $500 per plaque for the Memorial Board or $180 for the Tree of Life. Those who wish to participate should send an email to   [email protected], or call Rabbi Eilfort at 760-943-8891.

Hebrew School & C-Kids

Hebrew School Theme this Week: Food

FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER - Tuition Free Hebrew School

Due to the economic hardships created by the pandemic we will be offering Tuition Free Hebrew School this year. Families are struggling to make ends meet, but we cannot allow the children to suffer. We are offering two options – In-person learning (outdoor and indoor classes, socially distant, masks on), and virtual learning. Please respond to this message for further information. We are the only synagogue in the county making such an offer! Morah Chaya has worked diligently to create an amazing curriculum that will educate and inspire our students. Our teachers will always offer lots of positive reinforcement to the students so that they will not only learn, but they will ENJOY the EXPERIENCE! Please get back to us and let your friends know.

Give your children the Jewish education that they deserve! Our Sunday Hebrew School offers lots of hands-on activities and positive reinforcement. Students learn Hebrew language skills, Jewish living and observance, Jewish history, and so much more! We include arts & crafts, field trips, and holiday programming to make their experience even more enjoyable. Your child will have fun as he or she gains an appreciation for the ‘why’s and ‘how’s of Judaism. Currently Distance Learning with Zoom! Our students want to be here!

Please contact our Hebrew School Director, Morah Chaya Eilfort for info at   [email protected].

Shul Etiquette

Those who join us regularly for Shabbat services will agree that we have something very special going. The family-friendly atmosphere is unique and most inviting. We welcome everyone as though he/she is a long time member of the family.

At the same time it is important to remember that we are a synagogue. Our sanctuary is meant to be a place where it is conducive to finding inner peace and tranquility. That is why the Rabbis have many laws concerning the decorum of a shul.

It is appropriate to dress modestly and to dress somewhat formally in shul. Men should wear button down shirts, slacks (no jeans or shorts), with jackets and even ties when possible. Of course the head is to be kept covered at all times. Women should wear skirts that go past the knees and blouses with high neck lines and sleeves that cover the elbows. Married women should wear hats and the like.

Children must be supervised at all times by the parents except during Junior Congregation (11:30am). While we want the children to have a great time together it is also important that they do not become so wild and/or boisterous that they disturb those of us who are participating in the services.

We must remember that we should walk to shul and never park in the parking lot if there already eight cars parked. Finally, and we fully realize this goes against Jewish DNA, it is appropriate to come to shul ON TIME. While we know everyone is vying to be counted as the 10th, we are equally sure Hashem will give extra credit to those who come ON TIME at 10am (not to be confused with 11:30). We look forward to seeing you here!

Cell Phones & Chatting During Services

Needless to say the sanctuary on Shabbat or holidays is a place that must be conducive to reflective prayers and serenity. To help keep it this way, please refrain from engaging in any conversations during services and please do not bring in your cell phone. Thank you for your cooperation.

Critical Maintenance Issue – Your Cooperation Needed

PLEASE NOTE: The ONLY thing that may be flushed is toilet paper – NO EXCEPTIONS. This means tissue, baby wipes, paper towels, or any other product may NEVER be flushed, but instead must be disposed of in the provided trash receptacles.

THANK YOU for your cooperation!

Omni La Costa Resort Welcomes Chabad at La Costa Guests

We are pleased that our world-famous neighbor, the Omni La Costa Resort, has extended a special program offering all sorts of perks to those who book using the ‘Chabad’ code when booking. The special terms include the lowest room rate available, a reduced resort fee of $15.00 (normally $28.00) and complimentary self-parking (savings of $18.00 per car per day).  The resort’s deposit requirement is waived for Chabad guests as well as the three-day cancellation policy.  Chadad guests may cancel until 6pm on the day of arrival to avoid a charge of one night’s room and tax.

To book your room at the special Chabad rate, call toll-free 800-854-5000 or book online at   http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/san-diego-la-costa/meetings/chabad.  Or you can find more information or book through our website:   www.ChabadatLaCosta.com. Follow the link for Visitor Information.

