Lunch!  Learn!  Loop! 
Can we say it any better?

If you work in the Loop and want to study with Rabbi Michael Zedek, bring your lunch and learn with friends! A lively discussion always ensues! These sessions will be held at the laws offices of Ira Bodenstein:

Shaw Gussis Fishman Glantz Wolfson & Towbin, LLC
321 North Clark Street, Suite 800

Security Alert!  Yes, this is a big building in the Loop, which means heightened security. To participate in the lunch study session, you must:
1.  Reserve at least a day in advance (reservations@emanuelcong.org)
2.  Bring a photo ID to present at the entry desk.

Introduction to Judaism
February 21, 2012 - June 12, 2012
with Rabbi Michael Zedek and Cantor Michelle Friedman

Introduction to Judaism is a 17-week overview of Judaism, providing a more extensive opportunity to learn about Jewish history, traditions, holidays and life cycle ceremonies. Participants will gain comfort and familiarity with the symbols, liturgy, music, traditions and Hebrew blessings that accompany Jewish celebrations in the home and synagogue. The classes cover a wide range of topics including Practice and Observance ; Beliefs; Creating a Jewish Home; Life Cycle Observances; Synagogue and Prayer; History; Shabbat; Basic Hebrew; Holidays and Festivals;  Choosing Judaism.

Reform rabbis and cantors teach this in-depth course. Introduction to Judaism is designed for individuals and couples wishing to explore Judaism, as well as for those considering becoming Jewish. Partners in interfaith relationships are encouraged to enroll together. Introduction to Judaism is cosponsored by the Union for Reform Judaism and the Chicago Associate of Reform Rabbis. Cost: Fees: $310 per individual or couple. (Includes textbooks, materials and 17 weeks of instruction). Other locations and registration.   

 Synagogue Director Sara Beth Salzman will be present at Emanuel on the following Sundays during Religious School. If you would like to meet with her, please email her to set up a time.

February 5, 2012 ~ March 4, 2012 Purim Carnival  ~  April 15, 2012
May 6, 2012  ~  May 20th, 2012

Monthly on Mondays
On Winter Break in December and January
Coffee 7:30 pm/Discussion 8:00 pm  
 
Be informed!  Come to the discussion and you will gain greater understanding of current world events.  Generally meets the third Monday of every month. 

Yes! You need a form!
Would you like to schedule a committee meeting at Emanuel or use one of our many rooms for a celebration? While we recognize the synagogue is often the most convenient location for holding meetings, it is not regularly open in the evenings and space is often limited on Sunday mornings. The staff coordinates all requests at its weekly meeting on Tuesday mornings; we recommend allowing at least two weeks notice to ensure maintenance staff support and room set-up. To place it on the Emanuel calendar and avoid conflicts with other events, please fill out the Calendar Request.  You will to send in the  Room Set-Up Sheet  two weeks (but the earlier the better!) before the event to the office at info@emanuelcong.org. 

And if you need labels, copies, etc. for your committee, please submit the Request for Office Services.

Sundays, 10:00--11:30 am
March 25, 2012
Got little ones? Join us for the Emanuel playgroup,a once-a-month social gathering for families and their children, infant through kindergarten. An opportunity to let your children play while you connect with other parents, old friends and new! We hope to see you there! For more information, contact Emily Miller.

Emanuel Just for Fun
Poker Tournament

Saturday, February 11 at 7:00 pm

Yes, we're doing something just for fun!  Demonstrate your poker face among friends! Cost: $25.00 for chips and $5.00 refreshments. Please rsvp to reservations@emanuelcong.org. if you would to help volunteer, please email the temple office at info@emanuelcong.org.

Sunday, February 5

Join us as the 6th Grade leads an observance of the New Year for Trees. Volunteers are needed--please contact Alison Lewin, Director of the Religious School, by email or at 773/561-5173. 

Beginning Talmud
with Rabbi Michael Zedek
Sundays at 10:00 am
Next Classes:  February 5, 2012 
Join us as we encounter the greatest text of our people--rabbinical thought throughout our history. You need only a willingness to learn and to share insights from your own life experience in connection with the text. No Hebrew required! For additional information, please contact Rabbi Zedek at 773/561-5173.

Emanuel Congregation
Heartland Blood Drive
Sunday, February 19 
9:00 am--1:00 pm
Mobile Blood Unit

Why? Because one donation saves three lives!
Come to the Michigan Room to register. The whole process takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.Walk -ins are welcome, but we encourage you to make an appointment to minimize your wait time. Sign up here for your appointment, sign up at www.heartlandbc.org or with Judy Glaser. A photo ID will be asked of you.

Share-Shabbat Family Service and Dinner
Family Service and Share-Shabbat Dinner:
Friday, February 10, 2012.  6:30 pm Service and 7:15 pm Dinner.

Don’t miss the swinging sounds of Emanuel’s own Ham-it-Up Band. The cost is $7 per person if you bring a dish, $10 per person without a dish to share. Kids under age four are always free!  To reserve your place, call the Emanuel office at (773) 561-5173 or send an email to reservations@emanuelcong.org.

Next Share-Shabbat:  March 9 (2nd and 3rd Grades participate in services)

Saturdays
9:30 am 
February 4 ~ March 31 ~ April 28
Designed for families with infants, toddlers and pre-school age children to delight in the joy of Shabbat. Cantor Shelly Friedman brings a unique, creative, music-filled mini-service and Judaic art project to our families with young children. As always, our programs are open to the community.