RABBI STEPHEN EPSTEIN
רבי שמואל בן-יהושע
A MODERN CONSERVATIVE RABBI
Rabbi at Temple Sholom of Ontario
Serving San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, CA and all of Southern California
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Services (24)
- Hebrew School 2
We will learn prayers, sing accompanied by musical instruments Talk about holidays and festivals throughout the Jewish year Life Cycle events Other timely topics https://us04web.zoom.us/j/73337554944?pwd=aS81dEJyb3Y4KzhYNThzUUlGT2xXdz09
- Yom Kippur 5781 יום כפור
The day we afflict ourselves and consider our weaknesses so we can do better next year. Ma'ariv Tuesday 6:30 pm Kol Nidre Shachrit Wednesday 9:30 pm Mincha-Ma'ariv Wednesday 4:30 pm Break-the-fast Wednesday 7:15 pm
- Miller Course - Introduction to Judaism
If you're thinking of converting to Judaism: Completion of the Intro Program fulfills the learning requirements for conversion of the Rabbinical Assembly of America. Once you finish the course requirements and secure a sponsoring rabbi, you are eligible to become officially part of the Jewish People. If you're already Jewish: Whether you were born Jewish but never quite learned what it’s all about, you’re back after a long hiatus, or you’re just looking for a deeper understanding of your heritage, most of us could use a bit of a refresher. Jews from all walks of life enroll in the program: from people who had a Jewish day school education to those whose strongest connection was the annual box of matza on the kitchen counter. More details to follow. Please let us know if you're interested. Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/98601669614?pwd=ajU1YldEOFVKOGRDL0RQaVNId2QrQT09 Meeting ID: 986 0166 9614 Passcode: 278508 One tap mobile +16699006833,,98601669614# US (San Jose) +12532158782,,98601669614# US (Tacoma) Dial by your location +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC) Meeting ID: 986 0166 9614 Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/aBrvMx0uI
Events (1039)
- November 14, 2024 | 3:30 AM
- November 16, 2024 | 3:30 AM963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA
- November 16, 2024 | 5:30 PM963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA
Blog Posts (819)
- D'var Torah for Parashat Vayera 5785 / פָּרָשַׁת וַיֵּרָא November 16, 2024 / 15 Cheshvan 5785
Parashat Vayera 5785 / פָּרָשַׁת וַיֵּרָא 16 November 2024 / 15 Cheshvan 5785 10-Minute Torah on YouTube Parashat Vayera is the 4th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Genesis 18:1-22:24 Vayera (“He Appeared”) opens as guests inform Abraham that Sarah will give birth. Despite Abraham’s attempts to convince God otherwise, God destroys the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Sarah gives birth to Isaac, and Abraham sends away Hagar and Ishmael. At God’s command, Abraham prepares to sacrifice Isaac, but an angel of God tells Abraham to offer a ram instead. [1] Triennial year 3 1: 21:1-4 · 4 p’sukim 2: 21:5-13 · 9 p’sukim 3: 21:14-21 · 8 p’sukim 4: 21:22-34 · 13 p’sukim 5: 22:1-8 · 8 p’sukim 6: 22:9-19 · 11 p’sukim 7: 22:20-24 · 5 p’sukim maf: 22:20-24 · 5 p’sukim Haftarah for Ashkenazim: II Kings 4:1-37 · 37 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria OU Torah Jewish Theological Seminary American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 71 – 76 Triennial Year 3 (Full Kriyah pp. 63 – 76) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 94 – 105 Triennial Year 3 (Full Kriyah pp. 78 – 105) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. 