More than 500 people use the Chabad code each year ! Many people have expressed gratitude at having such world-class facilities in such close and convenient proximity to our Shul, and the joy at being to stay at the Omni and walk to Chabad for Shabbat services.

Tzedakah news – Planning for your 2020 taxes

Individuals may deduct 100 percent of qualified CASH contributions of up to 100 percent of their adjusted gross income. A corporation may deduct qualified contributions of up to 25 percent of its taxable income. Contributions that exceed that amount can carry over to the next tax year.

Rina Coleman is an Enrolled Agent with more than 20 years experience preparing taxes for all walks of life. Please contact her at affordable.tax.prep4u@gmail.com for a free 15 minute consultation.

Marc Nimetz Farmers Insurance

It's almost all the same, until you have a claim!

Marc Nimetz
Farmers Insurance                                                
15644 Pomerado Road, Suite 104                                  
Poway, CA 92064
License #0H35885
858-866-8147 (Office)
858-603-4961 (Cell)
858-815-6930 (Fax)

Your Chabad Real Estate Agent & Mortgage Broker

Jonathan Rozansky is a licensed realtor and mortgage professional.

Whether you are Selling, Buying or Refinancing your home, do not proceed without calling Jonathan Rozansky first.  Jonathan will look out for your best interest and can answer all your real estate and financing questions.   Call for a free market analysis report today.

Jonathan Rozansky
Direct   (619) 392-1234
[email protected]
www.rozanskyteam.com

DRE. # 01754457
NMLS ID : 315987

Center for Hormonal Health and Well-Being

Center for Hormonal Health and Well-Being ">is a personalized, proactive, patient-centered medical practice with a unique focus on Integrative Endocrinology. Dr. Danielle Weiss takes a holistic approach to the patient and their health condition. She harnesses the physical, social, and spiritual aspects of healing. Dr. Weiss prides herself on spending time truly listening to your concerns and needs. She uses a team approach to develop a plan to address these issues together.     http://www.centerforhormonalhealth.com/

Ron Lewis Insurance Services

www.MedigapExpress.com
[email protected]
760-525-5769 - Cell
866-718-1600 - Toll-free

Specializing in Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Insurance! 

• As an independent agent, I work with ALL the major insurance carriers.

• Let me do the shopping for you!

• I will save you money on your insurance premiums.

• Call me for a free, no-obligation quote.

• References available upon request.

Neal Sperling Business Development

Highly talented, highly experienced business development/marketing consultant to wide range of businesses and non-profits can help you to find innovative new ways to raise money, launch, brand, market, sell, merchandise, and promote your products, services, and organization. Has written and improved wide variety of business plans, marketing plans, obtained major grants/new funding for a wide variety of ventures. Has unique ability to study most any business, quickly and creatively identify new sources of potential revenue, reduce costs, increase efficiencies, and drive more sales in the quickest time frames. Recognized expert on how to drive new sales via the internet. Acclaimed speaker to Southern California business groups, and particularly known for being a great “connector” with ability to introduce you to a wide variety of hard-to-reach decision-makers in various fields. Strong background in consumer products, medical products, high tech, "clean tech," "green" products, non-profits, much more. Call for details: cell: 818-219-9585.

Dream Home Cinema

*Family Room Surround
*Wholesale House Audio
*Home Automation

Joseph Markowitz: 760-415-8742  [email protected]

Pammy's Pony Parties and Petting Zoos

I am a small Jewish farmer running my business in La Costa  called Pammy's Pony Parties and Petting Zoo. I arrive with my animals at little children's birthday parties, senior homes,  graduation parties, and resorts in the area, to share my love of animals. I also do animal therapy with children and adults. Fantastic!! Call me to make an appointment or set up a birthday party.

Pam Glickman 760-535-5293

Cost Effective Advertising Available HERE

Hundreds of people see Chabad at La Costa's Weekly Email Update. Those who are looking to effectively promote their business and at the same time support this important community resource are invited to become sponsors for only $50 per month (that's per MONTH, not per week). Call Rabbi Eilfort at 760-943-8891 to get your message out there.