In recent weeks, I’ve been paying visits to someone in a skilled nursing facility who has a copy of this very Rosie the Riveter “We Can Do It!” poster propped up in the room. I think it’s an excellent reminder that even when life’s challenges might seem insurmountable (and even when simple physical tasks might feel insurmountable), we can persevere… especially if we focus on what we can do, instead of what we can’t.
https://cbiberkshires.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Rosie.jpg473345Rachel Barenblathttps://cbiberkshires.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/CBI-Logo-70h-2.pngRachel Barenblat2025-07-09 12:00:002025-07-09 12:39:41From the Rabbi – July 2025
Here we are-happy summer! I write to you for the first time in my new role as CBI co-President with Natalie Matus who has served our community so beautifully for 5 years. I have witnessed firsthand her dedication, commitment, hard work, and passionate support for our community and we are beyond blessed that she found us! I am honored to work alongside her, and our wonderful board members this year, at a time when the need for community, and in particular Jewish community, is so evident.
Summer is a quiet time on the Jewish calendar. Now that Shavuot is behind us, the next big thing on the horizon is Tisha b’Av in late August, followed by the seven-week runway to the Days of Awe.
https://cbiberkshires.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CBI-Labyrinth-2025.jpg600800Rachel Barenblathttps://cbiberkshires.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/CBI-Logo-70h-2.pngRachel Barenblat2025-06-03 12:00:002025-06-03 13:27:18From the Rabbi – June 2025
I am delighted to welcome Wendy Penner as co-president of CBI for the coming year! Wendy has been a true partner over the past year, taking on numerous responsibilities and acting as a valued thought partner. I am so pleased that she has decided to take on the official role of co-president. Together, we look forward to serving the CBI community in the year to come.
Roger and I had the wonderful opportunity a week ago to attend a reception at the Yiddish Book Center for the installation of the 25 foot long House of Israel mural at the main entrance to the Center. This mural is deeply connected with CBI’s history – it was painted by artist Noah Levin above the ark at our predecessor synagogue on Francis Street in North Adams.
From the Rabbi – July 2025
From The Rabbi, Newsletter, ShabbatIn recent weeks, I’ve been paying visits to someone in a skilled nursing facility who has a copy of this very Rosie the Riveter “We Can Do It!” poster propped up in the room. I think it’s an excellent reminder that even when life’s challenges might seem insurmountable (and even when simple physical tasks might feel insurmountable), we can persevere… especially if we focus on what we can do, instead of what we can’t.
July 2025 | Tammuz 5785
Annual Meeting, Events, From The President, NewsletterHere we are-happy summer! I write to you for the first time in my new role as CBI co-President with Natalie Matus who has served our community so beautifully for 5 years. I have witnessed firsthand her dedication, commitment, hard work, and passionate support for our community and we are beyond blessed that she found us! I am honored to work alongside her, and our wonderful board members this year, at a time when the need for community, and in particular Jewish community, is so evident.
From the Rabbi – June 2025
From The Rabbi, Newsletter, ShabbatSummer is a quiet time on the Jewish calendar. Now that Shavuot is behind us, the next big thing on the horizon is Tisha b’Av in late August, followed by the seven-week runway to the Days of Awe.
June 2025 | Sivan 5785
Annual Meeting, Events, From The President, NewsletterI am delighted to welcome Wendy Penner as co-president of CBI for the coming year! Wendy has been a true partner over the past year, taking on numerous responsibilities and acting as a valued thought partner. I am so pleased that she has decided to take on the official role of co-president. Together, we look forward to serving the CBI community in the year to come.
May 2025 | Iyar 5785
From The President, NewsletterRoger and I had the wonderful opportunity a week ago to attend a reception at the Yiddish Book Center for the installation of the 25 foot long House of Israel mural at the main entrance to the Center. This mural is deeply connected with CBI’s history – it was painted by artist Noah Levin above the ark at our predecessor synagogue on Francis Street in North Adams.