112 – 122 Triennial Year 3 (Full Kriyah pp. 99 – 122) There are a lot of important events in this portion that set the stage for what we now call Judaism. Abraham demonstrates his humanity by pleading for Sodom and Gomorrah; Isaac is born, circumcised and weaned; and Abraham binds his son, Isaac, to prepare for his offering, that, of course doesn’t happen. We have discussed these events many times in the past. In fact, as you may remember, our triennial portion are the same readings as for the two days of Rosh Hashanah. In between these events, we read about Abraham making an agreement with Abimelech and Phicol, the king and general of the Philistines. There workers were disputing usage and ownership of wells, for drinking and irrigating crops. While these other events are epochal, isn’t everything in the Torah, and why not address this? So what relevance does this particular passage have to these other events? Perhaps it is another testament to Abraham’s love of humanity, that his primary focus in life was to respect people and make peace. This follows Abraham allowing his nephew Lot to pick which area he wanted to settle even though Abraham as the elder and surrogate parent had the right of first refusal. Let’s consider this an important lesson as we enter 5785 (Fifty seven eighty five). Let’s all pledge to follow our patriarch Abraham’s idea that we should first follow peace, diplomacy and understanding in working with others. Parashat Vayera 5785 / פָּרָשַׁת וַיֵּרָא 16 (dieciséis) de noviembre de 2024 (veinticuatro) / 15 (quince) de Jeshvan 5785 (cincuenta y siete ochenta y cinco) Parashat Vayera es la cuarta porción semanal de la Torá en el ciclo judío anual de lectura de la Torá. Porción de la Torá: Génesis 18:1-22:24 Vayera (“Él apareció”) comienza cuando los invitados le informan a Abraham que Sara dará a luz. A pesar de los intentos de Abraham de convencer a Dios de lo contrario, Dios destruye las ciudades de Sodoma y Gomorra. Sara da a luz a Isaac y Abraham despide a Agar e Ismael. Por orden de Dios, Abraham se prepara para sacrificar a Isaac, pero un ángel de Dios le dice a Abraham que ofrezca un carnero en su lugar. [1] Año trienal 3 1: 21:1-4 · 4 p'sukim 2: 21:5-13 · 9 p'sukim 3: 21:14-21 · 8 p'sukim 4: 21:22-34 · 13 p'sukim 5: 22:1-8 · 8 p'sukim 6: 22:9-19 · 11 p'sukim 7: 22:20-24 · 5 p'sukim maf: 22:20-24 · 5 p 'sukim Haftará para los ashkenazíes: 2 Reyes 4:1-37 · 37 p'sukim Comentario y Divrei Torá Sefaria OU Torah Jewish Theological Seminary American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: págs. 71 – 76 Año Trienal 3 (Kriyah completa págs. 63 – 76) Artscroll Chumash: págs. 94 – 105 Año Trienal 3 (Kriyah completa págs. 78 – 105) Etz Chaim Chumash: págs. 112 – 122 Año Trienal 3 ( Kriyah completo, págs. 99 - 122) Hay muchos eventos importantes en esta porción que preparan el escenario para lo que ahora llamamos judaísmo. Abraham demuestra su humanidad al abogar por Sodoma y Gomorra; nace Isaac, es circuncidado y destetado; y Abraham Ata a su hijo Isaac para prepararlo para su ofrenda, pero eso, por supuesto, no sucede. Hemos hablado de estos eventos muchas veces en el pasado. De hecho, como recordarán, nuestra porción trienal son las mismas lecturas que para el Dos días de Rosh Hashaná. Entre estos acontecimientos, leemos que Abraham hizo un pacto con Abimelec y Ficol, el rey y general de los filisteos. Los trabajadores se disputaban el uso y la propiedad de los pozos para beber y regar los cultivos. Aunque estos otros acontecimientos son trascendentales, no No todo está en la Torá, ¿y por qué no abordar esto? Entonces, ¿qué relevancia tiene este pasaje en particular para estos otros eventos? Tal vez sea otro testimonio del amor de Abraham por la humanidad, que su objetivo principal en la vida fuera respetar a las personas y hacer la paz. Esto sigue a Abraham permitiendo que su sobrino Lot eligiera en qué área quería establecerse, a pesar de que Abraham, como el mayor y padre sustituto, tenía el derecho de preferencia. Consideremos esto como una lección importante al entrar en el año 5785 (cincuenta y siete con ochenta y cinco). Compromiso de seguir la idea de nuestro patriarca Abraham de que debemos buscar primero la paz, la diplomacia y el entendimiento al trabajar con los demás.
