Is there a difference in saying a Prayer (Tefilla) or saying a Psalm (Tehillim)? Visiting Rabbi Avrohom Chaim Feuer, Rabbi of Congregation Bais Avrohom in Monsey, NY, teacher, lecturer at Ohr Somayach, and translator for ArtScroll Books, spoke on the topic of Psalms: “King David, the Sweet Singer of Israel.”

The rabbi relayed that before the two World Wars many small town Jews were not educated, particularly the women, and it was Tehillim that was the basis of their Jewish education. Moreover, it was common for congregations in many parts of the world to have the word Tehillim in its name. Unlike today, in our

Dear Readers,

In this issue we have what I assume is the first home-grown crossword puzzle in the BJI newsletter. I’m quite proud to print it; I never knew that crossword puzzles grew on homes.

Amram Phelps has also graciously agreed to write a monthly column on Kashrut, and we have the assorted goodies about our communal goings-on.

I would like to again reiterate my call for articles. Whether it be a d’var torah,

a community announcement, a poem, or an opinion piece about Israel, your contribution is welcome.

Please send articles to
bjinewsletter@hotmail.com by the 16th of the month, Thank you.  —The Editor’s Desk

The Power of Prayer

Upcoming Special
Events

· Purim is the night of March 20th into the 21st

· Don’t forget to turn your clock back March 8th!

· Mark your calendars for next month: Pesach begins April 20th!

Kashrut Korner

2

Condolences

2

Crossword Puzzle

3

Beth Jacob Women

6

Tykes!

6

Divrei Torah

10

Upcoming Events

12

An Editor’s Note

A traditional family synagogue

Beth Jacob of Irvine Newsletter

March  2008 | Adar I - Adar II 5758

Volume 2, Issue 3

Rabbi Feuer (speaking), and with Rabbi Ari Lindner.