- Rabbi Shmuel's newsletter for week of 3 November 2024
Calendar This is an overview of upcoming events. Details of each event are below Sunday, 3 November 2024- Daylight Savings Time ends Sunday, 3 November 2024-Religious School Wednesday, 6 November 2024-Torah Study Thursday, 7 November-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 8 & 9 November 2024-Shabbat Services Thursday, 14 November-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 15 & 16 November 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 17 November 2024-Religious School Wednesday, 20 November-Torah Study Thursday, 21 November-Judaic Studies Friday & Saturday, 22 & 23 November 2024-Shabbat Services Sunday, 24 November 2024-Religious School & Semi-Annual Congregation Meeting Thursday, 28 November 2024-Thanksgiving Friday, 29 November 2024- Native American Heritage Day Friday & Saturday, 29 & 30 November 2024-Shabbat Services We are now offering Zelle for payments and donations! Use this email: treasurer@templesholomofontario.org Please note what the payment is for. Thank you. From the Talmud (Commentary to Tractate Bava Batra, 118a, from Artscroll) : "Human thoughts can triggera variety of natual phenomena that can cascade and eventually lead to the destruction of physical bodies. Accordingly, when something successful engenders the amazement of people, its future is endangered. The ethical basis for ayin hara (evil eye) is explained by some as follows: The blessings bestowed byHashema upon an indiviuual ahould not seve as a source of anguish to others. If one allows his blessings (ie wealth, children) to cause pain to others less fortunateone arouses a divine judgment against himself and a reevaluation of their fitness for those blessings. This can lead to their subjection to the destructive forces of ayin hara . Announcements -Office Hours -This week’s 10-Minute -Events -Candle Lighting Times for Shabbat (Ontario, CA) -Shabbat Services -School *For your information, I have included below my schedule, including office hours for the next two weeks and specific classes in which I am involved. **For your convenience and information, Zoom links will be provided in separate emails for security purposes. ***I continue to update our Mi Sheberach מי שברך list for those in need of healing. For your convenience, I am attaching this revised list to this email that only goes to members of Temple Sholom of Ontario . Thank you. Going forward, I am planning on conducting Hebrew School from my office and making Sunday an office day when applicable to be more available. Sunday, 3 Novem ber , 2024 9:00am - 2:30pm (In Person Religious School 10:00am - 12:00pm ) Friday, 8 Novem ber 2024 10:00am - 7:30pm ( Shabbat Services @ 7:30pm ) Sunday, 10 Novem ber - Thursday, 14 November , 2024 Out of town on vacation Friday, 15 Novem ber 2024 10:00am - 7:30pm ( Shabbat Services @ 7:30pm ) Sunday, 17 Novem ber , 2024 9:00am - 2:30pm ( Religious School 10:00am - 11:30am ) Friday, 22 Novem ber 2024 10:00am - 7:30pm ( Shabbat Services @ 7:30pm ) Sunday, 24 Novem ber , 2024 9:00am - 3:30pm ( Religious School 10:00am - 11:30am & Semi-Annual Congregation Meeting ) (Subject to change. Please call for appointments) Parashat Lech-Lecha 5785 / פָּרָשַׁת לֶךְ־לְךָ 9 November 2024 / 8 Cheshvan 5785 10-Minute Torah on YouTube Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3 @ 2:00 AM Daylight saving time will end for the year at 2 a.m. local time on Sunday, Nov. 3, when we "fall back" and gain an extra hour of sleep. Next year, it will begin again on Sunday, March 9, 2025. Adult Torah Study Class Next Session: Wednesday, November 6 at 7:30 pm PT Zoom Links sent in separate email Wednesday morning. Please reply if you do not receive them. Parashat Lech-Lecha 5785 / פָּרָשַׁת לֶךְ־לְךָ 9 November 2024 / 8 Cheshvan 5785 10-Minute Torah on YouTube Parashat Lech-Lecha is the 3rd weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Genesis 12:1-17:27 Genesis Chapter Twelve, Verse One to Seventeen, Twenty-Seven Lech Lecha (“Go Forth”) recounts Abraham’s (here known as Abram) first encounter with God, his journey to Canaan, the birth of his son Ishmael, the covenant between him, his descendants, and God, and God’s commandment to circumcise the males of his household. [1] ] Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria OU Torah Jewish Theological Seminary American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 56 – 60 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 45 – 60) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 70 – 77 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 54 – 77) After our study of the Biblical book of Proverbs , we once again face the question, “What shall we study next?” Sandy and I have revised and updated our old list of possible topics, including some suggestions made to us by some of you. We will meet on Zoom next Thursday, November 7, at 7:30 PM (I’ll send a link closer to the time). Our agenda will be a discussion of the revised list of topics, and a vote to decide what we’ll do next. The revised list is attached . Actually, you’ll note that there are two attachments . One, called “What Next…" is a two-page document , which is in large type so you can print it out and read it. The other, called “Small What’s Next…,” is in small type, so that it’s all on one page . You can use this single-page list to “vote” or otherwise indicate to yourself which items interest you, with the entire list visible. Feel free to print out both of these, one of these, or none of these since we’ll put them on the screen in class. We look forward to seeing you next week, and to a stimulating discussion of all these interesting possibilities. Meanwhile, we wish you all Shabbat Shalom and Rosh Hodesh Sameach. Shabbat Times for Ontario, California, USA 🕯️ Candle lighting / הדלקת נרות Friday, November 8 ⋅ 4:36 pm ✨ Havdalah (50 min) / הבדלה - 50 דקות Saturday, November 9 ⋅ 5:29 pm Powered by Hebcal Shabbat Times Upcoming Services Erev Shabbat Ma'ariv Service Friday, November 8, 2024 @ 7:30 pm Shabbat Shacharit / שַׁבָּת Saturday, November 9, 2024 @ 9:30 am Shabbat Zoom Links sent in a separate email Friday afternoon. Please reply if you do not receive them. We are now incorporating guitar accompaniment with our Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv Parashat Lech-Lecha 5785 / פָּרָשַׁת לֶךְ־לְךָ 9 November 2024 / 8 Cheshvan 5785 Torah Portion Triennial year 3: Genesis 16:1-17:27 1: 16:1-6 · 6 p’sukim 2: 16:7-9 · 3 p’sukim 3: 16:10-16 · 7 p’sukim 4: 17:1-6 · 6 p’sukim 5: 17:7-17 · 11 p’sukim 6: 17:18-23 · 6 p’sukim 7: 17:24-27 · 4 p’sukim maf: 17:24-27 · 4 p’sukim Haftarah: Isaiah 40:27-41:16 · 21 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria OU Torah Jewish Theological Seminary American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 56 – 60 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 45 – 60) Hebrew School at Temple Sholom of Ontario Religious School is starting up again and kicks off with: In-Person Learning, Sunday, November 3 @ 10:00am - 12:00 noon We are going to be starting up our religious school in the next few weeks. We have delayed the start due to the High Holidays and felt that families would participate and bring the kids, which would be a lot like religious instruction. ith the end of the High Holidays we are back to a lighter, normal schedule. We are planning on a more consistent schedule. We will have our in-person learning on the first weekend of the month. The other 3 weeks will be on Zoom and consist of Hebrew instruction and Torah learning. We will also discuss the holidays as they come up and other topics, like prophets. Semi-Annual Congregation Meeting Sunday, 24 November 2024 @ 1pm https://goldendreidle.com/ We are conveniently located in Tustin, Orange County, across the street from the OC Kosher Market . The Golden Dreidle has the most extensive collection of Jewish Wedding Gifts, Groom's Mazel Tov Glasses, Tallits, Kiddush Cups, Jewish Wedding Mezuzahs, Chuppah .. * The titles in blue and underlined are "hyperlinks". If you click on any of those, it will lead to that site/URL. The hyperlink gives a descriptive title with the actual link embedded in that title. Anyone who is concerned about clicking a link or hyperlink can access any of these resources by going to my website, www.modernrabbistephen.com . You can find them in the "Blog" and "Videos" sections, as well as the "Instagram Links" by clicking on the various pictures.
- D'var Torah for Parashat Lech-Lecha 5785 פָּרָשַׁת לֶךְ־לְךָ 9 November 2024 / 8 Cheshvan 5785
Parashat Lech-Lecha 5785 / פָּרָשַׁת לֶךְ־לְךָ 9 November 2024 / 8 Cheshvan 5785 Nine November Twenty Twenty-Four / Eight Cheshvan Fifty-Seven Eighty-Five 10-Minute Torah on YouTube Parashat Lech-Lecha is the 3rd weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Torah Portion: Genesis 12:1-17:27 Genesis Chapter Twelve, Verse One to Seventeen, Twenty-Seven Lech Lecha (“Go Forth”) recounts Abraham’s (here known as Abram) first encounter with God, his journey to Canaan, the birth of his son Ishmael, the covenant between him, his descendants, and God, and God’s commandment to circumcise the males of his household. [1] Triennial year 3 1: 16:1-6 · 6 p’sukim 2: 16:7-9 · 3 p’sukim 3: 16:10-16 · 7 p’sukim 4: 17:1-6 · 6 p’sukim 5: 17:7-17 · 11 p’sukim 6: 17:18-23 · 6 p’sukim 7: 17:24-27 · 4 p’sukim maf: 17:24-27 · 4 p’sukim Haftarah: Isaiah 40:27-41:16 · 21 p’sukim Commentary and Divrei Torah Sefaria OU Torah Jewish Theological Seminary American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 56 – 60 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 45 – 60) Artscroll Chumash: pp. 70 – 77 Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. 54 – 77) Etz Chaim Chumash: pp. – Triennial Year 2 (Full Kriyah pp. – ) This portion is Le h Le h a , “Go for yourself”. This refers to Hashem directing Abraham to leave his native and start a journey. Consider that this also refers to a spiritual journey. While Abraham is leaving his homeland, a place with a lot of paganism, Abraham can now leave that behind and start a new concept of divine justice and the One, True G-d. Thus starts what we now know as Judaism. Our triennial portion focuses on the beginning of our heritage in two important ways. First of all, Sarah, who has been barren, will give birth to a son who will continue the lineage and heritage. Abram and Sarai will now be known as Abraham and Sarah. This comes with the new covenant of circumcision and is the beginning of giving new babies their Hebrew names on the eighth day of life during that event. Circumcision represents some important spiritual implications. It represents us opening our hearts to serving Hashem and removing any impurities. This symbolism is also the focus of some of the prayers during High Holidays of removing those same impediments that interfere with us looking honestly at ourselves and our weaknesses to be better people. Parashat Lech-Lecha 5785 / פָּרָשַׁת לֶךְ־לְךָ 9 de noviembre de 2024 / 8 de Jeshvan de 5785 Nueve de noviembre de Veinticuatro / Ocho de Jeshvan de Cincuenta y siete Ochenta y cinco Parashat Lech-Lecha es la tercera porción semanal de la Torá en el ciclo anual judío de lectura de la Torá. Porción de la Torá: Génesis 12:1-17:27 Génesis Capítulo Doce, Versículo Uno a Diecisiete, Veintisiete Lech Lecha (“Sal”) relata el primer encuentro de Abraham (aquí conocido como Abram) con Dios, su viaje a Canaán, el nacimiento de su hijo Ismael, el pacto entre él, sus descendientes y Dios, y el mandamiento de Dios de circuncidar a los varones de su casa. [1] Año trienal 3 1: 16:1-6 · 6 p’sukim 2: 16:7-9 · 3 p’sukim 3: 16:10-16 · 7 p’sukim 4: 17:1-6 · 6 p’sukim 5: 17:7-17 · 11 p’sukim 6: 17:18-23 · 6 p’sukim 7: 17:24-27 · 4 p’sukim maf: 17:24-27 · 4 p’sukim Haftará: Isaías 40:27-41:16 · 21 p’sukim Comentario y Divrei Torá Sefaria OU Torah Jewish Theological Seminary American Jewish University Hertz Chumash: pp. 56 – 60 Año Trienal 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 45 – 60) Artscroll Chumash: págs. 70 – 77 Año Trienal 2 (Kriyah completa págs. 54 – 77) Etz Chaim Chumash: págs. – Año Trienal 2 (Kriyah completa págs. – ) Esta porción es Leh Leha, “Ve por ti mismo”. Esto se refiere a Hashem ordenando a Abraham que abandone su tierra natal y comience un viaje. Considere que esto también se refiere a un viaje espiritual. Mientras Abraham deja su tierra natal, un lugar con mucho paganismo, Abraham ahora puede dejar eso atrás y comenzar un nuevo concepto de justicia divina y del Único y Verdadero Dios. Así comienza lo que ahora conocemos como Judaísmo. Nuestra porción trienal se centra en el comienzo de nuestra herencia de dos maneras importantes. En primer lugar, Sara, que ha sido estéril, dará a luz a un hijo que continuará el linaje y la herencia. Abram y Sarai serán ahora conocidos como Abraham y Sara. Esto viene con el nuevo pacto de la circuncisión y es el comienzo de darles a los bebés sus nombres hebreos al octavo día de vida durante ese evento.
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- Bar-bat-mitzvah | Lake Elsinore | ModernRabbiShmuel
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Top of Page Upcoming Events Shabbat Times Services New Blog Order My Book Videos My Story Subscribe Instagram Feed Upcoming Events Upcoming Events Erev Yom Kippur Fri, Oct 11 Temple Sholom of Ontario Oct 11, 2024, 5:40 PM – 8:00 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA Oct 11, 2024, 5:40 PM – 8:00 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA The evening service of Yom Kippur is named after this declaration RSVP Yom Kippur (on Shabbat) / יוֹם כִּפּוּר (בְּשַׁבָּת) Shacharit Sat, Oct 12 Temple Sholom of Ontario Oct 12, 2024, 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA Oct 12, 2024, 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA Day of Atonement ✡️ Yom Kippur for Hebrew Year 5785 begins at sundown on Friday, 11 October 2024 and ends at nightfall on Saturday, 12 October 2024. RSVP Yom Kippur (Mincha) / יוֹם כִּפּוּר מִנחָה Sat, Oct 12 Temple Sholom of Ontario Oct 12, 2024, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA Oct 12, 2024, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA Yom Kippur for Hebrew Year 5785 begins at sundown on Friday, 11 October 2024 and ends at nightfall on Saturday, 12 October 2024. RSVP Multiple Dates Sukkot 2024 / סוּכּוֹת 5785 Shacharit Thu, Oct 17 Temple Sholom of Ontario Oct 17, 2024, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA Oct 17, 2024, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA Feast of Booths 🌿🍋 Sukkot for Hebrew Year 5785 begins at sundown on Wednesday, 16 October 2024 and ends at nightfall on Wednesday, 23 October 2024. RSVP Shmini Atzeret 2024 / שְׁמִינִי עֲצֶרֶת 5785 Thu, Oct 24 Temple Sholom of Ontario Oct 24, 2024, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA Oct 24, 2024, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA Eighth Day of Assembly ✡️ Shmini Atzeret for Hebrew Year 5785 begins at sundown on Wednesday, 23 October 2024 and ends at nightfall on Thursday, 24 October 2024. RSVP Erev Simchat Torah / עֶרֶב שִׂמְחַת תּוֹרָה Thu, Oct 24 Temple Sholom of Ontario Oct 24, 2024, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA Oct 24, 2024, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA Day of Celebrating the Torah ✡️ Simchat Torah for Hebrew Year 5785 begins at sundown on Thursday, 24 October 2024 and ends at nightfall on Friday, 25 October 2024. RSVP Simchat Torah / שִׂמְחַת תּוֹרָה Fri, Oct 25 Temple Sholom of Ontario Oct 25, 2024, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA Oct 25, 2024, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM PDT Temple Sholom of Ontario, 963 W 6th St, Ontario, CA 91762, USA Simchat Torah for Hebrew Year 5785 begins at sundown on Thursday, 24 October 2024 and ends at nightfall on Friday, 25 October 2024. RSVP New Blog NewBlog Rabbi Stephen Epstein 2 days ago 5 min Rabbi Shmuel's newsletter for week of 6 October 2024 0 0 comments 0 Post not marked as liked Rabbi Stephen Epstein Sep 30 5 min D'var Torah for Parashat Yom Kippur 5785 יוֹם כִּפּוּר (Saturday, 12 October 2024 / 10 Tishrei 5785) 1 0 comments 0 Post not marked as liked Rabbi Stephen Epstein Sep 30 5 min D'var Torah for Rosh Hashana 2024 רֹאשׁ הַשָּׁנָה (Thursday, 3 October to Friday, 4 October 2024) 0 0 comments 0 Post not marked as liked Rabbi Stephen Epstein Sep 29 9 min Rabbi Shmuel's newsletter for week of 29 September 2024 0 0 comments 0 Post not marked as liked Rabbi Stephen Epstein Sep 26 4 min D'var Torah for Parashat Ha’azinu 5785 פָּרָשַׁת הַאֲזִינוּ (5 October 2024 / 3 Tishrei 5785) 0 0 comments 0 Post not marked as liked Rabbi Stephen Epstein Sep 22 8 min Rabbi Shmuel's newsletter for week of 22 September 2024 0 0 comments 0 Post not marked as liked My Story LEARN ABOUT MY STORY Leading Our Community in Worship Get In Touch Ever since I was young, I discovered my strong faith in HaShem and the desire to pursue a life of service to others. As the most esteemed Rabbi in the southwest Riverside County area of Southern California, my religious service offerings were designed to suit everyone’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a certified Rabbi to officiate your next event, or simply want to gain more wisdom and learn about the Divine — I’m your number one source for all your religious needs. Call me today and see what I can do for you. Instagram Feed Instagram Feed Services Services Offered Rabbi Stephen S. Epstein A Modern Conservative Rabb i Baby Naming Bar & Bat Mitzvot Spiritual Counseling Individualized Torah Study Funerals & Memorials Conversions Weddings Videos All Videos All Categories Play Video Play Video 09:00 Rabbi Stephen Epstein Sermon (10/4/24) Sermon about the two columns of Ha'azinu, strengthening our resolve for the New Year, 5785 Play Video Play Video 11:14 Rabbi Stephen Epstein Parashat Yom Kippur 5785 Afflicting ourselves; two goats; Expiation for two or three?; Ram's horn. Play Video Play Video 11:11 Rabbi Stephen Epstein Parashat Ha azinu 5785 Why be Jewish? (Hint: Lots of reasons); Lots of rituals too; Where's the spirituality? Welcome 5785. Play Video Play Video 15:04 Rabbi Stephen Epstein Sermon for Shabbat Ma ariv (9/20/24) Sermon for Friday Night Shabbat Ma'ariv Service on 20 September 2024 Play Video Play Video 59:57 Rabbi Stephen Epstein Rashbi Torah Study: Parashat Ki Tavo 5784 Discussion, analysis and inquiry into this week's Torah portion, read on upcoming Shabbat. Play Video Play Video 11:17 Rabbi Stephen Epstein Parashat Nitzavim Vayeilech 5784 (28 September 2024) Who's Jewish?; Inspired by those who choose Judaism; Not that hard? Load More Videos Order My Book Subscribe Subscribe Stay up to date Submit Shabbat Times
- Background/resume | Modernrabbishmuel | Lake Elsinore
Background RABBI August 2020 - Present Rabbi Temple Sholom of Ontario , Ontario, CA Serving as the religious leader of this Conservative synagogue affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. The beginning of my practice was during the COVID epidemic. I continue to lead my congregation in the midst of the worst anitsemitism since the Holocaust. I led services mostly via Zoom. As the membership had shrunk over the years, I worked to ke ep the synagogue engaged w ith activities and growing. I organized and teach weekly Hebrew school on Sundays via Zoom with an in-person class of activities one Sunday each month. I conduct B’nai Mitzvot training and now conduct live services each Shabbat. I have conducted the Miller Course , Introduction to Judaism once or twice a year, and arrange conversion ceremonies with the local Rabbinical Assembly members at the American Jewish University in Los Angeles. I have participated in events with other local synagogues and am active in community outreach, giving invocations at various local government functions. In conducting live services, I read directly from Torah and usually chant the Haftorah. I also officiate at wedding ceremonies, many of which were "mixed" and interfaith, and funerals for both congregants and non-congregants. This past High Holidays, I also served as cantor for Rosh Hashannah and Yom Kippur using the appropriate nusach. Ordained Rabbi Independent Congregation/"Shteibel" Lake Elsinore, CA September 2019 – August 2020 Leading independent, non-affiliated Conservative congregation. Conducting High Holiday and Shabbat services. Serving the community conducting Life Events for affiliated and non-affiliated, traditional and inter-faith couples. Ordained Rabbi Congregation B’nai Chaim Murrieta, CA July, 2017 – August, 2019 Lay Rabbi/Religious Leader Congregation B’nai Chaim Murrieta, CA July, 2014 – June, 2017 Conducting regular Friday night and Saturday morning services for Conservative Congregation. Services are accompanied by my guitar playing which has lead to other congregants accompanying me playing violin and guitar as well. I officiate Family Services once a month in which our students from our school lead the service. Leading High Holiday services chanting appropriate nusach. Conduct holiday services that fall on New Moon and other holidays. Able to read directly from Torah scroll. Familiarity with both Torah and Haftorah cantillations. Trained four adults in Hebrew and Torah chanting for first all-adult B’nai Mitzvot conducted for Saturday Shabbat Mincha-Ma’ariv. Have trained numerous B’nai Mitzvot for both traditional Haftorah and Maftir Torah. Taught Hebrew and Prayers & Torah Classes for Adults. Currently teaching Hebrew school class for B’nai Mitzvot students. Have organized many events for synagogue including NJOP’s Shabbat Across America 2019 with Rebbetzin. Active in fund raising for the synagogue. Since I became rabbi two years ago, membership has more than doubled. -Continuously studying Artscroll (Orthodox) and Soncino (Conservative) Chumashes. -Studying Talmud for 15 years as part of “Daf Yomi” program using the Artscroll Talmud Series -Studied Kabbalah reading Zohar edited by David Matt -Consistently pray all three services daily including tefillin during secular mornings. PART OF "BEIT DIN"/RABBINICAL TEAM September 2007 – June 2012 Canyon Lake, CA Co-lead lay congregation for "Conservadox" congregation. Participated in leading Shabbat and High Holiday services, including reading Torah and Haftorah. Also conducted periodic Sunday morning themed Talmud studies on various topics such as the Role of Women in Judaism and Astrology. CONGREGATION MEMBER J une 1999 - June 2007 Murrieta, CA Served on board for seven years including President of the congregation for two years. Also assisted rabbi’s in conducting services and substituting during their absences. Conducted Torah study for adults. Instituted and led once-a-month Shabbat Shachrit junior congregation. PSYCHIATRIC TECHNICIAN February, 1986 -December, 1991 Served on Nursing staff of psychiatric facility. Individual and group counseling activities; assistant charge nurse. Worked with variety of demographics: adolescent behavior and chemical dependency; adult chemical dependency; eating disorders; personality disorders including multiple personality disorders; psychotic and delusional disorders. EDUCATION Rabbinical Ordination, Rabbinical Seminary International, New York, NY June 2017 MBA, Business Management University of Redlands, Redlands, CA BA, Psychology State University of New York, College at Oswego AS, Psychiatric Technology Saddleback Community College, Mission Viejo, CA
Forum Posts (18)
- Torah, Tanakh, ChumashIn General Discussions·April 12, 2021A follow up from yesterday's class: This morning, it struck me that the Torah, in a written book format, is called a Chumash. The scroll is a Sefer Torah. Yet, the Tanakh acronym includes "Torah." So, since the Tanakh is not a scroll, I'm curious as to why it's Tanakh, instead of something like "Chnakh" ( or whatever the proper grammatical convention would dictate). Any insight would be appreciated!1210
- Conversion question: acceptable activities?In General Discussions·September 2, 2021When seeking conversion what is and is not acceptable? I know some say that non-Jews cannot fully participate in Shabbat, while others are less stringent. How would this apply to Sukkot or other observances? Speaking for myself, there is the desire to act, but on the other hand, there is a hesitancy for fear of doing something prohibited or "pretending" to be someone you are not by virtue of being a non-Jew doing "Jewish things." Due to a variety of viewpoints/approaches on this matter, I'm looking for clarification.025
- Torah, Tanakh, ChumashIn General DiscussionsApril 12, 2021Ok. That makes sense. Thank you!10